Electrically Ignitable Propellant Electrode Ignition Control

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing digital propulsion systems rely on thermal igniters, which are inefficient and require complex ignition mechanisms, limiting the control and safety of combustion processes in applications like thrusters and explosives.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus using electrically ignitable propellants with electrodes that initiate and control combustion through electrical power, eliminating the need for thermal igniters and allowing for variable combustion rates and geometries, including the use of pressurization devices for safe two-stage ignition.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If thermal igniters are used in digital propulsion systems, then combustion can be initiated, but the ignition mechanism becomes complex and control efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecombustion initiation reliabilityVSAvoidignition mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes thermal igniters and complex ignition mechanisms from the system, replacing them with electrically ignitable propellants that can be directly ignited by electrodes through electrical discharge, thereby simplifying the ignition mechanism while maintaining reliable combustion initiation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical/thermal ignition systems with an electrical ignition system where electrodes deliver electrical energy to initiate combustion of the electrically ignitable propellant, substituting a complex mechanical ignition mechanism with a simpler electrical control system

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If thermal igniters are used, then combustion can be started, but control precision and safety of combustion processes deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecombustion control capabilityVSAvoidcombustion safety

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces thermal igniters with electrical electrodes that can precisely control combustion timing and duration through electrical signals, improving both ease of operation and safety by enabling accurate control of combustion processes without the delays and uncertainties of thermal ignition systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables dynamic control of combustion processes by allowing electrodes to be activated at precise moments and for specific durations, providing real-time control over combustion timing and intensity, which enhances both operational flexibility and safety

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If complex ignition mechanisms are used, then combustion can be initiated, but system cost and manufacturing complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveignition reliabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent eliminates complex ignition mechanisms and thermal igniters from the system, using only simple electrodes to ignite the electrically ignitable propellant, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining reliable ignition through the inherent properties of the propellant

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses simple, inexpensive electrodes that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed, replacing complex and expensive thermal igniter systems with affordable electrical components that simplify manufacturing processes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

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 controlled combustion in various applications, including thrusters and explosives, with improved safety and efficiency by using electrical power to ignite and manage propellant combustion, reducing the need for complex ignition systems and enhancing scalability and cost-effectiveness.

Implementation Method 1

two (or more) electrodes operable to ignite the propellant... a power supply and controller in electrical communication with the electrodes for supplying a potential across the electrodes to initiate combustion of the propellant

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectJoule heating: Joule Heating

Data Source

PatentUS8857338B2Electrode ignition and control of electrically ignitable materials

Publication Date: 2014.10.14 DIGITAL SOLID STATE PROPULSION INC

AI summary

Apparatus for providing electrically initiated and/or controlled combustion of electrically ignitable propellants is provided. In one example, the apparatus includes a volume of electrically ignitable propellant (liquid and/or gas) capable of self sustaining combustion, and electrodes operable to ignite the propellant. The apparatus may further include a power supply and controller in electrical communication with the electrodes for supplying a potential across the electrodes to initiate combustion of the propellant and/or control the rate of combustion of the propellant. Various configurations and geometries of the propellant, electrodes, and apparatus are possible. In one example, the electrodes are supplied a direct current, which causes combustion of the propellant at the positive electrode. In another example, the electrodes are supplied an alternating current, which initiates combustion of the propellant at both electrodes.