초록 ▼

A low voltage battery energized passive detection system generates a control signal in response to radiated heat from a human body part to open a solenoid operated valve for a predetermined limited time period. In anticipation of a reduction of available DC power, voltage level sensing circuitry dis

A low voltage battery energized passive detection system generates a control signal in response to radiated heat from a human body part to open a solenoid operated valve for a predetermined limited time period. In anticipation of a reduction of available DC power, voltage level sensing circuitry disables the valve in the closed position to prevent the valve from remaining in the open position due to an insufficiency of DC power to effect closure of the valve.

대표청구항 ▼

A passive apparatus for controlling the operation of a fluid flow control valve in response to the presence of a human body part, said apparatus comprising in combination: (a) a sensor for detecting heat irradiating from a human body part within a predetermined detection field and for producing an o

A passive apparatus for controlling the operation of a fluid flow control valve in response to the presence of a human body part, said apparatus comprising in combination: (a) a sensor for detecting heat irradiating from a human body part within a predetermined detection field and for producing an output signal in response to such detection; (b) means for amplifying the output signal; (c) means for opening the valve to permit fluid flow therethrough in response to the amplified signal; (d) means for closing the valve after a predetermined time period; (e) a low voltage power source for energizing said apparatus; (f) means for determining the voltage of said power source while the valve is open; (g) means for comparing the determined voltage with a predetermined voltage and for generating a control signal if the determined voltage is below the predetermined voltage; and (h) means for closing the valve in response to generation of the control signal. A passive method for controlling the operation of a fluid flow control valve in response to the presence of a human body part, said method comprising the steps of: (a) detecting heat irradiating from a human body part placed within a predetermined detection field and producing an output signal in response to said step of detecting; (b) amplifying the output signal; (c) opening the valve to permit fluid flow therethrough in response to the amplified signal; (d) closing the valve after a predetermined time period; (e) energizing the control and operation of the valve with a low voltage power source; (f) determining the voltage of the power source while the valve is open; (g) comparing the voltage determined during said step of determining with a predetermined voltage and generating a control signal if the determined voltage is below the predetermined voltage; and (h) closing the valve in response to generation of the control signal.