US20160161146A1

Movatterモバイル変換

Info

Publication number: US20160161146A1
Application number: US14/920,822
Authority: US
Inventors: David Deng
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2011-10-20
Filing date: 2015-10-22
Publication date: 2016-06-09

Abstract

A heater assembly can be used with a gas appliance. The gas appliance can be a dual fuel appliance for use 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, and a second fuel hook-up for connecting the second fuel type to the heater assembly. The actuation member can control a flow through the heater assembly based on whether the first or the second fuel hook-up is used.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

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 is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/791530, filed Mar. 8, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,170,016, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Appl. Nos. 61/748071 (PROCUSA.091PR1), filed Dec. 31, 2012, 61/748074 (PROCUSA.091PR2), filed Jan. 1, 2013, and 61/748078 (PROCUSA.091PR3), filed Jan. 1, 2013. application Ser. No. 13/791530 also claims priority to Chinese Pat. Appl. Nos. 201220418089.X and 201210300273.9, both filed Aug. 22, 2012 titled Dual Fuel Regulator with Automatic Pilot Selection, and Chinese Pat. Appl. Nos. 201210337908.2 and 201220465982.8, both filed Sep. 13, 2012 titled No Step Dual Fuel Heating Control System. This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/311,402 (PROCUSA.091A), filed Dec. 5, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,915,239. All of the above applications are hereby incorporated by reference and should be considered a part of this specification.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

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.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

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 be configured for use with one of a first fuel type or a second fuel type different than the first. The heater assembly can comprise a housing, a first actuation member and a second actuation member. The housing can have a first fuel hook-up for connecting a first fuel type to the heater assembly, a second hook-up for connecting a second fuel type to the heater assembly, a first outlet in fluid communication with both the first and second fuel hook-ups, a first inlet, a second outlet, and a third outlet. The first actuation member can have an end located within the first fuel hook-up and having a first actuation member first position and a second position, the actuation member configured such that connecting a fuel source to the heater assembly at the first fuel hook-up moves the actuation member from the first actuation member first position to the second position. In the first actuation member first position, fuel flow through the first fuel hook-up and the second outlet is prevented. In the first actuation member second position, fuel flow through the first fuel hook-up and the second outlet is permitted. The second actuation member can have an end located within the second fuel hook-up and having a first position and a second position, the actuation member 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. In the second actuation member first position, fuel flow through the second fuel hook-up and the third outlet is prevented. In the second actuation member second position, fuel flow through the second fuel hook-up and the third outlet is permitted.

In some embodiments, the heater assembly may further comprise a first pressure regulator configured to regulate a fuel flow of the first fuel type within a first predetermined range and a second pressure regulator configured to regulate a fuel flow of the second fuel type within a second predetermined range different from the first.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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.

FIG. 1 is a perspective cutaway view of a portion of one embodiment of a heater configured to operate using either a first fuel source or a second fuel source.

FIG. 2 is a perspective cutaway view of the heater ofFIG. 1.

FIG. 3A is perspective view of one embodiment of a heating source.

FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the partially disassembled heating source ofFIG. 3A.

FIG. 3C is a front view of the heating source ofFIG. 3A.

FIG. 3D is a cross-section of the heating source taken alone line A-A ofFIG. 3C.

FIG. 4 is a top view of the partially disassembled heating source ofFIG. 3B.

FIG. 4A is a cross-section of a heating source taken along line A-A ofFIG. 4.

FIGS.4A1 and4A2 show the heating source ofFIG. 4A in two different positions.

FIGS.4B1 and4B2 are cross-sections of the heating source ofFIG. 4A taken along line B-B in two different positions.

FIGS. 5A-C are schematic views of different embodiments of heating sources.

FIGS. 6A-B are schematic views of different embodiments of heating sources.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a partially disassembled heating source.

FIG. 8 is a front view of the heating source ofFIG. 7.

FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view of the heating source ofFIG. 8 taken along line A-A.

FIG. 9 is a top view of the partially disassembled heating source ofFIG. 7.

FIG. 9A is a cross-section of a heating source taken along line A-A ofFIG. 9.

FIGS.9A1 and9A2 show the heating source ofFIG. 9A in two different positions.

FIGS. 9B and 9C are cross-sections of the heating source ofFIG. 9A taken along line C-C in two different positions.

FIGS. 10, 10A, and 10B illustrate perspective views of different embodiments of heating sources.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are cross-sections of a heating source in two different positions.

FIG. 12 is a cross-section of another heating source.

FIG. 13 is a cross-section of still another heating source.

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a heating source.

FIG. 15 is a cross-section of the heating source ofFIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a cross-section of the heating source ofFIG. 14 showing the pressure regulators.

FIG. 17 is a cross-section of the heating source ofFIG. 14 showing two valves.

FIG. 18 shows another embodiment of a heating source.

FIG. 19 is a cross-section of the heating source ofFIG. 18.

FIG. 20A is a cross-section of the heating source ofFIG. 18 showing the pressure regulator in a first position.

FIG. 20B is a cross-section of the heating source ofFIG. 18 showing the pressure regulator in a second position.

FIG. 21A shows a cross-section of another embodiment of a heating source with the pressure regulator in a first position.

FIG. 21B is a cross-section of the heating source ofFIG. 21A showing the pressure regulator in a second position.

FIG. 22 shows certain components of an embodiment of a heater.

FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram of the heater ofFIG. 22.

FIGS. 24 and 24A show another embodiment of heating source.

FIG. 25 is a cross-section taken along line C-C ofFIG. 24A.

FIG. 26 is a cross-section taken along line B-B ofFIG. 24A.

FIG. 27 is the cross-section ofFIG. 25 shown with a fitting.

FIG. 28 is the cross-section ofFIG. 26 shown with a fitting.

FIG. 29 shows certain components of an embodiment of a heater.

FIG. 30 is a schematic diagram of the heater ofFIG. 29.

FIGS. 31A and 31B show another embodiment of heating source.

FIG. 32 is a cross-section of the heating source ofFIGS. 31A and 31B in a first position.

FIG. 33 is a cross-section of the heating source ofFIGS. 31A and 31B in a second position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

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.

