US20230368661A1 - Heating system - Google Patents
Heating system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20230368661A1 US20230368661A1 US18/358,750 US202318358750A US2023368661A1 US 20230368661 A1 US20230368661 A1 US 20230368661A1 US 202318358750 A US202318358750 A US 202318358750A US 2023368661 A1 US2023368661 A1 US 2023368661A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- heating system
- heater element
- layer
- visor
- sensor
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 title claims description 71
- 239000010410 layer Substances 0.000 claims description 93
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 claims description 23
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000012777 electrically insulating material Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000001105 regulatory effect Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000012790 adhesive layer Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000001276 controlling effect Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 11
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 11
- 239000011159 matrix material Substances 0.000 description 5
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 description 4
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical group [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 238000009825 accumulation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000002844 melting Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000008018 melting Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229920002799 BoPET Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000003522 acrylic cement Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004075 alteration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000903 blocking effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008602 contraction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
- -1 e.g. Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000945 filler Substances 0.000 description 1
- 231100001261 hazardous Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 239000012212 insulator Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- VNWKTOKETHGBQD-UHFFFAOYSA-N methane Chemical compound C VNWKTOKETHGBQD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000013021 overheating Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000007639 printing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000047 product Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000011664 signaling Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000013589 supplement Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000153 supplemental effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000009466 transformation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000007704 transition Effects 0.000 description 1
- 125000000391 vinyl group Chemical group [H]C([*])=C([H])[H] 0.000 description 1
- 229920002554 vinyl polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08G—TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEMS
- G08G1/00—Traffic control systems for road vehicles
- G08G1/09—Arrangements for giving variable traffic instructions
- G08G1/095—Traffic lights
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08C—TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS FOR MEASURED VALUES, CONTROL OR SIMILAR SIGNALS
- G08C17/00—Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B1/00—Details of electric heating devices
- H05B1/02—Automatic switching arrangements specially adapted to apparatus ; Control of heating devices
- H05B1/0227—Applications
- H05B1/0288—Applications for non specified applications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B3/00—Ohmic-resistance heating
- H05B3/02—Details
- H05B3/04—Waterproof or air-tight seals for heaters
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B3/00—Ohmic-resistance heating
- H05B3/02—Details
- H05B3/06—Heater elements structurally combined with coupling elements or holders
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B3/00—Ohmic-resistance heating
- H05B3/20—Heating elements having extended surface area substantially in a two-dimensional plane, e.g. plate-heater
- H05B3/34—Heating elements having extended surface area substantially in a two-dimensional plane, e.g. plate-heater flexible, e.g. heating nets or webs
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B2203/00—Aspects relating to Ohmic resistive heating covered by group H05B3/00
- H05B2203/011—Heaters using laterally extending conductive material as connecting means
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B2203/00—Aspects relating to Ohmic resistive heating covered by group H05B3/00
- H05B2203/02—Heaters using heating elements having a positive temperature coefficient
Landscapes
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
- Traffic Control Systems (AREA)
- Surface Heating Bodies (AREA)
Abstract
A traffic light with a housing, a light assembly mounted to the housing, a visor extending from the housing surrounding the light assembly. The traffic light further including a heater element having multiple layers.
Description
- This application is a continuation of U.S. Pat. Application No. 17/111,732 filed Dec. 4, 2020, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/943,283, filed Dec. 4, 2019, both of which are incorporated herein in their entirety.
- The disclosure generally relates to a heating system, and more specifically to a heating system for a traffic light.
- Snow and ice buildup on the lenses of a traffic light poses a safety hazard for drivers during winter storm conditions by blocking the lights. In the past there have been various methods used in an effort to mitigate or eliminate snow and ice buildup.
- Additionally, the replacement of traditional incandescent bulbs with light emitting diodes (LEDs) is on the rise. Use of LEDs includes energy savings as high as 90%. Additionally, traditional incandescent bulbs, that were widely used prior to the introduction of LEDs, are rated for two years of traffic use. Changing the bulbs is challenging and costly. Additionally, LEDs are becoming brighter and more energy efficient every year.
