System and method for producing a flame effect

Abstract

A system and method for producing a flame effect. Embodiments include a nozzle assembly having an outer nozzle and an inner nozzle. At least a portion of the inner nozzle is nested within at least a portion of the outer nozzle. The system also includes a fuel source having two or more different types of fuel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to flame effects, and more specifically, to systems and methods for producing flame effects using a fuel nozzle system. Background Technology

[0002] Flame effects (e.g., visible flame output) are used to provide an aesthetically pleasing display for customers and others in a variety of applications and industries, including the fireworks industry, service industries (e.g., restaurants, cinemas), and amusement parks. Flame effects generally involve igniting and / or burning one or more fuels. For example, a torch displayed in a restaurant may include a wick soaked in fuel (e.g., kerosene) configured to burn upon ignition. Burning kerosene and a wick produces a flame effect that provides ambient light for customers in the restaurant.

[0003] Flame effects are more aesthetically pleasing and impressive when they are larger and colored. For example, a flame effect with a larger orange flame is more attractive and impressive than one with a small, pale yellow flame. Additionally, a small, pale yellow flame may be completely or partially invisible in outdoor applications on a bright afternoon. In fact, especially in outdoor applications, flame effects can appear different at different times of day or year, depending on environmental factors such as sunlight, weather, pollution, and wind conditions. Unfortunately, colored flame effects are generally consistent with incomplete combustion, and incomplete combustion largely contributes to pollution due to residual materials, often referred to as soot or ash (e.g., pollutants). Therefore, it is now recognized that there is still a need for improved systems and methods to produce flame effects that balance cleanliness, efficiency, and color, making them aesthetically pleasing, cleanly burning, cost-effective, clearly visible at any given time during operation, and adaptable to environmental factors. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The following outlines certain embodiments that are equivalent in scope to the originally claimed subject matter. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure; rather, they are merely intended to provide a brief overview of some of the disclosed embodiments. In fact, this disclosure may include various forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.

[0005] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a system includes a nozzle assembly having an outer nozzle and an inner nozzle. At least a portion of the inner nozzle is nested within at least a portion of the outer nozzle. The system also includes a fuel source having two or more different types of fuel.

[0006] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a system includes an automatic controller configured to adjust a fuel source based on environmental factors surrounding the system to control fluid flow from the fuel source to a first nozzle and a second nozzle of a nozzle assembly.

[0007] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method of operating a system includes determining environmental factors surrounding the system and fluidly connecting a first type of fuel from a fuel source having two or more different fuel types to a first nozzle and a second type of fuel from the fuel source to a second nozzle. The method further includes delivering the first type of fuel through the first nozzle at a first pressure, delivering the second type of fuel through the second nozzle at a second pressure, and delivering the first and second types of fuel through an ignition structure such that the first and second types of fuel are ignited to produce a flame effect.

[0008] The subsystems and components that make up a flame effect system include multiple features that, individually or collaboratively, enable efficient use of fuel, control and management of flame characteristics, relative positioning of flame elements, control of flame characteristics based on environmental conditions, control of associated debris (e.g., soot and ash), and enhanced operational characteristics. These different features and their specific effects are described in detail below. Attached Figure Description

[0009] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of this disclosure will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like symbols denote like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

[0010] Figure 1 This is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a flame effect system according to the present disclosure, which includes a nozzle assembly and a control system;

[0011] Figure 2 The image is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present disclosure, which includes a portion of a flame effect system comprising a nested nozzle assembly integrated with a dragon model and a control system structure.

[0012] Figure 3 A perspective view of an embodiment of a nozzle assembly according to the present disclosure, which includes nested nozzles;

[0013] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a nozzle assembly according to the present disclosure, which includes nested converging-diverging nozzles.

[0014] Figure 5 In accordance with this disclosure Figure 4 A front view of the nozzle assembly;

[0015] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a nozzle assembly according to the present disclosure, which includes three nozzles arranged in a nested manner;

[0016] Figure 7 In accordance with this disclosure Figure 6 A front view of the nozzle assembly;

[0017] Figure 8 Cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a nozzle assembly according to the present disclosure, including two converging nozzles;

[0018] Figure 9 Cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a nozzle assembly according to the present disclosure, including two substantially straight wall nozzles;

[0019] Figure 10 Cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a nozzle assembly according to the present disclosure, including two nested nozzles;

[0020] Figure 11 Perspective view of an embodiment of a nozzle assembly according to the present disclosure, including two nested nozzles;

[0021] Figure 12 Schematic block diagram of a nozzle assembly according to the present disclosure; and

[0022] Figure 13 Method of operating a system including a nozzle assembly according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The presently disclosed embodiments relate to a system and method to produce and control a flame effect that can be aesthetically pleasing, clearly visible during operation, substantially clean burning, cost effective, and adaptable to environmental factors (e.g., sunlight, weather, pollution, wind conditions). The presently disclosed embodiments include a system and method that uses a nozzle assembly having nested nozzles that facilitate providing desired flame characteristics. For example, the present embodiments can control the amount of fuel, the pressure of the fuel, the type of fuel, etc. that flows through the multiple nozzles of the nested nozzle assembly to achieve certain flame characteristics (e.g., throw distance, placement of gas envelope, visibility, soot content, soot dispersion pattern). The present embodiments can include or employ converging-diverging nozzles (e.g., de Laval nozzles) having a nozzle assembly for producing a flame effect to promote certain flame characteristics. For simplicity, the converging-diverging nozzles can be referred to herein as "Laval nozzles." However, it should be noted that the present embodiments encompass any converging-diverging nozzle configured to accelerate a gas passing through the nozzle.

[0024] Turning first to Figure 1, showing a schematic block diagram including an embodiment of a flame effect system 10 according to the present disclosure. Among other things, the system 10 can include a nozzle assembly 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the nozzle assembly 12 includes an inner nozzle 14 and an outer nozzle 16, with at least a portion of the inner nozzle 14 nested within and generally concentric with at least a portion of the outer nozzle 16. In one embodiment, the inner and outer nozzles 14, 16 can include portions that are axially symmetric and / or planar symmetric, but not perfectly concentric. In embodiments according to the present disclosure, the nozzle assembly 12 is configured to produce a flame effect 17 (e.g., a flame plume) that is clearly visible and suitable for environmental factors.

