Gas Burner Igniter Voltage Switching for Rapid Reliable Ignition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ignition systems for gas burners, particularly those using spark igniters and hot surface igniters, face reliability issues and high complexity, with microprocessor-based solutions being costly and prone to errors, and consumers prefer a continuously glowing igniter for reliability.
Innovation Solution
A non-microprocessor based ignition control system using a boost circuit and timer circuit to rapidly heat a low voltage DC powered electrical resistive igniter, switching to a lower voltage supply after ignition to maintain temperature, ensuring reliable ignition within a predetermined time and extending igniter life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If microprocessor-based control systems are used to control hot surface igniters, then ignition timing and temperature control can be precisely managed, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the microprocessor control system and replaces it with simple electronic timing circuits and voltage switching mechanisms. The complex software-based control algorithm is removed and replaced with hardware-based timing circuits that automatically control the igniter voltage switching without requiring microprocessors or software routines.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electronic/microprocessor-based control system with a simpler electrical control system using voltage switching circuits, timing capacitors, and thermal feedback mechanisms. This substitution eliminates the need for complex computing hardware while achieving the same ignition control objectives through purely electrical means.
2Reliability
If high voltage is continuously applied to the igniter to maintain ignition temperature, then reliable ignition is achieved, but the igniter lifespan decreases due to excessive thermal stress
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic voltage switching to the igniter, alternating between high voltage (for rapid heating and ignition) and low voltage (for maintenance heating). The timing circuits create periodic cycles where the igniter receives full power only during the ignition phase, then transitions to reduced power for the maintenance phase, preventing continuous thermal stress while ensuring reliable ignition when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary high voltage to the igniter before gas flow is established, pre-heating the igniter surface to ignition temperature in advance. Once the igniter reaches sufficient temperature, the voltage is reduced to maintenance levels, preventing overheating and extending lifespan while ensuring ignition readiness before fuel arrives.
3Speed
If fast-responding low mass ceramic igniters are used, then ignition can occur within the 4-second regulatory threshold, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical parameters applied to the igniter (voltage and time) rather than changing the physical parameters of the igniter material itself. By using high voltage for a brief period followed by reduced voltage, the system achieves rapid heating and ignition within 4 seconds using conventional ceramic igniters, avoiding the need for specialized low-mass ceramic materials and their associated manufacturing complexities.
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 solution provides a reliable and cost-effective ignition system that ignites gas within the required time frame, maintains igniter temperature above the ignition temperature, and reduces the risk of power overloading, enhancing consumer trust and extending the igniter's lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
electrical resistive hot surface igniters
Implementation Method 2
A boost circuit is coupled to the timer circuit
Data Source
AI summary
An ignition control system for an appliance is disclosed. The appliance includes a gas burner, a user actuable valve for controlling a flow of fuel to the burner and an electrical resistance igniter for igniting fuel at the burner. The system includes a user actuable control interface having an off state and an on state, coupled to the valve operative to control the valve and provide a control signal indicative of the state of the control interface. The system also includes a controller having a timer circuit responsive to the control signal and a boost circuit coupled to the timer circuit. The timer circuit selectively activates the boost circuit for a predetermined period of time. A first DC power supply is selectively coupled to the igniter to provide power to the igniter through the boost circuit. A second DC power supply is coupled to the igniter and control interface.