Preventing, Removing Or Handling Atmospheric Condensate Patents (Class 62/150)
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Publication number: 20120125027Abstract: An evaporative pre-cooling system for increasing the efficiency of a residential air conditioner condensing unit utilizing a wet medium in contact with low velocity moving air allowing evaporation to occur across the wet medium thereby reducing the associated dry bulb air temperature of the air moving across the wet pad as the air absorbs moisture. In the present invention, the embodiment of the pre-cooling apparatus encapsulates the condensing unit with a wet cellulose media, water not absorbed during the evaporation cycle is recycled, and water generated by the evaporator coil is discharged into the sump to further reduce tap water consumption. In the embodiment of the present invention, the wet pre-cool mode is thermostatically in parallel with the electrical circuit energizing the pre-cooler system in tandem with the air conditioning compressor motor.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2010Publication date: May 24, 2012Inventor: James Derrick Echols
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Publication number: 20120085112Abstract: A heat pump system for conditioning air supplied to a space is provided. The system includes a pre-processing module that pre-conditions supply air. A supply air heat exchanger is in flow communication with the pre-processing module. The supply air heat exchanger receives air from the pre-processing module and at least one of heats or cools the air from the pre-processing module. A processing module is in flow communication with the supply air heat exchanger. The processing module receiving and conditioning air from the supply air heat exchanger. A regeneration air heat exchanger is provided to at least one of heat or cool regeneration air. The regeneration air heat exchanger and the supply air heat exchanger are fluidly coupled by a refrigerant system.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2011Publication date: April 12, 2012Applicant: VENMAR CES, INC.Inventor: David Martin Wintemute
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Patent number: 8151580Abstract: A fluid-sensing switch system that can monitor pre-established threshold fluid levels in the primary drain pan inside an air conditioning unit or other condensate-producing unit, and also in a secondary drain pan positioned under the unit, providing redundant safety response capability. Once the threaded plug of a sensing probe is connected to the unit's weep hole, it positions a center sensor extending through a false-trigger-reducing resilient piece in a position to wait for rising fluid capable of breaching a weep hole dam. The center sensor provides a first power potential, while a circular sensor also present provides the second power potential needed for signal generation. A signal-generating member connected to both sensors is electrically connected to the unit to shut it off, and/or activate a pump that removes fluid from the secondary drain pan. When mounted on a secondary drain pan, the signal-generating member provides the redundant safety response capability.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2008Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Inventor: Christopher Ralph Cantolino
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Patent number: 8136368Abstract: A modular evaporator which can be assembled from a number of standard modules is provided. Depending on the requirements, the modular evaporator can be assembled to meet a wide range of design cooling loads. Additionally, the modular evaporator is capable of generating and holding ice for thermal storage purposes, eliminating the need for external ice storage tanks. Furthermore, the heat transfer and thermal storage fluid for the evaporator can simply be water which considerably simplifies the system, lowers the cost, and increases the efficiency of the heat transfer loop.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2011Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Inventors: Daniel Reich, Michael Paul Burdett, Vladimir D. Reich
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Patent number: 8136363Abstract: A method of conditioning air in a vehicle load space. The method includes providing a refrigeration circuit including an evaporator, directing refrigerant through the refrigeration circuit, directing load space air across the evaporator, sensing a first condition based on one of a temperature and a pressure of the refrigerant in the refrigeration circuit upstream from the evaporator, determining a second condition based on one of a temperature and a pressure of the refrigerant in the evaporator, determining a difference between the first condition and the second condition, and initiating a defrost process of the evaporator when the difference is greater than a threshold.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2006Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: Thermo King CorporationInventor: Brad Ludwig
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Publication number: 20120060531Abstract: Disclosed is a system to extract water moisture from the atmosphere, highly purify and condition the extracted water, and provide beverages for human consumption. In one embodiment, the device collects water-vapor condensation from filtered intake air, and then subjects the condensate to a series of purification filters and to a sterilization process in order to produce drinking water. The system may then use the water produced to provide carbonated drinks, flavored drinks, coffee drinks, or ice. The system may also play music and charge a portable electronic device. The disclosed system may incorporate the variations in different combinations.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 4, 2011Publication date: March 15, 2012Applicant: ECOLOBLUE, INC.Inventors: Wayne Ferreira, Henri-James Tieleman
