Welding gun assembly

Abstract

A welding gun assembly is provided, the welding gun assembly comprising: a body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; an igniter assembly; and a combustion tube comprising: a first portion oriented in a direction of a longitudinal axis of the body and having a first diameter; and a second portion having a bend configured to direct a flame of the welding gun in a direction relative to the longitudinal axis, the second portion having a second diameter greater than the first diameter. The angle of the bend may be 90 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis. The welding gun may further include: a trigger locking mechanism to limit movement of the trigger; and an operation lock mechanism configured to hold the trigger in the open position.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 508,411, entitled “Welding Torch Assembly,” filed June 15, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application generally relates to gas welding torches, and more specifically, to propane welding torches and propylene welding torches. Background Technology

[0004] Welding torches are commonly used in a variety of applications, such as metalworking, cooking, brazing, soldering, plumbing, heating, melting, lighting, or burning materials. Common fuels for welding torches include propylene, propane, MAPP (methylacetylene-propane), combinations thereof, or other liquid or gaseous fuels. The welding torch mixes the fuel with air to achieve combustion and produce a flame. Welding torches can be detachably attached to a fuel tank for ease of use and transport. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a welding torch is provided, comprising: a first end and a second end opposite to the first end; a hollow body adjacent to the second end; and a neck adjacent to the first end, wherein the neck includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being oriented along a longitudinal axis of the body, and the second portion being oriented at a 90-degree angle relative to the first portion, thereby forming a bend in the neck adjacent to the first end of the welding torch assembly, the bend being configured to guide the flame of the welding torch along the direction of the second portion of the neck.

[0006] The welding torch is small, compact, and conveniently shaped, allowing it to reach small or hard-to-reach locations by redirecting the flame at an angle relative to the torch body. This is achieved, at least in part, through a 90-degree bend in the torch head (neck). The burner tube is also bent 90 degrees within the neck and designed to provide a consistent and ideal flame suitable for a wide range of applications.

[0007] In one embodiment, the welding torch assembly is configured to generate a flame. The welding torch assembly includes: a body having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end; an igniter assembly disposed within the body to generate a flame; and a combustion tube located adjacent to the second end of the body and in fluid connection with the igniter assembly.

[0008] The combustion tube includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion extends from a second end of the body, is oriented along a longitudinal axis extending from the first end of the body to the second end of the body, and includes a first diameter. The second portion includes a first section oriented along the longitudinal axis and a second section oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis, thereby forming a bend in the combustion tube. The bend is configured to guide the flame of the welding torch assembly at this angle relative to the longitudinal axis. The second portion also includes a second diameter larger than the first diameter.

[0009] In another embodiment, the angle of the bent portion is 90 degrees.

[0010] In another embodiment, the second part of the combustion tube further includes an intermediate section, the first end of the second part is substantially cylindrical and has a second diameter, and the intermediate section of the second part includes a bend.

[0011] In a further embodiment, the combustion tube includes a truncated conical transition portion located between a first portion and a second portion of the combustion tube. The truncated conical transition portion includes a first end at a first diameter and a second end at a second diameter, wherein the truncated conical transition portion is configured to transition the combustion tube from the first diameter to the second diameter.

[0012] In another embodiment, the first portion of the combustion tube includes a first section and a second section, wherein the first section includes at least one vent and has a third diameter, the second section is within the first diameter, and the third diameter is larger than the first diameter.

[0013] In another embodiment, the first portion of the combustion tube is integrally formed with the truncated conical transition portion of the combustion tube, and the truncated conical transition portion is integrally formed with the second portion of the combustion tube.

[0014] In a further embodiment, the welding torch assembly also includes a neck having a first portion and a second portion oriented at an angle relative to the first portion, wherein a combustion tube is disposed within the neck.

[0015] In another embodiment, the bend in the second part of the combustion tube includes a first bending radius near the first section of the second part and a second bending radius near the second section of the second part, wherein the first bending radius is greater than the second bending radius.

[0016] In another embodiment, the bending radius decreases along the second portion of the combustion tube in the direction from the first section to the second section, making the bend sharper near the second section of the second portion.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the body also includes a trigger that is movable between an open position and a closed position, with the trigger biased in the closed position.

[0018] In another embodiment, the welding torch assembly further includes a safety locking mechanism configured to restrict movement of the trigger of the welding torch assembly from the closed position.

