CPC Definition - Subclass H05B

Last Updated Version: 2024.01
ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
Definition statement

This place covers:

Electric heating

  • Heat sources utilising ohmic resistance, electric, magnetic or electromagnetic fields, electric discharge, or combinations thereof;
  • Light sources specially adapted for heating, e.g. infrared sources as used in light ovens.

This subclass covers not only the electric elements and circuitry designs but also the electric aspects of their arrangement, where these concern cases of general application.

Electric light sources

This subclass is residual as to electric light sources and covers in particular:

  • Electric arc lamps, electroluminescent light sources and light sources using a combination of different types of light generation;

Circuit arrangements

  • Circuit arrangements for operating electric light sources.
  • Primary circuits, circuit arrangements and circuit elements for operating electric light sources.
Relationships with other classification places

Electric Heating

While this subclass covers electric aspects of heating, like electric elements, circuitry designs and their electric arrangement in heating apparatus or devices, the physical disposition of such electric elements as well as any other mechanical aspect of electric heating is covered by the subclasses of F24 and F27. Heating elements used in specific applications are classified in subclasses for those applications.

Electric light sources

This subclass is residual as to electric light sources: see section "References out of residual references" for a list of places covering electric light sources per se. Differently from this subclass, subclasses of class F21 cover the mechanical arrangement of parts including electrical elements, i.e. their geometrical or physical position in relation to one another, such as the structures or constructional features of lighting devices incorporating a light source (be it electric or otherwise).

References
Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Domestic cooking

A47J

Heating or cooling appliances for medical or therapeutic treatment

A61F 7/00

Radiation therapy using microwaves

A61N 5/02

Forging by heat

B21J, B21K

Joining of preformed parts by heating of plastics or substances in a plastic state

B29C 65/02

Metallurgy

C21, C22, C23

Domestic heating and stoves

F24

Furnaces and ovens

F27

Thermally-actuated switches

H01H 37/00

References out of a residual place

Examples of places in relation to which this place is residual:

Electric light sources

Electric discharge tubes

H01J

Electric discharge lamps

H01J 61/00 - H01J 65/00

Circuit elements structurally associated with the lighting element of an electric discharge lamp

H01J 61/56

Electric incandescent lamps

H01K

Semiconductor devices having potential barriers, specially adapted for light emission, e.g. LEDs

H01L 27/15, H01L 33/00

Laser

H01S

Plasma torches

H05H 1/26

Organic solid-state devices specially adapted for light emission, e.g. OLEDs or PLEDs

H10K 59/00, H10K 50/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Electric light sources

Measuring characteristics of light; Colorimetry

G01J

Control of temperature in general

G05D 23/00

Regulating electric characteristics of arcs in general

G05F 1/02

Regulating electric power in general

G05F 1/66

Special rules of classification

In this subclass the use of indexing codes H05B 2203/00H05B 2214/04 is mandatory.

Details of electric heating devices
Definition statement

This place covers:

General automatic switching arrangements specially adapted to heating applications, when no specific class exist for the particular heating application.

Control of heating devices, when no specific class exist for the particular heating application.

Further information:

H05B 1/0202 relates to automatic switching.

H05B 1/0227 relates to automatic control, classified according to the type of application.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Control of induction heating devices

H05B 6/06

Control of microwave heating devices

H05B 6/68

Control of electric discharge heating devices

H05B 7/00

Bakers' ovens; machines or equipment for baking

A21B

Industrial microwave ovens

A23L 5/10

Characteristic features of footwear; parts of footwear

A43B

Heated mirrors

A47G 1/00

Kitchen equipment; coffee mills; spice mills; apparatus for making beverages

A47J

Dentistry

A61C

Methods or apparatus for sterilising materials

A61L

Chemical or physical processes

B01J

Soldering or welding; cutting by applying heat locally

B23K

Shaping or joining of plastics

B29C

Vehicle heating

B60H

Car seats

B60N

Heated mirrors for cars

B60R 1/0602

Heated windshield window (car) / heated rear window (car)

B60S 1/00

Helicopters de-icing

B64C

Airplane wings de-icing

B64D

Containers for storage or transport

B65D

Pop corn heating

B65D 81/3469

Nanotechnology

B82Y

Carbon nanotubes

C01B 32/15

Ceramics

C04B

Adhesives

C09J 4/00

Heat treatment of metals or alloys

C21D

Metal-spraying

C23C 4/00

Heating of sport playgrounds

E01C 13/02

Cleaning open waters, e.g. deicing

E02B 15/00

Roofs de-icing

E04D 13/00

Devices for securing together constructional elements or machine parts

F16B 1/00

Pipes; joints or fittings for pipes; supports for pipes or cables

F16L

Glow plugs

F23Q 7/001

Electrical cooker / glow plug / gas cooker

F24C

Removal of fumes associated to cooking range (or microwave ovens)

F24C 15/2042

Domestic- or space-heating systems e.g. central heating

F24D

Fluid heaters

F24H

Drying solid materials or objects by removing liquid there from

F26B

Electric furnaces

F27B 3/08

Details or accessories of furnaces

F27D

Electrography; electrophotography; magnetography

G03G

Controlling non-electric variables

G05D

Control of temperature in general

G05D 23/00

Controlling electric or magnetic variables

G05F

Resistors; methods of production

H01C 7/00

Electric switches

H01H

Thermally actuated switches

H01H 37/00

Semiconductor devices; methods of production

H01L

Aerials

H01Q

Connectors

H01R

Removing snow from cables

H02G 7/16

Electric power conversion

H02M

Printed circuits

H05K 1/00

Ohmic-resistance heating
Definition statement

This place covers:

Heating by applying a voltage to a material with a certain conductivity, so that an electric current is generated that, according to the resistivity of the material will dissipate energy in form of heat (Joule heating).

Accordingly, the heat can be generated in the same object that needs to be heated. Otherwise, the heat has to be transferred to the object that needs to be heated by a further process of radiation, conduction, or convection.

Further information:

H05B 3/0033- H05B 3/009 deal with heating devices using lamps

H05B 3/06 does not cover connectors (suitable) for heating elements, but covers the particular cases when the heater is structurally combined with the technical means allowing the electrical connection, otherwise only the classification in connectors, i.e. in H01R, applies.

H05B 3/10 deal with heater elements characterised by the composition or nature of the materials or by the arrangement of the conductor.

H05B 3/34 covers car seat heaters.

H05B 3/345 covers any heater to be used in a textile material (even if they are not clothes)

H05B 3/50 covers any car air heater (independently of the structure of the heater).

H05B 3/62- H05B 3/66 deal with heating elements specially adapted for furnaces.

H05B 3/62-H05B 3/82 only cover electrical details, or details about the generation or transmission of heat. For other mechanical details the corresponding F24 or F27 class applies.

