Modular Pyrotechnic Launch Unit With Laser Ignition for Precise Launches
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pyrotechnic systems produce smoke and debris, are imprecise, and difficult to launch pyrotechnic elements in rapid succession due to the use of black powder priming elements and lifting charges, posing environmental and safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A pyrotechnic launch unit utilizing laser-ignited pyrotechnic elements with a modular design, including an elbow module, slide mechanisms, and a regulated air supply to launch pyrotechnic elements with precision and in rapid succession, minimizing smoke and debris.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If black powder priming elements and lifting charges are used, then pyrotechnic elements can be launched, but smoke and debris are produced which are distracting and physically irritating to spectators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical black powder ignition system with a laser ignition system. The laser ignition module uses optical energy to ignite the pyrotechnic composition directly, eliminating the need for black powder priming elements and lifting charges that produce smoke and debris. This substitution of ignition mechanism resolves the contradiction by maintaining launch capability while eliminating harmful emissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the ignition parameter from chemical combustion (black powder) to optical energy (laser). By using a laser ignition module that focuses optical energy onto the pyrotechnic composition, the system achieves ignition without the harmful byproducts of black powder combustion. This parameter change in the ignition method eliminates smoke and debris while preserving the ability to launch pyrotechnic elements.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If black powder priming elements and lifting charges are used, then pyrotechnic elements can be launched, but environmental damage occurs where debris falls to the ground including soil or bodies of water
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical black powder ignition system with a laser ignition system. The laser ignition module uses optical energy to ignite the pyrotechnic composition directly, eliminating the need for black powder priming elements and lifting charges that produce smoke and debris. This substitution of ignition mechanism resolves the contradiction by maintaining launch capability while eliminating harmful emissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful black powder combustion process into a beneficial laser ignition process. Instead of using black powder that creates pollution and environmental damage, the system uses a laser to ignite the pyrotechnic composition, transforming the ignition process from harmful to environmentally friendly while preserving launch functionality.
3Manufacturing precision
If conventional pyrotechnic systems are used, then pyrotechnic elements can be launched, but the trajectories and distances traversed are imprecise and not generally reproducible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical black powder ignition system with a laser ignition system. The laser ignition module uses optical energy to ignite the pyrotechnic composition directly, eliminating the need for black powder priming elements and lifting charges that produce smoke and debris. This substitution of ignition mechanism resolves the contradiction by maintaining launch capability while eliminating harmful emissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a laser ignition system that allows for precise control and repetition of ignition events. The laser ignition module can be positioned and activated with high precision, enabling reproducible trajectories and distances. This level of precision in ignition placement and timing provides feedback control that improves trajectory consistency compared to conventional mechanical systems.
4Productivity
If conventional pyrotechnic systems are used, then pyrotechnic elements can be launched, but it is difficult if not impossible to launch and ignite successive pyrotechnic elements in short precise periods of time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical black powder ignition system with a laser ignition system. The laser ignition module uses optical energy to ignite the pyrotechnic composition directly, eliminating the need for black powder priming elements and lifting charges that produce smoke and debris. This substitution of ignition mechanism resolves the contradiction by maintaining launch capability while eliminating harmful emissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a laser ignition system that can be activated in rapid successive pulses. The laser ignition module is capable of igniting multiple pyrotechnic elements in quick succession with precise timing control. This periodic laser ignition capability enables high launch rates while maintaining reliable ignition through precise optical focusing and timing, overcoming the limitations of conventional 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
Enables precise and repeatable launches of pyrotechnic elements with minimal environmental impact, allowing synchronized displays by using laser ignition and controlled air thrust, eliminating the need for black powder.
Implementation Method 1
The first laser ignition module is configured to project a first laser through the first laser opening
Implementation Method 2
laser-ignited pyrotechnic elements
Implementation Method 3
a regulated air supply to launch pyrotechnic elements with precision
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A modular pyrotechnic launch unit includes a launch module, a first module, and a second module. The launch module includes a launch barrel. The first module is coupled in series to the launch module. The first module includes a first ignition state in which the first module ignites a pyrotechnic element that will then pass through the launch barrel. The first module also includes a first pass-through state in which the first module allows a pyrotechnic element ignited by another module to pass through the first module. The second module is coupled in series to the first module. The second module includes a second ignition state in which the second module ignites a pyrotechnic element that will then pass through the first module and through the launch barrel.