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of aheater100. Theheater100 can be a vent-free infrared heater, a vent-free blue flame heater, or some other variety of heater, such as a direct vent heater. Some embodiments include boilers, stoves, dryers, fireplaces, gas logs, etc. Other configurations are also possible for theheater100. In many embodiments, theheater100 is configured to be mounted to a wall or a floor or to otherwise rest in a substantially static position. In other embodiments, theheater100 is configured to move within a limited range. In still other embodiments, theheater100 is portable.

Theheater100 can comprise ahousing200. Thehousing200 can include metal or some other suitable material for providing structure to theheater100 without melting or otherwise deforming in a heated environment. In the illustrated embodiment, thehousing200 comprises awindow220, one ormore intake vents240 and one or more outlet vents260. Heated air and/or radiant energy can pass through thewindow220. Air can flow into theheater100 through the one ormore intake vents240 and heated air can flow out of theheater100 through the outlet vents260.

With reference toFIG. 2, in certain embodiments, theheater100 includes aregulator120. Theregulator120 can be coupled with an output line or intake line, conduit, orpipe122. Theintake pipe122 can be coupled with aheater control valve130, which, in some embodiments, includes aknob132. As illustrated, theheater control valve130 is coupled to afuel supply pipe124 and an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS)pipe126, each of which can be coupled with afluid flow controller140. Thefluid flow controller140 can be coupled with afirst nozzle line141, asecond nozzle line142, afirst ODS line143, and asecond ODS line144. In some embodiments, the first and the

second nozzle lines

141,142 are coupled with anozzle160, and the first and the

second ODS lines

143,144 are coupled with anODS180. In some embodiments, the ODS comprises athermocouple182, which can be coupled with theheater control valve130, and anigniter line184, which can be coupled with anigniter switch186. Each of the

pipes

122,124, and126 and the lines141-144 can define a fluid passageway or flow channel through which a fluid can move or flow.

In some embodiments, including the illustrated embodiment, theheater100 comprises aburner190. TheODS180 can be mounted to theburner190, as shown. Thenozzle160 can be positioned to discharge a fluid, which may be a gas, liquid, or combination thereof into theburner190. 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 theheater100 is a dual fuel heater, either a first or a second fluid is introduced into theheater100 through theregulator120. Still referring toFIG. 2, the first or the second fluid proceeds from theregulator120 through theintake pipe122 to theheater control valve130. Theheater control valve130 can permit a portion of the first or the second fluid to flow into thefuel supply pipe124 and permit another portion of the first or the second fluid to flow into theODS pipe126. From theheater control valve130, the first or the second fluid can proceed to thefluid flow controller140. In many embodiments, thefluid flow controller140 is configured to channel the respective portions of the first fluid from thefuel supply pipe124 to thefirst nozzle line141 and from theODS pipe126 to thefirst ODS line143 when thefluid flow controller140 is in a first state, and is configured to channel the respective portions of the second fluid from thefuel supply pipe124 to thesecond nozzle line142 and from theODS pipe126 to thesecond ODS line144 when thefluid flow controller140 is in a second state.

In certain embodiments, when thefluid flow controller140 is in the first state, a portion of the first fluid proceeds through thefirst nozzle line141, through thenozzle160 and is delivered to theburner190, and a portion of the first fluid proceeds through thefirst ODS line143 to theODS180. Similarly, when thefluid flow controller140 is in the second state, a portion of the second fluid proceeds through thenozzle160 and another portion proceeds to theODS180. As discussed in more detail below, other configurations are also possible.

A heating assembly orheating source10 that can be used with theheater100, or other gas appliances, will now be described. Theheating source10 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 atFIGS. 3A-4B2, aheating source10 can comprise afuel selector valve3. Thefuel selector valve3 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. Thefuel selector valve3 can have a first mode configured to direct a flow of a first fuel (such as NG) in a first path through thefuel selector valve3 and a second mode configured to direct a flow of a second fuel (such as LP) in a second path through thefuel selector valve3.

Thefuel selector valve3 can further comprise first and second fuel source connections or hook-

ups

12,14. Thefuel selector valve3 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 afuel selector valve3 is shown inFIG. 3A with ahousing11 and acover20. The cover has been removed inFIG. 3B revealing some of the internal components of the illustrated embodiment. Apressure regulator16 is positioned within the housing such that fluid entering thefuel selector valve3 via either the first or second

fuel source connection

12,14 can be directed to thepressure regulator16.FIG. 3D shows a cross-section of theselector valve3 showing the flow path between the fuel source connections and the pressure regulator. Fuel from thepressure regulator16 can then flow to theoutlet18, as can also be seen with reference toFIG. 3D. The fuel can then flow to various other components, such as a burner. In some embodiments, thefuel selector valve3 has two separate pressure regulators such that each fuel source connection directs fuel to a specific pressure regulator which can then travel to the outlet.

Thefuel selector valve3 can be configured to select one or more flow paths through thefuel selector valve3 and/or to set a parameter of the fuel selector valve. For example, thefuel selector valve3 can include one or more valves, where the position of the valve can determine one or more flow paths through thefuel selector valve3, such as a fluid exit or entry pathway. As another example, thefuel selector valve3 can control certain parameters of thepressure regulator16.

With reference toFIGS. 4-4A2, it can be seen that thefuel selector valve3 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 thefuel selector valve3 and/or to set a parameter of the fuel selector valve. The one or more actuation members can be provided in thefuel selector valve3 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, theactuation member22 has anend26 positioned within the firstfuel source connection12. Aconnector30 can be attached to the firstfuel source connection12 by advancing the connector into the firstfuel source connection12. This can force theactuation member end26 into the housing of thefuel selector valve3. This force then counteracts a spring force provided by aspring32 to open avalve34.

FIG.4A1 shows theopen valve34 with theconnector30 attached to the firstfuel source connection12. Theconnector30 can be part of a fuel source to provide fuel to theheater assembly10. With thevalve34 in the open position, fuel from the fuel source can flow through theconnector30 and into thefuel selector valve3. In particular, as shown, fuel can flow into the firstfuel source connection12, then to thepressure regulator16 and finally out of thefuel selector valve3 by way of outlet18 (FIGS. 3A-3B).

