Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
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TORCH HAVING A CONTINUOUS-FLAME MODE
[0002] The present invention relates to a torch and, more
particularly, to a torch with a continuous-flame mode.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Known torches include hand-held, flame producing
products that operate on fuel, incorporate an ignition
mechanism and are used by consumers to ignite a variety of
items. Some torches include a continuous-flame operating
mode.
[0004] For example, U.S. Patent No. 6,196,833, the
disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference,
discloses a fuel burner that has a trigger, a safety switch, a
protrusion rod extended through the safety switch and a
positioning pin that can be pressed to keep the burner in a
flame-spouting state. To initially establish a flame, the
safety switch and the protrusion rod are manipulated and the
trigger is pulled. Once a flame has been established, the
positioning pin can be pressed to engage the trigger and
thereby keep the burner in a flame-spouting state.
[0005] Improvements are desirable in the field of torches
having a continuous-flame operating mode.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] In one aspect, a hand-held torch includes a housing.
A fuel flow path is defined within the housing. A plunger is
movable within the housing to control fuel flow through the
fuel flow path. An engagement portion is coupled to the
plunger. A latching mechanism is movable to engage the
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engagement portion when the plunger is in a position allowing
fuel flow through the fuel flow path. A continuous-flame mode
actuator is coupled to the latching mechanism and exposed for
manipulation by a user to move the latching mechanism into
engagement with the engagement portion.
[0007] In a typical embodiment, the latching mechanism
engaging the engagement portion prevents the plunger from
moving into a position to block the fuel flow path.
[0008] According to another aspect, a hand-held torch
includes a housing. A fuel flow path is defined within the
housing. A plunger is movable within the housing to control
fuel flow through the fuel flow path. An engagement portion
is coupled to the plunger. A child-resistant actuator is
adapted for manipulation by a user to move the plunger. A
latching mechanism is movable to engage the engagement portion
when the plunger is in a position allowing fuel flow through
the fuel flow path. A continuous-flame mode actuator is
exposed for manipulation by a user to cause the latching
mechanism to engage the engagement portion.
[0009] In yet another aspect, a method of operating a
hand-held, continuous-flame mode torch includes moving a
plunger in the torch to an open position to establish fuel
flow through a fuel flow path in the torch. The flowing fuel
is ignited to create a flame at an outlet of the fuel flow
path. With the plunger in the open position, a latching
mechanism engages an engagement portion on the plunger to
maintain fuel flow through the fuel flow path.
[0010] In yet another aspect, a method of operating a
hand-held, continuous-flame mode torch includes moving a
plunger in the torch to an open position to establish fuel
flow through a fuel flow path in the torch. The flowing fuel
is ignited to create a flame at an outlet of the fuel flow
path. With the plunger in the open position, a latching
mechanism having a pair of rotatable claws is manipulated into
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engagement with a portion of an engagement portion on the
plunger to maintain the plunger in the open position whereby
fuel flow is maintained through the fuel flow path.
[0011] According to yet another aspect, a hand-held torch
includes a housing, a fuel flow path defined in the housing, a
flow control means for controlling fuel flow through the fuel
flow path, a latching means for engaging the flow control
means and a continuous-flame actuator means for moving the
latching means into engagement with the flow control means
whereby said flow control means provides continuous flow of
said fuel through said fuel flow path.
[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, there is
a hand-held torch comprising a housing; a fuel flow path
defined within the housing; a plunger movable within the
housing to control fuel flow through the fuel flow path; an
engagement portion coupled to the plunger; a latching
mechanism including at least one rotatable claw movable to
engage the engagement portion when the plunger is in a
position allowing fuel flow through the fuel flow path; and a
continuous-flame mode actuator coupled to the latching
mechanism and exposed for manipulation by a user to move said
at least one claw into engagement with the engagement portion.
[0013] In a further embodiment of the present invention
there is a hand-held torch comprising a housing; a fuel flow
path defined within the housing; a plunger movable within the
housing to control fuel flow through the fuel flow path; an
engagement portion coupled to the plunger; a child-resistant
flame actuator coupled to the housing and exposed for
manipulation by a user to move the plunger; a latching
mechanism movable to engage the engagement portion when the
plunger is in a position allowing fuel flow through the fuel
flow path, the latching mechanism comprising a pair of claws
rotatably coupled to a base element and; and a
continuous-flame mode actuator exposed for manipulation by a
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user to cause said pair of claws of said latching mechanism to
engage the engagement portion.
