US2558267A - Gas burner system with automatic - Google Patents

Description

w. A. RAY 2,558,267

June 26, 1951 GAS BURNER SYSTEM wrm AUTOMATIC PILOT'BURNER CONTROL s Sheets-Sheet 1 Filed May 26, 1948 I INVEN TOR.

I QTTOENE? W. A. RAY

June 26, 1951 GAS BURNER SYSTEM WITH AUTOMATIC PILOT BURNER CONTROL Filed May 26, 1948 5 SheetsSheet 2 em; INVENTOR.

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'5 5m I I $111,111,

June 26, 1951 w. A. RAY GAS BURNER SYSTEM WITH AUTOMATIC PILOT BURNER CONTROL Filed May 26, 1948 v JNVEN TOR.

Z amu June 26, 1951 w. A. RAY 2,558,267

GAS BURNER SYSTEM WITH AUTOMATIC PILOT' BURNER CONTROL Filed May 26, 1948 5 Sheets-Sheet 5 IGI fine |4| "o 5 2 '42 ,1 j V "28 o \25 via-ll. as D I45 151 a nos 155 ,1- use &4 726 aim/4M 4. 2.4V,

I254 40 INVENTOR. I 5 I58 '59 i l55\ y I09 i n RTTOENEV Patented June 26, 1951 GAS BURNER SYSTEM WITH AUTOMATIC PILOT BURNER CONTROL William A. Ray, North Hollywood, Calif assignor to General fornia Controls 00.,

a corporation of Cali- Application May 26, 1948, Serial No. 29,233 22 Claims. (01. l58117.1)

This invention relates to gas burner systems, and particularly of the type utilizing a pilot burner and safety devices ensuring against operation of the burner in the event the pilot flame is I extinguished.

This application is a continuation in part of application Serial No. 566,662, filed December 5, 1944, for Burner Control System," now Patent No. 2,456,147, patented December 14, 1948. Systems of this character often employ a thermocouple or thermopile that are operative to generate electrical power in response to the heat of the pilot flame. This relatively minute power is then utilized, as by the aid of relays, or the like, to permit passage of gas to the burner. When the pilot flame is extinguished, the supply of gas to the system is interrupted; and the pilot flame must again be ignited before any gas can flow.

It is one of the objects of this invention to improve, in general, systems of this character.

Burners are commonly used for space heating, such as in homes or auditoriums. The use of the heating equipment is seasonal, and the sys tem is inactive for a considerable period at a time. During these inactive periods the pilot burner flame is extinguished, and no gas is consumed.

It is another object of this invention to facilitate the initiation of the operation after a shutdown, as by a single act, which causes an igniter to be effective until the pilot flame is established.

It is essential that the main burner be prevented from operating until the pilot flame is in existence for a short time. Accordingly, it is still another object of this invention to provide a simple and effective system that ensures against opening of the valve for the main burner until after the period of ignition has been completed.

Upon establishment of operating conditions, the igniter is rendered inactive, the pilot flame established and, when more heat is required ,(for example, as determined by a thermostat switch), the main burner valve is opened. Thus, the thermostat may cause the main burner to burn or to be burned oil", as required.

Now, in the event of pilot flame failure, the system being shut down, the re-establishment of operation may be attempted immediately there after. However, it is very important to ensure that there be a time delay before the igniter is operated, for otherwise serious explosions may occur. It is still another object of this invention to insure that the igniter cannot be energized until a short period has elapsed after the main burner valve is closed.

This invention possesses many other advantages, and has other objects which may be made more clearly apparent from a consideration of several forms in which it may be embodied. Such forms are shown in the drawings accompanying and forming part of the present specification. These forms will now be described in detail, illustrating the general principles of the invention; but it is to be understood that such detailed description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, since the scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims.

Referring to the drawings:

Figure 1 is a diagrammatic representation of a system incorporating the invention;

Fig. 2 is a sectional view of an apparatus employed in the system shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 3 is a top plan view of the apparatus;

Fig. 4 is a view taken along a plane corresponding to line 4-4 of Fig. 3;

Fig. 5 is a fragmentary, sectional view of a portion of the apparatus illustrated in Fig. 2, and showing an alternate position of some of the parts;

Fig. 6 is a view, similar to Fig. 2, on a reduced scale, illustrating the running or operating condition of the system;

Fig. 7 is a diagram of a modified form of the system illustrated in Figs. 1 to 6 inclusive;

Fig. 8 is a sectional view of the apparatus incorporated in the system of Fig. 7;

Fig. 9 is an enlarged sectional view, taken along a plane corresponding to line 99 of Fig. 8.

Fig. 10 is a side view, partly broken away, of the apparatus illustrated in Figs. 8 and 9;

Fig. 11 is a fragmentary enlarged sectional view similar to Fig. 9, but illustrating an alternate position of the apparatus; and

Fig. 12 is a view similar to Fig. 8, showing the position of the apparatus when the system is in operation.

In the form shown in Figs. 1 to 6, a main burner I is shown adapted to be placed in operation by the flame 2 of the pilot burner 3. An electric spark igniter 4 is arranged to light the pilot burner to start the system in operation after a prolonged period of inactivity, as, for example, during the warmer months of the year, or after accidental failure of the pilot flame 2.

