Handheld Fog System Using Nested Insulator and Heating Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fog machines are bulky, heavy, and require utility power, making them inconvenient for portable use, while compact battery-powered options are uneconomical due to complex components.
Innovation Solution
A handheld fog effects system with a battery-operated power supply, elongated electric heating element, air supply subsystem, and fog fluid supply subsystem, integrated into a compact body that resembles objects like a torch or cigar, allowing for portable and user-operable fog generation with optional illumination for dramatic effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional fog machines are designed with utility power requirements and boxy shape, then fog generation capability is achieved, but portability and compactness are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The heating element is nested within the insulator, which is integrated into the handheld body. The fog fluid reservoir is contained within the same body, creating a compact nested structure that reduces overall device volume while maintaining all necessary functional components for fog generation
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a two-dimensional boxy shape to a three-dimensional elongated cylindrical form that can be held in the hand. This dimensional change allows the fog generation components to be arranged along the length of the body, achieving compactness while preserving functionality
2Ease of operation
If fog machines are made compact with battery power, then portability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase due to specialized parts
Solution Approach 1:
The insulator serves multiple functions: it provides thermal insulation for the heating element, acts as a structural housing for the nested components, and functions as part of the fog generation chamber. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate specialized parts needed in the battery-powered compact design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the heating element, insulator, fog fluid reservoir, and battery-powered control system into a single integrated handheld body. This merging of components simplifies the overall system architecture compared to separate specialized parts, reducing both complexity and cost while maintaining portability
3Power
If fog machines are designed for utility power, then fog generation effectiveness is maintained, but weight and portability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a battery-operated power supply instead of utility power, accepting that batteries have limited capacity and need replacement. This approach prioritizes portability and effectiveness during the battery's operational life, with the understanding that the power source is temporary and replaceable rather than permanent and heavy
4Ease of operation
If conventional fog machines are made portable, then ease of movement is improved, but they remain bulky and heavy like briefcases
Solution Approach 1:
The device adopts a curved cylindrical shape resembling a torch or cigar, replacing the angular boxy form of conventional fog machines. This curved geometry allows for more efficient space utilization of internal components and creates a handheld form factor that is naturally more portable and ergonomic while maintaining all necessary fog generation functions
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
Enables portable, economical, and versatile fog generation with the ability to create realistic fire-like effects, suitable for theatrical or prop uses, by integrating a compact and user-friendly design with efficient vaporization and illumination.
Implementation Method 1
The heating element causes the fluid to vaporize, producing a visible vapor or fog
Implementation Method 2
The insulator maintains thermal energy by reducing heat loss
Implementation Method 3
The control system can include a battery-operated power supply
Data Source
AI summary
A fog effects system includes a control system, a fog fluid reservoir, an elongated insulator, an elongated electric heating element, an air supply subsystem, a fog fluid supply subsystem, and a handheld body. The control system can include a battery-operated power supply and a user-operable control. The heating element extends along the insulator. The control system electrically energizes the heating element during system operation. The air supply subsystem directs a flow of air along the heating element during system operation. The fog fluid supply supplies fog fluid to the flow of air. The heating element vaporizes the fog fluid, which is emitted from an end of the system.