WO2000005540A1 - Generateur d'air chaud - Google Patents

Generateur d'air chaud Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2000005540A1
WO2000005540A1 PCT/IE1999/000075 IE9900075W WO0005540A1 WO 2000005540 A1 WO2000005540 A1 WO 2000005540A1 IE 9900075 W IE9900075 W IE 9900075W WO 0005540 A1 WO0005540 A1 WO 0005540A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
generating device
hot air
air
air generating
heat exchange
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IE1999/000075
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Alfred Peter Oglesby
John Paul Oglesby
Original Assignee
Oglesby & Butler Research & Development Limited
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Oglesby & Butler Research & Development Limited filed Critical Oglesby & Butler Research & Development Limited
Priority to EP99933097A priority Critical patent/EP1099083A1/fr
Priority to AU49265/99A priority patent/AU4926599A/en
Publication of WO2000005540A1 publication Critical patent/WO2000005540A1/fr

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D20/00—Hair drying devices; Accessories therefor
    • A45D20/04—Hot-air producers
    • A45D20/06—Hot-air producers heated otherwise than electrically; ventilated by muscle power
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D1/00—Curling-tongs, i.e. tongs for use when hot; Curling-irons, i.e. irons for use when hot; Accessories therefor
    • A45D1/02—Curling-tongs, i.e. tongs for use when hot; Curling-irons, i.e. irons for use when hot; Accessories therefor with means for internal heating, e.g. by liquid fuel
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
    • F24H1/00—Water heaters, e.g. boilers, continuous-flow heaters or water-storage heaters
    • F24H1/0027—Water heaters, e.g. boilers, continuous-flow heaters or water-storage heaters using fluid fuel
    • F24H1/0045—Water heaters, e.g. boilers, continuous-flow heaters or water-storage heaters using fluid fuel with catalytic combustion
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
    • F24H3/00—Air heaters
    • F24H3/02—Air heaters with forced circulation
    • F24H3/04—Air heaters with forced circulation the air being in direct contact with the heating medium, e.g. electric heating element
    • F24H3/0488—Air heaters with forced circulation the air being in direct contact with the heating medium, e.g. electric heating element using fluid fuel
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D20/00—Hair drying devices; Accessories therefor
    • A45D20/48—Hair-drying combs or hair-drying brushes, with internal heating means
    • A45D20/50—Hair-drying combs or hair-drying brushes, with internal heating means and provision for an air stream
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45D—HAIRDRESSING OR SHAVING EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT FOR COSMETICS OR COSMETIC TREATMENTS, e.g. FOR MANICURING OR PEDICURING
    • A45D20/00—Hair drying devices; Accessories therefor
    • A45D20/04—Hot-air producers
    • A45D20/06—Hot-air producers heated otherwise than electrically; ventilated by muscle power
    • A45D2020/065—Hot-air producers heated otherwise than electrically; ventilated by muscle power heated by gas or fuel
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
    • Y02B30/00—Energy efficient heating, ventilation or air conditioning [HVAC]

