WO2017218804A1

WO2017218804A1 - Vent-free heater with environmental sensor

Info

Publication number: WO2017218804A1
Application number: PCT/US2017/037722
Authority: WO
Inventors: Brian VANDRAK; Michael Mullins
Original assignee: Enerco Group, Inc.
Priority date: 2016-06-15
Filing date: 2017-06-15
Publication date: 2017-12-21
Also published as: US20170363327A1

Abstract

One or more techniques and/or systems are disclosed for a vent-free heater that may be installed in an area used for human occupancy, to provide heat to that area. Such a heater can comprise an environmental detector that senses ambient air conditions, and may provide data used to shut down the heater in predetermined threshold condition. In one implementation, a vent-free heater for installation in high altitudes can comprise a combustion region and a fuel supply component. The heater can comprise an environmental detector with a flameless sensor configured to detect an ambient level of a constituent of the atmosphere and generate a signal indicative of the constituent level; and a sensor interface that can control flow of fuel from the fuel supply, based at least upon a signal received from the sensor.

Description

VENT-FREE HEATER WITH ENVIRONMENTAL SENSOR

RELATED DOCUMENTS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/350,401, filed June 15, 2016, and titled VENT-FREE HEATER WITH ENVIRONMENTAL SENSOR, which is incorporated in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Vent-free heaters can be used in a variety of locations, but are often used in indoor environments. These types of heaters are sometimes called flueless, non-flued, or unvented heaters, because a vent to the outside, such as a chimney, is not typically used. The heater typically utilizes propane or natural gas as a fuel, which is combusted in a combustion chamber comprised in the heater's housing. The housing often comprises an inlet for supplying ambient air to the combustion chamber, where a mixture of fuel and air is introduced for combustion, to provide heat. If operating correctly, the main emissions of a vent-free heater are typically water vapor, carbon dioxide and nitrogen dioxide.

SUMMARY

[0003] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key factors or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0004] As provided herein, a vent-free heater that may be installed in an area used for human occupancy, to provide heat to that area. Such a heater can comprise an environmental detector that senses ambient air conditions, and may provide data used to shut down the heater's combustion at predetermined threshold conditions (e.g., potentially undesired conditions for heater operation). That is, for example, a flameless carbon dioxide and/or carbon monoxide detector may detect a threshold condition and provide a signal that results in shutting off fuel used for combustion. [0005] In one implementation, a vent-free heater for installation and use in high altitudes can comprise a combustion region configured for fuel combustion. In this implementation, a fuel supply component can be configured to supply fuel to the combustion region. Further, the heater can comprise an environmental detector. The environmental detector can comprise a flameless sensor that can detect an ambient level of a constituent of the atmosphere and may generate a signal indicative of the ambient level of the constituent. Additionally, the environmental detector can comprise a sensor interface that may control at least a portion of the fuel supply component that allows for provision of fuel to the combustion region, based at least upon the signal from the sensor.

[0006] To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, the following description and annexed drawings set forth certain illustrative aspects and implementations. These are indicative of but a few of the various ways in which one or more aspects may be employed. Other aspects, advantages and novel features of the disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the annexed drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] What is disclosed herein may take physical form in certain parts and arrangement of parts, and will be described in detail in this specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof and wherein:

[0008] FIGURE 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example implementation of an exemplary heater.

[0009] FIGURE 2 is a component diagram illustrating an example implementation of one or more portions of one or more components described herein.

[0010] FIGURE 3 is a component diagram illustrating an example implementation of one or more portions of one or more components described herein.

[0011] FIGURE 4 is a component diagram illustrating an example implementation of one or more portions of one or more components described herein.

[0012] FIGURE 5 is an illustration depicting an example implementation of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. [0013] FIGURE 6 is an illustration depicting an example implementation of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein.

[0014] FIGURE 7 is an illustration depicting an example implementation of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein.

[0015] FIGURE 8 is an illustration depicting an example implementation of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] The claimed subject matter is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are generally used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. It may be evident, however, that the claimed subject matter may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, structures and devices may be shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate describing the claimed subject matter.

[0017] A heater may be devised to provide for vent-free installation in an area intended for occupancy, to provide heat to that area. In one aspect, the heater can have an environmental detector that detects one or more environmental conditions; and, based on a desired threshold for respective environmental conditions, the heater may generate a resulting signal. Further in this aspect, the signal can be used by a coupled sensor interface to identify a threshold (e.g., potentially undesired) condition (e.g., undesired for heater operation) in the area. When a threshold condition is identified, an alert condition may be activated, and one or more systems in the heater can be shut down to mitigate current or future combustion of fuels.

