Welding Torch Switching Device With Two-Degree-of-Freedom Actuation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hand-held welding torches with integrated switching devices face operational challenges due to small button sizes and multiple rocker switches, leading to incorrect operation when using thick welder's gloves, and are prone to mechanical damage from impacts.

Innovation Solution

A hand-held welding torch with a switching device featuring a separate switching element that moves in at least two degrees of freedom, allowing independent operation of actuators, and a toggle switch on the underside for triggering the welding function, with a large actuating button and a housing design that protects against damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple rocker switches are integrated on the handle, then welding machine parameters can be controlled, but the operation becomes error-prone when using thick welder's gloves

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewelding machine parameter controlVSAvoidoperation accuracy with gloves

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The switching device is divided into separate functional components: a first switching element for wire feed speed control and a second switching element for welding function triggering. This segmentation allows each element to be optimally sized and positioned for glove operation, with the second element extending to the underside of the handle for thumb access.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The second switching element is positioned to extend from the top surface to the underside of the handle, utilizing the vertical dimension. This allows the welding function trigger to be accessible from the underside by the thumb, creating a three-dimensional arrangement that accommodates glove thickness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple rocker switches are integrated on the handle, then welding machine parameters can be controlled, but simultaneous triggering of multiple switches may occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewelding machine parameter controlVSAvoidswitching operation reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The housing structure acts as an intermediary that physically separates the first and second switching elements. The first switching element is positioned within the housing while the second extends through it, creating physical isolation that prevents simultaneous actuation while maintaining both functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Area of stationary object

If pushbuttons are made small to fit limited handle space, then device compactness is improved, but operation accuracy deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehandle space utilizationVSAvoidbutton operation accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Adaptability or versatility

If rocker switches are arranged side by side, then multiple functions can be controlled, but mechanical stability deteriorates under impact

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemultiple welding function controlVSAvoidswitching device stability under impact

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The housing combines multiple protective and structural functions: it houses the first switching element, provides structural support for the second switching element, and offers mechanical protection against impacts. This merging of functions strengthens the overall switching device structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP2301704B1Handheld welding torch

Publication Date: 2019.10.09 TBI IND

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AI summary

The torch (10) has switching device (15) comprising switching element and multiple actuators. The switching element is located so that the switching element is moveable relative to the actuators. The actuators are actuated by the switching element that is moveable in two degrees of freedom such as translation and rotational degrees of freedom. The switching element is mounted so that the switching element is moveable relative to housing. The housing is constructed to provide slotted guide for switching element.