Flow channel cleaning apparatus

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a flow channel cleaning device for cleaning a flow channel, characterized in that the flow channel cleaning device comprises: a control mechanism, the control mechanism comprising: a gas cylinder; a telescopic valve; a pulse switch, the pulse switch having an on state and an off state; a first cam switch; a second cam switch; a first gas path, a second gas path, a third gas path, a fourth gas path, a fifth gas path and a sixth gas path; a cleaning mechanism, the cleaning mechanism comprising: a switching valve, the switching valve having an air passing state and a water passing state; a seventh gas path; a water path; a first air-water flow path; a second air-water flow path, the switching valve being capable of continuously switching between the air passing state and the water passing state when the pulse switch is on.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a flow channel cleaning device, and more particularly to a flow channel cleaning device for welding torches. Background Technology

[0002] Welding torches are a common piece of equipment in modern assembly operations. Typically operating at high temperatures, welding torches require cooling with water or other coolants. Therefore, welding torches are equipped with water channels. Over time, impurities in the water gradually accumulate, potentially causing blockages in these channels and reducing water flow. In current practice, this necessitates replacing the torch with a spare for offline maintenance. However, the replacement work and repair of clogged torches increase workload, extend production time, and reduce efficiency. Furthermore, the need for spare torches raises overall costs. In addition, there are potential safety risks for operators during the clearing of blockages. These are all highly disadvantageous factors. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a flow channel cleaning device is provided for cleaning flow channels, characterized in that the flow channel cleaning device comprises:

[0004] The control mechanism includes: a cylinder comprising a housing defining a cavity, a rod and a piston movable between an extended state and a retracted state, the rod being fixed to the piston, the piston being located within the cavity, dividing the cavity into a rod-mounted chamber and a rodless chamber, the rod having a connecting portion; and a telescopic valve, a two-position five-way valve having a first state and a second state, having ports D1, D2, D3, D4, and D5, including a first force-bearing part and a second force-bearing part, wherein: when the first force-bearing part is pushed by airflow, the telescopic valve is in the first state, and within the telescopic valve, ports D1 and D4 are connected, and ports D2 and D3 are connected. Port D5 is closed; when the second force-bearing part is pushed by airflow, the telescopic valve is in the second state, with ports D1 and D2 connected, ports D4 and D5 connected, and D3 closed; a pulse switch, which has an on state and an off state; a first cam switch, which has an on state and an off state, the first cam switch including a first protrusion on one side, when the first protrusion is pressed, the first cam switch is in the on state, when the first protrusion is not pressed, the first cam switch is in the off state; a second cam switch, which has an on state and an off state, the second cam... The switch includes a second protrusion on one side. When the second protrusion is pressed, the second cam switch is in the ON state; when the second protrusion is not pressed, the second cam switch is in the OFF state. It includes a first air passage, a second air passage, a third air passage, a fourth air passage, a fifth air passage, and a sixth air passage. One end of the first air passage is connected to a source for supplying water and air flow, and the other end of the first air passage is connected to port D1 of the telescopic valve. One end of the second air passage is connected to the first air passage, and the other end of the second air passage is connected to one of the first and second force-bearing parts of the telescopic valve. One end of the fourth air passage is connected to... The third air passage is connected, and the other end of the fourth air passage is connected to the other of the first force-bearing part and the second force-bearing part of the telescopic valve. One end of the fifth air passage is connected to port D2 of the telescopic valve, and the other end of the fifth air passage is connected to one of the rod chamber and the rodless chamber. One end of the sixth air passage is connected to port D4 of the telescopic valve, and the other end of the sixth air passage is connected to the other of the rod chamber and the rodless chamber. The pulse switch and the first cam switch are disposed in the second air passage to connect or disconnect the second air passage, and the second cam switch is disposed in the third air passage to connect or disconnect the third air passage.

[0005] The cleaning mechanism includes: a switching valve, which is a two-position three-way valve with an air-flow state and a water-flow state, and has ports E1, E2, and E3. The switching valve includes a third force-bearing part. When the third force-bearing part is pushed by airflow, the switching valve is in the air-flow state, with ports E1 and E2 connected and port E3 closed. When the third force-bearing part is not pushed by airflow, the switching valve is in the water-flow state, with ports E2 and E3 connected and port E1 closed. A seventh air passage, one end of which is connected to the source, and the other end of which is connected to port E1 of the switching valve. A water passage, one end of which is connected to the source, and the other end of which is connected to port E3 of the switching valve. A first air-water flow path, one end of which is connected to port E2 of the switching valve, and the other end of which is connected to the flow channel; a second air-water flow path, one end of which is connected to the source, and the other end of which is connected to the flow channel; a third air path, one end of which is connected to the first air path, and the other end of which is connected to the third force-bearing part of the switching valve; the piston stroke and the rod length are configured such that when the rod is in the retracted state, the joint of the rod presses the first protrusion, and when the rod is in the retracted state, the joint of the rod presses the second protrusion; when the pulse switch is turned on, the switching valve can continuously switch between the air-flow state and the water-flow state.

[0006] Preferably, the flow channel cleaning device further includes an air circuit switch, which is disposed in the first air circuit and configured to connect or disconnect the first air circuit.

[0007] Preferably, the flow channel cleaning device further includes a pressure regulator, which is installed in the first air path to control the air pressure in the first air path.

[0008] Preferably, the flow channel cleaning device further includes a throttle valve, which is disposed in the fifth air passage or the sixth air passage and configured to control the airflow rate in the fifth air passage or the sixth air passage.

[0009] Preferably, the piston or the cylinder housing is provided with a limiting member to restrict the piston stroke, such that the connection port between the sixth air passage and the cylinder and the connection port between the fifth air passage and the cylinder are located outside the piston stroke.

