Asymmetric Plasma Torch Nozzle for Flush Corner Cutting

The patent applies asymmetry by providing alignment surfaces on the torch that are asymmetric relative to the torch axis. These alignment surfaces include a first alignment surface and a second alignment surface that are not symmetrically positioned, enabling the torch to be positioned at specific angles (such as 45 degrees) relative to the workpiece surface. This asymmetric configuration allows the plasma arc to impinge orthogonally on the workpiece surface while the torch itself is angled, thereby achieving flush cuts near internal corners without requiring complex auxiliary positioning devices.

The patent implements self-service by incorporating alignment surfaces directly on the torch body that enable the torch to self-position at the correct angle relative to the workpiece. The alignment surfaces work with corresponding features on the workpiece or fixture to automatically establish the proper torch angle and orientation. This eliminates the need for operators to manually maintain precise angles over long cutting distances, as the torch structure itself provides the positioning reference, thereby achieving consistent bevel angles without requiring skilled operators or costly external positioning accessories.

The patent applies dimensionality change by introducing angular positioning in addition to the conventional linear approach. Instead of simply moving the torch closer to the corner along the cutting path, the alignment surfaces enable the torch to be positioned at a specific angle (such as 45 degrees) relative to the workpiece surface. This angular dimension allows the plasma arc to impinge orthogonally on the workpiece surface while the torch body is positioned at an angle that prevents the arc from damaging the base surface, thereby achieving flush cuts without harmful effects.

The patent merges the positioning and cutting functions into a single integrated torch design. The alignment surfaces are incorporated directly into the torch body, combining the positioning mechanism with the plasma arc generation system. This integration eliminates the need for separate positioning fixtures and multi-step processes (such as welding followed by grinding), allowing precise bevel cuts to be made in a single operation. The torch structure itself provides the angular reference needed for precise bevel cutting while maintaining high cutting speed, thereby improving productivity compared to traditional multi-step methods.