H05B 3/68- H05B 3/76 deal with heating arrangements specially adapted for cooking plates or analogous hot-plates

H05B 3/78- H05B 3/82 deal with heating arrangements specially adapted for immersion heating

H05B 3/84 deal with heating arrangements specially adapted for transparent or reflecting areas

Relationships with other classification places

Further information about subgroups:

  • H05B 3/0033 - H05B 3/009 cover heating devices using lamps.
  • H05B 3/06 does not cover connectors (suitable) for heating elements, but covers the particular cases when the heater is structurally combined with the technical means allowing the electrical connection, otherwise only the classification in connectors, i.e. in H01R, applies.
  • H05B 3/10 deal with heater elements characterised by the composition or nature of the materials or by the arrangement of the conductor.
  • H05B 3/34 covers car seat heaters.
  • H05B 3/345 covers any heater to be used in a textile material (even if they are not clothes).
  • H05B 3/50 covers any car air heater (independently of the structure of the heater).
  • H05B 3/62 - H05B 3/66 deal with heating elements specially adapted for furnaces.
  • H05B 3/62 - H05B 3/82 only cover electrical details, or details about the generation or transmission of heat. For other mechanical details, classification is directed to the corresponding groups of classes F24 or F27.
  • H05B 3/68 - H05B 3/76 deal with heating arrangements specially adapted for cooking plates or analogous hot-plates.
  • H05B 3/78 - H05B 3/82 deal with heating arrangements specially adapted for immersion heating.
  • H05B 3/84 deal with heating arrangements specially adapted for transparent or reflecting areas.
References
Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Electric cigarettes

A24F 40/00

Devices for radiation therapy

A61N

Electrothermic treatment of ores

C22B 4/00

Ironing

D06F 61/00

Combustion engines heaters

F02M 31/00

Arrangements of heating elements in furnaces

F27D 11/00

Heat exchangers

F28F 21/00

Apparatus for thermal treatment of semiconductor or solid-state devices or of parts thereof

H01L 21/67

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Aquarium heaters

A01K 63/065

Bakers' ovens; machines or equipment for baking

A21B

Characteristic features of footwear; parts of footwear

A43B

Warming plates

A47F 3/00

Heated mirrors

A47G 1/00

Kitchen equipment; coffee mills; spice mills; apparatus for making beverages

A47J

Dentistry

A61C

Chemical or physical processes

B01J

Soldering or welding; cutting by applying heat locally

B23K

Shaping or joining of plastics

B29C

Layered products comprising glass

B32B 17/00

Thermal printers

B41J 11/00

Vehicle heating

B60H

Car seats

B60N

Heated mirrors (for cars)

B60R 1/0602

Heated windshield window (car) / heated rear window (car)

B60S 1/00

Helicopters de-icing

B64C

Aircraft de-icing

B64D 15/00

Containers for storage or transport

B65D

Pop corn heating

B65D 81/3469

Nanotechnology

B82Y

Carbon nanotubes

C01B 32/15

Surface treatment of glass-plate materials

C03C 17/00

Ceramics

C04B

Adhesives

C09J 4/00

Heat treatment of metals or alloys

C21D

Metal-spraying

C23C 4/00

Heating of sport playgrounds

E01C 13/02

Cleaning open waters, e.g. deicing

E02B 15/00

Roofs de-icing

E04D 13/00

Devices for securing together constructional elements or machine parts

F16B 1/00

Pipes; joints or fittings for pipes; supports for pipes or cables

F16L

Glow plugs

F23Q 7/001

Electrical cooker / glow plug / gas cooker

F24C

Removal of fumes associated to cooking ranges

F24C 15/2042

Domestic- or space-heating systems e.g. central heating

F24D

Air-conditioning

F24F

Fluid heaters

F24H

Drying solid materials or objects by removing liquid there from

F26B

Electric furnaces

F27B 3/08

Details or accessories of furnaces

F27D

Electrography; electrophotography; magnetography

G03G

Image fixing devices

G03G 15/2064

Controlling non-electric variables

G05D

Resistors-methods of production

H01C 7/00

Electric switches

H01H

Gas-filled discharge tubes

H01J 37/32

Semiconductor devices; methods of production

H01L

Aerials

H01Q

Removing snow or ice from cables

H02G 7/16

Removing snow from cables

H02G 7/16

Electric power conversion

H02M

Printed circuits

H05K 1/00

Special rules of classification

Usage or orthogonal indexing codes.

  • Aspects relating to Ohmic resistive heating covered by group H05B 3/00 are classified in H05B 2203/00 and subgroups.
  • Aspects relating to both to resistive heating and to induction heating, covered by H05B 3/00 and H05B 6/00 are classified in H05B 2213/00 and subgroups.
  • Aspects relative to resistive heating, induction heating and heating using microwaves, covered by groups H05B 3/00, H05B 6/00 are classified in H05B 2214/00 and subgroups.
{Heating devices using lamps}
References
Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY

A61N

{for cooking, e.g. in ovens (lamps specially adapted for non-metallic cooking plates H05B 3/742, H05B 3/744)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Lamps specially adapted for non-metallic cooking plates

H05B 3/742, H05B 3/744

{for medical applications}
References
Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Radiation therapy

A61N 5/00

Electrodes
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Electrothermic treatment of ores

C22B 4/00

characterised by the composition or nature of the conductive material
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Electric conductive compositions characterised by PTC or NTC resistance

H01C 7/02, H01C 7/04

the material being non-metallic
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Non-metallic, non-adjustable resistors

H01C 7/022, H01C 7/042

{applied to semiconductors, e.g. wafers heating (H05B 3/0047 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

For semi-conductors manufacture

H05B 3/0047

Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Apparatus for thermal treatment of semiconductor or solid-state devices or of parts thereof

H01L 21/67098

{heaters used in textiles}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Making textile fabrics

D04H

{Fabrication of the plates (for single-step processes see the appropriate subclass, e.g. in B23C, sub-section metallurgy)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Machine tool; metal-working

B23C

Heating by electric, magnetic or electromagnetic fields
Definition statement

This place covers:

  • Induction heating
  • Dielectric heating
  • Microwave heating

Further information:

H05B 6/02 and subgroups relate to induction heating

H05B 6/46 and subgroups relate to dielectric heating

H05B 6/64 and subgroups relate to microwave heating

Control of cooking plates is covered by H05B 6/062. Control of cooking appliances other than cooking plates is covered by H05B 6/06.

Apportioning of the total heating power among the different heating coils is covered by H05B 6/065. Also apportioning in time, e.g. cyclic powering on and off of each heating coil. Also supplying a coil from multiple generators or multiple coils with a controlled amount of power from multiple generators. Also synchronisation, e.g. for avoiding generation of noise, or avoiding electromagnetic interferences. Not simply matrix heating plate per-se.

Induction heating apparatus, other than furnaces, for specific applications are covered by H05B 6/10.

Cooking devices are covered by H05B 6/12 but control of induction cooking devices is covered by H05B 6/06 and continuous movement of food is covered by H05B 6/10.