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Publication number: 20120060532Abstract: A heating dedicated air conditioner includes a compression mechanism, an indoor heat exchanger, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion mechanism provided between one end of the indoor heat exchanger and one end of the outdoor heat exchanger, a four-way switching valve switchable between first and second states of connection between the compressor and the heat exchangers, a fan ventilating the indoor heat exchanger, and a control unit controlling at least the compressor, the expansion mechanism, the four-way switching valve, and the fan. The control unit switches the four-way switching valve to the second state in a test operation mode, which includes a drain water inhibited interval during which drain water inhibition control is performed. The control unit operates the compressor and stops the fan when the drain water inhibition control is performed.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 26, 2010Publication date: March 15, 2012Applicant: DAIKIN INDUSTRIES, LTD.Inventors: Junichi Shimoda, Hidehiko Kinoshita
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Publication number: 20120047919Abstract: A refrigerated appliance such as a refrigerator receives a demand response signal indicating a peak demand period and operates the refrigerator in an energy savings mode by disabling an anti-sweat heater. Sensors monitor ambient temperature and humidity, and the dry bulb temperature of a preselected region where incipient moisture would likely form. Data from the sensors is sent to a controller which calculates ambient dew point and compares the dry bulb temperature of the preselected region with the calculated dew point to enable the anti-sweat heater during the peak demand period and prevent incipient formation of moisture.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 27, 2010Publication date: March 1, 2012Inventor: John K. Besore
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Publication number: 20120047928Abstract: An air conditioning control apparatus mounted on an electric vehicle having a travel battery that supplies an electric power to a travel driving source, a battery charger that charges the travel battery with a power supply, and an air conditioner that conducts air conditioning in a vehicle interior, controls the air conditioner. When pre-air conditioning is implemented in a state where the battery charger is connected to the power supply, an inrush current generated in a short time when an operation of the air conditioner starts is absorbed by both of power feeding from the power supply and power feeding from the travel battery, and after the inrush current has been absorbed, the air conditioner operates by only the power feeding from the power supply.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2011Publication date: March 1, 2012Inventor: Hiroki FUKATSU
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Publication number: 20120053736Abstract: A control system to selectively control the operation of the compressor of an air conditioning system including at least one remote evaporator operatively coupled to the compressor to receive refrigerant therethrough, an air handler control system including a fault sensor to monitor the operation of the remote evaporator and to selectively generate a fault signal, and logic or circuitry to receive the fault signal from the fault sensor and to generate a fault control signal fed to the compressor to turn-off the compressor when a predetermined operating condition exists at the remote evaporator and a condensate drain pan to collect condensate from the remote evaporator, the control system comprising a condensate sensor disposed to sense condensate in the condensate drain pan at a predetermined level and to generate a condensate level signal fed to a control device coupled between the condensate sensor and the fault sensor of the air handler control system including logic or circuitry to generate a condensate lType: ApplicationFiled: January 25, 2011Publication date: March 1, 2012Inventors: Christopher Cantolino, Mark Oudshoorn, Robert Dean Sells
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Publication number: 20120047927Abstract: A control system to selectively control the operation of the compressor of a mini-split air conditioning system including at least one remote evaporator operatively coupled to the compressor to receive refrigerant therethrough, a sensor to monitor the operation of the evaporator and to generate an operating control signal to turn-off the compressor when a predetermined operating condition is sensed at the evaporator and a condensate drain pan to receive or catch condensate from the evaporator, the control system comprising a condensate sensor disposed to sense condensate in the condensate drain pan at a predetermined level and to generate a condensate level signal fed to a battery powered control device including an isolated solid state relay coupled to the sensor by a control coupling device to generate a condensate level control signal fed to the sensor causing the sensor to generate the operating control signal fed to turn off the compressor when condensate within the condensate drain pan reaches the predeType: ApplicationFiled: August 25, 2010Publication date: March 1, 2012Inventors: Christopher Cantolino, Mark Oudshoorn, Robert Dean Sells
