Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a switching mechanism system (100) of a heating device (102), the system includes one or more proximity sensors (104) accommodated in the heating device to monitor the vicinity around the heating device and detect the presence of nearby objects when the heating device comes within proximity of the object. A timer (108) is activated upon detecting the presence of the object, where upon continuous detection of the presence of the object for more than the predefined duration, the power supply of the heating device is automatically deactivated, and wherein, when the heating device is removed from the proximity of the object before the predefined duration elapses, the uninterrupted operation of the heating device is continued seamlessly and an indicator (110), upon detecting the proximity of the object, generates an alarm to alert a user.
Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates, in general, to heating technology and safety systems, and more specifically, relates to an intelligent switching mechanism of heating devices.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Heating devices have become an indispensable part of our daily lives, both in domestic and commercial settings. However, existing heating devices lack a crucial safety feature: a cut-off mechanism when they come into proximity to walls or other objects. This limitation often leads to various difficulties, including potential fire hazards, risks of body melting due to excessive heat, and the possibility of consumer injuries when accidentally getting too close to the heating device.
[0003] Foremost among these challenges is the ever-present potential for fire hazards that arise when heating devices inadvertently come into direct contact with flammable materials or confined spaces, increasing the risk of devastating accidents. Moreover, the absence of a cut-off mechanism contributes to an additional threat, wherein the excessive heat emitted by the heating device poses a serious threat of body melting. The absence of a protective system can lead to dangerous overheating, resulting in not only material damage but also severe injuries to unsuspecting users. Another alarming consequence is the possibility of consumers inadvertently coming into proximity to the heating device. This lack of safety provisions significantly heightens the risk of accidental burns, injuries, and other mishaps, which can have lasting impacts on individuals' well-being and society.
[0004] Therefore, it is desired to overcome the drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with existing solutions, and develop an intelligent system that detects the presence of objects or individuals near the heated surface, triggering an alarm to alert the user and automatically switching off the product to prevent further heat flow, thereby minimizing the risk of fire, injuries, and damage.
OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a system having an automatic switching-off mechanism that ensures that the heater stops operating when it approaches walls or other objects, significantly reducing the risk of fire hazards, overheating, and potential accidents.
[0006] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system with an automatic alert signal, where the users are promptly notified when the heater is near walls or objects, allowing them to take immediate action and prevent accidents before they occur.
[0007] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a user-friendly device that is seamlessly integrated, requiring no manual intervention from users. This user-friendly design enhances the overall experience and convenience of using the heater.
[0008] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a device that makes it applicable to a wide range of heating appliances used in both residential and commercial settings.
[0009] Another object of the present disclosure is to promote energy efficiency by automatically switching off when not required, minimizing unnecessary energy consumption and contributing to environmental sustainability.
[0010] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system with an automatic shut-off feature that helps prolong the lifespan of the heater by preventing potential damage caused by continuous operation near obstacles.
[0011] Another object of the present disclosure reduces maintenance costs by the prevention of accidents and overheating helps reduce maintenance and repair costs associated with damages to the heater.
[0012] Yet another object of the present disclosure provides advanced safety measures to instill confidence in consumers, enhancing their trust in the product and leading to greater overall satisfaction with its performance.
SUMMARY
[0013] The present disclosure relates in general, to heating technology and safety systems, and more specifically, relates to an intelligent switching mechanism of heating devices. The main objective of the present disclosure is to overcome the drawbacks, limitations, and shortcomings of the existing apparatus and solution, by providing an automatic switching-off mechanism for heaters that activates when the heater comes into proximity to a wall or any other object. This safety feature prevents potential hazards and accidents by halting the heater's operation when it detects an obstacle nearby. Additionally, the present disclosure incorporates an automatic alert unit, which is triggered when the heater gets very close to a wall or any other object. This audible alert serves as a timely warning to the user, helping them avoid potential accidents and ensuring a safer heating experience.