- The replacement of incandescent traffic lights with LEDs has reduced the amount of heat present at the lens face and in the visor volume of a traffic light. Consequently, a lower amount of heat increases the probability of snow and ice accumulation on the lens and in the visor volume for traffic light assemblies with LEDs relative to incandescent lights.
-
FIG. 1A is a schematic illustration of a light fixture including an example heating system. -
FIG. 1B is a front view of the light fixture ofFIG. 1 with a door opened. -
FIG. 2 is a top view of a heater element for the light fixture ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the heater element ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of a module for the heating system. -
FIG. 5 is a wiring schematic for the light fixture. -
FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of another example light fixture including solar panels. -
FIG. 7 is a top view of another example heater element. - Aspects of the disclosure described herein are directed to a traffic light with a heating system that is cost effective, easy to integrate, and will provide heat in and around a lens and visor of the traffic light. The heating system is efficient and provides significant energy savings over traditional technology. The heating system shown and described herein can be very effective at melting snow that has built up within the traffic light and can help prevent ice and snow from building up in the first place. In one example, the heating system includes a self-regulating heater element provided on the visor that at least partially surrounds the lens. A supplemental heater element can optionally be added around the perimeter of the traffic light.
- The heating system includes a heater element formed as a fixed wattage heater or a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) heater element. In the latter case, the PTC heater element contains conductor particles, e.g., a conductive carbon black filler material, dispersed in a polymer base or matrix having a crystalline structure. The crystalline structure of the matrix densely packs the conductor particles into its boundary so they are close enough together at room temperature to form chains and allow conductive paths of current to flow through the polymer insulator via these carbon chains.
- When the resistive layer is at room temperature, there are numerous carbon chains forming conductive paths through the matrix. In some embodiments, there are two conductive buses with each having a corresponding terminal connected to the resistive layer. When a voltage is applied across the resistive layer from the conductive buses, the layer carries a current via the conductive particles. As a result, the temperature of the resistive polymer layer rises until it exceeds the polymer’s transition temperature, causing the polymer to change from its initial crystalline phase to an amorphous phase. In the amorphous phase, the conductor particles are spaced further apart from one another [relative to the crystalline phase] and, thus, the electrical resistance of the resistive polymer layer increases until current is prevented from passing through the resistive layer. This, in tum, prevents current from passing through the conductive buses to prevent further heating thereof.
- An insulating layer on the heater element can be configured to work in relation to the heat generated by the resistive layer to direct heat in a direction or to block heat flow emanating towards a region. The insulating layer can be positioned as a layer over or under the resistive layer.
- The heating system described herein provides a low profile, e.g., flat, and highly adaptable/flexible device that can be integrated into a traffic light while providing heating at the same or similar level to an incandescent bulb for a similar application. The heating system can be adapted to fit the traffic light. This allows end users to conveniently retrofit the heater element to existing light fixtures and eliminate the cost of purchasing and replacing an entirely new light fixture.