[0019] In another embodiment, the safety locking mechanism is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The safety locking mechanism is configured to restrict the movement of the trigger of the welding torch assembly in the closed position when it is in the locked position, and is also configured not to restrict the movement of the trigger when it is in the unlocked position.

[0020] In a further embodiment, the welding torch assembly also includes a running lock mechanism configured to hold the trigger of the welding torch assembly in the open position when the user releases the trigger.

[0021] In another embodiment, the running locking mechanism is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The running locking mechanism is configured to hold the trigger of the welding torch assembly in the open position when in the engaged position, and is also configured not to restrict the movement of the trigger when in the disengaged position.

[0022] In another embodiment, when the trigger moves to the open position, the locking mechanism changes from the engaged position to the disengaged position.

[0023] In a further embodiment, the welding torch assembly also includes a fuel tank to supply fuel to the igniter assembly.

[0024] In another embodiment, a welding torch includes: a body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; an igniter assembly disposed within the body to generate a flame; and a combustion tube located near the second end of the body and in fluid connection with the igniter assembly. The combustion tube includes a first portion, a second portion, and a truncated conical transition portion.

[0025] The first portion extends from the second end of the main body, is oriented along a longitudinal axis extending from the first end of the main body to the second end, and has a first diameter. The second portion includes a first section oriented along the longitudinal axis and a second section oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis, thereby forming a bend in the combustion tube. The bend is configured to guide the flame of the welding torch at this angle relative to the longitudinal axis. The second portion also includes a second diameter larger than the first diameter. A truncated conical transition portion is located between the first portion and the second portion of the combustion tube, and includes a first end at the first diameter and a second end at the second diameter. The truncated conical transition portion is configured to transition the diameter of the combustion tube from the first diameter to the second diameter.

[0026] In another embodiment, the first portion of the combustion tube includes a first section and a second section, wherein the first section includes at least one vent and has a third diameter, the second section is within the first diameter, and the third diameter is greater than the first diameter and smaller than the second diameter.

[0027] In a further embodiment, a welding torch includes a combustion tube in fluid communication with an igniter assembly. The combustion tube includes a bottom portion, a top portion, and a truncated conical portion. The bottom portion is oriented along a longitudinal axis extending from a first end to a second end of the torch body, has a first diameter, and includes a first segment and a second segment. The top portion includes the first segment oriented along the longitudinal axis and the second segment oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis, thereby forming a bend in the combustion tube. The bend is configured to guide the flame of the welding torch at this angle relative to the longitudinal axis. The top portion also includes a second diameter larger than the first diameter. A truncated conical transition portion is located between the top portion and the bottom portion of the combustion tube and includes a first end at the first diameter and a second end at the second diameter. The truncated conical transition portion is configured to transition the diameter of the combustion tube from the first diameter to the second diameter. The combustion tube is also configured such that the first segment of the top portion has a third diameter and the second segment of the first portion is at the first diameter, the third diameter being larger than the first diameter and smaller than the second diameter.

[0028] These and other objects of the invention will become apparent when viewed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, detailed description, and appended claims. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The present invention may take the form of some components and component arrangements, and its preferred embodiments will be described in detail in the specification and shown in the accompanying drawings, which form part of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an exemplary welding torch assembly.

[0031] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the welding torch assembly.

[0032] Figure 3 This is a close-up cross-sectional view of the welding torch assembly.

[0033] Figure 4 This is a close-up 3D view of the safety locking mechanism of the welding torch assembly.

[0034] Figure 5 This is a close-up cross-sectional view of the safety locking mechanism of the welding torch assembly.

[0035] Figure 6 This is a close-up 3D view of the operating locking mechanism of the welding torch assembly.

[0036] Figure 7 This is a 3D view of the combustion tube of the welding torch assembly.

[0037] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the combustion tube of the welding torch assembly.

[0038] Figure 9 This is an image of a combustion uniformity model of an exemplary welding torch assembly with a combustion tube of uniform diameter.

[0039] Figure 10 The image is an image of a combustion uniformity model of an exemplary welding torch assembly having an exemplary combustion tube having at least a first diameter and a second diameter as described herein.

[0040] Figure 11 This is a perspective view showing an exemplary lanyard holder for a welding torch assembly.

[0041] Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing an exemplary clamp holder for a welding torch assembly.

[0042] Figure 13 This is a view of an exemplary welding torch assembly in use.

