Analog Flame Display Control Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for controlling fire displays responsive to music are complex and expensive, requiring digital components and software, making them unsuitable for simpler and less costly applications.
Innovation Solution
An analog-based system comprising a base unit controller circuit generating an analog control signal, distributed via a control wire to flame display units with proportional valves, allowing for synchronized control of flame height and size in response to audio input signals, using a completely analog circuit without microprocessors or digital integrated circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If digital signal processors and software are used to control flame displays responsive to music, then the audio-visual experience is enhanced, but the system complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex digital electronic systems with an analog mechanical system. Specifically, it uses a phonograph record (mechanical storage) instead of digital software, and a mechanical amplifier system instead of digital signal processors. The audio signal from the phonograph directly modulates the flame height through an analog control circuit, eliminating the need for microprocessors and digital components while achieving music-responsive flame display.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive analog components such as a phonograph record, basic amplifier circuitry, and simple control valves instead of expensive digital signal processors and software licenses. The system uses readily available consumer electronics components that are far less costly than professional digital fire control systems, making the technology accessible for home entertainment applications.
2Manufacturing precision
If digital components and software are used to control fire displays, then precise control is achieved, but the manufacturing cost and component expense increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes expensive digital control components with inexpensive analog equivalents. The phonograph record player and basic amplifier circuit provide sufficient control precision for flame modulation without requiring microprocessors, digital-to-analog converters, or software licensing fees. The analog voltage output from the amplifier directly controls the flame height through a simple control valve.
Solution Approach 2:
The system controls flame height by varying the analog voltage parameter from the amplifier output. This continuous voltage parameter directly modulates the control valve opening, providing smooth and precise flame height adjustment. The analog nature of the signal allows for continuous variation without the quantization effects of digital systems, achieving natural-looking flame responses to music.
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
Enables a cost-effective and efficient audio-visual experience by controlling multiple flame display units with a single base unit, providing synchronized and varied flame responses to audio inputs without the need for expensive digital components, while ensuring safety through flame detection and pilot light functions.
Implementation Method 1
the flame display unit including a proportional valve to control flow of fuel from the fuel source so as to controllably vary a height of the open flame responsive to the analog control circuit during operation
Implementation Method 2
a base unit including an analog base unit controller circuit arranged to receive an audio input signal and generate an analog control signal that is responsive to the audio input signal
Implementation Method 3
the flame display unit including a combustible fuel source to generate an open flame
Data Source
AI summary
A “flame show” is responsive to an audio input signal such as music. A base unit including an analog base unit controller circuit is arranged to receive an audio input signal and generate an analog control signal that is responsive to the audio input signal. The analog control signal is distributed, by wire or wireless, to one or more flame display units such as a “tiki torch.” Each flame display unit has a fuel source, and a proportional valve for controlling an amount of fuel supplied to a burner. Preferably, the control signal controls a gate terminal of a MOSFET semiconductor device, which in turn is coupled to control current in the proportional valve each each unit. By deploying multiple flame display units, all coupled to the same base unit, all of the flame display units contribute synchronously to the overall flame show.