Induction cooking plates or the like and devices to be used in combination with them are covered by H05B 6/1209, but control for induction cooking plates is covered by H05B 6/062 and ohmic heating plates are covered by H05B 3/68.

H05B 6/1218 deals with induction cooking plates with arrangements using lights for the indication of the state of the heating zones. The typical application deals with the provision of LED's on a cooking area that are switched on when the induction heating power of that cooking area is switched on. Also particular details of the glass ceramic plate in order to achieve such effect, for example cut out, and darken areas to only illuminate the desired portion of the cooking area. Also glass plates having a substance or material sandwiched there inside that will interact with the magnetic field of the induction coils so that light is generated when the corresponding induction coil is switched on.

H05B 6/1227 deals with Induction cooking plates specially designed for wok pans, or similar shaped pans; also wok supports specially adapted for induction cooking (facilitating magnetic field transmission, coils provided inside the support...), cook-tops with wok-shaped upper surface (so substantially concave upper surface), but also cylinder surface with coils from top to bottom; wok is also called Chinese Pan.

H05B 6/1236 deals with Induction cooking plates adapted to induce current in a coil to supply power to a device and electrical heating devices powered in this way, If it is described any of the heating device itself or a particular control of the cook-top to recognise the load and correctly supply it with power. Typically the system acts as a transformer. The heating device is provided with a secondary coil for which the induction coil of the cook-top acts as primary.

H05B 6/1245 deals with induction cooking plates with special coil arrangements. The typical application deals with a particular coil material, coil shape, coil geometry , coil position within the plate or with respect to other coils.

H05B 6/1272 deals with induction cooking plates with more than one coil or coil segment per heating zone. Also when different concentric coils or coil segments or section with different coil distance or winding direction are provided . Also when coils are provided in different planes for the same heating zone.

H05B 6/1281 deals with induction cooking plates with flat coils. This means that the coil as a whole is constructed in a flat distribution, the coil conductor can however present a non-flat section. The typical application deals with coils particularly designed to be have a small total thickness, normally by printing a conductor on a substrate or by having a thin conductor embedded in a substrate. The flatness of the conductor used for the coil is not relevant.

H05B 6/129 deals with induction ovens. These are domestic appliances similar to a kitchen ovens wherein the heating means include at least an induction coil, (possibly in addition to any of the traditional heating means resistance heating, microwave heating, convection heating). Also induction heated trolleys, for catering, for example in airplanes. Also pop-corn machines (provided there is a closable / closed) cavity. Also vending machines in general (provided there is a closable / closed) cavity. Also induction warming drawers or the like (provided there is a closable / closed) cavity. Metal heat-treating apparatus only if there is a closable / closed cavity (therefore if it looks like a domestic oven). This class applies to cooking, de-freezing, warming, heat treating and re-heating appliances (the temperature achieved is unimportant).

H05B 6/14 can be assigned in combination with any of H05B 6/36, H05B 6/101 and H05B 6/105.

H05B 6/1209 takes precedence over H05B 6/34.

H05B 6/36 deals with coil arrangements with flat coil conductors. This means that the conductor used for the coil present a flat section (as a band), but the coil itself can have a (not flat) tri-dimensional distribution.

H05B 6/6402 deals with aspects relating to the microwave cavity but multiple cavity ovens are covered by H05B 6/80, continuous movement of material is covered by H05B 6/78, ovens specially adapted to a particular application are covered by H05B 6/80.

H05B 6/6408 deals with support or covers for the load inside the cavity. Supports or covers including microwave susceptors (e.g. browning plates) are additionally covered by H05B 6/6494.

H05B 6/6414 deals with aspects relating to the door of the microwave heating apparatus but microwave leakage is covered by H05B 6/76, and microwave leakage testing is covered by H05B 6/6432.

H05B 6/6417 deals with door interlocks of the microwave heating apparatus and related circuits. Also door position detecting circuits (e.g. with switches).

H05B 6/642 deals with the cooling of the microwave components and related air circulation systems, however if the refrigerating air is being re-circulated through the cavity for convection heating the class H05B 6/6476 is relevant instead.

H05B 6/6426 deals with any aspect relating to the exterior of the microwave heating apparatus, e.g. metal casing, power cord. Also handles (in portable microwave ovens) to allow carrying the microwave oven. Portable microwave ovens are additionally covered by H05B 6/80.

H05B 6/6432 deals with aspects relating to testing or detecting leakage in a microwave heating apparatus. This means detecting or testing the microwave radiation leaking out of the microwave oven but also microwave switching off upon detection of microwave leakage. Also testing the quality of microwave seals and screens by measuring the microwave leakage. However, detecting leaked or reflected microwaves going back to the magnetron is covered by H05B 6/76.

H05B 6/6447 deals with methods of operation or details of the microwave heating apparatus related to the use of detectors or sensors. However detecting reflected radiation for feedback control purposes is covered by H05B 6/705.

H05B 6/645 deals with the use of temperature sensor or thermistors for detecting the temperature of interior of the cavity or the product placed inside. However detecting the temperature of the magnetron or any related safety aspect is covered by H05B 6/666.

Details of particular circuits or particular components of the microwave generation circuit, e.g. a particular capacitor, a particular inductor... are classified under H05B 6/66 when no other more specific subgroup is provided for.

H05B 6/662 deals with aspects related to the boost transformer of the microwave heating apparatus. However cooling of the boost transformer is covered by H05B 6/642.

H05B 6/666 deals with safety circuits. The general idea in this subgroup is identifying situations where possible damage to the circuits (including inverter and magnetron) can occur. Also simply detecting the temperature of the magnetron/inverter or measuring anode current for limiting control, detecting status or detecting moding and eventually switching off the microwave oven/signalling alarm. Also soft start-up, control of preheating mode, controlled ramp up power supply at start up or at changing power level. However H05B 6/666 does not cover:

  • fume or fire detection, covered by H05B 6/6461
  • avoiding leakage, covered by H05B 6/76
  • sensing leakage outside the microwave oven, covered by H05B 6/6432
  • aspects related with door interlocks, even if relating to avoiding over-current at start up, covered by H05B 6/6417
  • circuit where a variable (e.g. anode current) is measured on a power supplied feedback control (feedback power control with anode current), covered by H05B 6/683
  • circuit for feedback power control with input current or inverter current being measured, covered by H05B 6/685
  • avoiding radiation back into the waveguide or in the magnetron, covered by H05B 6/76
  • avoiding generation of harmonics, covered by H05B 6/68

H05B 6/68 deals with circuits for monitoring or control. Typically the power supplied is controlled in a feedback loop. Includes monitoring input / output voltage / current / power in a feedback loop. Also if it is described compensation of the cooking time taking account of fluctuations in the power supply, temperature in the cavity or variables of the magnetron. If the presence of an inverter or of a solid state oscillator is not specified then this group is given and not the sub-groups. Also avoiding generation of harmonics. Also ZVS and ZCS.

