1. Field of the Invention
Certain embodiments disclosed herein relate generally to a heating apparatus for use in a gas appliance particularly adapted for dual fuel use. The heating apparatus can be, can be a part of, and can be used in or with many different appliances, including, but not limited to: heaters, boilers, dryers, washing machines, ovens, fireplaces, stoves, water heaters, barbeques, etc.
2. Description of the Related Art
Many varieties of appliances, such as heaters, boilers, dryers, washing machines, ovens, fireplaces, stoves, and other heat-producing devices utilize pressurized, combustible fuels. Some such devices operate with liquid propane, while others operate with natural gas. However, such devices and certain components thereof have various limitations and disadvantages. Therefore, there exists a constant need for improvement in appliances and components to be used in appliances.
A heater assembly can be used with one of a first fuel type or a second fuel type different than the first. The heater assembly can include at least one pressure regulator, a housing, and an actuation member. The housing has a first fuel hook-up for connecting the first fuel type to the heater assembly, a second fuel hook-up for connecting the second fuel type to the heater assembly, and an internal valve. The actuation member can control the position of the internal valve based on whether the first or the second fuel hook-up is used or selected.
A heater assembly according to some embodiments can comprise a pressure regulator having a first position and a second position, a housing having first and second fuel hook-ups, and an actuation member. The first fuel hook-up can be for connecting a first fuel type to the heater assembly and the second hook-up can be for connecting a second fuel type to the heater assembly. The actuation member can have an end located within the second fuel hook-up and a first position and a second position. The actuation member can be configured such that connecting a fuel source to the heater assembly at the second fuel hook-up moves the actuation member from the first position to the second position which causes the pressure regulator to move from the first position to the second position. The pressure regulator in the second position can be configured to regulate a fuel flow of the second fuel type within a predetermined range.
The heater assembly can have a pressure regulator where the first position is configured to regulate a fuel flow of the first fuel type within a predetermined range different than the predetermined range for the second fuel type. Alternatively, the heater assembly can include a second pressure regulator configured to regulate a fuel flow of the first fuel type within a predetermined range different than the predetermined range for the second fuel type.
The actuation member can comprise a rod configured for linear advancement from the first position to the second position. The rod can extend along a longitudinal axis and have a plurality of longitudinal cross-sections of different shapes. A first section of the actuation member can be associated with the pressure regulator in the first position and a second section of the actuation member can be associated with the pressure regulator in the second position, the first section having a longitudinal cross-section of a different shape than the second section.
The heater assembly can further include additional valves that can also be controlled with the actuation member. The heater assembly can also include an additional actuation member.
In some embodiments, a heater assembly can comprise at least one pressure regulator, a housing, and a first actuation member. The housing can include a first fuel hook-up for connecting the first fuel type to the heater assembly, a second fuel hook-up for connecting the second fuel type to the heater assembly, a first inlet, a first outlet, a second outlet configured with an open position and a closed position, and a first valve configured to open and close the second outlet. The first actuation member can have an end located within the second fuel hook-up and a first position and a second position. The first actuation member can be configured such that connecting a fuel source to the heater assembly at the second fuel hook-up moves the actuation member from the first position to the second position which causes the first valve to open the second outlet, the second outlet being in fluid communication with the second fuel hook-up.
The first actuation member can be further configured such that connecting the fuel source to the heater assembly at the second fuel hook-up moves the first actuation member from the first position to the second position which causes the at least one pressure regulator to move from a first position to a second position, wherein the at least one pressure regulator in the second position is configured to regulate a fuel flow of the second fuel type within a predetermined range.
In some embodiments, a heater assembly can comprise a pressure regulator, a housing and an actuation member. The pressure regulator can have a first position configured to regulate a fuel flow of a first fuel type within a first predetermined range, and a second position configured to regulate a fuel flow of a second fuel type within a second predetermined range different from the first. The pressure regulator can comprise a diaphragm, a valve and at least one spring operatively coupled to the diaphragm and the valve. The spring can have a first spring height in the pressure regulator first position and a second spring height in the pressure regulator second position. The housing can have first and second fuel hook-ups, the first fuel hook-up for connecting the first fuel type to the heater assembly and the second hook-up for connecting the second fuel type to the heater assembly. The actuation member can have an end located within the second fuel hook-up, a first position and a second position. The actuation member can be configured such that connecting a fuel source to the heater assembly at the second fuel hook-up moves the actuation member from the first position to the second position which changes the height of the spring from the first spring height to the second spring height and thereby moving the pressure regulator from the first position to the second position.
