Inductively Coupled Plasma Generator Torch Adapter
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional inductively coupled plasma generators face challenges in efficiently replacing plasma torches with different outer diameters and require time-consuming and labor-intensive operations for plasma ignition, including attaching and detaching high-voltage terminals.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a torch adapter with a conductive rod and a conductive first member with elastic force for stable electrical contact, allowing for secure high-voltage application without needing to detach the ignition cable, and a pivotable torch holder that accommodates various plasma torch diameters with a common torch adapter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a common torch holder is used to hold plasma torches with different outer diameters, then the device can accommodate multiple torch types, but the electrical contact for plasma ignition becomes unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The torch holder is segmented into a lower holder and an upper holder that can be opened and closed. The lower holder has a fixed conductive member, while the upper holder has a movable conductive member that presses against the plasma torch when closed, ensuring reliable electrical contact regardless of torch diameter variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The upper holder is designed to be movable (openable and closable) rather than fixed. This dynamic structure allows the conductive member on the upper holder to apply pressure to the plasma torch, ensuring stable electrical contact for ignition while accommodating different torch diameters.
2Reliability
If high-voltage terminals are attached to plasma torches for ignition, then plasma ignition can be achieved, but the replacement process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection for high-voltage ignition is merged into the torch holder structure itself. The conductive members on the lower and upper holders directly contact the plasma torch, eliminating the need for separate terminal attachments. This allows operators to simply replace the torch without worrying about electrical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The torch holder automatically provides electrical contact for ignition through its built-in conductive members. When the plasma torch is inserted and the upper holder is closed, the conductive members automatically make contact, eliminating the need for manual terminal attachment or detachment operations.
3Device complexity
If a fixed torch holder structure is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate plasma torches with different outer diameters
Solution Approach 1:
The torch holder uses a dynamic upper holder that can be opened and closed, allowing it to accommodate plasma torches of different diameters. The movable structure enables the holder to adapt to various torch sizes while maintaining a relatively simple overall design.
Solution Approach 2:
The torch holder is designed with universal compatibility in mind. The lower holder provides a common base structure, while the upper holder's movable design allows it to work with plasma torches of different diameters, making the entire holder universal for multiple torch types.
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
This configuration simplifies the replacement process, ensures reliable electrical contact, and maintains proper alignment, reducing operator labor and ensuring consistent plasma flame formation across different plasma torch diameters.
Implementation Method 1
high-frequency power (for example, frequency 17.12 MHz, power 1.8 kW) is supplied to the induction coil 5, the plasma gas is ionized by electromagnetic induction, and a high-temperature plasma flame 100 is formed
Implementation Method 2
a conductive rod body 41, the other end of which protrudes from an outer circumferential surface of the adapter 4, is buried in the adapter 4
Data Source
AI summary
A conductive rod body is embedded in an insulative torch adapter into which a plasma torch is fitted so that a leading end protrudes from its outer circumferential surface. Further, a metal plate member electrically connected to a cable line to which a voltage for plasma ignition is applied is attached to a lower holder, and a conductive leaf spring member having a V-shaped cross section is attached to an upper holder. When the torch adapter is placed on the lower holder so that the protruding part of the rod body faces upward and the upper holder is closed to tighten a draw latch, the rod body and the metal plate member are electrically connected via the leaf spring member, and a high voltage for ignition can be applied to the plasma torch.