Modular layered heater system

Abstract

A heater system is provided that comprises a plurality of layered heater modules, each module comprising a plurality of resistive zones. The layered heater modules are disposed adjacent one another to form the heater system, which can be adapted for a multitude of different sizes of heating targets. Preferably, the resistive zones comprise a plurality of resistive traces arranged in a parallel circuit and oriented approximately perpendicular to a primary heating direction, wherein the resistive traces comprise a positive temperature coefficient material having a relatively high TCR. The resistive traces are responsive to the heating target power gradient such that the resistive traces output additional power proximate a higher heat sink and less power proximate a lower heat sink along the primary heating direction.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.