[0025] In the illustrated embodiment, the nozzle assembly 12 is configured to produce the flame effect 17 by accelerating or passing a fuel (e.g., a gaseous or substantially gaseous fuel) through the inner nozzle 14 and the outer nozzle 16. In some embodiments, an adjustment device can adjust the pressure (and, thus, the flow rate) and / or temperature of the fuel (e.g., prior to reaching the nozzles 14, 16) such that the fuel is delivered to the nozzles 14, 16 at a sufficiently high flow rate such that the fuel can be accelerated or passed through the nozzle assembly 12 and, in some embodiments, mixed within the nozzle assembly 12. For example, in one embodiment, the inner nozzle 14 and the outer nozzle 16 can each include converging and diverging portions. The converging and diverging portions can be configured to accelerate the gas passing through the nozzles 14, 16. In another embodiment, the nozzles 14, 16 can include only converging portions or the nozzles 14, 16 can include only diverging portions. In either embodiment, the nozzles 14, 16 are each configured to define a path through which the fuel gas flows such that the operating pressure of the flame effect system 10 (e.g., the pressure supplied by the adjustment device) can be minimized while still passing the gas through the respective nozzles 14, 16 and mixing the gas within the respective nozzles 14, 16. Additionally, the inner nozzle 14 can terminate within the outer nozzle 16 such that the gas flowing through the entry nozzle enters a central portion of the outer nozzle 16. Depending on the embodiment, the gas can remain substantially separate within the outer nozzle 16 or the gas can mix within the outer nozzle 16. Such embodiments will be discussed in detail below with reference to subsequent figures. It should be noted that, in some embodiments, fluids other than fuel (e.g., gases) can be used to produce different effects (e.g., effects related to mist). Also, some embodiments can use both fuel and non-fuel fluids. Fuel gas is generally used as a specific example in the present disclosure, but it should be understood that other fluids can be employed.

[0026] After passing through the nozzles 14, 16 (or, in some embodiments, prior to acceleration), the gaseous fuel is ignited to produce the flame effect 17. In the illustrated embodiment, the flame effect 17 is produced by the outer nozzle 16. In other embodiments, the inner nozzle 14 can produce the flame effect 17. In some embodiments, the flame effect 17 can be produced by both the inner and outer nozzles 14, 16. In some embodiments, the flame effect 17 can be produced by the outer nozzle 16 and the inner nozzle 14 can be used to produce a different effect (e.g., a mist effect). In some embodiments, the flame effect 17 can be produced by the inner nozzle 14 and the outer nozzle 16 can be used to produce a different effect (e.g., a mist effect). In some embodiments, the inner and outer nozzles 14, 16 can be used to produce different effects (e.g., a flame effect and a mist effect). Figure 1In the illustrated embodiment of system 10, gaseous fuel is delivered through nozzles 14, 16, exits nozzle assembly 12 at a high velocity, and is delivered past an ignition structure 18 (e.g., an igniter) that includes a pilot that ignites or lights the gaseous fuel as it passes the pilot to produce a flame effect 17. Flame effect 17 is carried away from nozzle assembly 12 a distance due to the velocity of the hot gaseous fuel exiting nozzle assembly 12. In addition, flame effect 17 can include particular characteristics based on a number of factors. For example, the profile of the flow path in nozzles 14, 16 of nozzle assembly 12, the type of fuel used, which of the different types of fuel is supplied through nozzles 14, 16, the pressure of the fuel, etc. define the characteristics of flame effect 17, as will be discussed in detail below.

[0027] In Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment of system 10, gaseous fuel is delivered through nozzles 14, 16, exits nozzle assembly 12 at a high velocity, and is delivered past an ignition structure 18 (e.g., an igniter) that includes a pilot that ignites or lights the gaseous fuel as it passes the pilot to produce a flame effect 17. Flame effect 17 is carried away from nozzle assembly 12 a distance due to the velocity of the hot gaseous fuel exiting nozzle assembly 12. In addition, flame effect 17 can include particular characteristics based on a number of factors. For example, the profile of the flow path in nozzles 14, 16 of nozzle assembly 12, the type of fuel used, which of the different types of fuel is supplied through nozzles 14, 16, the pressure of the fuel, etc. define the characteristics of flame effect 17, as will be discussed in detail below.

[0028] Additionally, the automatic controller 28, including the processor 30 and the memory 32, can provide an output that causes one of the tanks 22, 24, 26 to be fluidically coupled with the fluid passageway for one of the inner or outer nozzles 14, 16, as described above. In the illustrated embodiment, one of the tanks 22, 24, 26 can be arranged in fluid communication with the fluid passageway 34 of the inner nozzle 14, and another tank can be arranged in fluid communication with the fluid passageway 36 of the outer nozzle 16. For example, the automatic controller 28 can operate to arrange the first tank 22, having a supply of propane, in fluid communication with the fluid passageway 36 of the outer nozzle 16, and to arrange the second tank 24, having a supply of natural gas, in fluid communication with the fluid passageway 34 of the inner nozzle 14. The automatic controller 28 can provide the output based on one or more control algorithms that take into account one or more input values (e.g., manual inputs, sensor measurements, data feeds). For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the automatic controller 28 receives inputs from an internet system 37 (which is merely an example of a communication network), a sensor 38 disposed in the environment 40 proximate the flame effect 17, or both. Additionally, the inputs to the automatic controller 28 can be analog, digital, or both. The internet system 37 (or a different communication network) and the sensor 38 or some other device or input to the automatic controller 28 provide information to the automatic controller 28 related to environmental factors in the environment 40. For example, the environmental factors can include brightness, pollution, sunlight, weather, time of day, humidity, wind conditions, soot levels from the flame effect 17, or some other environmental factor. In some embodiments, each of the inner and outer nozzles 14, 16 can include its own corresponding fuel source, automatic controller, sensor, internet system, program, and / or memory. Additionally, in some embodiments, more than two nested nozzles or sets of nested nozzles can be employed.

[0029] The automatic controller 28 can include a burner controller 41 in addition to the processor 30. The burner controller 41 is configured to initiate a firing sequence upon receiving a trigger signal from the processor 30. The burner controller 41 ignites the ignition structure 18 (e.g., an igniter), confirms ignition of the ignition structure 18, and then initiates release of fuel from the fuel source 20 to the nozzles 14, 16, which subsequently ignite the fuel to produce the flame effect 17. The processor 30 can then analyze all incoming information (e.g., digital or analog signals from the sensor 38, the internet system 37, or some other input) and determine whether to signal the burner controller 41 to initiate the firing sequence again.

[0030] The processor 30 (of the automatic controller 28, for example) can represent multiple processors that cooperate to provide certain functionality, the processor 30 can execute computer-readable instructions (e.g., a computer program) 32 on a memory 32, the memory 32 representing a tangible (non-transitory) machine-readable medium. The computer program can include logic that considers measurements from sensors 38 (the sensors 38 can represent multiple different sensors) and / or the internet system 37 and determines which tank or tanks of the fuel source 20 to arrange in fluid communication with the fluid passageways 34, 36 of the system 10 to produce the most desirable flame effect 17. The most desirable flame effect 17 can include flame effect factors related to the color of the flame effect 17, the brightness of the flame effect 17, the cleanliness of the flame effect 17, the cost-effectiveness of the flame effect 17, the length of the flame effect 17, and / or the safety of the flame effect 17, among others. The computer program executed by the processor 30 can consider all, more, or a subset of the above-described flame effect 17 factors. Additionally, the automatic controller 28 can cooperate with different structures of the system 10 (e.g., pumps, compressors, different or backup burner and nozzle assemblies) to control different aspects of the flame. For example, if the automatic controller 28 determines that higher pressure is needed, a compressor can be activated or a pilot source before the inlet of the nozzles 14, 16 can be activated. As another example, if the controller determines that the nozzles 14, 16 can not be working properly (e.g., due to soot buildup), a valve can close the passageway to the nozzles 14, 16 and direct the fuel to a set of backup nozzles. In yet another embodiment, a set of different nozzles that provide different flame characteristics can be selected by the automatic controller 28 to operate based on sensor data (e.g., certain nozzles can be preferred for windy conditions).

