Fire and Water Display with Integrated Safety Controls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current decorative displays that combine water and fire features lack interaction between a still water body and combustible gases, and they do not incorporate appropriate safety control features to minimize the risk of injury and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A decorative fire and water display system that includes a basin for stagnant or circulated water, with flammable gases being transmitted and ignited upon surfacing, featuring safety controls such as water level and temperature sensors, a pilot light sensor, and auto-fill mechanisms to maintain optimal water levels and prevent gas buildup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If water and fire features are isolated in separate locations, then safety is improved, but aesthetic interaction and visual appeal deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces water as an intermediary medium that allows fire gases to pass through while maintaining physical separation. The water body serves as a mediator that enables aesthetic interaction between fire and water features while preserving safety through the natural barrier properties of water
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the combustion process from traditional fire containers and relocates it to occur within or through the water body itself. By taking out the fire source and allowing it to burn within the water environment, the system achieves both safety (fire contained in water) and aesthetic interaction (flames visible through water surface)
2Reliability
If safety control features are added to decorative displays, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service safety mechanisms where the system automatically monitors and responds to safety conditions without requiring external intervention. Sensors detect water level, temperature, and gas presence, and the system automatically activates or deactivates components to maintain safe operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple safety functions into integrated control systems. Safety sensors, control logic, and actuation mechanisms are merged into a unified system that manages multiple safety parameters simultaneously, reducing overall system complexity compared to separate safety subsystems
3Reliability
If water circulation is implemented, then combustion efficiency is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic water circulation rather than continuous flow. The circulation system operates in cycles, creating intermittent water movement that periodically enhances combustion efficiency while allowing energy-saving intervals when circulation is reduced or stopped
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic water circulation control that adjusts flow rates and circulation intensity based on real-time combustion conditions. The system adapts water movement dynamically to match combustion needs, providing enhanced circulation when combustion efficiency is needed and reduced circulation when not required, optimizing energy consumption
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 safe and low-maintenance decorative display with dynamic flame interactions, ensuring proper combustion and reducing safety hazards through integrated safety features.
Implementation Method 1
The gas can rise or float from the connection means to the surface of the water due to the discrepancy between the densities of the water and the gas
Implementation Method 2
Means for igniting gas may include, but are not limited to, a pilot light disposed at a distance above the water level can ignite the flammable gases
Implementation Method 3
The circulation may include streams, falls, or similar pressure/gravity assisted means in order to create a certain level of disruption and aeration in the body of water that aids in the combustion of gases and helps slow the heating of the water
Implementation Method 4
various safety controls including water level and temperature sensors, a pilot light sensor, and auto-fill mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
A system for providing a combined water and fire display is provided. More specifically, a decorative display comprises a dynamic water and fire display device where fuel/air, water, and fire are integrated. The decorative display provides for unique aesthetic qualities and an appearance wherein flames are positioned at or near the surface of a volume of water. In various embodiments, the decorative display further comprises various safety features including the ability to detect and self-regulate conditions such as the existence and/or absence of a pilot flame, an adequate amount of water, and the temperature of various portions of the system. The decorative display further contemplates the ability to operate without one or more disclosed features, such as when only a water display or only a fire display is desired.