Embedded electronic firework igniter

Abstract

The invention discloses a blasting fuse-free ignition system for fireworks. There is provided an igniter module insertable into a firework and comprising: a first end having an interface adapted to reside on an outer surface of the firework for receiving a plug; a set of electrical contacts adapted to receive power from the plug; a heating element coupled to the electrical contact and adapted to heat in response to received power; and a cavity adjacent the heating element, the cavity containing a pyrotechnic material adapted to fire in response to heating by the heating element.

Description

[0001] Priority requirements

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 578,035, filed August 22, 2023, and U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 662,047, filed May 13, 2024, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Traditionally, electronic fireworks ignition systems utilize a pair of wires with clamp-on fasteners or similar devices (e.g., claw igniters) that are attached to the firework's fuse. In operation, the ignition system outputs a charge that is transferred through the wires to a high-resistance element within the fastener, which is then heated and ignites the firework's fuse. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Several aspects of the present invention provide an igniter module that can be inserted into fireworks, the igniter module eliminating the need for a fuse and a catch.

[0005] In one aspect, the igniter module includes: a first end having an interface configured to be exposed on the outer surface of the firework, the interface being configured to receive a plug; a set of electrical contacts adapted to receive current from the plug; a heating element coupled to the electrical contacts and adapted to convert electrical energy into heat energy in response to the received current; and a second end having an ignition element positioned adjacent to the heating element, the ignition element comprising pyrotechnic material adapted to ignite in response to heat generated by the heating element.

[0006] In other aspects, the present invention includes a firework in which an igniter module is embedded. The firework includes: an igniter module insertable into the firework, the igniter module having: a first end having an interface configured to expose an outer surface of the firework and configured to receive a plug; a set of electrical contacts adapted to receive current from the plug; a heating element coupled to the electrical contacts and adapted to convert electrical energy into heat energy in response to the received current; and a second end having an ignition element positioned adjacent to the heating element, the ignition element comprising pyrotechnic material adapted to ignite in response to heat generated by the heating element.

[0007] In another aspect, an igniter module is provided that can be inserted into fireworks, the igniter module comprising: a first end having an interface configured to expose the outer surface of the fireworks and configured to receive a plug; a set of electrical contacts adapted to receive current from the plug; a second end having a heating element coupled to the electrical contacts and adapted to generate heat in response to receiving current; and wherein the heating element is configured to directly ignite pyrotechnic material in the fireworks.

[0008] In other respects, the present invention includes an ignition system comprising: an ignition module; a set of wires, each wire being connectable at one end to the ignition module and having a plug at the opposite end; and a set of fireworks, in which an igniter module is embedded. Attached Figure Description

[0009] These and other features of this disclosure will become more readily apparent from the following detailed description of various aspects of this disclosure in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 An igniter module, fireworks, and plug are shown according to an embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2 A front view of a firework according to an embodiment, wherein an igniter module is installed, is shown.

[0011] Figure 3 An example is shown. Figure 2 A side view of the fireworks, showing the plug and ignition module connected to the igniter module.

[0012] Figure 4 An isometric view of an igniter module according to an embodiment is shown, illustrating details of the connection interface.

[0013] Figure 5 An example is shown. Figure 4 A side sectional view of the ignition module.

[0014] Figure 6 An example is shown. Figure 4 Another perspective view of the ignition module.

[0015] Figure 7 An isometric view of an alternative igniter module according to an embodiment is shown.

[0016] Figure 8 An alternative igniter module installed in fireworks according to an embodiment is shown.

[0017] Figure 9Another alternative igniter module system according to an embodiment is shown.

[0018] Figure 10a and Figure 10b This illustrates another alternative embodiment of the igniter module.

[0019] The accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. They are merely schematic representations and not intended to depict specific parameters of the present disclosure. The drawings are only used to describe typical embodiments of the present disclosure and should not be considered as limiting the scope of the disclosure. In the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same elements. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Various aspects of this disclosure include a wireless igniter system for fireworks. In one embodiment, the system includes an igniter module that can be inserted through the wall or surface of a fireworks and replace or enhance a conventional fuse. The igniter module typically includes: (1) a first end configured to be exposed on the outer surface or wall of the fireworks and including a connection interface; (2) a second end inserted into the fireworks, close to the pyrotechnic material of the fireworks; and (3) an internal electric igniter configured to ignite the pyrotechnic material of the fireworks in response to an electrical signal received via the connection interface. The connection interface is configured to receive a plug or the like for connecting wires to the electric igniter within the igniter module.