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Publication number: 20120042666Abstract: An appliance such as a refrigerator receives a demand response signal indicating a peak demand period and operates the refrigerator in an energy savings mode by disabling an anti-sweat heater. A sensor on an external surface of the refrigerator enables the anti-sweat heater during the peak demand period if moisture is detected by the sensor. A preselected location can be defined where incipient moisture would form such as reducing the amount of insulation in this location. By forming a depression in the location and using an impedance-type sensor, moisture can be easily detected. The sensor signal is sent to the controller which then activates the anti-sweat heater to remove the moisture.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 19, 2010Publication date: February 23, 2012Inventor: John K. Besore
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Patent number: 8097073Abstract: A dehumidifier is provided. The dehumidifier includes a base, a barrier installed on the base to divide front and rear portions of the base, a drain pan formed on an upper portion of the barrier to collect condensed water and provided with a water collecting hole through which the condensed water is discharged, a drain hose connected to the water collecting hole to discharge the condensed water, and a hose fixing unit formed on the barrier to fix the drain hose.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2006Date of Patent: January 17, 2012Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Won-Suk Jang, Chi-Wan Kim
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Patent number: 8082744Abstract: Disclosed is a method for controlling a hot water circulation system associated with a heat pump. The present invention gives a freezing burst prevention operation function to a water-refrigerant heat-exchanger which performs heat exchange between a refrigerant and water, making it possible to remove a phenomenon that the water-refrigerant heat-exchanger installed out of the space where a user lives is frozen to be damaged.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2008Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Jin Ha Hwang, Jung Il Park
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Patent number: 8075652Abstract: A split type potable water extractor from ambient air and water dispenser is invented, comprising separate water generating block located outside a water use area and water dispensing block located inside a water use area. The water generator block cycles refrigerant through a condenser and an evaporator to create condensation by heat exchange with ambient air circulated by an intake airflow system. The condensate water is collected and purified in a cascade of bactericidal loop to remove impurities. The purified water is pumped to a dispensing apparatus which can be installed in the home or other area of water use separate from the water generating block. If any one of the functional parts or units of water generator is disabled the water generator immediately stops operating to deliver water to the tank of the dispensing apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2009Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Assignee: Ser-Manukyan Family HoldingsInventor: Zohrab Melikyan
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Patent number: 8069677Abstract: Liquefied natural gas is regasified to form natural gas, including circulation of an intermediate fluid between a vaporizer and an ambient air heater, where the intermediate fluid is warmed by exchanging heat with the ambient air as the intermediate fluid passes through the ambient air heater, and the intermediate fluid is cooled by exchanging heat with LNG as the intermediate fluid passes through the vaporizer. The ambient air heater is subjected to a defrosting cycle by intermittently regulating the temperature of the intermediate fluid fed to the ambient air heater to a temperature greater than zero degrees Celsius using a source of supplemental heat.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2007Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: Woodside Energy Ltd.Inventor: Solomon Aladja Faka
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Publication number: 20110283724Abstract: A refrigerator includes a freezing compartment and a door for selectively opening or closing at least a part of the freezing compartment The door includes a foam insulating layer and a sidewall contacting the foam insulating layer. A heater is installed correlative with the sidewall to supply heat to the sidewall.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 8, 2009Publication date: November 24, 2011Applicant: BSH BOSCH UND SIEMENS HAUSGERĂ„TE GMBHInventors: Yufa Bai, Liang Gao, Songtao Lu, Qiwu Zhu
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Publication number: 20110232309Abstract: A refrigerating appliance comprising a storage compartment, a refrigerant circuit which serves to cool the storage compartment and contains a compressor, and comprising a collecting receptacle for condensed water flowing out of the storage compartment. The collecting receptacle can be heated by a heating device that can be independently operated by the operation of the compressor.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2011Publication date: September 29, 2011Applicant: BSH BOSCH UND SIEMENS HAUSGERĂ„TE GMBHInventors: Helmut Konopa, Wolfgang Nuiding
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Patent number: 8020392Abstract: A refrigerating appliance comprising a storage compartment, a refrigerant circuit which serves to cool the storage compartment and contains a compressor, and comprising a collecting receptacle for condensed water flowing out of the storage compartment. The collecting receptacle can be heated by a heating device that can be independently operated by the operation of the compressor.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2005Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbHInventors: Helmut Konopa, Wolfgang Nuiding