[0010] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a flow channel cleaning device is provided for cleaning flow channels, characterized in that the flow channel cleaning device comprises:

[0011] The control mechanism includes: a cylinder comprising a housing defining a cavity, a rod and a piston movable between an extended state and a retracted state, the rod being fixed to the piston, the piston being located within the cavity, dividing the cavity into a rod-mounted chamber and a rodless chamber, the rod having a connecting portion; and a telescopic valve, a two-position five-way valve having a first state and a second state, having ports D1, D2, D3, D4, and D5, including a first force-bearing part and a second force-bearing part, wherein: when the first force-bearing part is pushed by airflow, the telescopic valve is in the first state, and within the telescopic valve, ports D1 and D4 are connected, and ports D2 and D3 are connected. Port D5 is closed; when the second force-bearing part is pushed by airflow, the telescopic valve is in the second state, with ports D1 and D2 connected, ports D4 and D5 connected, and D3 closed; a pulse switch, which has an on state and an off state; a first cam switch, which has an on state and an off state, the first cam switch including a first protrusion on one side, when the first protrusion is pressed, the first cam switch is in the on state, when the first protrusion is not pressed, the first cam switch is in the off state; a second cam switch, which has an on state and an off state, the second cam... The switch includes a second protrusion on one side. When the second protrusion is pressed, the second cam switch is in the ON state; when the second protrusion is not pressed, the second cam switch is in the OFF state. It includes a first air passage, a second air passage, a third air passage, a fourth air passage, a fifth air passage, and a sixth air passage. One end of the first air passage is connected to a source for supplying water and air flow, and the other end of the first air passage is connected to port D1 of the telescopic valve. One end of the second air passage is connected to the first air passage, and the other end of the second air passage is connected to one of the first and second force-bearing parts of the telescopic valve. One end of the fourth air passage is connected to... The third air passage is connected, and the other end of the fourth air passage is connected to the other of the first force-bearing part and the second force-bearing part of the telescopic valve. One end of the fifth air passage is connected to port D2 of the telescopic valve, and the other end of the fifth air passage is connected to one of the rod chamber and the rodless chamber. One end of the sixth air passage is connected to port D4 of the telescopic valve, and the other end of the sixth air passage is connected to the other of the rod chamber and the rodless chamber. The pulse switch and the first cam switch are disposed in the second air passage to connect or disconnect the second air passage, and the second cam switch is disposed in the third air passage to connect or disconnect the third air passage.

[0012] The cleaning mechanism includes: a switching valve, which is a two-position three-way valve with air-flow and water-flow states, and has ports E1, E2, and E3. The switching valve includes a third force-bearing part; when the third force-bearing part is pushed by airflow, the switching valve is in the air-flow state, with ports E1 and E2 connected and port E3 closed; when the third force-bearing part is not pushed by airflow, the switching valve is in the water-flow state, with ports E2 and E3 connected and port E1 closed; and a seventh air passage, one end of which is connected to the source, and the other end of which is connected to port E1 of the switching valve. The system includes: a water path, one end of which is connected to the source, and the other end connected to port E3 of the switching valve; a first air-water flow path; a second air-water flow path; a third air path, one end of which is connected to the first air path, and the other end of which is connected to the third force-bearing part of the switching valve; the piston stroke and the rod length are configured such that when the rod is in the retracted state, the joint of the rod presses against the first protrusion, and when the rod is in the retracted state, the joint of the rod presses against the second protrusion; and when the pulse switch is turned on, the switching valve can continuously switch between an air-flowing state and a water-flowing state.

[0013] The flow channel cleaning equipment also includes a reversing mechanism, which comprises: a first reversing valve, which is a two-position three-way valve with a first state and a second state, and has ports F1, F2, and F3. The first reversing valve includes a fourth force-receiving part. When the fourth force-receiving part is pushed by the airflow, the first reversing valve is in the first state, with ports F1 and F2 connected and port F3 closed. When the fourth force-receiving part is not pushed by the airflow, the first reversing valve is in the second state, with ports F2 and F3 connected and port F1 closed. A second reversing valve... The second directional valve is a two-position three-way valve with a first state and a second state. It has ports G1, G2, and G3. The second directional valve includes a fifth force-bearing part. When the fifth force-bearing part is pushed by airflow, the second directional valve is in the first state, with ports G1 and G2 connected and port G3 closed. When the fifth force-bearing part is not pushed by airflow, the second directional valve is in the second state, with ports G2 and G3 connected and port G1 closed. An eighth air passage is also included, with one end connected to the first air passage and the other end connected to... The fifth force-bearing part; the ninth air passage, one end of which is connected to the eighth air passage and the other end of which is connected to the fourth force-bearing part; a reversing switch, which has an on state and an off state, and is provided in the eighth air passage to connect or disconnect the eighth air passage; the third air-water flow path, one end of which is connected to port F1 and the other end of which is connected to the second air-water flow path, one end of which is connected to the source and the other end of which is connected to port G3; A fourth gas-water flow path, one end of which is connected to port F3, and the other end of which is connected to the first gas-water flow path. One end of the first gas-water flow path is connected to port E2 of the switching valve, and the other end of the first gas-water flow path is connected to port G1. A fifth gas-water flow path, one end of which is connected to port F2, and the other end of which is connected to the flow channel. A sixth gas-water flow path, one end of which is connected to port G2, and the other end of the sixth gas-water flow path is connected to the flow channel. Attached Figure Description

[0014] This disclosure will be better understood after reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] Figure 1 This schematically illustrates a design drawing of a flow channel cleaning apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 2 This is a schematic enlarged view of a portion of the flow channel cleaning apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 3This is a schematic enlarged view of a portion of the flow channel cleaning apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 4 This schematically illustrates a design diagram of a flow channel cleaning device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the pulse switch is in the off state and the telescopic valve is in the second state;

[0019] Figure 5 This schematically illustrates a design drawing of a flow channel cleaning device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the pulse switch is in the ON state and the telescopic valve is in the second state;

[0020] Figure 6 This schematically illustrates a design diagram of a flow channel cleaning device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the pulse switch is in the ON state and the telescopic valve is in the first state;

[0021] Figure 7 This schematically illustrates a design diagram of a flow channel cleaning apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the reversing switch is in the off state;

[0022] Figure 8 This schematically illustrates a design diagram of a flow channel cleaning apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the reversing switch is in the ON state;

[0023] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the layout of a flow channel cleaning apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate several embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure can be presented in many different ways and is not limited to the embodiments described below; in fact, the embodiments described below are intended to make the disclosure more complete and to fully illustrate the scope of protection of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. It should also be understood that the embodiments disclosed herein can be combined in various ways to provide more additional embodiments. Furthermore, the drawings are merely illustrative of embodiments and are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0025] It should be understood that the same reference numerals denote the same elements in all the accompanying drawings. The terminology used in this specification is for describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. All terms used in this specification (including technical and scientific terms) have the meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art unless otherwise defined. For the sake of brevity and / or clarity, well-known functions or structures may not be described in detail.

