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, allowing the controller to initiate ignition using the start-up power source when the runtime power source is insufficient, and switching to the rechargeable power source during normal operation, with a momentary switch for user-initiated ignition sequences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a piezo igniter is used for initial ignition, then the system can be ignited without external power, but the user must manually depress buttons and hold them down for an extended period, which is inconvenient and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-charges an energy storage device (capacitor) before installation or during initial operation. This preliminary action ensures that sufficient energy is available to automatically initiate the ignition sequence without requiring manual user intervention, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliable ignition and ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The combustion controller automatically manages the ignition sequence using stored energy from the capacitor. The system self-activates the piezo igniter and controls the valve sequence without requiring the user to manually hold buttons down, making the system serve itself and eliminating the operational inconvenience
2Ease of operation
If the energy storage device is pre-charged before installation, then automatic ignition is enabled, but the system requires an additional power source and increased device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage device serves multiple functions: it provides preliminary charging for automatic ignition initiation, stores energy during operation, and enables the system to function without external power sources. This multi-functionality justifies the added component by eliminating the need for separate manual intervention mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The power system is segmented into two distinct components: a pre-charged energy storage device for initial/automatic ignition and a thermoelectric device for ongoing power generation during operation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to reduce overall system complexity
3Reliability
If manual button holding is required until the thermoelectric device generates sufficient power, then the pilot valve can be held open, but the process takes an extended period of time and is tedious
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage device is pre-charged with sufficient energy before the ignition sequence begins. This preliminary energy储备 allows the system to immediately actuate the pilot valve and maintain it open during the entire ignition process, eliminating the need for users to hold buttons down and significantly reducing the time required
Solution Approach 2:
The energy storage device acts as an intermediary between the thermoelectric device and the valve actuator. It bridges the power gap by providing immediate energy for valve actuation while the thermoelectric device gradually generates power, eliminating the need for continuous manual intervention and reducing the overall ignition time
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 enhances energy efficiency by automating the ignition sequence, ensuring reliable operation even when the energy storage device is depleted, and eliminating the need for manual piezo igniter activation.
Implementation Method 1
a thermoelectric device (e.g., a thermopile) capable of generating electricity using the flame from the pilot burner
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.