[0018] FIGURE 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example implementation of an exemplary heater 100, in accordance with one or more systems described herein. In this implementation, in this aspect, the heater 100 can comprise a combustion region 102. The combustion region 102 can comprise a region of the heater where combustion of fuel and/or a fuel-air mixture takes place (hereinafter, "fuel" may comprise an actual fuel, such as propane, natural gas, butane, kerosene, and/or other suitable fuel, or may comprise a fuel-air mixture; the meaning can be interchangeable). For example, the combustion region may comprise a surface area that is made up of one or more burner tiles or a multi-ply screen that define a plurality of small openings, and permit the fuel to pass through. In this example, the surface can comprise an area of combustion for the fuel that passes through. As another example, the combustion region may comprise a burner tube comprising a plurality of passages or vias that allow passage of fuel therethrough to the combustion region.

[0019] In this implementation, fuel may be provided to the combustion region 102 using a fuel supply component 104. The fuel supply component 104, for example, can comprise a fuel source 120 and a fuel supply valve 122. For example, a fuel source 120 can comprise one of a variety of fuel sources, such as a utility supply connection from a natural gas supplier, or from a variety of propane (e.g., liquefied petroleum or liquid propane, LP) sources, such as a propane tank (e.g., of a variety of gallon sizes), cylinder tanks (e.g., ranging from five to four-hundred and twenty pound sizes) or bottles (e.g., butane canisters or one pound bottles). In one implementation, the fuel source 120 may be disposed outside of a housing 150 that can comprise various components of the heater. In another implementation, the fuel source 120 may be disposed (e.g., at least partially) in the housing 150.

[0020] In certain implementations, the fuel source 120 can comprise a fuel canister, tank or bottle that may be secured in, or partially enclosed by, the housing 150. As an example, the fuel source 120 may be a removable fuel canister or tank that can be replaced with a new tank, or removed, refilled, and re-installed in the housing. In certain implementations, the fuel source 120 can comprise a larger tank (e.g., or similar canister). As an example, a large fuel tank may be connected to the heater by a length of hose (e.g., or tubing or piping) so that the tank can be located apart from the heated region (e.g., remotely). For example, a hose connected fuel tank can be positioned outside the target heating area, while the heater may be located within the area of occupancy.

[0021] The fuel supply valve 122 can be configured to control fluid communication between the fuel source 120 and the combustion region 102. The fuel supply valve 122 can be configured to be disposed in a default closed position (e.g., normally closed). That is, for example, unless purposefully acted upon, the fuel supply valve 122 may be disposed in the closed position, thereby effectively closing fluid communication between the fuel source 120 and the combustion region 102. In one implementation, the fuel supply valve 122 can be acted upon, resulting in an open position, in the presence of an appropriate open valve signal, indicative of appropriate conditions for operation of an open fuel supply valve 122. In this implementation, in the absence of the open valve signal, the fuel supply valve 122 can default to the closed position. In one implementation, the fuel supply valve 122 can comprise an electrically operated valve, such as an electromagnetically operated valve, for example. In this example, when electrical power is supplied to the valve, an electromagnet is activated, resulting in the valve opening to allow fluid communication. Further, in this example, when electrical power is interrupted or not provided the electromagnet is not activated, and the valve returns to (e.g., or remains in) its default, closed position.

[0022] The fuel supply component 104 can comprise fuel supply lines (e.g., hoses, piping, tubing) that can be used to fluidly couple various parts of the fuel supply component 104. In one implementation, the fuel supply component 104 may comprise a combustion chamber that is fluidly coupled with the combustion region 102. In this implementation, for example, the combustion chamber can be disposed adjacent to the combustion region 102, in fluid

communication. In this example, the combustion chamber can receive fuel from the fuel source 120, via a fuel supply line, and distribute the fuel to the combustion region 102. For example, the combustion chamber may be disposed at a rear side of a combustion surface, and fuel from the chamber can pass to a front side (e.g., a site of combustion) of the combustion surface through one or more diffusing holes.

[0023] In one implementation, the fuel source 120 can be fluidly coupled with a regulator to regulate fuel pressure to operable levels, for example. Alternately, a regulated fuel supply (e.g., to eleven column inches of water) may be supplied from a self-contained system, such as in a recreational vehicle, or a quick-coupler hose connection may be used, and may incorporate positive fuel shut-off in both male and female connection components to prevent fuel escape when disconnected.

[0024] In one implementation, a burner venturi can be disposed in the fuel supply component, for example, within the housing, such as between the supply valve 122 and the combustion region 102. In this implementation, the venturi can be configured to mix atmospheric air (e.g., comprising oxygen) with a fuel for combustion. For example, a burner venturi can comprise a hollow, generally cylindrical body with a tapered mouth, having a greater diameter than the body. As one example, the burner venturi can be disposed at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the heater. A fuel supplying orifice, fluidly coupled with the fuel source 120, can be disposed proximate the mouth of the burner venturi, and supply fuel to the venturi. In this example, the Venturi effect may draw ambient air into the venturi to mix with the fuel.

