Helium Pressure Generator for Cavity Agent Propulsion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing propulsion devices for fire extinguishing agents in cavities face challenges related to safety, complexity, weight, cost, and maintenance, particularly in aerospace applications, where reliable and efficient propulsion is crucial but often compromised by the use of energy-type fuels and complex manufacturing techniques.
Innovation Solution
A propulsion device with a pressure generator comprising two inert gas containers, each releasing helium as a propellant, ensuring agent expulsion even if one container malfunctions, with minimal energy usage and modular design for ease of maintenance and installation, using helium's unique properties to enhance safety and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a pyrotechnic module is used as the pressure generator, then propulsion efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase due to strict safety standards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the pyrotechnic chemical system with a mechanical pressure generator consisting of a spring-loaded piston and valve mechanism. This mechanical system achieves reliable propulsion without the manufacturing complexity and safety concerns of pyrotechnic materials, while maintaining sufficient power output for agent expulsion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters by using a spring-loaded mechanical system instead of chemical combustion. The spring mechanism provides controlled pressure buildup and release, allowing precise control over the propulsion process without the uncontrollable thermal and chemical reactions of pyrotechnic modules.
2Reliability
If a pyrotechnic module is used to ensure reliability, then safety is improved, but device weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical spring-loaded system is significantly lighter than pyrotechnic modules while providing equivalent or superior reliability. The mechanical components (spring, piston, valve) are inherently more reliable than chemical systems, eliminating the need for heavy safety measures and complex manufacturing controls.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If inert gas containers are used, then safety is improved by reducing fire risk, but propulsion power may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the spring mechanism parameters (spring constant, piston area, valve timing) to maximize propulsion power output from the inert gas pressure buildup. This allows the system to achieve high propulsion forces without the fire hazard of pyrotechnic materials, maintaining both safety and power performance.
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 high-safety, lightweight, and cost-effective propulsion system with improved control over pressure profiles and reduced energy material usage, suitable for various transportation environments, ensuring reliable agent expulsion while minimizing the risk of fires and maintaining safety standards.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of the containers is pressurized (before using the device) with an inert-type gas that acts as a propellant gas
Implementation Method 2
The expansion of the gas is the direct mechanical propellant of the agent through the outflow port
Implementation Method 3
A pressure generator is fastened to the cap and configured to induce, e.g., by electrical triggering the propulsion of the agent
Data Source
AI summary
A propulsion device for an agent, such as an extinguishing or cooling agent, contained in a cavity has at least a cap and a port configured to open above a calibrated pressure inside the cavity. A pressure generator is fastened to the cap and triggers the propulsion of the agent. The pressure generator has at least two containers, each having an exit ending inside the cavity and releasing a propulsion gas. At least one container is pressurized with an inert-type gas, such as helium, suited for minimal temperature fluctuations induced inside the cavity during a relief of pressure of the gas from at least one of the containers. When the gas expands it is the direct mechanical propellant of the agent.