[0043] Figure 14 yes Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary welding torch assembly is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0044] Embodiments of the present invention relate to methods and systems for assembling gas welding torches. In some applications or uses, space may be limited, or a welding torch may be required to reach a location at an angle that is otherwise difficult to reach. For example, a plumber may need to reach a location to weld copper pipes between joists, beams, trusses, or studs in a building. Depending on the spacing and layout, a typical welding torch may not be able to be placed in the desired location. Alternatively, if a typical welding torch is suitable, the angle at which the flame is emitted from the torch head may be undesirable. Due to the size or other dimensional limitations of the welding torch, a user may not be able to rotate a typical welding torch to direct the flame at the desired angle. The welding torch assembly (or simply welding torch) provided herein includes a bend in the neck of the welding torch assembly for redirecting the flame of the welding torch assembly to a desired angle. In some embodiments, this angle may be 90 degrees to the body of the welding torch assembly, such that the flame is directed forward of the welding torch assembly. Directing the flame at the described angle allows a user to reach locations that are otherwise inaccessible for metalworking, cooking, brazing, soldering, plumbing, heating, melting, lighting, or other combusting materials.

[0045] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same or corresponding parts in various views. However, including the same element in different views does not mean that a given embodiment must include such an element or that all embodiments of the invention include such an element. The examples and drawings are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the invention, which is to be measured by the scope and spirit of the claims.

[0046] Turn Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of a welding torch assembly 100 is shown. The welding torch assembly 100 includes: a body 102 having a first end 104 and a second end 106 opposite to the first end 104; an igniter assembly 150 disposed within the body 102 to generate a flame 152; and a combustion tube 170 adjacent to the second end 106 of the body 102, fluidly connected to the igniter assembly 150, and disposed within a neck 108. The combustion tube 170 includes a bend 192 to redirect the flame 152 from a first direction 112 to a second direction 114. The first direction 112 is generally straight or parallel to the longitudinal direction of the body 102. The second direction 114 forms an angle α with the first direction 112 such that the second direction 114 is oriented toward the front of the welding torch assembly 100. It should be understood that the angle α can be 90 degrees, or it can be any suitable angle less than or greater than 90 degrees as required by the user. In some embodiments, the neck 108 is adjustable between multiple angles to adjust the flame 152 to a desired angle or position. In other embodiments, angle α is between 0 degrees and 180 degrees. However, in other embodiments, angle α is between 60 degrees and 120 degrees. Or in other embodiments, angle α is between 80 degrees and 100 degrees. It should be understood that angle α can be any suitable angle, and various diameters and curvatures of the combustion tube 170 can be adjusted according to angle α to achieve improved performance characteristics.

[0047] Turn Figure 2 The figure shows a cross-section of the welding torch assembly 100. The body 102 includes a first end 104 and a second end 106 opposite to the first end 104. The body 102 is configured to receive a fuel canister 116, house an igniter assembly 150, facilitate the operation of the igniter assembly 150, and guide a flame 152 from the igniter assembly 150 through a combustion tube 170. The body 102 is also configured to be held and operated as a handheld assembly. As shown, the body 102 includes a grip portion 120 and is ergonomically designed.

[0048] To receive the fuel canister 116, the body 102 includes a fuel opening 118 near the first end 104, the size and shape of which are designed to receive the fuel canister 116 to supply fuel to the igniter assembly 150. Figure 2As shown, the fuel opening 118 is substantially circular and its size and shape are designed to receive a substantially cylindrical fuel canister 116. It should be understood that the fuel opening 118 can be any size or shape to facilitate engagement with the desired fuel canister 116.

[0049] To accommodate the igniter assembly 150, the body 102 is a hollow body 102 having at least one cavity 122 configured to accommodate and support the igniter assembly 150. The hollow body 102 also includes at least one external vent 124 for controlling the heat of the welding torch assembly 100 and allowing airflow. The igniter assembly 150 includes a fuel canister coupler 156, a fuel regulator system 158, an igniter 162, and a conduit portion 164. The fuel canister coupler 156 is positioned near a first end 104 of the body 102 for operatively engaging with a fuel canister 116 to supply fuel to the igniter assembly 150. For operative engagement with the fuel canister 116, the fuel canister coupler 156 may be threaded to receive the fuel canister 116 threadedly.

