Method and apparatus for indicating the presence of flame

Abstract

Methods and apparatus for indicating the presence of a flame are disclosed. An example gas grill includes: a burner tube having an aperture for discharging fuel for combustion; an ignition element for causing ignition of the fuel discharged from the aperture of the burner tube; a flame sensor for detecting the presence of a flame associated with the combustion of the fuel discharged from the aperture of the burner tube; and a flame sensing circuit including a flame signal accessor for accessing a flame sensing signal from the flame sensor, and a terminal for outputting an indication of the presence of a flame, the indication of the presence of a flame being output regardless of an open state or a closed state of a lid of the grill.

Description

[0001] Related Applications

[0002] This patent claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 959,647, filed on January 10, 2020. U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 959,647 is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 959,647 is hereby claimed. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to barbecue grills and, more particularly, to methods and apparatus for indicating the presence of a flame. Background Art

[0004] Gas grill systems operate by discharging fuel (e.g., natural gas, propane, etc.) through one or more orifices for combustion. A valve is used to control the amount of fuel discharged for combustion. The combustion of the fuel produces flames and / or elevated temperatures, which are useful for cooking food. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example gas grill constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0006] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a cooking system of a gas grill including a flame indicator and a flame sensor.

[0007] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A Side view of a cooking system showing the placement of a flame sensor relative to a seasoning station.

[0008] Figure 2C yes Figure 2A Side view of a cooking system showing a flame sensor partially obscured by a condiment station.

[0009] Figure 2D yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a cooking system of a gas grill.

[0010] Figure 3 is a perspective view of an example cooking system using a ceramic harness to support a flame sensor and igniter.

[0011] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A stereogram of an example ceramic harness.

[0012] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 and / or Figure 4 Alternate view of an example ceramic harness.

[0013] Figure 6 is a top view of an example gas grill showing the placement of a ceramic harness and a flame sensor relative to corresponding burner tubes of the example gas grill.

[0014] Figure 7 is a block diagram of an example flame ignition and sensing system.

[0015] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A block diagram of an example configuration of a flame ignition and sensing system having an isolated igniter.

[0016] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing the placement of multiple flame sensors relative to the expected position of the flame.

[0017] Fig.10 is to show the relative position of multiple flame sensors Fig. 9 Diagram of alternative placements of the intended position of the flame.

[0018] Fig.11A A switch using a single flame rod and electrical grounding Figure 7 A block diagram of an example configuration of a flame ignition and sensing system.

[0019] Fig. 11B A switch using a single flame rod and electrical grounding Figure 7 Block diagram of an example alternative configuration of a flame ignition and sensing system.

[0020] Fig.12 is a block diagram illustrating an example implementation of the switch of FIG. 11 .

[0021] Fig.13 Is constructed using an isolated flame rod Figure 7 A block diagram of an example configuration of a flame ignition and sensing system.

[0022] Fig.14 is a block diagram of an example system including three flame sensing circuits and a central controller.

[0023] Fig.15 yes Fig.14 A block diagram of an example implementation of a controller.

[0024] Fig.16 is a flow chart representative of example machine readable instructions that, when executed, cause at least one machine to indicate the presence of flame.

[0025] Fig.17 is a flowchart representing example machine readable instructions that, when executed, cause Fig.15 The controller monitors the flame status.

[0026] Fig.18 is constructed to execute Fig.17 Instructions to achieve Fig.15 Block diagram of an example processor platform for an example controller of FIG.

[0027] Fig.19 is used to convert software (for example, corresponding to Fig.16 and / or Fig.17 Block diagram of an example software distribution platform for distributing software containing example computer-readable instructions (e.g., software comprising computer-readable instructions) to client devices such as consumers (e.g., for licensing, sale, and / or use), retailers (e.g., for sale, resale, licensing, and / or sub-licensing), and / or original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) (e.g., for inclusion in products to be distributed to, e.g., retailers and / or direct purchasing consumers).

[0028] The drawings are not drawn to scale. On the contrary, in the drawings, the thickness of the layer or region may be magnified. Generally, the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings and the attached written description to refer to the same or similar parts. As used in this patent, the statement that any part (such as a layer, film, region, zone or plate) is on another part in any way (such as being positioned on another part, being located on another part, being arranged on another part or being formed on another part, etc.) indicates that the referenced part is in contact with another part, or the referenced part is above another part, wherein one or more intermediate parts are located between the referenced part and another part. Connection references (such as attachment, connection, connection and engagement) should be interpreted broadly, and unless otherwise specified, may include intermediate members between a collection of elements and relative movement between elements. Therefore, connection references do not necessarily mean that two elements are directly connected and are in a fixed relationship with each other. The statement that any part "contacts" another part indicates that there is no intermediate part between the two parts. Although the drawings show layers and regions with clear lines and boundaries, some or all of these lines and / or boundaries may be idealized. In practice, the boundaries and / or lines may be invisible, blended, and / or irregular.

[0029] When identifying multiple elements or components that may be mentioned separately, the descriptors "first", "second", "third", etc. are used herein. Unless otherwise specified or understood based on the context of their use, such descriptors are not intended to impose any priority, physical order or arrangement in a list, or time ordering, but are only used as labels for referring to multiple elements or components respectively to facilitate understanding of the disclosed examples. In some examples, the descriptor "first" can be used to refer to an element in the detailed description, while the same element can be referred to in the claims by different descriptors such as "second" or "third". In such cases, it should be understood that such descriptors are only used to facilitate reference to multiple elements or components. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Gas grill systems operate by discharging fuel (e.g., natural gas, propane, etc.) through one or more orifices for combustion, which produces flames and / or elevated temperatures for cooking food. However, in some cases, the fuel may be discharged through the one or more orifices without burning. In some examples, the user of the grill may not know the status of the flame (e.g., the burning of the fuel) without opening the lid. Without opening the lid of the grill, this makes it difficult for the user to identify whether the grill is lit when lighting the grill and to visually check the burner to identify whether the flame is present. In addition, due to the nature of working with flammable fuels, some users are afraid of grilling and prefer to be able to know whether the grill is lit without opening the lid.

[0031] In some examples, the flame may go out (e.g., due to wind), causing the grill to need to be re-lit. The user may not realize that the flame is out for a period of time, especially if the only way to detect the outage condition is to open the lid and check the flame. In some cases, this may present an undesirable and / or dangerous situation where fuel is discharged into the cooking area (e.g., the interior chamber of the grill) without being burned.

[0032] The example methods disclosed herein utilize a flame sensing system and an external indicator to reliably indicate to a user whether a flame is present. In some examples, a separate indicator is provided for each burner so that a user can know the status of each individual burner. In some examples, the example flame sensing system is used to additionally or alternatively indicate the temperature of an element of a barbecue grill. In this way, the flame sensing system can be used to indicate to a user whether an element (e.g., a barbecue grill, a burner, etc.) is hot (e.g., when the temperature of the element exceeds a temperature threshold).

[0033] Figure 1is a perspective view of an example gas grill 100 constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. The example grill 100 includes a cover 105, an igniter button 107, knobs 110, 120, 130, external indicators 112, 122, 132, and a control panel 140.

[0034] Figure 1 The example cover 105 of the illustrated example forms an enclosure surrounding the cooking area. Figure 1 In the illustrated example of FIG, the lid 105 is shown in a closed state. In the closed state, the user cannot visually see and / or inspect the burners within the cooking area. As a result, the user cannot visually determine whether a flame is present (e.g., during initial ignition of the grill and / or during cooking) without opening the lid. Figure 1 In the illustrated example of the cover, the cover is opened by rotating the cover upwards around a hinge at the rear of the cover. However, any other method for opening the cover (e.g., lifting the cover completely off the grill) may be used in addition or alternatively.

[0035] Figure 1 The example igniter button 107 of the illustrated example enables one or more igniters to output power to an ignition element, thereby causing ignition of fuel discharged from a burner tube of a barbecue grill. In some examples, the ignition element is implemented as a spark electrode. In such examples, a voltage applied to the spark electrode causes the generation of a spark to ignite the fuel. In some other examples, a hot surface igniter is used. In such an example, the voltage applied to the hot surface igniter causes the surface of the igniter to heat to a temperature that causes combustion of the fuel. Although the examples disclosed throughout this application relate to the use of spark electrodes, a hot surface igniter can be used instead of a spark electrode.

[0036] exist Figure 1 In the illustrated example of , the ignition button 107 is implemented using a button that is enabled when the button is pressed. However, any other type of input device that is activated in any other way may be used in addition or alternatively. Figure 1 In the illustrated example of the single igniter button 107 is shown, but in some examples, a separate igniter button corresponding to each burner can be used. In addition, in some examples, the igniter button 107 can be omitted, and the ignition can be controlled by, for example, a controller (e.g., a microprocessor or other electronic components).

[0037] Figure 1 The example knobs 110, 120, 130 of the illustrated example are rotary knobs for turning a valve that controls a Figure 2AThe amount of fuel discharged by the corresponding burner tube 215, 225, 235 is determined by the knob 110. For example, rotating the knob 110 clockwise causes the amount of fuel discharged by the burner 215 to increase. However, any other type of input device (e.g., a slider, a digital input device, a switch, etc.) may be used in addition or alternatively. In some examples, rather than directly turning the valves that control the amount of fuel discharged by the corresponding burner tubes, the example knobs may be used as input devices that send signals to a central controller (e.g., a microcontroller or other electronic component) that electronically controls these valves.

[0038] Figure 1 The example flame indicators 112, 122, 132 of the illustrated example enable a visual indication of the presence or absence of a flame to be provided to a user of the grill 100. In the examples disclosed herein, the flame indicators 112, 122, 132 are implemented using light pipes mounted to a PCB that facilitates positioning the module on the front control panel of the grill 100. The mounting hardware that positions the (one or more) flame indicators 112, 122, 132 is hidden behind the (one or more) knobs 110, 120, 130. In the examples disclosed herein, after sensing the DC flame conduction, a light emitting diode (LED) (and / or any other light source) illuminates the light pipe. In the examples disclosed herein, the flame indicators 112, 122, 132 and / or the flame detection circuit associated with the flame indicators 112, 122, 132 continuously detect the presence of a flame and provide an indication of the presence of a flame as long as sufficient battery power is supplied. This allows the grill user to know the burner status without opening the lid. Additionally or alternatively, detection of the presence of a flame may be performed periodically to conserve battery power. Such periodic sensing may be performed relatively quickly (e.g., every second, every tenth of a second, etc.) to achieve a fast response time for indicating the presence of a flame while conserving energy.

