Acoustic Spark Detection Using Igniter Rod Sound Waves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spark ignition systems in burners lack effective detection mechanisms for electrical sparks, leading to potential no-start conditions and dangerous situations when raw fuel is introduced, as they fail to reliably determine spark presence before fuel ignition.
Innovation Solution
A spark detection system utilizing an acoustic sensor and pulse-echo generator to analyze the time of flight of spark sound waves through an igniter rod, providing real-time feedback on spark presence and generating signals for successful or unsuccessful sparks, and calibrating based on temperature adjustments to ensure accurate detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional spark ignition systems are used without detection mechanisms, then the system structure remains simple, but the reliability of spark detection is poor leading to dangerous no-start conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or visual spark detection methods with an acoustic detection system. An acoustic sensor detects the sound wave generated by the electrical spark itself, converting acoustic energy to electrical signals for analysis. This substitution provides reliable, automated detection without complex mechanical moving parts, resolving the contradiction between reliability and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the spark's own sound wave as the detection signal, eliminating the need for separate detection mechanisms. The electrical spark generates an acoustic signal that is directly captured by the acoustic sensor, allowing the spark to serve both its ignition function and its own detection function. This self-service approach improves reliability while minimizing additional system complexity.
2Measurement precision
If acoustic detection is implemented to detect spark presence, then spark detection accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional sensors and calibration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the acoustic sensor continuously monitors for spark sound waves, and the processor analyzes the detected signals to determine spark presence. The system provides feedback through indicators (visual, audible, or electronic) to signal whether a spark was detected. This feedback loop enables accurate, real-time spark detection while using straightforward signal processing to manage system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates temperature compensation by adjusting the expected acoustic signal parameters based on the igniter rod temperature. A temperature sensor monitors the rod temperature, and the processor uses this information to adjust detection thresholds and signal characteristics. This parameter adjustment maintains high detection accuracy across varying operating conditions without requiring complex additional hardware.
3Measurement precision
If temperature calibration is performed to maintain detection accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but the time required for calibration and operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs temperature compensation calculations in real-time during normal operation rather than requiring separate calibration steps. The temperature sensor continuously monitors igniter rod temperature, and the processor automatically adjusts detection parameters based on current temperature conditions. This preliminary and continuous adjustment eliminates time-consuming calibration procedures while maintaining high detection accuracy throughout operation.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If real-time spark detection is implemented, then safety against raw fuel introduction is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses acoustic detection to sense the spark, replacing complex mechanical detection systems. The acoustic sensor captures the sound wave from the electrical spark, and simple signal processing determines whether ignition occurred. This approach provides reliable safety detection with minimal mechanical complexity, directly addressing the harmful effect of undetected no-start conditions while keeping the system simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The spark's own acoustic signal is used for safety detection, eliminating the need for separate safety monitoring systems. The electrical spark generates an audible signal that the acoustic sensor detects, allowing the spark to provide both its ignition function and safety verification function. This self-service mechanism improves safety against raw fuel introduction while avoiding additional complex safety system components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively detects spark presence and absence, preventing dangerous fuel ignition by providing immediate feedback for spark generator maintenance and ensuring safe operation by reducing the risk of faulty spark-related hazards.
Implementation Method 1
an acoustic sensor adapted to sense a spark sound wave generated by an electrical spark, the spark sound wave propagating through an igniter rod
Implementation Method 2
a pulse-echo generator for generating a pulse sound wave... detects a reflected pulse sound wave based on the pulse sound wave reflecting off of a second end of the igniter rod
Implementation Method 3
determine the time of flight for the spark sound wave to travel through the igniter rod to the acoustic sensor... calculate a spark detector adjustment based on a time of flight between the pulse sound wave and the reflected pulse sound wave
Data Source
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AI summary
A spark detector indicates the presence of a spark by analyzing sound waves generated when an electrical spark is produced from an electrical spark generator located on an igniter rod. The spark detector includes an acoustic sensor that is in communication with the igniter rod to determine the time for the spark sound wave to travel through the igniter rod to the acoustic sensor. If a spark is not detected, the spark detector may output a signal indicating at least one of (i) the spark was not detected, (ii) to replace the electrical spark generator immediately, or (iii) replace the electrical spark generator soon such as at the next scheduled maintenance. Furthermore, the spark detector may be calibrated based on current temperature of the igniter rod based upon time of propagation of a pulse sound wave, generated by a pulse-echo generator, to reflect off an end of the igniter rod.