Ultrasonic Transducer Simulated Flame Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for creating simulated flames in non-flammable candles and other applications are not cost-effective or compact enough to produce a realistic flame effect, especially in enclosed spaces where real flames are undesirable.
Innovation Solution
A transducer, such as a piezoelectric transducer, modulates a liquid into a mist or aerosol, which is then shaped and illuminated by a colored light source to create a simulated flame effect, with a controller varying the mist's rate and light characteristics to mimic a dancing flame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional simulated flame methods are used, then the flame effect can be achieved, but the device becomes expensive and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical flame generation systems with a piezoelectric transducer that uses ultrasonic vibrations to generate mist. This substitution eliminates the need for bulky mechanical components while maintaining the simulated flame effect, directly resolving the contradiction between cost-effectiveness and device compactness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of liquid from bulk form to fine mist through ultrasonic vibration frequency modulation. By controlling the transducer's vibration parameters, the system generates realistic flame-like mist patterns in a compact configuration, achieving both affordability and space efficiency.
2Reliability
If a piezoelectric transducer is used to generate mist, then a realistic flame effect is achieved, but the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the liquid delivery system and mist generation function into a single integrated transducer assembly. The piezoelectric transducer directly contacts the liquid reservoir and generates mist through vibrations, merging multiple functions into one component to reduce overall system complexity while maintaining realistic flame effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the transducer's own vibrations to both pump liquid and generate mist simultaneously. The ultrasonic vibrations serve dual purposes: drawing liquid from the reservoir and atomizing it into flame-like patterns, eliminating the need for separate pumping mechanisms and reducing system complexity.
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 provides a cost-effective and compact means to create a realistic simulated flame, suitable for various applications, including candles, fireplaces, and other environments where real flames are impractical or prohibited, offering a safe and aesthetically pleasing alternative.
Implementation Method 1
A transducer, such as a piezoelectric transducer, modulates a liquid into a mist or aerosol
Implementation Method 2
An exemplary transducer may be a piezoelectric transducer. The liquid from a liquid reservoir within the housing may be in contact with the transducer surface directly
Data Source
AI summary
An artificial flame apparatus produces a simulated flame using a plume of mist that is illuminated around, about, and through an artificial wick. A mist may be produced by a transducer, such as an ultrasonic transducer that is in contact with liquid from a liquid reservoir. The rate of mist exiting the housing may be modulated to produce a more realistic looking artificial flame. A light source is configured to illuminate the mist and/or the artificial wick. The artificial wick may be in the shape of a wick or flame and may include a light source. One or more light sources may be configured as the artificial wick. The light intensity, color and rate of change of light may be modulated to produce a more realistic looking artificial flame. A standing wave tube may vary the rate of mist exiting one or more enclosure openings in the tube enclosure.