Alternatively, theconnector30 can be connected to the secondfuel source connection14. This can open thevalve36 by pressing on theend28 of thesecond actuation member24. Fuel can then flow from the fuel source through theconnector30 into thefuel source connection14. The fuel can then flow to thepressure regulator16 and out throughoutlet18.

The presence of two

valves

34,36, one at each

fuel source connection

12,14, can prevent fuel from exiting thefuel selector valve3 undesirably, as well as preventing other undesirable materials from entering thefuel selector valve3. 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 theactuation member24 does not include a valve at thefuel source connection14.

In addition to or instead of providing avalve36 at the inlet orfuel source connection14, theactuation member24 can be in a position to control a parameter of thepressure regulator16. Referring back toFIGS. 3B and 4, it can be seen that anarm38 extends between theactuation member24 and thepressure regulator16. Theactuation member24 can act on the arm, determining the position of thearm38. This position can be seen by comparing the position of thearm38 in FIGS.4A1 and4A2, as well as4B1 and4B2. The position of thearm38 can then determine the height (H₁, H₃) of thespring40 within the pressure regulator. That is, though the length of the spring is constant, the height H₁of the spring when the diaphragm is in a first position shown inFIG.4B1 is greater than the height H₃of the spring when the spring is in the position shown in FIG.4B2. As shown, thearm38 contacts acap41 that is connected to thespring40. The height of thespring40 can be a factor in determining the force required to move thediaphragm42. The spring height can be used to preset the pressure settings of the pressure regulator. Thus, the spring can be tensioned to regulate the pressure of the incoming fuel depending on whether the first or second fuel source is utilized.

In another embodiment, the actuation member contacts thepressure regulator16 directly, such as at thecap41, without the assistance of an arm or other device to set the regulating pressure of the pressure regulator.

Thepressure regulator16 can be set to a first position as shown in FIG.4B1. The initial position can allow for flow control of the first fuel at an initial predetermined pressure or pressure range. The initial predetermined pressure or pressure range is lower than the second predetermined pressure or pressure range based on the second position as shown in FIG.4B2. For example, the predetermined selected pressure can depend at least in part on the particular fuel used, and may desirably provide for safe and efficient fuel combustion and reduce, mitigate, or minimize undesirable emissions and pollution. In some embodiments, the first pressure can be set to be within the range of about 3 inches of water column to about 6 inches of water column, including all values and sub-ranges therebetween. In some embodiments, the threshold or flow-terminating pressure is about 3 inches of water column, about 4 inches of water column, about 5 inches of water column, or about 6 inches of water column.

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.

Thepressure regulator16 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 andFIGS. 3-7 of the issued patent.

The pressure settings can be further adjusted by tensioning of a screw orother device41 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, aplunger seat43 can be pushed towards aseal ring45 to seal off the orifice, thereby closing the pressure regulator.

Thefuel selector valve3 can permit the flow of fuel from one or more pressure regulators, through thefuel selector valve3 and into additional components. The additional components can be, for example, theheater control valve130, thefluid flow controller140, thenozzle160, 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 theheating source10. 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 theheater100 or other appliance.

Returning now to FIGS.4A1-4B2, the functioning of thearm38 and theactuation member24 will be described in more detail. Theactuation member24 can have a varying or undulating surface that engages thearm38. Thearm38 can move with the varying surface thereby changing the position of thearm38. Thearm38 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. Thearm38 can be elongate, have spring qualities, be biased upwards, be a bent metal arm or beam, etc.

Theactuation member24 can have sections of different heights (H₂, H₄). For example, theactuation member24 can include flat spots or sections with a diameter different than adjacent sections. As can be seen, the actuation member includes aflat portion44 with atransition portion46 that extends between the initial outer diameter of the cylindrical rod and theflat portion44. Alternatively, theportion44 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. Theactuation member24 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 thearm38 for engaging the arm and setting the pressure at thepressure regulator16.

Looking now toFIG. 5A, a schematic diagram of a heating source with afuel selector valve3 is illustrated. The illustratedfuel selector valve3 can be similar to that described above with reference toFIGS. 3A-4B2. A fuel source can be connected to thefuel selector valve3 via one of the

fuel source connections

12,14. The act of connecting the fuel source to thefuel selector valve3 can set the pressure regulator to the desired pressure if it is not already at the desired pressure. Thus, selecting the proper fuel source connection can determine and sometimes set the pressure at the pressure regulator. It will be understood that one fuel source connection may allow fluid to flow through a default or preset path while the other fuel source connection may change the path including changing other characteristics of the system along the path such as the pressure regulator setting. In some embodiments, both fuel source connections may change the path and/or other characteristics.

Thefuel selector valve3 can permit the flow of fuel from thepressure regulator16 through thefuel selector valve3 and then into additional components. The additional components can be, for example, theheater control valve130, thefluid flow controller140, thenozzle160, 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 theheating source10. 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 theheater100 or other appliance.

FIGS. 5B and 5C show additional embodiments of heating source where selecting the fuel source connection can set additional parameters. The fuel selector valve ofFIG. 5B includes avalve48. Thevalve48 has one inlet and two outlets, such that one outlet can be closed while the other is open. Thevalve48 can have an initial position where one of the outlets is open and a secondary position where the other outlet is open. The selection of the fuel source connection can determine whether the valve is in the initial or secondary position. For example, selecting the firstfuel source connection12 can allow fuel flow through the initial configuration of the heating source, while selecting the secondfuel source connection14 can move thepressure regulator16 and thevalve48 to their secondary configurations.

In other embodiments, the two outlets can both have separate open and closed positions with separate valves located at each outlet. Thus, thevalve48 can comprise two valves. The selection of the fuel source connection can determine which valve is opened. For example, selecting the firstfuel source connection12 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 secondfuel source connection14 can move thepressure regulator16 to its secondary configuration and open the second valve at the other of the outlets.

