Eclipse, Inc.

Eclipse Combustion, Inc.

Gary G Wild

John D Eley

A control system for a multiple burner furnace has a programmable processor interfaced to hardware input and output circuitry associated with the furnace. The programmed processor provides a number of operating modules including a polling module, a startup module, a run module, and an alarm module. The processor and the associated hardware are interlocked in such a fashion that safe operation of the furnace is assured. For example, watchdog timers driven from the processor are interlocked with flame sensing hardware to control the main fuel valve and prevent fuel from flowing to the furnace in the event of either hardware or software malfunction. The safety features are equivalent to or better than a hardwired dedicated control system, while providing additional program-related flexibility and functionality.

Multiple burner control system

A standalone modular flame sensor containing a multi-function power supply having outputs for both a flame rod and an ultraviolet transducer. The module also contains interfaces for the ultraviolet transducer and for the flame rod transducer. The interfaces are brought together at a summing junction arranged so that the module will work with either a flame rod, an ultraviolet transducer, or both such transducers. Output circuitry provides not only a flame-on/flame-off indication (both visible via an LED and a switch contact closure), but also provides a continuously variable signal indicating the quality of the sensed flame. The module can be used standalone with either transducer type or incorporated in a more complex control system.

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Rockford, IL, United States of America

Gary G Wild