[0026] In the specification, spatial relation terms such as "up," "down," "left," "right," "front," "back," "high," and "low" describe the relationship between one feature and another in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that spatial relation terms include not only the orientation shown in the drawings but also the different orientations of the device during use or operation. For example, when the device in the drawings is inverted, a feature previously described as "below" other features can now be described as "above" other features. The device can also be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), in which case the relative spatial relationships will be explained accordingly.

[0027] The following reference Figure 1 A flow channel cleaning apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is described.

[0028] like Figure 1 As shown, the flow channel cleaning equipment includes a control mechanism 100, a cleaning mechanism 200, and an air circuit switch 300. Figure 1 Source 10 can supply gas and water at a certain pressure. For example, the pressure of the gas supplied by source 10 is 12 bar. Gas circuit switch 300 is connected to the gas circuit of source 10. When gas circuit switch 300 is turned on, the gas supplied by source 10 passes through gas circuit switch 300 and is supplied to control mechanism 100 and cleaning mechanism 200 respectively at three-way pipe X1. Control mechanism 100 includes gas circuits 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, and 106 (… Figure 2 The system includes pulse switch 107, cam switches 108 and 109, telescopic valve 110, cylinder 111, throttle valve 112, and pressure gauge 113. Air passage 101 (first air passage) is connected to air passage switch 300. Air passage 102 (second air passage) connects to air passage 101 at three-way pipe X2, and air passage 103 (third air passage) connects to air passage 101 at three-way pipe X3. Pulse switch 107 and cam switch 108 are located in air passage 102. Cam switch 109 is located in air passage 103. Air passage 104 (fourth air passage, see...) Figure 1 The dotted line in the diagram connects to the air passage 103 at the three-way pipe X4, and the telescopic valve 110 is connected to the air passages 101, 102 and 104.

[0029] In this embodiment, the pulse switch 107 is in the form of a two-position three-way valve, having an on state ( Figure 2 (left position in the middle) and disconnected state ( Figure 2The pulse switch 107 (located on the right side) has ports A1, A2, and A3. Ports A1 and A2 of the pulse switch 107 are connected to the pneumatic passage 102. The pulse switch 107 is operated by the operator, and may include a spring button, for example. When the operator presses the button of the pulse switch 107, the pulse switch 107 becomes closed, and ports A1 and A2 are connected, while A3 is closed. When the operator presses the button of the pulse switch 107 again, the pulse switch 107 becomes open, and ports A2 and A3 are connected, while A1 is closed.

[0030] Cam switch 108 is a self-resetting switch, in the form of a two-position three-way valve, with an on state ( Figure 2 (the upper position in the middle) and disconnected state ( Figure 2 The lower part of the cam switch 108 has ports B1, B2, and B3. Ports B1 and B2 of the cam switch 108 are connected to the air passage 102. The cam switch 108 includes an upper protrusion 1081 and a lower spring 1082. When the protrusion 1081 is pressed downward, the cam switch 108 is in the ON state, with ports B1 and B2 connected and B3 closed inside the cam switch 108. When the protrusion 1081 is not pressed, the cam switch 108 moves upward under the action of the spring 1082 and becomes OFF, with ports B2 and B3 connected and B1 closed inside the cam switch 108.

[0031] Cam switch 109 is a self-resetting switch, in the form of a two-position three-way valve, with an on state ( Figure 2 (the upper position in the middle) and disconnected state ( Figure 2 The lower part of the cam switch 109 has ports C1, C2, and C3. Ports C1 and C2 of the cam switch 109 are connected to the air passage 103. The cam switch 109 includes an upper protrusion 1091 and a lower spring 1092. When the protrusion 1091 is pressed downward, the cam switch 109 is in the ON state, and ports C1 and C2 are connected, while C3 is closed. When the protrusion 1091 is not pressed, the cam switch 109 moves upward under the action of the spring 1092 and becomes OFF, and ports C2 and C3 are connected, while C1 is closed.

[0032] Cylinder 111 includes a housing defining a cavity, and is provided with a horizontally movable rod 1111 and piston 1112. Rod 1111 and piston 1112 are fixed to each other. Piston 1112 is located in the cavity, dividing the cavity into two chambers: a rod chamber 1113 and a rodless chamber 1114. Rod chamber 1113 communicates with air passage 105 (fifth air passage), and rodless chamber 1114 communicates with air passage 106 (sixth air passage). Rod 1111 extends horizontally from rod chamber 1113 toward cam switches 108, 109 to the outside of cylinder 111's housing. Due to the pressure difference between rod chamber 1113 and rodless chamber 1114, rod 1111 is able to move horizontally between an extended position and a retracted position integrally with piston 1112. Limiting members, such as bosses, are provided on both sides of the piston 1112 to limit the stroke of the piston 1112 so as not to obstruct the communication between the air passages 106 and 105 and the cylinder 111. That is, the communication ports between the air passages 106 and 111 and between the air passages 105 and 111 are located outside the stroke of the piston 1112. The stroke of the piston 1112 and the length of the rod 1111 are configured such that the rod 1111 presses down on the protrusion 1091 of the cam switch 109 when it is in the extended position, and presses down on the protrusion 1081 of the cam switch 108 when it is in the retracted position. The rod 1111 has a joint, such as a protrusion, which is configured to press down on the protrusion 1091 when the rod is in the extended position and on the protrusion 1081 when the rod is in the retracted position. A throttle valve 112 is provided in the air passage 106. Throttling valve 112 is used to control the airflow in air passage 106 in order to control the movement speed of lever 1111.