[0025] Further, in one implementation, the combustion region 102 can comprise a generally planar radiant surface disposed within the housing. In some implementations, the combustion region may be disposed outside of the housing, for example, and can comprise a radiant surface outside of the housing. In some implementations, the radiant surface may be disposed at an angle relative to a face (e.g., front, top, side) of the heater. For example, the top of the front face of the radiant surface may be tilted backward with respect to the front face of the heater. Further, in some implementations, a rear face of the radiant surface may be disposed in communication with the combustion chamber. In this implementation, the combustion chamber (e.g., plenum chamber, burner plenum chamber) can receive fuel from the venturi, and the fuel can be distributed over and through a rear face of the radiant surface. Thus, in one implementation of operation, an orifice, engaged with the fuel source 120, can be opened to release fuel into the mouth of the venturi. In one implementation, a regulator can be fluidly coupled with the orifice and can be configured to regulate (e.g., reduce or increase) a delivery pressure of the fuel from the fuel source 120 (e.g., to eleven inches of water column in one stage).

[0026] In one implementation, the combustion region 102 can comprise a blue-flame type burner component, which can be disposed within the housing (e.g., within the outer surface of the housing), or outside of the housing. In this implementation, the blue-flame type burner component can comprise a burner tube that is configured to emit the fuel, such that it can be combusted and produce a flame (e.g., blue flame), generated in the combustion region 102. As an example, a blue flame type burner component may comprise a tube with a series of holes or vias for emitting the fuel for combustion. For example, this type of burner can be configured to heat the atmosphere (e.g., air), which can provide heat, or warm the air, for occupants of the area in which the heater is disposed.

[0027] As an illustrative example, a fluid flow of fuel exiting the orifice can create a type of vacuum (e.g., Venturi) effect, which may result in ambient air being drawn in through an air inlet at the venturi, and into the mouth of the venturi. In this example, the fuel and ambient air may be mixed in the venturi and combustion chamber, which can result in a more desirable combustion (e.g., complete fuel combustion), which may result in a cleaner burning, infrared (e.g., or blue flame) heating source. In this example, the mixture of air and fuel can travel (e.g., upward) through the cylindrical body of the venturi 60, where it may reach the combustion chamber. In one implementation, to mitigate release of the air-fuel mixture from the combustion chamber, or incomplete dispersal of the fuel in the combustion chamber, a baffle (e.g., non- porous baffle) can be disposed in the chamber. The baffle can be configured to direct the air-fuel mixture into communication with the rear face of the radiant surface, for example, or may facilitate dispersal of the fuel along a burner tube.

[0028] In one implementation, an ignition source 126 (e.g., piezoelectric spark generator, electric ignitor, hot wire/element, pilot, or the like) can be configured to provide an ignition source for the fuel at the combustion region 102. In this implementation, the ignition source 126 can be disposed proximate the combustion region 102, in a disposition that allows for the ignition source 126 to appropriately provide ignition to fuel the combustion region 102. As an example, an ignitor can be placed directly in front of the front face of the radiant surface, such that when fuel is dispersed through the radiant surface to its front face, the ignitor can provide a spark that ignites the fuel appropriately. It will be appreciated that any conventional igniter means for initially igniting the mixture can be utilized. Combustion of the fuel can be maintained, and may reach elevated temperatures (e.g. approximately 1200° F, or higher).

[0029] In one implementation, the exemplary heater 100 can comprise a reflector that is configured to reflect heat (e.g., infrared radiant energy) toward a front of the heater, and/or may deflect combustion products to reduce their temperature as they exit the combustion region 102. In one implementation, the reflector may extend outwardly from the top of the combustion region 102 at an angle that directs radiant energy toward the front face of the housing 150. As one example, a natural convective upward path of the combustion products can direct the combustion products into contact with the reflector. In this example, the reflector, in

combination with the directing of the radiant energy output from the heater toward the front surface of the housing, may also act as a type of deflector that can reduce the temperature of the combustion products exiting the heater. In this example, the reduction in temperature may mitigate a potential for ignition of a combustible material that has come into proximity, or in contact, with one or more portions of the heater. In one implementation, an outlet can be disposed near the top of the housing 150, which may allow warm air to mix with combustion products and exit the device after contacting the reflector. Additionally, a deflector can be disposed on the top of the front face of the housing 150, which may also reduce the temperature of the combustion products exiting the heater.

