Portable heating system

Abstract

A portable heating system provides on-demand heated liquid in power-limited environments. The system comprises a reservoir holding liquid, a heating element within the reservoir, and a control unit with programmed logic managing operations. A relay controls heating element activation based on control signals, while a temperature sensor monitors liquid temperature and a solenoid valve regulates fluid flow. The control unit features a visual display, temperature adjustment buttons, and LED indicators. A dispensing pipe with integrated controls enables remote operation through a curved gooseneck configuration. The modular design includes optional features such as supplemental heating elements, pressure regulation devices, and corrosion protection. Operating on AC power for heating and 12-28V DC for controls, the system dramatically reduces power consumption compared to conventional continuous-operation water heaters, making it ideal for marine vessels, recreational vehicles, and off-grid applications.

Description

SCRIBA-1001PCTPORTABLE HEATING SYSTEMFIELD

[0001] This disclosure relates to portable heating systems for liquid heating applications where power supply is limited.BACKGROUND

[0002] Conventional on-demand hot water heaters provide high-temperature water for beverages and cooking applications requiring near-boiling water. These units operate on alternating current (AC) power and use holding tanks to maintain water at preset high temperatures. While effective with constant power supply, they become impractical in mobile or off-grid situations where people increasingly find themselves today. Without access to power grids, generators, or large-capacity energy storage systems, obtaining near-instant high- temperature potable water becomes challenging.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for a portable hot water heater that addresses these limitations through a compact reservoir system with a heating element that activates only upon request for hot water and dispenses only when specific parameters are met, thereby eliminating continuous power consumption and significantly reducing energy usage.SUMMARY

[0004] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a portable heating system is provided comprising a reservoir configured to hold a liquid, a heating element disposed within the reservoir and configured, when activated, to heat the liquid; and a control unit having circuitry and programmed logic for managing operational functions of the portable heating system. The system includes a relay operatively connected between a power supply and the heating element, with the relay controlling activation of the heating element based on control signals from the control unit. A temperature sensor extends into the reservoir to monitor liquid temperature, and a solenoid valve is operatively connected to an outlet port of the reservoir for regulating fluid flow therethrough.

[0005] In one embodiment, the system further comprises a liquid sensor disposed in the reservoir for detecting presence of liquid, wherein the liquid sensor prevents activation of theSCRIBA-1001PCT heating element when the reservoir is empty. The reservoir may include an inlet port for receiving liquid from an external source and an outlet port for controlled dispensing that minimizes splashing or spillage, with both ports optionally including caps, covers, or sealing mechanisms to prevent leakage or contamination.

[0006] According to another aspect, the control unit includes a visual display for providing real-time indication of liquid temperature within the reservoir, an up button configured to increase a target temperature setpoint, and a down button configured to decrease the target temperature setpoint. The system may further include a first LED indicator light for indicating when the relay or solenoid valve has been activated and a second LED indicator light for indicating when a preset temperature has been reached and is being maintained.

[0007] In a further embodiment, a solenoid button is provided on the control unit for actuating the solenoid valve, wherein the solenoid button is configured to open the solenoid valve when temperature control buttons have not been actuated, thereby permitting cold liquid flow, and to open the solenoid valve only after a predetermined temperature setpoint has been achieved when the heating element has been energized. A temperature display button may be provided to enable users to toggle between Fahrenheit and Celsius temperature readings.

[0008] According to yet another aspect, the system includes a portable liquid dispensing system comprising a dispensing pipe having a curved gooseneck configuration for ergonomic positioning, an integrated control interface disposed on the dispensing pipe that duplicates primary control unit functionality, and a conduit fluidly connecting the dispensing pipe to the reservoir through suitable connection mechanisms. The dispensing pipe assembly enables remote positioning away from the main reservoir for enhanced operational flexibility and safety.

[0009] In one implementation, the system employs a modular design allowing efficient assembly, maintenance, and component replacement while maintaining integrated functionality. Additional features may include a coiled heating cable for supplemental heating capability, a pressure regulation device for maintaining safe operating pressures, and an optional anode for cathodic protection against galvanic corrosion when dissimilar metals are present in the reservoir and associated fittings.

