Pneumatic Torch Handle Jaw Using Shared Gas Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current air carbon-arc gouging torches require significant manual effort to open and close the jaw for electrode insertion and repositioning, leading to operator fatigue due to the need for substantial hand gripping force.
Innovation Solution
A pneumatically operated jaw system within the torch handle, utilizing a pneumatic cylinder and valve assembly to control the jaw's movement, reduces the hand gripping force required for operation by using compressed air to actuate the jaw's members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual lever operation is used to open and close the jaw, then the structure remains simple, but operator fatigue increases due to significant hand gripping force requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies pneumatic principles by introducing a pneumatic cylinder connected to the jaw mechanism. Compressed air is supplied through a regulator and valve assembly to actuate the jaw, replacing manual lever operation. This pneumatic system reduces the hand gripping force required while automating the jaw opening and closing actions for electrode insertion and repositioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the manual mechanical lever system with a pneumatic actuation system. The mechanical advantage previously obtained through lever mechanics is replaced by pneumatic pressure forces acting on the cylinder, thereby reducing the direct manual force requirement while maintaining jaw actuation functionality.
2Extent of automation
If pneumatic cylinder is added to automate jaw operation, then operator fatigue is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pneumatic system is designed to serve multiple functions: the same compressed air supply powers both the pneumatic cylinder for jaw actuation and the gouging process itself. The gas distribution system integrates these functions through a regulator and valve assembly that can direct air flow to different components, reducing the need for separate pneumatic systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the jaw actuation pneumatic system with the existing gas supply infrastructure of the gouging torch. The regulator and valve assembly serve dual purposes: controlling air flow to the pneumatic cylinder for jaw operation and managing gas flow for the gouging process, thereby integrating multiple functions into a unified system.
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
The pneumatically assisted jaw system significantly reduces operator fatigue by automating the jaw's operation, allowing for easier handling and reduced manual effort during extended use.
Implementation Method 1
A pneumatic cylinder may be disposed within the main housing and include a piston coupled to a shaft for actuating a first member of the jaw relative to a second member
Implementation Method 2
an electric arc can be struck and maintained between the electrode and the workpiece. As metal melts under the influence of the arc
Implementation Method 3
a stream of high-pressure air directed along the electrode to the arc causes the molten metal to be forcibly removed from the influence of the arc
Data Source
AI summary
Approaches herein provide a torch handle including a pneumatically controlled jaw operable to engage an electrode. In one approach, a system is provided for distributing gas within the torch handle, the system including a pneumatic cylinder within a main housing of the torch handle. The pneumatic cylinder is coupled to a shaft for actuating first and second members of the jaw. The system further includes a gas passageway through the main housing, the gas passageway extending to an exit orifice disposed within the second member. A flow controller, including first and second valves, is operable to direct a flow of a gas to either the pneumatic cylinder or the gas passageway. In one approach, the first member is actuated towards the second member when the gas is directed through the gas passageway, and actuated away from the second member when the gas is directed to the pneumatic cylinder.