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a hot air generating device, and in particular, though not limited to a hot air blower.
  • Hot air generating devices such as hot air blowers are used for many purposes, both industrial and domestic.
  • hairdryers provide a hot or warm air stream for drying hair.
  • Certain hair curling or shaping devices also provide a warm or hot air output.
  • hair dryers provide a single warm air stream, which can be outputted through different shaped nozzles for providing one or more warm air streams of varying cross-section.
  • a tubular barrel may be provided around which the hair is wound, and the tubular barrel may be provided with radially extending members, such as, for example, comb-like teeth.
  • a plurality of air outlet openings may be provided from the tubular barrel intermediate the radial teeth for delivering hot or warm air through hair wound around the tubular barrel.
  • Industrial hot air generating devices and hot air blowers have many uses, for example, applying a stream of warm or hot air to heat shrinkable plastics tubes or sleeves, for example, of the type for providing insulation for wires, multi-core cables and the like, water carrying conduits, and also for moulding and shaping plastics materials and the like.
  • One such type of hot air generating device is electrically powered, and because of the power requirement must be connected to a mains electricity supply.
  • an electrically powered heating element is located in a tubular housing, and a fan located upstream of the heating element is powered by an electrically powered motor for passing air over and through the heating element for heating the air. The heated air is then delivered through a single air outlet or a plurality of air outlets as desired.
  • electrically powered hot air generating devices are suitable only for hair drying and hair treating purposes.
  • the air handling capacity and the air temperature of the heated air of such electrically powered devices is generally inadequate for industrial application. Because such devices require main electricity for their powering, they are only suitable for using where a mains electricity supply is available, and thus, do not lend themselves to portability.
  • Gas or oil powered flame blow torches in general, are required for Industrial Applications.
  • torches suffer from significant disadvantages, since the heated air stream exiting from the torch in many cases also includes the distal end of the flame.
  • an operator is particularly careful in using such torches burning of the material on which the heated stream is being played can result in burning of the material. This is particularly so in cases where such blow torches are used for shrinking sleeves or tubes of plastics material.
  • U.S. Patent Specification No. 4,726,767 discloses a hot air generating device in which the hot air stream is heated by a gas catalytic combustion element which flamelessly converts gas to heat.
  • the device of this U.S. Specification comprises a tubular housing within which at a downstream end the gas catalytic combustion element is located.
  • a fan, which is driven by a battery powered electric motor is located in the tubular housing upstream of the gas catalytic combustion element and passes air around and through the gas catalytic combustion element for heating thereof. Heated air and exhaust gases are delivered through an outlet which may be put to various uses.
  • gas from a liquid gas reservoir in a handle of the device is delivered through a jet and then into a venturi mixer where the gas is mixed with air.
  • the gas/air mixture is delivered through a burner and is initially ignited to bum with a flame for heating the catalytic element to its ignition temperature.
  • a temperature sensor monitors the temperature of the burner to ascertain when the catalytic element has reached its ignition temperature, at which stage the fan motor is activated for passing air through the tubular housing.
  • a cowling is arranged around the venturi mixer for directing air from the fan into the venturi mixer, for in turn increasing the proportion of air in the gas/air mixture which extinguishes the flame. Flameless combustion of the gas/air mixture continues in the catalytic element.
  • the device of this U.S. Patent Specification No. 4,726,767 suffers from a number of disadvantages.
  • the unit is relatively unstable, in that it is prone to failure as a result of extinguishing of the catalytic element due to chilling of all or part of the catalytic element as a result of the passage of the fan assisted air through the catalytic element.
  • Fan assisted air is also passed over the outer peripheral surface of the catalytic element, and this can also lead to chilling, and thus extinguishing of the catalytic element.
  • the present invention is directed towards providing such a hot air generating device.
  • a hot air generating device comprising a main housing which defines a hollow interior region, a main air inlet being provided to the hollow interior region, and a main air outlet being provided from the hollow interior region, a gas catalytic combustion element located for heating air passing from the main air inlet through the hollow interior region to the main air outlet, a fuel gas supply means for supplying fuel gas to the gas catalytic combustion element, and an air urging means for urging air from the main air inlet through the hollow interior region for heating thereof and outwardly from the main air outlet for providing a heated air output stream, wherein a heat exchange means is located in the hollow interior region between the main air inlet and the main air outlet and defines with the main housing a heat exchange passageway for accommodating and heating air passing from the main air inlet to the main air outlet, the gas catalytic combustion element being located for heating the heat exchange means for in turn heating the air passing through the heating exchange passageway.
  • the gas catalytic combustion element is located so that exhaust gases from the gas catalytic combustion element are outputted through the main air outlet for mixing with the heated air output stream.
  • the gas catalytic combustion element is located relative to the heat exchange means so that direct contact between the gas catalytic combustion element and the air being heated by the heat exchange means is minimised.
  • the gas catalytic combustion element is located relative to the heat exchange means so that direct contact between the gas catalytic combustion element and the air being heated by the heat exchange means is avoided for avoiding chilling of the gas catalytic combustion element.
  • the heat exchange means acts as a shield for shielding the gas catalytic combustion element from air being urged by the air urging means through the hollow interior region.
  • the heat exchange means defines a combustion chamber within which the gas catalytic combustion element is located.
  • the heat exchange means defines an exhaust gas outlet from the combustion chamber for outputting exhaust gases from the combustion chamber into the heated air so that the heated air output stream comprises a mixture of heated air and exhaust gases.