[0010] According to a further aspect, the power supply required comprises an alternating current (AC) source for energizing the heating element and a direct current (DC) source for powering other electrical components, with the DC source operating within a voltage range of 3SCRIBA-1001PCT to 48 volts. The system may require a power inverter capable of supplying at least 2000 watts when standard 100 - 240 volt AC power is unavailable.

[0011] In another aspect, a method of operating a portable heating system is provided, comprising initiating relay activation upon actuation of a temperature control button to supply power to a heating element positioned within a liquid-containing reservoir, monitoring liquid temperature through a temperature sensor extending into the reservoir, automatically de-energizing the heating element upon reaching a predetermined liquid temperature, cycling the heating element on and off to maintain the predetermined temperature setpoint, and regulating fluid flow through a solenoid valve based on temperature conditions and electromagnetic actuation.

[0012] The disclosed portable heating system addresses critical needs in power-limited environments by providing on-demand, high-temperature potable water while dramatically reducing power consumption compared to conventional continuous-operation water heaters. Unlike existing systems that consume power continuously, this system remains dormant without power consumption until activated, with energized duration controlled by preset programming to ensure zero power usage between heating cycles. Applications include marine vessels, recreational vehicles, and other off-grid or power-restricted settings where obtaining near-instant high- temperature potable water is challengingBRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] In the following description, specific details are given to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details.

[0014] FIG. 1 illustrates a portable heating system, according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 2 illustrates a control unit of the portable heating system, according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 3 illustrates a dispensing pipe connected to the control unit, according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded view of the portable heating system, according to one aspect of the present disclosure.SCRIBA-1001PCTDETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The features, nature, and advantages of the present aspects may become more apparent from the detailed description set forth below when taken in conjunction with the drawings in which like reference characters identify correspondingly throughout.

[0019] While this disclosure emphasizes water heating, the system applies to heating various liquids. Other embodiments may combine the described features differently, include additional features, or exclude certain features altogether.Overview

[0020] This disclosure describes a portable heating system designed to heat liquids such as water in a reservoir when users have limited energy storage or supply, particularly in off-grid situations. The system provides near-instant, on-demand, high-temperature potable water anywhere while dramatically reducing power consumption compared to conventional continuous- operation water heaters. Applications include marine vessels, recreational vehicles, and other off- grid or power-restricted settings where obtaining near-instant high-temperature potable water becomes challenging without access to power grids, generators, or large-capacity energy storage systems.

[0021] Unlike existing on-demand water heaters that consume power continuously, this novel system remains dormant without any power consumption until activated. The energized duration is controlled by preset programming, ensuring zero power usage between heating cycles. This approach addresses critical needs in power-limited environments by delivering on-demand, high- temperature potable water at the point of use while dramatically reducing overall energy consumption.

[0022] The portable heating system comprises a reservoir configured to hold liquid, a heating element disposed within the reservoir, and a control unit having circuitry and programmed logic for managing operational functions. A relay operatively connected between a power supply and the heating element controls activation based on control signals from the control unit, while a temperature sensor extending into the reservoir monitors liquid temperature. A solenoid valve operatively connected to an outlet port regulates fluid flow therethrough based on electromagnetic actuation and predetermined temperature conditions.SCRIBA-1001PCT

[0023] A direct current (DC) power source along with a power inverter capable of supplying at least 2000 watts may be utilized when standard 100 - 240 volt AC power is unavailable. The system employs alternating current (AC) power for energizing the heating element and direct current (DC) power for other electrical components including the control circuitry and display systems.

[0024] The control unit features a visual display providing real-time indication of liquid temperature, user interface controls including up and down buttons for temperature setpoint adjustment, and LED indicator lights for system status indication. A portable liquid dispensing system includes a dispensing pipe having a curved gooseneck configuration (for example) for ergonomic positioning, with an integrated control interface disposed on the dispensing pipe that duplicates primary control unit functionality, enabling temperature monitoring and system control at the point of dispensing.