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Patent number: 8020394Abstract: Disclosed here is an air conditioner and the control method thereof comprising an outdoor unit having an outdoor heat exchanger for the heat exchanging of the outdoor air and refrigerant; at least one indoor unit corresponding to the outdoor unit and having indoor heat exchanger for the heat exchanging of the room air and refrigerant; an expansion valve installed on the refrigerant pipe connecting the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger, and expanding the refrigerant; and a control device controlling the opening speed of the expansion valve in accordance with the operation modes of the indoor unit.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2007Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Jong Ho Hong, Nam Soo Lee, Shin Jeong Kang, Gyu Sang Choe
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Publication number: 20110154837Abstract: A refrigerant system incorporates a hot gas reheat circuit. The hot gas reheat circuit includes a reheat valve for selectively tapping at least a portion of refrigerant from a location downstream of a compressor and upstream of a condenser, and through a reheat heat exchanger. At least one refrigerant flow control device controls the amount of refrigerant passing through the reheat heat exchanger. A control for the refrigerant system is operable to receive inputs from an indoor environment, and to control the amount of refrigerant passing through the reheat heat exchanger to achieve desired temperature and humidity in the conditioned environment.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 2, 2009Publication date: June 30, 2011Inventor: Michael F. Taras
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Patent number: 7966836Abstract: One aspect of the present invention includes a cooling storage cabinet having a compressor that is included in a freezing device, a heater that is connected in parallel with the compressor to a power source, a switch that controls supply of current to the compressor, and a control unit that stops supply of current to the heater during a predetermined time after the switch operates start-up of the compressor.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2007Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Hoshizaki Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Seiki Hosaka
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Patent number: 7958740Abstract: A vehicle air-conditioner provided with an inside air-conditioning unit introducing at least one of inside air and outside air, adjusting the state of the introduced air, and blowing it out into the vehicle compartment, where an air-conditioning electronic control device judges if window glass is liable to fog up based on a window glass surface relative humidity near the window glass in the compartment (degree of ease of fogging). When it is judged that the window glass is liable to fog up, the inside air-conditioning unit is controlled to prevent the window glass from fogging up in defrost control, while when it is judged that the window glass is resistant to fogging, the inside air-conditioning unit is controlled to introduce at least inside air into the compartment.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2006Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Shinichiro Hirai, Takuya Kataoka
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Publication number: 20110088416Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring an HVAC system. The apparatus comprises a freeze-up sensor, a vacuum sensor, and a thermostat. The freeze-up sensor communicates a signal to indicate that ice is developing in the HVAC system and the vacuum sensor communicates a signal to indicate that a vacuum pressure exists in the HVAC system. When a signal is detected, the apparatus deactivates the HVAC system to prevent damage. The thermostat comprises a touch-screen display with a continuous set-point.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2010Publication date: April 21, 2011Applicant: CoreRed, LLCInventor: Cornelius Z. Koethler
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Patent number: 7927406Abstract: The water droplet generating system includes a vessel, an opening/closing valve, a moisture absorbent member, and a condenser portion. The vessel has an opening portion. The opening/closing valve opens and closes the opening portion. The water absorbent member absorbs and releases water vapor depending on a change of humidity. The condenser portion is communicated with the inside of the vessel and cools water vapor released from the moisture absorbent member to be at a dew point of water vapor or less. When the opening portion is opened, the moisture absorbent member absorbs water vapor in atmosphere. When the opening portion is closed, the moisture absorbent member releases water vapor, and the condenser portion condenses water vapor, which is released from the moisture absorbent member, to generate a water droplet.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2008Date of Patent: April 19, 2011Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Yukihisa Takeuchi
