Oxy-Fuel Torch Circle Cutting Attachment with Fixed Pivot
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing attachments for circular cutting with oxy-fuel torches require operator movement, leading to inaccuracies and necessitate larger spaces for precise cutting of ferrous alloys like steel.
Innovation Solution
A specialized attachment for the oxy-fuel torch featuring a nut, brass bushing, and torch radius adjustment arm, allowing for precise circle cutting without operator movement by pivoting on a replaceable radius pivot point, enabling precise cutting in smaller spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If operator moves while cutting metal with oxy-fuel torch, then larger space is required for operation, but cutting precision deteriorates due to movement inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving the operator's hand holding the torch to trace the circle, the invention inverts the approach by providing a fixed pivot point and allowing the torch to rotate around it. The attachment assembly creates a stationary center point while the torch holder rotates, eliminating hand movement errors and enabling precise circular cutting without operator displacement.
2Measurement precision
If operator moves while cutting metal, then ease of operation is maintained, but cutting accuracy decreases and larger workspace is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The invention inverts the traditional circular cutting method by making the pivot point stationary rather than moving the torch operator. The fixed pivot point serves as the stable reference, allowing precise circular cutting to be achieved in a confined workspace area without requiring the operator to move around a large space.
3Manufacturing precision
If fixed pivot point is used for circular cutting, then cutting precision improves, but device complexity increases due to attachment components
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: a pivot point holder for positioning the fixed center, a torch holder for securing the oxy-fuel torch, and a radius adjustment mechanism for controlling the cutting radius. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, achieving precise circular cutting while maintaining reasonable device complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment assembly serves multiple functions: it provides a fixed pivot point for rotational movement, holds and positions the torch at the correct radius, and allows adjustment of the cutting radius. This multi-functionality consolidates several operations into a single device, improving precision without proportionally increasing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An attachment to fit to a nozzle portion of an oxy-fuel torch that enables an operator to precisely cut a circle in a metal without having to move during operation is disclosed. The attachment includes a nut threadably attached to the nozzle portion that in turn holds a brass bushing that is concentrically and coaxially arranged inside a bearing within a bearing retainer. Further, a torch radius adjustment arm retainer is slidably locked to the bearing retainer via a dovetail joint and is configured to slidably receive a long arm of an L-shaped radius adjustment, further secured by a first thumb screw. The operator cuts the circle having a radius equal to distance between the nozzle portion and a replaceable radius pivot point threadably attached at end of a short arm of the radius adjustment arm by pivoting on said pivot point and rotating the torch in the circle.