A source of gaseous fuel supply is connected to the conduit 5. One branch 6 of this conduit passes through an electromagnetically operated valve I to the main burner l. The branch conduit 8 leads to a burner control apparatus 3, shown in detail in Figs. 2 to 5 inclusive. An outlet conduit i leads to the pilot burner 3.

The control apparatus 9 includes a main body H which may be in the form of a casting, and which has a number of gaseous fuel passageways.

During the seasonal inactive period of the system, fuel'to the pilot burner 3 is entirely shut off. This inactive position of the apparatus is illustrated in Fig. 2. Thus, conduit 8 leads into a passageway l2 in the body H. This passageway connects to a short upright extension 13. Another passageway ll, parallel with and above passageway I2, is shown extending to the right to pass gaseous fuel to the conduit It.

In the inactive position, however, the passage of fuel through conduits l2, l3, and I4 is prevented by a valve closure l5. This valve closure is shown as resting on an annular valve seat l6 surrounding the port 11, which leads to the passage M. The passage 13 leads to the space 18 surrounding the seat l5. This space is defined by a thin, metallic sealing diaphragm is which overlies the open upper end of the space l8. It is held in sealing position by aid of the flange 2%! of a housing 2!. Disposed over this flange is the clamping ring 22 through which one or more screws 23 extend into the top of the body ll (see Fig. 3).

The closure member 15 is in the form of a disc made of magnetic material which is urged to seated position by the aid of a light compression spring 24. This compression spring is disposed in a recess 25 in the closure l5. Disc 45 may be provided with a number of through apertures for ready passage of fuel tothe top of the disc 5 for providing a further force to hold the disc seated.

Electromagnetic means are used to lift the armature or disc to the open position indicated in Fig. 6. For this purpose a coil 26 is utilized, extending over a core 21. The lower end of this core 21 has an enlarged pole piece 23, which has a circular polar area immediately above the dia phragm i9 and disposed centrally of the axis of the disc IS. The lift of the armature l5 is quite small. A relatively minute electric power can lift the valve closure to pass fuel to the pilot burner 3. This is effected by making the polar area very much greater than the cross sectional area of core 21. In order to complete the magnetic circuit, the core 21 is joined to a magnetic member 28 attached to the top of the core 21 and held in place by a clamp 29 in the housing 2!. This 5 housing II is also made of magnetic material in order to form an iron-clad electromagnet.

The electric energy to operate the valve closure I5 is supplied in this instance by the aid of thermocouple 30, having its hot junction in the pilot flame 2. Thus, the electromagnetic operator for the armature I5 is made responsive to the existence of a pilot flame. When the pilot flame is extinguished, as in the position of Fig. 1, the armature l5 interrupts the flow of fuel to the pilot burner.

In initiating the operation of the system from the quiescent or inactive stage illustrated in Fig. 1, it is necessary to provide a by-pass for the passageways l3 and M. This by-pass is partly formed by the passageway l2. This pasageway l2 connects to an upright passageway 3| which intersects the passage I4. The lower end of this passage connects to a tapered seat 32 in which a ball closure 33 is seated. This ball closure 33 is normally held in closed position by a compression spring 34. The lower end of the compression spring abuts the bottom of a recess 36 of a hollow screw 31 threaded into the lower portion of the body ii.

When it is desired to ignite the pilot burner 3 the ball 33 is urged downwardly against the force of spring 36 by a stem or strut 38 of square cross section which extends through the passage 3i. This stem or strut is disposed between the ball 33 and another ball 39 that is adapted to cooperate with a tapered seat 43 at the upper end of the pasageway 3!.

In order to urge the ball 33 downwardly to the position illlustrated in Fig. 5, use is made of an electromagnetic device mounted on the top of the body II. This electromagnet includes a coil 4| placed somewhat back of the housing M, as shown most clearly in Fig. 3. This coil M has a core 42 which is supported upon the lower leg of bracket 43. This bracket, in turn, is fastened as by the screws 45 to the top of the body N. This bracket is made of magnetic material and has an upright leg 45. This upright leg provides a support for the tilting armature 46. This armature $8 is urged to the upward position illustrated in Fig. 4 by the aid of a compression spring 41 surrounding a post 68. This post 48 is attached to the leg 45. The substantially horizontal portion 48' of the armature 4B is adapted to be attracted by the core 42 to assume the dot-anddash position of Fig. 4 when the coil 4! is energized.

The armature 46 carries an actuator arm l9 that cooperates with and contacts the upper end of a stem 50. When the electromagnet is energized, the stem 50 is urged downwardly to cause unseating of the ball 43.

To guide the stem 50 use is made of a standard 5| fastened to the top of the body H. Its lower enlarged end 52 rests on a flexible sealing diaphragm 53 extending between the standard 5! and'the upright surface of a boss 54 surrounding the opening 55 leading to the passage 3i. Carried by the lower surface of diaphragm 53 is a strut member that has a tapered seat at its bottom engaging the ball 39. This strut member 60 is appropriately guided in the passage 55.

When the electromagnetic coil 4! is energized, the stem 56 is urged downwardly, as shown in Fig. 5, and the ball 33 is unseated. Fuel can then flow directly to the pilot burner through passages l2 and 3i, passage I4, and conduit ill, to the burner 3.

In the form illustrated in Figs. 1 to 6, energizetion of the electromagnet coil 4! is obtained by a remote control push button. This remote control may include a push button switch 6|. This push button may be kept manually depressed until the system is in the active operating position of Fig. 6.