  • a fuel gas inlet is provided in the heat exchange means to the combustion chamber for communicating with the gas supply means for receiving fuel gas therefrom.
  • the gas supply means sealably engages the fuel gas inlet.
  • the main housing comprises a tubular portion which defines a main central axis.
  • the heat exchange means comprises an elongated tubular heat exchange housing located in the tubular portion of the main housing, the heat exchange housing defining a secondary central axis which extends parallel to the main central axis, and preferably, the main and secondary central axes defined respectively by the main housing and the heat exchange housing coincide with each other.
  • the heat exchange passageway extends parallel to the main central axis, and ideally, the heat exchange passageway is of annular shape.
  • a plurality of heat exchange fins extend radially from the heat exchange housing into the heat exchange passageway.
  • the heat exchange fins are spaced-apart circumferentially around the heat exchange housing.
  • the heat exchange fins are elongated heat exchange fins, and extend parallel to the main central axis.
  • the mixing means comprises a venturi mixing means having at least one secondary air inlet thereto.
  • each secondary air inlet to the venturi mixing means is located within the hollow interior region of the main housing in a position substantially shielded from the air urging means.
  • the air urging means is located upstream of the heat exchange means.
  • the air urging means comprises an air blower.
  • the air blower comprises a fan.
  • the air blower comprises an axial fan, and preferably, the fan is driven by a motor located downstream of the fan.
  • the fan and motor are located co-axially relative to each other, and are located co-axially with the main central axis.
  • a receiving means is provided in the main housing for receiving a portable power source for powering the air urging means.
  • the portable power source is located in the receiving means.
  • the portable power source is a thermo-electric generator, adapted to be heated by the heat exchange means.
  • a control means is provided for controlling the fuel gas supply means and power to the air urging means.
  • a safety cut-out means for isolating the gas catalytic combustion element from the fuel gas supply means for preventing over heating of the device.
  • the safety cut-out means is responsive to the temperature of the heat exchange means exceeding a predetermined temperature.
  • the safety cut-out means is responsive to the temperature of the main housing exceeding a predetermined temperature, or additionally or alternatively the safety cut-out means is responsive to the air urging means ceasing to urge air, or additionally or altematively the safety cut-out means is responsive to the temperature of the heated air output stream exceeding a predetermined temperature.
  • a temperature regulating means for regulating the temperature of the heated air output stream, the temperature regulating means controlling the fuel gas supply means for controlling the supply of fuel gas to the gas catalytic combustion element.
  • a temperature monitoring means is provided, the temperature regulating being responsive to the temperature monitoring means.
  • the temperature monitoring means is provided for monitoring the temperature of the heat exchange means. Additionally or alternatively, the temperature monitoring means is provided for monitoring the temperature of the main housing. Additionally or alternatively, the temperature monitoring means is provided for monitoring the temperature of the heated air output stream.
  • the safety cut-out means is responsive to the temperature monitoring means.
  • the temperature monitoring means is a thermo- magnetic monitoring means.
  • the temperature monitoring means is a bimetal monitoring means.
  • the temperature monitoring means is a heat sensitive fuse.
  • the temperature monitoring means is a bead thermocouple.
  • the temperature monitoring means is a thermistor.
  • the device is portable, and preferably, the device is of relatively small size suitable for being hand held.
  • the main housing is adapted for receiving a nozzle for communicating with the main air outlet for delivering a heated air output stream.
  • the nozzle defines a nozzle outlet shaped to deliver a heated air output stream of a desired transverse cross-section.
  • the main housing is adapted for receiving a hair treatment attachment for receiving hair to be treated, the hair treatment attachment communicating with the main air outlet for receiving heated air therefrom, and at least one secondary outlet being provided from the hair treatment attachment for outputting heated air to the hair.
  • the hair treatment attachment comprises an elongated tubular barrel about which hair to be treated may be wound or engaged for curling or otherwise shaping the hair.
  • a plurality of secondary air outlets are provided from the hair treatment attachment, the secondary air outlets communicating with the main air outlet for delivering a plurality of heated air output streams through the secondary air outlets, and in turn through hair wound onto or engaged on the hair treatment attachment.
  • the secondary air outlets are located in the tubular barrel at longitudinally and circumferentially spaced-apart intervals, and are arranged for directing the heated air output streams in generally radial directions from the hair treatment attachment.
  • the hair treatment attachment is adapted for securing to the main housing with the hair treatment attachment extending parallel to the main central axis of the main housing.
  • the hair treatment attachment is adapted for securing to the main housing so that the hair treatment attachment extends co- axially with the main central axis.
  • the hair treatment attachment comprises a plurality of radially extending comb like teeth extending therefrom.
  • the main housing terminates in the hair treatment attachment, and preferably, the heat exchange means is located in the hair treatment attachment.
  • the hot air generating device is adapted for delivering one or more heated air output streams at a temperature suitable for drying, setting, shaping, curling or otherwise treating hair.
  • the hot air generating device is adapted for delivering one or more heated air output streams at a temperature suitable for shrinking a heat shrinkable plastics sleeve, a conduit of plastics material, or for moulding or shaping mouldable plastics material.
  • the hot air generating device is adapted for delivering one or more heated air output streams at a temperature suitable for paint stripping.
  • the hot air generating device provides a heated air output stream, which can be maintained at a relatively constant temperature.
  • the hot air generating device operates relatively efficiently, and the gas/air ratio of the gas/air mixture is maintained relatively constant. There is virtually no danger of the gas catalytic combustion element being extinguished during use.