[0030] In one implementation, an air outlet opening can be disposed rearward of the outlet which is in communication with the interior of the housing. The outlet can provide a flow path for air (e.g., other than air entering the venturi) to flow between the inlet, around the rear of the combustion chamber, to the outlet, for example, exiting the housing rearward of the deflector. As an example, this outlet, in combination with the air flow path, can enhance a chimney effect as ambient air may be drawn into the housing. In this example, a portion of the incoming air may be used for combustion, and another portion may convect (e.g., upwardly) along the rear of the combustion chamber and the deflector, to exit through the outlet. The air outlet, in one implementation, can be configured to encourage air flow along the back of a hot combustion chamber, which may result in an increased velocity of air flow to the burner venturi, for example, while cooling the rear of the housing 150. In one example, as the venturi 60 is heated, thermal convection properties can direct the fuel mixture through an upwardly angled venturi 60, thereby creating a chimney -type effect. As an example, the chimney effect may increase intake of fresh air flowing into the venturi, which may allow for a reduction of outlet pressure from the fuel source 120, while burning efficiently on a high or a low settings.

[0031] In one implementation, the exemplary heater can comprise an environmental detector 106. The environmental detector 106 can comprise a flameless sensor 108 that is configured to detect an ambient level of a constituent of the atmosphere. Further, the environmental detector 106 can comprise a sensor interfacel 10 (e.g., a microprocessor) that is configured to facilitate shut off of the fuel supply from the fuel supply component 104, based at least upon a signal received from the sensor 108. Prior detectors (e.g., oxygen depletion sensors (ODS)) utilize a flame coupled with a temperature sensor to detect levels of environmental constituents, such as oxygen and carbon dioxide. In this implementation, the sensor 108 does not utilize a sensor- based flame to detect the targeted constituents. [0032] In one implementation, the sensor 108 may be disposed internally in the housing 150, for example, to mitigate exposure to potential elevated heat levels, dirt, dust and debris, and other contaminants that may affect sensor operation or function. Further, as an example, using a flameless sensor may provide for more effective operation at elevated altitudes. That is, for example, while an overall ratio (e.g., percentages relative to each other) of ambient air constituents (e.g., oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, others) remain substantially consistent as one moves to higher elevations, an amount of respective available constituents per measured volume decreases. Therefore, for example, a flame operated detector may operate appropriately at sea-level, as the amount of available oxygen is sufficient to maintain an effective flame.

However, in this example, the same flame operated detector may not operate as effectively at a higher elevation due to the reduced amount of available oxygen. Further, detectors utilizing a flame are subject to possible extinguishing of the flame in windy conditions.

[0033] In one aspect, the sensor may be configured to detect carbon dioxide in the ambient air. In one implementation, a sensor operable to detect carbon dioxide can comprise a chemical- based sensor to identify desired threshold levels of carbon dioxide. In this implementation, for example, a chemical-based carbon dioxide gas can comprise a sensitive layer comprising a sensitive polymer, heteropolysiloxane, or other carbon dioxide sensitive material. In this example, a characteristic physical change in the sensor occurs (e.g., change in resistance) at a threshold level and this variation can be signaled by an integrated transducer that generates the output signal. While chemical -based gas sensors are typically low cost, and have low power consumption, they may also have a shorter, useful life-span, due to short term and long term drift effects, where the zero point of the sensor can move out of calibration.

[0034] In another implementation, the sensor operable to detect carbon dioxide can comprise an infrared-based sensor to identify a desired threshold level of carbon dioxide. In this implementation, for example, the infrared-based sensor can comprise a nondispersive infrared ( DIR) sensor that uses infrared energy passed through a sampling area comprising the ambient air to identify levels of carbon dioxide. In this example, an infrared-based sensor can comprise an infrared source, a sampling area (e.g., light tube), a wavelength filter, and an infrared detector. As an example, ambient air can diffuse into the sampling area and infrared energy passed through the sampling area (e.g., and filter) can be detected by the detector. Further, the detector can measure the absorption of the characteristic wavelength of the energy to identify the carbon dioxide levels in the ambient air.

[0035] In one implementation, the sensor can provide a signal that is indicative of a level of the constituent (e.g., carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, oxygen, nitrogen, others). In another implementation, the sensor may be monitored to identify a condition that is indicative of a detected constituent level. That is, for example, periodically (e.g., or continually), the sensor can be polled for information regarding the detected level of a desired ambient air constituent, such as carbon dioxide. In this example, in response to the poll request, the sensor can provide a signal (e.g., data) that is indicative of the level of the desired constituent. In another

implementation, the signal provided by the sensor (e.g., whether in response to a poll request, or systematically provided by the sensor) may merely comprise an indication that the level of the target ambient air constituent has reached a desired, pre-determined threshold level (e.g., one that is indicative of a potentially undesirous ambient air condition). In another implementation, the signal provided by the sensor may merely be indicative of a level of the target constituent in the ambient air, for example, and a determination may be made to identify whether the detected level has reached the threshold.