[0039] Figure 1 The example control panel 140 of the illustrated example includes display elements that enable a user to interact with the grill 100. For example, a temperature reading (e.g., from a temperature probe used in the grill) can be displayed on a display of the control panel 140. In some examples, an indication of whether a flame is present can be displayed on the control panel 140 (e.g., in addition to and / or in lieu of the flame indicators 112, 122, 132). In some examples, the control panel 140 enables a user to provide input to the grill 100, such as to set a desired temperature for a cooking process, control the ignition of a flame, etc.

[0040] exist Figure 1In the illustrated example of the grill 100, three knobs 110, 120, 130 and three flame indicators 112, 122, 132 corresponding to three burner tubes are shown. However, any number of knobs, flame indicators and / or burner tubes and / or combinations thereof may be used. For example, the grill 100 may use four burner tubes and four corresponding knobs and flame indicators. In some examples, a single flame indicator may be used for all burner tubes.

[0041] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 2. The cooking system 200 of the example gas grill includes knobs 110, 120, 130, flame indicators 112, 122, 132, valves 214, 224, 234, burner tubes 215, 225, 235, spark electrodes 217, 227, 237, and flame sensors 218, 219, 228, 229, 238, 239.

[0042] Figure 2A The example valves 214, 224, 234 of the illustrated example connect the main fuel line 240 to each of the corresponding burner tubes 215, 225, 235. Each of the valves 214, 224, 234 is controlled to an open position, a closed position, or a position intermediate the open and closed positions by their corresponding knobs 110, 120, 130. In some examples, the position of the valves can be electronically controlled by a central controller.

[0043] Figure 2A The example burner tubes 215, 225, 235 of the illustrated example are metal tubes that include holes for discharging fuel (e.g., gas) into the cooking area for ignition and combustion. Figure 2A In the illustrated example of , these holes are located along the top of the burner tube. However, these holes can be located in any other position and / or orientation. Fuel is supplied to the burner tubes 215, 225, 235 through valves 214, 224, 234 (e.g., based on the position of the corresponding knobs 110, 120, 130).

[0044] exist Figure 2A In the illustrated example of FIG. , three burner tubes 215, 225, 235 are shown. However, any number of burner tubes may be used in addition or in the alternative. Figure 2A In the illustrated example, the burner tubes 215, 225, 235 are oriented in a front-to-back configuration, but any other past, present and / or future burner tube configurations, such as a side-to-side configuration, may be used in addition or alternatively. In some examples, additional burner tubes may be used for different types of cooking, such as grilling.

[0045] Figure 2A The example spark electrodes 217, 227, 237 of the illustrated examples are implemented using conductive electrodes used as spark plugs to generate sparks. In the examples disclosed herein, the spark electrodes 217, 227, 237 are placed directly in the path of the fuel discharged from the burner tubes 215, 225, 235. The spark electrodes 217, 227, 237 generate sparks (e.g., typically at a rate of two to four sparks per second) that cause ignition of the fuel discharged from the burner tubes 215, 225, 235. Although in the examples disclosed herein, spark electrodes are used to generate sparks, any other type of ignition element may be used in addition or alternatively. For example, a hot surface igniter may be used in place of a spark electrode. A hot surface igniter is an igniter that emits heat when a voltage is applied, thereby causing combustion of the fuel discharged from the nearby burner tubes. In some examples, multiple different types of ignition elements may be used in the same grill. For example, different ignition elements may be used with different burner tubes and / or burner tube types, multiple ignition elements may be used in conjunction with a particular burner tube, and so forth.

[0046] Figure 2A The example flame sensors 218, 219, 228, 229, 238, 239 of the illustrated example sense the flames emitted from the burner tubes 215, 225, 235. In the examples disclosed herein, the flame sensors 218, 219, 228, 229, 238, 239 use However, any other sensor may be used in addition or alternatively. For example, the flame sensor may be implemented using any other metal and / or conductive material, including, for example, stainless steel, mixed metal oxides, etc. Figure 2A In the illustrated example of , the flame sensor includes a rod with two ninety degree bends. The ninety degree bend enables a portion of the flame sensor rod to be physically proximate to the burner tube(s) (e.g., proximate to the expected location of the flame) and also enables the mounting point of the flame sensors 218, 219, 228, 229, 238, 239 to be moved away from the expected location of the flame. This approach enables detection of high heat (e.g., flame) while moving the mounting point of the flame sensor away from the expected location of the flame, thereby extending the expected life of the flame sensor.

[0047] exist Figure 2A In the illustrated example of , two flame sensors are shown associated with each burner tube. Figure 2AEach flame sensor includes a single rod for sensing the presence of a flame. However, in some examples, a single flame sensor (e.g., a flame sensor module) having multiple rods may be used additionally or alternatively. In addition, a different flame sensor module and / or flame sensor module configuration may be used in association with each different burner. This approach enables different types of sensing to be performed in association with different burners. For example, a "high heat" burner (e.g., a burner for grilling food) may utilize a different flame sensor module configuration that includes three or more flame rods that are oriented so that the size of the flame can be detected.

[0048] In some examples, the burner may be a "side burner" and may be mounted to the side of the grill 100 to enable a user to heat a pot and / or other cooking vessel outside the cooking area (e.g., under the lid). In such an example, the flame sensor may be positioned at the expected location of the flame of the side burner.

[0049] In the examples disclosed in this article, using The low current DC voltage on the rod is used to sense the flame to minimize power consumption. In some examples, the (one or more) burner tubes 215, 225, 235 are grounded. As a result, when a flame is present, there is a conductive path from the (one or more) flame sensors 218, 219, 228, 229, 238, 239 to the corresponding burner tubes 215, 225, 235.

[0050] In the examples disclosed herein, the flame detection system is separated from the ignition system to eliminate interference from the igniter and / or spark electrode. This also allows for simplified harnessing of the production process. Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and / or Figure 6 Example arrangements are described in further detail.

[0051] exist Figure 2A In the example shown in FIG. 1 , two flame sensors are shown for each burner tube. Fig.13As described, this configuration enables the voltage across two flame sensors to be measured, rather than across the flame sensor and chassis (and / or burner tube). This also allows the flame sensing to be electrically isolated from the spark electrode and / or ignition system, which may result in undesirable electrical noise (e.g., when attempting to ignite a flame and sense the presence of a flame at approximately the same time). However, any number of flame sensors may be used for each burner tube (e.g., a single flame sensor may be used in association with each burner tube, three flame sensors may be used in association with each burner tube, etc.). Using a single flame sensor (while reducing the manufacturing costs associated with an additional flame sensor) requires a sensing path between the flame sensor and a ground location, which may be achieved using the burner tube, the chassis of the grill, another electrode, an ignition element (e.g., a spark electrode). This approach also drives additional electrical noise and / or grounding considerations, as the spark igniter may utilize a similar ground path through the burner tube and / or chassis.

[0052] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A A side view of the cooking system 200 is shown showing the placement of the flame sensors 218, 219 relative to the seasoning station 270. Figure 2B In the illustrated example of , the flame sensors 218, 219 are secured to a chassis 281 of the barbecue grill. Figure 2B The example chassis 281 of the illustrated example surrounds the cooking area and provides mounting locations for components such as the burner tube 215 and flame sensors 218 , 219 .

[0053] Figure 2B The example seasoning station 270 of the illustrated example is an angled or slanted metal piece located above the corresponding burner tubes 215, 225, 235. The seasoning station 270 helps add a "cooked on the grill" flavor to the food being cooked on the grill 100. The drippings, marinades, and juices from the food being cooked above the seasoning station 270 fall onto the hot seasoning station 270, are evaporated, and circulate back up to the food, imparting additional flavor to the food. As an additional advantage, the seasoning station 270 protects the burner tubes 215 and the flame sensor(s) 218, 219 from the drippings from the cooking food, which otherwise might interfere with the ability of the flame sensor(s) to accurately sense the presence of a flame.

[0054] Figure 2C yes Figure 2A A side view of the cooking system 200 is shown with the flame sensor partially obscured by the seasoning station 270. Figure 2CIn the illustrated example of , the bottom portion of the flame sensors 218, 219 is shown extending below the bottom edge of the seasoning station 270. In some examples, the bottom portion of the flame sensors 218, 219 can be raised to a point above the bottom edge of the seasoning station 270.

[0055] Figure 2D yes Figure 2A A perspective view of a cooking system 200 is shown. Figure 2D In the illustrated example of FIG. 2 , the flame sensors 218, 219 are attached to the chassis 281 in parallel relative to the top of the chassis (e.g., the plane to which the grill grill 282 is secured). However, the flame sensors 218, 219 may be secured in any orientation. Additionally, in some examples, a single flame sensor 218 may be used in association with each burner, rather than Figure 2D The two flame sensors shown in the figure are constructed.

[0056] Figure 3 is a perspective view of an example cooking system 300 that uses a ceramic harness 310 to support a flame sensor 315 and a spark electrode. The example cooking system 300 includes a knob 110, a flame indicator 112, a burner tube 215, a daisy chain header 305, a ceramic harness 310, and a flame sensor 315.

[0057] exist Figure 3 In the illustrated example of the embodiment, the flame indicator 112 includes an opening that enables the use of a single light emitting diode (LED) to indicate the presence of a flame from the burner tube 215. The example flame indicator 112 includes a daisy chain header 305 that enables the flame indicator 112 to receive power and / or communicate with a central controller (e.g., to indicate the presence of a flame).

[0058] Figure 3 The example ceramic harness 310 of the illustrated example is used to support the flame sensor 315 and the spark electrode (in Figure 3 In this manner, the ceramic harness 310 positions the flame sensor 315 where a flame is expected (e.g., above the hole of the burner tube 215). Figure 3 The flame sensor 315 is bent so that the end of the flame sensor 315 is positioned above the hole of the burner tube. Figure 3In the illustrated example of , a single ninety degree bend is shown, but in some examples, multiple bends may be used and / or varying bend angles may be used. Different amounts of bends in flame sensor 315 position the end of flame sensor 315 at different locations, which may affect the ability of the flame to conduct current between the flame rod and the burner tube. In this way, the amount of resistance to be measured across the flame sensor to ground may be controlled.

[0059] In addition, the ceramic harness 310 positions the spark electrode at a location where a spark formed between the spark electrode and the burner tube 215 may ignite fuel discharged from the bore of the burner tube 215. In some examples, the spark will be formed between the spark electrode and the flame sensor. In such examples, it may be advantageous to bend the flame sensor in a manner that causes at least a portion of the flame rod to be in close proximity to the spark electrode.