[0021] In various embodiments, the igniter module may be manufactured as part of the firework itself or integrated into the wall of the firework itself, for example, as a cap, as the lower part of the firework, etc.

[0022] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of an igniter module 10 is shown, which is configured to be inserted into a firework 12 at an entry point 16 (e.g., in a pre-drilled hole, notched area, opening, or other type of entry point). It is conceivable that the igniter module 10 can be inserted into the cardboard wall of the firework 12 during or after the manufacture of the firework (e.g., by a third party or user). Furthermore, a specific location of the entry point 16 on the surface of the firework 12 can be selected to most effectively ensure the ignition of the firework 12.

[0023] In this embodiment, the igniter module 10 includes a threaded shaft 18, a hexagonal bolt head 20, a connection interface 22, and an ignition element 24. The threaded shaft 18 and the hexagonal bolt head 20 are configured to allow the igniter module 10 to be easily screwed into the firework 12, for example, by turning the hexagonal bolt head 20 with a tool or by hand. With the igniter module 10 inserted into the firework 12, the plug 14 can be inserted into the interface 22 to deliver charge through the wire 15 and ignite the firework 12 with the ignition element 24.

[0024] Figure 2 A front view of the igniter module 10 inserted into the firework 12 is shown, wherein the connection interface 22 is exposed on the surface of the firework 12. Figure 3 A side view of the igniter module 10 installed in the firework 12 is shown. Figure 3 The diagram also shows a plug 14, a wire 15, and an ignition module 30 installed in interface 22 (not shown). As shown, the wire 15 is configured to insert into the ignition module 30 at one end and into the igniter module 10 / firework 12 at the other end. The ignition module 30 may include, for example, multiple ports for connecting to multiple fireworks (not shown) and may be remotely controlled by an app running on a smart device or some other type of main control system used in industry. When instructed, the ignition module 30 supplies current to the igniter module 10 through the wire 15, and the igniter module 10 ignites the firework 12.

[0025] Figures 4 to 6 Various views of the igniter module 10 are shown. In this embodiment, the igniter module 10 is manufactured as a hexagonal bolt structure. Figure 4 An isometric view of the igniter module 10 is shown, illustrating a connection interface 22 with two electrical contacts, in which the exposed metal "male" pin 32 is configured to mate with a female socket in the plug 14. In some embodiments, the plug 14 may be releasably connected to the interface 22, allowing it to be easily installed and removed, for example, by pressing a spring-loaded button. In other methods, the plug 14 may be mechanically snapped or screwed into the interface 22 in a predetermined orientation to lock it in place. In other respects, non-mechanical electrical contacts, such as magnetic connections, may be utilized.

[0026] It is understood that any interface and plug structure can be used to form a stable electrical connection with a set (i.e., one or more) of electrical contacts in the ignition module. For example, in an alternative embodiment, a male pin can be implemented within plug 14, while a female socket can be implemented within interface 22. In another embodiment, instead of using a pin and socket structure, the electrical connection can be achieved using metal contacts aligned on each of plug 14 and interface 22. In other embodiments, the electrical connection can be achieved through inductive connection. Therefore, it is understood that any system for providing an electrical connection between plug 14 and interface 22 can be used.

[0027] Figure 5 A side sectional view of module 10 is shown. Figure 6An isometric view of the ignition element 24 of module 10 is shown. As shown, a metal pin 32 (i.e., an electrical contact) extends from interface 22 through module 10 and contacts a heating element 36, such as a coiled tungsten filament. In one embodiment, the two ends of the coiled tungsten filament are molded into a plastic bolt structure, with each end of the filament contacting the second end of the corresponding pin 32. In this embodiment, the ignition element 24 includes a bowl-shaped cavity 34 with an opening 38 exposed to the central portion of the heating element 36. The cavity 34 is filled with pyrotechnic material (not shown), such as putty-like black powder. When an electric current passes through the metal pin 32, the heating element 36 (e.g., the tungsten filament) is heated to an incandescent state, thereby igniting the pyrotechnic material. The ignited pyrotechnic material then ignites and triggers the initial effect of the fireworks.

[0028] It should be understood that although ignition element 24 is described as using a bowl-shaped cavity containing pyrotechnic material, alternative embodiments of ignition element 24 may also be used. For example, a container (e.g., a bag) of pyrotechnic material such as gunpowder may be attached to the end of module 10, close to heating element 36. In other cases, a fuse may be integrated into the end of module 10, such as a rope or other material coated with a dry slurry of black powder and glue, which may be ignited by heating element 36. In still other cases, some or all of the materials forming module 10 may be made of an ignitable material that may be ignited by heating element 36.