[0031] Continuing the description of the illustrated embodiment, the automatic controller 28 is configured to open and / or close control valves 42, 44 (one for each of the inner and outer nozzles 14, 16) to correspondingly allow or block fluid flow through the fuel passages 34, 36 to the inner and outer nozzles 14, 16. The automatic controller 28 can open and / or close the control valves 42, 44 based on measurements and / or information from the sensors 38 and the internet system 37 in the same manner as described above. In some embodiments, the automatic controller 28 can open or close one or both of the control valves 42, 44 to some limited degree to adjust the pressure of fuel sent from the fuel source 20 to either of the fuel passages 34, 36. Alternatively or in combination with the control aspects described above, the control valves 42, 44 can each include an adjuster or an adjuster can be included in the fuel source 20 to adjust the pressure. The automatic controller 28 can be instructed by the processor 30 to control the adjuster or control valves 42, 44 in the manner described above. In other words, generally, the automatic controller 28 can adjust the pressure of fuel supplied to the fuel passages 34, 36 (and, ultimately, to the inner and outer nozzles 14, 16) based on environmental factors supplied by the sensors 38 and / or the internet system 37. Additionally, the pressure of fuel delivered to the inner and outer nozzles 14, 16 can be different for each of the inner and outer nozzles 14, 16, respectively, depending on the desired flame effect. For example, to achieve a flame of approximately 30 to 40 feet (9.1 to 12.2 meters), the pressure of natural gas delivered to the inner nozzles 14 (measured, for example, in pounds per square inch (psi) and kiloPascals (Kpa)) can range, for example, from 10 to 40 psi (69 to 276 Kpa), 20 to 30 psi (138 to 207 Kpa), or 22 to 28 psi (152 to 193 Kpa), and the pressure of propane delivered to the outer nozzles 16 can range, for example, from 1 to 20 psi (7 to 138 Kpa), 5 to 15 psi (34 to 103 Kpa), or 7 to 11 psi (48 to 76 Kpa). It should be noted that, in some embodiments, the pulse flame effect 17 can be achieved by delivering fuel to the inner and outer nozzles 14, 16 in pulses at the pressures above or otherwise. For example, the automatic controller 28 can instruct the fuel source 20 (e.g., through the adjuster or control valves 42, 44) to supply propane to the outer nozzles 16 and natural gas to the inner nozzles 14 at a constant pressure for a five-second period separated by a three-second period in which the second fuel source (e.g., through the adjuster or control valves 42, 44) is shut off. This can result in the flame effect 17 being visible in repeated five-second periods separated by each three-second period. Between these periods, the automatic controller 28 can cause an inert gas to be delivered through both nozzles 14, 16 to quickly extinguish any residual flames.In some embodiments, the inert gas can also be used to expel debris, including soot and ash, out of the nozzle assembly 12 to prevent buildup within the nozzles 14, 16 and surrounding equipment or objects. In other words, the inert gas will not only extinguish residual flames, but can also be used generally to purge soot and ash that has already built up within the nozzles 14, 16 out of the flame effect system 10.

[0032] Further to the above discussion, the sensors 38 disposed in the environment 40 and the internet system 37 or other devices or communication systems can be configured to detect and / or supply data regarding a plurality of various environmental factors of the environment 40 to the automated controller 28, including ambient light (e.g., sunlight), brightness of the flame effect 17, pollution, temperature, wind conditions, and weather, among others. For example, the sensors 38 can detect that the environment 40 is brighter and can provide information regarding the brightness of the environment 40 to the automated controller 28. The automated controller 28 can execute logic based on the information received from the sensors 38 to provide an output to arrange the first tank 22 (having propane) of the fuel source 30 in fluid communication with the second fluid pathway 36 and the second fuel tank 24 (having natural gas) of the fuel source 30 in fluid communication with the first fluid pathway 34. The automated controller 28 can also instruct the control valves 42, 44 to open completely so that the first fuel tank 22 is fluidly coupled to the outer nozzle 16 and the second fuel tank 24 is fluidly coupled to the inner nozzle 14, with propane being supplied to the outer nozzle 16 at the same or different pressure and flow rate as the natural gas supplied to the inner nozzle 14, depending on the information received by the processor 30 from the sensors 38, the internet system 37, or some other input to the processor 30 and depending on the desired flame effect 17. The propane can be accelerated through the outer nozzle 16 and the natural gas can be accelerated through the inner nozzle 14. The gases can exit the nozzle assembly 12, pass over the igniter 18, and produce a visible flame effect 17, with the flame effect 17 achieving the best combination of brightness, cost-effectiveness, and cleanliness based on the environmental factors originally supplied to the processor 30, as described above.

[0033] It should be noted that, as indicated above, the processor 30 can execute a computer program (e.g., control logic) that takes into account the inputs based on factors such as the brightness, cost-effectiveness, and cleanliness of the flame effect 17. In addition, the computer program can weight individual ones of these and other factors based on a desired importance of such factors. In addition, the automatic controller 28 can control the type of fuel supplied to each fuel passage 24, 26 (and, thus, to any of the nozzles 14, 16) and / or the flow rate (and, thus, pressure) of the type of fuel supplied to any of the fuel passages 24, 26 (and, thus, to any of the nozzles 14, 16). For example, in one embodiment, on bright days, the controller 28 can direct the above actions to ensure that the flame effect 17 burns a clearly visible color during the day, but is still cost-effective and clean. Alternatively, in another embodiment, on dark days, the controller 28 can direct the above actions to ensure that the flame effect 17 is clean and cost-effective, but still visible. Details regarding the type of fuel supplied to the inner and outer nozzles 14, 16 and the flow rate of the fuel will be described in more detail below with respect to achieving a desirable flame effect 17.

[0034] Turning now to Figure 2 , a perspective view of a portion of an embodiment of the system 10 and accompanying nozzle assembly 12 disposed within a dragon model 60 (e.g., a statue or an electronic animal system). The system 10 can be at least partially hidden within the dragon model 60 (e.g., within the mouth 62 of the dragon 60) such that the flame effect 17 produced by the system 10 and accompanying nozzle assembly 12 exits the mouth 62 of the dragon 60. In other words, the system 10 in combination with the dragon statue 60 can create the illusion of a fire-breathing (e.g., gas-spewing) dragon 60 for entertainment value.

