Sliding Spark Arrestor Assembly for Precise Airflow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for heat source-containing vessels, such as cooking grills and fireplaces, are inadequate in arresting sparks and ash, and fail to precisely control ventilation and air flow.
Innovation Solution
A spark arrestor assembly with a base plate, cover plate, and spark arrestor that are slidably mated in channels, allowing independent adjustment to control airflow and prevent sparks and ash from escaping, while also enabling precise temperature control by varying the opening coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single fixed spark arrestor is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot precisely control airflow and temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making both the cover plate and spark arrestor slidable relative to each other along channels. This allows the assembly to transition from a fixed configuration to a dynamic, adjustable system where users can precisely control airflow by positioning the components at different locations, thereby resolving the contradiction between operational precision and structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the spark arrestor assembly into distinct movable components (cover plate and spark arrestor) that can be independently positioned. This segmentation enables precise airflow control through multiple configuration options while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure, as each component performs a specific function and can be adjusted without moving the entire assembly.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single movable door is used for access, then the structure is simpler, but it cannot provide independent control of airflow and spark arrestion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing the cover plate and spark arrestor to serve dual purposes: they act as access doors for fuel addition and simultaneously function as independent airflow control mechanisms. This allows a single assembly to provide multiple control configurations (fully open, partially open, fully closed) for both access and airflow management, thereby increasing adaptability without proportionally increasing component count.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the spark arrestor completely covers the opening, then sparks are effectively arrested, but airflow control precision is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The slidable design allows the spark arrestor to dynamically adjust its position, enabling users to achieve optimal balance between spark arrestion effectiveness and airflow control precision. The component can be positioned to completely cover the opening for maximum spark protection or partially cover it for precise airflow regulation, providing adaptability to different operational requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for arresting spark and ash issuing from, and precisely controlling the ventilation of and temperature inside, a heat source-containing vessel such as a cooking grill, stove, oven, cooker, fireplace, heater, or firebox. The device comprises a spark arrestor assembly including a base plate, a cover plate, and a spark arrestor. The base plate defines an opening. The cover plate and spark arrestor are slidably mated in two channels formed in the base plate around the opening. The cover plate and spark arrestor may be adjusted to extend across or only partway across the opening as selected by a user of the device. Tabs are provided on the cover plate and spark arrestor for easy adjustment thereof. Tabs in the base plate are positioned to define a range of slidable motion of the cover plate and spark arrestor. The spark arrestor assembly engages a fire-containing or heat source-containing vessel over an opening defined by the vessel so that the vessel opening cooperates with the spark arrestor assembly opening.