- With this in mind,
FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate anexample traffic light 10. Thetraffic light 10 can be configured to control any types of traffic, including pedestrian traffic, railroad traffic, or other vehicle traffic. Thetraffic light 10 can be configured as a pedestrian/crosswalk light, a pre-emption receiver sensor, a railroad crossing light or other roadway signaling or indicating lights (not shown). - As shown in
FIG. 1A , thetraffic light 10 is a traffic light having threelight assemblies 20 for helping to control or direct vehicle traffic. To this end, therespective light assemblies 20 can provide red/“stop” indication, yellow/“warning” indication, green/“go” indication or turn indication. Regardless, it will be appreciated that the traffic light of the present disclosure can use any number oflight assemblies 20, including one, in any number of shapes and sizes. - Each
light assembly 20 includes alens 26 connected thereto that faces away from thehousing 12. Thelens 26 can be round, square, etc. In one non-limiting example, thelight assemblies 20 can include a series ofLEDs 24. Thehousing 12 can include one to five doors 14 (three doors shown) on which therespective light assemblies 20 are mounted. - A shroud or
visor 30 is connected to and extends from eachdoor 14. Thevisor 30 can be, for example, ball-cap or visor-shaped. In any case, thevisor 30 includes aninner surface 34 and anouter surface 32. Theinner surface 34 defines apassage 36 extending away from thedoor 14 along acenterline 38. Thevisor 30 can partially (as shown) or fully (not shown) encircle/surround thecenterline 38. Consequently, thevisor 30 can partially or fully encircle/surround therespective light assembly 20. As shown, anotch 40 extends radially through the bottom of thevisor 30 to thepassage 36. Thenotch 40 can allow for rain, snow, melted snow, etc. to flow out of thepassage 36 and away from thelens 26. Thelens 26 helps to focus light emitted by theLEDs 24 along thepassage 36, thereby increasing the visibility of thelight assembly 20. - A
heating system 39 is provided on thevisor 30 for helping to prevent/reduce the buildup of snow, ice, etc. on thelens 26. Theheating system 39 includes at least oneheater element 50. Theheater element 50 can be formed as a composite. One or more of theheater elements 50 can be secured to theinner surface 34 of each visor 30 (as shown) and/or the outer surface 32 (not shown). Consequently, the heater element(s) 50 can cover a portion of theinner surface 34 and/or theouter surface 32 or the entirety of either/both surfaces. In any case, theheater element 50 can be flexible or rigid. - Referring to
FIG. 1B , thedoors 14 are removably and pivotably connected to thehousing 12 and selectively close aninterior space 16 thereof. Anenclosure 22 is connected to thelens 26. A circuit board assembly (not shown) is provided within theenclosure 22 behind thelens 26. TheLEDs 24 can be mounted to the circuit board assembly so as to emit light through thelens 26. Theenclosure 22 is secured to thedoor 14 along a sealedinterface 23. In one example, the periphery of theenclosure 22 includes a gasket (not shown) for sealing theinterface 23. Wiring 151 connects thelight assemblies 20 to a common voltage supply device or power supply 196 (FIG. 5 ). - In one example, the
heater element 50 is a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) heater element. Alternatively, theheater element 50 can be formed as a fixed wattage heater (not shown). - When the
heater elements 50 are installed, at least one heater element tab orconnector tail 90 extends through the sealedinterface 23 between thelight assembly 20 and the associateddoor 14. This positions theconnector tail 90, and thereforeterminals interior space 16. Wiring 120 connects themodule 98 to theterminals door 14 is closed, thetabs 90 andterminals housing 12 away from wind, rain, snow, dirt. etc. It will be appreciated that thedoors 14 of thetraffic light 10 can be removable, thereby enabling a maintenance technician to install/inspect thelight assemblies 20 and associatedheater elements 50 on the doors at a more desirable location, e.g., on the ground, in a vehicle, at a facility, etc. -
FIG. 2 is an assembledheater element 50. Theheater element 50 includes aninterface layer 80. Theinterface layer 80 helps to connect theheater element 50 to theinner surface 34 of thevisor 30 and completely seals theheater element 50. Theconnector tail 90 includes theterminals heater element 50. -
FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the heater element. Theheater element 50 includes a first, orcarrier layer 51, made of an electrically insulating material, e.g., Mylar®, that can be impervious to water and other debris to extend the service life of the products. Thecarrier layer 51 includes atab 49 and can be made the same color as theinner surface 34 of thevisor 30, e.g., painted black, to prevent altering the light output of theLEDs 24. - The
heater element 50 further includes apolymer base layer 52 formed from a conductive material. Thepolymer base layer 52 can be, for example, a screen printed, flexible polymeric ink. Thepolymer base layer 52 includes a first bus 54 andsecond bus 56 spaced from each other. The first bus 54 includes abase 58 andfinger portions 60 extending away from the base. Thesecond bus 56 includes abase 64 andfinger portions 66 extending away from the base. Thefinger portions finger portions polymer base layer 52 includes atab 59 aligned with and overlying thetab 49 on thecarrier layer 51. - A
