Electric Fire Flame Generator With Controlled Mist Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric fires that simulate flame effects using water vapor or mist lack improvements in generating realistic three-dimensional flame effects and require enhancements in mist distribution and control systems to maintain optimal operation and extend the lifespan of ultrasonic transducers.
Innovation Solution
A flame generator system that includes a mist generator with an ultrasonic transducer, a separate liquid reservoir, and a mist reservoir with a valve arrangement for controlled mist distribution, along with a level indicator and control circuitry to manage liquid flow and transducer activation, ensuring efficient mist generation and distribution within the fire housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate liquid reservoir is provided that is removable from the flame generator, then ease of refilling is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid reservoir is separated from the flame generator as a distinct, removable component. This segmentation allows the reservoir to be easily removed and refilled independently from the generator unit, directly improving ease of refilling while the modular design keeps the overall system complexity manageable through clear functional separation.
2Reliability
If a level indicator or switch is provided to control liquid flow and protect the transducer, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A level indicator or switch provides feedback about the liquid level in the reservoir to the control system. When the liquid level drops below a predetermined minimum, this feedback signal triggers the control circuitry to turn off the ultrasonic transducer, preventing damage from operating without adequate liquid. This feedback mechanism reliably protects the transducer while adding only minimal complexity through a simple sensor and control logic.
3Duration of action of moving object
If multiple transducers are operated alternatively to extend lifetime, then duration of action is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple ultrasonic transducers are operated in an alternating or periodic manner rather than continuously. The control circuitry cycles through the transducers, activating one while allowing others to rest, thereby distributing the operational workload and extending the overall system lifetime. This periodic operation strategy extends transducer durability while the control complexity remains manageable through simple timing logic.
4Manufacturing precision
If the mist generator is located in the lower portion of the fire housing with outlet coincident with fuel bed, then flame effect realism is improved, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mist generator is positioned in the lower portion of the fire housing with its outlet specifically located to coincide with the fuel bed area. This localized positioning ensures that mist is generated and distributed precisely where it is needed to create realistic flame effects at the base of the fire, improving visual realism. The precise location requirements are managed through designed mounting features that simplify installation despite the specific positioning needs.
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 more realistic flame effect by optimizing mist distribution and extending the lifespan of ultrasonic transducers, while allowing for easy maintenance and refilling, enhancing the overall simulation of a real fire experience.
Implementation Method 1
This liquid could be agitated through use of an ultrasonic generator or the like to effect the formation of fine particles of mist
Implementation Method 2
Once seated the liquid will then pass from the liquid reservoir to the mist generator under gravity- the levels in each of the two vessels being maintained through the head pressure operating against the volume in each of the two vessels
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C
Figure 1D
AI summary
A flame effect generator that operably uses a liquid reservoir to provide liquid for use in generation of flame effects is described.