[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, the components of the system 10 are generally hidden within the mouth 62 of the dragon 60. For example, referring to Figure 1The components described in the middle, fuel source 20, controller 28, control valves 42, 44, internet system 37, processor and memory 30, 32 and other components can be completely hidden from view from an external position of the mouth 62 of the dragon 60. Certain components within the mouth 62 can be mounted to an interior surface of the dragon 60 to position the system 10. For example, the fuel source 20 of fuel can be mounted to a component of the dragon 60 such that components directly and indirectly coupled (e.g., structurally coupled) to the fuel source 20 are also supported. Additionally, the nozzles 14, 16 can be hung from the top of the mouth 62 of the dragon 60, or can be supported by a component extending upward from the bottom of the mouth 62 of the dragon 60 to the nozzles 14, 16. Additionally, the igniter 18 can include a pilot 64, where the igniter 18 (e.g., a jet pilot) extends upward (e.g., in direction 66) from a bottom surface just inside the mouth 62 of the dragon 60, and releases the pilot 64 upon receiving an indication from the burner controller 41 (as described above). As such, the gaseous fuel accelerated out of the nozzles 14, 16 can pass through the pilot 64 of the igniter 18, and continue out of the mouth 62 generally in direction 68 as the flame effect 17. In some embodiments, the flame effect 17 can be between about 10 to 60 feet (3-18 meters), 20 to 50 feet (6-15 meters), or 30 to 40 feet (9-12 meters) away from the pilot 64 in the mouth 62 of the dragon 60 in direction 68. The distance of the flame effect 17 from the mouth 52 of the dragon 60 can be determined, at least in part, by the flow rate of fuel supplied to the fuel passages 34, 36 (and, thus, the flow rate of fuel supplied to the inner nozzle 14 and the outer nozzle 16) by the controller 28, among other factors, as described above.

[0036] Turning now to Figure 3 , a perspective view of the nozzle assembly 12 having the inner nozzle 14 and the outer nozzle 16 is shown. The inner nozzle 14 can include a threaded portion 70 at an inlet 72 of the inner nozzle 14 for coupling the inner nozzle 14 to a corresponding control valve 42 or passage (e.g., passage 34) extending between the inner nozzle 14 and the control valve 42. The outer nozzle 14 can also include a threaded portion 74 at an inlet 76 of the outer nozzle 16 for coupling the outer nozzle 16 to a corresponding control valve 44 or passage (e.g., passage 36) extending between the outer nozzle 16 and the control valve 44.

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, the inner nozzle 14 extends into the side 78 of the outer nozzle 16 and curves within the outer nozzle 16 to a substantially concentric orientation (e.g., relative to the outer nozzle 16). In other words, in the illustrated embodiment, at least the outlet 80 of the inner nozzle 14 is substantially concentric with the outlet 81 of the outer nozzle 16 about a longitudinal axis 82 that extends generally in the direction 68 within the nozzle assembly 12. In another embodiment, the outlets 81 and 80 can not be substantially concentric, but the cross-sectional profiles of the outlets 80, 81 can be substantially parallel to a single plane (e.g., a plane that is perpendicular to the direction 68). In other words, in some embodiments, the outlets 81 and 80 can be nested (e.g., for at least a portion), but can not be substantially concentric. For example, the outlets 80, 81 can be axially symmetric and / or planar symmetric. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the outlet 80 of the inner nozzle 14 is offset from the outlet 81 of the outer nozzle 16 along the longitudinal axis 82 by an offset distance 84. The technical effects of the substantial concentricity and the offset distance 84 of the nozzle assembly 12 are described below.

[0038] As previously described, a gaseous fuel or other fluid (e.g., a non-combustible fluid or inert gas) is accelerated through both the inner nozzle 14 and the outer nozzle 16. For example, fuel enters the outer nozzle 16 at the inlet 76 of the outer nozzle 16. The fuel is accelerated through the outer nozzle 16 and approaches the outer surface 86 of the inner nozzle 14, which can partially disrupt the flow of fuel (e.g., fluid) through the outer nozzle 16. However, the outlet 80 of the inner nozzle 14 is offset from the outlet 81 of the outer nozzle 16 by the offset distance 84. Thus, the flow of fuel within the outer nozzle 16 can at least partially recover and / or accelerate within the nozzle assembly 12 before exiting the outlet 81 of the outer nozzle 16. In other words, as the flow of fuel within the outer nozzle 16 passes by the inner nozzle 14, the flow can be disrupted and can become more turbulent. After passing the outlet 80 of the inner nozzle 14, the flow of fuel from the outer nozzle 16 through the outlet 80 of the inner nozzle 14 can partially recover (e.g., become less turbulent) because (a) the fuel (e.g., supplied to the outer nozzle 16) is subjected to pressure radially outward due to the flow of fuel (e.g., supplied to the inner nozzle 14) exiting the outlet 80 of the inner nozzle 14, and (b) the fuel (e.g., supplied to the outer nozzle 16) is subjected to pressure radially inward due to the structure of the outer nozzle 16 itself.

[0039] Further, as indicated above, fluid enters the inner nozzle 14 through the inlet 72 of the inner nozzle 14 and is bent into a substantially concentric portion of the inner nozzle 14 or at least a portion of the substantially co-flow direction with the outer nozzle 16, for example, within the outer nozzle 16. The fuel is accelerated through the inner nozzle 14 and exits at the outlet 80 of the inner nozzle 14 into a portion of the outer nozzle 16. Thus, the fuel accelerated through the outer nozzle 16 can form a substantially annular layer 88 around the fuel exiting the inner nozzle 14 and entering the outer nozzle 16. As described above, the fuel in the annular layer 88 can at least partially recover after being disturbed by the obstruction caused by the inner nozzle 14 due to the inward pressure from the outer nozzle 16 itself and the outward pressure induced via the cylindrical flow body 90 of fuel exiting the inner nozzle 14. In other words, the annular layer 88 can surround or wrap around the substantially cylindrical flow body 90 (e.g., in terms of volume). The cylindrical flow body 90 and the annular layer 88 can actually be curved or curvilinear due to the convergence and divergence of the outer nozzle 16. Further, in some embodiments, the cylindrical flow body 90 and the annular layer 88 can be completely mixed or mixed to a limited degree due to the configuration of the outer nozzle 16, the annular layer 88 flows through the outer nozzle 16, and the cylindrical flow body 90 flows through the outer nozzle 16 after exiting the inner nozzle 14. Thus, it should be understood that the annular layer 88 and the cylindrical flow body 90 within the outer nozzle 16 downstream of the outlet 80 of the inner nozzle 14 can generally conform to the shape of the outer nozzle 16 downstream of the outlet 80 of the inner nozzle 14 or, in some embodiments, can be mixed due to the shape of the outer nozzle 16 downstream of the outlet 80 of the inner nozzle 14. Thus, it should be recognized that the "annular layer" and / or "cylindrical flow body" geometry (e.g., with respect to the fluid flow through the nozzle assembly 12) can vary, but the terms "annular layer" and / or "cylindrical flow body" represent the general shape of the fluid flow from the outer nozzle 16 and the inner nozzle 14, respectively, in one embodiment. Various embodiments regarding the configuration and effects of the fluid flow through the nozzles 14, 16 will be discussed in greater detail below.