[0014] The present disclosure includes one or more proximity sensors accommodated in the heating device to monitor the vicinity around the heating device and detect the presence of nearby objects when the heating device comes within proximity of the object. The heating device is selected from a heater, blower and any combination thereof. The objects are selected from nearby walls, living objects, non-living objects and any combination thereof. The heating device is positioned on a stable and supportive base.
[0015] Further, a timer is activated upon detecting the presence of the object, initiating a countdown for a predefined duration, providing a crucial timeframe for the heating device to respond to the detected proximity. The predefined duration can be, for example, 5 to 50 seconds. The power supply of the heating device is automatically deactivated upon continuous detection of the presence of the object for more than the predefined duration. An automated switch-off unit is activated after the predefined duration, swiftly and intelligently cutting off the power supply of the heating device, preventing potential overheating, fire hazards, and accidents. When the heating device is removed from the proximity of the object before the predefined duration elapses, the uninterrupted operation of the heating device is continued seamlessly. This user-friendly integration eliminates the need for manual intervention, offering convenience in heater operation
[0016] In addition, an indicator generates an alarm to alert a user upon detecting the proximity of the object. The indicator employs an audible beep signal upon detecting the proximity of the object and serves as a proactive warning to draw the attention of the user to potential hazards, enabling prompt corrective actions for a safer heating experience. Thus, the indicator ensures users are promptly notified when the heater is close to walls or objects, effectively preventing potential accidents.
[0017] Moreover, the heating device incorporates a manual reset button that provides the user with the flexibility to resume regular heating operations after ensuring a safe distance from the nearby objects, thereby enhancing user convenience. The heating device operates in normal mode in the absence of the object's proximity.
[0018] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] The following drawings form part of the present specification and are included to further illustrate aspects of the present disclosure. The disclosure may be better understood by reference to the drawings in combination with the detailed description of the specific embodiments
[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary intelligent switching mechanism system of the heating device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 2 is a high-level flow chart illustrating a method of operating the intelligent switching mechanism, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary flow chart of a method of operating the intelligent switching mechanism system of the heating device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0023] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
[0024] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0025] The present disclosure relates, in general, to heating technology and safety systems, and more specifically, relates to an intelligent switching mechanism of heating devices. The proposed switching mechanism disclosed in the present disclosure overcomes the drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with the conventional mechanism by providing proximity sensors accommodated in the heating device to monitor the vicinity around the heating device and detect the presence of nearby objects when the heating device comes within proximity of the object. The heating device is selected from a heater, blower and any combination thereof. The objects are selected from nearby walls, living objects, non-living objects and any combination thereof. The heating device is positioned on a stable and supportive base.
[0026] Further, a timer is activated upon detecting the presence of the object, initiating a countdown for a predefined duration, and providing a crucial timeframe for the heating device to respond to the detected proximity. The predefined duration can be, for example, 5 to 50 seconds. The power supply of the heating device is automatically deactivated upon continuous detection of the presence of the object for more than the predefined duration. An automated switch-off unit is activated after the predefined duration, swiftly and intelligently cutting off the power supply of the heating device, preventing potential overheating, fire hazards, and accidents. When the heating device is removed from the proximity of the object before the predefined duration elapses, the uninterrupted operation of the heating device is continued seamlessly.
[0027] In addition, an indicator generates an alarm to alert a user upon detecting the proximity of the object. The indicator employs an audible beep signal upon detecting the proximity of the object and serves as a proactive warning to draw the attention of the user to potential hazards, enabling prompt corrective actions for a safer heating experience.