[0036] In one aspect, the percentages of respective typical constituents (e.g., oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, argon, others) in ambient air remain relatively the same at various altitudes; however, an actual available amount of respective constituents (e.g., in parts per million (PPM)) can change as elevation from sea-level increases. This change in available amount, or concentration, is due to the drop in atmospheric pressure as elevation increases, which allows for a more dispersed atmosphere. In one implementation, in this aspect, the environmental detector 106 (e.g., the sensor 108 and/or the sensor interface 110) can be configured to self-correct, or self-adjust, to respective elevations, for example, such that a reading at sea-level will be substantially (e.g., within a desirable margin of error) equivalent to a reading at ten-thousand feet above sea-level. As an example, a carbon dioxide detector may be configured to correct to a typical fresh air level of C02 (e.g., 400 PPM) at respective elevations, when exposed to the ambient air for a sufficient time. As one example, such a sensor may utilize the artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm to self-correct at respective elevations. [0037] In one aspect, the environmental detector 106 can be operably coupled with the fuel supply component 104, such that the fuel supply component 104 is operative to respond to a signal from the environmental detector 106. In this aspect, the fuel supply component 104 can be configured to provide fuel to the combustion region 102 based at least upon the signal received from the environmental detector 106. In one implementation, a default position for the fuel supply component 104 can comprise a closed, or non-fuel supplied position. That is, for example, in the absence of a signal from the environmental detector 106, the fuel supply component 104 would be disposed in the default, or closed position; and, fuel is not provided to the combustion region 102. In another implementation, the fuel supply component 104 may be operating in the open position, supplying fuel to the combustion region 102; and, upon receiving a signal from the environmental detector 106, the fuel supply component 104 switches to a closed position.

[0038] In one implementation, in this aspect, the signal received by the fuel supply component 104 may be provided by the sensor interface 110, and may be a result of one or more of: an indication that the sensor interface is functioning within designed parameters, the sensor is functioning within designed parameters, an appropriate amount of power is being provided, environmental constituents are within desired parameters, and one or more other portions of the heater are functioning within their design parameters. In this implementation, for example, as long as the sensor interface receives indications that systems of the heater are functioning according to designed parameters, the sensor interface can provide the signal to the fuel supply component 104 that allows it to be disposed in the open, or fuel supply position. As another example, if one of the monitored systems deviates for the desired parameters, or thresholds, the sensor interface may cease providing the signal for the fuel supply component 104 (e.g., and may enter and alarm state). In this example, in the absence of the signal from the sensor interface 110, the fuel supply component may switch to the closed or non-fuel supply position.

[0039] In one implementation, the sensor 108 may provide a sensor signal to the sensor interface 110 (e.g., or the sensor interface may poll the sensor for the sensor signal), that is indicative of the level of a monitored air constituent, such as carbon dioxide. In this one implementation, the signal may comprise an indication of a transistor voltage level. Further, in this implementation, the sensor interface 110 may be configured to monitor the transistor voltage level, at least until it reaches a predetermined first threshold. For example, the first threshold may comprise a level of the constituent that is indicative of a threshold condition (e.g., potentially undesired environment for heater operation), for operating the heater. In this implementation, for example, the sensor interface 110 may initiate an alarm state upon the transistor voltage level reaching the predetermined first threshold; which may result in a shutting off of at least a portion of the fuel supply component 104. In one implementation, the shutting off of at least a portion of the fuel supply component 104 can comprise opening an electrical power supplying circuit to a fuel supply valve 122 disposed in the fuel supply component 104, resulting in a shutting off of fuel to the combustion region 102.

[0040] In one implementation, the environmental detector 106 (e.g., using the sensor interface 110) can be configured to identify an ambient level of oxygen based at least upon the ambient level of carbon dioxide. In this implementation, the ambient level of oxygen can be inversely proportional to the ambient level of carbon dioxide. That is, for example, the sensor 108 can be configured to detect a level of carbon dioxide in the ambient air. Further, in this example, as the level of carbon dioxide increases in the ambient air, the level of oxygen may be decreasing, in an inversely proportional relationship. A normal level of the constituents of the atmosphere is well known (e.g., approximately 21% oxygen and 0.04% carbon dioxide, 78% nitrogen, and less than 1% argon), and oxygen can be consumed (e.g., through respiration and/or combustion) while carbon dioxide is produced (e.g., resulting from respiration and/or combustion). Therefore, during heater operation (e.g., combustion) oxygen content can decrease in an inversely proportional relation to an increase in carbon dioxide levels. As a result, for example, an approximate level of oxygen content in the ambient atmosphere may be determined from the detected level of carbon dioxide.