[0040] Continuing with the illustrated embodiment, the annular layer 88 can comprise a first type of fuel (or other fluid) and the cylindrical flow body 90 can comprise a second, different type of fuel (or other fluid), as previously described. It should be noted that the fluid flowing through the outer nozzle 16 prior to reaching the inner nozzle 14 at the point where the inner nozzle 14 enters the outer nozzle 16 can actually flow through all of the outer nozzle 16 and, thus, is not an "annular film" prior to the inner nozzle 14 intersecting into the outer nozzle 16. As previously described, the fuel or fluid making up the annular layer 88 and the fuel or fluid making up the cylindrical flow body 90 can be determined based on the environmental factors measured by the sensor 38 and relayed by the processor 30 to instruct the automated controller 28, for example, to adjust the fuel sources 22 and 24 and the respective control valves 42 and 44 (e.g., as described above) to achieve the desired fuel type or composition. In some embodiments, the fuel or fluid making up the annular layer 88 and the cylindrical flow body 90 can be determined based on the environmental factors measured by the sensor 38 and relayed by the processor 30 to instruct the automated controller 28 to adjust the fuel sources 22 and 24 and the respective control valves 42 and 44 to achieve the desired fuel type or composition. In some embodiments, the fuel or fluid making up the annular layer 88 and the cylindrical flow body 90 can be determined based on the environmental factors measured by the sensor 38 and relayed by the processor 30 to instruct the automated controller 28 to adjust the fuel sources 22 and 24 and the respective control valves 42 and 44 to achieve the desired fuel type or composition. Figure 1 and2 As illustrated in FIG. 1, the nozzle assembly 12 includes an inner nozzle 14 and an outer nozzle 16. The inner nozzle 14 is configured to produce a cylindrical flow body 90 (e.g., a column of flame) that is surrounded by an annular layer 88 (e.g., a ring of flame). The annular layer 88 is produced by the outer nozzle 16. In one embodiment, the annular layer 88 (e.g., of the outer nozzle 16) includes propane, which burns up more visibly than other combustible fuels (e.g., natural gas) during the day. The cylindrical flow body 90 (e.g., originating from the inner nozzle 14) may, for example, include natural gas, which does not burn up as visibly as other combustible fuels (e.g., propane) during the day, but it is cleaner and less expensive. As such, on bright days, the flame effect 17 produced by the nozzle assembly 12 can include a clearly visible annular layer 88 of burning propane that surrounds a cleaner-burning, less expensive cylindrical flow body 90 of natural gas. In another embodiment, the annular layer 88 and the cylindrical flow body 90 can actually mix within the outer nozzle 16 downstream of the outlet 80 of the inner nozzle 14. Thus, the flame effect 17 can be brightly and cleanly burning, but can not necessarily include a brightly burning outer layer (e.g., an outer membrane) and a cleanly burning inner portion, but can instead be substantially mixed such that the entire flame effect 17 is brightly and colorfully burning while also remaining clean.

[0041] In another embodiment, the annular layer 88 can include natural gas, and the cylindrical flow body 90 can include propane, which produces a clearly visible cylindrical flow body 90 of burning propane and a cleaner-burning, less expensive annular layer 88 of natural gas. Alternatively, the two portions of fluid can be thoroughly mixed, as described above. Additionally, in any of the embodiments described above, natural gas is generally more buoyant than propane, which can enable the cleaner-burning natural gas to "carry" burning or jetting propane contaminants to a distance such that the propane contaminants can disperse and / or diffuse over the distance when mixed with air, as opposed to the propane contaminants concentrating (e.g., settling) in a particular area. As previously described, the selection of fuel type for each nozzle 14, 16 can be dictated by the automatic controller 28 based on environmental factors measured by the sensors 38 and / or relayed from the Internet system 37. Additionally, the respective pressures (and, thus, respective flow rates) of the fuel in the annular layer 88 and the fuel in the cylindrical flow body 90 can be enabled by the dictates of the automatic controller 28, as previously described, to optimize the flame effect 17 based on computer programs executed by the processor 30.

[0042] Turning now to Figure 4 An embodiment of the nozzle assembly 12 is illustrated in a cross-sectional side view. In particular, in Figure 4In the illustrated embodiment, the nozzles 14, 16 are Laval nozzles. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner nozzle 14 enters the side 78 of the outer nozzle 16 at an angle 100, where the angle 100 is measured between the longitudinal axis 102 of the inlet portion 104 of the inner nozzle 14 and the longitudinal axis 82 of the nozzle assembly 12. The angle 100 can be between about 20 and 70 degrees, 30 and 60 degrees, 40 and 50 degrees, or 43 and 47 degrees. The angle 100 can be determined during design based on a variety of factors. For example, the angle 100 can be obtuse to enable better flow through the inner nozzle 14. In other words, with the obtuse angle 100, the inner nozzle 14 includes a more gradual curve 102 within the outer nozzle 16, which can enable improved flow through the inner nozzle 14. However, due to the inclusion of the obtuse angle 100, the inlet portion 104 of the inner nozzle 14 can be longer and enable the flow within the outer nozzle 16 to overcome a greater resistance. Alternatively, with the acute angle 100, the inlet portion 104 is shorter and enables the flow within the outer nozzle 16 to overcome a lesser resistance, but the flow within the inner nozzle 14 can experience increased turbulence due to the sudden change in direction of the flow. Additionally, the offset distance 84 can affect the optimal angle 100, as the annular film 88 provides a flow resistance from the inlet portion 104 of the inner nozzle 14 to be recovered over a longer distance due to a greater offset distance 84. Thus, in some embodiments, the offset distance 84 can be longer and the angle 100 more acute, which enables improved flow through the inner nozzle 14 and enables the flow through the outer nozzle 16 (e.g., the annular film 88) to have a longer distance to recover.

[0043] Continuing Figure 4 As previously described, both the inner nozzle 14 and the outer nozzle 16 converge in one portion and diverge in another portion. For example, the inner nozzle 14 includes a converging portion 106 and a diverging portion 108, and the outer nozzle 16 includes a converging portion 110 and a diverging portion 112. Between the converging portion 106 and the diverging portion 108 of the inner nozzle 14 is a throat 114 of the inner nozzle 14. Between the converging portion 110 and the diverging portion 112 of the outer nozzle 16 is a throat 116 of the outer nozzle 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet 80 of the inner nozzle 14 is disposed proximate the beginning of the converging portion 110 of the outer nozzle 16. In other words, in some embodiments, the offset distance 84 can substantially correspond to the collective length of the converging portion 110 and the diverging portion 112 of the outer nozzle. This can enable the annular film 88 to be at least partially recovered in the outer nozzle 16 within the converging portion 110 and the diverging portion 112 of the outer nozzle 16. Alternatively, in some embodiments, a longer mixing distance can be provided for the gas (e.g., the annular film 88 and the cylindrical flow body 90) within the outer nozzle 16 (e.g., measured from the outlet 80 of the inner nozzle 14 to the outlet 81 of the outer nozzle 16).

[0044] InFigure 5 An embodiment of the nozzle assembly 12 is shown in the front view. In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet 80 of the inner nozzle 14 and the outlet 81 of the outer nozzle 16 are substantially concentric about the longitudinal axis 82. During operation, an annular layer 88 exists between the outer nozzle 16 and the inner nozzle 14, and the cylindrical flow body 90, exiting the inner nozzle 14 and included within the outer nozzle 16, has a cross-section substantially equal to the cross-section of the outlet 80 of the inner nozzle 14. However, it should be noted that the cross-sections of the annular layer 88 and the cylindrical flow body 90 obtained at one point within the outer nozzle 16 along the longitudinal axis 82 may not be exactly equivalent to the cross-sections of the annular layer 88 and the cylindrical flow body 90 obtained at another corresponding point within the outer nozzle 16 along the longitudinal axis 82. The difference between the cross-sections may be due to the convergence and divergence of the outer nozzle 16, which correspondingly decrease and increase the cross-sectional area of ​​the outer nozzle 16. The difference between the cross sections may also be because the inner nozzle 14 interferes with the converging portion 110 and the diverging portion 112 of the outer nozzle 16 (e.g., Figure 4 (As shown in the diagram) downstream flow. Additionally, as described above, in some embodiments, the annular layer 88 and the cylindrical flow body 90 may be mixed due to the profile of the outer nozzle 16 downstream of the inlet 80 of the inner nozzle 14.