[0029] Figure 7 An alternative structure for the igniter module 11 is shown, wherein the ignition element 24 includes a tubular cavity 40 exposed to the heating element 36. (Compared to...) Figures 4 to 6 The embodiment shown is similar, with pin 32 extending from interface 22 through the module to heating element 36. Tubular cavity 40 also contains pyrotechnic material (not shown), which ignites when the heating element heats up in response to an electric current.

[0030] Figure 8An alternative structure for the interface end of the igniter module 13, shown in the figure, is mounted in a firework. In this embodiment, instead of a hex bolt head, a round head with a recessed surface is used, in this case, a Phillips head recess 44 adapted to receive a special tool (e.g., a screwdriver) for rotating and inserting into the module 10. It should be understood that the described hex bolt head 20 and Phillips head recess 44 are not intended to be limiting, and other structures can be used. For example, while the described embodiment allows the module 10 to be “screwed” into the firework with a tool, it should be understood that the module 10 can include any structure or shape to support or facilitate insertion into the firework. Other such constructions may include, for example, rivets using a rivet gun, heads with pin holes (which can receive tools for rotation), geometric heads with more or fewer than six sides, spherical heads, shaped heads, concave or convex head profiles, tapered shafts, non-tapered shafts, shafts with pointed or pointed tips, shafts with toggle wings or anchors, and heads with grooves (grooves that support hand or machine pressure), etc.

[0031] Furthermore, although the illustrative embodiment of the igniter module 10 can be formed of plastic as a bolt, it should be understood that other materials and structures can also be used. For example, the module 10 can be formed of glass, paper, wood, silicone, fiber, plant-based material, composite material, metal, etc. Furthermore, without using bolts, the outer surface of the module 10 can be formed as a pointed conical profile or other profile suitable for penetrating the wall or surface of the fireworks and firmly holding the module 10 in place. In some aspects, the fireworks can have small guide holes formed in the wall or surface to facilitate insertion of the module 10. In other aspects, the module 10 can be configured to pierce the wall or surface of the fireworks without guide holes. In some embodiments, the interface 22 may include a removable cover (e.g., a piece of tape or plastic shield) to protect the module 10 before use. In other embodiments, the fireworks 12 may be included at the entry point 16 ( Figure 1 A removable cover (such as a piece of tape or a plastic shield) is provided on the firework to protect it before the module 10 is inserted.

[0032] Figure 9A top view of an alternative embodiment of an igniter module 52 installed in fireworks 50 is shown. In this embodiment, the igniter module 52 itself does not contain pyrotechnic material, but is configured to directly ignite the pyrotechnic material 56 in fireworks 50. Similar to the embodiment described above, the igniter module 52 includes an interface 62 with metal contacts 60 and receives a plug 54 connected to an ignition module 66 via a pair of wires 64. In this case, the heating element 58 includes an exposed area that directly contacts (or is sufficiently close to) the pyrotechnic material 56. In this embodiment, when electricity from the ignition module 66 causes the heating element 58 to heat up, the heating element 58 directly ignites fireworks 50.

[0033] Figure 10a and Figure 10b An embodiment of an alternative igniter module 72 is shown. In this embodiment, the igniter module 72 (such as...) Figure 10a The device (shown) is configured to be attached to the bottom of the firework 70, for example, using adhesive, clips, a lip, threads, etc. The igniter module 72 can be attached to the firework 70 during or after the firework manufacturing process. The igniter module 72 may, for example, include a plastic container fully integrated with an ignition system similar to module 10, which includes, for example, metal electrodes, a heating element (e.g., a coil), and an ignition element (e.g., pyrotechnic material). Furthermore, the igniter module 72 includes an interface 74, i.e., a universal socket, adapted to receive a wired plug 76, such as... Figure 10b As shown. When the wired plug 76 is inserted into the interface 74 and current flows from the ignition module through the interface 74, the heating element ignites the pyrotechnic material in the module 72, which then ignites the firework 70. Although the module 72 is shown as a cylindrical device corresponding to the bottom of the firework 70, it should be understood that the module 72 can include any shape or size that can be easily attached to the outer surface of the firework 70. It should also be understood that the module 72 can be made of any suitable one or more materials, such as cardboard, glass, paper, wood, silicone, fiber, plant-based material, composite material, metal, etc. Furthermore, it should be understood that the interface area 78 of the module 72 (i.e., where the module 72 is attached to the firework 70) can be exposed or include a thin film material to allow the pyrotechnic material contained therein to explode directionally (e.g., upwards) and ignite the firework 70.

