Ionization Electrode Flame Signal Detection with Adjustable Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flame signal detection methods in burners have a fixed measurement resolution, which is not optimal for different operating points, leading to non-linear ionization current measurement and inadequate detection of flame resistance across various operating conditions.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that generate signals with adjustable threshold values and gradient profiles to optimize measurement resolution for different operating points, allowing for reliable detection of ionization current and flame resistance, and enabling linearization of the ionization current signal over its modulation range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a fixed measurement resolution is used in the control circuit, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates across different operating points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the measurement resolution adjustable rather than fixed. The control circuit can adapt its measurement resolution to match different operating points of the burner, allowing optimal precision across the entire modulation range while maintaining manageable device complexity through a configurable parameter.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement resolution parameter of the control circuit to optimize ionization current detection. By adjusting this parameter according to the operating point, the system achieves high measurement precision without requiring complete redesign of the control circuit architecture for each operating condition.
2Measurement precision
If the measurement resolution is increased for high precision ionization current detection, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing hardware complexity, the patent optimizes measurement precision by changing the measurement resolution parameter of the existing control circuit. This software/parameter-based approach achieves high precision detection without adding complex hardware components.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit is designed to serve multiple operating points with a single configuration, making it universal. By adjusting the measurement resolution parameter, the same control circuit can optimally detect ionization current across different burner operating conditions without requiring multiple specialized circuits.
3Ease of operation
If a single measurement resolution is used for all operating points, then the ease of operation is improved, but the adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the control system to adapt to different burner operating points by changing the measurement resolution parameter. This maintains ease of operation through automated or simple parameter adjustment while achieving high adaptability across the full range of burner operating conditions.
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 accurate and stable regulation of the combustion process by providing optimal measurement resolution for varying operating conditions, ensuring reliable detection of flame presence and air-fuel mixture composition adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
detecting a first signal, which is a direct current signal dependent on an ionization current flowing from an ionization electrode
Implementation Method 2
an alternating voltage is applied to the ionization electrode, and the current flowing from the ionization electrode, which is rectified due to the rectifying properties of the flame
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for flame signal detection by means of an ionisation electrode protruding into a combustion zone of a burner, comprising the steps: detecting a first signal, which is dependent upon an ionisation stream flowing off from the ionisation electrode, generating a second signal which has a predetermined periodic pattern, generating a third signal by addition of the first signal (225) and of the second signal, comparing the third signal with a first threshold value (reference 1) and generating a fourth signal (output signal 1) on the basis of the comparison of the third signal with the first threshold value (reference 2), comparing the third signal with a second threshold value (reference 2) different from the first threshold value and generating a fifth signal (output signal 1) on the basis of the comparison of the third signal with the second threshold value (reference 2), and determining an operating variable of the burner on the basis of at least one of the fourth signal and the fifth signal. The invention further relates to a corresponding device for flame signal detection.