However H05B 6/68 does not cover:

  • limiting threshold control, (keeping a variable bellow a safety threshold value) covered by H05B 6/666
  • soft start-up, control of preheating mode, controlled ramp up power supply at start up or at changing power level, covered by H05B 6/666

H05B 6/681 deals with circuits comprising an inverter, a boost transformer and a magnetron. Determinant is the presence of an inverter (there will always be a boost transformer and a magnetron). Includes methods of switching the inverter to regulate power (Duty-Ratio control and Frequency control). However, H05B 6/681 does not cover control based on sensors readings of non electrical variables (e.g. temperature, humidity... inside the cavity), covered by H05B 6/687 and H05B 6/6447.

H05B 6/686 deals with circuits comprising a signal generator and power amplifier, e.g. using solid state oscillators. Determinant is the presence of any of a power amplifier or a solid state oscillator (one implies the other).

H05B 6/687 deals with circuits for monitoring or control for cooking. The general idea is solving the problem of how to bring the cooked product to a certain status. Cooking is to be understood in the broad sense, therefore meaning also simply (re-)heating food or beverages. However, it is not enough the mere mention of cooking. It must be described a method of cooking with different steps in time or upon reaching certain status based on sensors readings. Also if a method of heating a particular type of food is described. H05B 6/688, H05B 6/6435, H05B 6/6447 and H05B 6/647 can be assigned in combination with H05B 6/687. However H05B 6/687 does not cover any of the following:

  • a particular apparatus for heating a particular food product covered by H05B 6/80 or H05B 6/782
  • switching off upon reaching a certain status for safety reasons covered by H05B 6/666
  • circuits controlling the switching of the inverter covered by H05B 6/681
  • compensation of the cooking time taking account of fluctuations in the power supply, temperature in the cavity, temperature of the magnetron or age of the magnetron covered by H05B 6/68.

H05B 6/688 is equivalent to H05B 6/687 but for the case of thawing.

H05B 6/70 deals with feed lines. This means the special way of providing microwave radiation to the load (not provided for in the sub-classes), like: application of microwaves using antennas inserted in the load; application of microwaves from multiple directions and/or with different parameters (frequency, phase, power); modification of the cavity (both periodically or according to a feedback control).

H05B 6/701 deals with the use of microwave applicators. It is not enough the mere mention of the word applicator (as any cavity can be called applicator, and this interpretation would be too broad). Typically for continuous movement of material (but not only). The waveguide ends with a particular shape that acts as a resonant cavity. To distinguish from the subject-matter covered by H05B 6/6402, it is considered an applicator when the applicator is a resonant cavity of dimensions similar to those of the waveguide and in this sense the applicator/cavity can be considered a continuation of the waveguide or waveguides.

However, magnetrons providing microwaves directly to the cavity or only using a coaxial cable (so no waveguide) are covered by H05B 6/70 or H05B 6/702.

H05B 6/702 takes precedence over H05B 6/707 and s.gr. when coaxial cables are used in combination with waveguides.

H05B 6/704 deals with the use of microwave polarisers. This includes when there is an explicit description of means for polarising the microwave radiation and also when it is described a method or apparatus where the use of polarised microwave radiation solves a technical problem.

H05B 6/705 deals with the use of microwave tuning. This includes changing the phase of the microwave radiation at the point of entering the cavity. Typically a waveguide with movable parts is used to change the phase of the standing wave generated. Microwave tuning comprises also impedance matching. Also changing the frequency with the intention of obtaining minimal impedance at the input of the cavity (in a feedback loop). Also detecting / sensing / measuring the microwave radiation reflected / not adsorbed, typically to make a feedback control on the power, frequency, phase applied (also with multiple microwave sources).

H05B 6/707 deals with the use of waveguides. Also when multiple waveguides are used.

However, waveguides used in combination with coaxial cables are covered by H05B 6/702.

H05B 6/72 deals with radiators or aerials. Also when multiple antennas are used. Antennas can receive microwaves directly from the magnetron, from a waveguide or from a coaxial cable.

H05B 6/725 deals with rotatable antennas. This also includes microwave stirring devices located inside the waveguide or at the opening of a waveguide to the cavity.

H05B 6/74 deals with mode transformers or mode stirrers. Stirrers are not antennas. The stirrers "only" reflect microwaves coming from the walls of the cavity. Also Cavity with moving walls or changing shape.

However, microwave stirring devices placed inside a waveguide or at the opening of a waveguide to the cavity are covered by H05B 6/72.

H05B 6/76 deals with the prevention of microwave leakage, e.g. door sealings. This includes also screens or deflectors for avoiding radiation back into the waveguide or in the magnetron. Also using dummy loads.

However, detection of microwave leakage is covered by H05B 6/6432.

H05B 6/763 deals with microwave radiation seals for doors.

However, mere air seals are covered by H05B 6/6414.

H05B 6/78 deals with arrangements for the continuous movement of material. However H05B 6/78 does not cover:

  • arrangements for heating fluids covered by H05B 6/802
  • the invention only refers to the applicator covered by H05B 6/701

H05B 6/782 deals with arrangements for the continuous movement of material wherein the material moved is food. This also includes particular apparatus for cooking / thawing a particular food product. However, H05B 6/782 does not cover:

  • method of cooking / Thawing a particular food product in a normal microwave oven covered by H05B 6/687 and H05B 6/688
  • the invention only refers to the applicator covered by H05B 6/701

H05B 6/80 deals with microwave apparatus for specific applications. Also particular apparatus for cooking / Thawing a particular food product. Also special type of microwave ovens, (e.g. portable, for vehicles or with DC power supply). Also multiple cavity oven. Also microwave oven with a separate cavity functioning as toaster, eventually in combination with other relevant classes (H05B 6/6414, H05B 6/6402).

However H05B 6/80 does not cover:

  • methods of cooking / thawing a particular food product in a normal microwave oven covered by H05B 6/687 or H05B 6/688
  • single cavity microwave including additionally radiating means (capable of toasting bread), covered by H05B 6/6482
  • continuous movement of material covered by H05B 6/78

H05B 6/802 deals with microwave apparatus for heating fluids.