  • the heat exchange means forms the combustion chamber, and the gas catalytic combustion element is located within the combustion chamber, the heat exchange means acts as a shield for shielding the gas catalytic combustion element from the direct affect of air being urged through the heat exchange passageway by the air urging means.
  • the air urging means has little or no affect on the gas/air ratio of the gas/air mixture delivered from the mixing means to the combustion chamber.
  • the gas/air ratio of the gas/air mixture is substantially determined by the rate of flow of fuel gas through the mixing means.
  • the rate at which the air is being urged through the hollow interior region, and any changes in the rate at which the air is being urged through the hollow interior region by the air urging means has little or no affect on the gas/air ratio of the gas/air mixture.
  • the hot air generating device When the hot air generating device is adapted for use as a hair treatment device, a particularly effective and efficient hair treatment device is provided.
  • Fig. 1 is a schematic cut away perspective view of a hot air generating device according to the invention
  • Fig. 2 is a front end elevational view of the device of Fig. 1 ,
  • Fig. 5 is a transverse cross-sectional side elevational view of the device of Fig. 1 on the line IV - IV of Fig. 2,
  • Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the hot air generating device of Fig. 1 with a hair treatment attachment mounted thereon,
  • Fig. 7 is a cut away perspective view of the hot air generating device of Fig. 1 with the attachment of Fig. 6 mounted thereon,
  • Fig. 9 is a partly cut away perspective view of a hair treatment device according to another embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a portion of a hot air generating device according to another embodiment of the invention.
  • the hot air generating device is particularly suitable for receiving hair treatment attachments 2a and 2b illustrated in Figs. 6 to 8 for adapting the hot air generating device 1 as a hair treatment device, as will be described below.
  • the hot air generating device 1 comprises a main housing 3 of injection moulded plastics material, or indeed of any other suitable material.
  • the main housing 3 in this embodiment of the invention is a stepped tubular housing of circular transverse cross-section, which defines a longitudinally extending main central axis 7 which extends longitudinally centrally through the main housing 3.
  • a heat exchange means namely, a heat exchanger 15 for heating air for outputting through the main outlet 12 is co-axially located in a portion of the hollow interior region 10 defined by the downstream portion 8 of the main housing 3.
  • the heat exchanger 15 defines with the downstream portion 8 of the main housing 3 an annular heat exchange passageway 17 through which air from the air inlet 11 is urged to the main air outlet 12 for heating thereof.
  • An air urging means namely, an axial flow fan 18 is located in the hollow interior region 10 formed by the intermediate portion 9 for drawing air through the main air inlet 11 for in turn urging the air through the heat exchange passageway 17, and thus through the main air outlet 12 for delivering a heated air output stream from the main air outlet 12.
  • An electrically powered variable speed motor 19 also located in the hollow interior region 10 defined by the intermediate portion 9 powers the fan 18.
  • the motor 19 and the fan 18 are axially aligned and define a common central axis which coincides with the main central axis 7.
  • a power source for powering the motor 19 comprises four rechargeable electric batteries 20 which are located at equi-spaced-apart intervals circumferentially within the hollow interior region 10 defined by the upstream portion 5. The powering of the motor 19 by the batteries 20 is described below.
  • a battery charging connection (not shown) and a battery charge control electrical circuit are provided in the handle 6 for facilitating connection to a mains electricity supply for recharging the batteries 20.
  • a fuel gas supply means for supplying fuel gas to the combustion chamber 25 comprises a fuel gas source, namely, a rechargeable fuel gas reservoir 30 located in the hollow interior region 10 formed by the upstream portion 5 of the main housing 3.
  • the reservoir 30 is co-axially located with the main central axis 7, and defines with the main housing 3 a receiving means, namely, an annular receiving area 31 for receiving the batteries 20.
  • a charging valve 31 is located in the end of the reservoir 30 adjacent to the main air inlet 11 for re-charging the reservoir 30 with liquid fuel gas.
  • a fuel gas supply pipe 33 a portion only of which is illustrated in Figs.
  • a gas jet 34 which in turn delivers fuel gas in gaseous form into a mixing means, namely, a venturi mixer 35 where the fuel gas is mixed with air.
  • a mixing means namely, a venturi mixer 35 where the fuel gas is mixed with air.
  • Secondary air inlets namely, four air inlet ports 36 are located equi-spaced circumferentially around the venturi mixer 35 for accommodating air into the venturi mixer 35.
  • the fuel gas/air mixture is delivered from the venturi mixer 35 to a burner unit 38 located in the fuel gas inlet 26 to the combustion chamber 25.
  • thermo-magnetic sensor and regulator valve 45 is associated with and in contact with the heat exchanger 15 for monitoring the temperature of the heat exchanger 15.
  • the fuel gas supply from the reservoir 30 through the fuel gas supply pipe 33 to the gas jet 34 is passed through the thermo-magnetic sensor 45 for controlling the flow of fuel gas to the gas jet 34, for in turn controlling the temperature of the heat exchanger 15, and in turn the temperature of the heated air output stream from the main air outlet 12.
  • the thermo-magnetic sensor 45 is not described or illustrated in detail, however, such a thermo-magnetic sensor and regulator valve is disclosed in PCT Published Application Specification No. WO-A-95/09712.
  • thermo-magnetic sensor and regulator valve 45 also acts as an over temperature safety cut-out means. In other words, should the temperature of the heat exchanger 15 exceed a predetermined safe operating temperature the thermo-magnetic sensor and regulator valve 45 is arranged to isolate the gas jet 34 from the reservoir 30. It will of course be appreciated that the thermo-magnetic sensor and regulator valve 45 in certain cases may be provided to act only as an over temperature safety cut-out, and would have no temperature regulating function for regulating the temperature of the heat exchanger 15.
  • a thumb operated slider switch (not shown) is located in the handle 6 for operating a fuel gas supply valve (not shown) located in the fuel supply pipe 33 between the reservoir 30 and the gas jet 34.
  • the fuel gas supply valve is located intermediate the reservoir 30 and the thermo-magnetic sensor and regulator valve 45.
  • the thumb operated slider switch also operates the piezo electric element (not shown) for developing a spark across the spark gap 40.