[0033] The telescopic valve 110 is in the form of a two-position five-way valve, used for the extension and retraction of the actuating rod 1111, and has a first state ( Figure 2 (left position in the middle) and second state ( Figure 2 The right-hand side of the valve 110 has ports D1, D2, D3, D4, and D5. Port D1 is connected to air passage 101, port D2 is connected to air passage 105, and port D4 is connected to air passage 106. The telescopic valve 110 includes a first force-receiving part 1101 on the left and a second force-receiving part 1102 on the right. When the first force-receiving part 1101 is pushed by airflow, the telescopic valve 110 enters a first state, in which ports D1 and D4 are connected, D2 and D3 are connected, and D5 is closed. When the second force-receiving part 1102 is pushed by airflow, the telescopic valve 110 enters a second state, in which ports D1 and D2 are connected, D4 and D5 are connected, and D3 is closed.

[0034] A pressure regulator 113 is located in the gas path 101, downstream of and close to the tee pipe X1. The pressure regulator 113 is configured to control the gas pressure in the control mechanism 100, ensuring that the gas pressure in the control mechanism 100 is lower than the gas pressure in the cleaning mechanism 200. For example, if the gas pressure supplied from source 10 is 12 bar, the gas pressure in the gas path 101 will decrease to 6 bar after passing through the pressure regulator 113. Since the gas in the control mechanism 100 does not participate in the cleaning process, it does not need to have the same gas pressure as the cleaning mechanism 200. Lowering the gas pressure in the control mechanism 100 saves energy and reduces costs.

[0035] The cleaning mechanism 200 includes an air path 201 (seventh air path), a water path 202, an air-water flow path 203 (first air-water flow path), 204 (second air-water flow path), and a switching valve 205. Air path 201 is connected to a three-way pipe X1 and switching valve 205; water path 202 is connected to the power source 10 and switching valve 205; air-water flow path 203 is connected to the welding torch 400 and switching valve 205; and air-water flow path 204 is connected to the welding torch 400 and power source 10. A one-way valve is provided in air path 201 to prevent reverse flow.

[0036] The switching valve 205 is self-resetting, in the form of a two-position three-way valve, and has an air-venting state ( Figure 3 (left side of the middle) and water flow status ( Figure 3 The right-hand side of the switching valve 205 has ports E1, E2, and E3. Port E1 of the switching valve 205 is connected to the air passage 201, port E2 is connected to the air-water flow passage 203, and port E3 is connected to the water passage 202. The switching valve 205 includes a third force-bearing part on the left side, which is connected to the air passage 103 and can be pushed by gas from the air passage 103. A one-way valve is provided in the air passage 103 to prevent reverse flow.

[0037] When the third force-bearing part is pushed by the airflow from the air passage 103, the switching valve 205 enters the venting state, with ports E1 and E2 connected and E3 closed inside the switching valve 205. The cleaning airflow flows from the air passage 201 through port E1, switching valve 205, port E2, air-water flow passage 203, welding torch 400, and air-water flow passage 204, returning to the source 10 to complete the cycle. In the venting state, the flow channels inside the welding torch 400 are cleaned by the high-pressure airflow.

[0038] When the third force-bearing part is not pushed by the airflow, the switching valve 205 returns to the water-flowing state under the action of the spring. Ports E2 and E3 are connected inside the switching valve 205, while E1 is closed. Cleaning water flows from water path 202 through port E3, switching valve 205, port E2, air-water flow path 203, welding torch 400, and air-water flow path 204, returning to source 10 to complete the cycle. In the water-flowing state, the internal channels of the welding torch 400 are cleaned by high-pressure water.

[0039] By using gas from the air passage 103 of the control mechanism 100 to push the third force-bearing part of the switching valve 205 at a certain frequency, the switching valve 205 is switched between the air-flow state and the water-flow state, thereby using pulsed high-pressure airflow and high-pressure water flow to alternately clean the flow channel inside the welding torch 400.

[0040] The control process of control mechanism 100 is described below.

[0041] like Figure 4 As indicated by the arrow, in the initial state, the telescopic valve 110 is in the second state ( Figure 4 (Right position in the middle), the rod 1111 of cylinder 111 is in the retracted state. At this time, the protrusion 1091 of cam switch 109 is not pressed down, and cam switch 109 is in the off state ( Figure 4 (Lower position in the middle). The protrusion 1081 of the cam switch 108 is pressed downward by the engagement portion of the rod 1111, and the cam switch 108 is in the ON state. Figure 4 (The upper position in the middle).

[0042] After the pneumatic switch 300 is turned on, the pulse switch 107 is in the off state when the operator does not press the button on the pulse switch 107. The airflow from source 10 flows along... Figure 4 The airflow, as indicated by the arrow, flows through the air circuit switch 300 and pressure gauge 113 to the three-way pipe X3. Since the cam switch 109 is in the off state, the airflow continues along the air circuit 101 to the three-way pipe X2. Although the cam switch 108 is in the on state, because the pulse switch 107 is in the off state, the airflow continues along the air circuit 101 to the telescopic valve 110. The telescopic valve 110 is in its second state, with ports D1 and D2 connected, D4 and D5 connected, and D3 closed. Therefore, the airflow flows through ports D1 and D2 and air circuit 105 into the rod chamber 1113 of the cylinder 111. The gas pressure in the rod chamber 1113 is greater than the gas pressure in the rodless chamber 1114, allowing the rod 1111 to move to the left and remain in the retracted state. The gas in the rodless chamber 1114 can flow through the throttle valve in air circuit 106 to port D4 and continue to be discharged to the atmosphere through port D5. In this situation, there is no third force-bearing part of the gas pressure switching valve 205 in the gas path 103, the switching valve 205 is in the water-flow state, and the flow channel inside the welding torch 400 is cleaned by high-pressure water flow. Therefore, when the button of the pulse switch 107 is not pressed, the cleaning mechanism 200 uses high-pressure water flow to clean the flow channel inside the welding torch 400.

