Segmented Thread Torch Connector for Rapid Consumable Engagement
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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 in material processing applications.
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 degrees 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 functional qualities: thread regions provide engagement security through threaded connections, while smooth regions provide alignment and guidance during the engagement process. This local differentiation of properties enables both secure engagement and reduced rotation requirements.
2Productivity
If frequent consumable changes are performed, then material processing operations can be maintained, but the time spent on changing consumables increases, reducing overall operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-segment thread design enables consumable changes to be completed in less than five complete rotations, significantly reducing the time penalty associated with frequent consumable changes and thereby increasing overall torch operation time and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The smooth regions are positioned to facilitate preliminary alignment of the connector components before threading engagement begins. This preliminary alignment action reduces the total engagement time and makes the frequent consumable changes required for maintaining productivity more efficient.
3Loss of time
If multiple thread regions are disposed radially about the longitudinal axis, then the number of rotations required for engagement is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
While the thread region is segmented into multiple discrete segments arranged radially, the overall connector structure remains relatively simple. The segmentation is achieved through straightforward geometric divisions of the cylindrical surface, avoiding excessive complexity while delivering the time-saving benefit of reduced rotation requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The radially arranged thread segments serve multiple functions: they provide secure engagement through threading, enable reduced rotation engagement, and work in conjunction with smooth regions for alignment. This multi-functionality justifies the moderate increase in structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector component (102) is provided for assembly into a material processing torch head. The connector component (102) comprises a generally cylindrical body (104) that includes a proximal end (106) and a distal end (108) defining a longitudinal axis. At least two thread regions (112) are disposed at a radial location on a surface of the body near the proximal end. Each thread region includes at least one thread (114) disposed on the surface of the body. In addition, at least two non-thread regions (116) are oriented longitudinally at a radial location on the surface of the body (104).