Method and apparatus of coordinating operational feedback in a plasma cutter

Abstract

The present invention is directed to a system and method for improved operational feedback from a plasma torch to a plasma-cutting power source. A plasma cutter includes a plasma cutting power source, a plasma torch in communication with the plasma cutting power source, and a serialization circuit disposed within the plasma torch to control transmission of multiple feedback signals from the plasma torch to the plasma cutting power source. The serialization circuit receives the multiple feedback signals and places the feedback in a queue, such that the multiple feedback signals are sent from the queue to a processing unit in the power source via a single communications link.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] The present application is continuation of and claims priority to U.S. Ser. No. 10 / 605,038 filed Sep. 3, 2003.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates generally to plasma cutting systems and, more particularly, to a method and apparatus for coordinating operational feedback in a plasma cutter. Specifically, the present invention provides a system and method of serializing feedback from a plasma-cutting torch to a plasma-cutting power source. [0003] Plasma cutting is a process in which an electric arc is used to cut a workpiece. Plasma cutters typically include a power source, an air supply, and a torch. The torch or plasma torch is used to create and maintain the arc and plasma that perform the cutting. The plasma cutting power source receives an input voltage from a transmission power line or generator and provides an output voltage to a pair of output terminals, one of which is connected to an electrode and the...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

However, while it is common to provide a cup-attached signal before permitting operational cutting, the number of feedbacks is limited by the parallel feedback system.

As such, though additional sensors could be included to provide additional feedback regarding the plasma cutting process, the number of sensors to provide feedback is limited by the number of parallel communications links.

Second, plasma cutters are regularly subjected to harsh operating conditions associated with the operating environment in which they are placed and the nature of plasma cutting.

As a result of these typically callous operating environments, it is possible for one of the communications lines to fail as a result of repeated percussions.

Furthermore, it is not uncommon for the plasma torch to be regularly disconnected from the power source for cleaning and maintenance.

This repeated disconnection and reconnection can be particularly damaging to the electrical connections of the parallel feedback system.

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