Power for operating the electromagnet it may be derived from a transformer 33 having a primary coil 64 that may be connected to an appropriate commercial source.

This transformer 63 is a step-down transformer having a secondary coil or winding 52.

The circuit for energizing the coil ll may now be traced as follows: from the secondary coil 62. push button il, connection 65, connection 63, coil 4|, and connection 61 to the lower terminal of winding 62.

Energization of this circuit simultaneously causes energization of the igniter 4. This igniter 4 is supplied through a transformer 68. This transformer has a secondary winding 88 for energizing the igniter 4, and a primary coil 18, the circuit of which is established only upon energization of the coil 4| and only when a pair of contacts 1| and 12 are in engagement. The manner of operating these contacts will be described hereinafter. It is suflicient for the present to note that, when the system is in the inactive position of Fig. 1, these contacts 1| and 12 are established.

When coil 4| is energized, the armature 48 also causes closing of another pair of contacts 13 and 14. Contact 13 is supported upon the member 48, as shown most clearly in Figs. 3 and 4. When the coil 4| is energized, the contact 13 is brought into engagement with the contact 14 mounted on a bracket 15. The contacts 13 and 14 are appropriately insulated from members 48 and 15. With the electromagnet coil 4| energized, the circuit for the primary coil 18 energizing the igniter 4 may be traced as follows: from secondary winding 62 of transformer 68, push button 8|, connection 65, primary winding 18, contacts 18 and 14, connection 16, contacts 1| and 12, connection 11, to the lower terminal of the secondary winding 62.

Soon after the pilot burner 8 is lighted by the igniter 4, the thermocouple 88 energizes the coil 26 and the button 6| may be released, de-energizing coil 4| and causing ball 33 to reseat. Under such circumstances gas can flow to the pilot burner 3, since'armature I5 is in the energized position of Fig. 6. Gas will fiow from conduit 8, passageways l2, l8, and H, to the conduit I8 and the pilot burner 3.

Contacts 1| and 12 are maintained in closed position until gaseous pressure is developed above a flexible diaphragm 18. This diaphragm 18 defines a pressure space or chamber 18 between the diaphragm 18 and the lower surface of the body This chamber or space 18 with the diaphragm 18 forms a pressure responsive device to condition the valve 1, so that it may be opened when heat is desired by the system.

The urging of the diaphragm 18 downwardly by gas pressure in chamber 18 makes it possible to open the main burner valve 1. However, since the flow of gas to the space 18 is restrained, in a manner to be hereinafter described, an appreciable time must elapse before this valve 1 may be opened, thereby ensuring that the pilot flame 2 is fully established and the system in condition to be fully active.

For this purpose use is made of a stationary contact 88 supported on a bracket 8| joined to the bottom of a cover member 82. This cover member has a flange 83 that overlies the diaphragm 18 and holds it securely in place.

Contact 88 is appropriately insulated from the bracket 8|. It cooperates with the movable contact 84 carried by the arm 85 that carries the contact 12 controlling the energization of the igniter 4. stationary contact 1| for the igniter circuit is insulatedly supported on a bracket 86 attached to the lower side of cover member 82. Of course, contacts 12 and 84 are both electrically joined to the arm 85. This arm, in turn, is insulatedly supported on a pivoted arm 81.

Arm 81 is pivoted by the aid of a pin 88 joining the ears 88 on arm 81 and the ears 88 mounted on the lower side of a bracket 8|. This bracket is also mounted on the lower cover member 82. A compression spring 82, extending between the bracket 8| and the lefthand extension of arm 81, urges the arm 81 upwardly to cause engagement between contacts 12 and 1| while the diaphragm 18 is in its uppermost position.

However, when gaseous fuel is admitted to the chamber 18, the diaphragm 18 is urged downwardly to the position illustrated in Fig. 6. When this position is reached, the arm 81 is in engagement between contacts 84 and 88. Motion of the diaphragm is transmitted to the arm 81 by a push rod 83 which is guided by the bushing 84. This bushing 84 is appropriately supported in cover member 82. The rod 83 is held in place on dia-; phragm 18 by the aid of a wide washer 85 overlying the diaphragm 18 and a nut 86 that is threaded on the rod 88. Rod 83 has a head 81 disposed over a washer 88 above the diaphragm 18. A threaded portion of the rod 88 extends through the diaphragm 18. The head 81 serves to limit the upward movement of the diaphragm toward the lower surface of the port A compression spring 81' below the diaphragm 18 urges the diaphragm upwardly, but it is capable of being compressed to the position shown in Fig. 6 when gas pressure is eifective in chamber 18.

In order to supply the chamber 18 with gaseous fuel after the pilot flame 2 is established, use is made of apassageway 88 that extends from the space below the diaphragm 53 to the space 18. The gaseous fuel, however, must pass through a restricted opening |88 in a hollow screw |8| threaded into the lower portion of the body ll. Accordingly, there is a time delay that elapses before the diaphragm 18 is urged downwardly to the active position of Fig. 6.

With the electromagnet coil 4| deenergized and the stem 58 urged upwardly by the force of the spring 84, fuel can flow through passageway 88 only when the armature I5 is attracted. This position is illustrated in Fig. 6 in which the fuel flow to the chamber 18 is efiected through passageways l2, 3| and 88, and the aperture I88. Accordingly, the contacts 88 and 84 cannot be established until the pilot flame 2 is established. In'order to ensure that, in the starting period illustrated in Fig. 5 (the coil 4| being energized) no fuel can pass through passageway 88, the ball 38 cooperates with the tapered seat 48 to prevent upward movement of gas through the passageway 8|. This starting position is illustrated in Fig. 5, the ball 88 being seated and interrupting the flow of fuel to the chamber 18.