These and other features, aspects and advantages are described below with reference to the drawings, which are intended to illustrate but not to limit the invention. In the drawings, like reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout similar embodiments.
FIGS. 4A1 and 4A2 show the heating source of
FIGS. 4B1 and 4B2 are cross-sections of the heating source of
FIGS. 9A1 and 9A2 show the heating source of
Many varieties of space heaters, fireplaces, stoves, ovens, boilers, fireplace inserts, gas logs, and other heat-producing devices employ combustible fuels, such as liquid propane and natural gas. These devices generally are designed to operate with a single fuel type at a specific pressure. For example, as one having skill in the art would appreciate, some gas heaters that are configured to be installed on a wall or a floor operate with natural gas at a pressure in a range from about 3 inches of water column to about 6 inches of water column, while others operate with liquid propane at a pressure in a range from about 8 inches of water column to about 12 inches of water column.
In many instances, the operability of such devices with only a single fuel source is disadvantageous for distributors, retailers, and/or consumers. For example, retail stores often try to predict the demand for natural gas units versus liquid propane units over a given season, and accordingly stock their shelves and/or warehouses with a percentage of each variety of device. Should such predictions prove incorrect, stores can be left with unsold units when the demand for one type of unit was less than expected, while some potential customers can be left waiting through shipping delays or even be turned away empty-handed when the demand for one type of unit was greater than expected. Either case can result in financial and other costs to the stores. Additionally, some consumers can be disappointed to discover that the styles or models of stoves, fireplaces or other device, with which they wish to improve their homes, are incompatible with the fuel sources with which their homes are serviced.
Certain advantageous embodiments disclosed herein reduce or eliminate these and other problems associated with devices having heating sources that operate with only a single type of fuel source. Furthermore, although certain of the embodiments described hereafter are presented in the context of vent-free heating systems, the apparatus and devices disclosed and enabled herein can benefit a wide variety of other applications and appliances.
The heater 100 can comprise a housing 200. The housing 200 can include metal or some other suitable material for providing structure to the heater 100 without melting or otherwise deforming in a heated environment. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 200 comprises a window 220, one or more intake vents 240 and one or more outlet vents 260. Heated air and/or radiant energy can pass through the window 220. Air can flow into the heater 100 through the one or more intake vents 240 and heated air can flow out of the heater 100 through the outlet vents 260.
With reference to
In some embodiments, including the illustrated embodiment, the heater 100 comprises a burner 190. The ODS 180 can be mounted to the burner 190, as shown. The nozzle 160 can be positioned to discharge a fluid, which may be a gas, liquid, or combination thereof into the burner 190. For purposes of brevity, recitation of the term “gas or liquid” hereafter shall also include the possibility of a combination of a gas and a liquid. In addition, as used herein, the term “fluid” is a broad term used in its ordinary sense, and includes materials or substances capable of fluid flow, such as gases, liquids, and combinations thereof.
Where the heater 100 is a dual fuel heater, either a first or a second fluid is introduced into the heater 100 through the regulator 120. Still referring to
In certain embodiments, when the fluid flow controller 140 is in the first state, a portion of the first fluid proceeds through the first nozzle line 141, through the nozzle 160 and is delivered to the burner 190, and a portion of the first fluid proceeds through the first ODS line 143 to the ODS 180. Similarly, when the fluid flow controller 140 is in the second state, a portion of the second fluid proceeds through the nozzle 160 and another portion proceeds to the ODS 180. As discussed in more detail below, other configurations are also possible.
A heating assembly or heating source 10 that can be used with the heater 100, or other gas appliances, will now be described. The heating source 10 can be configured such that the installer of the gas appliance can connect the assembly to one of two fuels, such as either a supply of natural gas (NG) or a supply of propane (LP) and the assembly will desirably operate in the standard mode (with respect to efficiency and flame size and color) for either gas.
Looking at FIGS. 3A-4B2, a heating source 10 can comprise a fuel selector valve 3. The fuel selector valve 3 can be used for selecting between two different fuels and for setting certain parameters, such as one or more flow paths, and/or a setting on one or more pressure regulators based on the desired and selected fuel. The fuel selector valve 3 can have a first mode configured to direct a flow of a first fuel (such as NG) in a first path through the fuel selector valve 3 and a second mode configured to direct a flow of a second fuel (such as LP) in a second path through the fuel selector valve 3.
The fuel selector valve 3 can further comprise first and second fuel source connections or hook-ups 12, 14. The fuel selector valve 3 can connect to one of two different fuel sources, each fuel source having a different type of fuel therein. For example, one fuel source can be a cylinder of LP and another fuel source can be a NG fuel line in a house, connected to a city gas line. The first and second fuel source connections 12, 14 can comprise any type of connection such as a threaded connection, a locking connection, an advance and twist type connection, etc.
