Gas Tap Control Device with Integrated Sensor and Timing Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas tap control devices for appliances with gas burners lack a compact, inexpensive, and reliable solution for timed control of gas supply, which is essential for precise burner operation and safety.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a manual-control mechanism, circuit arrangement, and sensor means that detects actuation signals, modifies electrical connections, and provides user notification, integrated with a supporting structure for mounting within the gas appliance, allowing for precise timing of gas supply and potentially integrating with the gas lighter system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a timing control device is added to the gas tap system, then the functionality for timed gas supply is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the timing control device with the existing gas tap control mechanism by integrating the actuation element into the rod structure. The sensor means is coupled to detect rod position, and the control means uses this information to automatically control the timing function, merging multiple functions into a unified system rather than adding separate independent components.
Solution Approach 2:
The control means serves multiple functions: it processes sensor signals from the rod position detection, determines timing parameters, controls the gas valve operation, and can interface with the lighter system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby managing complexity while enhancing versatility.
2Measurement precision
If the control device integrates sensor means and circuit arrangement, then the measurement precision of rod position is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical position detection mechanisms with sensor means that can be coupled to the rod. These sensors (which could be optical, magnetic, or capacitive) provide precise position detection without requiring complex mechanical linkages, gears, or linkages, thereby achieving high measurement precision with relatively simple integration.
3Ease of operation
If the actuation element is integrated into the rod, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation element on the rod serves dual purposes: it is the traditional manual operation interface for opening/closing the gas valve, and simultaneously serves as the positioning element for the sensor means. This multi-functionality allows the same component to provide both user interaction and automated detection functions, improving ease of operation without proportionally increasing complexity.
4Extent of automation
If the control means automatically controls the gas valve based on sensor detection, then the extent of automation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control means automatically processes sensor signals and executes timing control without requiring external intervention or complex decision-making systems. The rod itself serves as the input signal source, and the control means autonomously determines when to open/close the gas valve based on detected rod position and pre-programmed timing parameters, enabling self-service operation.
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 enables a compact, cost-effective, and reliable timed control of gas supply to gas burners, enhancing safety and user convenience by automatically shutting off gas after a set interval, reducing manual intervention and ensuring consistent burner operation.
Implementation Method 1
The electromagnet is supplied via a thermo-electric generator, typically constituted by a thermocouple connected to a corresponding attachment or electrical connector of the tap body. The opposite end of the thermocouple, i.e., its sensitive part or hot junction, is installed in the proximity of the burner controlled by the tap. When the burner is lit, the sensitive part of the thermocouple generates an electromotive force (e.m.f.) in response to the heat generated by the flame to the burner
Implementation Method 2
The electromagnet is supplied via a thermo-electric generator... which determines a current that supplies the electromagnet of the safety valve, such as to keep the open/close element of the latter (associated to a movable core attracted by the electromagnet) in the respective open condition, countering the action of a spring
Data Source
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Figure 6~7
AI summary
A part of the sensor device is movable with respect to a second axis (B), and operatively set between the manual-control element (22) and the movable part of the sensor device is a transmission arrangement (28-30).