[0043] After the pneumatic switch 300 is turned on, when the operator presses the button on the pulse switch 107, the pulse switch 107 is in the on state. For example... Figure 5As indicated by the arrow, a portion of the airflow from source 10 flows along air path 102 through pulse switch 107 and cam switch 108 at the three-way pipe X2 to the first force-receiving part 1101 of the telescopic valve 110, pushing the first force-receiving part 1101. Therefore, the telescopic valve 110 enters its first state, with ports D1 and D4 connected, D2 and D3 connected, and D5 closed. At this time, as... Figure 6 As indicated by the arrow, the gas flowing along air passage 101 to port D1 flows into the rodless chamber 1114 of cylinder 111 via port D4 and air passage 106. The gas pressure in the rodless chamber 1114 is greater than the gas pressure in the rod chamber 1113, allowing rod 1111 to move to the right to the extended state. The gas in the rod chamber 1113 can flow to port D2 via air passage 105 and continue to be discharged to the atmosphere via port D3. In the extended state, rod 1111 releases downward pressure on cam switch 108, cam switch 108 becomes open, air passage 102 is disconnected, and the first force-bearing part 1101 of telescopic valve 110 is no longer subjected to the thrust of airflow.

[0044] When the extended lever 1111 is pressed down, the cam switch 109 is turned on, and the air passage 103 is connected. A portion of the airflow from source 10 flows along the air passage 103 through the cam switch 109 to the three-way pipe X4 at the three-way pipe X3. At the three-way pipe X4, a portion of the airflow flows through the air passage 103 to the third force-bearing part of the switching valve 205 and pushes against it, causing the switching valve 205 to enter the venting state. In the venting state, the flow channels inside the welding torch 400 are cleaned by the high-pressure airflow.

[0045] Meanwhile, another portion of the airflow at the three-way pipe X4 flows through air passage 104 to the second force-bearing part 1102 of the telescopic valve 110 and pushes the second force-bearing part 1102, causing the telescopic valve 110 to enter the second state. In the telescopic valve 110, ports D1 and D2 are connected, D4 and D5 are connected, and D3 is closed. At this time, the airflow flowing to port D1 through air passage 101 no longer flows into the rodless chamber 1114 through port D4, but flows into the rod chamber 1113 through port D2 and air passage 105, allowing the rod 1111 to move to the left to the retracted state. In the retracted state of the rod 1111, cam switch 108 and air passage 102 are connected, cam switch 109 and air passage 103 are disconnected, and no gas flows through air passage 103 to the third force-bearing part of the switching valve 205. The switching valve 205 then enters the water-passing state, and the flow channel inside the welding torch 400 is cleaned by high-pressure water flow. At the same time, the gas flows through the connected air passage 102 to the first force-receiving part 1101 of the telescopic valve 110 and pushes the first force-receiving part 1101, causing the telescopic valve 110 to change to the first state. The gas flowing along the air passage 101 to the port D1 flows into the rodless chamber 1114 of the cylinder 111 through the port D4 and the air passage 106, causing the rod 1111 to move to the right to the extended state, and so on in a cycle.

[0046] When the operator presses the button of pulse switch 107 again to disconnect pulse switch 107, if rod 1111 is in the retracted state, cam switch 109 is disconnected, and air passages 102 and 103 are both disconnected. Gas flows into rod chamber 1113 through air passage 105, keeping rod 1111 in the retracted state. If rod 1111 is in the extended state, cam switch 108 is disconnected, and cam switch 109 is connected. Gas flows through air passage 103, cam switch 109, and air passage 104 to the second force-receiving part 1102 of telescopic valve 110 and pushes the second force-receiving part 1102, causing telescopic valve 110 to change to the second state. Airflow from air passage 101 to port D1 flows into rod chamber 1113 through port D2 and air passage 105, allowing rod 1111 to move to the left to the retracted state. Therefore, after the pulse switch 107 is turned off, the rod 1111 will eventually stabilize in the retracted state, and the telescopic valve 110 will eventually change to the second state.

[0047] Therefore, when the button of the pulse switch 107 is pressed and the pulse switch 107 is turned on, the control mechanism 100 works, which allows the telescopic valve 110 to switch continuously between the first state and the second state, and the rod 1111 to move back and forth continuously between the extended state and the retracted state, causing the switching valve 205 to switch continuously between the air supply state and the water supply state, thereby using high-frequency high-pressure airflow and high-pressure waterflow to alternately clean the flow channel inside the welding torch 400.

[0048] The flow channel cleaning device of the first embodiment of this disclosure can conveniently clean the flow channel inside the welding torch on-site to prevent flow channel blockage. Even if the welding torch is blocked to a certain extent, the blockage can be cleared without replacing the welding torch with a spare. This saves workload, shortens production time, improves production efficiency, reduces total cost, and also eliminates safety risks for operators.

[0049] Furthermore, compared to cleaning channels using only high-pressure water flow, the channel cleaning equipment of the first embodiment of this disclosure uses high-frequency high-pressure airflow and high-pressure water flow to perform pulse cleaning alternately. By utilizing the pressure difference and vibration effect of the shock wave, it can efficiently clean various equipment and pipelines, and has the advantages of high efficiency, energy saving and environmental protection.

[0050] The following reference Figures 7 to 9 This description describes a flow channel cleaning apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein components identical to those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and perform the same functions. Only components different from those in the first embodiment will be described herein.

[0051] The flow channel cleaning device according to the second embodiment of this disclosure includes a control mechanism 100, a cleaning mechanism 200, an air circuit switch 300, and a reversing mechanism 500. The structure and function of the control mechanism 100, the cleaning mechanism 200, and the air circuit switch 300 are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0052] The reversing mechanism 500 includes air passages 501 and 502, air-water flow passages 504, 505, 511, and 512, reversing valves 508 and 509, and a reversing switch 510. Air passage 501 (eighth air passage) is connected to air passage 101 at a three-way pipe X5, which is located downstream of pressure regulator 113 and upstream of three-way pipe X3. Air passage 502 (ninth air passage) is connected to air passage 501 at a three-way pipe X6, and the reversing switch 510 is located in air passage 501, upstream of three-way pipe X6.

