Marvin G Graham

US Patent:

42856620, Aug 25, 1981

Filed:

Aug 17, 1978

Appl. No.:

5/934533

Inventors:

Jay R. Katchka - Cypress CA
Marvin M. Graham - Westminster CA

Assignee:

Robertshaw Controls Company - Richmond VA

International Classification:

F23Q 908

US Classification:

431 53

Abstract:

There is disclosed a control system for a gas fired main and pilot burner assembly of an appliance. The assembly comprises first and second serially connected gas control valves for installation in the gas line to the main burner. A bypass conduit is provided downstream of the first control valve communicating with the pilot burner. A flame sensor such as a thermocouple is mounted adjacent the pilot burner for direct contact with the flame therefrom are included in the system. The valve members of each of the first and second control valves are resiliently biased closed and an independent latching mechanism is provided with each valve structure to hold its respective valve member open. The latching mechanism of each valve is operatively interconnected to the flame sensor so that the valve members are latched in the valve open positions when a flame is present at the pilot burner.

US Patent:

44228449, Dec 27, 1983

Filed:

Jan 29, 1981

Appl. No.:

6/229517

Inventors:

Marvin M. Graham - Westminster CA
Jay R. Katchka - Cypress CA

Assignee:

Robertshaw Controls Company - Richmond VA

International Classification:

F23N 500
H01H 906

US Classification:

431 72

Abstract:

A unitary assembly includes a thermostatically controlled valve and an electric switch coupled for operation therewith. Both the valve and the electric switch are operated under the control of a thermostatic actuator which effectuates operation through a snap acting member movable between alternate stable positions. Neither the valve nor the electrical switch can dwell at the threshold of actuation, but rather are positively actuated to either an open or closed position when the snap acting member moves to one of its stable positions, and to an opposite condition when the snap acting member moves to its alternate stable position. The movement of the thermostatic actuator can be adjustably multiplied by a lever arrangement in the valve housing. The movement of the snap acting member can also be multiplied by an internal arrangement employing a lever ring with radially inwardly directed cantilevered lever arms. The valve of the invention may be employed for direct actuation of ignition of a gas burner, for actuation to open a flue damper, and for actuating a burner and a blower in a forced air combustion chamber.