Ignition system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fire effect systems, such as fire pits and fireplaces, face issues with soot buildup on thermocouples reducing their accuracy and complexity due to multiple components, including the need for pilot lights and flame sensors.
Innovation Solution
A simplified ignition system using a plasma arc igniter positioned at a distance from the burner, with a control module that generates a predictable arc or spark, eliminating the need for pilot lights and flame sensors by controlling fuel flow based on electrical signal quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a thermocouple sensor is used to detect pilot flame presence, then flame detection capability is achieved, but soot buildup on the thermocouple gradually thermally insulates it and reduces measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the thermocouple sensor and pilot light system from the ignition design. Instead of using a thermocouple to detect pilot flame presence, the system uses a plasma arc igniter that generates a predictable electrical signal, removing the component that accumulates soot and loses accuracy over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The plasma arc igniter serves dual functions: it ignites the fuel and simultaneously provides a measurable electrical signal to the control module. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate flame sensing components that require maintenance and are susceptible to soot contamination.
2Reliability
If pilot lights and flame sensors are included in the system, then flame detection and safety control are achieved, but the number of components and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the ignition function and flame detection function into a single plasma arc igniter component. The igniter generates an electrical signal that serves both to ignite the fuel and to provide detection information to the control module, eliminating the need for separate pilot lights and flame sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The plasma arc igniter is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as both the ignition source and the flame detection sensor. By making the igniter multi-functional, the system reduces component count while maintaining safety and control capabilities.
3Productivity
If the igniter is placed in close proximity to the pilot light for effective ignition, then ignition effectiveness is improved, but the igniter is exposed to high heat and flame which reduces its operational life
Solution Approach 1:
The plasma arc igniter creates an electrical discharge that serves as an intermediary mechanism for ignition. The arc bridge is formed through the fuel stream, allowing ignition to occur at a distance from the igniter element, thereby protecting it from direct exposure to high heat and flame while maintaining ignition effectiveness.
4Measurement precision
If the plasma arc igniter generates a predictable electrical signal, then control and detection capability is improved, but the system requires a control module to process the signal
Solution Approach 1:
The plasma arc igniter provides a measurable electrical signal that feeds back to the control module. This feedback mechanism allows the control module to monitor igniter performance and fuel flow conditions, enabling precise control and detection while using simple electronic circuitry rather than complex mechanical systems.
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
Ensures consistent and repeatable ignition with reduced component complexity and soot buildup, as the high-temperature arc is resistant to wind and can be maintained at a distance from the flame, extending the igniter's life and improving reliability.
Implementation Method 1
an igniter positioned adjacent to the burner and configured to ignite fuel emitted by the burner... a plasma arc igniter positioned at a distance from the burner, with a control module that generates a predictable arc or spark
Data Source
AI summary
A system including a burner configured to be coupled to a fuel line to deliver fuel to the burner and an igniter positioned adjacent to the burner and configured to ignite fuel emitted by the burner. The system further includes a valve configured to control a flow of fuel through the fuel line and a control module operably coupled to the igniter and to the valve. The control module is configured to send a signal to the igniter and to close the valve if a quality of a return electrical signal from the igniter is below a predetermined value.