Shadow-free shutter arrangement and method
US7045746B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 12, 2003 |
| Grant date | May 16, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 12, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF27D5/0037
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
As part of a system for processing a workpiece by applying a controlled heat to the workpiece, a heating arrangement includes an array of spaced apart heating elements for use in a confronting relationship with the workpiece to subject the workpiece to a direct radiation that is produced. A radiation shield includes a plurality of members supported for movement between (i) retracted positions, which allow the direct radiation to reach the workpiece, and (ii) extended positions, in which the plurality of members cooperate in way which serves to at least partially block the direct radiation from reaching the workpiece and to absorb radiation emitted and reflected by the workpiece and thereby achieve greater control of the time-temperature profile than previously obtainable. At least certain ones of the members move between adjacent ones of the heating elements in moving those certain members between the retracted and extended positions. Tubular, curved and plate-like member configurations can be used.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.