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Publication number: 20110083453Abstract: A system for producing potable water from atmosphere includes an enclosure with at least one intake port and exhaust port. The system includes a plurality of panels arranged within the enclosure substantially parallel to each other along a central axis. Each of the panels is made of a material on which water condensate from the atmosphere forms in response to a temperature differential between the material and the atmosphere passed through the enclosure. The system includes a plurality of conduits arranged to pass through the panels. A cooling fluid is passed through the conduits to cool the panels. The amount of water condensate formed on surfaces of the panels in response to cooling is detected. The panels are rotated about the central axis within the enclosure to remove the water condensate from the surfaces of the panels when the detected amount of water condensate exceeds a predetermined threshold.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 5, 2010Publication date: April 14, 2011Inventor: Diego Luis Filipe Bernardo Castanon Seoane
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Patent number: 7913499Abstract: A heat exchanger having a plurality of heat exchanging aluminum fins with hydrophilic condensing surfaces which are stacked and clamped between two cold plates. The cold plates are aligned radially along a plane extending through the axis of a cylindrical duct and hold the stacked and clamped portions of the heat exchanging fins along the axis of the cylindrical duct. The fins extend outwardly from the clamped portions along approximately radial planes. The spacing between fins is symmetric about the cold plates, and are somewhat more closely spaced as the angle they make with the cold plates approaches 90°. Passageways extend through the fins between vertex spaces which provide capillary storage and communicate with passageways formed in the stacked and clamped portions of the fins, which communicate with water drains connected to a pump externally to the duct. Water with no entrained air is drawn from the capillary spaces.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2008Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Assignee: Orbital Technologies CorporationInventors: Christopher M. Thomas, Yonghui Ma, Andrew North, Mark M. Weislogel
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Patent number: 7908876Abstract: A refrigerator and a method to control the same are provided. The refrigerator includes a body having a supercooling compartment, a cooling unit to provide cool air to the supercooling compartment, an electromagnetic radiation sensor to detect electromagnetic radiation emitted when a food placed in the supercooling compartment begins to freeze, an energy supply to apply energy to the food placed in the supercooling compartment to prevent freezing of the food, and a controller to receive a detection signal from the electromagnetic radiation and then to activate the energy supply. Electromagnetic radiation emitted from each beverage in a supercooled state when the beverage begins to freeze is detected and energy is applied to the beverage according to the detection.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2008Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Young Shik Shin, Vladimir Urazaev, Jin Ha Jeong, Jung Soo Lim, Bong Su Son
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Patent number: 7905101Abstract: A method of operating a refrigerated merchandiser. The refrigerated merchandiser includes a case that defines a product display area, and at least one door that provides access to the product display area. The method includes sensing a parameter of an ambient environment adjacent the case, delivering a signal indicative of the sensed parameter to a controller, and determining a duty cycle using the controller based on the signal indicative of the sensed parameter. The method also includes detecting a change in the sensed parameter using the controller, interrupting the duty cycle by initiating a clearing interval using the controller in response to the controller receiving the signal indicative of the change in the sensed parameter, and clearing condensation from the door during the clearing interval.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2007Date of Patent: March 15, 2011Assignee: Hussmann CorporationInventors: Ted Wayne Sunderland, Craig Steven Reichert, Dennis L. Dickerson
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Patent number: 7900464Abstract: A humidity detecting apparatus includes a humidity sensor for detecting a relative humidity of air on an inner side of a window glass, an air temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of the air, a glass temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of the window glass, and a glass surface relative humidity calculation unit for calculating a glass surface relative humidity based on output values of the humidity sensor, the air temperature sensor and the glass temperature sensor. A heat conductive member is disposed between the glass temperature sensor and the window glass.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2007Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Shinji Aoki, Shinichirou Hirai, Takuya Kataoka, Yoshiaki Suzuki
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Publication number: 20110048039Abstract: A system of managing water production in a vehicle. The system comprises a water conducting element set to receive and conduct water generated as a product of an operation of a vehicle air conditioner of the vehicle to a water container, a gauge that measures the amount of water in the water container, and a manager that receives the measurement and instructs the operation accordingly.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 13, 2010Publication date: March 3, 2011Applicant: Water-Gen Ltd.Inventors: Arye Kohavi, Avi Peretz