[0028] Moreover, the heating device incorporates a manual reset button that provides the user with the flexibility to resume regular heating operations after ensuring a safe distance from the nearby objects, thereby enhancing user convenience. The heating device operates in normal mode in the absence of the object proximity. The present disclosure can be described in enabling detail in the following examples, which may represent more than one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0029] The advantages achieved by the device of the present disclosure can be clear from the embodiments provided herein. The present disclosure provides an automatic switching-off mechanism that enhances safety by halting the heater's operation when it approaches walls or objects, reducing fire hazards and accidents. Additionally, an automatic alert ensures users are promptly notified when the heater is close to walls or objects, effectively preventing potential accidents. The user-friendly integration eliminates the need for manual intervention, offering convenience in heater operation. This innovative technology applies to a wide range of heating appliances for both residential and commercial use, while its automatic shut-off feature promotes energy efficiency by reducing unnecessary energy consumption. By preventing damage from continuous operation near obstacles, the heater's lifespan is prolonged. This comprehensive safety approach also results in reduced maintenance costs, as it prevents accidents and overheating. Overall, the advanced safety measures instill confidence in consumers, leading to greater satisfaction with the product's performance. The description of terms and features related to the present disclosure shall be clear from the embodiments that are illustrated and described; however, the invention is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents of the embodiments are possible within the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, the invention can include other embodiments that are within the scope of the claims but are not described in detail with respect to the following description.
[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary intelligent switching mechanism system of heating device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0031] Referring to FIG. 1, the switching mechanism system 100 (also referred to as switching mechanism 100, herein) for heating device is disclosed. The switching mechanism 100 of the heating device 102 can include one or more proximity sensors (104-1, to 104-3 (which are collectively referred to as proximity sensor 104, herein)) , base106, timer 108, and indicator 110. The heating device 102 as presented in the example can be heaters, blowers and the like.
[0032] The proximity sensors 104 play a critical role in the switching mechanism 100 of the heating device 102. These advanced sensors are strategically integrated into the design to detect the presence of nearby objects or obstacles, such as walls, furniture and any combination thereof. When the heating device 102 comes into close proximity with any such objects, the proximity sensors 104 promptly sense the change in distance, initiating the safety protocol.
[0033] The base 106 is a foundational component of the switching mechanism 100, providing stability and support to the heating device 102. It is designed to hold the components securely in place within the heating device. The robust base 106 ensures proper alignment and functioning of the safety features, enhancing the overall reliability of the switching mechanism.
[0034] The timer 108 is an integral part of the switching mechanism, enhancing the safety features of the heating device 102. Once the proximity sensors 104 detect the presence of an object, the timer 108 is activated and starts counting down from a predefined duration, typically 5 to 50 seconds. The timer 108 provides a crucial window during which the heating device can respond to the detected proximity.
[0035] After the 5 to 50 seconds duration threshold is reached, the automatic switch-off unit is activated. The safety mechanism swiftly and intelligently cuts off the heater's power supply, ceasing its operation to prevent any further risks or damages. This instantaneous action minimizes the potential of overheating, fire hazards, and accidents that may arise from prolonged proximity to objects.
[0036] In case the heater is switched off due to the automatic safety protocol, the system provides a straightforward solution. The heater can be restarted by simply pressing the manual restart button. This user-friendly feature grants users the flexibility to resume normal heating operations after ensuring a safe distance from nearby objects.
[0037] To ensure optimal user experience, the switching mechanism 100 includes a proximity validation feature. If the heater is removed from the proximity of walls or other objects before the 5 to 50 seconds duration elapses, the proximity sensor 104 confirms the change in distance. Subsequently, the heater 102 continues its normal operation without any interruptions or automatic shut-offs, ensuring uninterrupted comfort for the users.
[0038] In an embodiment, indicator 110 serves as a visual or auditory cue in the switching mechanism 100 of the heating device 102. When proximity sensor 104 detects an object and initiates the safety protocol, indicator 110 promptly conveys the detection to the user. This can be in the form of an illuminated light emitting diode (LED) light, an audible beep, or a combination of visual and auditory signals. The indicator serves as an immediate alert to the user, providing crucial information about the presence of potential hazards and the activation of safety measures.
[0039] The indicator 110 as presented in the example can be an audible beep. Upon detecting the proximity of the object, the heater 102 initiates an audible beep indication as a proactive warning to the user. The beep serves as an immediate alert, drawing the user's attention to the potential hazard. This timely warning empowers users to take corrective actions promptly, ensuring a safer heating experience.