[0060] exist Figure 3 In the illustrated example of , the ceramic harness 310 is made of a ceramic material. In particular, the ceramic material is used due to its heat resistance and its electrical insulation properties. As such, the ceramic harness will not break and / or deform when exposed to heat near a flame. Additionally, the ceramic material provides electrical insulation and / or isolation between the flame sensor 315 and the spark electrode.

[0061] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of an example ceramic harness 310 is shown. Figure 4 In the illustrated example of FIG. 1 , a first channel 410 and a second channel 420 of the ceramic harness 310 are shown. The first channel 410 allows the ceramic harness 310 to receive the spark electrode, while the second channel 420 allows the ceramic harness 310 to receive the flame sensor 315. In the example disclosed herein, the flame sensor 315 is inserted into the second channel 420, and then the end of the flame sensor 315 is bent to allow the end to be placed over the hole of the burner tube.

[0062] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 and / or Figure 4 Alternative view of an example ceramic harness. Figure 4 The example view shows the first end of the first channel 410 and the second channel 420, but Figure 5 The exemplary view of FIG. 4 shows the second ends of the first channel 410 and the second channel 420. Figure 5In the illustrated example of the spark electrode 505 is inserted into the first passage 410 and protrudes beyond the first surface 510 of the ceramic harness 310 into the cavity 520 formed by the ceramic harness 310. The example spark electrode 505 is then bent toward the burner tube to reduce the distance between the spark electrode 505 and the burner tube. When the ceramic harness 310 is mounted over the hole of the burner tube, the cavity 520 is positioned over the hole of the burner tube. In this way, when the valve is opened and fuel is discharged from the hole, the fuel will collect in the cavity 520, thereby increasing the likelihood of combustion when the spark electrode is used to generate a spark.

[0063] Figure 5 The illustrated example of also shows a bend in the flame sensor 315 that allows at least a portion of the flame sensor 315 to be positioned above the corresponding burner tube (eg, where the flame is expected to be). Figure 5 In the illustrated example of , the bend is approximately ninety degrees. However, any amount of bend may additionally or alternatively be used.

[0064] Figure 6 is a top view of an example gas grill showing the placement of the ceramic harnesses 310, 620, 630 and flame sensors 315, 625, 635 relative to the corresponding burner tubes 215, 225, 235 of the example gas grill. Figure 6 In the illustrated example of the grill, an additional burner tube 605 is shown. In the examples disclosed herein, the additional burner tube 605 is used for grilling food. Because the additional burner tube is not used during the normal cooking process, but is used during the cooking process when the user is more likely to leave the lid of the grill open and use the burner tube 605 simultaneously with at least one of the other burner tubes, no spark electrode and flame sensor are used in conjunction with the additional burner tube 605. However, in some examples, a flame sensor, spark electrode, and ceramic harness may be used in conjunction with the additional burner tube 605.

[0065] Figure 7 705 is a block diagram of an example flame ignition and sensing system 710 . The example flame ignition and sensing system 710 receives power from a power source 705 . Figure 7 The example flame ignition and sensing system 710 includes an igniter 720 , a spark electrode 725 , a flame sensing circuit 730 , and a flame sensor 735 .

[0066] Figure 7 The example power supply 705 of the illustrated example is implemented by a battery. However, any other type of power supply may be used in addition or alternatively. For example, a DC power supply (e.g., receiving AC power from a power mains circuit) may be used to power the flame ignition and sensing system 710.

[0067] Figure 7 The example igniter 720 of the illustrated example receives an input from the power supply 705 and outputs a high voltage between two output terminals. In the examples disclosed herein, at least one of the output terminals is connected to the spark electrode 725 and causes the spark electrode 725 to emit a spark. In some examples, the igniter 720 is selectively enabled via, for example, an input pin and / or a switch. In some examples, the igniter 720 is referred to as an igniter circuit. In some examples, the igniter 720 implements a device for ignition.

[0068] Figure 7 The example spark electrode 725 of the illustrated example corresponds to Figure 2A The spark electrodes 217, 227, 237 of the embodiment of the present invention are provided. The example spark electrode 725 is implemented using a conductive electrode used as a spark plug to generate a spark. In the examples disclosed herein, the spark electrode 725 is placed directly in the path of the fuel discharged from the corresponding burner tube. The spark electrode 725 generates a spark (e.g., typically at a rate of two to four sparks per second) that causes ignition of the fuel discharged from the corresponding burner tube. Although in the examples disclosed herein, the spark electrode is used to generate the spark, any other type of fuel ignition system may be used in addition or alternatively.

[0069] Figure 7 The example flame sensing circuit 730 of the illustrated example includes a flame signal accessor 750, a filter 755, a comparator 760, an indicator 765, and a communicator 770. The example flame sensing circuit 730 interfaces with the flame sensor 735 to detect the presence of a flame and provide an indication of the presence of a flame.

[0070] Figure 7 The example flame sensor 735 of the illustrated example senses the flame emanating from the burner tube. In the example disclosed herein, the flame sensor 735 uses The flame sensor 735 may be implemented using a rod. However, the flame sensor 735 may be implemented using any other metal and / or conductive material, including, for example, stainless steel, mixed metal oxides, etc. However, any other sensor may be used in addition or alternatively. In some examples, the example flame sensor 735 is implemented using a rod having two or more ninety degree bends. The ninety degree bends enable a portion of the flame sensor rod to be positioned physically proximate to the burner tube(s) (e.g., proximate to the expected location of the flame), and also enable the mounting point of the flame sensor to be away from the expected location of the flame (e.g., such as Figure 2D The housing shown is attached to the grill, such as Figure 3This approach enables detection of high heat (e.g., flame) while moving the flame sensor's mounting point away from the expected location of the flame, thereby extending the flame sensor's life expectancy. However, the flame sensor 735 stem may be bent and / or oriented in any other configuration.

[0071] Figure 7 The example flame signal accessor 750 of the illustrated example is an input device that measures the voltage across the flame sensor 735 and the chassis of the grill (and / or across multiple flame sensors 735). In some examples, the flame signal accessor 750 is implemented using an analog to digital (A2D) converter to enable the voltage to be represented in a digital format. In some examples, the flame signal accessor 750 includes one or more amplifiers to amplify the sensed voltage and enable a more accurate comparison of the sensed voltage to a threshold voltage (e.g., via comparator 760 below). In the examples disclosed herein, the flame signal accessor 750 implements a device for accessing.

[0072] Figure 7 The example filter 755 of the illustrated example removes noise from the sensed voltage signal. In the examples disclosed herein, the filter 755 is implemented using a low-pass filter that removes high-frequency noise (e.g., noise associated with the igniter and / or spark electrode). The use of a low-pass filter additionally has the benefit of filtering the effect of wind on the sensed voltage. However, any other type of filter may be used in addition or alternatively. In some examples, the filter 755 is implemented using analog electronics such as an RLC circuit. In some examples, multiple filters may be used, for example, to enable faster identification of flames, but the loss of the flame signal (e.g., a falling edge) has a time delay that mitigates the effect of wind on the detection of flames. In the examples disclosed herein, the filter 755 implements a device for filtering.

[0073] Figure 7The example comparator 760 of the illustrated example compares the filtered signal output by the filter 755 with a threshold value to determine whether a flame is sensed. In the examples disclosed herein, the threshold value is a voltage indicating whether a flame is sensed by a flame sensor. In the examples disclosed herein, the comparator 760 is an analog comparator. However, in some examples, the comparator 760 can be implemented using a digital logic circuit. In addition, in some examples, the comparator can be implemented using one or more programmable processors, one or more programmable controllers, one or more graphics processing units (GPUs), one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more programmable logic devices (PLDs), and / or one or more field programmable logic devices (FPLDs). In this way, the comparator 760 can be implemented using machine-readable instructions so that a hardware logic circuit (e.g., a microcontroller) performs a comparison. In addition, in some examples, the additional components of the example flame sensing circuit 730 can be implemented using a logic circuit that implements the example comparator 760. In the examples disclosed herein, the comparator 760 implements a device for comparison.

[0074] Figure 7 The example indicator 765 of the illustrated example is implemented using a light emitting diode (LED) that illuminates based on the output of the comparator 760. That is, when the filtered signal output by the filter 755 meets or exceeds the threshold, the indicator 765 is enabled. Conversely, when the filtered signal output by the filter does not meet or exceed the threshold, the indicator 765 is disabled. In addition, although Figure 7 The indicator 765 of the illustrated example of is implemented using an LED, but any other past, present and / or future device may be used additionally or alternatively to indicate the presence of a flame. In the examples disclosed herein, the indicator 765 implements a device for indicating.

[0075] Figure 7 The example communicator 770 of the illustrated example is implemented using an output pin to indicate to the central controller whether a flame is sensed. Providing an indication of the presence of a flame to the central controller enables the central controller to provide additional indications and / or perform additional actions based on the presence of a flame. For example, the central controller may attempt to re-ignite a flame if the flame is extinguished (but still desired). In some examples, the flame signal may be transmitted to the central controller by the example communicator 770 using binary logic levels (e.g., transistor-transistor logic (TTL) voltage levels). However, any other past, present, and / or future method for transmitting a value to a controller, such as a serial bus, an inter-integrated circuit (I 2 C) bus, etc. In the examples disclosed herein, the communicator 770 implements means for communicating.

[0076] In some examples, indicator 765 or communicator 770 may be omitted. In examples where indicator 765 is omitted, a visual indication of whether a flame is present may be provided by a central controller based on the output of communicator 770. In implementations without a central controller, communicator 770 may be omitted.

[0077] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A block diagram of an example configuration 800 of a flame ignition and sensing system having an isolated igniter 720. Figure 8 In the illustrated example of , the spark electrode 725 is electrically isolated from the chassis 810. The flame sensing voltage across the flame sensor 735 and the chassis 810 is measured.

[0078] exist Figure 8 In the illustrated example of , a first terminal (e.g., positive terminal) of the power supply 705 is connected to a first terminal (e.g., positive terminal) of the igniter 720 and a first terminal (e.g., positive terminal) of the flame sensing circuit 730. A second terminal (e.g., negative terminal) of the power supply 705 is connected to a second terminal (e.g., negative terminal) of the igniter 720, a second terminal (e.g., negative terminal) of the flame sensing circuit 730, and the chassis 810. A third terminal of the igniter 720 represents a high voltage positive terminal, which is connected to a first terminal of the spark electrode 725. A fourth terminal of the igniter 720 represents a high voltage negative terminal, which is connected to a second terminal of the spark electrode 725. A third terminal of the flame sensing circuit 730 is connected to the flame sensor 735. In this manner, sensing performed by the flame sensor 735 is referenced between the flame sensor 735 and the chassis 810, while ignition is referenced between the two terminals of the spark electrode.