[0025] The system employs a modular design allowing efficient assembly, maintenance, and component replacement while maintaining integrated functionality. Additional features include optional pressure regulation devices for maintaining safe operating pressures and cathodic protection systems to prevent galvanic corrosion when dissimilar metals are present in the reservoir and associated fittings. The dispensing pipe assembly enables remote positioning away from the main reservoir for enhanced operational flexibility and safety, with fluid-tight coupling mechanisms ensuring leak-free operation.

[0026] FIG. 1 shows a portable heating system 100 according to one embodiment of this disclosure. The system 100 includes an insulated, enclosed reservoir 110 that holds liquid such as water, and a heating element 112 positioned within the reservoir 110 to heat the liquid when activated. A liquid sensor 114 detects the presence of liquid in the reservoir 110, preventing heating element activation when the reservoir 110 is empty. A temperature sensor 116 extends into the reservoir 110 to monitor liquid temperature.

[0027] The reservoir 110 is constructed from durable, leak-proof materials including plastic, metal, or composite materials to secure the stored liquid and prevent external contamination.

[0028] The reservoir 110 features an inlet port 118 for receiving liquid from an external source and an outlet port 120 for controlled dispensing that minimizes splashing or spillage. Both ports may include caps, covers, or sealing mechanisms to prevent leakage or contamination when not in use.SCRIBA-1001PCT

[0029] The heating element 112 may be powered through a relay 122 positioned between a power supply 124 and the heating element 112 to regulate electrical flow. The relay 122 functions as an electrically controlled switch that activates or deactivates the heating element 112 in response to control signals from a control unit 200. By monitoring operational parameters such as temperature readings or timing sequences, the control unit 200 directs the relay 122 to open or close the electrical circuit as needed. This relay-controlled configuration provides several operational advantages: enhanced energy efficiency through elimination of unnecessary power consumption, improved safety through precise heating control, and extended component lifespan by reducing electrical stress on the heating element 112.

[0030] Additionally, a solenoid valve 126 may be operatively connected to the outlet port 120 to regulate fluid flow therethrough. The solenoid valve 126 operates by electromagnetic actuation, wherein electrical current flowing through an internal solenoid coil creates a magnetic field that displaces a metallic plunger within the valve assembly. In a normally-closed configuration, the plunger initially obstructs the fluid pathway, maintaining the valve in a sealed state. Upon solenoid activation, the generated magnetic force displaces the plunger away from the valve seat, thereby creating an open fluid pathway from the inlet to the outlet port 120. When in the open position, fluid flows through the outlet port 120 at a rate determined by valve design specifications, supply pressure, and outlet port dimensions.

[0031] According to one aspect, the primary power supply comprises an alternating current (AC) source that provides the electrical current necessary to energize the heating element 112, and may energize valve operations. Electrical power for all other system components may be supplied by direct current (DC) sources.

[0032] When dissimilar metals are employed in the construction of the reservoir 110 and its associated fittings, the combination of electrical heating and liquid contact may result in galvanic corrosion or electrolytic deterioration of metallic components. To mitigate such corrosion effects, an anode 128 may optionally be incorporated with the reservoir 110 to provide cathodic protection and prevent damage or degradation of system components. The use of the anode 128 is optional and may be implemented based on the specific material composition and operating conditions of the system.

[0033] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the portable heating system 100 is shown in schematic form depicting the interconnection of system components. The insulation surrounding reservoir 110 provides thermal efficiency by retaining heat and reducing energy consumption during heatingSCRIBA-1001PCT cycles. The electrical connections between control unit 200, relay 122, and heating element 1 12 are shown alongside the fluid pathway connections that enable liquid flow from inlet port 118 through the reservoir 110 to outlet port 120 via solenoid valve 126. This schematic representation demonstrates the integrated nature of the electrical control systems and fluid handling components that comprise the complete portable heating system 100.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 2, a front view of the control unit 200 is illustrated. The control unit 200 incorporates internal circuitry and programmed logic for managing operational functions of the portable heating system 100. A visual display 202, which may comprise a liquid crystal display (LCD) or similar display technology, is positioned on the front face of the control unit 200 to provide real-time indication of the liquid temperature within the reservoir 110. Temperature adjustment may be accomplished through user interface controls including an up button 204 configured to increase the target temperature setpoint and a down button 206 configured to decrease the target temperature setpoint of the liquid within the system.