resistive layer 70 is connected to, e.g., screen printed on, thepolymer base layer 52 and can be modified or formed in desired shapes to electrically connect the first bus 54 to thesecond bus 56. Theresistive layer 70 can be formed in one or more pieces. Theresistive layer 70 includes atab 71 aligned with and overlying thetabs - In one example, the
resistive layer 70 can be positioned on top of thepolymer base layer 52 to sandwich the same between thecarrier layer 51 and theresistive layer 70. In another example, theresistive layer 70 can be located between thepolymer base layer 52 and thecarrier layer 51. In any case, theresistive layer 70 can have a higher electrical resistance than thepolymer base layer 52 and experience a PTC effect when heated by current. - That said, the
resistive layer 70 will ultimately reach a designed steady-state temperature in which current is restricted/slowed from passing through the resistive layer and, thus, restricted/slowed from passing through thebuses 54, 56. Theresistive layer 70 will thereafter draw a reduced amperage required to maintain the steady state temperature, thereby self-regulating its temperature and helping to prevent overheating. Theresistive layer 70 will stay “warm” - remaining in the high electrical resistance state as long as power is applied. - On the other hand, removing power will reverse the phase transformation - causing contraction of the matrix - and allow the carbon chains to re-form as the polymer matrix re-crystallizes. The electrical resistance of the resistive layer 70 (and therefore of the heater element 50) thereby returns to its original value. In other words, the
resistive layer 70 is electrically conductive at room temperature but heating the resistive layer reduces its electrical conductivity until current is restricted/slowed from passing therethrough. - In one example, the
interface layer 80 directly engages theinner surface 34. Theinterface layer 80 can be directly connected to at least one of thepolymer base layer 52 and theresistive layer 70. Theinterface layer 80 can be, for example, a double-sided adhesive, e.g., acrylic adhesive or thermally conductive foam adhesive. - The
interface layer 80 can include a peelable adhesive liner or backing including, for example, paper, vinyl or mixtures thereof (not shown). Alternatively, or additionally, mechanical fasteners (not shown) can connect theheater element 50 to thevisor 30. Theheater element 50 can also be provided in thevisor 30 via overmolding, heat staking or by welding the heater element between thesurfaces 32, 34 (not shown). Regardless, when theheater element 50 is assembled (FIG. 2 ), thecomponents respective tabs connector tail 90. - The
terminals second terminal 82 connected to thesecond bus 56. In one example, theterminals connector tail 90 in a manner that electrically connects the terminals to therespective buses 54, 56. Theterminals - Referring to
FIG. 4 , theheating system 39 further includes acontrol module 98 for connecting eachheater element 50 to a power source and regulating the power distribution to each heater element. To this end, themodule 98 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) 100 having a controller and being connected to a power source via aconnector 102. The voltage input to themodule 98 can be, for example, 48 VDC or 120 VAC. - A series of
connectors circuit board 100 to enable one or more of theheater elements 50 to be connected to themodule 98 via theterminals more sensors 118, e.g., temperature sensor, humidity sensor, and/or snow sensor, can be connected to aconnector 113 on the circuit board. Thesensors 118 can be positioned inside oroutside housing 12 and monitor the environmental conditions in/around eachlens 26. The connectors 102-113 can be standard wire-to-board connectors, e.g., PID connectors, GEZ connectors, HYV connectors and the like. More or fewer of the connectors 104-113 are contemplated. - The
module 98 can include athermostat 140 associated with eachconnector separate thermostat 140 can be associated with eachconnector thermostat 140 controls power flow between themodule 98 and eachheater element 50. In one example, thethermostat 140 enables current flow from themodule 98 to thecorresponding heater element 50 when the temperature around the correspondinglight assembly 20 falls below a predetermined value, e.g., about 0° C. On the other hand, thethermostat 140 prevents current flow from themodule 98 to eachheater element 50 when the temperature is above the predetermined value. - It will be appreciated that the
thermostat 140 can be omitted entirely. In this construction, themodule 98 can be connected to or provided with a breaker (not shown) that either continuously enables or continuously prevents current flow to the connectors 104-112 regardless of environmental conditions. In other words, theheater elements 50 are either always on or always off depending solely on whether the user has activated the breaker. - The
module 98 is secured to thetraffic light housing 12 within the interior space 16 (see alsoFIG. 1B ). To this end, fasteners can extend through mountingopenings 114 in themodule 98 to secure the module to existing screw holes/standoffs within the housing 12 (not shown). Alternatively, themodule 98 can be secured to thehousing 12 with mounting tape/foam, Velcro®, etc. Regardless, asingle module 98 can be used for all thelight assemblies 20 in thetraffic light 10 or each light assembly can have its own module associated therewith. -
FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic diagram of a circuit for thetraffic light 10 in which twoheater elements 50 are secured to theinner surface 32 of thevisor 30 associated with onelens 26. While two heater elements are shown, it should be understood that oneheater element 50 can be utilized alone. - The
wiring 151 connects thelight assemblies 20 to a common voltage supply device orpower supply 196. Further, wiring 120 electrically connects theterminals heater element 50 to thecorresponding connector module 98.Additional wiring 121 also connect any sensor(s) 118 to themodule 98. Wiring 130 connects thepower supply 196 to theconnector 102 on themodule 98 to power the module. - During operation of the
traffic light 10, thethermostat 140 passively monitors the ambient outside temperature. When the temperature falls below a predetermined value on one or more of thelenses 26, thethermostat 140 automatically closes to initiate/enable current flow to theheater elements 50 associated with the cold lenses. As the temperature of theheater elements 50 rise and cause the PTC effect, the heat is transferred to thevisors 30, which thereby helps to prevent, reduce or remove snow and ice accumulation on thelens 26 associated therewith. Heat from theheater element 50 can also directly heat the associated lens and snow thereon. In other words, thelenses 26 can be directly and indirectly heated by theheater elements 50 associated therewith. - The
thermostat 140 can continue enabling current flow to theheater elements 50 so long as the air temperature around thevisor 30 is below the predetermined value, thereby helping to ensure light from theLEDs 24 is visible through thelens 26 despite inclement weather. Any melted snow can flow along theinner surface 32 andheater element 50 and out of thevisor 30 through thenotch 40. Once the air temperature around thevisor 30 reaches the predetermined value thethermostat 140 automatically opens to cut off power supply to theheater elements 50. - Alternatively, or additionally, the sensor(s) 118 can monitor the temperature, humidity, onset of snow and/or accumulation thereof around the
lenses 26 and send signals to themodule 98 indicative thereof. Themodule 98 controller can evaluate the signals and selectively supply current to theheater elements 50 in response thereto. - In one example, the
module 98 controller is configured to initiate supplying power to theheater elements 50 when the air temperature around thevisor 30 falls below about 38° F. and subsequently cut power to the heater elements when the air temperature reaches about 42° F. Alternatively or additionally, themodule 98 controller can also take humidity into account, e.g., supply power to theheater elements 50 when the air temperature around thevisor 30 falls below about 38° F. and the relative humidity is above 50%. Themodule 98 controller can also selectively power theheater elements 50 when thesnow sensor 118 detects an amount of snowfall on/around thelens 26 that exceeds a predetermined amount. Other factors that can be used to determineheater element 50 activation, including when and how long, include a timer circuit and/or battery backup sensor. - The
module 98 can be controlled wirelessly by a web-based application or app that allows a user to directly control individual heating of theheater elements 50 regardless of the sensed environmental conditions. In other words, the app allows a user to override or ignore any signals received by themodule 98 from thesensors 118 orthermostat 140. - In another example shown in
FIG. 6 , solar panels orcells 170 can be secured to theouter surfaces 32 of thevisors 30 for powering theheating system 39, including themodule 98 andcomponents solar panels 170 can also power thelight assemblies 20. A rechargeable battery (not shown) can be electrically connected to thesolar panels 170 and mounted in theinterior space 16 of thehousing 12 to protect the battery from the elements. The battery can replace or supplement thepower supply 196. When theheater elements 50 are in use, heat therefrom radiates outward through thevisor 30 and heats thesolar panels 170, thereby helping to keep snow and ice from building thereon. - Another
example heater element 250 is illustrated inFIG. 7 . Features in theheater element 250 that are similar to those inheater element 50 are given reference numbers 200 higher. Theheater element 250 includes the carrier layer (not shown) andbase layer 252 withcorresponding busses fingers resistive layer 270 is provided over, e.g., printed on, thebase layer 252 in a manner that resembles a checkboard pattern. More specifically, theresistive layer 270 is formed as a series ofconductive portions 272 spaced apart from one another by non-conductive portions, i.e., voids orempty spaces 274, arranged collectively in a checkboard pattern. In this manner, theresistive layer 270 does not cover every portion of thebase layer 252, i.e., there are discontinuities in the printing pattern. - The checkerboard pattern exemplifies how the resistive layer can be provided in the heater element in any desirable configuration, e.g., symmetric, asymmetric, random, patterned, variable density, etc. This flexibility allows the resistive layer to have a desired watt density at each and every position on the heater element. Consequently, a specific heating profile can be provided depending on the application where the heating system will be used.