FIG. 5C illustrates a fuel selector valve having two

valves

48,50. In addition to setting the pressure regulator, selecting the fuel source connection can also determine how the fuel flows through the

valves

48,50. For example, one selection can allow the fuel to follow the upward arrows, while the other selection can allow the fuel to follow the downward arrows. In addition, the fuel selector valve can also direct the fuel out of the fuel selector valve after thepressure regulator16, and then receive the fuel again. The fuel can be directed toother components52 that then direct the fuel, or some of the fuel back to the fuel selector valve. It should be understood that the fuel selector valve show inFIG. 5B can also includeother components52 between thepressure regulator16 and thevalve48. The heating source can include the fuel selector valve and one or more of the other components.

Theother component52 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 thecontrol valve52 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 toFIGS. 6A and 6B, additional embodiments of heating sources are shown. The heating source ofFIG. 6A is very similar to that shown inFIG. 5C. One difference is that the fuel selector valve ofFIG. 6A includes twopressure regulators16′. The twopressure regulators16′ can be preset to a particular pressure or pressure range. As there is only one line leading to each pressure regulator, the pressure regulators do not need to be changeable between two different pressures as discussed above with reference toFIGS. 5A-5C. In addition, similar toFIGS. 5B and 5C, either one of the

fuel source connections

12,14 or both can determine and/or change a path through the fuel selector valve. For example, each of

valves

48 and50 can comprise one valve or two valves as described above.

FIG. 6B shows another embodiment where thecontrol valve52 returns two flows of fuel to the fuel selector valve. One flow of fuel is directed to avalve48 and one flow passes through the fuel selector valve but does not have separate paths dependent on the fuel type.

In each of the embodiments shown inFIGS. 5A-6B, 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.

Turning now toFIGS. 7-9C, another embodiment ofheating source10 is shown. It will be understood that parts of this heating source can function in a similar manner to the heating source shown and described with reference toFIGS. 3A-4B2. Thus, similar reference numbers are used. For example, thepressure regulator16 functions in the same way in both illustrated embodiments. In addition, the embodiment ofFIGS. 7-9C is conceptually similar to the schematic diagram shown and described with reference toFIG. 5C.

Looking toFIG. 7, it can be seen that acontrol valve52 having two

solenoids

54,56 is connected to the side of thefuel selector valve3. The fuel selector valve also includes two

valves

48,50.FIGS. 8 and 8A show thefuel selector valve3 in relation to thecontrol valve52. A fluid, such as fuel, can flow from one of the

fuel source connections

12,14 flows through thepressure regulator16 to thecontrol valve52. The fluid flow will first encounter thefirst solenoid54. Thefirst solenoid54 has avalve58 that can control flow past thefirst solenoid54. When thevalve58 is open, fluid can flow to both thesecond solenoid56 and to thevalve48. Thesecond solenoid56 also has avalve60 which can open or close to control fuel flow to thevalve50. In some embodiments, thevalve48 directs fuel to a pilot light or oxygen depletion sensor and thevalve50 directs fuel to a nozzle at a burner. Thus, it may be desirable direct fuel to be ignited at the pilot light first, before igniting or directing fuel to the burner. Thecontrol valve52 can also control the amount of fuel flowing to burner. In some embodiments, the control valve can also include a manual valve that allows for manual as well as, or instead of, automatic control by an electric valve, such as the two solenoids shown.

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, theactuation member24 can move the

valves

48 and50 from an initial position to a secondary position in a manner similar to that described above with reference to the pressure regulator.

Thefuel selector valve3 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. Thefuel selector valve3 can have a first mode configured to direct a flow of a first fuel (such as NG) in a first path through thefuel selector valve3 and a second mode configured to direct a flow of a second fuel (such as LP) in a second path through thefuel selector valve3.

ups

12,14. Thefuel selector valve3 can connect to one of two different fuel sources, each fuel source having a different type of fuel therein.

Apressure regulator16 is positioned within the housing such that fluid entering thefuel selector valve3 via either the first or second

fuel source connection

12,14 can be directed to thepressure regulator16. Fuel from thepressure regulator16 can then flow to thecontrol valve52 as discussed above. In some embodiments, thefuel selector valve3 has two separate pressure regulators such that each fuel source connection directs fuel to a specific pressure regulator.

Thefuel selector valve3 can be configured to select one or more flow paths through thefuel selector valve3 and/or to set a parameter of the fuel selector valve. For example, thefuel selector valve3 may include two

valves

48,50, where the position of the valve can determine a flow path through thefuel selector valve3. Thefuel selector valve3 can also control certain parameters of thepressure regulator16.

With reference toFIGS. 9-9A2, it can be seen that thefuel selector valve3 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 thefuel selector valve3 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 illustratedactuation member22 has anend26 positioned within the firstfuel source connection12. Aconnector30 can be attached to the firstfuel source connection12 by advancing the connector into the firstfuel source connection12. This can force theactuation member end26 into the housing of thefuel selector valve3. This force then counteracts a spring force provided by aspring32 to open avalve34.

FIG.9A1 shows theopen valve34 with theconnector30 attached to the firstfuel source connection12. Theconnector30 can be part of a fuel source to provide fuel to theheater assembly10. With thevalve34 in the open position, fuel from the fuel source can flow into the firstfuel source connection12, to thepressure regulator16, then to thecontrol valve52 and then to one or both of the

valves

48,50 before finally leaving thefuel selector valve3.

Alternatively, theconnector30 can be connected to the secondfuel source connection14 as shown in FIG.9A2. This can open thevalve36 by pressing on theend28 of thesecond actuation member24. Fuel can then flow from the fuel source through theconnector30 into thefuel selector valve3 and through thefuel selector valve3 in the same manner as mentioned above.

The presence of two

valves

34,36, one at each

fuel source connection

In addition to, or instead of, providing avalve36 at the inlet orfuel source connection14, theactuation member24 can be in a position to control a parameter of thepressure regulator16, such as by anarm38 that extends between theactuation member24 and thepressure regulator16. Theactuation member24 can act on the arm, determining the position of thearm38. The position of thearm38 can then determine the height of thespring40 within the pressure regulator. The height of thespring40 can be a factor in determining the force required to move thediaphragm42. 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, theactuation member24 can also control one or more valves, including

valves

48,50. Theactuation member24 can have a varying or undulating surface that engages thearms38 as shown in FIGS.9A1-9A2. Thearms38 can move with the varying surface thereby changing the position of thearms38.