H05B 6/802 does not cover:

  • methods of heating fluids in conventional microwave ovens covered by H05B 6/687
  • documents where the invention only refers to the applicator covered by H05B 6/701

H05B 6/806 deals with microwave apparatus for laboratory use. Typically it is mentioned a chemical reactor or similar. H05B 6/806 takes precedence over H05B 6/802.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Radiation therapy using microwaves

A61N 5/02

Joining of preformed parts by heating of plastics or substances in a plastic state

B29C 65/02

Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Single-crystal growth by zone-melting or refining by zone-melting using heating of the molten zone by induction, e.g. hot wire technique

C30B 13/20

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Trolleys with heating, cooling or ventilating means

A47B 31/02

Kitchen equipment of specific material or of particular construction

A47J 36/02, A47J 27/002

Warming devices with electrical heating means

A47J 36/2483

Heat insulated warming chambers for heating food

A47J 39/006

Melt casting nozzles with heating means

B22D 41/60

Soldering

B23K 1/002

Shrink fit tools

B23P 11/025

Joining of preformed parts by heating of plastics or substances in a plastic state

B29C 65/02

Laser engraving of inorganic materials

B41M 5/262

Removing dry paint by electrically heating

B44D 3/168

Sealing of packages by induction welding

B65B 51/227

Containers, packaging elements or packages specially adapted to be heated by microwaves

B65D 81/3446

Melting furnaces

C03B 5/021

Glass-plate processing

C03C 17/36

Heat treatment of metals or alloys

C21D 1/10, C21D 1/42, C21D 9/60

Refining or remelting of metals

C22B 9/003

Heating of cords using rolls

D02J 13/005

Heating of pipes

F16L 53/34

General details of cooking plates not related to the generation or transmission of heat

F24C 7/00

Transparent panels, e.g. for doors specially adapted for stoves or ranges

F24C 15/04

Tops with provisions of circulation of air

F24C 15/101

Tube through flow heaters

F24H 1/105

Furnaces, kilns, ovens or retorts and details thereof

F27B 9/067, F27B 14/061, F27D 11/06

Electro-photography

G03G 15/2053

Vending machines in general

G07F

Inductive couplings

H01F 38/14

Inductive transmission of power in general, not directly related to heating

H01F 38/14

For wireless supply or distribution of electric power

H02J 50/00

Special rules of classification

Usage of orthogonal indexing codes.

Induction heating apparatus, other than furnaces, for specific applications
Definition statement

This place covers:

Induction heating apparatus, other than furnaces, for specific applications.

Relationships with other classification places

Further information:

H05B 6/101 relates to induction heating apparatus, other than furnaces, for local heating of metal pieces.

H05B 6/105 relates to induction heating apparatus, other than furnaces, for specific applications using a susceptor.

H05B 6/12 relates to induction cooking devices.

H05B 6/14 relates to induction tools, e.g. nozzles, rollers, calenders.

H05B 6/1218 deals with induction cooking plates with arrangements using lights for the indication of the state of the heating zones. The typical application deals with the provision of LED's on a cooking area that are switched on when the induction heating power of that cooking area is switched on.

H05B 6/1227 deals with induction cooking plates specially designed for wok pans, or similar shaped pans, also wok supports specially adapted for induction cooking (facilitating magnetic field transmission, coils provided inside the support), cook-tops with wok-shaped upper surface (so substantially concave upper surface), but also cylinder surface with coils from top to bottom; wok is also called Chinese pan.

H05B 6/1236 deals with induction cooking plates adapted to induce current in a coil to supply power to a device and electrical heating devices. Typically the system acts as a transformer. The heating device is provided with a secondary coil for which the induction coil of the cook-top acts as primary.

H05B 6/1245 deals with induction cooking plates with special coil arrangements. The typical application deals with a particular coil material, coil shape, coil geometry, coil position within the plate or with respect to other coils.

H05B 6/1272 deals with induction cooking plates with more than one coil or coil segment per heating zone. Also different concentric coils or coil segments or section with different coil distance or winding direction are provided in different planes for the same heating zone.

H05B 6/1281 deals with induction cooking plates with flat coils. This means that the coil as a whole is constructed in a flat distribution; the coil conductor can, however, present a non-flat section. The typical application deals with coils particularly designed to be a small total thickness, normally by printing a conductor on a substrate or by having a thin conductor embedded in a substrate. The flatness of the conductor used for the coil is not relevant.

H05B 6/129 deals with induction ovens. These are domestic appliances similar to kitchen ovens wherein the heating means include at least an induction coil (possibly, in addition to any of the traditional heating means resistance heating, microwave heating, convection heating), and also induction heated trolleys, for catering, for example in airplanes. This class applies to cooking, de-freezing, warming, heat treating and re-heating appliances (the temperature achieved is unimportant).

References
Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Heating arrangements specially adapted for cooking plates

H05B 3/68

Soldering by means of induction heating

B23K 1/002

Joining of preformed parts by induction heating of plasticsor substances in a plastic state

B29C 65/32

Heat treatment of metals or alloys by induction heating, surface hardening by electric induction, induction heating, continuous furnaces with induction heating

C21D 1/10, C21D 1/42, C21D 9/60

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Induction heating with coil arrangements

H05B 6/36

Melting furnaces for glass; mineral or slag wool by induction heating

C03B 5/021

Refining or remelting of metals by induction

C22B 9/003

Furnaces, kilns, ovens or retorts and detailsthereof

F27B 9/067, F27B 14/061, F27D 11/06

Inductive transmission of power in general, notdirectly related to heating

H01F 38/14

For wireless supply or distribution of electric power using inductive coupling

H02J 50/10

Heating by electric discharge (plasma torches H05H 1/26)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Details about the electrodes of electric discharge heating apparatus, including mounting of the electrodes, electrical and mechanical connections. Also methods of supplying current and controlling power in electric discharge apparatus. Also heating by glow discharge and heating by arc discharge.

Further information:

H05B 7/02 - H05B 7/09 cover details of the electrodes

H05B 7/10 - H05B 7/14 cover details about how electrodes are mounted or connected

H05B 7/148 - H05B 7/156 cover power supplies for heating by electric discharge

H05B 7/16 covers heating by glow discharge

H05B 7/18 - H05B 7/225 cover heating by arc discharge

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Plasma torches

H05H 1/26

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Soldering or welding; cutting by applying heat locally

B23K

Automatic feeding of electrodes for spot or seam welding or cutting

B23K 9/12

Electric furnaces

F27B 3/08

Details or accessories of furnaces

F27D

Disposition of electrodes in or on furnaces

F27D 11/10

Control of position in general

G05D 3/00

Regulating electric characteristics of arcs in general

G05F 1/02

Regulating electric power in general

G05F 1/66

Non-insulated conductors or conductive bodies in general

H01B 5/00

Insulated conductors or cables in general

H01B 7/00

Electron beam or ion beam tubes for localised treatment of objects

H01J 37/30

Gas-filled discharge tubes

H01J 37/32

Circuit arrangements for supplying electric power in general

H02J

Electric power conversion

H02M

{by arc image}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Indirect Radiation from the arc is focused (e.g. by an ellipsoidal mirror) into a projection on a work being heated.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Heating by means of lamps

H05B 3/0033

Spot arc welding

B23K 9/007

Investigating particle size or size distribution using imaging, e.g. a projected image of suspension; using holography

G01N 15/0227

Imaging characterized by its optical setup

G01N 2015/144

Reflectors or mirrors with curved faces

G02B 5/10

Gratings for image generation

G02B 5/1842

Optical details of the image generation

G02B 21/0052

Details of the optical system between the polygonal mirror and the image plane

G02B 26/125

Regulating electric characteristics of arcs

G05F 1/02

Heating by combined application of processes covered by two or more of groups H05B 3/00 - H05B 7/00 (H05B 7/20 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Heating by combined application of ohmic heating, induction heating, dielectric heating or electric discharge heating.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Aspects related to microwave heating combined with other heating techniques

