Crematory Tool
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current crematory cleaning methods, such as using metal brooms and vacuum devices, are inefficient and ineffective in collecting finer cremains due to extreme temperatures and air filtration issues, leading to incomplete removal and potential co-mingling of remains, necessitating prolonged crematory shutdowns for cooling.
Innovation Solution
A tool connected to a fluid compressor with a stainless steel fluid conduit and nozzle system, including a metal brush and hood, is designed to extract cremains by directing a fluid stream into the crematory, allowing for immediate use post-process without cooling, with dual ports and slit nozzles to ensure thorough collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If metal brooms are used to sweep out cremains, then the tool can withstand extreme temperatures, but the collection efficiency is poor and finer cremains are left behind
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a pneumatic system using compressed air delivered through a hose to a nozzle assembly. The high-velocity air stream creates a fluidized bed effect that lifts and transports cremains through a collection hood, replacing the mechanical sweeping action of metal brooms with a pneumatic conveying system that achieves superior collection efficiency while maintaining temperature resistance.
2Productivity
If vacuum devices are used to gather cremains, then collection efficiency improves, but the air filtration system traps cremains and device damage occurs at temperatures above 900 degrees
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using suction (vacuum) to collect cremains, the patent inverts the approach by using pressurized compressed air to fluidize and convey the cremains. This reversal eliminates the need for air filtration systems and protects the device from thermal damage, as the pneumatic conveying components are designed to withstand high temperatures without the vulnerability of filters and motors found in vacuum devices.
3Reliability
If the crematory is allowed to cool for extended periods, then vacuum devices can be used without damage, but the crematory shuts down and loses operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the cleaning system by using compressed air at controlled pressures (adjustable via regulator) and optimizing the nozzle configuration to create effective fluidization. This allows the system to operate safely and effectively at the high temperatures present immediately after cremation, eliminating the need for cooling periods and maintaining continuous crematory availability.
4Productivity
If immediate cleaning is performed after cremation, then heat energy is preserved and operational efficiency improves, but incomplete removal of cremains occurs with traditional tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vibratory motion inherent in pneumatic conveying and the fluidized state of cremains to enhance separation and collection. The turbulent air flow and fluidization process create dynamic motion that prevents cremains from adhering to surfaces and ensures complete removal, achieving both immediate operation and thorough collection.
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 efficient and complete removal of cremains from the crematory immediately after the process, preventing loss and co-mingling, while maintaining the crematory's operational readiness without extended shutdowns.
Implementation Method 1
provide stream of fluid that will work to extract cremains from the cremator
Implementation Method 2
connected to a fluid compressor to provide stream of fluid
Implementation Method 3
The tool may include a metal brush and hood to deflect the escape of blown cremains
Data Source
AI summary
A blower type tool is designed to be connected to a fluid compressor to provide a stream of fluid that will extract cremains from a crematory, cremation chamber. The tool includes a conduit connected to fluid distribution unit with nozzles to blow fluid against the crematory floor and corners. The nozzles are directed such that the cremains are moved toward and out of the crematory opening. All components of the tool are metal to withstand extreme heat.