[0014] In a further embodiment of the present invention
there is a continuous-flame mode assembly for facilitating a
continuous-flame mode of a hand-held torch having a fluid flow
control plunger, comprising an engagement portion coupled to
the plunger; a latching mechanism movable to engage the
engagement portion, thereby activating the continuous-flame
mode; a continuous-flame mode actuator coupled to the latching
mechanism and exposed for manipulation by a user to move said
latching mechanism into engagement with the engagement
portion, thereby maintaining the continuous-flame mode.
[0015] In a further embodiment of the present invention
there is a continuous-flame mode assembly for facilitating a
continuous-flame mode of a hand-held torch having a fluid flow
control plunger, comprising an engagement portion coupled to
the plunger; a latching mechanism including at least one
rotatable claw movable to engage the engagement portion,
thereby activating the continuous-flame mode; a
continuous-flame mode actuator coupled to the latching
mechanism and exposed for manipulation by a user to move said
claw into engagement with the engagement portion, thereby
maintaining the continuous-flame mode.
[0016] In general, a torch is disclosed that is simple to
operate. The torch can optionally include provisions for
child-resistant operation.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] FIG. 1 is a side view of a hand-held torch that is
capable of being operated in a continuous-flame mode.
[0018] FIGS. 2A and 2B are cutaway partial side-views of
the torch shown in FIG. 1.
[0019] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the latching
mechanism of FIGS. 2A and 2B.
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[0020] FIG. 4 is a cutaway partial side-view of an
alternative embodiment of a hand-held torch that is capable of
being operated in a continuous-flame mode.
[0021] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the valve body of
FIGS. 2A and 2B.
[0022] FIG. 5B is a cutaway side view of the valve body of
FIGS. 2A and 2B.
[0023] FIGS. 6A and 6B are partial cutaway side-views of
an alternative embodiment of a hand-held torch that is capable
of being operated in a continuous-flame mode.
[0024] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the
continuous-flame mode assembly of FIGS. 6A and 6B.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] In describing the preferred embodiments of the
present invention, specific terminology will be resorted to
for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not
intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and
is understood that each specific term includes all technical
equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish
the same purpose.
[0026] Referring now to the drawings, wherein like
reference numerals represent like elements, FIG. 1 is a
hand-held torch 100 that is capable of being operated in a
continuous-flame mode in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention.
[0027] The illustrated torch 100 includes a base 102, a
handle 104 coupled to the base 102 and a torch assembly 106
contained within a housing 110 which is coupled to the handle
104. In one embodiment, the handle 104 includes a fuel
storage compartment operatively contained therein to supply
fuel to the torch assembly 106. In other embodiments,
however, the torch 100 is adapted to be coupled to a
remotely-located or directly attached fuel supply. For
example, one embodiment may include a fuel transfer adaptor
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configured to releasably attach to a fuel container, as
disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,959,742,
Such a fuel
transfer adaptor in accordance with the present invention is
shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B. One convenient fuel for the
hand-held torch 100 is butane. In general, the torch assembly
106 is operable to deliver fuel from the fuel storage
compartment, to ignite the fuel and to produce a flame at its
nozzle 108.
[0028] A trigger 112 and a continuous-flame mode button
114 are coupled to the housing 110 and are operatively exposed
for manipulation by a user. In one embodiment, successful
manipulation of the trigger 112 results in the production of a
flame at the nozzle 108. In those embodiments, manipulating
the trigger 112 initiates fuel flow and ignites the flowing
fuel. In some embodiments, the trigger 112 is spring-loaded
in a manner that makes its operation child-resistant. More
particularly, in those embodiments, the force required to
overcome the spring-loading resists successful operation of
the trigger 112 by young children.
[0029] In the preferred embodiment of the torch 100, the
torch 100 can be operated in a continuous-flame mode. In this
regard, if the button 114 is manipulated (i.e., pressed in the
direction indicated by arrow "a" and then released while a
flame is being produced), the torch 100 enters the
continuous-flame mode. Once continuous-flame mode has been
established, only releasing the trigger 112 will not cause the
flame to extinguish. If the torch 100 is operating in the
continuous-flame mode, that mode can be deactivated by
manipulating (i.e., pressing and releasing) the button 114
again. In some embodiments, deactivating the continuous-flame
mode requires pressing the button 114 deeper than is required
to activate the continuous-flame mode.
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[0030] Continuous-flame mode is an operational mode, in
which the torch 100 can maintain a flame at the nozzle 108 as
long as fuel is available, even if the trigger 112 is
released. Activating the continuous-flame mode might be
desirable in applications, such as soldering, where it is
helpful to have a flame available for an extended period of
time. It may be desirable to activate the continuous-flame
mode in a variety of other applications, as well.