H05B 6/647

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Bakers' ovens; machines or equipment for baking

A21B

Industrial microwave ovens

A23L 5/10

Characteristic features of footwear; parts of footwear

A43B

Heated mirrors

A47G 1/00

Kitchen equipment; coffee mills; spice mills; apparatus for making beverages

A47J

Dentistry

A61C

Methods or apparatus for sterilising materials

A61L

Chemical or physical processes

B01J

Soldering or welding; cutting by applying heat locally

B23K

Shaping or joining of plastics

B29C

Vehicle heating

B60H

Car seats

B60N

Heated mirrors for cars

B60R 1/0602

Heated windshield window (car) / heated rear window (car)

B60S 1/00

Helicopters de-icing

B64C

Airplane wings de-icing

B64D

Containers for storage or transport

B65D

Pop corn heating

B65D 81/3469

Nanotechnology

B82Y

Carbon nanotubes

C01B 32/15

Ceramics

C04B

Adhesives

C09J 4/00

Heat treatment of metals or alloys

C21D

Metal-spraying

C23C 4/00

Heating of sport playgrounds

E01C 13/02

Cleaning open waters, e.g. deicing

E02B 15/00

Roofs de-icing

E04D 13/00

Devices for securing together constructional elements or machine parts

F16B 1/00

Pipes; joints or fittings for pipes; supports for pipes or cables

F16L

Glow plugs

F23Q 7/001

Electrical cooker / glow plug / gas cooker

F24C

Removal of fumes associated to cooking range (or microwave ovens)

F24C 15/2042

Domestic- or space-heating systems e.g. central heating

F24D

Fluid heaters

F24H

Drying solid materials or objects by removing liquid there from

F26B

Electric furnaces

F27B 3/08

Details or accessories of furnaces

F27D

Electrography; electrophotography; magnetography

G03G

Controlling non-electric variables

G05D

Controlling electric or magnetic variables

G05F

Resistors; methods of production

H01C 7/00

Electric switches

H01H

Semiconductor devices; methods of production

H01L

Aerials

H01Q

Connectors

H01R

Removing snow from cables

H02G 7/16

Electric power conversion

H02M

Printed circuits

H05K 1/00

Electric arc lamps (regulating electric characteristics of arcs G05F 1/02)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Lamps where an arc is established through air or a gas mixture using consumable electrodes (for example carbon rods).

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Regulating electric characteristics of arcs

G05F 1/02

Electric arc lamps with non-consumable electrodes

H01J 61/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Circuit for gas discharge lamps

H05B 41/00

Electric lighting

F21

Electric discharge tubes or discharge lamps

H01J

Electric arc lamps with non-consumable electrodes

H01J 61/00

Special rules of classification

G05F 1/02 with non-consumable electrodes H01J 61/00

Circuit for gas discharge lamps in H05B 41/00

Electroluminescent light sources
Definition statement

This place covers:

  • Structural details of electroluminescent light sources
  • Chemical elements, chemical compositions or chemical compounds capable of emitting light
  • Circuit arrangements for driving said electroluminescent sources.
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Luminescent scales or hands

G01D 13/20, G01D 13/28

Luminescent dials

G09F 13/20

Conductive layers on isolated substrate

H01B 1/00

Discharge lamps

H01J 61/00 - H01J 65/00

Semi-conductor devices with at least one particular jump barrier or surface barrier adapted for light emission

H01L 27/15, H01L 33/00

Solid state image amplifiers

H01L 31/14

Lasers

H01S 3/00, H01S 5/00

Pulse generation with electroluminescent elements

H03K 3/00

Electronic gates with electroluminescent elements

H03K 17/78

Organic light emitting devices

H10K 59/00, H10K 50/00

Apparatus or processes specially adapted to the manufacture of electroluminescent light sources
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Luminescent materials

C09K 11/00

Electric light sources using a combination of different types of light generation
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuits and apparatus for driving two dissimilar light sources, e.g. diverse light sources or light generators, e.g. a compact fluorescent lamp and LEDs (see illustrations below)

media4.png

media5.png

The two dissimilar light sources must be in the same casing or form a single unit

This group is meant for two types of light sources used simultaneously. Phosphors or different coloured LEDs are not to be considered as dissimilar light sources for the purpose of this group.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Circuit arrangements or apparatus for operating incandescent light sources

H05B 39/00

Circuit arrangements or apparatus for igniting or operating discharge lamps, e.g. fluorescent lamps

H05B 41/00

Driving electroluminescent panels

H05B 44/00

Circuit arrangements for operating light emitting diodes [LED]

H05B 45/00

Circuit arrangements for electric light sources in general

H05B 47/00

Lighting in general

F21

Luminaries and their mechanical construction, e.g. combination of light sources

F21Y 2113/00

Gas-discharge or vapour-discharge lamps with light-emitting discharge path and separately-heated incandescent body within a common envelope.

H01J 61/96

Electric incandescent lamps

H01K

Circuit arrangements for emergency or stand-by power supply with automatic change-over

H02J 9/06

Special rules of classification

In case of failure of the lamp, circuits providing for substitution: H05B 41/46.

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following abbreviations are often used:

LED

Light emitting diode

OLED

Organic Light emitting diode

CCFL

Cold Cathode Fluorescent lamp

CFL

Compact Fluorescent lamp

HID

High Intensity discharge lamp

HPS

High Pressure lamp

Circuit arrangements or apparatus for operating incandescent light sources (structurally associated with the incandescent lamps H01K 1/62)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuit arrangements for controlling the light intensity of incandescent lamps.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Regulating electric variables, e.g. voltage or current

G05F

Incandescent lamps per se

H01K

Switching power supplies and inverters

H02M

Switching in general

H03K

Controlling
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Regulating electric variables in general

G05F

Circuit arrangements or apparatus for igniting or operating discharge lamps (structurally associated with the discharge lamps H01J 61/54, H01J 61/56)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuit arrangements, e.g. drivers, for discharge lamps.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Arc lamps with consumable electrodes

H05B 31/00

Welding using accumulated energy

B23K 11/24

Electric lighting

F21

Transformers or chokes for supplying discharge lamps

H01F 38/08

Circuit elements structurally associated with discharge lamps

H01J 7/44, H01J 19/78

Discharge lamps per se

H01J 61/00H01J 65/00

Discharge lasers

H01S 3/00

Pulse technique

H03K

PCBs in general

H05K

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following abbreviations are often used:

DDBL

Dielectric Barrier Discharge Lamp

CCFL

Cold cathode fluorescent Lamp

CFL

Compact Fluorescent Lamp

HID

High Intensity Discharge

HPL

High Pressure Lamp

HPS

High Pressure Sodium

Starting switches
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Switches in general

