Torch Thread Connector with Segmented Threads for Fast Consumable Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector components for torch systems require multiple rotations to engage or disengage consumables, slowing down the consumable changing process and reducing operational efficiency in material processing applications.
Innovation Solution
The design of connector components with radially disposed thread regions and smooth regions allows for secure engagement and disengagement with fewer than 360° of rotation, utilizing complementary thread and smooth region configurations to facilitate faster and easier attachment and detachment of torch parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard threading is used for connector components, then reliable mechanical engagement is achieved, but the number of rotations required to engage or disengage consumables increases to five complete rotations
Solution Approach 1:
The threading is segmented into discrete thread regions separated by smooth regions. Each thread region contains a portion of the threads, and multiple thread regions are distributed around the circumference. This segmentation allows the connector to engage or disengage in fewer rotations because the smooth regions provide clearance that enables the threaded portions to align and mesh more quickly, reducing the total rotation requirement from five complete rotations to a fraction thereof while maintaining reliable mechanical engagement.
2Strength
If standard threading is used for connector components, then secure connection is achieved, but the complexity of the connector design increases with continuous threading around the entire circumference
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs segmented threading where continuous threading around the entire circumference is divided into discrete thread regions. Each thread region contains a portion of the threads, and these regions are separated by smooth regions. This segmentation simplifies the overall connector design by eliminating the need for continuous threading, reducing manufacturing complexity, and allowing for easier assembly while still achieving secure connection through the distributed thread regions.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the connector have different properties: thread regions provide mechanical engagement and connection strength, while smooth regions provide clearance and facilitate alignment. This local differentiation of properties allows the connector to achieve secure connection where needed (in the thread regions) while simplifying the overall design and reducing complexity in the smooth regions, where continuous threading is not required.
3Productivity
If frequent consumable changes are performed, then material processing operations can be maintained, but operational efficiency decreases due to time spent on connector engagement and disengagement
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented threading design with discrete thread regions and intervening smooth regions enables faster engagement and disengagement of consumables. By reducing the rotation requirement from five complete rotations to a fraction thereof, the connector allows consumable changes to be performed more quickly, thereby reducing the time lost during frequent consumable replacements and increasing the proportion of time available for productive material processing operations.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A connector component is provided for assembly into a material processing torch- head. The connector component comprises a generally cylindrical body that includes a proximal end and a distal end defining a longitudinal axis. At least two thread regions are disposed at a radial location on a surface of the body near the proximal end. Each thread region includes at least one thread disposed on the surface of the body. In addition, at least two non-thread regions are oriented longitudinally at a radial location on the surface of the body.