Theactuation member24 can include flat spots or sections with a diameter different than adjacent sections. As can be seen, the actuation member includesflat portions44 withtransition portions46 that extend between the initial outer diameter of the cylindrical rod and theflat portions44. Alternatively, theportion44 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. Theactuation member24 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 thearms38 for engaging the arms.

Looking now toFIGS. 9B and 9C, an embodiment of avalve48 is shown. Thevalve50 can function in a similar manner to that as will be described with reference tovalve48. The valves can also function in other ways as will be understood by one of skill in the art.

Valve

48 is shown having avalve body62 that can control the fluid flow path and whether the flow exits thevalve48 through one of two

outlets

70,72. Thevalve body62 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 thecontrol valve52 as indicated by the dotted line. The position of thevalve body62 within thevalve48 can then determine whether the fluid exits via thefirst outlet70 or thesecond outlet72.

Thevalve body62 can have aspring32 to bias the valve body towards a first position as shown inFIG. 9B. In the first position, theoutlet72 is open andoutlet70 is closed, thus fluid will flow throughflow path73. In the second position shown inFIG. 9C, theoutlet72 is closed and theoutlet70 is open, thus fluid will flow throughflow path71. Thevalve body62 can be made of one or more materials. Thevalve body62 may include a solid core with a rubber or other elastic material to form the valve seat with the respective first or

second ledge

64,66.

Thevalve body62 can also engage thearm38 so that the position of thevalve body62 is controlled by theactuation member24. As mentioned with respect to the pressure regulator, in some embodiments, theactuation member24 can contact the valve body directly, without the use of anarm38. Also, thearm38 can take any form to allow the actuation member to control the position of the valve body within thevalve48.

Thevalve48 can also include adiaphragm68. Thediaphragm68 can be different from thediaphragm42 in the pressure regulator (FIGS.4B1 and4B2) in that thediaphragm68 is generally not used for pressure regulation. Thediaphragm68 can be a sheet of a flexible material anchored at its periphery that is most often round in shape. It can serve as a flexible barrier that allows the valve to be actuated from the outside, while sealing thevalve body62 and keeping the contents, namely the fuel, within the fuel selector valve.

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of theheating source10 where both thefirst valve48 and thesecond valve50 have two outlets and function in similar manners. Thus, theheating source10,valve48 andvalve50 can all function in the same or a similar manner as that described with respect toFIGS. 7-9C.FIGS. 10A and 10B show heating sources where thefirst valve48 is different from thesecond valve50. Thevalve48 can be the same or similar to that described above and thevalve50 can be the same or similar to the valves described in more detail below. Further, in some embodiments the heating source can include only one valve. The heating source may still include one or more outlets at the area that does not include a valve.

FIGS. 11A and 11B show an embodiment of avalve50 in cross-section. As one example, the illustratedvalve50 could be used in the heating source ofFIG. 10A. Thevalve50 has two channels or flow

paths

78,80 and avalve body62′ that is positioned to open and close only one of theflow paths80. Thus, theflow path78 remains open so that when fuel is flowing from thecontrol valve52 to thevalve50, it will flow throughflow path78 and it may also flow throughflow path80.FIG. 11A shows thevalve50 with thevalve body62′ spaced away from theledge66 so that the valve and theflow path80 are open.FIG. 11B shows thevalve body62′ seated at theledge66 so that the valve and theflow path80 are closed. Theflow path78 remains open in both figures. There is also only oneoutlet74 so both flow paths pass through theoutlet74.

FIG. 12 shows thevalve50 ofFIG. 11A with anozzle assembly76 positioned within theoutlet74. Thenozzle assembly76 has acenter orifice82 and anouter orifice84. Theflow path78 is in fluid communication with thecenter orifice82 and theflow path80 is in fluid communication with theouter orifice84. The orifices can be single orifices, or a plurality of orifices. For example, the nozzle can have asingle center orifice82 and a plurality of orifices that surround the center orifice to make up theouter orifice84.

FIG. 13 illustrates another embodiment of the fuel selector valve which is conceptually similar to the schematic diagram shown and described with reference toFIG. 6B. The fuel selector valve can have avalve48 and then aseparate flow path86. Thus, acontrol valve52 can return two flows of fuel to the fuel selector valve, one of which to thevalve48 and one to theflow path86. The fuel in theflow path86 can flow through the fuel selector valve without being controlled by have avalve50 or without being directed down separate paths dependent on the fuel type. The fuel is simply directed out of the fuel selector valve.

Turning now toFIGS. 14-17, another embodiment of a heating source is shown which is conceptually similar to the schematic diagram shown and described with reference toFIG. 6A. As can best be seen inFIG. 15, both thefirst actuation member22′ and thesecond actuation member24′ are used to control valves at the inlets, but also the valves at the outlets of the fuel selector valve. In addition, the fuel selector valve includes twopressure regulators16′,16″ as can be seen inFIG. 16. The twopressure regulators16′,16″ can be preset to a particular pressure or pressure range and each of the

fuel source connections

12,14 can direct fluid flow to a specific pressure regulator. Thus, the pressure regulators do not need to be changeable between two different pressures as discussed previously.

The pressure settings of eachpressure regulator16′,16″ can be independently adjusted by tensioning of a screw orother device41 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, aplunger seat43 can be pushed towards aseal ring45 to seal off the orifice, thereby closing the pressure regulator.

Turning now toFIG. 17, one example of avalve48′ is shown. Thevalve48′ can comprise two separate valves that are each separately controllable by either thefirst actuation member22′ or thesecond actuation member24′. The selection of the fuel source connection can determine which valve is opened. For example, selecting the firstfuel source connection12 and advancing thefirst actuation member22′ can allow fuel flow through apreset pressure regulator16″ and can move thefirst valve body62′ to the open position to allow flow through theoutlet70. Selecting the secondfuel source connection14 and advancing thesecond actuation member24′ can allow fuel flow through apreset pressure regulator16′ and can move thesecond valve body62″ to the open position to allow flow through theoutlet72. It is anticipated that only one of the fuel source connections will be selected, though it is possible that in certain configurations, both fuel source connections could be in use.

The fuel selector valve may also include valves in or near the

fuel source connections

As before, it will be understood that thevalve50′ can be similar tovalve48′ or can have a different configuration. For example, thevalve50′ may have one or two outlets and it may include a nozzle in the one outlet.

