Processor-controlled gas appliances and microprocessor-actuated valves for use therein
US4930488A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 18, 1988 |
| Grant date | Jun 5, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 18, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/86389
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A microprocessor-controlled gas appliance basically comprising three components: (1) a computer processor with a sensor interface, (2) a valve assembly, and (3) a human interface. The sensor interface is capable of passing the input from a series of sensors through the processor for subsequent use in controlling the operation of a burner valve in the valve assembly. Appropriate sensors are provided for connection to the sensor interface to measure, among other things, flame temperature, gas flow, carbon monoxide, combustibles, occupancy by an individual in the presence of the gas appliance, and gas composition. The valve controls the flow of natural gas through a line from a source of gas to a burner found in the appliance. The valve is controlled through a valve operator that responds to signals obtained from the computer processor via valve interface electronics. The valve, valve operator and valve interface electronics together form the valve assembly which the second basic component of the microprocessor-based system. The third component of the system provides a way for the human user to interact with the gas appliance control system. In this regard, there is provided a visual …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.