Electronic control circuit for household appliances including humidifiers
US7109444B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 3, 2005 |
| Grant date | Sep 19, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 3, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH05K7/20209
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An electronic control circuit for use with a heater, a fan, a humidifier, a cooking apparatus, or any device utilizing a power mode switch and a condition sensor, and optionally time-automated switching of modes of operation. The circuit includes a single control switch to switch between operational modes and to select a level of operation. The circuit preferably includes an application-specific integrated circuit, to provide circuit logic. The single control switch, preferably a push-button switch, selects a mode of operation for a household appliance controlling a local environment, e.g., a humidifier or a heater, and the level of operation. The unit operates in the selected operational mode at the selected level, as indicated by either an energized light-emitting diode or a digital display. Operational modes may include a timed mode, a manual mode, and/or automatic mode for regulation of the environmental condition with a sensor included in the circuit.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.