Torch Fume Extraction Control Using Position-Dependent Suction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fume extraction devices in welding and soldering processes lack position-dependent regulation, leading to inefficient fume capture and increased energy consumption, especially in automated systems where constant volume flow and energy requirements are not optimized for varying torch positions.
Innovation Solution
A device with a burner and a suction system that uses sensors to determine the position and changes in position of the torch, allowing for automatic adjustment of the suction volume flow based on the specific position, ensuring optimal fume capture and energy efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If constant volume flow is used in fume extraction devices, then fume capture is maintained, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic regulation of the suction device's volume flow based on the torch position detected by sensor means. The control device adjusts the suction power dynamically according to the determined torch position, replacing constant volume flow with position-dependent variable volume flow. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining adequate fume capture when needed while reducing energy consumption when full suction power is not required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameter (volume flow) of the suction device based on torch position parameters detected by sensors. By adjusting the volume flow parameter dynamically according to position, the system optimizes the balance between fume capture effectiveness and energy consumption, avoiding constant high energy usage while maintaining reliability when required.
2Use of energy by moving object
If position-dependent regulation is added to fume extraction devices, then energy efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical regulation with an automated sensor-based control system. Sensor means detect torch position automatically, and a control device processes this information to regulate the suction device's volume flow. This substitution of mechanical control with sensor-based automated control improves energy efficiency while managing complexity through electronic rather than mechanical means.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-regulation by using sensor means to automatically detect torch position and the control device to adjust suction power accordingly, without requiring manual intervention. This self-service capability improves energy efficiency while the automated nature manages complexity by eliminating manual control interfaces.
3Reliability
If suction power is increased, then fume extraction effectiveness improves, but protective gas coverage is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of suction power based on torch position, allowing the system to increase suction effectiveness when needed while maintaining protective gas coverage during critical welding phases. The control device regulates volume flow dynamically, optimizing the balance between fume extraction and protective atmosphere maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies different suction power levels at different torch positions, creating localized optimization. Where fume extraction is most needed, higher suction power is applied; where protective gas coverage is critical, lower suction power is maintained. This position-dependent local quality approach resolves the contradiction between extraction effectiveness and protective coverage.
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 solution enhances the quality of welded joints, effectively removes harmful fumes, and reduces energy consumption by optimizing suction power according to the specific welding task and position, ensuring robust protective gas coverage without negatively affecting the welding process.
Implementation Method 1
A suction device (2) is connected to the burner (1), having a suction hose (8) on the burner side, a suction hose on the suction device side (12), a suction pipe (18) and a suction nozzle (13)
Implementation Method 2
at least one sensor means (3) is provided for determining the position and/or changes in position of the torch (1)
Implementation Method 3
the volume flow of the suction device (2) acting on the torch (1) can be influenced as a function of the determined position and/or position change of the burner (1)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (10) for thermally joining workpieces, comprising a torch (1) and an extraction unit (2) for extracting fumes that are produced during welding, cutting or soldering processes. According to the invention, at least one sensor means (3) is provided for determining the position and/or position changes of the torch (1) and/or a reference point in the area relative to a reference position of the torch (1) and/or of the workpiece to be processed, in such a way that a volume flow of the extraction unit (2) acting on the torch (1) can be influenced according to the determined position and/or position change of the torch (1).