Turning now toFIGS. 18-20B, another embodiment of a heating source is illustrated. This heating source is similar in many regards to that discussed below with reference toFIGS. 3A-4B2. The heating source can include afuel selector valve3 configured 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. Thefuel selector valve3 can include first and second fuel source connections or hook-

ups

12,14. Thefuel selector valve3 can connect to one of two different fuel sources through the hook-

ups

12,14, each fuel source having a different type of fuel therein.

fuel source connection

12,14 can be directed to thepressure regulator16.FIG. 19 shows a cross-section of theselector valve3 showing the flow path from the fuel source connections to the pressure regulator. Fuel from thepressure regulator16 can then flow to theoutlet18. The fuel can then flow to various other components, such as a burner.

With continued reference toFIG. 19, it can be seen that thefuel selector valve3 can include one or

more actuation members

22,24. The

actuation members

As shown, theactuation member22 has anend26 positioned within the firstfuel source connection12. Aconnector30 can be attached to the firstfuel source connection12 by advancing the connector into the firstfuel source connection12. This can force theactuation member end26 into the housing of thefuel selector valve3. This force then counteracts a spring force provided by aspring32 to open avalve34.Actuation member24 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 thefuel selector valve3 undesirably, as well as preventing other undesirable materials from entering thefuel selector valve3.

In addition to or instead of providing avalve36 at the inlet orfuel source connection14, theactuation member24 can be in a position to control a parameter of thepressure regulator16. Referring toFIGS. 20A and 20B, it can be seen that anarm90 can be positioned between anend88 of theactuation member24 and thepressure regulator16. Theactuation member24 can act on the arm, determining the position of thearm90. This position can be seen by comparing the position of thearm90 inFIGS. 20A and 20B.

Asecondary spring92 is shown operatively connected to thearm90. Thesecondary spring92 can assist themain regulator spring40 to set a desired regulation pressure. For example, thesecondary spring92 can have an engaged position (FIG. 20A) and an unengaged position (FIG. 20B) which correspond with a first and second position of the pressure regulator. When the arm is moved upwards, thespring92 engages the valve43 (FIG. 20A) and pushes the valve, as well as, thediaphragm42 upwards. This also can adjust the height of themain spring40. This can decrease the pressure required to cause flow through thepressure regulator16. It will be understood that the arm and/or spring can be used in other ways to decrease or increase the pressure setting of the pressure regulator. For example, thesecondary spring92 can be connected to thevalve43 in both positions, and the actuation member can be used to adjust the height of the spring.

In the embodiment ofFIG. 20A, thesecondary spring92 is engaged with thevalve43 and theinlet14 is closed. Though not shown, a fitting30 can be advanced into theinlet12 to utilize the illustrated configuration of the pressure regulator. Fuel can flow from a fuel source, thoughinlet12 and through the pressure regulator with thesecondary spring92 engaged with thevalve43.

FIG. 20B shows a fitting30 withininlet14. In this position, thesecondary spring92 is disengaged from the valve. Thus, thevalve43 anddiaphragm42 will return to their initial at rest positions until fuel begins to flow, acting on the diaphragm and flowing through the pressure regulator and out theoutlet18.

FIGS. 21A and 21B show a variation of the heating source ofFIGS. 20A and 20B. In this embodiment, when the fitting30 is positioned within theinlet12 and not theinlet14, thesecondary spring92′ is in the unengaged position (FIG. 21A). Then, when the fitting30 is within theinlet14, thesecondary spring92′ is in the engaged position (FIG. 21B).

Turning now toFIGS. 22 and 23, another embodiment of aheater assembly100 is illustrated. In some embodiments, theheater assembly100 can include afuel selector valve3. Thefuel selector valve3 can receive a first fuel or a second fuel. In some embodiments, the first fuel may be liquid propane gas (LP). In some embodiments, the second fuel may be natural gas (NG). Thefuel selector valve3 includes afuel source connection12 and afuel source connection14. Thefuel selector valve3 can receive LP atfuel source connection12. Thefuel selector valve3 can receive NG atfuel source connection14.

In some embodiments, thefuel selector valve3 can direct fuel to acontrol valve130. 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. Thecontrol valve130 can direct fuel back to thefuel selector valve3 and/or to anozzle assembly160. In some embodiments thenozzle assembly160 can be part of thefuel selector valve3. Thenozzle assembly160 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.FIGS. 23-24B, 28A-34B, 39A-44B, and their accompanying descriptions are but some examples of nozzle assemblies from U.S. 2012/0255536.

Anair shutter170 can be positioned around thenozzle assembly160 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.

Thefuel selector valve3 can also direct fuel to an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS)180. In some embodiments, thefuel selector valve3 can be coupled with

ODS lines

143 and144. As shown, theODS180 has athermocouple182 coupled to thecontrol valve130, and anigniter line184 coupled with anigniter186. In some embodiments, theODS180 can be mounted to themain burner190.

As also shown inFIG. 22, in some embodiments the heater can be a hybrid heating apparatus and can include anelectric heating element105. Theelectric heating element105 and heater can be similar to that described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/310,649 filed Dec. 2, 2011 and published as U.S. 2012/0145693, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein and are to be considered a part of the specification.

Referring now toFIGS. 24-24A, another embodiment of afuel selector valve3 will be described. Thefuel selector valve3 as illustrated includes twopressure regulators16, one for each different fuel type for a dual fuel heater. Each of the pressure regulators can have a spring loaded valve connected to a diaphragm. The fluid pressure acting on the diaphragm can move the valve allowing more or less fluid to flow through the pressure regulator depending on the orientation of the valve with respect to a valve seat which are generally positioned within the flow passage through the pressure regulator.

Among other features, theheating assembly100 can be used to select between two different fuels and to set certain parameters, such as one or more flowpaths, and/or a setting on one or more pressure regulators based on the desired and selected fuel. Theheating assembly100 can have a first mode configured to direct a flow of a first fuel (such as LP) in a first path through theheating assembly100 and a second mode configured to direct a flow of a second fuel (such as NG) in a second path through theheating assembly100.