However, as soon as the pilot burner 3 is ignited and the push button 6| released, the coil 4| is de-energizcd and the coil 26 is energized This raises the armature |5 to the'position of Fig. 6, and gas can now flow through passageways 12, 8|, and 88 to the chamber 18.

Thereupon, the arm 81 is gradually brought to the position of Fig. 6. In that position, thevalve 1 may be operated whenever the thermostat I82 (Fig. 1) requires more heat. This thermostat may be placed in the space to be heated to respond to the existingtemperature. "When the thermostat I82 closes contacts |83,'and the apparatus is in the active position of Fig. 6, the circuit for electromagnetically operating the valve 1 is completed through secondary winding 62, contacts I88, valve 1, connection I84, a pilot light I85, back to the upper trminal of the secondary winding 62.

While the system is active, therefore, the pilot flame 2 being in existence, this valve 1 may be energized and closed as desired by the system. However, should the pilot flame 2 become accidentally extinguished, the coil 26 is de-ener- 75 sized and the system returns to the inactive position of Fig. 2. The gaseous fuel exerting pressure in the chamber 19- is then free to flow from aperture I00, passageway 99, downwardly through port 3i and out through conduit I0, leading to the pilot burner 3. As soon as this chamber 19 is thus vented, the stem 93 retracts to the inactive position of Fig. 2 and contacts 89 and 84 are ultimately disengaged. Thereafter the thermostat I02 is ineffective to open the valve Nor can this valve be opened until after it is placed in operation by operating the igniter 4 and opening the by-pass I2 to the pilot burner.

A substantial delay occurs between the extinguishment of the pilot flame 2 and the closing of contacts 1] and 12'. This occurs since it takes an appreciable time for the diaphragm I8 to move to its uppermost position of Fig. 2.

This time delay is of considerable importance. It delays the re-energizing of the ignition circuit after a pilot flame failure, and thereby ensures against igniting the pilot burner until after there is an opportunity for the accumulated unconsumed gas to escape from the burner.

A resume of the operation of the system may now be set forth.

Assuming that the system has been shut down, as illustrated in Fig. l, the flow of gas to the pilot burner is interrupted by the armature I5. The main valve 1 cannot be opened by operation of thermostat I02, since contacts 80 and 86 are out of engagement.

Now, when push button BI is operated, the coil H is energized. This causes the ball 33 to be unseated and the ball 39 to be seated. Ball 33 opens the by-pass I2 to the pilot burner 3, and ball 39 simultaneously closes oif the conduit 39, preventing passage of fuel to the chamber 19. At the same time contacts 13 and 14 are closed, causing energization of the igniter 4 through contacts 1I and 12. Shortly after the pilot flame 2 is established, coil 28 is energized. The push button SI may now be released, de-energizing the coil H which, in turn, causes opening of the imiiter circuit through the contacts 13 and 14. Fuel can now pass slowly through by-pass I2, and passageways SI and 99, to the chamber 19. The push rod 03 opens contacts H and 12 and after an appreciable time establishes contacts 80 and 84. This position is shown in Fig. 6. Thereafter the thermostat I02 can control the opening of valve 1.

Upon flame failure, the electromagnet coil 26 is tie-energized, and the flow of fuel to the pilot burner 3 is interrupted by the closure armature I5, the chamber 19 is slowly vented through the aperture I30, and the system returns slowly to the inactive position of Figs. 1 and 2.

The pilot light I indicates when the main burner is conditioned for operation.

A dust-proof cover I05 can be placed over the upper portion of the body II, and can be held in place by the aid of the shoulder I01 formed on this body.

In the form just disclosed, the initiation of operation is efiected by remote control push button SI, which may be placed in any convenient location. In the form shown in Figs. '1 to 12, the operation is rendered simple by the elimination of the electromagnet coil 4L Instead, a reset button I03 is utilized to perform the function of the electromagnet "-42-".

The control apparatus I09 of this form includes a body member 110. The lower surface III of this body defines a pressure chamber II2 with the diaphragm I13. This diaphragm H3 operates a push rod H4 in a manner similar to the operation of push rod 93 in the first form. In this case the push rod II4 carries an insulation extension II5 to contact the arm 81 which, as before, carries the contacts 12 and 84. These contacts respectively cooperate with the contacts II and 80, and are utilized in a similar manner.

The inlet to the body H0 is obtained by the aid of the conduit IIG which leads, as by passageways III and H8, and chamber I26, to the port II9. From this port gaseous fuel can pass through passage I20 to the outlet conduit I2I, supplying gas to the pilot burner 3. The electromagnet structure I22, similar to the structure of the first form, and having an energizing coil I23, is mounted above the chamber I24 in communication with the passage I I8 and the port I I9. The armature I5 is arranged to be attracted as in the first form, when the pilot flame 2 is in existence, for opening the port H9 and thereby to pass fuel to the pilot burner 3.

In the inactive position illustrated in Fig. 3, the port H9 is closed and, therefore, the pilot flame is extinguished. In order to by-pass the port II9, a valve arrangement is provided within the body III). This valve arrangement is operated by the push button I08.

