Method and apparatus for detecting a burner flame of a gas appliance

Abstract

An apparatus for detecting the presence of a burner flame of a gas appliance includes a detection element for optically detecting the burner flame. The detection element is positioned adjacent to a location of the burner flame. The apparatus additionally includes a display element positioned remotely from the detection element. The display element is operative in a first mode to indicate the presence of a burner flame and a second mode to indicate the absence of a burner flame. The apparatus further includes a transmission element connecting the detection element and the display element. The transmission element causes the display element to operate in the first mode when the detection element optically detects the burner flame.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 471,009 filed May 16, 2003 which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for detecting a burner flame of an appliance. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for detecting a flame of an appliance that incorporate a fiber optic element for transmission. More specifically, but without restriction to the particular embodiment and / or use which is shown and described for purposes of illustration, the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for detecting a flame of an appliance, such as an absorption refrigerator, that use a fiber optic element with light filters, light shields, and cable sheathing with indeces which can be designed and optimized for different appliances and applications. BACKGROUND OF THE...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009] The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for detecting a burner flame of a gas appliance. More particularly, the present invention is directed to a simple, economical and reliable apparatus for detecting a burner flame of a gas appliance and a related method. In one particular application, the apparatus for detecting the presence of a burner flame of a gas appliance includes a detection element for optically detecting the burner flame. The detection element is positioned adjacent to a location of the burner flame. The apparatus additionally includes a display element positioned remotely from the detection element. The display element is operative in a first mode to indicate the presence of a burner flame and a second mode to indicate the absence of a burner flame. The apparatus further includes a transmission element connecting the detection element and the display element. The transmission element causes the display element to operate in the first mode when the detection element optically detects the burner flame.

[0010] In another particular application, the apparatus for detecting a burner flame of the present invention emits a controlled amount of light, thereby making it suitable for various applications, such as for use in close proximity to the sleeping area of a recreational vehicle. The teachings of the present invention may also be employed to customize a flame detection output for other applications.

Problems solved by technology

Unfortunately, the required electronics for electronic flame monitors add complexity and expense to the gas appliance while decreasing reliability and requiring electric power for operation.

Such access holes significantly limit the vantage points from which the presence of the burner flame may be confirmed.

Accordingly, access to the burner flame is often inconvenient, impractical or even impossible.

While many prepared camp sites in parks and commercial campgrounds provide for electrical outlets, many do not.

In the case of an absorption refrigerator, a loss of flame results in a corresponding loss of refrigeration and a potential loss of the refrigerator contents.

Otherwise, the occupants may be unable to sleep or may loose their night vision upon waking.

The latter is disturbing because part of the enjoyment of camping involves appreciation of the brilliant night skies at remote camping sites.

Upon waking and loosing night vision due to uncontrolled light sources, an occupant desiring to access these permanent facilities may potentially stumble upon exiting the vehicle.

Thus, uncontrolled light sources may be inconvenient, or worst yet, hazardous for the occupants.

Since the prior art flame detectors function to maximize emitted light, they pose a potential hazard to the users of certain gas appliances, including but not limited to absorption refrigerators.

Inspection through an access hole is often impractical or unconventional.

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