US Patent:
20030066830, Apr 10, 2003
Inventors:
TRoy Reed - Skiatook OK, US
Tim Lunneborg - Wahpeton ND, US
Kevin Loll - Wahpeton ND, US
Paul Dimmer - Wahpeton ND, US
James Thomas - Battle Lake MN, US
Neil Thomas - Brookings SD, US
International Classification:
H05B006/10
Abstract:
An apparatus and method for generating heat, in particular for heating a fluid. The apparatus includes a frame, with at least one permanent magnet fixedly mounted to the frame. An electrically conductive member is disposed proximate the permanent magnets. The magnetic field of the magnets upon the conductive member is made to vary cyclically. Typically either the permanent magnets, the conductive member, or both are movable with respect to one another. Relative motion of the conductive member and the magnets causes the magnetic field experienced by the conductive member to vary, which causes it to become hot. The total heat energy generated in the conductive member may exceed the total energy applied to the apparatus to produce the varying magnetic field. The apparatus may include a fluid path proximate the conductive member. Fluid in the fluid path receives heat from the conductive member. The apparatus may also include a mounting member for mounting the conductive member, a drive mechanism for moving the conductive member, and a fluid driver for driving fluid within the fluid path. The method includes the steps of either an electrically conductive member, a permanent magnet proximate the conductive member, or both so as to heat the conductive member. The method may include the step of passing a fluid through a fluid path proximate the conductive member such that the fluid absorbs heat from the conductive member.