Adjustable Torch Holder With Spherical Clamp Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional butane/propane torches are bulky, making it tedious for users to maintain precise control over the flame direction with one hand, as they require manual manipulation of the torch for various operations.
Innovation Solution
A tool with a base featuring a spherical socket and a rotatable receptacle that allows adjustable positioning of the torch along X, Y, and Z axes, combined with a spring-biased assembly for secure clamping and a suction cup for surface attachment, enabling stable and versatile flame direction control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the torch is held manually in one hand, then the operator can manipulate the piece being worked upon, but the torch becomes bulky and tedious to control precisely
Solution Approach 1:
The torch is divided into two separate components: a fuel tank and a flame directing nozzle. The fuel tank is held manually while the nozzle is mounted on an adjustable holder that can be positioned independently, allowing precise flame direction control without the bulk of the entire torch in one hand.
Solution Approach 2:
An adjustable holder serves as an intermediary device between the fuel tank and the flame directing nozzle. This holder provides a stable mounting point for the nozzle while allowing manual adjustment of its position and angle, enabling precise flame control without directly holding the bulky torch assembly.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the torch is held in one hand for manipulation, then the operator can work on the piece, but only one hand is free causing operational limitations
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the fuel tank from the flame directing nozzle and mounting the nozzle on an adjustable holder, the operator can hold the compact fuel tank in one hand while using the other hand to manipulate the workpiece. The flame direction is controlled through the adjustable holder rather than by hand manipulation of the entire torch.
3Volume of moving object
If the torch is made compact for hand holding, then it is easy to hold, but precise positioning and steady support become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable holder acts as an intermediary that provides a stable base for mounting the flame directing nozzle. This holder includes positioning mechanisms such as slots, clips, or adjustable arms that enable precise positioning of the nozzle in multiple directions while maintaining steady support during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder is designed with dynamic positioning capabilities, allowing the flame directing nozzle to be adjusted to various angles and positions. This may include movable arms, adjustable clips, or sliding mechanisms that provide both stability when positioned and flexibility for repositioning as needed.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The tool allows for stable and adjustable positioning of the torch, reducing user fatigue and enhancing operational precision by allowing the flame to be directed freely in any desired direction, while the suction cup provides additional stability.
Implementation Method 1
the base of the tool preferably includes an apparatus for releasably securing the base to a surface. In one form, the apparatus for securing the base to a surface includes a suction cup attached toward a lower end of the base.
Implementation Method 2
A manually operable, spring biased assembly is mounted in operable combination with first and second parts of the base and is operable in either a locked condition or an unlocked condition. The spring biased assembly is adapted to apply a first clamping force to the outer spherical surface of the receptacle when arranged in a locked condition
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for holding a torch having a fuel containing cylinder at one end and a flame directing nozzle at an opposite end. The tool has a base with first and second parts arranged in a cooperative stacked relationship relative to each other and defining a spherical socket therebetween. The second part of the base has an open top. A positioning receptacle is seated and rotatable within the spherical socket defined by the base. The receptacle has a spherical outer surface and a cylindrical blind cavity opening to the spherical outer surface of the receptacle so as to receive and releasably hold a lengthwise portion of the fuel containing cylinder therewithin. A manually operable, spring biased assembly is mounted in operable combination with first and second parts of the base and is operable in either a locked condition or an unlocked condition. In the locked condition, the spring biased assembly applies a first clamping force to the outer spherical surface of the receptacle to restrain the receptacle in a selected and adjusted position and against movement relative to the base and applies a reduced clamping force to the outer spherical surface of the receptacle when in an unlocked condition.