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Patent number: 7895849Abstract: A dehumidifier with multistage draining has a container that collects and stores condensed water from a dehumidifying assembly, a float mounted in the container, a float actuator connected to the float and a drain motor connected to the float actuator and an attachment actuator having a switch. When an external pipe is connected to the attachment connector to switch on the switch and the condensed water in the container gradually raises the float to switch on the float actuator, the drain motor is switched on to pump the condensed water out of the container. The dehumidifier automatically drains condensed water in the container according to the quantity of the condensed water, does not have to be cleared frequently and is convenient.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2008Date of Patent: March 1, 2011Assignee: New Widetech Industries Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ming-Tsung Chiu
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Patent number: 7895850Abstract: A method of operating a reversible heat pump system includes steps of sensing an outdoor air temperature with a first sensor and sensing at least one condition of an outdoor heat exchanger coil with a second sensor. Input from the first and second sensors is then electronically analyzed to predict when frosting may occur on an outdoor heat exchanger coil. A proportioning reversing valve is modulated in response to this analysis in order to direct a controlled proportional backpressure flow of pressurized refrigerant from a pressure side of a compressor into the outdoor heat exchanger coil while pressurized refrigerant is continued to be supplied to an indoor heat exchanger coil. As a result, the pressure and temperature of refrigerant within the outdoor heat exchanger coil is raised to at least an extent necessary to prevent frosting on the outdoor heat exchanger coil. The steps are preferably performed continuously in a feedback control loop during operation of the reversible heat pump system as a heat pump.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2006Date of Patent: March 1, 2011Assignee: Comforture, L.P.Inventor: William J. Kitsch
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Publication number: 20110011107Abstract: A device (10) for reclaiming water from moist air discharged from a cooling tower (14). The device (10) includes a heat exchanger (16) including an air flow path (18) extending between an air inlet port (20) and an air outlet port (22), and a water flow path (24) extending between a water inlet port (26) and a water outlet port (28). The heat exchanger (16) is configured for, in use, mounting the air inlet port (20) at least partially in a flow path of air discharged from the cooling tower (14) to generate a flow of moist air through the heat exchanger (16) along the air flow path (18). The heat exchanger (16) fluidly connects the water inlet port (26) to the water cooled in the cooling tower (14), and fluidly connects the water outlet port (28) to the water cooled in the cooling tower (14).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2009Publication date: January 20, 2011Applicant: Creative Water Technology Ltd.Inventor: Stephen Shelley
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Publication number: 20110005247Abstract: The invention relates to a system for the prevention of icing in a conduit, as can occur, for example, in an aircraft's air conditioning system. The system according to the invention comprises at least one sensor for acquiring mechanical oscillations of the conduits, an electronic evaluation unit and an electronic control unit, wherein the at least one sensor is connected to the electronic evaluation unit, the evaluation unit comprises characteristics relating to the oscillation behaviour of the conduit and is equipped to compare the measured conduit oscillations with the characteristics, and by means of correlation to interpret them as conduit icing, and in the case of conduit icing to emit a signal to the control unit. If the operation-associated oscillations of the conduit to be monitored are inadequate, oscillations can be generated or amplified by means of one or several actuators.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2008Publication date: January 13, 2011Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBHInventor: Wolfgang Gleine
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Patent number: 7861544Abstract: What is disclosed is a system designed to extract water moisture from the atmosphere, highly purify and condition the extracted water, and provide optional carbonation of the extracted water for human consumption. In one embodiment, the device collects water-vapor condensation from filtered intake air, then subjects the condensate to a series of purification filters and to a sterilization process in order to produce drinking water, while also providing a means to combine the purified water with CO2 gas to facilitate dispensing carbonated water and/or carbonated drinks.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2009Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: EcoloBlue, Inc.Inventors: Wayne Ferreira, Henri-James Tieleman
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Patent number: 7861543Abstract: A method of preventing water carryover to an object cooled by an air flow from a cooling device includes receiving at least one representation of a relative humidity of the air flow, and preventing water carryover to the object by adjusting at least one cooling parameter of the cooling device based, at least in part, on the relative humidity. Further embodiments and cooling systems are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2006Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: American Power Conversion CorporationInventors: Peter Ring Carlsen, Ole Mølgaard Christensen