[0079] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing the placement of multiple flame sensors relative to the expected position of flame 905. Because gas grills (e.g. Figure 1 Gas grills 100 are typically used in outdoor environments, so additional challenges exist compared to traditional flame sensing use cases such as heating, ventilation, and cooling (HVAC) systems. For example, wind 910 tends to move the flame 905 relative to the burner tube from which the flame originates. Fig. 9 In the illustrated example of FIG, wind 910 is shown approaching flame 905 from two directions, but wind 910 can approach flame 905 from any direction. As an example, when wind 910 blows in a left direction, flame 905 tends to follow the left direction. This movement can cause flame 905 to move to a position where one or more flame sensors cannot detect the flame.

[0080] Use as Fig. 9The two flame sensors 218, 219 shown in the illustrated example of , enable more accurate detection of the presence of flame 905 across a larger area and / or volume. Detecting flames across a larger area and / or volume ensures that the presence of flames can be accurately detected even in windy environments.

[0081] In some examples, additional logic is utilized in the example flame signal accessor 750 and / or more generally in the flame sensing circuit 730 (e.g., where multiple flame sensors are utilized) to, for example, detect whether at least one of the connected flame sensors 218, 219 indicates the presence of a flame. For example, the flame sensing circuit 730 may include one or more logic devices (e.g., OR gates) to enable detection of the presence of a flame when at least one of the flame sensors 218, 219 outputs a value indicative of the presence of a flame. However, any other method of processing input data from multiple flame sensors may additionally or alternatively be used, for example, the values ​​accessed by the flame signal accessor 750 may be averaged, the maximum of the accessed values ​​may be selected, etc.

[0082] Fig.10 is a diagram showing alternative placement of multiple flame sensors relative to the intended location of flame 905. Fig.10 In the illustrated example of , three flame sensors 218 , 219 , 1020 are shown. Fig.10 The third flame sensor 1020 of the illustrated example is positioned at a position above the first flame sensor 218 and / or the second flame sensor 219. That is, the third flame sensor 1020 is positioned farther from the burner tube than the first flame sensor 218 and / or the second flame sensor 219. Using this arrangement enables the detection of flame size. For example, when the third flame sensor 1020 indicates the presence of a flame, in contrast to when the third flame sensor 1020 does not indicate the presence of a flame, it can be determined that a larger flame is emitted from the burner tube. This information may be useful in the case of detecting a larger flame at a "high heat" burner (e.g., a burner for grilling food).

[0083] Although in Fig.10In the illustrated example of , three discrete flame sensors 218, 219, 1020 are shown, but in some examples, a single flame sensor module including multiple flame sensing elements (e.g., flame rods, electrodes, etc.) may be utilized. This approach enables electrical connection to each of the flame sensors 218, 219, 1020 to be achieved via a single terminal (e.g., a multi-pin terminal), and enables the flame sensors 218, 219, 1020 to be connected to the flame sensing circuit 730 using a multi-conductor wire. This has the additional benefit of simplifying the manufacture and / or assembly of the barbecue grill 100, which in some examples can be performed by the end user. In addition, the use of a flame sensor module having multiple flame sensing elements ensures the relative position of the flame sensing elements (e.g., flame rods, electrodes, etc.) relative to each other. The use of flame sensing modules having predetermined relative positions to each other enables the flame size to be accurately determined.

[0084] Fig.11A yes Figure 7 A block diagram of an example configuration 1100A of a flame ignition and sensing system using a single flame rod and an electrically grounded switch. Fig.11A In the illustrated example of , the flame sensor 735 additionally functions as a spark electrode. In the example disclosed herein, the first switch 1110 switches the electrical connection to the chassis 810 between the igniter 320 and the flame sensing circuit 330. The second switch 1120 switches the electrical connection between the flame sensing circuit 330 and the flame sensor 335. Fig.11A In the illustrated example of , the first switch 1110 and the second switch 1120 are controlled by a controller 1150 .

[0085] 11 , a first terminal (e.g., a positive terminal) of the power supply 705 is connected to a first terminal (e.g., a positive terminal) of the igniter 720 and a first terminal (e.g., a positive terminal) of the flame sensing circuit 730. A second terminal (e.g., a negative terminal) of the power supply 705 is connected to the chassis 810. The chassis 810 is connected to a common terminal of the first switch 1110.

[0086] The third terminal of the igniter 720 represents a high voltage positive output terminal, which is connected to the flame sensor 735. The fourth terminal of the igniter 720 represents a high voltage negative terminal, which is connected to the chassis 810. The third terminal (e.g., signal terminal) of the flame sensing circuit 730 is connected to the flame sensor 735.

[0087] The normally open terminal of the first switch 1110 is connected to the second terminal (eg, the negative terminal) of the igniter 720 . The normally closed terminal of the first switch 1110 is connected to the negative terminal of the flame sensing circuit 730 .

[0088] The second switch 1120 includes a common terminal connected to the signal terminal of the flame sensing circuit 730. The second switch 1120 includes a normally closed terminal connected to the flame sensor 735. In this manner, the second switch 1120 enables the signal terminal of the flame sensing circuit to be isolated from the flame sensor 735 while the flame sensor 735 is used for ignition.

[0089] In the examples disclosed herein, the first switch 1110 and the second switch 1120 are both implemented using electromechanical relays. However, any other past, present, and / or future methods of switching electrical connections may be used in addition or alternatively, including, for example, solid-state relays, transistors, physical switches, valve switches, knob switches, etc. In some examples, the first switch 1110 and the second switch 1120 are implemented using different technologies.

[0090] Fig.11A The example controller 1150 of the illustrated example controls the first switch 1110 and the second switch 1120 to cause electrical isolation of the flame sensing circuit 730 during ignition. In this way, the high voltage output by the igniter 720 is less likely to cause electrical damage to the flame sensing circuit 730. In the examples disclosed herein, the controller 1150 switches the first switch 1110 and the second switch 1120 substantially simultaneously. However, in some examples, additional relays may be used. Furthermore, in some examples, additional switches may be used in addition or alternatively to, for example, enable a delay between a first time when the igniter 720 is disabled and a second time when the flame sensing circuit 730 is enabled. In the examples disclosed herein, the example controller 1150 operates in response to an ignition signal received via, for example, the igniter button 107. In the examples disclosed herein, the controller 1150 is implemented by a logic circuit. However, the example controller 1150 may be implemented in any manner suitable for controlling switches, such as a microprocessor. In some examples, the controller 1150 is implemented by a central controller, such as described below in conjunction with Fig.15 The central controller 1410 is described. In such an example, the central controller 1410 can control a plurality of flame sensing and / or ignition circuits associated with the various burners of the gas grill 100. In the examples disclosed herein, the example controller 1150 implements means for controlling.

[0091] Fig. 11B yes Figure 7 A block diagram of an example alternative configuration 1100B of a flame ignition and sensing system using a single flame rod and an electrically grounded switch. Fig. 11BIn the illustrated example of , the flame sensor 735 is separate from the spark electrode 725. Although separate, it is advantageous to continue to electrically isolate the flame sensing circuit 730 from the igniter 720 when the igniter is used to cause the spark electrode 725 to ignite fuel discharged from the burner.

[0092] Fig.12 It is shown Fig.11A 1200 includes a power supply 705, a chassis 810, a first switch 1110, a second switch 1120, a flame sensor 735, a first device 1230, a second device 1240, and a flame signal terminal 1250. In some examples, the first device 1210 represents the flame sensor 730, and the second device 1220 represents the igniter 720. However, any other device may be used in addition or alternatively.

[0093] exist Fig.12 In the illustrated example of , the first switch 1110 is shown in a first position, wherein the first device 1210 is electrically connected to the chassis 810 (thereby enabling the first device 1230). During this configuration, the second device 1220 is not electrically connected to the chassis 810 and is therefore not enabled. When the second device 1220 is in a second position, the second device 1220 (e.g., the igniter 720) is electrically connected to the chassis 810 (thereby enabling the second device 1220). During this configuration, the first device 1210 is not electrically connected to the chassis 810 and is therefore not enabled. Using this switch arrangement is beneficial because it ensures that the igniter 720 (e.g., the second device 1220) is not enabled when the flame sensing circuit 730 (e.g., the first device 1210) performs flame sensing, because the high voltage output of the igniter 720 may potentially damage the flame sensing circuit 730.

[0094] exist Fig.12 In the illustrated example of , the second switch 1120 is shown in a first position in which the flame sensor 735 is electrically connected to the flame sensing terminal 1250. When the second switch 1120 is in the first position, the flame sensor 735 can be used to detect the presence of a flame. In contrast, when the second switch 1120 is in the second position, the flame sensor 735 is not connected to the flame sensing terminal 1250 and is thus unable to detect the presence of a flame (e.g., when the igniter 720 is enabled and generates electrical noise and / or a high output voltage). This has the additional benefit of ensuring that the high voltage output by the igniter 720 (e.g., the second device 1220) does not inadvertently damage the flame sensing terminal 1250 and / or more generally the first device 1210.

[0095] Fig.13 is constructed using isolated flame rods Figure 7A block diagram of an example configuration of a flame ignition and sensing system. Fig.13 In the illustrated example of , an isolated (eg, dual) flame rod uses two flame rods that are electrically isolated from the chassis 810 and / or the spark electrode 725. In this manner, electrical noise caused by the spark electrode 725 is avoided.

[0096] exist Fig.13 In the illustrated example of FIG. 8 , a first terminal (e.g., a positive terminal) of the power supply 705 is connected to a first terminal (e.g., a positive terminal) of the igniter 720 and a first terminal (e.g., a positive terminal) of the flame sensing circuit 730. A second terminal (e.g., a negative terminal) of the power supply 705 is connected to a second terminal (e.g., a negative terminal) of the igniter 720, a second terminal (e.g., a negative terminal) of the flame sensing circuit 730, and a first terminal of the dual flame sensor 735. A third terminal of the igniter 720 represents a high voltage positive terminal, which is connected to the spark electrode 725. A fourth terminal of the igniter 720 represents a high voltage negative terminal, which is connected to the chassis 810. A third terminal of the flame sensing circuit 730 is connected to a second terminal of the flame sensor 735. In this way, the sensing performed by the flame sensor 735 is referenced between the signal terminal of the flame sensing circuit and the negative terminal of the flame sensing circuit 730. That is, the flame sensor 735 is electrically isolated from the chassis 810.