[0053] The directional control valve 508 (first directional control valve) is a two-position three-way valve, a self-resetting valve, and has a first state ( Figure 7 (left position in the middle) and second state ( Figure 7 The right-hand side of the directional control valve 508 has ports F1, F2, and F3. Port F1 of the directional control valve 508 is connected to the air-water flow path 511 (the third air-water flow path), port F2 is connected to the air-water flow path 504 (the fourth air-water flow path), and port F3 is connected to the air-water flow path 512 (the fifth air-water flow path). The directional control valve 508 has a fourth force-bearing part and a spring. Gas from the air path 502 can push the fourth force-bearing part. When the fourth force-bearing part of the directional control valve 508 is pushed by gas from the air path 502, the directional control valve 508 enters the first state, at which time ports F1 and F2 are connected, and port F3 is closed. When the gas pressure from the air path 502 is released, the directional control valve 508 enters the second state under the action of the spring, at which time ports F2 and F3 are connected, and port F1 is closed.

[0054] The reversing valve 509 (second reversing valve) is a two-position three-way valve, a self-resetting valve, and has a first state ( Figure 7 (left position in the middle) and second state ( Figure 7 The right-hand side of the directional control valve 509 has ports G1, G2, and G3. Port G1 of the directional control valve 509 is connected to the air-water flow path 203, port G2 is connected to the air-water flow path 505 (the sixth air-water flow path), and port G3 is connected to the air-water flow path 204. The directional control valve 509 has a fifth force-bearing part and a spring. Gas from the air path 501 can push the fifth force-bearing part. When the fifth force-bearing part of the directional control valve 509 is pushed by gas from the air path 501, the directional control valve 509 enters the first state, at which time ports G1 and G2 are connected, and port G3 is closed. When the gas pressure from the air path 501 is released, the directional control valve 509 enters the second state under the action of the spring, at which time ports G2 and G3 are connected, and port G1 is closed.

[0055] Air and water flow paths 203 and 512 are connected at T-junction X7, and air and water flow paths 204 and 511 are connected at T-junction X8. Air and water flow paths 504 and 505 are connected to the welding torch.

[0056] The working process of the flow channel cleaning device of the second embodiment is described below.

[0057] When the reversing switch 510 is not connected, such as Figure 7 As shown, there is no gas flow in gas paths 501 and 502, and directional valves 508 and 509 are in the second state, with ports F2 and F3 connected and ports G2 and G3 connected. High-pressure gas or water from source 10 flows through switching valve 205 along gas-water path 203 to port F3 of directional valve 508. Then, it flows from port F2 through gas-water path 504, welding torch 400, and gas-water path 505 to port G2 of directional valve 509. Finally, it flows from port G3 back to source 10 through gas-water path 204, completing the cycle.

[0058] When the reversing switch 510 is turned on, such as Figure 8 As shown, a portion of the gas in gas path 101 flows through gas paths 501 and 502 to the fourth force-bearing part of the reversing valve 508, while another portion of the gas flows through gas path 501 to the fifth force-bearing part of the reversing valve 509. Both reversing valves 508 and 509 are pushed by the airflow and enter the first state, at which time ports F1 and F2 are connected, and ports G1 and G2 are connected.

[0059] In this case, the high-pressure airflow or high-pressure waterflow in source 10 flows along air-water flow path 203 to port G1 of reversing valve 509 after passing through switching valve 205. Then, it flows from port G2 through air-water flow path 505, welding torch 400, and air-water flow path 504 to port F2 of reversing valve 508. Then, it flows from port F1 through air-water flow paths 511 and 204 back to source 10, completing the cycle.

[0060] As described above, when the reversing switch 510 is not activated, the high-pressure gas or water flow from source 10 flows into the welding torch 400 through the gas / water flow path 504 and exits from the welding torch 400 through the gas / water flow path 505. Conversely, when the reversing switch 510 is activated, the high-pressure gas or water flow from source 10 flows into the welding torch 400 through the gas / water flow path 505 and exits from the welding torch 400 through the gas / water flow path 504. Therefore, the reversing mechanism 500 achieves the switching of the cleaning direction of the welding torch 400.

[0061] According to the second embodiment of this disclosure, not only can all the advantages obtained according to the first embodiment be obtained, but the cleaning direction of the welding torch 400 can also be switched. By switching the cleaning direction of the high-pressure airflow or high-pressure waterflow, the flow channel of the welding torch can be cleaned more thoroughly.

[0062] The following reference Figure 9The layout of a flow channel cleaning apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure is described.

[0063] like Figure 9 As shown, the flow channel cleaning equipment has a housing, and on one side of the housing ( Figure 9 On the right side) a pneumatic switch 300 and three openings are arranged, namely the openings for pneumatic passage 101, water passage 202, and pneumatic-water flow passage 204. On the other side of the housing ( Figure 9 On the left side, openings for the air and water flow paths 504 and 505 leading to the welding torch are arranged. Inside the housing are arranged cylinder 111, telescopic valve 110, pulse switch 107, cam switch 108 and 109, pressure gauge 113, reversing switch 510, switching valve 205, and reversing valves 508 and 509. Figure 9 The design of the flow channel cleaning device according to the second embodiment of this disclosure allows for a compact arrangement in a space-saving manner.

[0064] The above describes two preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, but it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Various modifications will be conceived by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0065] In the embodiments described above, a pneumatic switch 300, a throttle valve 112, and a pressure gauge 113 are used; however, they are not essential. It is conceivable to omit them to save components, but this would not achieve the same effect as the embodiments of this disclosure. It is also conceivable that the throttle valve 112 is located in pneumatic passage 105 instead of pneumatic passage 106.

[0066] In the embodiments described above, air passages 101 and 102 are connected at the three-way pipe X2, and air passages 101 and 103 are connected at the three-way pipe X3. However, this is not necessary; it is sufficient that one end of air passages 102 and 103 is connected to air passage 101. For example, a four-way pipe can be used to connect air passages 101, 102, and 103 to each other, or the three-way pipe X3 can be positioned upstream of the pulse switch 107 on air passage 102, so that air passage 103 is connected to air passage 101 via air passage 102.

[0067] In the embodiments described above, a limiting member is provided on the piston 1112 inside the cylinder 111; however, this is not necessary. For example, a limiting member can be provided on the inner wall of the cylinder housing to limit the stroke of the piston 1112.

[0068] In the embodiments described above, rod 1111 and piston 1112 move horizontally; however, this is not necessary. For example, rod 1111 and piston 1112 can move vertically or linearly in other directions, in which case the orientation of cam switches 108 and 109 is adjusted accordingly.