Thus, as shown most clearly in Fig. 9, the passage II8 serves to support a valve structure that controls the by-pass. This valve structure is enclosed in a valve body I25 threaded into the main body III) and into the chamber I26.

The valve body I25 is hollow and has a valve seat I21 adapted to be closed by a ball I28. This ball I28 is urged to its seat bythe aid of a compression spring I23. The left-hand end of this spring I29 is retained within the valve body I25, as by the spring ring I30.

A stem I3I is guided in the inner end of the valve body I25, and is adapted to unseat the ball I28 as shown in Fig. 11. When the ball is unseated, fuel can pass from passage I I8 through the aperture I32 in the valve body I25, and thence around the ball I28 through the passages I33 into chamber I26. Thence gas can flow through the passage I20 and to the pilot burner 2.

The stem I3I is pushed inwardly to the position of Fig. 11 by operation of the push button I08. This push button I08, as shown most clearly in Figs. 9, l1, and 12, may be made of insulating material, and may be threaded on a stem I36. This stem I36 projects inwardly and terminates in the large hollow portion I34. This portion I34 is guided in the aperture I35 in the body IIO. A packing is shown for the push button, including a hollow screw I31 threaded into the body H0 and having a packing washer I38. Its lefthand side is seated on a shoulder around the aperture I35. Another packing washer I39 is disposed on the inside of the screw I31. Both the washers I38 and I39 closely contact the stem I36.

A compression spring I40, having its left-hand end disposed in screw I31, urges the push button I08 toward the right, to the inactive position 11-- lustrated in Fig. 9.

The enlarged portion I34 carries an actuator I4I within the chamber I23. This actuator urges the stem I3I inwardly when the push button is pushed to the left, to the position shown in Fig. 11. In order further to guide the push button, a guide pin I42 is attached to the actuator MI and is guided in the recess I43 in the body mem ber III).

When the button is pushed inwardly to the winding I6 of the ignition transformer 68. For

this purpose the push button I68 carries an insulation arm 4.. This arm I44 operates to urge the spring contact arm I45 inwardly. This contact arm carries the contact member I46, co-

operating with the contact I4'I mounted on another spring arm l48. These spring arms are insulated from each other and are mounted upon the right-hand wall of the body II6, as seen in Figs. 11 and 12. For this purpose, insulation blocks and spacers I49 are provided, mounted on the base I56.

Accordingly, when the push button I66 is actuated, the ignition circuit is completed through the secondary winding 62 of the power transformer 63 as follows: from the left-hand terminal of the secondary winding 62, connection I5I, primary winding I6, contacts I46 and I41, connection I52, contacts II and I2, arm 81, back to the right-hand terminal of the secondary winding 62.

The push button I68 is kept urged inwardly until the pilot flame 2 is established. When this occurs, the electromagnet I22 is energized and closure member I5 uncovers the port H9. The fuel from the pilot burner can proceed through passageways H6 and Ill, through port H9 to chamber I26, and thence through passage I26 to conduit I2I.

A gaseous fuel pressure-responsive device is formed, as before, to urge contact 64 into engagement with contact 86. The chamber N2 of this device is in communication with chamber l26 through a passage I53, shown most clearly in Figs. 7 and 11. A hollow screw member I56 is threaded into the body II 6 to communicate with the passageway I53. This screw has a small opening I59 to retard the flow of gas to and from chamber H2.

Passage I53 has an annular valve seat I55. Normally, the gas finds its way from chamber I26 to the pressure chamber H2 through the aperture I56. However, when the push button I63 is actuated, this communication is interrupted by aid of a resilient valve closure I55. This valve closure is carried on a stem I 51 slidably mounted in the hollow enlarged portion 836. It is urged outwardly of this hollow portion by a compression spring I58. The outer edge of the hollow portion I34 is turned inwardly to restrain the stem I51. However, when the push button I68 is operated, the compressed, as shown in Fig. 11, and the passage I53 is closed by the closure member I56. Accordingly, during the period of ignition, no gas pressure can be exerted in chamber I I2.

The spring fingers I45 and I48 are covered by housing I66 appropriately fastened to the body II6. Furthermore, a housing I6I may be provided to cover the contact mechanism disposed below the cover plate I62.

The mode of operation of this form of the invention is substantially the same as that of the form illustrated in Figs. 1 to 6.

When the system is in the inactive position of Fig. 7, gaseous fuel is completely turned off both at the main burner valve 1 and the pilot valve closure H5. The push button I 66 is inactive, and the circuit for the igniter 4 is lie-energized at.

contacts I46 and I41. When the push button I68 is urged inwardly, the pasage I 53 is closed by the closure I56 and compression spring I58 is 5 the by-pass through the valve body I2! is opened to the pilot burner 3. At the same time, the circuit for the igniter is energized through contacts I46, I", 'II, and I2, since the arm 6'! is in the upper position.

Shortly after the pilot flame 2 is in existence, the electromagnet I22 operates and the fuel can be supplied to the pilot burner 3 through port I I9 and the chamber I26. This position is illustrated in Fig. 12. The push button I68 can now be released. This opens the passage I53 and gas slowly passes to the chamber II2. First, contacts I2 and II separate and, after an interval, the main burner valve contacts 86 and'84 are engaged. The main burner valve 1 can then be opened whenever the thermostat I65 demands more heat.