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Patent number: 7856835Abstract: The present invention provides a hot water supply apparatus capable of reducing energy consumption. That is, except during operation of heating water, when a detection temperature of a temperature sensor becomes equal to or lower than a set temperature, a circulating pump is operated and a compressor is operated at a second operating frequency having a lower frequency than a first operating frequency, thereby the compressor does not have to be repeatedly operated and stopped, and can be continuously operated in a state of reduced heating power.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2008Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Assignee: Sanden CorporationInventor: Satoshi Ida
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Patent number: 7845182Abstract: A method for controlling a vehicle HVAC system to automatically defog a window and to prevent fogging or condensation of the window. In-cabin air temperature and relative humidity are used to determine a dewpoint. Further, ambient or outside air temperature is measured. Window glass temperature is either estimated/calculated or can be measured. A fog margin, which is based upon the difference between the dewpoint and the window temperature, is calculated. When the ambient air temperature is below a predetermined temperature, a corrected fog margin is substituted for the calculated fog margin. When this occurs, the controller operates a fan at a reduced voltage, and hence at a reduced speed, as compared to if the controller used the calculated fog margin. Using the corrected fog margin prevents a vehicle user from being exposed to excessive fan noise or air currents during low or cold ambient air temperatures.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2007Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Daniel Yelles
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Patent number: 7837134Abstract: An emitter electrode is cooled by a cooler to generate condensed water which is charged by a high voltage applied between the emitter electrode and an opposed electrode and is discharged as a mist of charged minute water particles. A controller is provided to vary a temperature drop to a predetermined minimum temperature in dependence of an environmental temperature detected by a temperature sensor. The temperature drop is made variable in proportion to the environmental temperature. Accordingly, a sufficient amount of water can be condensed on the emitter electrode simply by controlling the cooling of the emitter electrode without relying upon an environmental humidity.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2006Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shousuke Akisada, Sumio Wada, Toshihisa Hirai, Kishiko Hirai, legal representative, Mikio Itou, Kyohei Kada
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Patent number: 7793508Abstract: The modular arrangement of refrigerated dryers is achieved by combining refrigerated dryers in groups to produce a combined refrigerator dryer capacity. A common air inlet and/or common air outlet for the dryer is provided, along with a common controller. A cabinet to house the dryers may also be provided.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2005Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Assignee: Flair CorporationInventor: Ingo K. Radisch
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Patent number: 7788935Abstract: An automatic defogging system of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes: an input unit used for receiving a directly sensed window relative humidity value from a defogging sensor so as to directly sense a humidity generation degree in a window; a controller which controls operations of an air conditioning system programmed as a type of a logic that is selectively and phasedly controllable depending on the sensed relative humidity and; an output unit that is a selection mode of the air conditioning system that can be controlled by the controller. Accordingly, an automatic defogging system of a vehicle and a control method thereof automatically removes fog or frost on an inner surface of a window while maintaining comfortable conditions inside a vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2006Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Ki Lyong Jang, Chang Won Lee
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Patent number: 7788876Abstract: A building material comprises a plurality of transparent sheet layers, adjacent transparent sheet layers of which are disposed so as to have a gap interposed therebetween; and a vapor supply system for supplying humidified air into the gap between the adjacent transparent sheet layers. A building including the above-mentioned building material. A method for controlling the indoor environment in a building including the above-mentioned building material comprises supplying humidified air into the gap between adjacent transparent sheet layers; and generating dew condensation on a gap-side surface of the adjacent transparent sheet layers.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2007Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: Asahi Glass Green-Tec Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ichirou Yasui