Thefuel selector valve3 can be used to select between two different fuels and to set certain parameters, such as one or more flowpaths, and/or a setting on one or more pressure regulators based on the desired and selected fuel. Thefuel selector valve3 can have a first mode configured to direct a flow of a first fuel (such as LPG) on a first path through thefuel selector valve3 and a second mode configured to direct a flow of a second fuel (such as NG) on a second path through thefuel selector valve3. Thefuel selector valve3 can also include one or more actuation members as has been previously described with respect to previous embodiments. In some embodiments, thefuel selector valve3 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.

FIG. 24 illustrates an external view of afuel selector valve3 that can have afirst inlet12 and asecond inlet14. Both inlets can have an actuation member with an end that can at least partially enter the inlet and close or substantially close the inlet. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 25, thefirst inlet12 can have afirst actuation member22 with an end that blocks the inlet. Similarly, thesecond inlet14 can have asecond actuation member24 with an end that blocks the inlet.

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, thefirst actuation member22 can have a first position in which thesealing section34 of the first actuation member seats against the first ledge. Similarly, thesecond actuation member24 can have a first position in which thesealing section36 of the second actuation member seats against the second ledge. Each actuation member preferably has a biasing member, such as aspring32 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.FIG. 27 illustrates a fitting30 of a source of fuel connected to thefirst inlet12. Each of the inlets is shown fluidly connected to apressure regulator16 and to theoutlet18.

As with some pressure regulators described above, the pressure settings of eachpressure regulator16 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, afuel selector valve3 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 toFIGS. 26 and 28, it can be seen that the illustratedfuel selector valve3 can provide additional control of a fluid flow through an additional valve system. As shown inFIG. 22, thefuel selector valve3 can both direct fluid to thecontrol valve130 and receive a flow of fluid from the control valve. As shown, thecontrol valve130 directs the fluid flow for the oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) to thefuel selector valve3. It will be understood that other embodiments can receive both the ODS fluid flow, as well as the nozzle fluid flow, or just the fluid flow for the nozzle. In addition, thefuel selector valve3 can direct fluid flow to other components in addition to and/or instead of thecontrol valve130.

As best seen inFIG. 28, the

actuators

22,24 can each be operatively coupled to a

valve member

112,114 that can open the flow path to either thesecond outlet96 or thethird outlet98. Thus, fluid received at thethird inlet94 can be discharged to either thesecond outlet96 or thethird outlet98. In this way, thefuel selector valve3 can direct fuel to desired location, such as a burner nozzle or ODS nozzle specific for a particular type of fuel.

The

actuation members

22,24 are shown as have three separate movable members. For example,actuation member22 has afirst valve26, amoveable member102 and asecond valve112. Thissecond valve112 ofactuation member22 is also the third valve of the system.Actuation member24 is shown with afirst valve28, amoveable member104 and asecond valve114. In the overall system, these valves are also called thesecond valve28 and thefourth valve112. 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 ofsprings32 and o-rings,106 can be used to bias the members to their initial positions and to prevent leakage.

FIG. 28 shows a fitting in thefirst inlet12. The fitting has advanced theactuation member22. Thus, thevalve26 has been moved backwards opening thevalve seat34 to allow fluid flow to thepressure regulator16 and then to theoutlet18 along a first flow path. The second flow path between theinlet14 andoutlet18 is closed. Fluid can also be received in thesecond inlet94. Theactuation member22 has been advanced so that themoveable member102 has also been advanced.Moveable member102 is operatively coupled tovalve member26 through aspring32 positioned between them. Themoveable member102 can contact thethird valve member112, opening avalve seat108 to allow fluid flow out of theoutlet96. This can be done along a third flow path.

A fourth flow path is closed as theactuation member24 has not been advanced. Thus, the secondmoveable member104 has also not been advanced. The secondmoveable member104 is operatively coupled tovalve member28 through aspring32 positioned between them. The secondmoveable member104 can contact thefourth valve member114. As it has not been advanced, thevalve seat110 remains closed, preventing fluid flow betweenthird inlet94 andthird outlet96. It will be understood that connecting a fitting in theinlet14 can open the second and fourth flow paths.

In some embodiments, afuel selector valve3 similar to that described with respect toFIGS. 24-28, can have a single pressure regulator, or no pressure regulators. In addition, in some embodiments, thefuel selector valve3 can have separate outlets fluidly connected to each inlet and/or fuel hook-up.

Turning now toFIGS. 29 and 30, another embodiment of aheater assembly100 is illustrated. In some embodiments, theheater assembly100 can include afuel selector valve3. Thefuel selector valve3 can receive a first fuel or a second fuel. Thefuel selector valve3 can include afuel source connection12 and afuel source connection14. Thefuel selector valve3 can receive a LP source atfuel source connection12 and a NG source atfuel source connection14.

In some embodiments, thefuel selector valve3 can direct fuel to acontrol valve130. 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. Thecontrol valve130 can direct fuel back to thefuel selector valve3 and/or to anozzle assembly160. In some embodiments thenozzle assembly160 can be part of thefuel selector valve3. As shown, thecontrol valve130 directs fuel flow to both thefuel selector valve3 and to thenozzle assembly160. Thefuel selector valve3 can then selectably direct an additional flow of fuel to thenozzle assembly160.

ODS lines

As also shown inFIG. 29, in some embodiments the heater can be a hybrid heating apparatus and can include anelectric heating element105. Theelectric heating element105 and heater can be similar to that described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/310,649 filed Dec. 2, 2011 and published as U.S. 2012/0145693, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein and are to be considered a part of the specification.

Referring now toFIGS. 31A and 31B, another embodiment of afuel selector valve3 will be described. Thefuel selector valve3 can be used to select between two different fuels and to set certain parameters, such as one or more flowpaths, and/or a setting on one or more pressure regulators based on the desired and selected fuel. Thefuel selector valve3 can have a first mode configured to direct a flow of a first fuel (such as LPG) on a first path through thefuel selector valve3 and a second mode configured to direct a flow of a second fuel (such as NG) on a second path through thefuel selector valve3. Thefuel selector valve3 can also include one or more actuation members as has been previously described with respect to previous embodiments. In some embodiments, thefuel selector valve3 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.