Upon accidental failure of the pilot flame 2; the ignition circuit cannot be re-established until after the diaphragm 3 assumes its uppermost position, as indicated in Fig. 8. Upon this occurring, the ignition circuit contacts I2 and II are re-established, and button I68 can be operated, The travel of the diaphragm I I3 to the in.- active position of 1 6g. 8 is delayed by the slow passage of the fuel as it is vented through the opening I59, chamber I26, the pflot burner 3.

The inventor claims:

1. In a gaseous fuel control system having a main burner, a valve for the main burner, and a pilot burner: means operated by the fluid pressure of the fuel for controlling the main valve; means responsive to the existence of a pilot flame at the pilot burner for passin fuel to the pilot burner as well as for passing fuel to said fluid pressure-operated means; and valve means to by-pass fuel to the pilot burner and simultaneously to prevent passage of fuel to the fluid pressure-operated means.

2. In a gaseous fuel control system having a main burner, a valve for the main burner, and a pilot .burner: means operated by the fluid pressure of the fuel for controlling the main valve; means responsive to the existence of a pilot flame passage I26, through at the pilot burner for passing fuel to the pilot burner as well as for passing fuel to said fluid pressure-operated means; means in the fluid fuel path to the fluid pressure-operated means for reducing the rate of flow to said fluid pressureoperated means; and valve means to by-pass fuel to the pilot burner and simultaneously to prevent passage of fuel to the fluid pressure-operated means.

3. In a gaseous fuel control system having a main burner, fuel supply means for the main burner, a valve for the main burner, a pilot burner, fuel supply means for the pilot burner, and an igniter for the pilot burner: means operated by the fluid pressure of the fuel passing to the pilot burner for controlling the main valve; mean operating upon pilot burner flame failure to prevent the passage of fuel to the pilot burner, relieving pressure on said pressure operated means; normally open valve means for controlling the passage of fuel to the fluid pressure operated means; and means for energizing the igniter and for operating said valve means for preventing passage of fuel to the fluid pressure operated means.

4. In a gaseous fuel control system having a main burner, fuel supply means for the main burner, a valve for the main burner, a, pflot burner, fuel supply means for the pilot burner, and an igniter for the pilot burner: means opll erated by the fluid pressure of the fuel passing to the pilot burner for controlling the main valve; means operating upon pilot burner flame failure to prevent the passage of fuel to the pilot burner,

'relieving pressure on said pressure operated means; normally open valve means for controlling the passage of fuel to the fluid pressure operated means; means for energizing the igniter and for operating said valve means for preventing passage of fuel to the fluid pressure-operated means; and means in the path of flow of fuel to the fluid pressure operated means for retarding the rate of flow to said fluid pressure operated means.

5. In a gaseous fuel control system havin a main burner, a valve for the main burner, a pilot burner, and an igniter for the pilot burner: means operated by the fluid pressure of the fuel for controlling the main valve; means responsive to the existence of a. pilot flame at the pilot burner for passing fuel to the pilot burner as well as for passing fuel to said fuel pressure operated means; valve means for by-passing fuel to the pilot burner and simultaneously to prevent passage of fuel to the fluid pressure operated means; and means for energizin the igniter and for simultaneously operating said valve means.

6. In a gaseous fuel control system having a main burner, a valve for the main burner, a pilot burner, and an igniter for the pilot burner: means operated by the fluid pressure of the fuel for controlling the main valve; means responsive to the existence of a pilot flame at the pilot burner for passing fuel to the pilot burner as well as for passing fuel to said fuel pressure operated means; valve means for by-passing fuel to the pilot burner and simultaneously to prevent passage of fuel to the fluid pressure operated means; means for energizing the igniter and for simultaneously operating said valve means; and means in the fluid fuel path to the fluid pressure operated means for reducing the rate of flow to said fluid pressure operated means.

'7. In a gaseous fuel control system having a main burner, a valve for the main burner, a. pilot burner, andan igniter for the pilot burner: means operated by the fluid pressure of the fuel for controlling the main valve; means responsive to the existence of a pilot flame at the pilot burner for passing fuel to the pilot burner as well as for passing fuel to said fuel pressure operated means; said pilot burner operating as a vent for the fuel from the fluid pressure operated means when said responsive means interrupts the flow of fuel due to failure of the pilot flame; valve means for by-passing fuel to the pilot burner and simultaneously to prevent passage of fuel to the fluid pressure operated means; means for energizing the igniter and for simultaneously operating said valve means; means in the fluid fuel path from the fluid pressure operated means to the pilot burner to reduce the rate of flow from said fluid pressure'operated means when said responsive means interrupts the flow of fuel.

8. In a gaseous fuel control system having a main burner, a valve for the main burner, a pilot burner, and an igniter for the pilot burner: means operated by the fluid pressure of the fuel for controlling the main valve so that the main valve cannot be opened until the said fluid pressure operated means attains an active position due to exertion of fluid pressure thereon; means responsive to the existence of a pilot flame for passing fuel to the fluid pressure normally open valve means for controlling the passage of fuel to the fluid pressure means; means for energizing the igniter; and means preventing energization of the igniter until the fluid pressure operated means attains a position in which the main valve is prevented from opening.