[0045] While the embodiments of the nozzle assembly 12 described above include an inner nozzle 14 and an outer nozzle 16, some embodiments may include more than two nozzles. For example, in Figure 6 The cross-sectional side view and Figure 7An embodiment of a nozzle assembly 12 having three nozzles is shown in the front view in FIG. 1. In the embodiment shown, the inner nozzle 14 and the outer nozzle 16 are both disposed within the third nozzle 120. The inner nozzle 14 can enter into a side 122 of the third nozzle 120 in the same manner as the inner nozzle enters into the side 78 of the outer nozzle 16. The outer nozzle 120 can be coupled to the same fuel source (e.g., fuel source 20) as the inner nozzle 14 and the outer nozzle 16. In the embodiment shown, each nozzle 14, 16, 120 can include a different type of fuel. For example, the inner nozzle 14 can include natural gas, the outer nozzle 16 can include propane, and the third nozzle 120 can include nitrogen, which can be used to "carry" contaminants, e.g., from combusting propane, away from the nozzle assembly 12 a distance after exiting the nozzle assembly 12, similar to that described above with respect to natural gas. As such, the fuel (e.g., after passing through a converging portion 126 and a diverging portion 128 of the third nozzle 120) exiting an outlet 124 of the third nozzle 120 can include a cylindrical flow body 90, an annular layer 88, and a second annular layer 130 radially adjacent to and surrounding the annular layer 88. As previously described, the cylindrical flow body 90, the annular layer 88, and the second annular layer 130 can each include a different type of fuel than one another. For example, the cylindrical flow body 90 can include natural gas, the annular layer 88 can include propane, and the second annular layer 130 can include nitrogen. In another embodiment, the cylindrical flow body 90 can include nitrogen, the annular layer 88 can include natural gas, and the second annular layer 130 can include propane. Any fuel or fluid can be used in any of the three nozzles depending on the desired flame effect 17.

[0046] It should be noted that while certain embodiments of nozzles are shown to include converging-diverging nozzles, in other embodiments, variations of nozzle types can be employed. For example, some nozzle types can simply be converging, or include substantially uniform (parallel) walls. In Figure 8 In FIG. 1, an embodiment of a nozzle assembly 12 is shown having an inner nozzle 14 and an outer nozzle 16, where the inner nozzle 14 and the outer nozzle 16 are converging nozzles. In other words, the inner nozzle 14 includes a converging portion 106, and the outer nozzle 16 includes a converging portion 110. In the embodiment shown, neither nozzle 14, 16 includes a diverging portion. The converging portions 106, 110 can accelerate the fuel through the respective nozzles 14, 16, and the fuel exits the nozzle assembly 12 through an outlet 81 of the outer nozzle 16. In the embodiment shown, the inner nozzle 14 and the outer nozzle 16 are coupled to the same fuel source (e.g., fuel source 20). In the embodiment shown, the inner nozzle 14 and the outer nozzle 16 each include a different type of fuel. For example, the inner nozzle 14 can include natural gas, and the outer nozzle 16 can include propane. In another embodiment, the inner nozzle 14 can include propane, and the outer nozzle 16 can include natural gas. In yet another embodiment, the inner nozzle 14 can include nitrogen, and the outer nozzle 16 can include natural gas. In yet another embodiment, the inner nozzle 14 can include propane, and the outer nozzle 16 can include nitrogen. In yet another embodiment, the inner nozzle 14 can include nitrogen, and the outer nozzle 16 can include propane. Any fuel or fluid can be used in either of the two nozzles depending on the desired flame effect 17. Figure 9In some embodiments, the nozzle assembly 12 is shown having an inner nozzle 14 and an outer nozzle 16, where the inner nozzle 14 and the outer nozzle 16 are substantially uniform (parallel) straight-walled nozzles. In other words, the inner portion 140 of the inner nozzle 14 is substantially cylindrical, where the inner surface 142 of the inner portion 140 of the inner nozzle 14 extends substantially in a direction 68 parallel to the longitudinal axis 90. Additionally, the inner portion 144 of the outer nozzle 16 is substantially cylindrical, where the inner surface 146 of the inner portion 144 of the outer nozzle 16 extends substantially in a direction 68 parallel to the longitudinal axis 90. Generally, the profile of the nozzles 14, 16, and accordingly the offset or offsets (e.g., offset distance 84) between the outlets 80, 81 of the nozzles 14, 16, can be selected depending on the desired flame effect 17. For example, if the desired flame effect 17 requires mixing of the gases from the inner nozzle 14 and the outer nozzle 16 within the nozzle assembly 12, then the appropriate profiles of the inner and outer nozzles 14, 16 and the appropriate offset distance 84 can be selected accordingly. If the desired flame effect 17 requires the gases from the inner nozzle 14 and the outer nozzle 16 to remain separate (e.g., by maintaining a substantially annular film 88 and cylindrical body flow 90 through the nozzle assembly 12), then the appropriate profiles of the inner and outer nozzles 14, 16 and the offset distance 84 can be selected accordingly.

[0047] It should also be noted that in other embodiments, the fluid passages of the nozzles can be coupled or attached together in some other manner. In Figure 10 One such embodiment is shown in Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the inner nozzle 14 and the outer nozzle 16 in a particular geometric configuration. In the embodiment shown, one or more fuel passages (e.g., passages 146) coupled to the fuel source 20 (not shown) can each carry a different type of fuel or fluid to the outer nozzle 16. Alternatively, each passage 146 can carry the same fuel or fluid to the outer nozzle 16. In the embodiment shown, an inner passage 147 is coupled to the inner nozzle 14 and supplies fuel or fluid from the fuel source 20 (not shown) to the inner nozzle 14. The nozzle assembly 12 can then deliver the fuel through each nozzle 14, 16 so that the fuel exits at the outlet 81 of the outer nozzle 16 and passes through the pilot 64 of the igniter 18 to produce the flame effect 17. Figure 11 A perspective cross-sectional view of an inner nozzle 14 and an outer nozzle 16 having similar features is shown.

[0048] Other embodiments can also exist. For example, in one embodiment, the nozzle assembly 12 can include only a single nozzle, where a fuel or fluid passage is coupled to the rear of the nozzle and a series of smaller fuel passages can enter into and terminate at the sidewall of the nozzle. Thus, fuel or fluid delivered through the smaller fuel passages can be injected directly from the sidewall into the nozzle, into the fuel or fluid flow sent through the nozzle from the rear of the injection.

