Method and system for starting an intermittent flame-powered pilot combustion system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Intermittent pilot systems for gas-powered appliances require manual intervention and are inconvenient due to the need for users to manually ignite the pilot flame using a piezo igniter, especially when the energy storage device is not sufficiently charged, leading to inefficiencies and user error.
Innovation Solution
A dual power source system where a pre-charged start-up power source and a rechargeable energy storage device are used, with the controller initiating ignition using the start-up power source when the rechargeable device is below a threshold, and switching to the rechargeable device when it is above the threshold, and including a momentary switch for user-initiated ignition sequences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a piezo igniter is used for initial pilot ignition, then the system can ignite the pilot flame without external power, but the user must manually activate it and hold the gas button for an extended period, which is inconvenient and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-charges an energy storage device (capacitor or battery) before installation or during initial setup, so that sufficient energy is available immediately for automatic ignition without requiring the user to hold buttons for extended periods. The pre-charged power source enables the controller to automatically initiate the ignition sequence upon detecting a call for heat.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a self-powered controller that automatically detects when ignition is needed and initiates the ignition sequence without user intervention. The controller monitors the call for heat condition and autonomously activates the igniter and gas valve, eliminating the need for manual piezo igniter activation and button holding.
2Extent of automation
If the energy storage device is pre-charged before installation, then sufficient power is available for automatic ignition, but the system complexity increases with dual power sources and power management requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between power sources based on availability. The controller monitors the rechargeable energy storage device's charge level and automatically transitions to the pre-charged power source when needed, providing adaptive power management that balances automation with manageable complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pre-charged power source acts as an intermediary backup that bridges the gap between the rechargeable device's charge cycles and the ignition requirements. This intermediary power source ensures continuous operational capability without requiring complex real-time power management algorithms.
3Loss of energy
If the rechargeable energy storage device is used for subsequent ignitions, then energy efficiency is improved by using flame-generated power, but the device may not have sufficient charge after extended non-use periods
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides a pre-charged power source as a cushion or backup before the rechargeable device's charge is depleted. This prior cushioning ensures that even after extended non-use periods when the rechargeable device may be discharged, the system can still reliably ignite the pilot flame using the pre-charged power source.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the power source parameter (from rechargeable to pre-charged) based on the charge level and usage conditions. When the rechargeable device's charge falls below a threshold or after extended non-use, the controller switches to the pre-charged power source, adapting the power supply parameter to maintain reliable 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
This solution simplifies the ignition process, reduces user effort, and improves energy efficiency by automating the transition between power sources, ensuring reliable pilot flame ignition without the need for manual piezo igniter activation.
Implementation Method 1
a thermoelectric and/or photoelectric device that charges the first power source when the thermal electric device is exposed to a flame
Implementation Method 2
a thermoelectric and/or photoelectric device that charges the first power source when the thermal electric device is exposed to a flame
Data Source
AI summary
A flame powered intermittent pilot combustion controller may include a first power source and a second power source separate from the first power source, a thermal electric and/or photoelectric device, an igniter and a controller. The thermal electric and/or photoelectric device may charge the first power source when exposed to a flame. The controller and the igniter may receive power from the first power source when the first power source has sufficient available power, and may receive power from the second power source when the first power source does not have sufficient available power.