9. In a gaseous fuel control system having a main burner, a valve for the main burner, a pilot burner, and an igniter for the pilot burner: means operated by the fluid pressure of the fuel for controlling the main valve so that the main valve cannot be opened until the said fluid pressure operated means attains an active position due to exert-ion of fluid pressure thereon; means responsive to the existence of a pilot flame for passing fuel to the fluid pressure operated means as well as to the pilot burner; normally open valve means for controlling the passage of fuel to the fluid pressure means; means for energizing the igniter; means preventing energization of the igniter until the fluid pressure operated means attains a position in which the main valve is prevented from opening; and means delaying the return of said fluid pressure operated means to said position upon pilot flame failure.

10. In a gaseous fuel control system having a main burner, a valve for the main burner, a pilot burner, and an igniter for the pilot burner: means operated by the fluid pressure of the fuel for controlling the main valve so that the main valve cannot be opened until the said fluid pressure operated means attains an active position due to exertion of fluid pressure thereon; means responsive to the existence of a pilot flame for passing fuel to the fluid pressure operated means as well as to the pilot burner; valve means for by-passing fuel to the pilot burner and for preventing passage of fuel to the fluid pressure operated means; means for energizing the igniter and for simultaneously operating said valve means; and means preventing en- ,ergization of the igniter until the fluid pressure operated means attains a position in which the main valve is prevented from opening by outward flow of fuel from said fluid pressure operated means through the pilot burner upon pilot flame failure.

11. In a gaseous fuel control system having a main burner, a valve for the main burner, a. pilot burner, and an igniter for the pilot burner; means operated by the fluid pressure of the fuel for controlling the main valve so that the main valve cannot be opened until the said fluid pressure operated means attains an active position due to exertion of fluid pressure thereon; means responsive to the existence of a pilot flame for pasing fuel to the fluid pressure operated means as well as to the pilot burner; valve means for by-pasing fuel to the pilot burner and for preventing passage of fuel to the fluid pressure operated means; means for energizing the igniter and for simultaneously operating said valve means; means preventing energization of the igniter until the fluid pressure operated means attains a position in which the main valve is prevented from opening by outward flow of fuel from said fluid pressure operated means through the pilot burner upon pilot flame failure; and means delaying the said outward flow of fuel.

12. In a gaseous fuel control system having a main burner, a valve for the main burner. a pilot burner, and an electrically energized igniter for the pilot burner: means operated by the exeroperated means as well as to the pilot burner; "I; tion of pressure by the gaseous fuel for conditioning the main valve so that the main valve may be opened said pressure operated means having active and inactivepositions; means responsive to the existence of a pilot flame for passing fuel to said gaseous fuel pressure operated means; means for by-passing fuel to the pilot burner and for preventing passage of fuel to said gaseous fuel pressure operated means, said bypassing means having an active and an inactive position. the gaseous fuel pressure operated means being vented when the pilot flame is extinguished through the pilot burner; and a circuit for energizing the igniter, said circuit including two circuit controllers, both of which must be active to energize the igniter, one of the circuit controllers being operated by said by-passing means, and said gaseous fuel pressure operated means, when inactive operating the other circuit controller.

13. In a gaseous fuel control system having a main burner, a valve for the main burner, a pilot burner, and an electrically energized igniter for the pilot burner: means operated by the exertion of pressure by the gaseous fuel for conditioning the main valve so that the main valve may be opened said pressure operated means having active and inactive positions; means responsive to the existence of a pilot flame for passing fuel to said gaseous fuel pressure operated means; means for by-passing fuel to the pilot burner and for preventing passage of fuel to said gaseous fuel pressure operated means, said by-Dassing means having an active and an inactive position, the gaseous fuel pressure operated means being vented when the pilot flame is extinguished through the pilot burner; means for reducing the rate of gaseous fuel flow to or from said gaseous fuel pressure operated means; and a circuit for energizing the igniter, said circuit including two circuit controllers, both of which must be active to energize the igniter, one of the circuit controllers being operated by said by-passing means, and said gaseous fuel pressure operated means, when inactive, operating the other circuit controller.

14. In a gaseous fuel control system having a main burner, a valve for the main burner, a pilot burner, and an electrically energized igniter for the pilot burner: means operated by the exertion of pressure by the gaseous fuel for conditioning the main valve so that the main valve may be opened said pressure operated means having active and inactive positions; means responsive to the existence of a pilot flame for passing fuel to said gaseous fuel pressure operated means; electrically operated means for by-passing fuel to the pilot burner and for preventing passage of fuel to said gaseous fuel pressure operated means, said by-passing means having an active and an inactive position, the gaseous fuel pressure operated means being vented when the pilot flame is extinguished through the pilot burner; a remote control switch for operating said by-passing means; means for retarding the rate of passing fuel to or from the said gaseous fuel pressure operated means; and a circuit for energizing the igniter, said circuit including two circuit controllers, both of which must be active to energize the igniter, one of the circuit controllers being operated by said by-passing means, and said gaseous fuel pressure operated means, when inactive, operating the other circuit controler.

15. In a gaseous fuel control system having a main burner, a valve for the main burner, a pilot burner, and an electrically energized igniter for the pilot burner: means operated by the exertion of pressure by the gaseous fuel for conditioning the main valve so that the main valve may be opened said pressure operated means having active and inactive positions; means responsive to the existence of a pilot flame for passing fuel to said gaseous fuel pressure operated means; electrically operated means for by-passing fuel to the pilot burner and for preventing passage of fuel to said gaseous fuel pressure operated means, said by-passing means having an active and an inactive position, the gaseous fuel pressure operated means being vented when the pilot flame is extinguished through the pilot burner; a remote control switch for operating said bypassing means; and a circuit for energizing the igniter, said circuit including two circuit controllers, both of which must be active to energize the igniter, one of the circuit controllers being operated by said by-passing means, and said gaseous fuel pressure operated means, when in- 7 active, operating the other circuitcontroller.