[0049] As described above, any combustible or non-combustible gas can be used with any of the previously described nozzles 14, 16, 120, and the combustible or non- combustible gas selected from the fuel source for each nozzle 14, 16, 120 can be determined based on measurements related to environmental factors obtained by the sensors 38 or provided to the processor 30 by the internet system 37. The particular type of gas (e.g., fuel) accelerated through each nozzle 14, 16, 120 can include desirable characteristics based on measurements obtained by the sensors 36 and / or provided by the internet systems 38, 40. For example, as previously described, propane can be selected for one of the nozzles 14, 16, 120 to provide a visual flame effect 17 that can be seen during the day. Natural gas can be selected for one of the nozzles 14, 16, 120 due to considerations related to cleanliness and / or cost. In particular, natural gas can be selected for use at night because the burning natural gas is generally visible in the dark and is more cost effective and clean than propane, which is generally visible during the day and at night. Additionally, as previously described, the mass flow rate (and, thus, the pressure) of any fuel traveling through any of the nozzles 14, 16, 120 can be increased or decreased due to actions resulting from outputs from the controller 28 to one or more system actuators (e.g., control valves).

[0050] It should be noted that certain elements in the previously shown embodiments can include variations that have not been described. For example, Figure 12 The schematic diagrams shown in FIGS. 15-17 are provided to provide a basic illustration of the system 10 and the nozzle assembly 12. In the illustrated embodiments, multiple configurations 148 of the nozzle assembly 12 are shown having nested nozzles with corresponding gas flow paths, which are indicated by arrows 149. In some embodiments, as indicated by the first configuration 150, two nozzles can be in a substantially concentric orientation 150, and the outlet of the outer nozzle can extend further along the gas flow path 149 than the outlet of the inner nozzle. In other embodiments, as generally indicated by the second orientation 152, three or more nozzles can be in a substantially concentric orientation, and each respective nozzle from the second innermost nozzle to the outermost nozzle can have an outlet along which the gas flow path 149 extends further than the outlet of the nozzle or nozzles nested within. In still other embodiments, as generally indicated by the third orientation 154, multiple nozzles can be nested within each other, and certain nozzles can have aligned outlets. In yet other embodiments, the nozzles nested within the nozzles can have outlets that extend further along the gas flow path 149 than the nozzles in which they are nested. Any orientation and number of nested nozzles can be used with the nozzle assembly 12 in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0051] In some embodiments, each nozzle can include converging and diverging portions as previously discussed to accelerate the hot gas passing through the particular nozzle. However, other embodiments can include nozzles having only converging portions, nozzles having only diverging portions, nozzles having only straight wall (e.g., substantially cylindrical) portions, or some other combination of the described portions. Also, while there is an offset between the outlets of the nested nozzles in the illustrated embodiment, in some embodiments the nozzle outlets can be substantially aligned. For example, two inner nozzles can have aligned outlets, but still be offset relative to the outermost nozzle, which has an outlet that extends past the outlets of the innermost nozzles.

[0052] Additionally, the nozzles can be configured to receive inserts such that the inserts can be manually inserted into any of the nozzles to redefine the nozzle. For example, a nozzle having converging and diverging portions can receive an insert having only a converging portion to temporarily redefine the nozzle as a nozzle having only a converging portion based on a desired flame effect 17. The nozzle with the insert can be used until it is determined that the desired flame effect 17 can benefit from a nozzle having both converging and diverging portions, at which time the insert can be removed. It should be noted that the initial configuration of the nozzle can include only a converging portion or both a converging portion and a diverging portion, and the insert can include only a converging portion or both a converging portion and a diverging portion. Additionally, the insert can include the same type of portions (e.g., converging and / or diverging) as the initial nozzle, but the dimensions (e.g., cross-sectional area, slope) of the portions can differ depending on the insert, and in some circumstances (e.g., based on environmental factors) can enhance the flame effect 17 in some respect. Still additionally, the initial nozzle, the insert, or both can include straight wall (e.g., substantially cylindrical) portions as previously described. Also, a plurality of different nozzles and / or nozzle inserts can be provided as a nozzle set that can be alternately used or not used by redirecting the fuel flow or manipulating the nozzle set. In other words, the automated controller 28 can place different nozzles and / or nozzle inserts into the nozzle assembly 12 by adjusting, in addition to determining the appropriate fuel source for each nozzle and the appropriate pressure for each fuel source as previously described, the appropriate nozzle and / or insert based on environmental factors received by the automated controller 28. In some embodiments, a plurality of controllers can be used, where each controller controls one or more of the components described above, and each controller can receive the same or different processor instructions, where each processor receives measurements from the same or different sensors and / or internet systems.

[0053] Continuing Figure 12The automatic controller 28 can include or be coupled to one or more inputs 156. The inputs 156 can include measurements of environmental factors measured by the sensors 38 and values of environmental factors provided by the internet system 37. The environmental factors can include ambient brightness, flame brightness, ambient pollution, flame soot levels, weather, wind conditions, time of day, and / or humidity. Additionally, the inputs 156 can be analog and / or digital inputs.

[0054] The automatic controller 28 can also include or be coupled to one or more actuators 158, where the automatic controller 28 provides instructions to the actuators 158 for adjusting the actuators 158. The actuators 158 can include valves, regulators, pumps, igniters, or other structures for actuating portions of the system 10. The actuators 158 can include actuators 158 upstream of the nozzle assembly 12 and actuators 158 downstream of the nozzle assembly 12. For example, upstream of the nozzle assembly 12, the actuators 158 can include a rotator configured to rotate the fuel source 20 about a bearing, where the bearing is physically coupled to two or more fuel tanks of the fuel source 20. As the fuel source 20 rotates about the bearing, one of the two or more fuel tanks of the fuel source 20 can be fluidly coupled to a pipe leading to one of the nozzles. In other embodiments, different types of actuators 158 can be used to couple the appropriate fuel type to the appropriate nozzle. Additionally, upstream of the nozzle assembly 12, the actuators 158 can include a regulating device to adjust the pressure (e.g., supply pressure) of the type of fuel being delivered to the appropriate nozzle. For example, the actuators 158 can include a pump configured to pump the fuel to the nozzles at certain pressures. Other actuators 158 can be included to actuate other portions of the system 10 upstream of the nozzle assembly 12 in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0055] Downstream of the nozzle assembly 12, one of the actuators 158 can be a fan configured to blow the flame effect 17 upwards and / or at an angle such that the soot produced by the flame effect 17 is blown away from the system 10 and spread over a distance as opposed to being concentrated in one place near the system 10. In some embodiments, the ignition structure 18 can be considered one of the actuators 158, and the automatic controller 28 can control the ignition structure 18 to determine when to use the ignition structure 18. For example, in one embodiment, the ignition structure 18 is a flame, where the fuel delivered through the nozzle assembly 12 is delivered through the flame. The automatic controller 28 can control when the ignition structure 18 has a flame and when the ignition structure 18 does not have a flame. Additionally, one of the actuators 158 downstream of the nozzle assembly 12 can include a rotator configured to rotate a set of nozzles or nozzle inserts about a bearing such that the appropriate nozzle or nozzle insert can be placed into the nozzle assembly 12 as previously described. Other actuators 158 can be included to actuate other portions of the system 10 downstream of the nozzle assembly 12 in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0056] Turning now to Figure 13 , a process flow diagram illustrating a method 160 of operating the system 10 is shown. The method 160 includes determining (block 162) environmental factors surrounding the nozzle assembly 12. As previously described, determining environmental factors surrounding the nozzle assembly 12 can include measuring the environmental factors by the sensors 38 and providing the measurements to the automated controller 28. Additionally, the internet system 37 can be used to provide values of the environmental factors to the automated controller 28. The method 160 also includes fluidically coupling (block 164) the appropriate fuel type or types from the fuel source 20 to each of the inner and outer nozzles 14, 16 based on the environmental factors received by the automated controller 28. Additionally, the method 160 includes accelerating or delivering (block 166) the fuel through the nozzles 14, 16 of the nozzle assembly 12 at appropriate respective pressures determined and adjusted by the automated controller 28 based on the environmental factors (e.g., by automatically controlling control valves, regulators, pumps). Still additionally, the method 160 includes delivering (block 168) the fuel through the ignition structure 18 (e.g., flame) to produce the flame effect 17.