H01H

Igniting arrangements for discharge lamps

H01J 7/30, H01J 17/30, H01J 61/54

in which the lamp is fed by pulses, e.g. flash lamp
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Welding using accumulated energy

B23K 11/24

Circuit arrangements for gas discharge lasers

H01S 3/097

Electrical pulse generators with charge and discharge of an accumulating element

H03K 3/53

Circuit arrangements for operating electroluminescent light sources (for operating light emitting diodes H05B 45/00)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuits for driving electroluminescent panels.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Circuit arrangements for operating light emitting diodes

H05B 45/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Circuit arrangements or apparatus for operating discharge lamps, e.g. fluorescent tubes

H05B 41/00

Control of light sources general

H05B 47/00

Electric lighting

F21

Control arrangements or circuits for displays

G09G 3/00

Control arrangements or circuits for electroluminescent panels

G09G 3/30

Inorganic light emitting devices [LED]

H01L 33/00

Laser

H01S 3/00, H01S 5/00

Switching power supplies in general and inverters

H02M

Printed circuits [PCBs]; Details of electric apparatus, e.g. heatsinks

H05K

Organic light emitting devices [OLED]

H10K 99/00

Special rules of classification
  • Control of white light is classified in the colour section H05B 45/20 and subgroups.
Circuit arrangements for operating light-emitting diodes [LED]
Definition statement

This place covers:

Time switching, focus/target/beam control, LED flashes, LEDs as sensors, power saving aspects, shift registers control (simple sequences), emergency lights (when no other aspect is more relevant).

  • Circuit arrangements for operating organic or inorganic light emitting diodes.
Relationships with other classification places

Circuit arrangements specially adapted or designed for operating light emitting diodes are classified in H05B 45/00, whereas circuit arrangements for operating light sources in general, i.e. where the type of the light source is not relevant, are classified in H05B 47/00, which is the corresponding function-oriented place.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Controlling of light sources in general

H05B 47/10

Controlling in response to parameters

H05B 47/105

Controlling by the ambient light

H05B 47/11

Control using timing means

H05B 47/16

Control using data bus linked networks

H05B 47/18

Control using power line carrier linked networks

H05B 47/185

Control using wireless networks

H05B 47/19

Arrangements or circuits for vehicle lighting devices

B60Q

Arrangements or circuits for control of indicating devices using static means to present variable information

G09G

Control arrangements or circuits for displays using light-emitting diodes [LED]

G09G 3/32

Control arrangements or circuits for displays using organic light-emitting diodes [OLED]

G09G 3/3208

Arrangements or circuits for control of laser diodes not provided for lighting

H01S 5/00

Solid state devices specially adapted for light emission including an organic material in the active part of the devices, e.g. organic light-emitting diodes [OLED]

H10K 50/00

Special rules of classification

When classifying in H05B 45/00, further classification is made in H05B 47/00, for aspects, which are not lamp specific, whenever appropriate.

using electrical feedback from LEDs or from LED modules
Definition statement

This place covers:

Controlling the intensity of the light using electrical feedback from LEDs or from LED-modules, e.g. involving detection of electric parameters.

using temperature feedback
Definition statement

This place covers:

Controlling the intensity of the light in response to the signal of a temperature sensor, e.g. for derating.

Controlling the colour of the light
Definition statement

This place covers:

Transformations or calculations in a colour space, e.g. in the CIE colour space, to control the colour of the emitted light.

using electrical feedback from LEDs or from LED modules
Definition statement

This place covers:

Controlling the colour of the light using electrical feedback from LEDs or from LED-modules, e.g. involving detection of load characteristics.

Driver circuits
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuits for supplying driving voltages or currents to LEDs, e.g. impedance circuits or active circuits.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

DC/DC or AC/DC conversion

H02M

Light or sound activated switches

H03K 17/94

Frequency-control circuits
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuits for supplying driving voltage or driving current of LEDs by controlling the operating frequency of a switching device.

Phase-control circuits
Definition statement

This place covers:

Details of circuits providing leading edge phase control, e.g. triac circuits.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Bleeder circuits or dummy loads

H05B 45/3575

Reverse phase-control circuits
Definition statement

This place covers:

Details of circuits providing trailing edge phase control, e.g. AC switch circuits.

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used with the meaning indicated:

Reverse phase control

Trailing edge phase control

Pulse-control circuits
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Power conversion

H02M 3/00

Burst dimming
Definition statement

This place covers:

Driver circuits generating bursts of pulses, e.g. interrupted pulse trains, for dimming.

media10.png

Dynamic headroom control [DHC]
Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Dynamic Headroom Control [DHC]

The term Dynamic Headroom Control refers to the dynamic adjustment of a LED power supply voltage to the lowest level that is sufficient to maintain correct operation of the current sources that supply the LED(s), thereby minimising wasteful power dissipation in the current sources.

Balancing circuits
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuits for equalising the currents through a plurality of LEDs or strings of LEDs arranged in parallel.

specially adapted for retrofit LED light sources
Definition statement

This place covers:

Driver circuits for LED retrofit light sources, i.e. LED light sources that directly replace incandescent bulbs and discharge lamps.

by means of dummy loads or bleeder circuits, e.g. for dimmers
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuits to maintain dimmer operation by the use of bleeder circuits or dummy loads.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Phase control circuits

H05B 45/31

Emulating the electrical or functional characteristics of discharge lamps
Definition statement

This place covers:

Emulating the electrical or functional characteristics of discharge lamps, e.g. emulating the presence of a discharge lamp by emulating filament resistance, ignition or lamp impedance.

Switched mode power supply [SMPS]
Definition statement

This place covers:

Cuk or SEPIC – converter structures

with galvanic isolation between input and output
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Circuits containing an inverter bridge

H05B 45/39

Current mirror circuits
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Balancing circuits

H05B 45/35

Details of LED load circuits
Definition statement

This place covers:

LED load circuits without active control in the LED matrix, other than in anti-parallel arrangements.

Antiparallel configurations
Definition statement

This place covers:

LED load circuits without active control in the LED matrix, in antiparallel arrangements media11.png

with an active control inside an LED matrix
Definition statement

This place covers:

LED load circuits with active control inside the LED matrix, wherein the control switches are active devices.

media6.png

media12.png

media7.png

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

LED matrix with active control

An arrangement of LEDs and switches, whereby some of the LEDs may be switched into a series or a parallel configuration.

having LEDs disposed in parallel lines
Definition statement

This place covers:

LED load circuits having a plurality of LED branches disposed in parallel with respect a power source, each branch comprising at least one LED and one control element arranged in series.

media13.png

RGBs, current mirroring, active current balancers, minimum voltage selectors, in general when the parallel branches are gated for some purpose.

Special rules of classification

This symbol should be given as INV when the invention relates to the load configuration.