[0040] An example of an implementation of the embodiment involves the following scenario, when the heater is switched ON and if the heater comes in the proximity of a wall or any other object, it starts to indicate the situation through a beep signal. If this proximity sensing persists for more than 5 to 50 seconds, the heater may be automatically switched off, and to resume operation, the user would need to press the button again for a restart. However, if the heater is removed from the vicinity of the wall or object before the 5 to 50 seconds threshold, it can continue its regular operation.
[0041] Thus, the present invention overcomes the drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with existing solutions, and provides an automatic switching-off mechanism that enhances safety by halting the heater's operation near walls or objects, preventing fire hazards and accidents. The automatic alert unit promptly notifies users of potential hazards, ensuring accident prevention. The user-friendly integration offers convenience in heater operation without manual intervention. The technology is versatile, and suitable for various heating appliances in residential and commercial settings. Its automatic shut-off feature promotes energy efficiency, reducing unnecessary energy consumption, and extending the heater's lifespan by preventing damage from continuous operation near obstacles. Compliance with safety standards ensures industry best practices, leading to reduced maintenance costs and instilling consumer confidence in the product's performance.
[0042] FIG. 2 is a high-level flow chart illustrating a method of operating the intelligent switching mechanism, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0043] Referring to FIG. 2, method 200 includes block 202, when the heater is powered on, the safety mechanism becomes active to ensure user protection during its operation.
[0044] At block 204, as the heater operates, it continuously monitors its surroundings using an advanced proximity sensor 104. When the heater comes within close proximity to a wall or any other object, the proximity sensor 104 immediately detects the presence of the obstacle.
[0045] At block 206, upon detecting the proximity of the object, the heater initiates an audible beep indication as a warning to the user. Simultaneously, a timer of predefined time e.g., 5 to 50 seconds starts counting down from the moment the proximity is detected.
[0046] At block 208, if the heater continues to sense the presence of the object for the entire 5 to 50 seconds duration, the switching mechanism takes the following actions. At block 210, the heater's power supply is automatically switched off, ceasing its operation to prevent potential hazards. To resume heating, the user must manually restart the heater by switching it on again.
[0047] At block 212, if the heater is moved away from the proximity of the wall or object before the 5 to 50 seconds duration elapses, the switching mechanism responds as follows. At block 214, the timer is reset to zero, indicating that the heater is no longer in proximity to the object. The heater operation continues seamlessly, allowing uninterrupted heating.
[0048] At block 216, when the heater operates without encountering any obstacles in its proximity, it functions as per its normal operation. At block 218, the switching mechanism remains inactive, and the heater provides the desired heating without any intervention. By implementing this method, the safety mechanism effectively guards against potential hazards and accidents caused by proximity to walls or objects. The intelligent integration of the proximity sensor, timer, and beep indication enhances user safety, ensuring a safe heating experience. This user-friendly system strikes a perfect balance between protection and convenience, making the heater a reliable and secure heating solution for both residential and commercial spaces.
[0049] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary flow chart of a method of operating the intelligent switching mechanism system of the heating device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0050] The method 300 for operating the switching mechanism system 100 for the heating device includes block 302, the proximity sensors monitoring the vicinity around the heating device and detecting the presence of nearby objects when the heating device comes within proximity of the object, the one or more proximity sensors accommodated in the heating device.
[0051] At block 304, the timer is activated upon detecting the presence of the object and initiating a countdown for a predefined duration, providing a crucial timeframe for the heating device to respond to the detected proximity. The power supply of the heating device is automatically deactivated upon continuous detection of the presence of the object for more than the predefined duration. When the heating device is removed from the proximity of the object before the predefined duration elapses, the uninterrupted operation of the heating device is continued seamlessly.
[0052] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the switching mechanism 100 disclosure may be provided using some or all of the mentioned features and components without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described herein, it will be clear that the disclosure is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure, as described in the claims.
ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0053] The present invention provides a system having an automatic switching-off mechanism that ensures that the heater stops operating when it approaches walls or other objects, significantly reducing the risk of fire hazards, overheating, and potential accidents.
