Gas Tap Control Module With Low-Voltage Ignition Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas tap control devices for appliances with gas burners lack safety, compactness, and cost-effectiveness, often requiring complex assembly and posing electrical hazards due to the use of high-voltage components.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a supporting structure and circuit arrangement that includes a low-voltage supply stage, a lighting control stage, and a warning stage, which eliminates the need for high-voltage components on the tap, providing intrinsic safety and ease of assembly, while allowing for precise control of gas supply and ignition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If high-voltage components are used in the gas tap control device, then the device can provide sufficient power for the electromagnet and gas lighter, but the device poses electrical hazards and reduces safety
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control device into separate functional modules: a low-voltage control circuit board (3.3V or 5V) for logic control and a separate high-voltage power stage for the electromagnet and gas lighter. This segmentation allows the control board to operate at safe low voltages while the power stage handles high voltage, eliminating electrical hazards on the tap body and improving safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary power conversion stage between the low-voltage control circuit and the high-voltage loads. The control board generates control signals that activate MOSFETs or triacs in the power stage, which then switch the high-voltage supply to the electromagnet and gas lighter. This intermediary approach isolates the low-voltage control electronics from high-voltage hazards.
2Reliability
If complex assembly procedures are required for the control device, then the device can achieve precise functional integration, but the ease of manufacture and assembly is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (control logic, power switching, gas flow control, and ignition control) into a single integrated control device assembly. The control circuit board is mounted on the tap body with direct electrical connections to the electromagnet and gas lighter, eliminating the need for separate wiring harnesses and reducing assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device is designed as a universal module that can control multiple functions simultaneously: the electromagnet for gas flow control and the gas lighter for ignition. The single control board handles both functions through separate control circuits, reducing the need for multiple separate control devices and simplifying assembly.
3Power
If high-voltage components are used in the gas tap control device, then the device can provide sufficient power for the electromagnet and gas lighter, but the production cost increases due to safety requirements and component complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional high-voltage mechanical switching components (relays, contactors) with solid-state electronic switching devices (MOSFETs, triacs) on the control circuit board. These electronic switches are smaller, more reliable, and less expensive than their mechanical counterparts, reducing production costs while maintaining sufficient power delivery capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses inexpensive integrated circuits and standard electronic components on the control board that can be easily replaced if needed. The low-voltage control electronics are designed with commodity components rather than expensive specialized parts, reducing overall production cost while the high-voltage power stage uses simple, robust switching devices.
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 enhances safety, reduces assembly complexity, and lowers production costs by using low-voltage components, ensuring reliable and user-friendly operation of gas appliances.
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. 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, which determines a current that supplies the electromagnet of the safety valve
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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AI summary
A control device for gas appliances comprises at least one control module (20) having a supporting structure that can be associated to a gas tap ( 10) and defines a housing, contained within which is at least one first part of a circuit arrangement. The control module (20) comprises command means operable by a user for activating at least one timing function and/or a function of ignition of a gas burner. The first part of the circuit arrangement comprises control means, electrical-interconnection means, and detection means (45) configured for detecting actuation of the command means and supplying corresponding signals to the control means. The circuit arrangement comprises further control and/or command means (PSD, IS, F, LE, BC, ISC) and/or an auxiliary module (PSD).