Automatic Reset Flint Ignition Mechanism with Segmented Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flint ignition mechanisms for lighters are complex, require high precision, and are costly to produce, making them challenging to mass-produce while maintaining reliability and simplicity.
Innovation Solution
A push-button flint ignition mechanism with a built-in flint, grinding wheel, energy storage member, driving wheel, plucking portion, blocking member, and reset member, which allows for automatic reset and low-cost, simple construction with minimal parts, providing a tactile feel similar to electronic lighters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional flint ignition mechanisms are used, then reliability and ignition rate are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ignition mechanism is divided into functionally independent modules: a flint assembly with flint stone and holder, a driving assembly with button and driving wheel, and a spark generation assembly with steel wheel. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently while maintaining overall reliability, reducing the complexity of the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The flint assembly is extracted as a separate, replaceable module from the ignition mechanism. This allows the flint to be independently replaced when worn, maintaining ignition reliability without replacing the entire mechanism, thereby reducing long-term complexity and cost.
2Reliability
If conventional flint ignition mechanisms are used, then ignition reliability is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism is segmented into standardizable modules with clear interfaces, allowing each module to be manufactured separately using simple processes and then assembled. This improves ease of manufacture while maintaining the reliability of the complete ignition system.
Solution Approach 2:
The driving wheel and steel wheel are designed with universal features that can be manufactured using standard machining processes. The button mechanism provides a universal interface for user operation, simplifying manufacturing across different product variants while maintaining consistent ignition reliability.
3Reliability
If complex accessories are added to improve ignition function, then ignition reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The flint holder and flint assembly are merged into a single replaceable unit, eliminating the need for separate adjustment mechanisms and reducing accessory complexity. The driving wheel integrates both the driving function and the spark generation surface, combining multiple functions into one component.
Solution Approach 2:
The reset spring automatically resets the driving wheel to its initial position after each ignition cycle without requiring additional accessories or complex control mechanisms. The flint assembly is designed to be self-contained, requiring no additional adjustment accessories during operation.
4Reliability
If high precision is required for accessories, then ignition reliability is improved, but ease of manufacture and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism is segmented into modules with tolerant interfaces, allowing each module to be manufactured with lower precision requirements using simple machining processes. This enables high-volume production while maintaining reliable ignition performance through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The design parameters of the wheels and gears are optimized to provide adequate ignition reliability with relaxed tolerance requirements. The flint assembly uses parameters that allow for simple manufacturing processes, enabling high productivity in mass production while maintaining consistent ignition performance.
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 solution results in a reliable, high-ignition-rate mechanism with low manufacturing costs, easy mass production, and improved safety features, such as child-safety designs, while maintaining cleanliness and simplicity.
Implementation Method 1
an energy storage member (5) that stores energy through deformation
Implementation Method 2
ignition device that relies on frictional interactions between a steel wheel and a flint for spark generation
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A push-button type flint ignition mechanism that is capable of automatic reset, including: a built-in flint, a grinding wheel abutting the flint, an energy storage member that stores energy through deformation, a driving wheel rotating in the same direction as the grinding wheel when the energy storage member releases energy, a wheel axle about which the driving wheel rotates, a driving body pushed by the energy storage member when the energy storage member releases energy, a plucking portion located on the driving body and capable of plucking the driving wheel to make the driving wheel rotate, a blocking member capable of blocking the movement of the driving body, a moving member capable of making linear movements back and forth inside the mechanism and capable of squeezing the energy storage member to cause elastic deformation in the latter, and a reset member capable of pushing the moving member to reset; wherein, when no external force is exerted on the mechanism, the projections of the plucking portion and the driving wheel, respectively onto the plane perpendicular to the direction of movement by the moving member, do not overlap. Moreover, and optionally, when the energy storage member finishes releasing energy, the projections of the plucking portion and the driving wheel, respectively onto the plane perpendicular to the direction of movement by the moving member, do not overlap.