An embodiment of a fuel selector valve 3 is shown in
The fuel selector valve 3 can be configured to select one or more flow paths through the fuel selector valve 3 and/or to set a parameter of the fuel selector valve. For example, the fuel selector valve 3 can include one or more valves, where the position of the valve can determine one or more flow paths through the fuel selector valve 3, such as a fluid exit or entry pathway. As another example, the fuel selector valve 3 can control certain parameters of the pressure regulator 16.
With reference to FIGS. 4-4A2, it can be seen that the fuel selector valve 3 can include one or more actuation members 22, 24. The actuation members 22, 24 can be used for many purposes such as to select one or more flow paths through the fuel selector valve 3 and/or to set a parameter of the fuel selector valve. The one or more actuation members can be provided in the fuel selector valve 3 in many ways. As shown, the actuation members are spring loaded rods that can be advanced in a linear motion. An actuation member can be one or more of a linkage, a rod, an electric or mechanical button, a pin, a slider, a gear, a cam, etc.
As shown, the actuation member 22 has an end 26 positioned within the first fuel source connection 12. A connector 30 can be attached to the first fuel source connection 12 by advancing the connector into the first fuel source connection 12. This can force the actuation member end 26 into the housing of the fuel selector valve 3. This force then counteracts a spring force provided by a spring 32 to open a valve 34.
FIG. 4A1 shows the open valve 34 with the connector 30 attached to the first fuel source connection 12. The connector 30 can be part of a fuel source to provide fuel to the heater assembly 10. With the valve 34 in the open position, fuel from the fuel source can flow through the connector 30 and into the fuel selector valve 3. In particular, as shown, fuel can flow into the first fuel source connection 12, then to the pressure regulator 16 and finally out of the fuel selector valve 3 by way of outlet 18 (
Alternatively, the connector 30 can be connected to the second fuel source connection 14. This can open the valve 36 by pressing on the end 28 of the second actuation member 24. Fuel can then flow from the fuel source through the connector 30 into the fuel source connection 14. The fuel can then flow to the pressure regulator 16 and out through outlet 18.
The presence of two valves 34, 36, one at each fuel source connection 12, 14, can prevent fuel from exiting the fuel selector valve 3 undesirably, as well as preventing other undesirable materials from entering the fuel selector valve 3. In some embodiments, the fuel selector valve can utilize a cap or plug to block the unused fuel source connection. This may be in addition to or instead of one or more valves at the fuel source connections. For example, in some embodiments the actuation member 24 does not include a valve at the fuel source connection 14.
In addition to or instead of providing a valve 36 at the inlet or fuel source connection 14, the actuation member 24 can be in a position to control a parameter of the pressure regulator 16. Referring back to
In another embodiment, the actuation member contacts the pressure regulator 16 directly, such as at the cap 41, without the assistance of an arm or other device to set the regulating pressure of the pressure regulator.
The pressure regulator 16 can be set to a first position as shown in
In some embodiments, the second pressure can be set to be within the range of about 8 inches of water column to about 12 inches of water column, including all values and sub-ranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the second threshold or flow-terminating pressure is about equal to 8 inches of water column, about 9 inches of water column, about 10 inches of water column, about 11 inches of water column, or about 12 inches of water column.
When natural gas is the first fuel and propane is the second fuel, the first pressure, pressure range and threshold pressure are less than the second pressure, pressure range and threshold pressure. Stated differently, in some embodiments, when natural gas is the first fuel and propane is the second fuel, the second pressure, pressure range and threshold pressure are greater than the first pressure, pressure range and threshold pressure.
The pressure regulator 16 can function in a similar manner to that discussed in U.S. application Ser. No. 11/443,484, filed May 30, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,607,426, incorporated herein by reference and made a part of this specification; with particular reference to the discussion on pressure regulators at columns 3-9 and FIGS. 3-7 of the issued patent.
The pressure settings can be further adjusted by tensioning of a screw or other device 41 that allows for flow control of the fuel at a predetermined pressure or pressure range and selectively maintains an orifice open so that the fuel can flow through spring-loaded valve or valve assembly of the pressure regulator. If the pressure exceeds a threshold pressure, a plunger seat 43 can be pushed towards a seal ring 45 to seal off the orifice, thereby closing the pressure regulator.