[0097] Fig.14 is a block diagram of an example system 1400 including three flame sensing circuits 1420 , 1440 , 1460 and a central controller 1410 . Fig.14 The example system 1400 includes a power supply 705. A first terminal (e.g., a positive terminal) of the power supply 305 is connected to a positive power terminal of the first flame sensing circuit 1420 and a positive terminal of the second flame sensing circuit 1440. A second terminal (e.g., a negative terminal) of the power supply 305 is connected to a negative power terminal of the first flame sensing circuit 1420 and a negative power terminal of the second flame sensing circuit 1440.

[0098] exist Fig.14 In the illustrated example of , the flame sensing circuits 1420, 1440, 1460 include corresponding daisy chain headers 1426, 1446, 1466. In the examples disclosed herein, the daisy chain header enables power from the power supply to be shared between different flame sensing circuits. In this way, by connecting all flame sensing module power rails in parallel (daisy chain), the layout can be simplified. This allows the flame sensing module to be mounted to the front control panel before assembly.

[0099] exist Fig.14In the illustrated example of , first flame sensing circuit 1420 includes a signal terminal connected to first flame rod 1422, second flame sensing circuit 1440 includes a signal terminal connected to second flame rod 1442, and third flame sensing circuit 1460 includes a signal terminal connected to third flame rod 1462. Each of flame rods 1422, 1442, 1462 is positioned relative to a corresponding burner.

[0100] exist Fig.14 In the illustrated example of the first flame sensing circuit 1420, the first indicator port 1421 connected to the first indicator 1424, the second flame sensing circuit 1440 includes the second indicator port 1441 connected to the second indicator 1444, and the third flame sensing circuit 1460 includes the third indicator port 1461 connected to the third indicator 1464. In the examples disclosed herein, the indicator ports 1421, 1441, 1461 are implemented using light emitting diodes LEDs, and the indicators 1424, 1444, 1464 are implemented using light pipes that direct the light emitted from the indicator ports to a user-visible position on the grill. However, in some examples, the indicator ports 1421, 1441, 1461 can be implemented using electrical connections, and the indicators 1424, 1444, 1464 can be implemented by light emitting diodes and / or any other past, present, and / or future indicators that can indicate the status output by the corresponding flame sensing circuits 1420, 1440, 1460. That is, in some examples, indicators 1424, 1444, 1464 may be implemented without light pipes. In some examples, indicators 1424, 1444, 1464 may be implemented as LED arrays. Such LED arrays may be implemented in any manner, including, for example, LED rings. In such examples, the LED array may include a plurality of individually addressable LEDs, thereby allowing output of multiple types of information. For example, if no flame is sensed, but the valve is open, the LEDs of the corresponding LED array may be set to a first color (e.g., red), and if a flame is sensed, the LEDs of the corresponding LED array may be individually controlled to, for example, use a second color (e.g., green) to indicate the state of the knob. In addition, in some examples, the indicator port and / or indicator may provide an indication of signal strength (e.g., a variable amount of flame detected).

[0101] exist Fig.14In the illustrated example of, the flame sensing circuits 1420, 1440, 1460 each include a corresponding flame state terminal. (One or more) flame state terminals are implemented using open drain connections. The optional open drain connection allows an external controller (e.g., controller 1410) to understand the state of flame detection by the flame sensing module. That is, an additional controller can be used to process the flame sensing module state. Each of the flame state terminals is connected to an input on the controller 1410. Each of the flame state terminals indicates to the controller 1410 whether the flame has been detected by the corresponding flame sensing circuit 1420, 1440, 1460. This enables the controller 1410 to, for example, present an indication indicating whether the flame has been sensed (e.g., separate from the indicator 1424, 1444, 1464). In some examples, the controller 1410 may communicate with a remote entity to indicate whether the flame is sensed. For example, such communication enables a message to be sent to a user when a lit flame becomes extinguished (e.g., blown out by wind). Such a message may be implemented as a short message service (SMS) message, a push notification (eg, to a mobile device), etc. In some examples, the controller 1410 may interact with a valve of a grill to attempt to reignite the flame after it has gone out and is intended to be ignited.

[0102] Fig.15 yes Fig.14 A block diagram of an example implementation of a controller 1410 is shown. Fig.15 The example controller 1410 of the illustrated example includes a flame sensing circuit interface 1510 , an input receiver 1515 , a valve interface 1530 , an ignition interface 1535 , a processing circuit 1550 , a communicator 1560 , and a display 1570 .

[0103] Fig.15 The example flame sensing circuit interface 1510 of the illustrated example is implemented using one or more input ports connected to each corresponding flame sensing circuit. The example flame sensing circuit interface 1510 collects flame sensing information from the corresponding flame sensing circuit 730. In some examples, the flame sensing information is provided as binary logic levels. However, any other past, present, and / or future method of communicating with another circuit (e.g., a flame sensing circuit) may additionally or alternatively be used, such as a serial bus, an inter-integrated circuit (I 2 C) Bus, etc.

[0104] Fig.15 The example input receiver 1515 of the illustrated example receives user input identifying the desired state of the burner (e.g., ignited, unignited, or any value therebetween). In some examples, additional information may be received, such as the current and / or desired temperature of the cooking zone(s), the desired position of the valve, etc.

[0105] Fig.15 The example valve interface 1530 of the illustrated example enables electronic control of the valve (e.g., valves 214, 224, 234) by the controller. In this way, the controller 1410 can control the valve to move to an open position, a closed position, or a position intermediate the open position and the closed position.

[0106] Fig.15 The example ignition interface 1535 of the illustrated example enables the controller 1410 to control whether one or more of the igniters are enabled.

[0107] Fig.15 The example processing circuit 1550 of the illustrated example compares the current state of the flame to the desired state of the flame to determine whether to take any action. Such actions may include, for example, enabling an igniter to attempt ignition (and / or re-ignition), opening a valve, closing a valve, sending a notification, displaying an indication, etc.

[0108] Fig.15 The example communicator 1560 of the illustrated example is implemented using a wireless communicator, such as a Bluetooth interface, a WiFi interface, a radio frequency (RF) interface (e.g., a radio frequency interface operating at 1400 megahertz (MHZ)), etc. The example communicator 1560 enables the controller 1410 to communicate with an external device and / or entity (e.g., a cloud server, a mobile device, etc.) to provide status updates and / or alerts (e.g., the status of the flame). In some examples, the communicator 1560 enables the controller 1410 to transmit analog values ​​and / or serial data to other controllers (e.g., auxiliary controllers, flame sensing circuits, valve control circuits, etc.) inside and / or outside the gas grill.

[0109] Fig.15 The example display 1570 of the illustrated example is implemented using a display device such as, for example, a light emitting diode (LED), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a liquid crystal display, a cathode ray tube display (CRT), a touch screen, a tactile output device, a printer, a speaker, etc. to provide an output to a user indicating the presence of, for example, a flame.

[0110] Although in Figure 7 An example method of implementing the flame sensing circuit 730 is shown in FIG. Figure 7 One or more of the elements, processes and / or devices shown in the drawings may be combined, separated, rearranged, omitted, eliminated and / or implemented in any other manner. In addition, Figure 7The example flame signal accessor 750, the example filter 755, the example comparator 760, the example indicator 765, the example communicator 770, and / or more generally the example flame sensing circuit 730 may be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, and / or any combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware. Thus, for example, Figure 7 Any of the example flame signal accessor 750, the example filter 755, the example comparator 760, the example indicator 765, the example communicator 770, and / or more generally the example flame sensing circuit 730 may be implemented by one or more analog or digital circuits, logic circuits, (one or more) programmable processors, (one or more) programmable controllers, (one or more) graphics processing units (GPUs), (one or more) digital signal processors (DSPs), (one or more) application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), (one or more) programmable logic devices (PLDs), and / or (one or more) field programmable logic devices (FPLDs). When reading any device or system claims of this patent covering pure software and / or firmware implementations, Figure 7 At least one of the example flame signal accessor 750, the example filter 755, the example comparator 760, the example indicator 765, the example communicator 770, and / or more generally the example flame sensing circuit 730 is expressly defined herein as comprising a non-transitory computer-readable storage device or storage disk, such as a memory, a digital versatile disk (DVD), a compact disk (CD), a Blu-ray disk, etc., including software and / or firmware. Furthermore, in addition to Figure 7 In addition to or in lieu of those shown in Figure 7 The example flame sensing circuit 730 may also include one or more elements, processes and / or devices, and / or may include more than one of any or all of the elements, processes and devices shown. As used herein, the phrase "communication" (including variations thereof) encompasses direct communication and / or indirect communication through one or more intermediate components, and does not require direct physical (e.g., wired) communication and / or continuous communication, but rather includes selective communication in the form of periodic intervals, scheduled intervals, non-periodic intervals and / or one-time events.

[0111] In addition, although Fig.15 The implementation is shown in Fig.15 The example controller 1410 of the example embodiment, but Fig.15 One or more of the elements, processes and / or devices shown in the drawings may be combined, separated, rearranged, omitted, eliminated and / or implemented in any other manner. In addition, Fig.15The example flame sensing circuit interface 1510, the example input receiver 1515, the example valve interface 1530, the example ignition interface 1535, the example processing circuit 1550, the example communicator 1560, the example display 1570, and / or more generally the example controller 1410 may be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, and / or any combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware. Thus, for example, Fig.15 Any of the example flame sensing circuit interface 1510, the example input receiver 1515, the example valve interface 1530, the example ignition interface 1535, the example processing circuit 1550, the example communicator 1560, the example display 1570, and / or more generally the example controller 1410 may be implemented by one or more analog or digital circuits, logic circuits, (one or more) programmable processors, (one or more) programmable controllers, (one or more) graphics processing units (GPUs), (one or more) digital signal processors (DSPs), (one or more) application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), (one or more) programmable logic devices (PLDs), and / or (one or more) field programmable logic devices (FPLDs). When reading any device or system claims of this patent covering pure software and / or firmware implementations, Fig.15 At least one of the example flame sensing circuit interface 1510, the example input receiver 1515, the example valve interface 1530, the example ignition interface 1535, the example processing circuit 1550, the example communicator 1560, the example display 1570, and / or more generally the example controller 1410 is expressly defined herein as comprising a non-transitory computer-readable storage device or storage disk, such as a memory, a digital versatile disk (DVD), a compact disk (CD), a Blu-ray disk, etc., including software and / or firmware. Furthermore, in addition to Fig.15 In addition to or in lieu of those shown in Fig.15 The example controller 1410 may also include one or more elements, processes and / or devices, and / or may include more than one of any or all of the elements, processes and devices shown. As used herein, the phrase "communication" (including variations thereof) encompasses direct communication and / or indirect communication through one or more intermediate components, and does not require direct physical (e.g., wired) communication and / or continuous communication, but also includes selective communication in the form of periodic intervals, scheduled intervals, non-periodic intervals and / or one-time events.