  • Such a thumb switch will be well known to those skilled in the art, and typically, is of the type disclosed in Published PCT Application Specification No. WO-A-97/38265. Briefly, the thumb switch operates the fuel gas supply valve (not shown) and the piezo electric element sequentially so that fuel gas/air mixture delivered to the burner 38 is exiting from the burner 38 before the spark is developed across the spark gap 40 for ignition thereof.
  • WO-A-97/38265 also illustrates and describes the arrangement of a gas catalytic combustion element relative to a burner for providing flame ignition for raising the temperature of the gas catalytic combustion element to its ignition temperature, and subsequently extinguishing the flame as a result of starvation of the flame of fuel gas/air mixture as the gas catalytic combustion element 29 reaches its ignition temperature.
  • the batteries 20 are electrically connected to the electric motor 19 of the fan 18 through an on/off switch (not shown) which is also operable by the thumb operated slider switch (not shown) in the handle 6. Accordingly, as the thumb switch is being urged for opening the fuel supply valve the electric on/off switch (not shown) is closed for supplying electric power to the motor 19.
  • the motor 19 is operable at a plurality of selectable speeds for driving the fan 18 at different speeds.
  • a speed selector knob (not shown) provided on the handle 6 controls the speed of the motor 19, and in turn, that of the fan 18.
  • the venturi mixer 35 is located just downstream of the motor 19, and is effectively shielded by the motor 19, and is thus in the lee of the motor 19.
  • air which is mixed with fuel gas in the venturi mixer 35 is drawn into the venturi mixer 35 through the air inlet ports 36 almost solely by the venturi effect of the gas issuing from the gas jet 34 through the venturi mixer 35.
  • the fan 18 plays virtually no part in urging air into the venturi mixer 35 through the air inlet ports 36.
  • the fuel gas/air ratio of the fuel gas/air mixture is maintained substantially constant for all operating conditions of the device, and for all operating conditions and all operating speeds of the fan 18.
  • the fuel gas/air mixture is delivered from the venturi mixer 35 to the burner 38 through a tube 46 which sealably engages the venturi mixer 35 and the burner 38.
  • the burner 38 sealably engages the fuel gas inlet 26 to the combustion chamber 35, thereby preventing the ingress of air into the combustion chamber 25 directly from the hollow interior region 10. Accordingly, the only air which enters the combustion chamber 25 and comes in contact with the gas catalytic combustion element 29 is that which is drawn into the venturi mixer 35 through the air inlet ports 36 by the action of the fuel gas issuing from the gas jet 34.
  • the fuel gas/air ratio of the fuel gas/air mixture is maintained substantially constant for all operating conditions of the device 1 and for all operating conditions and speeds of the fan 18.
  • the heat exchanger 15 forms the combustion chamber 25 and the gas catalytic combustion element 29 is located within the combustion chamber, the heat exchanger 15 acts as a shield for shielding the gas catalytic combustion element 29 from air being urged by the fan 18 through the heat exchange passageway 17. This ensures that the air passing through the heat exchange passageway 17 is isolated from the gas catalytic combustion element 29, and has no affect on the fuel/gas ratio of the fuel/gas air mixture in the combustion chamber 25, or on the efficiency of flameless combustion of the fuel gas/air mixture by the gas catalytic combustion element 29.
  • the catalytic combustion element 29 operates at a substantially constant efficient conversion rate for converting the fuel gas/air mixture to heat.
  • the hair treatment attachment 2a of Figs. 6 and 7 is adapted for releasably securing to the downstream portion 8 of the main housing 3 or may be integrally formed with the main housing 3, for adapting the device 1 as a hair treatment device.
  • the attachment 2a is formed by an elongated barrel 51 of circular transverse cross-section which is closed by an end cap 52 at one end thereof.
  • a plurality of longitudinally and circumferentially spaced-apart comb like teeth 53 extend from the barrel 51 for facilitating combing the hair and winding the hair onto the barrel 51 as the attachment 2a and device 1 is rotated by hand.
  • An open end 55 of the barrel 51 communicates with the main air outlet 12 for receiving the heated air stream.
  • a plurality of secondary air outlets 54 which are spaced-apart longitudinally and circumferentially along and around the barrel 51 output the heated air radially from the barrel 51 for treating the hair wound onto or engaged by the barrel 51 for curling, shaping or otherwise treating the hair.
  • a releasable securing means (not shown) is provided on the downstream portion 8 of the main housing 3 for releasably securing the attachment 2a to the downstream portion 8 of the main housing 3 adjacent the main air outlet 12.
  • the attachment 2b illustrated in Fig. 8 is a hair curling attachment, and comprises a barrel 61 which is substantially similar to the barrel 51 of the attachment 2a.
  • the barrel 61 is closed at one end by an end cap 62, and is open at the other end 63 for receiving the heated air stream from the main air outlet 12.
  • the releasable securing means (not shown) on the main housing 3 secures the attachment 2b to the lower portion 8 of the main housing 3 adjacent the main outlet 12.
  • a plurality of secondary air outlets 64 similar to the air outlets 54 of the attachment 2a are spaced apart longitudinally and circumferentially along and around the barrel 61 for delivering air through hair wrapped around the barrel 61.
  • a clip 66 is pivotally connected at 67 to the barrel 61 for retaining hair wound around the barrel 61.
  • a handle 68 extending from the clip 66 facilitates manual pivoting of the clip 66.
  • the arrangement of such clips on hair curling barrels of hair treatment devices will be known to those skilled in the art.
  • the device 1 may also be used as a hair dryer, in which case, it would be used typically without the attachments 2a and 2b.
  • various different shaped nozzles may be provided for providing air streams of different transverse cross-section which would be suitable for attaching to the main outlet 12 for directing the heated air stream at the hair.
  • thermo-magnetic sensor and regulator valve 45 in general, is only required to act as an over temperature safety cut-out for isolating the gas jet 34 from the reservoir 30 in the event of an over temperature condition occurring.
  • An over temperature condition of the device could arise, for example, as a result of insufficient power in the batteries 20 for driving the motor 19 for powering the fan 18, in which case, the air throughput past the heat exchanger 15 would rapidly drop off, thereby allowing the heat exchanger 15 to overheat.
  • a hot air generating device according to another embodiment of the invention, which in this case is indicated generally by the reference numeral 70, and which is also suitable for use as a hair treatment device.
