Torch Trigger Assembly for One-Handed Fuel Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gas-burning torches used in pipe soldering require users to set down the solder to adjust the flame size, which is inconvenient and decreases efficiency due to the difficulty in rotating the control knob with one hand.
Innovation Solution
A torch design featuring a trigger assembly that allows for one-handed control of hydrocarbon fuel flow to the burn tube, enabling the user to initiate and vary the flame size by pivoting the trigger, eliminating the need for a separate control device like a rotatable knob.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rotatable knob is used to control fuel flow, then the flame size can be adjusted, but the user must set down the solder and use the other hand to rotate the knob, decreasing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the trigger mechanism (for on/off control) with the fuel flow control function into a single component. The trigger, when pressed, simultaneously activates the fuel valve and allows fuel flow adjustment, merging two separate control functions into one integrated mechanism that can be operated with one hand while holding the solder.
2Ease of operation
If the trigger is designed to open the fuel valve when pressed, then one-handed control is enabled, but the trigger must be designed to pivot between off and full flow positions
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger serves multiple functions: it acts as both the on/off switch and the fuel flow control mechanism. By designing the trigger to pivot between off and full flow positions, a single component performs both valve activation and flow regulation, eliminating the need for separate controls and reducing overall device complexity despite the multi-position requirement.
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
Enables safe and efficient operation with one hand, enhancing user convenience and reducing the risk of accidents by allowing continuous use without setting down the solder, while also potentially extending the torch's service life through controlled fuel flow and reduced exposure of components to hydrocarbon fuel.
Implementation Method 1
The regulator spring urges the regulator valve actuating device against the regulator valve, to open the regulator valve
Implementation Method 2
Torches can be used in soldering applications. Pipe soldering involves joining together components such as two pipes or two fittings, or a pipe and a fitting, through application of solder to the joint. In order to flow solder into the joint, a torch is used to heat the joint and/or the solder directly
Data Source
AI summary
A torch includes a body that defines an interior cavity, and a fuel inlet connector secured to the body and disposed within the interior cavity. A regulator is disposed within the interior cavity and includes a regulator housing, a regulator valve and a regulator valve actuating device. An intake stem is secured to one of the fuel inlet connector and the regulator housing, and defines an intake flow passage. A burn tube is coupled with the body and defines a burn tube flow passage. A trigger is pivotally coupled with the body. The regulator valve opens as the trigger pivots between an off position and a full flow position, permitting a user to initiate and vary a flow of hydrocarbon fuel to the burn tube flow passage when the intake flow passage is in fluid communication with a source of hydrocarbon fuel, by varying the position of the trigger.