- The heating systems shown and described herein, e.g., heater elements formed as fixed wattage heaters or phase-changing heater elements, are advantageous in helping to avoid a hazardous condition as a result of snow buildup on LED lights, such as traffic lights, pedestrian crosswalk lights, railroad crossings, and pre-emptive receiver sensors.
- The PTC heater element may be installed without the need for sensors, thermostats, or other feedback electronics. The PTC heater element is efficient and runs at very low steady state current. Current draw increases as temperatures decrease or snow attempts to stick to the surface, returning to steady state after melting. The PTC heater element is configurable to many different shapes, contours, and sizes of visors. Custom shapes ensure proper assembly and flexibility.
- What have been described above are examples of the present disclosure. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the present disclosure, but one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the present disclosure are possible. Accordingly, the present disclosure is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
- Further aspects of the disclosure are provided by the subject matter of the following clauses:
- A heating system for a traffic light, the heating system comprising a heater element having multiple layers including an interface layer for connection with a portion of the traffic light and a resistive layer for regulating a current.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, further comprising a control module for controlling a supply of power from a power source to the heater element.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein the resistive layer maintains a high electrical resistance when connected to the power source.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein a reduced amperage is required to maintain a steady state temperature for the resistive layer.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein the heater element further comprises a carrier layer and the resistive layer is located between the interface layer and the carrier layer.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein the heater element further comprises a polymer base layer and the resistive layer is located between the polymer base layer and the carrier layer.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein the carrier layer is made of an electrically insulating material.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein the polymer base layer is made of a conductive material.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein the portion of the traffic light is a visor surrounding a lens of the traffic light and the interface layer is mounted to the visor.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein at least a portion of the heater element is screen printed directly onto the visor.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein the heater element is mounted to the visor with adhesive.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein the heater element is heat staked or overmolded to the visor.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein the heater element is welded between the inner surface and an outer surface of the visor.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein the interface layer seals the heater element.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein the interface layer is an adhesive layer.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein the heater element is a composite.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, further comprising a circuit board having a series of connectors, wherein the control module is connected to the power source via at least one connector in the series of connectors and the control module is connected to the heater element via another at least one connector in the series of connectors.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, further comprising at least one sensor for determining when the heater element should be energized, the at least one sensor connected to the control module via yet another at least one connector in the series of connectors.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein the at least one sensor is a temperature sensor.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein the at least one sensor is a humidity sensor.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein the at least one sensor is a snow sensor.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein the resistive layer experiences a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) effect when heated by current.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein the heater element is a fixed wattage heater element.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, wherein the heater element includes a connector tail on which electrical terminals are mounted.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, further comprising a circuit board with a series of connectors for connecting the heater element to a module via terminals.