The fuel selector valve 3 can permit the flow of fuel from one or more pressure regulators, through the fuel selector valve 3 and into additional components. The additional components can be, for example, the heater control valve 130, the fluid flow controller 140, the nozzle 160, etc. In some embodiments, the additional components can comprise a control valve which comprises at least one of a manual valve, a thermostat valve, an AC solenoid, a DC solenoid and a flame adjustment motor. In various embodiments, the additional components may or may not comprise part of the heating source 10. The additional components can be configured to use the fuel, such as for combustion, and/or to direct one or more lines of fuel to other uses or areas of the heater 100 or other appliance.
Returning now to FIGS. 4A1-4B2, the functioning of the arm 38 and the actuation member 24 will be described in more detail. The actuation member 24 can have a varying or undulating surface that engages the arm 38. The arm 38 can move with the varying surface thereby changing the position of the arm 38. The arm 38 can be made from a resilient flexible material, such as metal or plastic, but can also be rigid. The arm as shown is a flexible material that can be moved and bent between positions with a resiliency to return to an unbent or less bent position. In other embodiments, the arm can be a linkage, a pinned rotating arm, a member suspended between the actuation member and the pressure regulator, etc. The arm 38 can be elongate, have spring qualities, be biased upwards, be a bent metal arm or beam, etc.
The actuation member 24 can have sections of different heights (H2, H4). For example, the actuation member 24 can include flat spots or sections with a diameter different than adjacent sections. As can be seen, the actuation member includes a flat portion 44 with a transition portion 46 that extends between the initial outer diameter of the cylindrical rod and the flat portion 44. Alternatively, the portion 44 can have smaller diameter than the initial outer diameter of the rod. The rod can extend along a longitudinal axis and have a plurality of longitudinal cross-sections of different shapes. The actuation member 24 can be a type of cam and can also be shapes, besides cylindrical, and can have a surface that varies to provide different heights to the arm 38 for engaging the arm and setting the pressure at the pressure regulator 16.
Looking now to
The fuel selector valve 3 can permit the flow of fuel from the pressure regulator 16 through the fuel selector valve 3 and then into additional components. The additional components can be, for example, the heater control valve 130, the fluid flow controller 140, the nozzle 160, etc. In some embodiments, the additional components can comprise a control valve which comprises at least one of a manual valve, a thermostat valve, an AC solenoid, a DC solenoid and a flame adjustment motor. In various embodiments, the additional components may or may not comprise part of the heating source 10. The additional components can be configured to use the fuel, such as for combustion, and/or to direct one or more lines of fuel to other uses or areas of the heater 100 or other appliance.
In other embodiments, the two outlets can both have separate open and closed positions with separate valves located at each outlet. Thus, the valve 48 can comprise two valves. The selection of the fuel source connection can determine which valve is opened. For example, selecting the first fuel source connection 12 can allow fuel flow through the initial configuration of the pressure regulator and can open the first valve at one of the outlets. Selecting the second fuel source connection 14 can move the pressure regulator 16 to its secondary configuration and open the second valve at the other of the outlets.
The other component 52 can preferably be a control valve. In some embodiments, the control valve can comprise at least one of a manual valve, a thermostat valve, an AC solenoid, a DC solenoid and a flame adjustment motor. For example the control valve 52 can include two solenoids. Each solenoid can control the flow of fuel to one of the valves 48, 50. The valves can then direct fuel to additional components such as a pilot light or oxygen depletion sensor and to a nozzle. In some embodiments, each line leaving the valve can be configured to direct a particular type of fuel to a component configured specific to that type of fuel. For example, one valve may have two lines with each line connected to a different nozzle. The two nozzles can each have a different sized orifice and/or air hole and each can be configured for a particular fuel type.
Turning now to
In each of the embodiments shown in
Turning now to
Looking to
As discussed, selecting one of the first and second fuel source connections 12, 14 can determine the flow path through the heating source. In particular, the actuation member 24 can move the valves 48 and 50 from an initial position to a secondary position in a manner similar to that described above with reference to the pressure regulator.
The fuel selector valve 3 can be used for selecting between two different fuels and for setting certain parameters, such as one or more flow paths, and/or a setting on one or more pressure regulators based on the desired and selected fuel. The fuel selector valve 3 can have a first mode configured to direct a flow of a first fuel (such as NG) in a first path through the fuel selector valve 3 and a second mode configured to direct a flow of a second fuel (such as LP) in a second path through the fuel selector valve 3.
The fuel selector valve 3 can further comprise first and second fuel source connections or hook-ups 12, 14. The fuel selector valve 3 can connect to one of two different fuel sources, each fuel source having a different type of fuel therein.
