Self-igniting Pyrotechnical Sparkler with Striking Igniter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sparklers are difficult to ignite safely, particularly for younger users, as they require an external flame source, which can be hazardous and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A self-igniting sparkler design featuring a pyrotechnic coating with a dedicated igniter composition at one end, allowing ignition by striking on a safety striking surface, utilizing a mixture of particulate potassium chloride, antimony sulfate, aluminum powder, magnesium, cellulose nitrate, and glass beads, with specific particle sizes and binder levels to ensure reliable ignition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a match or external flame is used to ignite the pyrotechnic material, then the sparkler can be ignited, but it takes time and creates safety hazards especially for younger persons
Solution Approach 1:
The sparkler is pre-equipped with an igniter composition at its end that is designed to strike against a safety striking surface. This preliminary preparation of the ignition mechanism eliminates the need for external flame sources and reduces ignition time, as the igniter is already in position and ready for immediate activation upon striking.
Solution Approach 2:
The sparkler performs its own ignition function through the integrated igniter composition that strikes against the safety striking surface. This self-service mechanism eliminates dependency on external flame sources, making the ignition process faster and safer, particularly for younger users who can independently activate the sparkler without adult supervision.
2Ease of operation
If a match or external flame is used to ignite the pyrotechnic material, then the sparkler can be ignited, but it creates safety hazards and requires careful handling away from the sparkling pyrotechnic
Solution Approach 1:
The sparkler is segmented into distinct functional zones: an igniter composition at the end for safe striking ignition, a pyrotechnic coating along the rod for spark production, and an uncoated handle portion for grip. This segmentation allows the igniter to be positioned away from the main pyrotechnic material, enabling safe ignition without direct exposure to the sparkling pyrotechnic that could burn fingers.
Solution Approach 2:
The igniter composition acts as an intermediary between the user's striking action and the main pyrotechnic material. When the user strikes the igniter against the safety striking surface, it creates a controlled initial burn that transfers heat to the pyrotechnic coating, thereby mediating the ignition process and reducing direct burn hazards to the user.
3Productivity
If the igniter composition is positioned directly over the pyrotechnic coating, then ignition efficiency is improved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The igniter composition is merged with the pyrotechnic coating structure by positioning the igniter directly over a portion of the pyrotechnic coating at the end of the rod. This merging ensures that when the igniter is struck, the heat directly activates the underlying pyrotechnic material, maximizing ignition efficiency. The coating is applied in a single continuous layer, avoiding structural complexity while achieving the desired functional integration.
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 enables quick, safe, and reliable ignition of sparklers, with high success rates (e.g., 95% ignition in preferred embodiments), reducing the risk of burns and improving user safety by eliminating the need for an external flame.
Implementation Method 1
The composition is ignited by the use of a match or similar fire producing device which serves to initiate the pyrotechnic display of sparks emanating from the composition on the sparkler's rod
Implementation Method 2
A pyrotechnical igniter coating is positioned over the coating composition at the end opposite from the handle for striking a safety strike surface
Data Source
AI summary
A self igniting pyrotechnical sparkler. The sparkler includes a nonflammable support member or rod substantially covered with a pyrotechnic coating composition along one end and a pyrotechnical igniter coating covering over part of the pyrotechnic coating. The igniter coating including a mixture of potassium chlorate, antimony sulfate, powder aluminum, particulate magnesium, binder and/or glass beads.