[0034] Note that while the described embodiments typically involve tungsten filaments or similar materials to ignite gunpowder, the ignition of fireworks (either via pyrotechnic materials within the module or by direct ignition) can be achieved using any type of heating element capable of converting electrical energy into heat. For example, a device that generates an electric or plasma arc can be used. Arc discharge is a known technique, for example, used in welding and spark plugs.

[0035] This novel igniter system significantly simplifies the setup and ignition process for fireworks displays, while improving safety by minimizing direct interaction with the fireworks. The system also eliminates the need to attach the catch to the fuse, which can be time-consuming and error-prone.

[0036] In some embodiments, fireworks incorporating the igniter modules described herein may be packaged together with an ignition system, which may include, for example, one or more ignition modules, wires / plugs, and a main controller and / or downloadable software for creating fireworks displays from computer equipment, smartphones, etc.

[0037] In other embodiments, the igniter module may include additional components to further enhance the fireworks display, such as LEDs, dedicated circuitry with a timing system, audio outputs (e.g., whistles, beeps, or "fire in the hole"), etc.

[0038] For purposes of illustration and description, the foregoing description of various aspects of this disclosure has been presented. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit this disclosure to the precise form disclosed, and it will be apparent that many modifications and variations are possible. Such modifications and variations, which will be obvious to those skilled in the art, are included within the scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An igniter module, the igniter module being insertable into a firework, the igniter module comprising: A first end, the first end having an interface configured to be exposed on the outer surface of the firework, the interface being configured to receive a plug; A set of electrical contacts adapted to receive current from the plug; A heating element, the heating element being connected to the electrical contact and adapted to convert electrical energy into heat energy in response to receiving a current; and The second end has an ignition element adjacent to the heating element, the ignition element comprising pyrotechnic material adapted to ignite in response to heat energy generated by the heating element.

2. The igniter module according to claim 1, wherein, The shaft of the igniter module is threaded.

3. The igniter module according to claim 2, wherein, The first end is configured to receive a tool for rotating the igniter module and inserting the igniter module into the firework.

4. The igniter module according to claim 3, wherein, The first end includes a hexagonal bolt structure.

5. The igniter module according to claim 3, wherein, The first end includes a recessed surface.

6. The igniter module according to claim 1, wherein, The ignition element includes a bowl-shaped cavity having a hole positioned close to the heating element.

7. The igniter module according to claim 1, wherein, The electrical contacts include a pair of metal pins.

8. The igniter module according to claim 1, wherein, The heating element includes one of the following: a tungsten filament; and a device configured to generate an electric arc.

9. The igniter module according to claim 1, wherein, The pyrotechnic materials include putty or gunpowder.

10. A firework, said firework comprising: An igniter module that can be inserted into fireworks, the igniter module having: A first end, the first end having an interface configured to be exposed on the outer surface of the firework, the interface being configured to receive a plug; A set of electrical contacts adapted to receive current from the plug; A heating element, the heating element being connected to the electrical contact and adapted to convert electrical energy into heat energy in response to receiving a current; and The second end has an ignition element positioned adjacent to the heating element, the ignition element comprising pyrotechnic material adapted to ignite in response to heat generated by the heating element.

11. The fireworks according to claim 10, wherein, The shaft of the igniter module is threaded.

12. The fireworks according to claim 11, wherein, The first end is configured to receive a tool for rotating the igniter module and inserting the igniter module into the firework.

13. The fireworks according to claim 12, wherein, The first end includes a hexagonal bolt structure.

14. The fireworks according to claim 12, wherein, The first end includes a recessed surface.

15. The fireworks according to claim 10, wherein, The ignition element includes a bowl-shaped cavity having a hole positioned close to the heating element.

16. The fireworks according to claim 10, wherein, The electrical contacts include a pair of metal pins.

17. The fireworks according to claim 10, wherein, The heating element includes one of the following: a tungsten filament; and a device configured to generate an electric arc.

18. The fireworks according to claim 10, wherein, The pyrotechnic materials include putty or gunpowder.

19. An igniter module, the igniter module being insertable into a firework, the igniter module comprising: A first end, the first end having an interface configured to be exposed on the outer surface of the firework, the interface being configured to receive a plug; A set of electrical contacts adapted to receive current from the plug; The second end has a heating element connected to the electrical contact and adapted to generate heat in response to receiving a current. and The heating element is configured to directly ignite the pyrotechnic material in the fireworks.

20. The igniter module according to claim 19, wherein, The shaft of the igniter module is threaded.

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