[0112] Fig.16 The diagram shows a method for implementing Figure 7 A flowchart of example hardware logic, machine readable instructions, hardware implemented state machines, and / or any combination thereof of the flame sensing circuit 730 is provided. Fig.17 shows a representation for implementing Fig.151410 of the controller 1410, a flowchart of example hardware logic, machine readable instructions, a hardware implemented state machine, and / or any combination thereof. The machine readable instructions may be for use by a computer processor (e.g., in conjunction with Fig.18 The example processor platform 1800 discussed herein may be implemented in software stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium (e.g., a CD-ROM, floppy disk, hard drive, DVD, Blu-ray disk, or memory associated with the processor 1812), but the entire program and / or portions thereof may alternatively be executed by a device other than the processor 1812 and / or implemented in firmware or dedicated hardware. In addition, although reference is made to Fig.16 and / or Fig.17 The flowchart shown in describes an example program, but many other methods of implementing the example flame sensing circuit 730 and / or the example controller 1410 may be used instead. For example, the order of execution of the blocks may be changed, and / or some of the blocks described may be changed, eliminated, or combined. Additionally or alternatively, any or all of the blocks may be implemented by one or more hardware circuits (e.g., discrete and / or integrated analog and / or digital circuits, FPGAs, ASICs, comparators, operational amplifiers (op-amps), logic circuits, etc.) configured to perform corresponding operations without executing software or firmware.

[0113] The machine-readable instructions described herein may be stored in one or more of a compressed format, an encrypted format, a segmented format, a compiled format, an executable format, a packaged format, and the like. The machine-readable instructions described herein may be stored as data (e.g., portions of instructions, codes, code representations, and the like) that may be used to create, make, and / or generate machine-executable instructions. For example, the machine-readable instructions may be segmented and stored on one or more storage devices and / or computing devices (e.g., servers). The machine-readable instructions may require one or more of installation, modification, adaptation, updating, combination, supplementation, construction, decryption, decompression, unpacking, distribution, redistribution, compilation, and the like so that they may be directly read, interpreted, and / or executed by a computer device and / or other machine. For example, the machine-readable instructions may be stored in a plurality of portions that are individually compressed, encrypted, and stored on separate computing devices, wherein the portions, when decrypted, decompressed, and combined, form a set of executable instructions that implement a program such as described herein.

[0114] In another example, the machine-readable instructions may be stored in a state that is readable by a computer, but require the addition of a library (e.g., a dynamic link library (DLL)), a software development kit (SDK), an application programming interface (API), etc., in order to execute the instructions on a particular computing device or other device. In another example, the machine-readable instructions and / or corresponding programs may need to be configured (e.g., stored settings, data inputs, recorded network addresses, etc.) before the machine-readable instructions and / or corresponding programs can be executed in whole or in part. Therefore, the disclosed machine-readable instructions and / or corresponding programs are intended to cover such machine-readable instructions and / or programs regardless of the specific format or state of the machine-readable instructions and / or programs when stored or otherwise at rest or transmitted.

[0115] The machine-readable instructions described herein may be represented by any past, present, or future instruction language, scripting language, programming language, etc. For example, the machine-readable instructions may be represented using any of the following languages: C, C++, Java, C#, Perl, Python, JavaScript, Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Structured Query Language (SQL), Swift, etc.

[0116] As mentioned above, Fig.16 and / or Fig.17 The example processes of can be implemented using executable instructions (e.g., computer and / or machine readable instructions) stored on a non-transitory computer and / or machine readable medium (such as a hard drive, flash memory, read-only memory, compact disk, digital versatile disk, cache, random access memory, and / or any other storage device or storage disk) in which information is stored for any duration (e.g., for an extended period of time, permanently, for a short period of time, temporarily buffered and / or cached information). As used herein, the term "non-transitory computer readable medium" is expressly defined to include any type of computer readable storage device and / or storage disk, and does not include propagating signals and does not include transmission media.

[0117] "Include" and "comprising" (and all forms and tenses thereof) are used herein as open-ended terms. Thus, whenever a claim uses any form of "include" or "comprising" (e.g., comprises, includes, comprising, including, having, etc.) as a preamble or within any kind of claim recitation, it should be understood that additional elements, terms, etc. may be present without exceeding the scope of the corresponding claim or recitation. As used herein, when the phrase "at least" is used as a transitional term, such as in the preamble of a claim, it is open-ended in the same manner as the terms "include" and "comprising" are open-ended. The term "and / or" when used in the form of, for example, A, B, and / or C, refers to any combination or subset of A, B, C, such as (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) A and B, (5) A and C, (6) B and C, and (7) A and B and C. As used herein in the context of describing structures, components, items, objects, and / or things, the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to refer to implementations that include any of (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein in the context of describing structures, components, items, objects, and / or things, the phrase "at least one of A or B" is intended to refer to implementations that include any of (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) at least one A and at least one B. As used herein in the context of describing the execution or performance of processes, instructions, actions, activities, and / or steps, the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to refer to implementations that include any of (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein in the context of describing the execution or performance of a process, instruction, action, activity, and / or step, the phrase "at least one of A or B" is intended to refer to an implementation that includes (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) any one of at least one A and at least one B.

[0118] As used herein, singular references (e.g., "a," "an," "first," "second," etc.) do not exclude a plurality. As used herein, the term "a" or "an" entity refers to one or more of the entity. The terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more," and "at least one" are used interchangeably herein. In addition, although listed separately, multiple devices, elements, or method actions may be implemented by, for example, a single unit or processor. In addition, although individual features may be included in different examples or claims, these features may be combined, and inclusion in different examples or claims does not mean that the combination of features is not feasible and / or disadvantageous.

[0119] Fig.16 is a flow diagram representative of example machine readable instructions 1600 that, when executed, cause at least one machine to indicate the presence of a flame. Fig.16 The example process 1600 of the illustrated example begins when the example flame signal accessor 750 accesses a flame sensing input from the flame sensor 735. (Block 1610). In some examples, accessing of the flame sensing input involves applying a voltage across the flame sensor 735 and a ground connection (e.g., a chassis of the grill, a burner tube, another flame sensor, a spark electrode, etc.), and measuring the amount of current used (and / or alternatively, the resistance across the flame sensor and the ground connection). In some examples, accessing of the flame sensing input from the flame sensor is performed periodically (e.g., every second, every hundred milliseconds, etc.). Performing flame sensing periodically reduces power usage, thereby extending the battery life of the grill.

[0120] In some alternative examples, access to the flame sensing input involves measuring a voltage across the flame sensor and a ground connection. In such examples, the measured voltage represents ions from the flame. Therefore, this flame sensing is performed using a much smaller value (e.g., a millivolt measurement) than when a voltage is applied across the flame sensor and the ground connection. Since a voltage does not need to be applied across the flame sensor and the ground connection, power requirements are reduced. However, in some examples, such a smaller value measurement may not be as stable as a measurement obtained by applying a voltage across the flame sensor and the ground connection.

[0121] Filter 755 filters the flame sensing input to produce a filtered flame sensing input. (Block 1620). In the examples disclosed herein, the filtering applied by filter 755 removes noise (e.g., high frequency noise) from the flame sensing input. However, any other past, present, and / or future types of filtering may additionally or alternatively be applied to the flame sensing input. For example, a bandpass filter may additionally or alternatively be applied to (in addition to filtering out high frequency noise) also filter out low frequency noise associated with wind-induced transient losses in the flame sensing signal.

[0122] The comparator 760 compares the value of the filtered flame sensing input to the flame sensing threshold. (Block 1630). If the comparator 760 determines that the filtered flame sensing input does not meet the threshold (e.g., block 1630 returns a "no" result), the example indicator 765 is disabled. (Block 1640). In some examples, because the indicator 765 is an external indicator, disabling the indicator 765 enables the user to observe the status of the flame without having to open the lid of the barbecue grill. The example communicator 770 then disables the flame signal sent to the controller. (Block 1650). In some examples, the flame signal can be implemented using binary logic levels (e.g., transistor-transistor logic (TTL) voltage levels). However, any other past, present, and / or future method of transmitting a value to the controller, such as a serial bus, a controller area network (CAN) bus, an internal integrated circuit (I 2 C) bus, etc. Control then returns to block 1610 where the example flame sensing circuit 730 continues to monitor for the presence of a flame and provide an indication of the presence of a flame.

[0123] If the comparator 760 determines that the filtered flame sensing input meets the threshold (e.g., block 1630 returns a "yes" result), the example indicator 765 is enabled. (Block 1660). Enabling the indicator 765 enables the user to observe the status of the flame without having to open the lid of the grill. The example communicator 770 then enables the flame signal to be transmitted to the controller. (Block 1670). As described above in conjunction with block 1650, the flame signal can be implemented using any past, present, and / or future method of transmitting a value to the controller.

[0124] In some examples, the example comparator 760 may additionally compare the flame sensing input to other thresholds. For example, if no resistance is detected between the flame sensor and the grounding location (e.g., the burner tube), this may indicate that there is an erroneous configuration that causes a short circuit between the flame sensor and the grounding location. This may occur if, for example, the flame sensor becomes bent and / or moves in a manner that it contacts the burner tube. In this case, a third execution path that, for example, flashes an indicator (e.g., indicates an error) and / or causes an error message to be sent to the controller may be utilized. This allows the controller to take precautions, such as to stop the flow of fuel (e.g., when the presence of a flame may not be accurately sensed), notify a user, etc.

[0125] Control then returns to block 1610 where the example flame sensing circuit 730 continues to monitor for the presence of a flame and provide an indication of the presence of a flame.

[0126] Fig.17is a flowchart representing example machine readable instructions 1700 that, when executed, cause Fig.15 The controller 1410 monitors the state of the flame. In the example disclosed herein, the state of the flame is reported to the controller 1410 by the flame sensing circuit 730. Fig.17 The example process 1700 of the illustrated example begins when the flame sensing circuit interface 1510 collects flame sensing information from the corresponding flame sensing circuit 730. (Block 1705). In some examples, the flame sensing circuit interface 1510 may collect flame sensing information from multiple flame sensing circuits (e.g., Fig.14 ). The example input receiver 1515 identifies the desired state of each of the burners corresponding to the flame sensing information received from the flame sensing circuit. (Block 1710). The example processing circuit 1550 determines whether the current state of the burner (e.g., ignited or unignited) matches the desired state of the burner. (Block 1715). In some examples, additional information may be considered, such as the current and / or desired temperature(s) of the cooking zone. If the current state of the burner matches the desired state of the burner (e.g., block 1715 returns a "yes" result), control returns to block 1705, where the example controller 1410 continues to monitor the current and desired flame states.