A pressure regulator 16 is positioned within the housing such that fluid entering the fuel selector valve 3 via either the first or second fuel source connection 12, 14 can be directed to the pressure regulator 16. Fuel from the pressure regulator 16 can then flow to the control valve 52 as discussed above. In some embodiments, the fuel selector valve 3 has two separate pressure regulators such that each fuel source connection directs fuel to a specific pressure regulator.
The fuel selector valve 3 can be configured to select one or more flow paths through the fuel selector valve 3 and/or to set a parameter of the fuel selector valve. For example, the fuel selector valve 3 may include two valves 48, 50, where the position of the valve can determine a flow path through the fuel selector valve 3. The fuel selector valve 3 can also control certain parameters of the pressure regulator 16.
With reference to FIGS. 9-9A2, it can be seen that the fuel selector valve 3 can include one or more actuation members 22, 24. The actuation members 22, 24 can be used for many purposes such as to select one or more flow paths through the fuel selector valve 3 and/or to set a parameter of the fuel selector valve. As shown, the actuation members are spring loaded rods that can be advanced in a linear motion.
The illustrated actuation member 22 has an end 26 positioned within the first fuel source connection 12. A connector 30 can be attached to the first fuel source connection 12 by advancing the connector into the first fuel source connection 12. This can force the actuation member end 26 into the housing of the fuel selector valve 3. This force then counteracts a spring force provided by a spring 32 to open a valve 34.
FIG. 9A1 shows the open valve 34 with the connector 30 attached to the first fuel source connection 12. The connector 30 can be part of a fuel source to provide fuel to the heater assembly 10. With the valve 34 in the open position, fuel from the fuel source can flow into the first fuel source connection 12, to the pressure regulator 16, then to the control valve 52 and then to one or both of the valves 48, 50 before finally leaving the fuel selector valve 3.
Alternatively, the connector 30 can be connected to the second fuel source connection 14 as shown in FIG. 9A2. This can open the valve 36 by pressing on the end 28 of the second actuation member 24. Fuel can then flow from the fuel source through the connector 30 into the fuel selector valve 3 and through the fuel selector valve 3 in the same manner as mentioned above.
The presence of two valves 34, 36, one at each fuel source connection 12, 14, can prevent fuel from exiting the fuel selector valve 3 undesirably, as well as preventing other undesirable materials from entering the fuel selector valve 3. In some embodiments, the fuel selector valve can utilize a cap or plug to block the unused fuel source connection. This may be in addition to or instead of one or more valves at the fuel source connections. For example, in some embodiments the actuation member 24 does not include a valve at the fuel source connection 14.
In addition to, or instead of, providing a valve 36 at the inlet or fuel source connection 14, the actuation member 24 can be in a position to control a parameter of the pressure regulator 16, such as by an arm 38 that extends between the actuation member 24 and the pressure regulator 16. The actuation member 24 can act on the arm, determining the position of the arm 38. The position of the arm 38 can then determine the height of the spring 40 within the pressure regulator. The height of the spring 40 can be a factor in determining the force required to move the diaphragm 42. The spring height can be used to set the pressure of the fluid flowing through the pressure regulator.
In addition to controlling the pressure regulator, the actuation member 24 can also control one or more valves, including valves 48, 50. The actuation member 24 can have a varying or undulating surface that engages the arms 38 as shown in FIGS. 9A1-9A2. The arms 38 can move with the varying surface thereby changing the position of the arms 38.
The actuation member 24 can include flat spots or sections with a diameter different than adjacent sections. As can be seen, the actuation member includes flat portions 44 with transition portions 46 that extend between the initial outer diameter of the cylindrical rod and the flat portions 44. Alternatively, the portion 44 can have a smaller diameter than the initial outer diameter of the rod. The rod can extend along a longitudinal axis and have a plurality of longitudinal cross-sections of different shapes. The actuation member 24 can be a type of cam and can also be shapes, besides cylindrical, and can have a surface that varies to provide different heights to the arms 38 for engaging the arms.
Looking now to
Valve 48 is shown having a valve body 62 that can control the fluid flow path and whether the flow exits the valve 48 through one of two outlets 70, 72. The valve body 62 can be seated against one of two different ledges 64, 66 surrounding an opening to either open or close the pathway 71, 73 to the respective outlet 70, 72. Fluid can enter the valve, such as from the control valve 52 as indicated by the dotted line. The position of the valve body 62 within the valve 48 can then determine whether the fluid exits via the first outlet 70 or the second outlet 72.
The valve body 62 can have a spring 32 to bias the valve body towards a first position as shown in
The valve body 62 can also engage the arm 38 so that the position of the valve body 62 is controlled by the actuation member 24. As mentioned with respect to the pressure regulator, in some embodiments, the actuation member 24 can contact the valve body directly, without the use of an arm 38. Also, the arm 38 can take any form to allow the actuation member to control the position of the valve body within the valve 48.
