Segmented Torch Connector Reducing Engagement Rotations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector components for torch systems require multiple rotations to engage or disengage consumable parts, slowing down the consumable changing process and reducing operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a connector component with radially disposed thread and smooth regions, allowing for secure engagement and disengagement with fewer than 360° of rotation, featuring a male and female component configuration with aligned gaps and rims to prevent misalignment and facilitate slidable displacement and rotational locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If standard threading is used for connector components, then secure engagement is achieved, but the number of rotations required to engage or disengage consumable parts increases to five complete rotations
Solution Approach 1:
The thread region is segmented into multiple discrete thread segments (first thread segment, second thread segment, third thread segment) arranged radially around the longitudinal axis. This segmentation allows the connector to engage through multiple separate threading zones, achieving secure engagement while reducing the total rotation angle required compared to a continuous standard thread.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the connector body have different properties: thread regions provide engagement capability while smooth regions provide alignment and guidance. The thread regions are positioned at specific angular intervals (e.g., 120 degrees apart for three segments) to optimize the engagement path and reduce rotation requirements while maintaining connection strength.
2Reliability
If multiple rotations are required for engagement, then thorough threading is achieved, but the frequency of consumable changes decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The threading process is divided into discrete segments that can be engaged sequentially with smaller rotation increments. The radial arrangement of multiple thread segments allows the consumable to be securely fastened through a series of localized engagement points rather than requiring five complete rotations, thereby increasing changing frequency while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The threading mechanism transitions from a single continuous rotational path to a multi-dimensional engagement pattern where multiple thread segments are distributed radially around the longitudinal axis. This spatial distribution allows engagement to occur through combined radial and axial motion, reducing the total rotation angle needed while ensuring complete and reliable threading.
3Ease of manufacture
If standard connector design is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but handling time for torch operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates multiple discrete thread segments and smooth regions that can be manufactured using standard machining processes. The segmented design allows for straightforward fabrication while significantly reducing handling time, as the radial arrangement of thread segments enables quick engagement and disengagement operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector component is provided for assembly into a torch. The connector component comprises a body that includes a proximal end and a distal end disposed along a longitudinal axis. At least two thread regions are disposed radially about the longitudinal axis on a surface of the body near the proximal end. Each thread region includes at least two parallel threads disposed on the surface of the body. In addition, at least two smooth regions are each disposed radially about the longitudinal axis between a pair of thread regions on the surface of the body.