Interrupted Thread Coupling for Gas Torch Canister

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing gas fueled torches require multiple turns to secure the fuel canister to the torch head, making the connection time-consuming and inconvenient, and it is difficult to determine when the torch head is fully tightened.

Innovation Solution

A quick connect coupling system with interrupted screw threads on the canister and a matching locking element on the torch head allows for secure attachment in less than 360 degrees of rotation, ensuring proper orientation and easy connection/disconnection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional threaded connection is used to secure fuel canister to torch head, then reliable connection is achieved, but connection time increases and operation convenience deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidconnection time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The threaded connection is segmented into two functional zones: an interrupted thread portion for initial engagement and alignment, and a continuous thread portion for final securing. This segmentation allows the connection process to be divided into orientation (via interrupted threads) and tightening (via continuous threads), reducing total connection time while maintaining reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The interrupted screw threads perform a preliminary action by providing visual and tactile alignment cues before full engagement. The shape-defined orientation occurs before the tightening process begins, eliminating the need for multiple trial rotations to achieve proper alignment and reducing overall connection time

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Strength

If traditional threaded connection is used, then secure attachment is achieved, but number of rotation turns increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidoperation simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system introduces asymmetry through the shape-defined orientation feature. The interrupted threads create a unique geometric profile that must be aligned in a specific orientation, providing intuitive feedback to the user. This asymmetric design simplifies operation by eliminating guesswork about proper alignment while maintaining secure attachment through the subsequent continuous threading process

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

3Measurement precision

If interrupted screw threads with shape definition are used, then orientation accuracy is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveorientation precisionVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges two functions into a single integrated thread structure: alignment guidance and mechanical engagement. The interrupted threads simultaneously provide shape-defined orientation cues and serve as the engagement mechanism, eliminating the need for separate alignment features and reducing overall manufacturing complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS8727389B2Gas appliance

Publication Date: 2014.05.20 WORTHINGTON TORCH LLC

AI summary

A coupling for attaching a fuel canister to an appliance such as a torch comprises a first connector on the canister. The first connector comprises a first set of screw threads where the first set of screw threads are interrupted to define a shape. A second connector on the appliance comprises a locking element. The locking element has a matching shape that matches the shape such that the locking element closely receives the first connector when the first connector is in a first orientation relative to the second connector.