The valve 48 can also include a diaphragm 68. The diaphragm 68 can be different from the diaphragm 42 in the pressure regulator (
Turning now to
The pressure settings of each pressure regulator 16′, 16″ can be independently adjusted by tensioning of a screw or other device 41 that allows for flow control of the fuel at a predetermined pressure or pressure range and selectively maintains an orifice open so that the fuel can flow through spring-loaded valve or valve assembly of the pressure regulator. If the pressure exceeds a threshold pressure, a plunger seat 43 can be pushed towards a seal ring 45 to seal off the orifice, thereby closing the pressure regulator.
Turning now to
The fuel selector valve may also include valves in or near the fuel source connections 12, 14. This can help to control the flow of fuel into the fuel selector valve as has been previously discussed.
As before, it will be understood that the valve 50′ can be similar to valve 48′ or can have a different configuration. For example, the valve 50′ may have one or two outlets and it may include a nozzle in the one outlet.
Turning now to
A pressure regulator 16 is positioned within the housing such that fluid entering the fuel selector valve 3 via either the first or second fuel source connection 12, 14 can be directed to the pressure regulator 16.
With continued reference to
As shown, the actuation member 22 has an end 26 positioned within the first fuel source connection 12. A connector 30 can be attached to the first fuel source connection 12 by advancing the connector into the first fuel source connection 12. This can force the actuation member end 26 into the housing of the fuel selector valve 3. This force then counteracts a spring force provided by a spring 32 to open a valve 34. Actuation member 24 can function in a similar manner. The presence of two valves 34, 36, one at each fuel source connection 12, 14, can prevent fuel from exiting the fuel selector valve 3 undesirably, as well as preventing other undesirable materials from entering the fuel selector valve 3.
In addition to or instead of providing a valve 36 at the inlet or fuel source connection 14, the actuation member 24 can be in a position to control a parameter of the pressure regulator 16. Referring to
A secondary spring 92 is shown operatively connected to the arm 90. The secondary spring 92 can assist the main regulator spring 40 to set a desired regulation pressure. For example, the secondary spring 92 can have an engaged position (
In the embodiment of
Turning now to
In some embodiments, the fuel selector valve 3 can direct fuel to a control valve 130. The control valve can include at least one of a manual valve, a thermostat valve, an AC solenoid, a DC solenoid and a flame adjustment motor. The control valve 130 can direct fuel back to the fuel selector valve 3 and/or to a nozzle assembly 160. In some embodiments the nozzle assembly 160 can be part of the fuel selector valve 3. The nozzle assembly 160 can be similar the various embodiments that described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/310,664 filed Dec. 2, 2011 and published as U.S. 2012/0255536, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein and are to be considered a part of the specification.
An air shutter 170 can be positioned around the nozzle assembly 160 and have an opening and a cover. An air shutter can be used to introduce air into the flow of fuel prior to combustion. The amount of air that is needed to be introduced depends on the type of fuel used. For example, propane gas needs more air than natural gas to produce a flame of the same size. It will be understood that an air shutter can be used with any of the embodiments discussed herein.
The fuel selector valve 3 can also direct fuel to an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) 180. In some embodiments, the fuel selector valve 3 can be coupled with ODS lines 143 and 144. As shown, the ODS 180 has a thermocouple 182 coupled to the control valve 130, and an igniter line 184 coupled with an igniter 186. In some embodiments, the ODS 180 can be mounted to the main burner 190.
As also shown in
Referring now to
Among other features, the heating assembly 100 can be used to select between two different fuels and to set certain parameters, such as one or more flow paths, and/or a setting on one or more pressure regulators based on the desired and selected fuel. The heating assembly 100 can have a first mode configured to direct a flow of a first fuel (such as LP) in a first path through the heating assembly 100 and a second mode configured to direct a flow of a second fuel (such as NG) in a second path through the heating assembly 100.
The fuel selector valve 3 can be used to select between two different fuels and to set certain parameters, such as one or more flow paths, and/or a setting on one or more pressure regulators based on the desired and selected fuel. The fuel selector valve 3 can have a first mode configured to direct a flow of a first fuel (such as LPG) on a first path through the fuel selector valve 3 and a second mode configured to direct a flow of a second fuel (such as NG) on a second path through the fuel selector valve 3. The fuel selector valve 3 can also include one or more actuation members as has been previously described with respect to previous embodiments. In some embodiments, the fuel selector valve 3 can be configured such that inlets of the valve are only open when they are connected to a source of fuel, as described in more detail below.
