Liquid Fuel Torch System with Automated Refueling and Flow Reversal Extinguishing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid fuel burning torches require frequent manual refilling, pose safety hazards during refilling, and lack efficient automated extinguishing mechanisms, making them inconvenient and unsafe for prolonged use in outdoor settings.
Innovation Solution
An automatic torch refueling system that pumps liquid fuel from a central reservoir to interconnected torches, including a controller for remote monitoring and automated refilling, and reverses fuel flow to safely extinguish the torches by draining fuel from the tanks, ensuring reliable and remote-controlled operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If manual refilling of liquid fuel in torches is performed, then the torches can operate continuously, but frequent manual intervention is required and safety hazards occur during refilling
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service through an automated refueling mechanism where a pump automatically transfers liquid fuel from a central reservoir to the torches when fuel levels are low, eliminating the need for frequent manual refilling operations
Solution Approach 2:
An automated pump system acts as an intermediary between the central fuel reservoir and the torches, mediating the fuel transfer process and enabling continuous operation without direct human intervention in the refueling process
2Duration of action of stationary object
If manual refilling of liquid fuel in torches is performed, then the torches can operate continuously, but safety hazards occur during refilling
Solution Approach 1:
The automated refueling system performs self-service fueling operations, eliminating human presence near burning torches during refilling and thereby removing the safety hazards associated with manual refilling of flammable liquid fuel
Solution Approach 2:
The automated pump system serves as a safe intermediary that handles the dangerous task of transferring flammable liquid fuel, isolating humans from the safety hazards of refilling operations near open flames
3Ease of operation
If automated refueling system is implemented, then manual intervention is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump system performs multiple functions - it automatically refuels torches when needed and can also extinguish them by reversing flow - which justifies the added complexity through versatile operational capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms through fuel level sensors that monitor torch fuel levels and automatically trigger refueling operations, creating a self-regulating system that reduces manual intervention despite increased complexity
4Extent of automation
If fuel flow is reversed to extinguish torches, then automated extinguishing is achieved, but fuel must be drained from tanks
Solution Approach 1:
The system recovers fuel by draining it from the torch tanks back to the central reservoir during the extinguishing process, preventing waste and making the fuel available for future use
Solution Approach 2:
The pump reverses its normal flow direction to drain fuel from the torches back to the reservoir, using the same infrastructure in reverse to achieve extinguishing while recovering the fuel substance
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 system allows for continuous operation of liquid fuel burning torches with automated refilling and extinguishing, reducing manual intervention, enhancing safety, and enabling remote monitoring and control, thus addressing the limitations of conventional torches.
Implementation Method 1
causing the fuel pumping system to pump the fuel in a forward flow direction from the central reservoir through the torch plumbing system and the standpipes to the local fuel reservoirs of each of the torches
Implementation Method 2
causing the fuel pumping system to reverse the flow direction of the fuel in the torch plumbing system and standpipes, so that the fuel is pumped from the local fuel reservoirs of the torches through the standpipes and the torch plumbing system to the central fuel reservoir
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid fuel burning torch system maintains fuel within one or more torches by pumping fuel from a central reservoir to the torches via a plumbing system. The torches can be extinguished by reversing the flow of the fuel in the plumbing system, for example by reversing a pumping direction of the pump, switching pumps, or actuating flow reversal valves. The torches can include remotely controlled torch igniting mechanisms, wireless access for remote torch monitoring and/or control, and/or heat sensors for determining whether the torch is burning. The torches can include fuel overfill prevention (FOP) valves. A flow of fuel through the FOP valves can be directed so as to avoid impinging on plugs of the FOP valves. The FOP valves can include check valves that allow fuel to be drained from the torches even when the FOP valves are closed.