- The heating system of any preceding clause, further comprising at least one sensor connected at least one connector on the circuit board.
Claims (20)
1. A heating system for a traffic light, the heating system comprising:
a heater element having multiple layers including an interface layer for connection with a portion of the traffic light and a resistive layer for regulating a current.
2. The heating system of claim 1 , further comprising a control module for controlling a supply of power from a power source to the heater element.
3. The heating system of claim 2 , wherein the resistive layer maintains a high electrical resistance when connected to the power source.
4. The heating system of claim 3 , wherein a reduced amperage is required to maintain a steady state temperature for the resistive layer.
5. The heating system of claim 1 , wherein the heater element further comprises a carrier layer and the resistive layer is located between the interface layer and the carrier layer.
6. The heating system of claim 5 , wherein the heater element further comprises a polymer base layer and the resistive layer is located between the polymer base layer and the carrier layer.
7. The heating system of claim 6 , wherein the carrier layer is made of an electrically insulating material.
8. The heating system of claim 7 , wherein the polymer base layer is made of a conductive material.
9. The heating system of claim 1 , wherein the portion of the traffic light is a visor surrounding a lens of the traffic light and the interface layer is mounted to the visor.
10. The heating system of claim 9 , wherein at least a portion of the heater element is screen printed directly onto the visor.
11. The heating system of claim 1 , wherein the interface layer seals the heater element.
12. The heating system of claim 1 , wherein the interface layer is an adhesive layer.
13. The heating system of claim 1 , wherein the heater element is a composite.
14. The heating system of claim 2 , further comprising a circuit board having a series of connectors, wherein the control module is connected to the power source via at least one connector in the series of connectors and the control module is connected to the heater element via another at least one connector in the series of connectors.
15. The heating system of claim 14 , further comprising at least one sensor for determining when the heater element should be energized, the at least one sensor connected to the control module via yet another at least one connector in the series of connectors.
16. The heating system of claim 15 , wherein the at least one sensor is a temperature sensor.
17. The heating system of claim 15 , wherein the at least one sensor is a humidity sensor.
18. The heating system of claim 1 , wherein the resistive layer experiences a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) effect when heated by current.
19. The heating system of claim 1 , wherein the heater element is a fixed wattage heater element.
20. The heating system of claim 1 , wherein the heater element includes a connector tail on which electrical terminals are mounted.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US18/358,750 US20230368661A1 (en) | 2019-12-04 | 2023-07-25 | Heating system |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201962943283P | 2019-12-04 | 2019-12-04 | |
US17/111,732 US20210174676A1 (en) | 2019-12-04 | 2020-12-04 | Led light fixture |
US18/358,750 US20230368661A1 (en) | 2019-12-04 | 2023-07-25 | Heating system |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US17/111,732 Continuation US20210174676A1 (en) | 2019-12-04 | 2020-12-04 | Led light fixture |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20230368661A1 true US20230368661A1 (en) | 2023-11-16 |
Family
ID=76210960
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US17/111,732 Abandoned US20210174676A1 (en) | 2019-12-04 | 2020-12-04 | Led light fixture |