[0127] If the current state of the burner does not match the desired state of the burner (e.g., box 1715 returns a "no" result), the processing circuit 1750 determines whether a flame is sensed. (box 1720). If a flame has been sensed (e.g., box 1720 returns a "yes" result), this means that a flame has been sensed when a flame is not expected. The example valve interface 1530 interfaces with a valve (e.g., valve 214, 224, 234) to close the valve. (box 1725). Since the valve is closed, the flame should be extinguished (because no fuel is discharged from the burner tube). However, in some examples, the controller may additionally return to monitor whether the flame is properly extinguished, and in the event that the flame is not properly extinguished, an indication of an undesirable flame may be provided and / or a notification indicating a fault (e.g., a valve fault) may be transmitted via the communicator 1560. In some examples, the valve may interact with a main control valve, which may be attached to a fuel supply line in an attempt to further extinguish the flame.

[0128] Returning to box 1720, if no flame is sensed (e.g., box 1720 returns a "no" result), this means that the desired state of the burner has changed to request a flame, or the previous flame has become extinguished. The example ignition interface 1535 interfaces with the appropriate igniter 720 to trigger ignition of the flame. (Box 1730). The example valve interface 1530 interfaces with the corresponding valve (e.g., valve 214, 224, 234) to open the valve. (Box 1735). As a result, with the igniter triggered and the valve opened, fuel is expected to be supplied for ignition by the igniter. During ignition, in some examples, the flame sensing circuit 730 can be disabled and / or isolated (e.g., as described above in conjunction with Fig.11A , Fig. 11B and / or Fig.12 Disabling and / or isolating the flame sensing circuit 730 reduces the likelihood that the flame sensing circuit 730 will be damaged by sparks generated by the spark electrode.

[0129] The example processing circuit 1550 then determines whether a flame has been sensed. (Block 1740). If a flame is sensed (e.g., block 1740 returns a "yes" result), the example ignition interface 1535 disables the igniter. (Block 1745). If a flame is not sensed (e.g., block 1740 returns a "no" result), the example processing circuit 1550 determines whether to retry ignition. (Block 1750). In some examples, re-ignition may be attempted up to a threshold number of times (e.g., five attempts). However, in some other examples, re-ignition may be attempted within a threshold amount of time (e.g., thirty seconds).

[0130] If the example processing circuit 1550 determines that ignition should be retried (e.g., block 1750 returns a "yes" result), control proceeds to block 1730 where ignition is attempted again. If the example processing circuit 1550 determines that ignition should not be retried (e.g., block 1750 returns a "no" result), control proceeds to block 1755 where the communicator 1560 and / or display 1570 provides an indication of ignition failure. (block 1755). The example valve interface 1530 then closes the valve. (block 1760). The example ignition interface 1535 then disables the igniter. (block 1745). Control then returns to block 1705 where the controller 1410 continues to monitor current and desired flame conditions.

[0131] Fig.18 is constructed to execute Fig.17 Instructions to achieve Fig.151410. The processor platform 1800 may be, for example, a server, a personal computer, a workstation, a self-learning machine (e.g., a neural network), a mobile device (e.g., a cellular phone, a smart phone, an iPad, etc.). TM tablet computer), embedded device, system on chip (SoC), or any other type of computing device.

[0132] The processor platform 1800 of the illustrated example includes a processor 1812. The processor 1812 of the illustrated example is hardware. For example, the processor 1812 can be implemented by one or more integrated circuits, logic circuits, microprocessors, GPUs, DSPs, or controllers from any desired series or manufacturer. The hardware processor can be a semiconductor-based (e.g., silicon-based) device. In this example, the processor implements the example processing circuit 1550.

[0133] The processor 1812 of the illustrated example includes a local memory 1813 (e.g., a cache). The processor 1812 of the illustrated example communicates with a main memory including a volatile memory 1814 and a non-volatile memory 1816 via a bus 1818. The volatile memory 1814 may be comprised of a synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), Dynamic Random Access Memory The non-volatile memory 1816 may be implemented by flash memory and / or any other desired type of storage device. Access to the main memory 1814, 1816 is controlled by a memory controller.

[0134] The processor platform 1800 of the illustrated example also includes an interface circuit 1820. The interface circuit 1820 may be implemented by any type of interface standard, such as an Ethernet interface, a universal serial bus (USB), a Bluetooth interface, a near field communication (NFC) interface, a controller area network (CAN) bus, and / or a PCI Express interface.

[0135] In the example shown, one or more input devices 1822 are connected to the interface circuit 1820. The input device(s) 1822 allow a user to input data and / or commands into the processor 1812. The input device(s) may be implemented by, for example, an audio sensor, a microphone, a camera (still or video), a keyboard, buttons, a mouse, a touch screen, a track pad, a track ball, an ISO pointer (isopoint), and / or a voice recognition system. The example input device 1822 may implement the example flame sensing circuit interface 1510 and / or the example input receiver 1515.

[0136] One or more output devices 1824 are also connected to the interface circuit 1820 of the illustrated example. The output device 1824 can be implemented, for example, by a display device (e.g., a light emitting diode (LED), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a liquid crystal display (LCD), a cathode ray tube display (CRT), an in-place switching (IPS) display, a touch screen, etc.), a tactile output device, a printer, and / or a speaker. Therefore, the interface circuit 1820 of the illustrated example typically includes a graphics driver card, a graphics driver chip, and / or a graphics driver processor. The example output device 1824 can implement the example valve interface 1530, the example ignition interface 1535, and / or the example display 1570.

[0137] The interface circuit 1820 of the illustrated example also includes a communication device, such as a transmitter, a receiver, a transceiver, a modem, a residential gateway, a wireless access point, and / or a network interface to facilitate exchanging data with an external machine (e.g., any kind of computing device) via a network 1826. Communication can be via, for example, an Ethernet connection, a digital subscriber line (DSL) connection, a telephone line connection, a coaxial cable system, a satellite system, a field line wireless system, a cellular telephone system, etc. The example interface circuit 1820 can implement the example communicator 1560.

[0138] The processor platform 1800 of the illustrated example also includes one or more mass storage devices 1828 for storing software and / or data. Examples of such mass storage devices 1828 include floppy disk drives, hard disk drives, optical disk drives, Blu-ray disk drives, redundant array of independent disks (RAID) systems, and digital versatile disk (DVD) drives.

[0139] Fig.18 The machine-executable instructions 1832 may be stored in local memory 1832, in mass storage device 1828, in volatile memory 1814, in non-volatile memory 1816, and / or on a removable, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium such as a CD or DVD.

[0140] Fig.19 shows a method for converting Fig.18 1832 of the example software distribution platform 1905 for distributing software to third parties. The example software distribution platform 1905 can be implemented by any computer server, data facility, cloud service, etc. that can store software and transfer software to other computing devices. The third party can be a customer of the entity that owns and / or operates the software distribution platform. For example, the entity that owns and / or operates the software distribution platform can be such as Fig.18The third party may be a consumer, user, retailer, OEM, etc. who purchases and / or licenses the software for use and / or resale and / or sub-licensing. In the example shown, the software distribution platform 1905 includes one or more servers and one or more storage devices. The storage device stores computer readable instructions 1832, which may correspond to Fig.16 Example computer readable instructions 1600 and / or Fig.17 The example computer readable instructions 1700 of the example software distribution platform 1905 are described above. One or more servers of the example software distribution platform 1905 communicate with a network 1910, which may correspond to one or more of the Internet and / or any of the example networks 1826 described above. In some examples, the one or more servers send the software to the requesting party as part of a commercial transaction in response to the request. Payment for the delivery, sale, and / or license of the software may be processed by one or more servers of the software distribution platform and / or via a third-party payment entity. The server enables a purchaser and / or licensor to download computer readable instructions 1832 from the software distribution platform 1905. For example, the computer readable instructions 1832 may be downloaded from the software distribution platform 1905. Fig.18 The example computer readable instructions 1832 of the software are downloaded to the example processor platform 1800, which executes the computer readable instructions 1832 to implement the central controller 1410. In some examples, one or more servers of the software distribution platform 1905 periodically send software (e.g., Fig.18 The example computer readable instructions 1832 of the central controller 1410 provide, transmit and / or force updates to ensure that improvements, patches, updates, etc. are distributed and applied to the software at the end-user device. In some examples, the instructions downloaded to the central controller 1410 include instructions provided to the flame sensing circuit in the form of, for example, a firmware update. Such a firmware update can enable, for example, more effective analysis of the flame signal to detect the presence of a flame.

[0141] From the above, it will be appreciated that example methods, apparatuses, and articles of manufacture that are capable of detecting the presence of a flame in a barbecue grill have been disclosed. The disclosed methods, apparatuses, and articles of manufacture increase the efficiency of using the barbecue grill because the user does not need to open the lid of the barbecue grill to determine whether a flame is present. Thus, the disclosed methods, apparatuses, and articles of manufacture relate to one or more improvements in the functionality of a barbecue grill.

[0142] Although certain example methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture are disclosed herein, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture that fully fall within the scope of the claims of this patent.

[0143] Example methods, devices, systems, and articles of manufacture are disclosed herein to indicate the presence of a flame. Additional examples and combinations thereof include the following:

[0144] Example 1 includes a gas grill, the gas grill comprising: a burner tube, the burner tube having a hole for discharging fuel for combustion; an ignition element, the ignition element for causing ignition of the fuel discharged from the hole of the burner tube; a flame sensor, the flame sensor for detecting the presence of a flame associated with the combustion of the fuel discharged from the hole of the burner tube; and a flame sensing circuit, the flame sensing circuit including a flame signal accessor for accessing a flame sensing signal from the flame sensor and a terminal for outputting an indication of the presence of the flame, the indication of the presence of the flame being output regardless of the open state or closed state of the cover of the grill.

[0145] Example 2 includes the gas grill of Example 1, wherein the ignition element is implemented using a spark electrode.

[0146] Example 3 includes the gas grill of Example 1, wherein the ignition element is implemented using a hot surface igniter.

[0147] Example 4 includes the gas grill of Example 1, wherein the flame sensing circuit further comprises a filter for applying filtering to the flame sensing signal accessed from the flame sensor to generate a filtered flame sensing signal.

[0148] Example 5 includes the gas grill of Example 4, wherein the filter is implemented using a high pass filter to filter out high frequency electrical noise.

[0149] Example 6 includes the gas grill of Example 4, further comprising a comparator for comparing the filtered flame sense signal to a threshold value to generate an indication of the presence of the flame.