  • the device 70 is substantially similar to the device 1 , and similar components are identified by the same reference numerals.
  • a barrel 71 forms the hair treatment part of the device 70 and is integrally formed with the main housing 3.
  • the heat exchanger 15 is located in the barrel 71, and thus, the barrel 71 effectively forms the downstream portion 8 of the housing 3.
  • the barrel 71 is substantially similar to the barrel 51 of the hair treatment attachment 2a, and similar components are identified by the same reference numerals.
  • air passing through the heat exchange passageway 17 is heated and in turn outputted through the secondary air outlets 54.
  • the gas catalytic combustion element 29 terminates at 73 in the combustion chamber 25.
  • the electrodes 37 and 39 extend to a position just beyond the end 73 of the gas catalytic combustion element 29 for initially igniting the fuel gas/air mixture to bum in a flame between the end 73 of the gas catalytic combustion element 29 and the exhaust gas outlet 27 for initial flame combustion of the fuel gas/air mixture.
  • a perforated end cap 74 of gauze material extends across the exhaust gas outlet 27 for retaining the flame within the combustion chamber 25 during initial flame combustion of the fuel gas/air mixture.
  • the gas catalytic combustion element 29 is formed for causing the flame to bum in the combustion chamber between the end 73 of the gas catalytic combustion element 29 and the gauze end cap 74.
  • the gas catalytic combustion element 29 instead of being of cylindrical shape may be spiral wound. Accordingly, on initial ignition of the fuel gas/air mixture to bum with flame combustion, the flame is retained in the combustion chamber 25 between the end 73 of the gas catalytic combustion element 29 and the gauze end cap 74. The root of the flame heats the end 73 of the gas catalytic combustion element 29 to its ignition temperature, which commences to convert the fuel gas/air mixture to heat, and as the remainder of the gas catalytic combustion element 29 reaches the ignition temperature, thus converting the fuel gas/air mixture to heat, the flame is starved of fuel gas/air mixture and thus extinguished. Flameless combustion thus continues in the gas catalytic combustion element 29 converting the fuel gas/air mixture to heat.
  • thermo-magnetic sensor and regulator valve 45 instead of being mounted directly on the heat exchanger 15, in this embodiment of the invention extends from the housing of the gas jet 34 and extends upstream therefrom.
  • the sensor and regulator valve 45 is located in line with the venturi mixer 35 and the fuel gas supply pipe 33, for controlling the supply of fuel gas from the reservoir 30 to the venturi mixer 35 in response to the temperature of the heat exchanger 15.
  • the burner 38, the communicating tube 46 and the venturi mixer 35, as well as the housing of the thermo-magnetic sensor and regulator valve 45 are of brass material and are in heat conductive engagement with the heat exchanger 15. Accordingly, the temperature being monitored by the thermo-magnetic sensor and regulator valve 45 is substantially similar to the temperature of the heat exchanger 15, and any slight temperature drop can be taken account of in the construction and setting of the thermo-magnetic sensor and regulator valve 45.
  • the hair treatment device 70 is substantially similar to the hot air generating device 1 when adapted with the hair treatment attachment to A.
  • Fig. 10 there is illustrated an alternative construction of reservoir 30 for use with the hot air generating devices 1 and 70.
  • four equi-spaced recesses 80 are formed in the reservoir 80 for forming a part of the receiving area for receiving the four batteries 20.
  • the reservoir 30 is located in the hollow interior region with its end 81 adjacent the main air inlet 11.
  • hot air generating device may be used for paint stripping, and indeed, for many other industrial purposes.
  • a pressure regulator may be located in the air supply pipe 33 for regulating the pressure of the fuel gas from the fuel gas reservoir 30.
  • a suitable control knob would be provided on the handle for operating the pressure regulator.
  • a wire gauze or other device may be provided at the end of the exhaust gas outlet from the combustion chamber of the device of Figs. 1 to 8 for preventing reignition of unburnt gases due to any slippage in the catalytic element.
  • the heat exchange means may be transversely oriented.
  • two or more burner units could be provided for supplying fuel gas/air mixture to the catalytic combustion element, and in which case, the gas from each burner may be initially ignited to bum with the flame for raising the catalytic combustion element to its ignition temperature, and in some cases, the fuel gas/air mixture from only one or some of the burners may be ignited to bum with a flame for raising the temperature of the catalytic combustion element to its ignition temperature.
  • each combustion chamber may be provided, each comprising a catalytic combustion element, and a burner for delivering fuel gas/air mixture to the catalytic combustion element.
  • the heat exchange means would be appropriately arranged around each or all of the combustion chambers for heating the air driven by the fan or other such urging means.
  • each combustion chamber may be defined by a separate heat exchange means.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Gas Burners (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un générateur d'air chaud comprenant une enveloppe principale (3) qui définit une zone interne creuse (10). Un ventilateur à moteur (18) aspire de l'air par une entrée d'air principale (11) à une extrémité de l'enveloppe (3), cet air pénétrant dans la zone interne creuse (10). Un flux d'air chauffé ressort de l'autre extrémité de l'enveloppe (3) par une sortie d'air principale (12). Un échangeur thermique (15) situé dans une partie aval (8) de l'enveloppe (3) chauffe l'air qui est insufflé dans la zone interne creuse (10) par le biais du ventilateur (18). Une chambre de combustion (25) située dans l'échangeur thermique (15) abrite un élément de combustion catalytique gazeuse (29) alimenté par un mélange gaz/air via un brûleur (38), convertissant ce mélange en chaleur de manière à chauffer l'échangeur thermique (15), Une partie amont (5) de l'enveloppe (3) formant une poignée (6) abrite un réservoir (30) qui fournit un gaz de combustion à la chambre de combustion (25). Des batteries (20) situées dans la poignée (6) alimentent un moteur (19) qui entraîne le ventilateur (18). L'échangeur thermique (15) protège entièrement l'élément de combustion catalytique gazeuse (29) contre les effets du flux d'air entraîné par le ventilateur (18) à travers la zone interne creuse (10), ce qui permet d'éviter le refroidissement et l'extinction par inadvertance de l'élément de combustion catalytique gazeuse (29) en cours d'utilisation.
PCT/IE1999/000075 1998-07-23 1999-07-22 Generateur d'air chaud WO2000005540A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP99933097A EP1099083A1 (fr) 1998-07-23 1999-07-22 Generateur d'air chaud
AU49265/99A AU4926599A (en) 1998-07-23 1999-07-22 A hot air generating device

