Electronic torch apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gas-powered roofing torches pose a significant fire risk and are inefficient in terms of carbon consumption, while existing electric roofing torches are bulky and heavy, making them difficult to maneuver.
Innovation Solution
An electric torch apparatus with a separate control unit housing a fan unit and electronic components, connected to a flexible hose, which directs a high-speed, high-temperature air flow through an electrically powered heater, allowing for efficient heating without naked flames and reduced weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If gas-powered roofing torches are used, then high temperature heating is achieved, but fire risk and carbon consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the gas combustion system with an electric heating system. The electric torch uses an electrically powered heater element that converts electrical energy directly into thermal energy, eliminating the need for flammable gas and open flames while achieving the same high temperature heating effect required for roofing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the energy source parameter from chemical (gas combustion) to electrical. By using an electrically powered heater, the system maintains the high temperature parameter needed for melting bitumen and heating roofing materials while fundamentally changing how that heat is generated to eliminate fire risk associated with naked flames.
2Loss of energy
If electrically powered heater is used, then zero carbon emissions are achieved, but device weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the torch into two separate components: a lightweight handheld torch section containing only the heating element and nozzle, and a separate control unit housing that contains the power supply and electronic control components. This segmentation allows the operator to hold and maneuver the lightweight torch while the heavier control unit remains stationary or is easily movable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a flexible hose as an intermediary connection between the control unit and the handheld torch. This flexible hose transmits both electrical power and control signals, allowing the heavy components to be separated from the light components while maintaining functional integration. The flexible hose enables the operator to move the torch freely within the length of the hose without being constrained by the weight of the power supply.
3Ease of operation
If control components are integrated in the torch, then ease of operation is improved, but weight distribution becomes unbalanced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control components and places them in a separate control unit housing, distinct from the handheld torch section. This segmentation allows the torch to remain lightweight and balanced for comfortable handling, while the control unit houses all electronic control components, power supply, and safety features in a separate location.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible hose acts as an intermediary that connects the control unit to the handheld torch, transmitting electrical power and control signals. This intermediary allows the operator to control the torch from the lightweight handheld section while the heavy control components remain in the separate control unit, achieving both ease of operation and balanced weight distribution.
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 apparatus provides a lightweight, easy-to-manage solution that produces the necessary heat and air flow for roofing operations with zero carbon emissions, enhancing safety and usability.
Implementation Method 1
The housing contains a fan unit for generating the flow of air
Implementation Method 2
The electric torch comprises an electrically powered heater for heating the flow of air as the air passes through the electric torch
Implementation Method 3
The electrically powered heater may comprise heater elements operating collectively, in use, at a power in excess of 20 kW to achieve temperatures at a nozzle outlet in excess of 650° F. (340° C.)
Data Source
AI summary
An electric torch apparatus includes: an electric torch; a control unit for generating a flow of air to be supplied to the electric torch, the control unit having a housing with at least one air inlet and an air outlet. The housing contains a fan unit for generating the flow of air and electronic control components for controlling operation of the apparatus. A flexible hose connects the control unit to the electric torch. The electric torch includes an electrically powered heater powered by the control unit via a cable in the flexible hose. An air inlet of the control unit is arranged in a lower portion of the housing and the air outlet is arranged in an upper portion of the housing. The electrically powered heater may comprise intertwined and angularly displaced spirals of heater wires.