[0057] While only certain features of the application have been illustrated and described, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it is to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A system for producing a flame effect, comprising: A fuel source having two or more different types of fuel; as well as Nozzle assembly, comprising: An external nozzle configured to receive a first fuel source; and An inner nozzle configured to receive a second fuel from the fuel source, wherein at least a portion of the inner nozzle is nested within at least a portion of the outer nozzle; and An ignition structure configured to receive the first fuel, the second fuel, or both, to produce a flame effect; At least one input device configured to determine environmental factors of the environment in which the nozzle assembly is disposed; and An automatic controller configured to receive data representing the environmental factors determined by the at least one input device, and based on the data to operate one or more actuators to supply the first fuel to the outer nozzle and the second fuel to the inner nozzle, wherein the automatic controller is configured to operate the one or more actuators to: Adjust the first supply pressure of the first fuel; and Adjust the second supply pressure of the second fuel. The one or more actuators operate to actuate the ignition structure of the system. The at least one input device includes a sensor configured to measure the environmental factor, a communication system configured to supply data representing the environmental factor, or a combination thereof. Wherein, the two or more different types of fuels include two or more of the following: propane, natural gas, butane, ethane, hydrogen, or other combustible materials that exist in a vapor state at standard temperature and pressure; The inner nozzle enters the sidewall of the outer nozzle at an angle between 20 and 70 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the outer nozzle, and the inner nozzle includes a curved portion located within the outer nozzle, such that the inner nozzle is curved within the outer nozzle to be concentrically oriented relative to the outer nozzle. The environmental factors include ambient brightness, flame brightness, weather, time, humidity, wind conditions, or combinations thereof; Wherein, each of the outer nozzle and the inner nozzle is a converging-diverging nozzle including a converging portion and a diverging portion; The outlet of the inner nozzle is offset relative to the outlet of the outer nozzle along the longitudinal axis by an offset distance, which corresponds to the common length of the converging and diverging portions of the outer nozzle.

2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fuel source is configured to supply the first fuel at a first pressure and the second fuel at a second pressure different from the first pressure.

3. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first fuel supplied to the outer nozzle comprises propane, and the second fuel supplied to the inner nozzle comprises natural gas.

4. A system for producing a flame effect, comprising: A nozzle assembly configured to produce a flame effect visible from the outside of the system; and An automatic controller configured to adjust a fuel source based at least in part on environmental factors surrounding the system to control the fluid flow rate from the fuel source to the first and second nozzles of the nozzle assembly; and The second nozzle includes a longitudinal axis extending through a flow path of the second nozzle, and the first nozzle enters the sidewall of the second nozzle at an angle between 20 and 70 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the second nozzle, and the first nozzle includes a bend located within the second nozzle such that the first nozzle is bends within the second nozzle to be concentrically oriented relative to the second nozzle. The environmental factors include ambient brightness, flame brightness, weather, time, humidity, wind conditions, or combinations thereof; Wherein, each of the first nozzle and the second nozzle is a converging-diverging nozzle including a converging portion and a diverging portion; Wherein, the outlet of the first nozzle is offset relative to the outlet of the second nozzle along the longitudinal axis by an offset distance, the offset distance corresponding to the common length of the converging and diverging portions of the second nozzle.

5. The system according to claim 4, characterized in that, At least a portion of the first nozzle is disposed within at least a portion of the second nozzle such that the outer surface of the wall defining an additional flow path of the first nozzle contacts the flow path of the second nozzle.

6. The system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The portion of the first nozzle is axially symmetrical, planarly symmetrical, or both of the portion of the second nozzle.

7. The system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The fuel source includes two or more different types of fuel, wherein the automatic controller is configured to instruct a first type of fuel among the two or more different types of fuel to be fluidly connected to the first nozzle and a second type of fuel among the two or more different types of fuel to be fluidly connected to the second nozzle, wherein the first type of fuel, the second type of fuel, or both are determined by the automatic controller based on environmental factors surrounding the system.

8. The system according to claim 4, characterized in that, Includes sensors configured to measure the environmental factors and provide the measurement results to the automatic controller, wherein the automatic controller is configured to adjust the fuel source based on the measurement results received from the sensors.

9. The system according to claim 4, characterized in that, This includes an internet system configured to provide values ​​of the environmental factors to the automatic controller, wherein the automatic controller is configured to adjust the fuel source based on the values ​​received from the internet system.

10. The system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The fuel source includes two or more different types of fuel, including: propane, natural gas, butane, ethane, hydrogen, or other combustible materials that exist in a vapor state at standard temperature and pressure.

11. A system for producing a flame effect, comprising: A nozzle assembly configured to allow two or more fluids to flow through the nozzle assembly to facilitate the generation of a flame effect from the outlet of the nozzle assembly, the nozzle assembly including a first nozzle and a second nozzle. At least one input device configured to determine environmental factors of the environment in which the nozzle assembly is disposed; and An automatic controller configured to receive data representing the environmental factors determined by the at least one input device, and to adjust a fluid source using one or more actuators based on the environmental factors surrounding the system to control the flow rates of two or more fluids from the fluid source to the nozzle assembly, wherein the automatic controller is configured to operate the one or more actuators to: Adjust the first supply pressure of the first fluid; and Adjust the second supply pressure of the second fluid. The one or more actuators operate to actuate the ignition structure of the system. The at least one input device includes a sensor configured to measure the environmental factor, a communication system configured to supply data representing the environmental factor, or a combination thereof. Wherein, the two or more fluids include two or more of the following: propane, natural gas, butane, ethane, hydrogen, or other combustible materials that exist in a vapor state at standard temperature and pressure; Wherein, the first nozzle enters the sidewall of the second nozzle at an angle between 20 and 70 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the second nozzle, and wherein the first nozzle includes a curved portion located within the second nozzle, such that the first nozzle is curved within the second nozzle to be concentrically oriented relative to the second nozzle; The environmental factors include ambient brightness, flame brightness, weather, time, humidity, wind conditions, or combinations thereof; Wherein, each of the first nozzle and the second nozzle is a converging-diverging nozzle including a converging portion and a diverging portion; Wherein, the outlet of the first nozzle is offset relative to the outlet of the second nozzle along the longitudinal axis by an offset distance, the offset distance corresponding to the common length of the converging and diverging portions of the second nozzle.

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