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IE980616 1998-07-23
IES980616 1998-07-23

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2000005540A1 true WO2000005540A1 (fr) 2000-02-03

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ID=11041860

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/IE1999/000075 WO2000005540A1 (fr) 1998-07-23 1999-07-22 Generateur d'air chaud

Country Status (4)

Country Link
EP (1) EP1099083A1 (fr)
AU (1) AU4926599A (fr)
IE (1) IES990621A2 (fr)
WO (1) WO2000005540A1 (fr)

Cited By (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE20211792U1 (de) 2002-07-26 2002-10-10 Exact Flüssiggasgerätebau GmbH, 14542 Werder Heißluftgerät
EP1366687A1 (fr) * 2001-02-09 2003-12-03 RE-TEC Inc. Seche-cheveux a carburant gazeux
EP1916922A1 (fr) * 2005-08-26 2008-05-07 Joseph Mourad Dispositif de coiffure
WO2011055116A3 (fr) * 2009-11-06 2011-06-30 Jemella Limited Appareil de coiffure
WO2011130373A3 (fr) * 2010-04-14 2013-05-02 Enerco Group, Inc. Aérotherme comprenant une source embarquée d'énergie électrique
US8494350B2 (en) 2006-12-12 2013-07-23 Enerco Group, Inc. Forced air heater including on-board source of electric energy
US8893706B2 (en) 2006-12-12 2014-11-25 Enerco Group, Inc. Forced air heater including on-board source of electric energy
CN105605771A (zh) * 2016-03-14 2016-05-25 马玉岭 速热空气热力交换装置
RU2651916C1 (ru) * 2017-05-04 2018-04-24 Андрей Владиславович Курочкин Генератор горячего воздуха
EP3430314A4 (fr) * 2016-03-15 2019-11-13 Looft Industries AB Dispositif à air chaud portable et tenu à la main
US10947983B2 (en) 2015-06-12 2021-03-16 Tti (Macao Commercial Offshore) Limited Axial fan blower
WO2021112330A1 (fr) * 2019-12-06 2021-06-10 숭실대학교산학협력단 Sèche-cheveux sans fil hautement efficace
WO2023148706A1 (fr) * 2022-02-03 2023-08-10 Oglesby & Butler Research & Development Limited Dispositif de retardement de la croissance d'une corne et méthode pour retarder la croissance d'une corne d'un animal

