The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Jul. 08, 1997
Filed:
Jul. 16, 1996
Doug Crank, Holland, MI (US);
John Carter, Holland, MI (US);
Donnelly Corporation, Holland, MI (US);
Abstract
A distribution manifold assembly for carrying a fluid includes a manifold body having at least one fluid channel running therethrough, and at least one infrared radiation source dimensioned and disposed to apply infrared radiation to the external surface of the manifold body. If desired, a control means controls the application of infrared radiation by within the fluid channel remains substantially constant. An insulation layer can surround at least a portion of the manifold body, and this insulation layer is disposed so as not to obstruct completely the infrared radiation source. In a second embodiment, the manifold assembly has a primary manifold body having at least one fluid channel running therethrough, and first and second surfaces so that there are first and second elongate hollows. First and second infrared radiation sources are contained within the elongate hollows. A method of heating a fluid distribution manifold having an internal fluid channel is also provided.