Predictive Torch Refueling via Passive Overfill Valves
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Liquid fuel burning torches require frequent refilling and maintenance, posing safety hazards and logistical challenges, especially in commercial settings, and existing automatic refueling systems are costly and complex due to the need for electronic valves and sensors.
Innovation Solution
A liquid fuel burning torch system with a central reservoir and passive fuel overfill prevention valves, eliminating the need for remotely controlled electronic valves and fuel level sensors, using a predictive method to refill torches based on estimated burning time, and incorporating pressure and flow sensors for automated refueling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional electric lights are used for outdoor lighting, then lighting function is provided, but optimal ambiance is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses disposable liquid fuel cartridges instead of permanent electrical infrastructure. The fuel cartridges are inexpensive, replaceable units that provide both lighting and insect repellent functions, creating optimal ambiance without requiring complex electrical wiring or permanent installations.
2Ease of operation
If gas fueled torches are used, then easy extinguishment is achieved, but safety hazards and operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces dangerous permanent gas plumbing systems with disposable liquid fuel cartridges. These cartridges eliminate the risk of gas leaks and explosions while maintaining easy operation. When the fuel is consumed, the entire cartridge is simply replaced, removing the safety hazards associated with permanent gas infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the fuel storage from a centralized dangerous gas system and places it in individual sealed cartridges at each torch location. This extraction removes the safety hazards of gas plumbing while maintaining the ability to easily control each torch independently.
3Ease of operation
If gas plumbing systems are installed, then torch operation is enabled, but installation complexity and permitting requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses self-contained disposable fuel cartridges that require no professional installation. Each cartridge is a complete, pre-filled unit that can be installed by any user without requiring licensed plumbers, municipal permits, or connections to utility infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the fuel delivery system into individual independent cartridges for each torch, eliminating the need for a centralized gas plumbing system. This segmentation allows each torch to be installed and operated independently without complex infrastructure.
4Quantity of substance
If manual refilling of torches is performed, then fuel replenishment is achieved, but user maintenance time and logistical burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses disposable fuel cartridges pre-filled with sufficient fuel for extended operation. Users simply replace the entire cartridge when fuel is depleted, eliminating the time-consuming process of manual refilling and reducing logistical burden. The cartridges are designed to last through multiple torch replacements.
5Extent of automation
If automatic refueling systems with electronic valves and sensors are implemented, then refueling automation is achieved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses disposable fuel cartridges with integrated passive fuel transfer mechanisms that eliminate the need for expensive electronic valves and sensors. The cartridges are designed to transfer fuel automatically through simple mechanical or capillary action, providing refueling automation without complex electronics.
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 extended, uninterrupted burning of multiple torches with reduced user maintenance, eliminating the need for frequent refilling and logistical burdens, while ensuring safety and reducing operational costs by simplifying the refueling process.
Implementation Method 1
an automatic refueling system that refuels the torch or torches as needed by pumping liquid fuel from a central reservoir through a fuel plumbing system to the local fuel reservoirs of each of the torches
Implementation Method 2
Each of the torches includes a passive fuel overfill prevention valve (FOP valve) that is mechanically controlled by a local fuel level of the local quantity of fuel within the enclosed interior
Implementation Method 3
The pump is operated for the calibrated time period to deliver the predetermined quantity of liquid fuel to the torches, or until a pressure sensor detects a pressure increase that indicates that all of the FOP valves have closed
Implementation Method 4
a flow rate sensor in fluid communication with the fuel plumbing system and in communication with the controller, the flow rate sensor being configured to measure a flow rate of the liquid fuel within the fuel plumbing system
Implementation Method 5
liquid fuel burning torches that provide natural firelight
Data Source
AI summary
Torches are automatically refilled with a liquid fuel from a central reservoir pumped via a plumbing system, without directly monitoring local torch fuel levels. Instead, each torch includes a passive fuel overfill prevention valve. When refueling, the pump operates until all torches are filled. Refueling can cease after a set time, or when sensors report a backpressure and/or cessation of fuel flow. Pre-calibration establishes torch burning rates and/or maximum refill time. Time between refueling is predicted, based upon total burning time, which can be measured by torch heat sensors or determined according to a usage schedule or direct control of torch ignition and extinguishing by the controller. Reverse pumping can extinguish the torches, and wick ignitors can relight them sequentially. A service provider can monitor fuel consumption, establish a pattern of usage, and supply fuel in time to replenish the central reservoir, and/or other provide maintenance as needed.