Flame Mitigation Device for Portable Fuel Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable fuel containers pose risks of explosion and debris entry due to improper use, such as pouring fuel onto smoldering campfires or open flames, and exposed ports that can allow sparks or debris into the container.
Innovation Solution
A flame mitigation device (FMD) is integrated within the fill port neck of the container, featuring a rim with inwardly extending bristles or layered sheets with converging slits, which constrict the fuel nozzle and prevent fuel backflow and debris entry, while allowing the nozzle to pass through and serving as an air intake.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the fill port is left open for fueling, then fuel can be easily added to the container, but external debris and sparks can enter the container interior
Solution Approach 1:
The FMD introduces a localized barrier structure within the fill port neck that selectively blocks debris while permitting fuel flow. The bristles or layered sheets create a targeted protection zone at the fill port entrance without obstructing the overall fueling operation, allowing fuel to pass through while stopping debris and sparks.
Solution Approach 2:
The FMD acts as an intermediary element positioned between the external environment and the container interior. This intermediate barrier structure facilitates safe fueling by mediating the interaction between incoming fuel and potential contaminants, allowing beneficial fuel flow while blocking harmful debris and sparks.
2Ease of operation
If the fill port is left open for fueling, then fuel can be easily added to the container, but fuel can flow back out and ignition risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The FMD creates a localized constraint within the fill port that selectively permits fuel inflow during filling while preventing fuel backflow during dispensing. The bristle structure or layered sheets provide asymmetric flow control, allowing fuel to pass through during filling but creating resistance to backflow that prevents ignition hazards.
Solution Approach 2:
The FMD provides preliminary protection by preventing fuel backflow before ignition can occur. The barrier structure is positioned to intercept and stop any fuel that attempts to flow backward toward the container interior, eliminating the ignition risk before it can materialize.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a barrier is placed in the fill port to prevent debris entry, then debris protection is improved, but fuel flow may be obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The FMD employs a porous or permeable barrier structure consisting of bristles or layered sheets with gaps between them. This porous configuration allows fuel to flow through the barrier while blocking larger debris particles and sparks, maintaining fuel flow rate while providing effective protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The FMD uses flexible bristle elements or thin layered sheets that can deform to accommodate fuel flow while maintaining their barrier function. The flexible structure allows fuel to pass through during normal operation but maintains the barrier integrity to block debris and prevent backflow.
Data Source
AI summary
A flame mitigation device (FMD) contained within the neck of a container and configured to allow the fuel nozzle to pass through the FMD. The FMD forming a barrier in the neck of the fill port and capable of constricting the fuel nozzle upon passing through the FMD to inhibit external debris from entering the interior of the portable container and to inhibit fuel from flowing back out of the fill port.