FIG. 32 illustrates a cross section of thefuel selector valve3. The fuel selector valve has afirst inlet12 and asecond inlet14. Both inlets can have an actuation member with an end that can at least partially enter the inlet and close or substantially close the inlet. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 32, thefirst inlet12 can have afirst actuation member22 with an end that blocks the inlet. Similarly, thesecond inlet14 can have asecond actuation member24 with an end that blocks the inlet. As shown, a fitting30 is positioned within theinlet12.

sections

respective inlets

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.FIG. 32 illustrates a fitting30 of a source of fuel connected to thefirst inlet12. The inlets are also fluidly connected to asingle pressure regulator16 and to theoutlet18.

Thefuel selector valve3 as illustrated includes apressure regulator16 that can function in a manner similar to that described with respect toFIGS. 20A-21B. The pressure regulator can have a spring loaded valve connected to a diaphragm. Asecondary spring92 can be operatively connected to anarm90. Thesecondary spring92 can assist themain regulator spring40 to set a desired regulation pressure. For example, thesecondary spring92 can have an unengaged position (FIG. 32) and an engaged position (FIG. 33) which correspond with a first and second position of the pressure regulator.

Thearm90 can be coupled to theactuation member24 through aslot116 and tongue. When theactuation member24 is advanced, thearm90 can be forced to move towards the pressure regulator. Moving towards thepressure regulator16 can cause thesecondary spring92 to engage the valve43 (FIG. 33) and push the valve, as well as, thediaphragm42 upwards. This also can adjust the height of themain spring40. This can decrease the pressure required to cause flow through thepressure regulator16. It will be understood that the arm and/or spring can be used in other ways to decrease or increase the pressure setting of the pressure regulator. For example, thesecondary spring92 can be connected to thevalve43 in both positions, and the actuation member can be used to adjust the height of the spring.

In the embodiment ofFIG. 32, thesecondary spring92 is not engaged with thevalve43 and theinlet14 is closed. A fitting30 is shown within theinlet12 to utilize the illustrated configuration of the pressure regulator. Fuel can flow from a fuel source, thoughinlet12 and through the pressure regulator to theoutlet18.

FIG. 33 shows a fitting30 withininlet14. In this position, thesecondary spring92 is engaged with thevalve43. Thus, thevalve43 anddiaphragm42 are advanced from their initial state. When fuel flows into theinlet14, it will flow to thediaphragm42 andpressure regulator16, flow through the pressure regulator and out theoutlet18.

As has been mentioned, the flow can then travel to acontrol valve130 or to another component before returning to thefuel selector valve3. Returning toFIGS. 31A and 31B, it can be seen that thefuel selector valve3 has two

inlets

94,146 to receive additional fluid flow. Frominlet146, thefuel selector valve3 can either permit or prevent flow to theoutlet148. Frominlet94, thefuel selector valve3 can permit flow to eitheroutlet96 or outlet98 (FIG. 31B). In some embodiments, theinlet146 andoutlet148 can be configured to direct fluid to the nozzle and can be anozzle flowpath inlet146 and a nozzle flowpath outlet. In some embodiments, theinlet94 and

outlets

96,98 can be configured to direct fluid to the oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) and can be an ODS flowpath inlet and first and second ODS flowpath outlets.

The flow between these inlets and outlets can be controlled through athird actuation member118. Though in other embodiments, theactuation member24 can be used. As shown, theinlet14 has anactuation member118 outside of theinlet14. Aspring32 can be used to bias theactuation member118 to a spaced away initial position. Inserting a fitting30 can advance theactuation member118, as can be seen by comparingFIGS. 32 and 33. As can best be seen inFIG. 31A, anelongated member128 is connected to theactuation member118 and across bar134 is connected to theelongated member128. In addition, two

shafts

136,150 are attached to the cross bar. Each of the shafts is connected to a

valve

152,138 that can control the flow of fuel between the

respective inlets

146,94 and

outlets

148,96,98, for example for the nozzle and ODS.

FIG. 32 shows an initial position, where thevalve152 is closed preventing any flow betweeninlet146 andoutlet148. Also,valve138 is positioned to allow flow betweeninlet94 andoutlet96, though the actual flow path can not be seen. If a fitting30 is in theinlet12, these initial positions will be used to control the flow of fluid through thefuel selector valve3.

FIG. 33 shows a second position, where the fitting30 has been inserted into theinlet14. The fitting30 has also caused thethird actuation member118 to advance, forcing theelongate member128,cross bar134,

shafts

136,150, and

valves

138,152 to move. Thevalve152 is now open, allowing flow between theinlet146 and theoutlet148. Also, theinlet94 is in communication withoutlet96, while thevalve138 is positioned to block flow to theoutlet98.

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 inFIGS. 29-33.

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 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.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A heater assembly for use with one of a first fuel type or a second fuel type different than the first, the heater assembly comprising:

a first pressure regulator configured to regulate a fuel flow of a first fuel type within a first predetermined range

a second pressure regulator configured to regulate a fuel flow of a second fuel type within a second predetermined range different from the first;

a housing comprising:

a first fuel hook-up for connecting the first fuel type to the heater assembly, the first fuel hook-up configured to direct fuel flow to the first pressure regulator;

a second hook-up for connecting the second fuel type to the heater assembly, the second fuel hook-up configured to direct fuel flow to the second pressure regulator;

a first outlet in fluid communication with both the first and second pressure regulators;

a first inlet;

a second outlet; and

a third outlet;

a first actuation member having an end located within the first fuel hook-up and having a first actuation member first position and a second position, the actuation member configured such that connecting a fuel source to the heater assembly at the first fuel hook-up moves the actuation member from the first actuation member first position to the second position,

wherein in the first actuation member first position, fuel flow through the first fuel hook-up and the second outlet is prevented and in the first actuation member second position, fuel flow through the first fuel hook-up and the second outlet is permitted;

a second actuation member having an end located within the second fuel hook-up and having a first position and a second position, the actuation member 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,

wherein in the second actuation member first position, fuel flow through the second fuel hook-up and the third outlet is prevented and in the second actuation member second position, fuel flow through the second fuel hook-up and the third outlet is permitted.