[0035] Both the up and down buttons 204, 206 are operatively connected to the relay 122, wherein actuation of either button initiates relay activation to supply power to the heating element 112 positioned within the reservoir 110 as previously described. The heating element 112 remains energized until the predetermined liquid temperature is achieved, whereupon the system automatically de-energizes the heating element 112 and subsequently cycles on and off as necessary to maintain the established temperature setpoint. An initial actuation of either the up or down button 204, 206 activates the system for a predetermined duration once the liquid temperature setpoint has been satisfied. Subsequent actuation of the up or down temperature buttons 204, 206 adjusts the temperature setpoint accordingly.

[0036] A first LED indicator light 208 may be positioned on the control unit 200 to provide visual indication when the relay 122 and / or solenoid valve 126 has been activated. A second LED indicator light 210 may be disposed on the control unit 200 to illuminate upon reaching the predetermined temperature setpoint and remain illuminated while the setpoint temperature is maintained within the system.

[0037] A solenoid button 212 may be located on the control unit 200 to actuate the solenoid valve 126 at the outlet port 120, thereby controlling liquid discharge from the reservoir 110 as previously described. The solenoid button 212 operates an AC or DC-powered, normally-closed, in-line solenoid valve 126 suitable for potable water applications. The solenoid button 212 is configured to open the solenoid valve 126 under specific operational conditions: first, when theSCRIBA-1001PCT temperature control buttons (up and down buttons 204, 206) have not been actuated, thereby permitting cold liquid flow; and second, when the temperature control buttons 204, 206 have been activated and the heating element 112 energized, the solenoid button 212 will only open the solenoid valve 126 after the predetermined temperature setpoint has been achieved. In the latter scenario, heated liquid will flow only while the predetermined temperature is maintained within a specified tolerance range through the cyclical operation of the heating element 112.

[0038] Additionally, a temperature display button 214 may be provided to enable users to toggle between Fahrenheit and Celsius temperature readings on the visual display 202. Upon actuation, the temperature display button 214 switches the temperature display format on the control unit 200 between the two measurement units, thereby allowing users to view temperature information in their preferred scale. This dual-scale display functionality enhances system versatility by accommodating varying user preferences and regional measurement standards.

[0039] According to one aspect, the control unit 200 circuitry may be powered by a low voltage direct current (DC) power source.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 200 features an intuitive front-panel layout with the visual display 202 prominently positioned for easy temperature reading, flanked by the up and down adjustment buttons 204, 206 for convenient temperature control. The LED indicator lights 208, 210 are strategically positioned to provide clear visual status feedback to the user, while the solenoid button 212 and temperature display button 214 are readily accessible for operational control and unit preferences.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 3, a dispensing pipe 300 operatively connected to the control unit 200 is illustrated. The dispensing pipe 300 is fluidly connected to both the control unit 200 and the reservoir 110 via a conduit 302, which may comprise tubing, hose, or pipe, thereby establishing a fluid pathway for dispensing liquid from the reservoir 110. In one embodiment, the conduit 302 may be constructed of copper material, which provides advantageous properties including durability, corrosion resistance, and compatibility with potable water applications. The dispensing pipe 300 may feature a curved or gooseneck configuration that provides ergonomic positioning and flexible placement options for liquid dispensing operations. This curved design allows for convenient positioning of the dispensing outlet relative to containers or receptacles while maintaining a comfortable user interface angle.