This symbol should be given as ADD when a load matching the definition can be observed in the document, but it is not the subject-matter of the invention or no details of it are provided.

having LEDs organised in strings and incorporating parallel shunting devices
Definition statement

This place covers:

LED load circuits having a plurality of LEDs units arranged in series with respect to a power source, each unit composed by at least one LED and one control element connected in parallel to the LEDs, e.g. a switch, transistor, MOSFET, Zener diode or resistor.

Examples:

media14.png

media9.png

Typical problems appearing in the documents with this symbol are: accommodation of potential in a chain of series-connected LEDs, adaptation of the number of LEDs to various supplied voltages.

Special rules of classification

This symbol should be given as INV when the invention relates to the load configuration.

This symbol should be given as ADD when a load matching the definition can be observed in the document, but it is not the subject matter of the invention or no details of it are provided.

responsive to malfunctions or undesirable behaviour of LEDs; responsive to LED life; Protective circuits
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Circuit arrangements responsive to malfunctions of light sources or light sources life in general; Protective circuits of light sources in general

H05B 47/20

Monitoring vehicle lamps

B60Q 11/00

Changing to a reserve source of current

H02J 9/00

in a parallel array of LEDs
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuits preventing general failure in case of a short circuit of at least one element of the array

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

LED matrixes disposed in parallel lines

H05B 45/46

in a series array of LEDs
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuits preventing general failure in case of an open circuit of at least one element of the array.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

LED matrixes organized in strings and incorporating parallel shunting devices

H05B 45/48

Circuit arrangements for operating light sources in general, i.e. where the type of light source is not relevant
Definition statement

This place covers:

  • The Internet of Things (IoT) applied to lighting
  • The response to the presence or movement of objects or living beings
  • The response to the environment luminance
  • Program control or Logic control
  • Remote control
  • The response to malfunctions
  • The monitoring of light source life
  • The protection circuits or methods
Relationships with other classification places

Relative to the application-oriented places H05B 39/00, H05B 41/00, H05B 45/00 and H05B 46/00, H05B 47/00 is the function-oriented place, where the type of the light source is not relevant or it is in common use.

References
Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Circuit arrangements or apparatus for operating incandescent light sources and not adapted to a particular application

H05B 39/00

Circuit arrangements or apparatus for igniting or operating discharge lamps

H05B 41/00

Circuit arrangements for operating light emitting diodes [LED]

H05B 45/00

Circuit arrangements for light sources using a charge of combustible material

H05B 46/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Wake-up lights

A61M 21/02

Radiation therapy

A61N 5/00

Colour music

A63J 17/00

Vehicle lights

B60L 1/14, B60Q

Monitoring vehicle lamps

B60Q 11/00

Railways light signals

B61L

Lighting for photographic purposes

G03B 15/02

Time controlled switching

G04, H01H, H03K

Building automation systems

G05B 15/02

Blinds or shutters

G05D 25/00

Regulating electric variables, e.g. voltage or current

G05F

Illuminated switch circuits

G08B, G08C, H02B 15/00

Traffic lights

G08G 1/00

Advertising

G09F

Light or sound activated switches

H03K 17/00

Transmission of digital information

H04L

Special rules of classification

In this group, multiple classification is applied, so that subject matter characterized by aspects covered by more than one of its subgroups, which is considered to represent information of interest for search, may also be classified in each of those subgroups.

by determining the presence or movement of objects or living beings
Definition statement

This place covers:

Controlling the light source in response to the presence or movement of objects or living beings, e.g. by radar or ultrasound.

by detecting audible sound
Definition statement

This place covers:

Controlling the light source in response to the presence or movement of objects or living beings by detecting audible sound, e.g. speech or voice commands.

by using cameras
Definition statement

This place covers:

Controlling the light source in response to the presence or movement of objects or living beings using a camera, e.g. for gesture or traffic recognition.

by determining the type of light source being controlled (electrical parameters of light source being controlled H05B 47/14)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Recognition of the type of lamp by determining non-electrical parameters, e.g. reading a lamp type identifier or label.

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Electrical parameters of light source being controlled

H05B 47/14

by determining electrical parameters of the light source
Definition statement

This place covers:

Controlling the light source by determining electrical characteristics of the light source, e.g. voltage, current or power; e.g. universal ballast.

Coordinated control of two or more light sources
Definition statement

This place covers:

Dynamic and interrelated control of two or more light sources, e.g. of their on/off pattern; e.g. gaming lighting.

by timing means
Definition statement

This place covers:

Controlling the light source by timing means, e.g. circadian lights, timed lights or burglary deterrent circuits.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Time-controlled switching in general

G04, H01H, H03K

Identifying, scaring or incapacitating burglars

G08B 15/00

following a pre-assigned programmed sequence; Logic control [LC]
Definition statement

This place covers:

Controlling the light source on the basis of stored or streamed data, in e.g. theatre lighting or ambilights.

Operational modes, e.g. switching from manual to automatic mode or prohibiting specific operations
Definition statement

This place covers:

  • Controlling operational modes of a light source, e.g. switching between manual and automatic modes
  • Selectively permitting or prohibiting operations according to circumstances, e.g. preventing a street lamp from being lit during daylight, or a flashlamp from operating when there is sufficient light
  • Configuration or calibration modes, switching from manual to automatic mode or prohibiting specific operations
via data-bus transmission
Definition statement

This place covers:

Controlling the light source via data-bus transmission, e.g. DALI or DMX.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Current supply arrangements for data switching networks, e.g. power over Ethernet

H04L 12/10

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

DALI

Digital Addressable Lighting Interface

DMX

Digital Multiplex

PoE

Power over Ethernet

{using power over ethernet [PoE] supplies}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuit arrangements for controlling light sources by remote control using power over ethernet supplies.

USB operations (power and control) are also classified in this group.

via wireless transmission
Definition statement

This place covers:

Controlling the light source via wireless transmission, e.g. RF or ZigBee.

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

RF

Radio Frequency

the transmission using visible or infrared light
Definition statement

This place covers:

Controlling the light source via wireless transmission using visible or infrared light, e.g. Li-Fi

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

LIFI or Li-Fi

Light Fidelity

{Sound control or voice control}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuit arrangements for controlling light sources by remote control via wireless transmission using sound or voice control.

Configuration or calibration modes, switching from manual to automatic mode or prohibiting specific operations are classified in this group.

{Gesture control}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Circuit arrangements for controlling light sources by remote control via wireless transmission using gesture control.

The gestures being captured by cameras or touch pads or using wearable sensing devices are classified in this group.

Responsive to malfunctions or to light source life; for protection
Definition statement

This place covers:

  • Monitoring for malfunctions such as earth faults.
  • Protection of circuits when malfunctions of light sources occur, e.g. short circuits or open circuits.
  • Control circuits and techniques responsive to ageing or degradation of the light source.
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Monitoring vehicle lamps

B60Q 11/00

Circuit arrangements for emergency or stand-by power supply, e.g. changing to a reserve source of current

H02J 9/00