As described with respect to various embodiments above, the actuation members can have sealing sections 34, 36 that can seat against respective ledges to close or substantially close their respective inlets 12, 14. Thus, the first actuation member 22 can have a first position in which the sealing section 34 of the first actuation member seats against the first ledge. Similarly, the second actuation member 24 can have a first position in which the sealing section 36 of the second actuation member seats against the second ledge. Each actuation member preferably has a biasing member, such as a spring 32 that biases the actuation member toward the first position.
As described in various embodiments above, when a fitting for a source of fuel connects to one of the inlets, it can move the actuation member into a second position that allows fluid to flow through the inlet.
As with some pressure regulators described above, the pressure settings of each pressure regulator 16 can be independently adjusted by tensioning of a screw or other device that allows for flow control of the fuel at a predetermined pressure or pressure range (which can correspond to a height of a spring) and selectively maintains an orifice open so that the fuel can flow through a spring-loaded valve or valve assembly of the pressure regulator. If the pressure exceeds a threshold pressure, a plunger seat can be pushed towards a seal ring to seal off the orifice, thereby closing the pressure regulator. In some embodiments, a fuel selector valve 3 can include two inlets with respective inlet valves as well as dedicated pressure regulators that can direct fluid flow to an outlet. Other embodiments may have additional features.
Turning now to
As best seen in
The actuation members 22, 24 are shown as have three separate movable members. For example, actuation member 22 has a first valve 26, a moveable member 102 and a second valve 112. This second valve 112 of actuation member 22 is also the third valve of the system. Actuation member 24 is shown with a first valve 28, a moveable member 104 and a second valve 114. In the overall system, these valves are also called the second valve 28 and the fourth valve 112. One benefit of having two or more independently movable members is that having two or more separate members can allow each member to properly seat to the respective valve to prevent leakage. Though it will be understood that one, two, or more members could be used. It can also be seen that a number of springs 32 and o-rings, 106 can be used to bias the members to their initial positions and to prevent leakage.
A fourth flow path is closed as the actuation member 24 has not been advanced. Thus, the second moveable member 104 has also not been advanced. The second moveable member 104 is operatively coupled to valve member 28 through a spring 32 positioned between them. The second moveable member 104 can contact the fourth valve member 114. As it has not been advanced, the valve seat 110 remains closed, preventing fluid flow between third inlet 94 and third outlet 96. It will be understood that connecting a fitting in the inlet 14 can open the second and fourth flow paths.
In some embodiments, a fuel selector valve 3 similar to that described with respect to
Turning now to
In some embodiments, the fuel selector valve 3 can direct fuel to a control valve 130. The control valve can include at least one of a manual valve, a thermostat valve, an AC solenoid, a DC solenoid and a flame adjustment motor. The control valve 130 can direct fuel back to the fuel selector valve 3 and/or to a nozzle assembly 160. In some embodiments the nozzle assembly 160 can be part of the fuel selector valve 3. As shown, the control valve 130 directs fuel flow to both the fuel selector valve 3 and to the nozzle assembly 160. The fuel selector valve 3 can then selectably direct an additional flow of fuel to the nozzle assembly 160.
The fuel selector valve 3 can also direct fuel to an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) 180. In some embodiments, the fuel selector valve 3 can be coupled with ODS lines 143 and 144. As shown, the ODS 180 has a thermocouple 182 coupled to the control valve 130, and an igniter line 184 coupled with an igniter 186. In some embodiments, the ODS 180 can be mounted to the main burner 190.
As also shown in
Referring now to
As described with respect to various embodiments above, the actuation members can have sealing sections 34, 36 that can seat against respective ledges to close or substantially close their respective inlets 12, 14. Thus, the first actuation member 22 can have a first position in which the sealing section 34 of the first actuation member seats against the first ledge. Similarly, the second actuation member 24 can have a first position in which the sealing section 36 of the second actuation member seats against the second ledge. Each actuation member preferably has a biasing member, such as a spring 32 that biases the actuation member toward the first position.
As described in various embodiments above, when a fitting for a source of fuel connects to one of the inlets, it can move the actuation member into a second position that allows fluid to flow through the inlet.