[0069] In the embodiments described above, the pneumatic switch 300, pulse switch 107, cam switches 108 and 109, and reversing switch 510 are shown in the figures as two-position three-way valves; however, this is not necessary. These switches are operated by an operator, using only two ports for on / off switching, and therefore can be replaced by other forms of on / off components.

[0070] In the embodiments described above, air passage 105 connects port D2 to the rod chamber 113, and air passage 106 connects port D4 to the rodless chamber 114; however, this is not necessary. It is also conceivable that air passage 105 connects port D2 to the rodless chamber 114, and air passage 106 connects port D4 to the rod chamber 113. In this case, air passage 102 needs to be connected to the second force-bearing part 1102 of the telescopic valve 110, and air passage 104 needs to be connected to the first force-bearing part 1101 of the telescopic valve 110, to ensure that the rod 1111 can continuously reciprocate between the extended and retracted states when the pulse switch 107 is turned on.

[0071] In the embodiments described above, a flow channel cleaning device was described using a welding torch as an example. However, the flow channel cleaning device can be applied to any flow channel and is not limited to a welding torch.

[0072] Those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and modifications can be made to the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Therefore, all changes and modifications are included within the scope of protection of this disclosure as defined by the claims. This disclosure is defined by the appended claims, and equivalents of those claims are also included.

Claims

1. A flow channel cleaning device for cleaning flow channels, characterized in that, The flow channel cleaning equipment includes: Control mechanism (100), the control mechanism comprising: A cylinder (111) includes a housing defining a cavity, and is provided with a rod (1111) and a piston (1112) movable between an extended state and a retracted state. The rod is fixed to the piston, which is located in the cavity, dividing the cavity into a rod chamber (1113) and a rodless chamber (1114). The rod is provided with a joint. The telescopic valve (110) is a two-position five-way valve with a first state and a second state. It has ports D1, D2, D3, D4, and D5, and includes a first force-bearing part and a second force-bearing part. When the first force-bearing part is pushed by the airflow, the telescopic valve is in the first state. In the telescopic valve, ports D1 and D4 are connected, ports D2 and D3 are connected, and port D5 is closed. When the second force-bearing part is pushed by the airflow, the telescopic valve is in the second state. In the telescopic valve, ports D1 and D2 are connected, ports D4 and D5 are connected, and D3 is closed. A pulse switch (107) having an on state and an off state; A first cam switch (108) has an on state and an off state. The first cam switch includes a first protrusion on one side. When the first protrusion is pressed, the first cam switch is in the on state. When the first protrusion is not pressed, the first cam switch is in the off state. The second cam switch (109) has an on state and an off state. The second cam switch includes a second protrusion on one side. When the second protrusion is pressed, the second cam switch is in the on state. When the second protrusion is not pressed, the second cam switch is in the off state. The system comprises a first air passage (101), a second air passage (102), a third air passage (103), a fourth air passage (104), a fifth air passage (105), and a sixth air passage (106), wherein one end of the first air passage is connected to a source (10) for supplying water and air, and the other end of the first air passage is connected to port D1 of the telescopic valve; one end of the second air passage is connected to the first air passage, and the other end of the second air passage is connected to one of the first and second force-bearing parts of the telescopic valve; one end of the fourth air passage is connected to the third air passage, and the other end of the fourth air passage is connected to... The fifth air passage is connected to the other of the first and second force-bearing parts of the telescopic valve. One end of the fifth air passage is connected to port D2 of the telescopic valve, and the other end of the fifth air passage is connected to one of the rod chamber and the rodless chamber. One end of the sixth air passage is connected to port D4 of the telescopic valve, and the other end of the sixth air passage is connected to the other of the rod chamber and the rodless chamber. The pulse switch and the first cam switch are disposed in the second air passage to connect or disconnect the second air passage. The second cam switch is disposed in the third air passage to connect or disconnect the third air passage. The cleaning mechanism includes: The switching valve (205) is a two-position three-way valve with an air-flow state and a water-flow state. It has ports E1, E2, and E3. The switching valve includes a third force-bearing part. When the third force-bearing part is pushed by the airflow, the switching valve is in the air-flow state. In the switching valve, ports E1 and E2 are connected, and port E3 is closed. When the third force-bearing part is not pushed by the airflow, the switching valve is in the water-flow state. In the switching valve, ports E2 and E3 are connected, and port E1 is closed. The seventh gas path (201) has one end connected to the source and the other end connected to port E1 of the switching valve. Water passage (202), one end of which is connected to the source, and the other end of which is connected to port E3 of the switching valve; The first air-water flow path (203) has one end connected to port E2 of the switching valve and the other end connected to the flow channel. A second gas-water flow path (204) is provided, with one end of the second gas-water flow path connected to the source and the other end of the second gas-water flow path connected to the flow channel. One end of the third air passage is connected to the first air passage, and the other end of the third air passage is connected to the third force-receiving part of the switching valve. The piston stroke and the rod length are configured such that when the rod is in the retracted state, the joint of the rod presses against the first protrusion, and when the rod is in the retracted state, the joint of the rod presses against the second protrusion. When the pulse switch is turned on, the switching valve can continuously switch between the air supply state and the water supply state.

2. The flow channel cleaning equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow channel cleaning equipment also includes an air circuit switch, which is installed in the first air circuit and configured to connect or disconnect the first air circuit.

3. The flow channel cleaning equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow channel cleaning equipment also includes a pressure regulator, which is installed in the first air path to control the air pressure in the first air path.

4. The flow channel cleaning equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow channel cleaning equipment also includes a throttle valve, which is disposed in the fifth or sixth air passage and configured to control the airflow rate in the fifth or sixth air passage.

5. The flow channel cleaning equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The piston or the cylinder housing is provided with a limiting element to restrict the piston's stroke, such that the connection port between the sixth air passage and the cylinder and the connection port between the fifth air passage and the cylinder are located outside the piston's stroke.