[0041] In one implementation, the determined level of oxygen content may be compared against a threshold value, for example, where the threshold value is indicative of a desired level for occupancy of the target area (e.g., where the heater is operating). That is, for example, if it is determined (e.g., by a processor, such as the sensor interface 110, comprising a microprocessor) that the level of oxygen is approximately eighteen percent (18%) of the ambient atmosphere, the environmental detector may initiate a shut off state. In this example, the shut off state may result in cessation of the heater operation, and/or an alert to occupants (e.g., an audio and/or visual indicator). Further in this example, cessation of the heater operation can comprise one or more of: shutting of fluid communication of the fuel source 120 to the combustion region 102 (e.g., using the supply valve 122); shutting off operation of the ignition source 126 (e.g., opening a power circuit, and/or disabling ignition source 126); and disabling other heater operations.

[0042] In one implementation, the sensor interface 110 can be configured to reset the shut off state merely after the ambient level of the target constituent reaches a second threshold level. In this implementation, the second threshold level comprises a level of the constituent that is lower than that of the first threshold level. For example, a first threshold for carbon dioxide may be two-percent (2.0%), and the second threshold may be point zero-eight percent (0.08%); and a first threshold for oxygen may be eighteen point five percent (18.5%), and the second threshold may be twenty point five percent (20.5%). Further, other contaminant air constituents may be identified and monitored, such as carbon monoxide. As an example, a first threshold level of carbon monoxide may comprise point zero one percent (0.01%) (e.g., one-hundred parts per million (PPM)), and a second threshold level may comprise five (5) PPM.

[0043] In one implementation, the first threshold level and second threshold level can be set using a firmware adjustment (e.g., software update) for the sensor interface. That is, for example, processors such as a microprocessor used for environmental constituent detection, can be programmed using firmware (e.g., programming disposed on hardware). For example, firmware is a type of software, program or set of instructions programmed on a hardware device, to provide control, communication, monitoring and data analysis and/or manipulation of the hardware. In this example, installed firmware can set the predetermined threshold levels that may activate an alarm condition, and reset the sensor interface and/or sensor after and alarm state is identified.

[0044] In one implementation, as illustrated in FIGURE 1, the exemplary heater may comprise a power source 124 (e.g., electrical power supply). The power source 124 can comprise one or more of: an electrical supply provided by an electrical outlet 130 coupled with a plugged in cord; an on-board battery 132; and an on-board thermoelectric generator 134. In one implementation, the sensor interface 110 can be configured to merely receive the signal from the sensor (e.g., or poll the sensor for the signal) at predetermined intervals. As an example, the predetermined intervals can be configured to mitigate use of electrical power. For example, when the heater is operating under conditions that may limit an amount of electrical power available, such as under battery power or thermoelectric generation only, activating the sensor interface to process detection signals periodically may provide for power savings; thereby allowing for longer operation under low power conditions.

[0045] In one implementation, the fuel source 120 from the fuel supply component 104 can be disposed in a shut off condition at least until a signal from the sensor interface 110 closes an electrical power circuit to the fuel supply component 104. That is, when the electrical circuit is closed, electrical power can be provided to the supply valve 122, thereby allowing an

electromagnetically (e.g., or other electrically) operated valve to open to allow fluid coupling between the fuel source 120 in the fuel supply component 104, and the combustion region 102. In this way, for example, fuel may not be provided to the combustion region 102 until the valve is opened by the signal.

[0046] In one implementation, after electrical power is interrupted to the heater (e.g., power outage, cord is unplugged, battery loses power, malfunction, etc.), the heater can be configured to start-up in an alert state upon re-start of the electrical power. That is, for example, if power is lost to the sensor interface 110, upon restoration of power to the sensor interface 110, it can start in the alert state (e.g., a shut off condition), at least until the sensor detects that one or more constituents in the ambient atmosphere are within the desired thresholds. In this example, upon the sensor identifying that the ambient atmosphere is in a desired condition, the sensor interface 110 can reset the alert condition. In one implementation, the heater can be configured to prevent ignition of fuel when one or more of the sensor 108 and the sensor interface 110 are

malfunctioning or disconnected. That is, for example, if the fuel supply valve 122 is not receiving the appropriate valve open signal from the sensor interface 110, the fuel source 120 cannot be operably (e.g., fluidly) coupled with the combustion region 102. Further, as an example, if the sensor interface 110 does not detect an operational sensor 108 present (e.g., malfunctioning or removed), it may not provide the valve open signal to the supply valve 122.