[0054] The present invention provides a system with an automatic alert unit, where the users are promptly notified when the heater is in close proximity to walls or objects, allowing them to take immediate action and prevent accidents before they occur.
[0055] The present invention provides a user-friendly device that is seamlessly integrated, requiring no manual intervention from users. This user-friendly design enhances the overall experience and convenience of using the heater.
[0056] The present invention provides a device making it applicable to a wide range of heating appliances used in both residential and commercial settings.
[0057] The present invention promotes energy efficiency by automatically switching off when not required, minimizing unnecessary energy consumption and contributing to environmental sustainability.
[0058] The present invention provides an automatic shut-off feature that helps prolong the lifespan of the heater by preventing potential damage caused by continuous operation near obstacles.
[0059] The present invention reduces maintenance costs by the prevention of accidents and overheating helps reduce maintenance and repair costs associated with damages to the heater.
[0060] The present invention provides advanced safety measures to instill confidence in consumers, enhancing their trust in the product and leading to greater overall satisfaction with its performance.
, Claims:1. A switching mechanism system (100) of a heating device (102), the system comprising:
one or more proximity sensors (104-1 to 104-3) accommodated in the heating device to monitor the vicinity around the heating device and detect the presence of nearby objects when the heating device comes within proximity of the object; and
a timer (108) is activated upon detecting the presence of the object, initiating a countdown for a predefined duration, providing a crucial timeframe for the heating device to respond to the detected proximity,
wherein upon continuous detection of the presence of the object for more than the predefined duration, the power supply of the heating device is automatically deactivated, and wherein, when the heating device is removed from the proximity of the object before the predefined duration elapses, the uninterrupted operation of the heating device is continued seamlessly.
2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the heating device (102) comprises an indicator (110) that, upon detecting the proximity of the object, generates an alarm to alert a user.
3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system comprises an automated switch-off unit that is activated after the predefined duration, swiftly and intelligently cutting off the power supply of the heating device, preventing potential overheating, fire hazards, and accidents.
4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the heating device (102) incorporates a manual restart button that provides the user with the flexibility to resume regular heating operations after ensuring a safe distance from the nearby objects, thereby enhancing user convenience.
5. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the heating device operates in normal mode in the absence of the object proximity.
6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the predefined duration falls within the range of 5 to 50 seconds.
7. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the indicator (110) employs an audible beep signal upon detecting the proximity of the object and serves as a proactive warning to draw the attention of the user to potential hazards, enabling prompt corrective actions for a safer heating experience.
8. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the heating device (102) selected from a heater, blower and any combination thereof.
9. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the objects are selected from nearby walls, living objects, non-living objects and any combination thereof.
10. A method (300) for operating a switching mechanism system of a heating device, the method comprising:
monitoring (302), by one or more proximity sensors, the vicinity around the heating device and detecting the presence of nearby objects when the heating device comes within proximity of the object, the one or more proximity sensors accommodated in the heating device; and
activating (304) a timer upon detecting the presence of the object, initiating a countdown for a predefined duration, providing a crucial timeframe for the heating device to respond to the detected proximity, wherein upon continuous detection of the presence of the object for more than the predefined duration, the power supply of the heating device is automatically deactivated, and wherein, when the heating device is removed from the proximity of the object before the predefined duration elapses, the uninterrupted operation of the heating device is continued seamlessly.
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202311063994-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [23-09-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-09-23 |
| 2 | 202311063994-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [23-09-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-09-23 |
| 3 | 202311063994-FORM 18 [23-09-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-09-23 |
| 4 | 202311063994-FORM 1 [23-09-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-09-23 |
| 5 | 202311063994-DRAWINGS [23-09-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-09-23 |
| 6 | 202311063994-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [23-09-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-09-23 |
| 7 | 202311063994-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [23-09-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-09-23 |
| 8 | 202311063994-Proof of Right [25-11-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-11-25 |
| 9 | 202311063994-FORM-26 [25-11-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-11-25 |