[0050] To control the flow of fuel from fuel tank 116, fuel regulator system 158 is operatively in fluid communication with fuel tank coupling 156. Fuel regulator system 158 includes a valve actuation device 160 at the end of fuel regulator system 158 opposite fuel tank 116. When engaged, valve actuation device 160 allows fuel to flow from fuel tank 116 through fuel regulator system 158 into conduit portion 164. It should be understood that fuel regulator system 158 is configured to prevent fuel, gas, and / or air from conduit portion 164 through fuel regulator system 158 toward fuel tank coupling 156 and fuel tank 116.

[0051] To ignite the fuel in conduit portion 164, an igniter 162 is coupled to conduit portion 164. When engaged, the igniter 162 generates a spark in conduit portion 164, which ignites the fuel to produce a flame 152. The flame 152 then travels along conduit portion 164 toward the second end 106 of body 102 and enters combustion tube 170. Figure 2 As shown, one end of the conduit portion 164 opposite the fuel regulator system 158 and the igniter 162 is fluidly coupled to the combustion tube 170 and may include a nozzle 166 to further control the flow of the flame 152 into the combustion tube 170.

[0052] like Figure 3As shown, to facilitate the operation of the igniter assembly 150, the body 102 also includes a trigger 126 for engaging the igniter assembly 150, a safety lock 130, and an operating lock 134 for engaging the trigger 126. The trigger 126 controls the amount of fuel released from the fuel tank 116 to supply fuel to the combustion tube 170. The trigger 126 is movable between at least two positions: a closed position and an open position. The trigger 126 is biased in the closed position. When the trigger 126 is pulled into the open position, it engages the valve actuation device 160 of the fuel regulator system 158, thereby allowing a portion of fuel to flow into the conduit portion 164. The trigger 126 is also configured to engage the igniter 162 when it is pulled into the open position, such that the igniter 162 can ignite that portion of fuel when the trigger 126 is pulled into the open position. When the trigger 126 is released, it is biased to the closed position, and the fuel regulator system 158 can disengage to cut off the fuel supply, thereby stopping the flame 152. It should be understood that trigger 126 may be configured to engage slidably such that when the user pulls trigger 126 to the open position, the entire trigger 126 translates along axis 127. Alternatively, trigger 126 may be configured to engage pivotally such that when the user pulls trigger 126 to the open position, a portion of trigger 126 translates along axis 127 about one end of trigger 126.

[0053] The main body 102 may include a safety lock 130, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 Further shown is a safety lock 130 for engaging trigger 126. The safety lock 130 is movable between at least two positions: safety open (locked) and safety closed (unlocked). The safety lock 130 is configured such that when the safety lock 130 is in the open (locked) position, it prevents trigger 126 from moving to the open position. For example, the safety lock 130 includes an elongated body 132 that restricts movement of trigger 126 when the safety lock 130 is in the open position. In this way, the welding torch assembly 100 is prevented from opening or generating flame 152 (e.g., dispensing and igniting fuel). This open (locked) position can be used for storage or when the welding torch assembly 100 is not in use. When the safety lock 130 is in the closed (unlocked) position, the elongated body 132 of the safety lock 130 is no longer in a position that hinders movement of trigger 126, and the welding torch assembly 100 and trigger 126 can be used normally. Figure 5 A close-up cross-section of the welding torch assembly 100 and the function of the safety lock 130 are shown. It should be understood that the safety lock 130 may be formed together with the body 102 of the welding torch assembly 100, or alternatively with the neck 108 of the welding torch assembly 100.

[0054] The main body 102 may also include a running lock 134, such as Figure 3 and Figure 6 Further shown is an engagement trigger 126. The run lock 134 is movable between at least two positions: a run lock open position and a run lock closed position. When the run lock 134 is in the closed position, the welding torch assembly 100 and the trigger 126 operate normally. When the run lock 134 is in the open position, the trigger 126 is locked in the open position. For example, when a user pulls the trigger 126 to the open position, the welding torch assembly 100 can produce a flame 152. When the trigger 126 is held in the open position, the user can press the run lock 134 to lock the trigger 126 in the open position by engaging the pin 136 of the run lock 134 with the latch 128 of the trigger 126. Once this is done, the user can remove their finger from the trigger 126 while the trigger 126 is held in the open position by the pin 136, causing the welding torch assembly 100 to produce a flame 152, without the user needing to maintain pressure on the trigger 126. To release the operating lock 134 or place it in the closed position, the user can pull the trigger 126, thereby disengaging the pin 136 of the operating lock 134 from the latch 128 of the trigger 126. When the trigger 126 is pulled, the operating lock 134 is released. The trigger 126 can then be released to cut off the fuel flow into the combustion tube 170 and extinguish the flame 152. In some embodiments, the operating lock 134 can also be released or placed in the closed position by manually moving it to the closed position. It should be understood that the operating lock 134 can be any locking system capable of engaging and disengaging the trigger 126, such as a latch system, a spring system, etc. It should also be understood that the operating lock 134 can be configured to slide engage such that when the user presses the operating lock 134 to the open position, the operating lock 134 translates along axis 135.