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Publication number: 20100199693Abstract: A system for increasing the efficiency of a conventional air conditioner includes: an evaporative air cooler having evaporative pads; and a frame that retains the air cooler so as to enclose a condenser of the air conditioner, thereby directing pre-cooled air from the air cooler to the air conditioner. The system includes a tray and a pump that pumps the water in the tray into the evaporative air cooler, and a sensor to refill the tray. The system may be retro-fitted onto existing air conditioners.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2010Publication date: August 12, 2010Inventor: David Andrew Benesch
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Publication number: 20100192604Abstract: The present invention relates to a refrigerator unit and/or a freezer unit having an outer unit wall and/or having a door or flap closing the unit interior, wherein a heating device is provided at or in the region of the door or flap and/or at or in the region of the outer unit wall.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2008Publication date: August 5, 2010Applicant: LIEBHERR-HAUSGERĂ„TE LIENZ GMBHInventor: Helmuth Bauer
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Patent number: 7765814Abstract: A sensor assembly for detecting ice crystal formation on a heat exchange surface in an ice-making machine comprises at least one microphone monitoring the sound made by a rotating blade assembly within the ice-making machine during ice slurry formation. A filter filters the output of the microphone to remove background noise. A comparator receives the output of the filter and compares the filtered microphone output with a threshold to determine if the filtered microphone output signifies ice crystal formation on the heat exchange surface. The operation of the ice-making machine can then be adjusted in a manner to allow the formed ice crystals to be removed from the heat exchange surface.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2007Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: Sunwell Engineering Company LimitedInventor: Vladimir Goldstein
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Patent number: 7765815Abstract: A refrigerator which includes a refrigerating compartment and a freezing compartment, a first evaporator and a second evaporator corresponding to the refrigerating compartment and the freezing compartment, respectively, a compressor compressing refrigerant to be supplied to the first and second evaporators, a first fan and a second fan supplying cool air to the compartments, respectively, an external temperature sensor detecting an external temperature of the refrigerator, a multi-directional valve supplying the refrigerant to at least one of the evaporators, and a control unit operating the compressor and the multi-directional valve, and driving the first fan and the second fan until temperatures of the compartments reach a predetermined reference temperature.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2006Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Won-jae Yoon, Chul-woong Park
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Publication number: 20100107666Abstract: Consists of the installation of a set of condensation control elements on to the lower rear part of the external condenser units of air-conditioning systems, permitting the elimination by evaporation of the liquid formed in the air-conditioning process. The system is made up of an electric liquid level sensor, which is connected to the liquid collection container on the bottom of the external condenser unit, and which, depending on the level of liquid in the container, activates the pump, which pumps the water through pipes connected to the rear ventilation grille and releases it on to the condenser through atomizers at the end of the pipes, causing the liquid to evaporate, thereby making it unnecessary to install condensed liquid drainage pipes and improving heat efficiency by cooling the ventilation grille of the condenser unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 13, 2007Publication date: May 6, 2010Inventor: Francisco Javier Santana Leon
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Publication number: 20100101252Abstract: An air conditioning system condensate collection pan or water leak containment pan electrical control switch includes a housing or frame for supporting a switch unit which includes an elongated actuator arm. The housing includes a slot disposed adjacent a distal end of the actuator arm for receiving a water soluble tablet engageable with the actuator arm to bias the arm into a predetermined position of the switch. Abnormal accumulation of condensate or leaking water dissolves the tablet and allows the actuator arm to move to a position to effect actuation of the switch. The switch may be connected to a control unit, a thermostat and/or to an alarm generator including a self-contained unit having battery powered audio and/or visual alarm devices, an on-off switch and a circuit test switch.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2010Publication date: April 29, 2010Inventor: Joe D. Robinson
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Patent number: 7699238Abstract: The present invention relates to a steam trap for draining off condensate from a collecting chamber in which condensate resulting in a pressure gas system is collected, the collecting chamber being pressurized by a gas pressure which, depending upon the operating state of the pressure gas system, may be a negative pressure below the atmospheric pressure, an overpressure above the atmospheric pressure or an atmospheric pressure itself. The steam trap may be separated via an interface into an integral first assembly unit and an integral maintenance assembly unit which comprises the essential wear and tear parts.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2006Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: Beko Technologies GmbHInventor: Johannes Sinstedten