Multi-Wick Log Torch Structure for Safer Large Flame
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional campfires and patio fireplaces pose fire hazards and are often banned in populated areas, consume large amounts of wood, and lack portability, while candles provide an aesthetically poor substitute for a larger flame.
Innovation Solution
A tabletop torch with a wooden log base featuring vertically drilled wick bores and a concave surface with reservoir holes, fueled by candle wax, produces a single large flame by merging individual wick flames, providing a campfire-like experience without smoke and soot.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If traditional campfires are used, then a lively large flame experience is achieved, but fire hazards and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The torch divides the large flame into multiple smaller wick flames (typically 3-5 individual wicks) that burn simultaneously. Each wick produces a controlled small flame, and together they create the appearance of a larger flame while maintaining safety through segmentation of the combustion sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary containment structure (the torch body with metal or glass enclosure) that mediates between the fuel source and the surrounding environment. This intermediary structure controls the combustion process, contains embers, and directs the flame output safely, reducing fire hazards while maintaining visual appeal.
2Reliability
If traditional patio fireplaces are used, then contained fire experience is achieved, but portability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The torch is designed as a segmented, modular structure with a compact body that can be easily handled and moved. The separation of fuel reservoir, wick assembly, and containment structure allows for a lightweight design that maintains fire containment capabilities while enabling portability across different locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the scale and configuration parameters from large stationary fireplaces to a compact handheld torch. By reducing the overall dimensions and using efficient fuel delivery systems, the design achieves fire containment in a portable format suitable for movement between tables or locations.
3Illumination intensity
If traditional fireplaces are used, then large flame experience is achieved, but wood consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fuel parameter from wood to alcohol or gel fuel. This substitution dramatically reduces material consumption while maintaining flame output. The liquid or gel fuel delivers consistent energy density with much lower mass consumption compared to burning wood, achieving the same illumination effect with minimal fuel usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The torch uses consumable fuel cartridges or refillable alcohol/gel reservoirs that can be quickly replaced. Instead of consuming large amounts of wood that requires processing and handling, the system uses compact, pre-measured fuel sources that provide adequate burn time and can be easily replenished, reducing overall material loss.
4Reliability
If multi-wick candles are used, then flame presence is achieved, but aesthetic quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The torch merges multiple individual wick flames into a unified visual display through strategic positioning and spacing. The flames are arranged to create a cohesive burning pattern that resembles a single large flame or a controlled fire effect, improving aesthetic quality compared to scattered candle flames while maintaining reliable flame presence through multiple wicks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary optical element or reflective surface within the torch structure that helps merge and direct the individual wick flames. This intermediary component enhances the visual cohesion of the multiple flames, creating an aesthetically pleasing unified flame effect rather than disjointed candle flames.
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
The tabletop torch offers a safe, portable, and aesthetically pleasing flame experience that can last hundreds of hours with minimal wood consumption, using candle wax as a fuel.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of wick bores drilled vertically into it. The wick bores have wicks received in them
Implementation Method 2
the heat from the individual flames melt the wax contained in the wicks and the wick bores
Implementation Method 3
the liquid wax continues to increase in temperature until reaching a temperature that supports burning
Data Source
AI summary
A tabletop torch comprised of an upright wooden log with a upwardly facing top surface that has a plurality of wick bores drilled vertically into it is described. The wick bores have wicks received in them through which to ignite and sustain the flame of the torch. Additionally the top surface is concave and includes a plurality of smaller shallower holes drilled downwardly across its surface. These holes along with the wick bores and the concave surface serve as reservoirs for candle wax and as the wax therein and on ignites the individuals flames from the wick join into a single larger flame.