[0055] To control or direct the flame 152, the welding torch assembly 100 also includes a combustion tube 170. Figure 7 and Figure 8The diagram shows the combustion tube 170 and its cross-section. The combustion tube 170 includes a first portion 172, a truncated conical transition portion 178, and a second portion 186. It should be understood that all portions of the combustion tube 170 can be integrally formed, making the combustion tube 170 a single component. The combustion tube 170 may include a bend 192 for guiding the flame 152 of the welding torch assembly 100 at an angle α. The truncated conical transition portion 178 may be located between the first portion 172 and the second portion 186 to transition from a first diameter 180 to a second diameter 182. That is, the first portion 172 of the combustion tube 170 can guide the flame 152 from the igniter assembly 150 through the second portion 186 with the bend 192 to the output portion (or flame tip) 110. Those skilled in the art will understand that the combustion tube 170 cannot simply bend at an angle without considering hydrodynamic characteristics, combustion characteristics, and other similar constraints. In other words, simply placing a bend in the combustion tube 170 may produce undesirable flame characteristics. The combustion tube 170 of this application may include features designed to achieve desired combustion characteristics and hydrodynamic properties. In some examples, the first portion 172 may be referred to as the bottom portion, and the second portion 186 may be referred to as the top portion.

[0056] For example, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the combustion tube 170 includes at least two different widths or diameters along its length. Specifically, a first portion 172 of the combustion tube 170 includes a first ventilation section 174 and a second section 176, the first ventilation section 174 being coupled to a conduit portion 164 of the igniter assembly 150, and the second section 176 having a first diameter 180. A truncated conical transition portion 178 may be fixed at a first end to the second section 176 and at a second end to the first section 188 of the second portion 186 of the combustion tube 170, to transition the first portion 172 from the first diameter 180 to the second diameter 182, the second diameter 182 being larger than the first diameter 180. In other words, the truncated conical transition portion 178 may include a first end and a second end, the first end having a diameter corresponding to the first diameter 180 of the second section 176 of the first portion 172, and the second end having a diameter corresponding to the second diameter 182 of the second portion 186. In one embodiment, the first ventilation section 174 has a third diameter 184, which is greater than the first diameter 180 and less than the second diameter 182. The third diameter 184 may also be equal to the first diameter 180. It should be understood that, as used herein, diameter may refer to the inner diameter of the combustion tube 170 or a similar component.

[0057] The second portion 186 of the combustion tube 170 includes a first section 188, an intermediate section 190, a bend 192, and a second section 194. The first section 188 may have a second diameter 182 and is integrally formed with a truncated conical transition portion 178. The bend 192 may be inclined at an angle α, and the second section 194 may be configured to couple to the output portion (or flame tip) 110. As described above, the angle α of the bend 192 can be measured from a first direction 112 to a second direction 114 that is generally straight or parallel to the longitudinal direction of the body 102. In one embodiment, the second direction 114 is at approximately 90 degrees to the first direction 112, such that the second direction 114 is oriented toward the front of the welding torch assembly 100. In other words, at least a first section 188 of the first portion 172 of the combustion tube 170 and the second portion 186 of the combustion tube 170 are configured to guide the flame 152 along a first direction 112, a middle section 190 of the second portion 186 of the combustion tube 170 is configured to redirect the flame 152 from the first direction 112 to a second direction 114, and a second section 194 of the second portion 186 of the combustion tube 170 is configured to output the flame 152 along the second direction 114. Although angle α is shown as 90 degrees, it should be understood that angle α can be any suitable angle pointing towards the front of the welding torch 100, or it can point in any suitable direction (e.g., by rotating the combustion tube 170 relative to the body 102).