[0042] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the dispensing pipe 300 incorporates an integrated control interface that duplicates the functionality of the primary control unit 200. This integrated interfaceSCRIBA-1001PCT includes a visual display showing temperature readings, up and down adjustment buttons, and indicator lights, thereby providing remote control capability for the heating system 100. The integration of control elements into the dispensing pipe 300 enhances user convenience by allowing temperature monitoring and system control at the point of dispensing, eliminating the need to access the primary control unit 200 during liquid dispensing operations.

[0043] According to a further aspect, the system may include remote-control functionality through a computer interface or mobile application. The mobile application may be configured to control all the same functions as the primary control unit 200, including temperature setpoint adjustment, heating element activation, solenoid valve operation, and system status monitoring. The mobile application may further include additional features such as the ability to schedule system functions in advance, enabling users to pre-program heating cycles and dispensing operations based on predetermined timing parameters. The application may also provide remote notifications regarding system function status and operational parameters, alerting users when target temperatures are achieved, when heating cycles are complete, or when system maintenance may be required. This remote-control capability enhances user convenience and operational efficiency by allowing system management from a distance, particularly beneficial in marine, recreational vehicle, and off-grid applications where users may be away from the immediate vicinity of the control unit 200.

[0044] The conduit 302 connects to the dispensing pipe 300 through a suitable connection mechanism, which may include threaded fittings, compression connections, or other fluid-tight coupling methods to ensure leak-free operation. The dispensing pipe 300 includes a controlled outlet configured to provide precise liquid flow when activated through the solenoid valve 126 operation.

[0045] The portable nature of the dispensing pipe 300 assembly allows for remote positioning away from the main reservoir 110, thereby enhancing operational flexibility and safety by enabling liquid dispensing at locations distanced from the heating elements and primary system components.

[0046] Turning to FIG. 4, an exploded view of the portable heating system 100 is illustrated, showing the individual components and their relative assembly positions. The central reservoir 110 is depicted with various connection points for the peripheral components that comprise the complete heating system 100.SCRIBA-1001PCT

[0047] The exploded view shows a fluid supply hose 134. Various connection fittings are illustrated, including inlet and outlet port assemblies 118 and 136, respectively that facilitate fluid connections to the reservoir 110. A temperature sensor or probe assembly 116 is shown for monitoring liquid temperature within the reservoir 110. A fluid sensor 114 is shown for monitoring the presence of fluid within the reservoir 110.

[0048] The dispensing components include the dispensing pipe assembly 120 and flexible conduit sections 140 that provide fluid pathways between system components. The flow control element such as valve assembly 126 is positioned to regulate fluid movement through the system.

[0049] Pressure regulation or safety devices are illustrated as 130, 132 and 138 which may comprise a fluid expansion tank 130, a pressure relief valve 132 and / or a pressure sensor 138, or similar safety component(s) to maintain safe operating pressures within the system. The control unit assemblies 122 and alternating current (AC) power supply cord 124 are shown with their respective connection hardware.

[0050] This modular design approach allows for efficient assembly, maintenance, and replacement of individual components while maintaining the integrated functionality of the portable heating system 100.

[0051] “Comprise” and variations, such as “comprising” and “comprises,” are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers, or steps. “A”, “an,” and “the” and similar referents used herein are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural unless their usage in context indicates otherwise. The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation or embodiment described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or implementations. Likewise, “embodiments” does not require that all embodiments include the discussed feature, advantage or mode of operation.

[0052] “Aspects” do not require that all aspects of the disclosure include the discussed features, advantages, or modes of operation. “Coupled” is used herein to means the direct or indirect coupling between two objects. For example, if object A physically touches or couples to object B, and object B touches or couples to object C, then objects A and C may still be considered coupled to one another, even if they do not directly physically touch each other.

[0053] One or more of the components and functions illustrated in the FIGS, may be rearranged and / or combined into a single component or embodied in several components without departingSCRIBA-1001PCT from the invention. Additional elements or components may also be added without departing from the invention. Additionally, the features described herein may be implemented in software, hardware, as a business method, and / or combination thereof.