[0047] In one implementation, the environmental detector 106 can be disposed in a location in the heater 100 that comprises a temperature range between about one-hundred and five degrees Fahrenheit (e.g., approximately 40.5 degrees Celsius) and about negative six degrees Fahrenheit (e.g., approximately minus 21.1 degrees Celsius) during operation. That is, for example, the sensor 108 and/or sensor interface 110 may have desired operational parameters for temperature, accounting for preferred operation of the components. In this implementation, a location in the heater can be identified, where the operating temperature remains within the target parameters. In one example, such a location may be disposed distally from the

combustion region 102, and/or may comprise one or more air vents, and/or an air flow (e.g., created by a fan). In one implementation, the sensor 108 and sensor interface 110 can be disposed on a same integrated circuit or printed circuit board (PCB); or may be disposed as separate components, and communicatively coupled (e.g., wired or wirelessly).

[0048] FIGURES 2, 3, and 4 are component diagrams illustrating an example implementation 200 of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. In one implementation, an example heater 200 can comprise housing 250 that can be configured to house the components of the heater 200. Further, the heater 200 can comprise a combustion region 202, which may also comprise a combustion chamber 252 (e.g., or combustion tube) and a radiant heating surface 254. Additionally, the heater 200 can comprise a fuel supply component 204, comprising a supply valve 222 and a fuel source (not shown). An environmental detector 206 can comprise a sensor 208 and a sensor interface 210 (e.g., comprising a microprocessor). The environmental detector 206 may be disposed in a detector location 256, such that the detector 206 can operate within desired temperature parameters. An ignition source 228 can be disposed proximate the combustion region 202. A set of one or more heater controls 258 can be disposed in a user accessible location on the housing 250, and may be used to operate the heater. The heater 200 can also comprise a power source 224, which may comprise an electrical cord 260 that can be coupled with an electrical power outlet (not shown).

[0049] FIGURES 5, 6, 7 and 8 are illustrations depicting an example implementation 500 of one or more portions of one or more systems described herein. In this example implementation, a heater can comprise heater housing 550 configured to house the components of the heater 500. The heater 500 can comprise a combustion region 502, comprising a radiant heating surface 554. An ignition source may be disposed proximate the combustion region 502, at the radiant heating surface 554. In this implementation, a sensor 508 and sensor interface 510 are displayed outside of the heater 500, for illustrative purposes, to illustrate possible connections between the various systems. Additionally, in this implementation, a power source 524 can be operably coupled with the sensor interface 510 and/or the sensor 508. [0050] In one aspect, a method for manufacturing a vent-free heater may be devised. In one implementation of a method of manufacturing a vent-free heater for installation and use in higher altitudes, a combustion region can be installed in a heater, where the combustion region may be configured for fuel combustion, such as propane, natural gas, butane, kerosene, or some other suitable fuel (e.g., of fuel-air mixture). Further, a fuel supply component can be installed in operable engagement with the combustion region. The fuel supply component can be configured to supply fuel to the combustion region. Additionally, an environmental detector can be installed in the heater. In this implementation, the environmental detector can comprise a flameless sensor that is configured to detect an ambient level of a constituent or contaminant of/in the atmosphere, such as oxygen, carbon dioxide, or contaminants (e.g., carbon monoxide). The environmental detector can also comprise a sensor interface, such as a microprocessor, which is configured to facilitate shutting off the fuel supply from the fuel supply component, based at least upon a signal received from the sensor.

[0051] In another aspect, a method of using a vent-free heater can be devised. In one implementation of a method of using a vent-free heater for installation and use in high altitudes, fuel can be provided to a fuel supply component that is in operable engagement with a combustion region. Providing the fuel can result in the fuel supply component supplying fuel to the combustion region, such as for combustion. Further, fuel can be combusted in the combustion region, such as by using an ignition source. Additionally, power can be provided to an environmental detector disposed in the heater. In this implementation, the environmental detector can comprise a flameless sensor that is configured to detect an ambient level of a constituent or contaminant of/in the atmosphere. The environmental detector can also comprise a sensor interface that is configured to facilitate shutting off the fuel supply from the fuel supply component based at least upon a signal received from the sensor.

[0052] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as advantageous over other aspects or designs. Rather, use of the word exemplary is intended to present concepts in a concrete fashion. As used in this application, the term "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or." That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from context, "X employs A or B" is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, then "X employs A or B" is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances. Further, at least one of A and B and/or the like generally means A or B or both A and B. In addition, the articles "a" and "an" as used in this application and the appended claims may generally be construed to mean "one or more" unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form.

[0053] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above.

Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims. Reference throughout this specification to "one implementation" or "an implementation" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the implementation is included in at least one implementation. Thus, the appearances of the phrases "in one implementation" or "in an implementation" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same implementation.

Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more implementations. Of course, those skilled in the art will recognize many modifications may be made to this configuration without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed subject matter.

[0054] Also, although the disclosure has been shown and described with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art based upon a reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings. The disclosure includes all such modifications and alterations and is limited only by the scope of the following claims. In particular regard to the various functions performed by the above described components (e.g., elements, resources, etc.), the terms used to describe such components are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which performs the specified function of the described component (e.g., that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function in the herein illustrated exemplary implementations of the disclosure.

[0055] In addition, while a particular feature of the disclosure may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms "includes," "having," "has," "with," or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising."

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A vent-free heater for installation in high altitudes, comprising: a combustion region configured for fuel combustion; a fuel supply component to supply fuel to the combustion region; and an environmental detector comprising: a flameless sensor to detect an ambient level of a constituent of the atmosphere and generate a signal indicative of the ambient level of the constituent; and a sensor interface to control at least a portion of the fuel supply component that allows for provision of fuel to the combustion region, based at least upon the signal from the sensor.

2. The heater of claim 1, the sensor further to detect an ambient level of carbon dioxide.

3. The heater of claim 2, the sensor interface further to identify an ambient level of oxygen based at least upon the ambient level of carbon dioxide, where the ambient level of oxygen is inversely proportional to the ambient level of carbon dioxide.

4. The heater of claim 1, the sensor comprising an infrared sensor to detect the level of the constituent based on an amount of light reaching an infrared detector.

5. The heater of claim 1, the signal from the sensor comprising an indication of a transistor voltage level.

6. The heater of claim 5, the sensor interface further to shut off the fuel supply component based at least upon the voltage level reaching a predetermined first threshold level.

7. The heater of claim 1, the sensor interface further: to receive the signal from the sensor; to identify that the signal level reaches a predetermined first threshold level; to activate a shut off state; and to open an electrical power supplying circuit to a fuel supply valve disposed in the fuel supply component, resulting in a shut off of fuel to the combustion region.

8. The heater of claim 7, the sensor interface further to reset the shut off state merely after the ambient level of the constituent reaches a second threshold level, the second threshold level different than the first threshold level.

9. The heater of claim 8, the first threshold level and second threshold level set using a firmware adjustment for the sensor interface.

10. The heater of claim 1, the fuel supply component comprising a fuel valve, comprising an electromagnetically operated valve that is merely disposed in an open position under electrical power, and disposed in a closed position in the absence of electrical power.

11. The heater of claim 1, the sensor interface merely receiving the signal from sensor at predetermined intervals, the predetermined intervals mitigating use of electrical power.

12. The heater of claim 1, the environmental detector disposed in a location in the heater that comprises a temperature range between one-hundred and five degrees Fahrenheit and negative six degrees Fahrenheit during operation.

13. The heater of claim 1, a fuel source from the fuel supply component disposed in a shut off condition at least until a signal from the sensor interface closes an electrical power circuit to the fuel supply component.

14. The heater of claim 1, preventing ignition of fuel when one or more of the sensor and the sensor interface are malfunctioning or disconnected.

15. The heater of claim 1, comprising a power supply, the power supply comprising one or more of: an electrical supply provided by an outlet coupled with a plugged in cord; an on-board battery; and an on-board thermoelectric generator.

16. The heater of claim 1, starting in an alert state upon an electrical start-up, after electrical power is interrupted.

17. The heater of claim 1, comprising an alerting component to alert a user of an alert condition, the alert comprising one or more of: a visual alert; and an audio alert.

18. The heater of claim 1, to be installed in a fixed configuration in a place of occupancy.

19. A method of manufacturing a vent-free heater for installation in high altitudes, comprising: installing a combustion region in a heater, the combustion region configured for fuel combustion; installing a fuel supply component in operable engagement with the combustion region, the fuel supply component to supply fuel to the combustion region; and installing an environmental detector in the heater, the environmental detector comprising: a flameless sensor to detect an ambient level of a constituent of the atmosphere and generates a signal indicative of the ambient level of the constituent; and a sensor interface to control at least a portion of the fuel supply component that allows for provision of fuel to the combustion region, based at least upon the signal from the sensor.

20. A method of using a vent-free heater for installation in high altitudes, comprising: providing fuel to a fuel supply component in operable engagement with a combustion region, resulting in the fuel supply component supplying fuel to the combustion region; causing fuel to be combusted in the combustion region; and providing power to an environmental detector disposed in the heater, the environmental detector comprising: a flameless sensor to detect an ambient level of a constituent of the atmosphere and generates a signal indicative of the ambient level of the constituent; and a sensor interface to control at least a portion of the fuel supply component that allows for provision of fuel to the combustion region, based at least upon the signal from the sensor.