[0058] To output flame 152 through the second section 186 of the combustion tube 170, the welding torch assembly 100 also includes a flame tip 110. At least as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the flame tip 110 may be threadedly coupled to the neck 108 of the welding torch assembly 100 near the second section 194 of the second portion 186 of the combustion tube 170, within which the combustion tube 170 is housed. It should be understood that the size, shape, construction, and material of the flame tip 110 depend on the desired flame characteristics and the angle α of the bend 192 of the combustion tube 170.

[0059] It should also be understood that the bend 192 may include a static radius or may include an increasing or decreasing radius passing through the bend 192. For example, at least as Figure 7 and Figure 8Disclosed, the curvature of the bend 192 can be greater (e.g., sharper) near the second segment 194. The curvature of the bend 192 can be smaller (e.g., less sharp) near the first segment 188. In other words, the radius of the bend 192 can be minimum near the second segment 194 and maximum near the first segment 188, such that the radius of the bend decreases in the direction from the first segment 188 to the second segment 194. Compared to a bend with a constant radius or a combustion tube with a uniform diameter, the disclosed combustion tube 170 design can achieve more desirable combustion characteristics.

[0060] In another embodiment, the combustion tube 170 may include at least two diameters, such that the diameter of the combustion tube 170 can widen as it extends from the venturi port of the igniter assembly 150 over the bend 192 in the combustion tube 170 and toward the second segment 194. The change in diameter can increase linearly, exponentially, or any combination thereof. For example, as... Figure 10 As shown, the diameter of the combustion tube 170 can increase linearly from the first end near the igniter assembly 150 to the tip of the combustion tube 170 (e.g., at the second segment 194).

[0061] like Figures 9 to 10 As shown, by controlling the fuel-air mixture as needed, the overall characteristics of the combustion tube 170 can ensure a consistent, efficient, and desired flame. That is, the shape, curves, dimensions, diameter, bends, profile, variable cross-section, and position of the combustion tube 170 contribute to ensuring the desired flame characteristics. In other words, it may be difficult to achieve sharp bends in the combustion tube while simultaneously maintaining the desired shape and characteristics of the flame (e.g., uniformity, heat, noise, size, color, etc.). Figure 9 The flame characteristics of a combustion tube with a flame uniformity of 0.8 can be shown. This may not be ideal, and increasing the flame uniformity to obtain better flame characteristics could be beneficial. As an example, in Figure 9 The combustion tube analyzed in the flame uniformity example can be a combustion tube with a uniform diameter.

[0062] Due to the design of the disclosed combustion tube 170, the disclosed welding torch assembly 100 and the corresponding combustion tube (hydraulic forming tube) 170 can achieve more desirable flame characteristics, such as... Figure 10 The flame uniformity is at least 0.9, as shown. As an example, the diameter of the combustion tube 170 can widen as it extends from the venturi port of the igniter assembly 150 to above the bend 192 in the combustion tube 170. The variable diameter or variable cross-section of the combustion tube 170 can help slow the flow of fuel and air to a desired speed. This is achieved by at least... Figure 7 and Figure 8The expanded and variable combustion tube diameter disclosed herein is possible. The velocity of the fuel or air mixture affects the quality of the flame produced from the flame tip 110. Therefore, a variable diameter or variable cross-section of the combustion tube 170 can help improve flame characteristics (e.g., flame uniformity).

[0063] Turn Figure 11 and Figure 12 The main body 102 of the welding torch assembly 100 may also include an attachment portion 138. As an example, and as... Figure 11 As shown, the tether 140 can be secured to the attachment portion 138 for convenient storage or carrying of the welding torch assembly 100. Alternatively, the attachment portion 138 can be configured to include, as shown in the diagram... Figure 12 The clip 142 is shown. The clip 142 can also be used for convenient storage or carrying of the welding torch assembly 100. The clip 142 can be attached to the attachment portion 138 by sliding the clip 142 into it and securing the clip 142 with screws or other fastening devices.

[0064] Turn Figure 13 and Figure 14 This illustrates another exemplary embodiment of the welding torch 200. Apart from what is described herein, the welding torch 200 may be similar to the welding torch assembly 100 in all respects. Figure 13 A flame 252 produced by a welding torch 200 is shown, according to the description provided herein for a welding torch assembly 100 or a welding torch 200.