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0115707A1 (fr) * 1983-01-05 1984-08-15 Ross James Heaters Limited Procédé et dispositif de chauffage d'habitacle par combustion catalytique
US4726767A (en) 1985-04-27 1988-02-23 Nakajima Dokosho Company Limited Hot airstream generating device
WO1995009712A1 (fr) 1993-10-01 1995-04-13 Oglesby & Butler Research & Development Limited DISPOSITIF CHAUFFANT à GAZ
WO1997038265A2 (fr) 1996-04-04 1997-10-16 Oglesby & Butler Research & Development Limited Bruleur a gaz et appareil chauffant alimente en gaz

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0115707A1 (fr) * 1983-01-05 1984-08-15 Ross James Heaters Limited Procédé et dispositif de chauffage d'habitacle par combustion catalytique
US4726767A (en) 1985-04-27 1988-02-23 Nakajima Dokosho Company Limited Hot airstream generating device
WO1995009712A1 (fr) 1993-10-01 1995-04-13 Oglesby & Butler Research & Development Limited DISPOSITIF CHAUFFANT à GAZ
WO1997038265A2 (fr) 1996-04-04 1997-10-16 Oglesby & Butler Research & Development Limited Bruleur a gaz et appareil chauffant alimente en gaz

Cited By (21)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1366687A1 (fr) * 2001-02-09 2003-12-03 RE-TEC Inc. Seche-cheveux a carburant gazeux
EP1366687A4 (fr) * 2001-02-09 2008-09-03 Re Tec Inc Seche-cheveux a carburant gazeux
DE20211792U1 (de) 2002-07-26 2002-10-10 Exact Flüssiggasgerätebau GmbH, 14542 Werder Heißluftgerät
NO339615B1 (no) * 2005-08-26 2017-01-16 Joseph Mourad Anordning for hårstyling
EP1916922A1 (fr) * 2005-08-26 2008-05-07 Joseph Mourad Dispositif de coiffure
EP1916922A4 (fr) * 2005-08-26 2014-04-30 Joseph Mourad Dispositif de coiffure
US10495344B2 (en) 2006-12-12 2019-12-03 Enerco Group, Inc. Forced air heater including multiple on-board sources of electric energy
US8494350B2 (en) 2006-12-12 2013-07-23 Enerco Group, Inc. Forced air heater including on-board source of electric energy
US9927144B2 (en) 2006-12-12 2018-03-27 Enerco Group, Inc. Forced air heater including multiple on-board sources of electric energy
US8893706B2 (en) 2006-12-12 2014-11-25 Enerco Group, Inc. Forced air heater including on-board source of electric energy
WO2011055116A3 (fr) * 2009-11-06 2011-06-30 Jemella Limited Appareil de coiffure
CN103250008B (zh) * 2010-04-14 2015-12-16 埃纳柯集团公司 包括车载电能源的强制通风加热器
CN103250008A (zh) * 2010-04-14 2013-08-14 埃纳柯集团公司 包括车载电能源的强制通风加热器
WO2011130373A3 (fr) * 2010-04-14 2013-05-02 Enerco Group, Inc. Aérotherme comprenant une source embarquée d'énergie électrique
US10947983B2 (en) 2015-06-12 2021-03-16 Tti (Macao Commercial Offshore) Limited Axial fan blower
CN105605771A (zh) * 2016-03-14 2016-05-25 马玉岭 速热空气热力交换装置
EP3430314A4 (fr) * 2016-03-15 2019-11-13 Looft Industries AB Dispositif à air chaud portable et tenu à la main
RU2651916C1 (ru) * 2017-05-04 2018-04-24 Андрей Владиславович Курочкин Генератор горячего воздуха
WO2021112330A1 (fr) * 2019-12-06 2021-06-10 숭실대학교산학협력단 Sèche-cheveux sans fil hautement efficace
EP3850982A4 (fr) * 2019-12-06 2022-02-23 Foundation Of Soongsil University-Industry Cooperation Sèche-cheveux sans fil hautement efficace
WO2023148706A1 (fr) * 2022-02-03 2023-08-10 Oglesby & Butler Research & Development Limited Dispositif de retardement de la croissance d'une corne et méthode pour retarder la croissance d'une corne d'un animal

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1099083A1 (fr) 2001-05-16
IES990621A2 (en) 2001-01-24
AU4926599A (en) 2000-02-14

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