[0054] While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad invention, and that this invention is not be limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other modifications may occur to those ordinarily skilled in the art.

Claims

SCRIBA-1001PCTCLAIMS1. A portable heating system, comprising: a reservoir configured to hold a liquid; a heating element disposed within the reservoir and configured to heat the liquid when activated; a control unit having circuitry and programmed logic for managing operational functions of the portable heating system; a relay operatively connected between a power supply and the heating element, the relay controlling activation of the heating element based on control signals from the control unit; a temperature sensor extending into the reservoir to monitor liquid temperature; and a solenoid valve operatively connected to an outlet port of the reservoir for regulating fluid flow therethrough.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the liquid is water.

3. The system of claim 1, further comprising a liquid sensor disposed in the reservoir for detecting presence of the liquid in the reservoir, wherein the liquid sensor prevents activation of the heating element when the reservoir is empty.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the system comprises a modular design allowing for efficient assembly, maintenance, and replacement of individual components while maintaining integrated functionality.

5. The system of claim 1, further comprising: an inlet port on the reservoir for receiving the liquid from an external source; and an outlet port on the reservoir for controlled dispensing that minimizes splashing or spillage.

6. The system of claim 1, further comprising a pressure regulation device configured to maintain safe operating pressures within the system.SCRIBA-1001PCT7. The system of claim 7, wherein the pressure regulation device comprises a pressure relief valve.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the control unit includes: a visual display for providing real-time indication of liquid temperature within the reservoir; an up button configured to increase a target temperature setpoint; and a down button configured to decrease the target temperature setpoint.

9. The system of claim 9, wherein the visual display comprises a liquid crystal display (LCD) or similar display technology.

10. The system of claim 9, further comprising: a first LED indicator light for indicating when the relay or solenoid valve has been activated; and a second LED indicator light for indicating when a preset temperature has been reached and is being maintained.

11. A portable liquid dispensing system, comprising: a dispensing pipe having a curved configuration providing ergonomic positioning for liquid dispensing operations; an integrated control interface disposed on the dispensing pipe, the integrated control interface including a temperature display, adjustment buttons, and indicator lights that duplicate functionality of a primary control unit; a conduit fluidly connecting the dispensing pipe to a liquid reservoir; and a controlled outlet configured to provide precise liquid flow when activated.

12. The system of claim 12, wherein the curved configuration comprises a gooseneck design.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the conduit comprises metal material for durability and corrosion resistance in potable water applications.SCRIBA-1001PCT14. The system of claim 12, wherein the connection mechanism includes threaded fittings, compression connections, or other fluid-tight coupling methods to ensure leak-free operation.

15. The system of claim 12, wherein the portable nature of the dispensing pipe assembly allows for remote positioning away from a main reservoir, thereby enhancing operational flexibility and safety.

16. The system of claim 12, further comprising an anode operatively connected to the reservoir to provide cathodic protection against galvanic corrosion when dissimilar metals are present in the reservoir and associated fittings, wherein use of the anode is optional based on specific material composition and operating conditions.

17. A method of operating a portable heating system, comprising: initiating relay activation upon actuation of a temperature control button to supply power to a heating element positioned within a liquid-containing reservoir; monitoring liquid temperature through a temperature sensor extending into the reservoir; automatically de-energizing the heating element upon reaching a predetermined liquid temperature; cycling the heating element on and off to maintain the predetermined temperature setpoint; and regulating fluid flow through a solenoid valve based on temperature conditions and electromagnetic actuation.

18. The method of claim 18, further comprising displacing a metallic plunger within the solenoid valve assembly through electromagnetic actuation to create an open fluid pathway from an inlet to an outlet port.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising providing visual indication of system status through LED indicators and enabling temperature monitoring and system control at a point of dispensing through an integrated control interface.SCRIBA-1001PCT20. The method of claim 18, further comprising providing visual indication of system status through LED indicators and enabling temperature monitoring and system control at a point of dispensing through an integrated control interface.

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