[0065] The systems, components (e.g., valves, cylinders, etc.) mentioned have been described with respect to the interactions between multiple components and / or elements. It should be understood that such devices and components may include those elements or sub-elements specified herein, some of the specified elements or sub-elements, and / or additional elements. Furthermore, one or more elements and / or sub-elements may be combined into a single component to provide aggregate functionality. Components may also interact with one or more other components not specifically described herein.

[0066] While the embodiments discussed herein are related to the apparatuses, systems, and methods discussed above, these embodiments are intended to be exemplary and are not intended to limit the applicability of these embodiments to those discussed only herein.

[0067] The examples above illustrate only some possible embodiments of various aspects of the invention, wherein equivalent variations and / or modifications will occur to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding this specification and the accompanying drawings. In particular, with respect to the various functions performed by the aforementioned components (components, devices, circuits, etc.), unless otherwise stated, the terminology used to describe these components (including references to “device”) is intended to correspond to any component (e.g., hardware, software, or a combination thereof) performing a particular function of the described component (e.g., functionally equivalent), even if structurally not equivalent to the disclosed structure performing that function in the illustrated embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, although specific features of the invention may be disclosed only for one of several embodiments, these features can be combined with one or more other features of other embodiments, which may be desirable and advantageous for any given or particular application. Additionally, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “owning,” “having,” “with,” or variations thereof are used to some extent in the detailed specification and / or claims, and these terms are intended to be included in a manner similar to the term “comprising.”

[0068] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also enables those skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any device or system and performing any of the included methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, but may include other examples that would occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to fall within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that are not indistinguishable from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially indistinguishable from the literal language of the claims.

[0069] In the specification and claims, several terms will be referenced with the following meanings. Unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural indicators. The approximate language used throughout the specification and claims can be used to modify quantitative expressions that allow for variation without altering their underlying function. Therefore, values ​​modified by terms such as “about” are not limited to specified precise values. In some cases, approximate language may correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the value. Furthermore, unless otherwise specifically stated, the use of terms such as “first,” “second,” etc., does not indicate order or importance, but rather serves to distinguish one element from another.

[0070] As used herein, the terms “possible” and “maybe” indicate: the likelihood of occurrence within a set of conditions; possessing a particular property, characteristic, or function; and / or qualifying one verb by expressing one or more capabilities, performances, or possibilities associated with the qualifying verb. Thus, the use of “possible” and “maybe” indicates that the modified term is clearly appropriate, capable, or suitable for the indicated performance, function, or purpose, while taking into account that in some cases the modified term may sometimes be inappropriate, incapable, or unsuitable. For example, in some cases an event or performance can be expected, while in others it cannot occur—a distinction reflected by the terms “possible” and “maybe.”

[0071] The best mode for carrying out the invention has been described for the purpose of illustrating the best mode known to the applicant at the time, and enabling those skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using the apparatus or system and performing the included methods. The examples are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the invention, which is to be measured by the scope and advantages of the claims. The invention has been described with reference to preferred and alternative embodiments. It is obvious that modifications and variations will be made by others upon reading and understanding this specification. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included, provided that they are within the scope of the appended claims or their equivalents. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that may occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to fall within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that are not indistinguishable from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially indistinguishable from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A welding torch assembly configured to generate a flame, the welding torch assembly comprising: A main body having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end; An igniter assembly disposed within the body to generate a flame; as well as A combustion tube, the combustion tube being located near the second end of the body and fluidly connected to the igniter assembly, the combustion tube comprising: A first portion, extending from the second end of the body, oriented along a longitudinal axis extending from the first end of the body to the second end of the body, the first portion having a first diameter; and The second part includes: a first section oriented along the longitudinal axis, and a second section oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis to form a bend in the combustion tube, the bend being configured to guide the flame of the welding torch assembly at the angle relative to the longitudinal axis, the second part having a second diameter greater than the first diameter.

2. The welding torch assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The angle is between 80 degrees and 100 degrees.

3. The welding torch assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a truncated conical transition portion, the truncated conical transition portion being located between the first portion and the second portion of the combustion tube, the truncated conical transition portion having a first end at the first diameter and a second end at the second diameter, wherein, The truncated conical transition section is configured to transition the combustion tube from the first diameter to the second diameter.

4. The welding torch assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The first portion of the combustion tube includes a first section and a second section, the first section including at least one vent and having a third diameter, and the second section being within the first diameter, the third diameter being larger than the first diameter.

