Automated Torch Flame Control via Programmable Igniter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional torches, such as tiki torches, face issues with weather resistance, manual ignition, and the use of petroleum-based fuels that produce unsightly soot and pollutants, requiring frequent relighting and lacking automated re-ignition capabilities.
Innovation Solution
An automated torch system with a programmable computer module that converts low voltage to high voltage to actuate a valve and control fuel flow, an igniter with a flame detection sensor, and adjustable components for air and fuel mixture, ensuring self-contained operation and clean burning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If automated re-ignition capability is added to torches, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the computer module, fuel valve, and igniter into an integrated assembly that fits within the torch head housing. This merging of components eliminates the need for external computer systems while maintaining automated re-ignition functionality, thus improving reliability without excessive complexity increase.
Solution Approach 2:
The computer module is housed within the torch head structure itself, nesting the control system inside the existing torch architecture. This nesting approach allows the automated system to be contained within the torch without requiring separate external equipment, balancing functionality with compactness.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If clean-burning fuel is used, then object-generated harmful factors are reduced, but fuel cost or availability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a computer-controlled fuel valve that precisely regulates fuel flow rate and an air-fuel mixture ratio. By optimizing these parameters, the system achieves complete combustion with clean-burning natural gas or propane, minimizing soot and emissions while maintaining efficient fuel consumption through precise control rather than excessive fuel delivery.
3Ease of operation
If manual ignition is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but productivity decreases when multiple torches need lighting
Solution Approach 1:
The torch system performs self-service through automated ignition and monitoring. The computer module continuously monitors the flame state and automatically triggers the igniter when the flame goes out, eliminating the need for manual relighting. This allows multiple torches to be managed automatically, dramatically improving productivity while maintaining ease of initial operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates a flame detection sensor that provides continuous feedback to the computer module about flame status. When the sensor detects that the flame has extinguished, it immediately signals the computer to activate the igniter, creating a closed-loop automatic response system that eliminates manual intervention for relighting multiple torches.
4Shape
If the burning chamber is open to weather elements, then flame aesthetics are maintained, but reliability deteriorates under wind and rain
Solution Approach 1:
The flame detection sensor continuously monitors whether the flame is present and provides feedback to the computer module. When wind or rain extinguishes the flame, the sensor detects this condition and immediately triggers automatic reignition, maintaining reliability despite the open burning chamber design that preserves flame aesthetics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically detecting flame extinction and initiating reignition before the torch fully goes out or before user intervention is needed. This proactive automatic response ensures continuous operation despite adverse weather conditions affecting the open burning chamber.
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 provides a self-sustaining, aesthetically pleasing flame that automatically re-ignites in adverse weather conditions, reducing environmental impact and maintenance, while maintaining functionality and appearance.
Implementation Method 1
the module configured to convert a low voltage to a high voltage, the module further configured to actuate a valve, the module still further configured to control the valve to vary the amount of fuel introduced into the burning chamber
Implementation Method 2
The anode and the cathode of the igniter are configured to detect the presence of a flame within the burning chamber
Implementation Method 3
An automated torch for generating and sustaining a flame... a burning chamber, the burning chamber being open to the atmosphere and weather elements to expose the flame to the atmosphere and weather elements
Data Source
AI summary
An automated torch for generating and sustaining a flame is provided that includes a head, the head including a burning chamber, the burning chamber being open to the atmosphere and weather elements to expose the flame to the atmosphere and weather elements, a pole, a valve, a programmable computer module, the module configured to convert a low voltage to a high voltage, the module further configured to actuate a valve, the module still further configured to control the rotation of the valve to vary the amount of fuel introduced into the burning chamber to modify the aesthetics of the flame, a sleeve nut, the sleeve nut configured to be adjustable to control the amount of air introduced in the burning chamber to modify the aesthetics of the flame, at least one fuel supply tube, a diffuser assembly and an igniter. The igniter positioned within the burning chamber and the igniter including an anode and a cathode. The anode and the cathode are positioned such that the anode is proximate the cathode to create a sufficient gap such that when the high voltage is applied to said igniter a spark is induced across the gap. The anode and the cathode of the igniter are configured to detect the presence of a flame within the burning chamber. The igniter is configured to be electrically connected to the programmable computer module, the programmable computer module programmed to interpret a signal from the igniter to determine whether the high voltage should be induced across the gap to create the spark or a flame is present in the burning chamber.