[0031] The illustrated torch 100 also includes an
(optional) flame adjuster 116 coupled to the housing 110 and
operatively exposed for manipulation by a user. Manipulation
of the flame adjuster 116 affects the intensity of the flame
that is produced at the nozzle 108. In the illustrated
embodiment, the flame adjuster 116 includes a lever 117 that
is adapted for movement back and forth within a slot in the
housing 110. Moving the lever 117 in one direction increases
the flame's intensity, while moving the lever 117 in the
opposite direction decreases the flame's intensity. The flame
adjuster 116 controls the rate at which fuel can flow to the
nozzle 108 when the torch 100 is producing a flame.
[0032] FIGS. 2A and 2B are cutaway partial side-views of
the torch 100 shown in FIG. 1. In FIG. 2A, the torch assembly
106 is off (i.e., it is not producing a flame). In FIG. 2B,
the torch assembly 106 is on (i.e., it is producing a flame)
and is moving into a continuous-flame mode. Functionally, the
illustrated torch 100 includes a flame initiating assembly 202
and a continuous-flame mode assembly 204.
[0033] The flame initiating assembly 202 includes a fuel
storage compartment 206, a fuel flow path 208 that extends
from the fuel storage compartment 206 to an outlet 210 of the
torch's nozzle 108, a valve 212 that controls fuel flow
through the fuel flow path 208 and the trigger 112 that is
adapted for manipulation by a user to establish fuel flow
through the fuel flow path 208 and to ignite a flame at the
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outlet 210 of the nozzle 108. The valve 212 includes a valve
body 214 and a plunger 216 that can move through the valve
body 214 to control fuel flow through the valve 212 and,
therefore, through the fuel flow path 208. The valve body 214
is positioned within a valve nest 215. The valve nest 215 is
positioned within the housing 110. The trigger 112 is adapted
to move the plunger 216. The flame initiating assembly 202
also includes an optional flame adjuster lever 117 operatively
coupled to the valve body 214 in such a manner that movement
of the lever 117 causes the valve body 214 to move through the
valve nest 215 in the housing 110 and, thereby, adjusts the
rate at which fuel can flow through the fuel flow path 208.
The flame initiating assembly 202 also includes an igniter 218
operatively coupled to the trigger 112 and adapted to produce
an ignition spark in response to a user squeezing the trigger
112. In a preferred embodiment, the igniter 218 is a
piezoelectric element, in which the motion of the trigger 112
causes a spring-loaded hammer to strike a piezoelectric
crystal, thereby producing a voltage and resulting in a spark
to ignite the fuel.
[0034] Such an igniter 218 is also illustrated in FIGS. 6A
and 6B to be described hereinafter. In the illustrated
embodiment, an extension 630, carries the voltage produced by
the igniter 218 to the nozzle 108, where the resultant spark
ignites the fuel exiting the nozzle 108.
[0035] Referring again to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the
continuous-flame mode assembly 204 includes a spring-loaded
button 114 that is exposed through the housing 110 for
manipulation by a user to activate a continuous-flame mode, a
latching mechanism 220 coupled to the button 114, a
continuous-flame mode engagement portion 222 coupled to the
plunger 216 and adapted for engagement with the latching
mechanism 220 and a fixed element 224 secured to the housing
110 and positioned near the latching mechanism 220. The
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latching mechanism 220 is movable to engage the
continuous-flame mode engagement portion 222 on the plunger
216 when the plunger 216 is in an open position (i.e., when
the plunger 216 is positioned as shown in FIG. 2B). Once
engaged, the latching mechanism 220 prevents the plunger 216
from moving to a closed position (i.e., a position wherein the
plunger 216 entirely blocks the fuel flow path 208).
[0036] To disengage the latching mechanism 220 from the
continuous-flame mode engagement portion 222 on the plunger
216 and, thereby deactivate the continuous-flame mode, the
latching mechanism 220 is adapted for movement in a manner
that causes it to spread apart when in contact with the fixed
element 224 and disengage the continuous-flame mode engagement
portion 222 on the plunger 216. Once the latching mechanism
220 disengages the continuous-flame mode engagement portion
222, the plunger 216 is free to move to the closed position
(shown in FIG. 2A) and does so under force from plunger spring
226.
[0037] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the latching
mechanism 220 of FIGS. 2A and 2B.