5. The welding torch assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The first portion of the combustion tube is integrally formed with the truncated conical transition portion of the combustion tube, and the truncated conical transition portion is integrally formed with the second portion of the combustion tube.

6. The welding torch assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The welding torch assembly also includes a neck having a first portion and a second portion oriented at an angle relative to the first portion, the combustion tube being disposed within the neck.

7. The welding torch assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The curved portion in the second part of the combustion tube includes a first bending radius near the first section of the second part and a second bending radius near the second section of the second part, wherein the first bending radius is greater than the second bending radius.

8. The welding torch assembly according to claim 7, wherein, The bending radius decreases along the second portion of the combustion tube in the direction from the first section to the second section, making the bend sharper near the second section of the second portion.

9. The welding torch assembly of claim 1, further comprising a trigger movable between an open position and a closed position, the trigger being biased in the closed position.

10. The welding torch assembly of claim 9, further comprising a safety locking mechanism configured to restrict movement of the trigger of the welding torch assembly from the closed position.

11. The welding torch assembly according to claim 10, wherein, The safety locking mechanism is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The safety locking mechanism is configured to restrict the movement of the trigger of the welding torch assembly in the closed position when it is in the locked position, and the safety locking mechanism is also configured not to restrict the movement of the trigger when it is in the unlocked position.

12. The welding torch assembly of claim 9, further comprising a running lock mechanism configured to hold the trigger of the welding torch assembly in the open position when the user releases the trigger.

13. The welding torch assembly according to claim 12, wherein, The operating locking mechanism is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The operating locking mechanism is configured to hold the trigger of the welding torch assembly in the open position when in the engaged position, and the operating locking mechanism is also configured not to restrict the movement of the trigger when in the disengaged position.

14. The welding torch assembly according to claim 13, wherein, When the trigger moves to the open position, the operating locking mechanism changes from the engaged position to the disengaged position.

15. The welding torch assembly of claim 1, further comprising a fuel tank for supplying fuel to the igniter assembly.

16. A welding torch, comprising: A main body having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end; An igniter assembly disposed within the body to generate a flame; as well as A combustion tube, the combustion tube being located near the second end of the body and fluidly connected to the igniter assembly, the combustion tube comprising: A first portion extends from the second end of the body, the first portion is oriented along a longitudinal axis extending from the first end of the body to the second end of the body, and the first portion has a first diameter; The second part includes: a first section oriented along the longitudinal axis, and a second section oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis to form a bend in the combustion tube, the bend being configured to guide the flame of the welding torch at the angle relative to the longitudinal axis, the second part having a second diameter greater than the first diameter; and A truncated conical transition portion is located between the first portion and the second portion of the combustion tube, the truncated conical transition portion having a first end at the first diameter and a second end at the second diameter, wherein the truncated conical transition portion is configured to transition the diameter of the combustion tube from the first diameter to the second diameter.

17. The welding torch according to claim 16, wherein, The angle is between 80 degrees and 100 degrees.

18. The welding torch according to claim 16, wherein, The first portion of the combustion tube includes a first section and a second section, the first section including at least one vent and having a third diameter, and the second section being within the first diameter, the third diameter being greater than the first diameter and smaller than the second diameter.

19. A welding torch, comprising: Combustion tube, which is fluidly connected to the ignition assembly, comprises: The bottom portion is oriented along a longitudinal axis extending from a first end to a second end of the body of the welding torch, the bottom portion having a first diameter, and the bottom portion of the combustion tube comprising a first section and a second section; The top portion includes: a first section oriented along the longitudinal axis, and a second section oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis to form a bend in the combustion tube, the bend being configured to guide the flame of the welding torch at the angle relative to the longitudinal axis, the top portion having a second diameter greater than the first diameter; and A truncated conical transition portion is located between the top portion and the bottom portion of the combustion tube. The truncated conical transition portion has a first end at the first diameter and a second end at the second diameter, wherein the truncated conical transition portion is configured to transition the diameter of the combustion tube from the first diameter to the second diameter. The first section of the bottom portion has a third diameter, and the second section of the bottom portion is within the first diameter, wherein the third diameter is greater than the first diameter and less than the second diameter.

20. The welding torch according to claim 19, wherein, The angle is between 80 degrees and 100 degrees.

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