16. In a gaseous fuel-control system having a main burner, a valve for the main burner, a pilot burner, and an electrically energized igniter for the pilot burner: means operated by the exertion of pressure by the gaseous fuel for conditioning the main valve so that the main valve may'be opened said pressure operated means having active and inactive positions; means responsive to the existence of a pilot flame for passing fuel to said gaseous fuel pressure oper ated means; means for by-passing fuel to the pilot burner and for preventing passage of fuel to said gaseous fuel pressure operated means, said by-passing means having an active and an inactive position, the gaseous fuel pressure operated means being vented when the pilot flame is extinguished through the pilot burner; a push button having a normally inactive position, for mechanically operating said lay-passing means; and a circuit for energizing the igniter, said circuit including two circuit controllers, both of which must be active to energize the igniter, one of the circuit controllers being operated by said by-passing means, and said gaseous fuel pressure operated means, when inactive, operating the other circuit controller.

17. In a gaseous fuel control system having a main burner, a valve for the main burner, a pilot burner, and an electrically energized igniter for the pilot burner: means forming alternate passageways for supplying fuel to the pilot burner; means responsive to the existence of a pilot flame for opening one of the passageways; means dependent upon the opening of said one passageway conditioning the main burner valve so that it may be opened, said conditioning means having an active and an inactive position; means for initiating operation of the system including means for opening the other passa'geway; and a circuit for energizing the igniter, said circuit including a pair of circuit controllers for jointly controlling the energization of the igniter, one of the circuit'controllers being operated by the means for opening the other passageway, and the other circuit controller being operated by the said conditioning means when said conditioning means is in inactive position.

18. In a gaseous fuel control system having a main burner, a valve for the main burner, a pilot burner, and an electrically energized igniter for the pilot burner: means forming alternate passageways for supplying fuel to the pilot burner; means responsive to the existence of a pilot flame for opening one of the passageways; means operated by the pressure of the fuel passing through said one passageway conditioning the main burner valve so that it may be opened, said conditioning means having an active and an inactive position; means for initiating operation of the syslem including means for opening the other passageway; a circuit for energizing the igniter, said circuit including a pair of circuit controllers-for jointly controlling the energization of the igniter, one of the circuit controllers being operated by the means for opening the other passageway, and the other circuit controller being operated by the said conditioning means when said conditioning means is in inactive position; and means for reducing the flow of fuel to the said fuel pressure operated means.

19. In a gaseous fuel control system having a:

main burner, a valve for the main burner, a pilot burner, and an electrically energized igniter for the pilot burner: means forming alternate passageways for supplying fuel to the pilot burner; means responsive to the existence of a pilot flame for opening one of the passageways; means dependent upon the openin of said one passageway conditionin the main burner 'valve so that it may be opened, said conditioning the other passageway, and the other circuit con-- troller being operated by the said conditioning means when said conditioning means is in inactive position. i

20. In a control apparatus for a gaseous fuel system having a pilot burner: a body having a gas inlet and a gas outlet; there being a pair of conduits between the inlet and the outlet providing alternate fuel passageways to said pilot burner, as wellas a branch conduit connected with each of the pair of conduits; means forming a fluid pressure chamber having a movable wall and connected to the branch conduit; a. valve controllin one of said pair of conduits according to the operating conditions of said pilot 16 burner; and valve means for interrupting flow to the chamber through the branch conduit and for connecting the other of said pair of conduits with the outlet.

21. In a control apparatus for a gaseous fuel system having a pilot burner: a body having a gas inlet and a. gas outlet; there being a pair of conduits between the inlet and the outlet providing alternate fuel passageways to said pilot burner, as well as a branch conduit connected with each of the pair of conduits; means forming a fluid pressure chamber having a movable wall and connected to the branch conduit; a valve controlling one of said pair of conduits accordin to the operating conditions of said pilot burner; and valve means for interrupting flow to the chamber through the branch conduit and for connecting the other of said pair of conduits with the outlet, comprising a valve stem extending through the branch conduit and a. pair of valve closure means connected to the stem.

22. In a control apparatus for a gaseous fuel system having a pilot burner: a body having a gas inlet and a gas outlet; there being a pair of conduits between the inlet and the outlet providing alternate fuel passageways to said pilot burner, as well as a branch conduit connected with each of the pair of conduits; means forming a fluid pressure chamber having a movable wall and connected to the branch conduit; a valve controllin one of said pair of conduits according to the operating conditions of said pilot burner; and valve means for interrupting flow to the chamber through the branch conduit and for connecting the other of said pair of conduits with the outlet, comprising a push button having means urging the push button to inactive position, a valve closure for interrupting flow of gas to the chamber and carried by the button, and valve means in the other of said conduits and operated to open position by the push button.

" WILLIAM A. RAY.

REFERENCES CITED The following references are of record in the file of this patent:

UNITED STATES PATENTS Number Name Date 2,273,127 McGoldrick et al. Feb. 17, 1942 2,305,242 English Dec. 15, 1942 2,407,438 Newman Sept. 10, 1946 2,408,673 Moorhead Oct. 1, 1946

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