The fuel selector valve 3 as illustrated includes a pressure regulator 16 that can function in a manner similar to that described with respect to
The arm 90 can be coupled to the actuation member 24 through a slot 116 and tongue. When the actuation member 24 is advanced, the arm 90 can be forced to move towards the pressure regulator. Moving towards the pressure regulator 16 can cause the secondary spring 92 to engage the valve 43 (
In the embodiment of
As has been mentioned, the flow can then travel to a control valve 130 or to another component before returning to the fuel selector valve 3. Returning to
The flow between these inlets and outlets can be controlled through a third actuation member 118. Though in other embodiments, the actuation member 24 can be used. As shown, the inlet 14 has an actuation member 118 outside of the inlet 14. A spring 32 can be used to bias the actuation member 118 to a spaced away initial position. Inserting a fitting 30 can advance the actuation member 118, as can be seen by comparing
It will be understood that the third actuation member and/or a system that advances one or two valves can be done independent of the other features of the illustrated fuel selector valve. For example, a fuel selector valve can have the illustrated third actuator, though it may be the first and/or only actuator. In addition, the fuel selector valve may have two separate pressure regulators, or an adjustable pressure regulator that works in ways other than that illustrated in
Each of the fuel selector valves described herein can be used with a pilot light or oxygen depletion sensor, a nozzle, and a burner to form part of a heater or other gas appliance. The different configurations of valves and controls such as by the actuation members can allow the fuel selector valve to be used in different types of systems. For example, the fuel selector valve can be used in a dual fuel heater system with separate ODS and nozzles for each fuel. The fuel selector valve can also be used with nozzles and ODS that are pressure sensitive so that can be only one nozzle, one ODS, or one line leading to the various components from the fuel selector valve.
According to some embodiments, a heater assembly can be uses with one of a first fuel type or a second fuel type different than the first. The heater assembly can include a pressure regulator having a first position and a second position and a housing having first and second fuel hook-ups. The first fuel hook-up can be used for connecting the first fuel type to the heater assembly and the second hook-up can be used for connecting the second fuel type to the heater assembly. An actuation member can be positioned such that one end is located within the second fuel hook-up. The actuation member can have a first position and a second position, such that connecting a fuel source to the heater assembly at the second fuel hook-up moves the actuation member from the first position to the second position. This can cause the pressure regulator to move from its first position to its second position. As has been discussed, the pressure regulator in the second position can be configured to regulate a fuel flow of the second fuel type within a predetermined range.
The heater assembly may also include one or more of a second pressure regulator, a second actuation member, and one or more arms extending between the respective actuation member and pressure regulator. The one ore more arms can be configured to establish a compressible height of a pressure regulator spring within the pressure regulator.
A heater assembly can be used with one of a first fuel type or a second fuel type different than the first. The heater assembly can include at least one pressure regulator and a housing. The housing can comprise a first fuel hook-up for connecting the first fuel type to the heater assembly, and a second fuel hook-up for connecting the second fuel type to the heater assembly. The housing can also include a first inlet, a first outlet, a second outlet configured with an open position and a closed position, and a first valve configured to open and close the second outlet. A first actuation member having an end located within the second fuel hook-up and having a first position and a second position can be configured such that connecting a fuel source to the heater assembly at the second fuel hook-up moves the actuation member from the first position to the second position which causes the first valve to open the second outlet, the second outlet being in fluid communication with the second fuel hook-up.
The first actuation member can be further configured such that connecting the fuel source to the heater assembly at the second fuel hook-up moves the first actuation member from the first position to the second position which causes the at least one pressure regulator to move from a first position to a second position, wherein the at least one pressure regulator in the second position is configured to regulate a fuel flow of the second fuel type within a predetermined range.
The at least one pressure regulator can comprises first and second pressure regulators, the first pressure regulator being in fluid communication with the first fuel hook-up and the second pressure regulator being in fluid communication with the second fuel hook-up.
Similarly, the first valve can be configured to open and close both the first and second outlets or there can be a second valve configured to open and close the first outlet. The housing may include addition, inlets, outlets and valves. Also a second actuation member may be used positioned within the first fuel hook-up.
Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. In addition, while a number of variations of the invention have been shown and described in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope of this invention, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this disclosure. It is also contemplated that various combinations or sub-combinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, it should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed invention. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.
Similarly, this method of disclosure, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that any claim require more features than are expressly recited in that claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in a combination of fewer than all features of any single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment.
Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application, are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57. This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Appl. Nos. 61/748,071 (PROCUSA.091PR1), filed Dec. 31, 2012, 61/748,074 (PROCUSA.091PR2), filed Jan. 1, 2013, and 61/748,078 (PROCUSA.091PR3), filed Jan. 1, 2013. This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/311,402 (PROCUSA.091A), filed Dec. 5, 2011. The entire contents of all of the above applications are hereby incorporated by reference and made a part of this specification.
Number | Date | Country | |
---|---|---|---|
61748071 | Dec 2012 | US | |
61748074 | Jan 2013 | US | |
61748078 | Jan 2013 | US |