Steel Frame Torch Cutting With Reverse Feed for Complete Cuts

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for cutting steel frames using a cutting torch are inefficient due to the time-consuming process of moving the torch along the frame's surface, which can lead to cutting defects and reduced work efficiency, especially when cutting complex shapes or large frames.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that involve moving a cutting torch in a first feed direction along the steel frame's surface, then reversing direction in a second feed direction to complete cuts efficiently, maintaining the torch's posture and minimizing temperature loss, allowing for quicker completion of cuts in hard-to-reach areas.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If the cutting torch is moved along the surface of the steel frame while keeping the fire port close to the surface, then the cutting can be performed, but the operation time is significantly extended

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecutting qualityVSAvoidoperation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the cutting approach from moving the torch along the surface (1D path following) to positioning the torch at a distance and moving it perpendicular to the surface (1D linear motion). This dimensional change allows the flame to penetrate and cut through the material more efficiently, reducing operation time while maintaining cutting quality through proper oxygen supply and flame positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary approach where the fire port does not directly contact the surface but operates at an optimized distance. This intermediate positioning allows the flame and oxygen to effectively interact with the cutting surface without the constraints of surface following, enabling faster cutting while maintaining precision through controlled flame orientation and oxygen flow.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Loss of time

If the cutting torch is positioned at a distance from the steel frame and moved perpendicular to the surface, then the operation time is reduced, but cutting defects may occur in hard-to-reach areas

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation timeVSAvoidcutting completeness
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamic control of the cutting torch, allowing it to switch between two feed directions (first and second opposite directions) based on the cutting progress. This dynamic approach enables the torch to access hard-to-reach areas by reversing direction, ensuring complete cutting without sacrificing the time efficiency gained from the perpendicular motion approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies inversion by moving the cutting torch in opposite directions (first feed direction and second feed direction opposite to the first) to cut different portions of the steel frame. This bidirectional approach ensures that areas difficult to reach from one direction are properly cut by approaching from the opposite direction, maintaining cutting completeness while preserving time efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Manufacturing precision

If the cutting torch orientation is changed to cut hidden portions, then complete cutting can be achieved, but the temperature of the heated steel frame decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecutting completenessVSAvoidsteel frame temperature
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The patent maintains continuity of useful action by minimizing interruptions in the cutting process. The torch moves continuously in opposite directions without requiring repositioning or reorientation that would interrupt the heating process. This continuous motion preserves the temperature of the heated steel frame, ensuring cutting completeness while preventing temperature loss that would reduce cutting efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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 approach significantly reduces cutting time and improves work efficiency by ensuring complete cuts are made without reorienting the torch, maintaining high temperature for efficient cutting and reducing defects.

Implementation Method 1

supplying oxygen for oxidation of the steel frame to thereby cut a part of the cutting surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOxidation: Oxidation

Implementation Method 2

applying a flame toward the steel frame in the supply direction from the cutting torch

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeating: Heating

Data Source

PatentEP3778089B1Steel-frame cutting method and device
Publication Date: 2023.10.04 KOBELCO CONSTR MASCH CO LTD
  • EP3778089B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3778089B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3778089B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Provided are a method and an apparatus for efficiently and reliably cutting a steel frame. The cutting method includes locating a cutting torch (50) apart from the steel frame held by a holding device (10A) in a direction along a cutting surface, moving the cutting torch (50) from a cutting start position to a first cutting end position in a first feed direction perpendicular to a supply direction along the cutting surface, while applying a flame from a fire port (52) of the cutting torch (50) in the supply direction and supplying cutting oxygen to thereby cut a part of the cutting surface, stopping the cutting torch (50) at the first cutting end position and thereafter cutting an uncut part by moving the cutting torch (50) from the first cutting end position in a second feed direction opposite to the first feed direction.