6. A flow channel cleaning device for cleaning flow channels, characterized in that, The flow channel cleaning equipment includes: Control mechanism (100), the control mechanism comprising: A cylinder (111) includes a housing defining a cavity, and is provided with a rod (1111) and a piston (1112) movable between an extended state and a retracted state. The rod is fixed to the piston, which is located in the cavity, dividing the cavity into a rod chamber (1113) and a rodless chamber (1114). The rod is provided with a joint. The telescopic valve (110) is a two-position five-way valve with a first state and a second state. It has ports D1, D2, D3, D4, and D5, and includes a first force-bearing part and a second force-bearing part. When the first force-bearing part is pushed by the airflow, the telescopic valve is in the first state. In the telescopic valve, ports D1 and D4 are connected, ports D2 and D3 are connected, and port D5 is closed. When the second force-bearing part is pushed by the airflow, the telescopic valve is in the second state. In the telescopic valve, ports D1 and D2 are connected, ports D4 and D5 are connected, and D3 is closed. A pulse switch (107) having an on state and an off state; A first cam switch (108) has an on state and an off state. The first cam switch includes a first protrusion on one side. When the first protrusion is pressed, the first cam switch is in the on state. When the first protrusion is not pressed, the first cam switch is in the off state. The second cam switch (109) has an on state and an off state. The second cam switch includes a second protrusion on one side. When the second protrusion is pressed, the second cam switch is in the on state. When the second protrusion is not pressed, the second cam switch is in the off state. The system comprises a first air passage (101), a second air passage (102), a third air passage (103), a fourth air passage (104), a fifth air passage (105), and a sixth air passage (106), wherein one end of the first air passage is connected to a source (10) for supplying water and air, and the other end of the first air passage is connected to port D1 of the telescopic valve; one end of the second air passage is connected to the first air passage, and the other end of the second air passage is connected to one of the first and second force-bearing parts of the telescopic valve; one end of the fourth air passage is connected to the third air passage, and the other end of the fourth air passage is connected to... The fifth air passage is connected to the other of the first and second force-bearing parts of the telescopic valve. One end of the fifth air passage is connected to port D2 of the telescopic valve, and the other end of the fifth air passage is connected to one of the rod chamber and the rodless chamber. One end of the sixth air passage is connected to port D4 of the telescopic valve, and the other end of the sixth air passage is connected to the other of the rod chamber and the rodless chamber. The pulse switch and the first cam switch are disposed in the second air passage to connect or disconnect the second air passage. The second cam switch is disposed in the third air passage to connect or disconnect the third air passage. The cleaning mechanism includes: The switching valve (205) is a two-position three-way valve with an air-flow state and a water-flow state. It has ports E1, E2, and E3. The switching valve includes a third force-bearing part. When the third force-bearing part is pushed by the airflow, the switching valve is in the air-flow state. In the switching valve, ports E1 and E2 are connected, and port E3 is closed. When the third force-bearing part is not pushed by the airflow, the switching valve is in the water-flow state. In the switching valve, ports E2 and E3 are connected, and port E1 is closed. The seventh gas path (201) has one end connected to the source and the other end connected to port E1 of the switching valve. Water passage (202), one end of which is connected to the source, and the other end of which is connected to port E3 of the switching valve; First gas-water flow path (203); Second gas-water flow path (204); One end of the third air passage is connected to the first air passage, and the other end of the third air passage is connected to the third force-receiving part of the switching valve. The piston stroke and the rod length are configured such that when the rod is in the retracted state, the joint of the rod presses against the first protrusion, and when the rod is in the retracted state, the joint of the rod presses against the second protrusion. When the pulse switch is turned on, the switching valve can continuously switch between air supply and water supply states. The flow channel cleaning equipment further includes a reversing mechanism, which includes: The first directional valve (508) is a two-position three-way valve with a first state and a second state. It has ports F1, F2, and F3. The first directional valve includes a fourth force-receiving part. When the fourth force-receiving part is pushed by the airflow, the first directional valve is in the first state. In the first directional valve, ports F1 and F2 are connected and port F3 is closed. When the fourth force-receiving part is not pushed by the airflow, the first directional valve is in the second state. In the first directional valve, ports F2 and F3 are connected and port F1 is closed. The second directional valve (509) is a two-position three-way valve with a first state and a second state. It has ports G1, G2, and G3. The second directional valve includes a fifth force-bearing part. When the fifth force-bearing part is pushed by the airflow, the second directional valve is in the first state. In the first directional valve, ports G1 and G2 are connected and port G3 is closed. When the fifth force-bearing part is not pushed by the airflow, the second directional valve is in the second state. In the second directional valve, ports G2 and G3 are connected and port G1 is closed. The eighth air passage (501) has one end connected to the first air passage and the other end connected to the fifth force-bearing part. The ninth air passage (502) has one end connected to the eighth air passage and the other end connected to the fourth force-bearing part; A reversing switch (510) having an on state and an off state is provided in the eighth gas path and configured to connect or disconnect the eighth gas path. The third gas-water flow path (511) is connected to port F1 at one end and to the second gas-water flow path at the other end. One end of the second gas-water flow path is connected to the source and the other end of the second gas-water flow path is connected to port G3. The fourth gas-water flow path (512) is connected to port F3 at one end and to the first gas-water flow path at the other end. One end of the first gas-water flow path is connected to port E2 of the switching valve and to port G1 at the other end. The fifth gas-water flow path (504) has one end connected to port F2 and the other end connected to the flow channel. The sixth gas-water flow path (505) has one end connected to port G2 and the other end connected to the flow channel.

7. The flow channel cleaning equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The flow channel cleaning equipment also includes an air circuit switch, which is installed in the first air circuit and configured to connect or disconnect the first air circuit.

8. The flow channel cleaning equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The flow channel cleaning equipment also includes a pressure regulator, which is installed in the first air path to control the air pressure in the first air path.

9. The flow channel cleaning equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The flow channel cleaning equipment also includes a throttle valve, which is disposed in the fifth or sixth air passage and configured to control the airflow rate in the fifth or sixth air passage.

10. The flow channel cleaning equipment according to claim 6, characterized in that, The piston or the cylinder housing is provided with a limiting element to restrict the piston's stroke, such that the connection port between the sixth air passage and the cylinder and the connection port between the fifth air passage and the cylinder are located outside the piston's stroke.

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