[0150] Example 7 includes the gas grill of Example 1, wherein to access the flame sensing signal, the flame signal accessor measures a voltage across the flame sensor and ground.

[0151] Example 8 includes the gas grill of Example 1, wherein to access the flame sensing signal, the flame signal accessor sources a voltage across the flame sensor and a ground location and measures an amount of current passed from the flame sensor to the ground location.

[0152] Example 9 includes the gas grill of Example 8, wherein the burner tube is the ground location.

[0153] Example 10 includes the gas grill of Example 8, wherein the flame sensor is a first flame sensor and the ground location is a second flame sensor that is separate from a chassis of the gas grill.

[0154] Example 11 includes the gas grill of Example 1, wherein the flame sensing circuit further comprises a visual indicator implemented using at least one light emitting diode.

[0155] Example 12 includes the gas grill of Example 1, wherein the flame sensing circuit further comprises a communicator for outputting an indication of the presence of the flame to a central controller.

[0156] Example 13 includes the gas grill of Example 12, wherein the central controller is used to control a position of a valve that supplies fuel to the burner tubes.

[0157] Example 14 includes the gas grill of Example 1, wherein the igniter and the flame sensor are grounded through the burner tube.

[0158] Example 15 includes the gas grill of Example 1, further comprising an igniter circuit for providing a voltage to the ignition element to cause ignition of the fuel.

[0159] Example 16 includes the gas grill of Example 15, wherein the gas grill further comprises a switch for selectively enabling one of the igniter circuit or the flame sensing circuit.

[0160] Example 17 includes the gas grill of Example 16, wherein the switch is a first switch, and the gas grill further comprises a second switch for isolating the flame sensor from the flame sensing circuit when the first switch selectively enables the igniter circuit.

[0161] Example 18 includes the gas grill of Example 13, wherein the ignition element is the flame sensor.

[0162] Example 19 includes the gas grill of Example 1, further comprising a ceramic harness for positioning the ignition element and the flame sensor proximate the aperture of the burner tube.

[0163] Example 20 includes the gas grill of Example 19, wherein the ceramic harness includes a first channel for receiving the ignition element and a second channel for receiving the flame sensor, the first channel having a first axial length that is shorter than a second axial length of the second channel.

[0164] Example 21 includes the gas grill of Example 20, wherein the flame sensor is implemented by a rod having a portion bent relative to the second channel of the ceramic harness, the bend of the rod enabling at least a portion of the flame sensor to be positioned directly above the hole of the burner tube.

[0165] Example 22 includes a flame sensing circuit for a gas grill, the flame sensing circuit comprising: a flame signal accessor, the flame signal accessor being used to access a flame sensing signal from a flame sensor; a comparator, the comparator being used to compare the flame sensing signal with a threshold value to produce an indication of the presence of the flame; and an indicator, the indicator being used to output an indication of the presence of the flame.

[0166] Example 23 includes the flame sensing circuit of Example 22, wherein the comparator is implemented using a microcontroller.

[0167] Example 24 includes the flame sensing circuit of Example 22, further comprising a filter for filtering the flame sensing signal accessed from the flame sensor to generate a filtered flame sensing signal, wherein the comparator compares the filtered flame sensing signal with a threshold to generate an indication of the presence of the flame.

[0168] Example 25 includes the flame sensing circuit of Example 24, wherein the filter is implemented using a high pass filter.

[0169] Example 26 includes the flame sensing circuit of Example 24, wherein the filter is implemented using a low pass filter to filter out high frequency noise associated with wind that affects the ability to detect the presence of the flame.

[0170] Example 27 includes the flame sensing circuit of Example 22, further comprising the flame sensor, wherein the flame sensor is implemented using a conductive rod.

[0171] Example 28 includes the flame sensing circuit of Example 22, further comprising a communicator for outputting an indication of the presence of the flame to a central controller.

[0172] Example 29 includes at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium, the at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed, cause at least one processor to at least access a flame sensing signal from a flame sensor, compare the flame sensing signal to a threshold to generate an indication of the presence of the flame, and output the indication of the presence of the flame.

[0173] Example 30 includes the at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium of Example 29, wherein the instructions, when executed, cause the at least one processor to filter the flame sensing signal to generate a filtered flame sensing signal, wherein the comparison of the flame sensing signal with the threshold is performed based on the filtered flame sensing signal.

[0174] Example 31 includes the at least one non-transitory computer readable medium of Example 29, wherein the instructions, when executed, cause the at least one processor to at least disable an igniter circuit when the flame sensing signal is accessed.

[0175] Example 32 includes the at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium of Example 31, wherein the instructions, when executed, cause the at least one processor to electrically isolate the flame sensor from the igniter circuit when the igniter circuit is enabled.

[0176] Example 33 includes a method of indicating the presence of a flame, the method comprising: accessing a flame sensing signal from a flame sensor; comparing a filtered flame sensing signal to a threshold to produce an indication of the presence of a flame; and outputting the indication of the presence of a flame.

[0177] Example 34 includes the method of Example 33, further comprising filtering the flame sensing signal to produce a filtered flame sensing signal, wherein the comparison of the flame sensing signal to the threshold is performed based on the filtered flame sensing signal.

[0178] Example 35 includes the method of Example 33, further comprising disabling an igniter circuit when the flame sense signal is accessed.

[0179] Example 36 includes the method of Example 35, further comprising electrically isolating the flame sensor from the igniter circuit when the igniter circuit is enabled.

[0180] Example 37 includes an apparatus for a gas grill, the apparatus comprising means for accessing a flame sensing signal from a flame sensor, means for comparing the flame sensing signal to a threshold value to produce an indication of the presence of a flame, and means for indicating to output the indication of the presence of a flame.

[0181] Example 38 includes the apparatus of Example 37, further comprising means for filtering the flame sensing signal accessed from the flame sensor to produce a filtered flame sensing signal, wherein the means for comparing compares the filtered flame sensing signal to the threshold to produce an indication of the presence of the flame.

[0182] Note that this patent claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 959,647, filed on January 10, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0183] The following claims are incorporated into this Detailed Description by reference, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A gas barbecue, comprising: a burner tube having an aperture for discharging fuel for combustion; an ignition element for causing ignition of fuel discharged from the aperture of the burner tube; a flame sensor for detecting the presence of a flame associated with combustion of fuel discharged from the aperture of the burner tube; as well as A flame sensing circuit, the flame sensing circuit comprising: a flame signal accessor for accessing a flame sensing signal from the flame sensor, the flame signal accessor electrically isolating the flame sensor from the ignition element when the ignition element is being used to ignite the fuel; as well as A terminal is provided for outputting an indication of the presence of the flame, wherein the indication of the presence of the flame is output regardless of whether the cover of the barbecue grill is in an open state or a closed state.

2. The gas grill according to claim 1, wherein: The ignition element is realized by using a spark electrode.

3. The gas grill according to claim 1, wherein: The ignition element is implemented using a hot surface igniter.

4. The gas grill according to claim 1, wherein: To access the flame sensing signal, the flame signal accessor measures a voltage across the flame sensor and ground.

5. The gas grill according to claim 1, wherein: To access the flame sensing signal, the flame signal accessor sources a voltage across the flame sensor and ground and measures the amount of current passed from the flame sensor to the ground.

6. The gas barbecue grill according to claim 5, wherein: The flame sensor is a first flame sensor and the ground location is a second flame sensor that is separate from a chassis of the gas grill.

7. The gas grill according to claim 1, wherein: The flame sensing circuit also includes a visual indicator implemented by at least one light emitting diode.

8. The gas grill according to claim 1, wherein: The flame sensing circuit also includes a communicator for outputting an indication of the presence of the flame to a central controller.

9. The gas grill according to claim 1, wherein: The ignition element and the flame sensor are grounded through the burner tube.

10. The gas grill of claim 1, further comprising an igniter circuit for providing voltage to the ignition element to cause ignition of the fuel.

11. The gas grill of claim 10, further comprising a switch for selectively enabling one of the igniter circuit or the flame sensing circuit.

12. The gas grill of claim 1 further comprising a ceramic harness for positioning said ignition element and said flame sensor proximate said aperture of said burner tube.

13. The gas grill of claim 12, wherein: The ceramic harness includes a first passage for receiving the ignition element and a second passage for receiving the flame sensor, the first passage having a first axial length that is shorter than a second axial length of the second passage.

14. The gas grill of claim 13, wherein: The flame sensor is implemented by a rod having a portion that is bent relative to the second passage of the ceramic harness, the bent portion of the rod enabling at least a portion of the flame sensor to be positioned directly over the hole of the burner tube.

15. A flame sensing circuit for a gas barbecue grill, the flame sensing circuit comprising: a flame signal accessor for accessing a flame sensing signal from a flame sensor, the flame signal accessor being electrically isolated from an igniter circuit when the ignition element is being used to ignite the fuel; a comparator for comparing the flame sensing signal to a threshold value to generate an indication of the presence of the flame; as well as An indicator is provided for outputting an indication of the presence of the flame.

16. The flame sensing circuit according to claim 15, wherein: The comparator is implemented using a microcontroller.

17. The flame sensing circuit according to claim 15, further comprising a filter, the filter being used to filter the flame sensing signal accessed from the flame sensor to generate a filtered flame sensing signal, wherein: The comparator is used to compare the filtered flame sensing signal with the threshold value to generate an indication of the presence of the flame.

18. The flame sensing circuit according to claim 17, wherein: The filter is implemented using a high pass filter.

19. The flame sensing circuit of claim 17, wherein: The filter is implemented using a low pass filter to remove high frequency noise associated with wind that affects the ability to detect the presence of the flame.

20. The flame sensing circuit according to claim 15, further comprising the flame sensor, wherein: The flame sensor is implemented using a conductive rod.

21. The flame sensing circuit of claim 15, further comprising a communicator for outputting an indication of the presence of the flame to a central controller.

22. A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed, cause at least one processor to perform at least the following steps: electrically isolating the flame sensor from the igniter circuit when the igniter circuit is enabled; accessing a flame sensing signal from the flame sensor; comparing the flame sensing signal to a threshold value to generate an indication of the presence of the flame; and An indication of the presence of the flame is output.

23. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 22, wherein: The instructions, when executed, cause the at least one processor to filter the flame sensing signal to generate a filtered flame sensing signal, wherein the comparison of the flame sensing signal to the threshold is performed based on the filtered flame sensing signal.

24. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 22, wherein: The instructions, when executed, cause the at least one processor to disable an igniter circuit when the flame sense signal is accessed.

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