US18/358,750 Pending US20230368661A1 (en) | 2019-12-04 | 2023-07-25 | Heating system |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US17/111,732 Abandoned US20210174676A1 (en) | 2019-12-04 | 2020-12-04 | Led light fixture |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US20210174676A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2023129509A1 (en) * | 2021-12-30 | 2023-07-06 | Cubon Michael M | A heater insert for traffic signals |
US20240071218A1 (en) * | 2022-08-23 | 2024-02-29 | Tramec, Llc | Traffic signal assembly with heating element |
Family Cites Families (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP2003303399A (en) * | 2002-02-09 | 2003-10-24 | Yasuto Fukui | Snow melting device and feeding method of traffic light |
US20080211309A1 (en) * | 2007-03-01 | 2008-09-04 | Nolte William J | Systems and methods for modular battery replacement in aircraft |
US9820016B2 (en) * | 2012-02-13 | 2017-11-14 | Sony Mobile Communications Inc. | Methods of communicating identification information and a responsive command via short-range communications, and related devices |
US20150055944A1 (en) * | 2013-08-21 | 2015-02-26 | George A. Van Straten | Heated Lamp and Heated Bulb Assembly for Lamp |
US20160148507A1 (en) * | 2014-11-20 | 2016-05-26 | Blyncsy, Inc. | Traffic system for monitoring, analyzing, and modulating traffic patterns |
NL2013929B1 (en) * | 2014-12-05 | 2016-10-11 | Gemex Consultancy B V | Power optimization for battery powered street lighting system. |
US20170111960A1 (en) * | 2015-10-20 | 2017-04-20 | Sahar Arafa | Vehicle covering and warming system |
US20200027343A1 (en) * | 2017-01-06 | 2020-01-23 | The Regents Of The University Of Colorado, A Body Corporate | Snow and Ice Mitigating Traffic Light Lenses and Lens Covers |
US10875430B2 (en) * | 2018-05-14 | 2020-12-29 | Lear Corporation | Vehicle interior assemblies having leather cover with electrically conductive coating |
-
2020
- 2020-12-04 US US17/111,732 patent/US20210174676A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2023
- 2023-07-25 US US18/358,750 patent/US20230368661A1/en active Pending
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20210174676A1 (en) | 2021-06-10 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20230368661A1 (en) | Heating system | |
US7914162B1 (en) | LED light assembly having heating board | |
CA2834520C (en) | Snow-melting led traffic signal | |
US7948190B2 (en) | Apparatus and methods for the thermal regulation of light emitting diodes in signage | |
CN101629689B (en) | Vehicle lighting device | |
CN101629690B (en) | Vehicle lighting device | |
US8563898B1 (en) | Detection and removal of snow and ice on a lens of a light emitting diode lighting fixture | |
US8858006B2 (en) | Light emitting diode lamp | |
KR20140073510A (en) | Road markers or light based warning device | |
CN104619994A (en) | Wall ring for a fan with heating element | |
US10495283B2 (en) | Lamp | |
US20150055944A1 (en) | Heated Lamp and Heated Bulb Assembly for Lamp | |
US20220024369A1 (en) | Light assembly heater systems, apparatus, and methods | |
US20220221126A1 (en) | Apparatus for defrosting a vehicle light | |
US11326760B2 (en) | Light assembly heater systems, apparatus, and methods | |
US20060011596A1 (en) | Screen printed heater for vehicle elements | |
JP4671052B2 (en) | Lens cover for vehicle lamp and vehicle lamp | |
JP3082946U (en) | Outdoor antenna freeze prevention device | |
CN201937846U (en) | Universal intelligent heating device for self-service equipment | |
JP2018025902A (en) | Power supply device for snow melting device of led traffic signal and control method thereof | |
JP3161877U (en) | Traffic lights | |
KR200373214Y1 (en) | Anti-Trimming Road Traffic Signs Using Carbon Heate | |
JP3163928U (en) | LED traffic signal | |
CN217283424U (en) | Heating device for heating outdoor terminal box and outdoor terminal box | |
WO2023129509A1 (en) | A heater insert for traffic signals |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: TRAMEC TERMICO TECH, L.L.C., ILLINOIS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:CUBON, MICHAEL M.;REEL/FRAME:064548/0018 Effective date: 20211202 |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: DOCKETED NEW CASE - READY FOR EXAMINATION |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: NON FINAL ACTION MAILED |