Venting Apparatus Thermoelectric Generator Candle Soot
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containerized candles suffer from inefficient combustion leading to soot accumulation and inadequate thermal dissipation, causing inconsistent performance and overheating of electrical devices due to mechanical control of decorative structures and suboptimal venting designs.
Innovation Solution
A venting apparatus incorporating a thermoelectric generator (TEG) that engages with a candle container, featuring exhaust apertures flush with the heat collector to prevent heat buildup, allowing for controlled thermal dissipation and selective movement of decorative elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical structures are used to move decorative aspects directly by candle exhaust, then the decorative structure can be moved, but the structure accumulates soot and performance becomes inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the direct mechanical drive system (where candle exhaust directly rotates mechanical decorative elements) with an electrical control system. A thermoelectric generator converts thermal energy to electrical energy, which then powers electric motors or actuators to move the decorative structures. This substitution eliminates direct contact between exhaust gases and mechanical components, preventing soot accumulation while maintaining controlled movement capability.
2Device complexity
If venting structures allow heat to billow directly above the candle flame, then the structure is simple, but heat pockets form and overheat electrical devices
Solution Approach 1:
The venting structure is segmented into multiple functional zones: an upper exhaust opening positioned above the ceiling for thermal dissipation, and lateral exhaust openings for side ventilation. This segmentation allows different portions of the housing to handle different thermal loads and flow patterns, effectively preventing heat pocket formation while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a vertical dimension to the exhaust system by positioning the upper exhaust opening above the ceiling rather than only at the sides. This dimensional change creates a direct thermal escape path vertically, preventing heat accumulation in the enclosed space while maintaining structural simplicity.
3Ease of manufacture
If exhaust openings are positioned below the ceiling, then the venting structure is simpler, but heat pockets form above the flame
Solution Approach 1:
The housing structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, contains lateral exhaust openings for side ventilation, and incorporates an upper exhaust opening above the ceiling for vertical thermal dissipation. This multi-functionality ensures effective thermal management while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through integrated design.
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 effectively reduces soot accumulation and overheating by enhancing thermal dissipation, providing consistent and controlled motion of decorative structures, ensuring stable operation of electrical devices.
Implementation Method 1
A venting apparatus having a thermoelectric generator for controlling a decorative structure
Implementation Method 2
a heat collector on a first side thereof
Implementation Method 3
a plurality of exhaust apertures having an upper edge flush with a surface of the heat collector, thereby inhibiting heat build-up
Data Source
AI summary
A venting apparatus for a containerized candle is disclosed. The venting apparatus includes a thermoelectric device in thermal communication to a heat collector on a first side thereof, and a venting housing structure configured to engage a lip of the containerized candle, wherein the venting housing structure comprises a plurality of exhaust apertures having an upper edge flush with a surface of the heat collector.