[0038] The illustrated latching mechanism 220 includes a
substantially flat base 302. A pair of claws 304 extends from
opposite sides of the base 302 in substantially the same
direction, but angled slightly away from one another. Each
claw 304 extends approximately an identical distance from the
base 302. In the illustrated embodiment, the claws 304 are
flexible. The distal ends 306 of the flexible claws 304 are
bent inwardly so that the tips of the bent distal ends 306
face approximately towards each other. The base 302 includes
a hole 308 for receiving a fastening element.
[0039] The claws 304 generally have some degree of
flexibility, but also some degree of resilience, as well. In
a typical implementation, the claws 304 should be flexible
enough to flex outwardly to engage and to disengage a
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continuous-flame mode engagement portion (e.g.,
continuous-flame mode engagement portion 222) of a plunger.
However, the claws 304 should be resilient enough to return to
their original form after flexing in manners consistent with
engaging and disengaging the engagement portion.
[0040] Turning again to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the pair of claws
304 extends from the base 302 of the latching mechanism 220
substantially toward the plunger 216. Each claw 304 is angled
slightly outward relative to the axis of the plunger 216. The
button 114 has a stem 221 that passes through an opening 223
in the housing 110. The base 302 of the latching mechanism 220
is coupled to the stem 221 with a fastening element 253 that
passes through a hole (i.e., hole 308 in FIG. 3) in the base
302. As such, the latching mechanism 220 and the button 114
are adapted to move together axially. Each claw 304 has a
distal end 306 that is bent inwardly to facilitate gripping
the continuous-flame mode engagement portion 222 on the
plunger 216. A spring 249 is positioned between the housing
110 and the button 114 and is arranged to provide
spring-loading for the button 114 in an outward direction.
[0041] As illustrated, the continuous-flame mode
engagement portion 222 includes a lip 225 with an angled
surface 227 that is exposed for contact with the distal ends
306 of the latching mechanism 220. The angled surface 227 is
formed so that the end of the angled surface 227 closest to
the button 114 has a smaller diameter than the end of the
angled surface 227 farthest from the button 114. A step is
formed by the forward end of the lip 225 and the trigger
engagement portion 258, which has a smaller diameter than the
forward end of the lip 225. That step enables the
continuous-flame mode engagement portion 222 to be gripped (as
shown in FIG. 2B) by the distal ends 306 of the claws 304.
[0042] The fixed element 224 is coupled to the housing 110
and, therefore, is stationary with respect to the housing 110.
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The fixed element 224 extends between the claws 304 in such a
manner that the fixed element 224 will contact the claws 304
when the claws 304 are moved forward from a position engaged
to the continuous-flame mode engagement portion 222. The
illustrated fixed element 224 has a pair of beveled surfaces
293, each of which is adapted to contact one of the claws 304.
[0043] The illustrated flame initiating assembly 202
includes a fuel storage compartment 206 adapted to store
pressurized fuel therein. The fuel storage compartment 206
has a housing 228, a portion of which forms the torch's handle
104. The housing 228 is securely coupled to the torch
assembly 106.
[0044] The fuel flow path 208 extends from the fuel
storage compartment 206 to an outlet 210 of the torch's nozzle
108. In the illustrated embodiment, the fuel flow path 208
includes a fuel communication line 230 that provides for fluid
communication between the pressurized fuel storage compartment
206 and the torch assembly 106. The illustrated fuel
communication line 230 extends through the housing 228 of the
fuel storage compartment 206 and mates with a fuel inlet port
232 on the torch assembly 106.
[0045] Within the torch assembly 106, a coupling tube 234
extends from the fuel inlet port 232 to the valve 212 and
provides for fluid communication therebetween. The valve 212
is adapted to control the flow of fuel through the fuel flow
path 208.
[0046] The illustrated valve 212 includes a valve body 214
and a plunger 216 that can move through the valve body 214 to
control fuel flow through the valve 212 and, therefore,
through the fuel flow path 208. The valve body 214 is
positioned inside a valve nest 215 that is positioned within
the housing 110. The valve body 214 forms portions of the
fuel flow path 208 including a fuel inlet passage 236, a first
cylindrical cavity 240, a second cylindrical cavity 238 and a
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fuel outlet passage 242. The illustrated valve body 214 also
includes a rear cylindrical portion 245 that is securely
fastened to a spring retention element 246. The outer surface
of the rear cylindrical portion 245 has screw threads that
engage a corresponding set of screw threads formed on an inner
surface of the valve nest 215. In some implementations, the
spring retention element 246 is press fit into the valve body
214 so that the spring retention element 246 and the valve
body 214 can move axially together through the housing 110.
Together, the rear cylindrical portion 245 and the spring
retention element 246 contain a plunger spring 226.
[0047] The illustrated coupling tube 234 is in fluid
communication with the valve's 212 fuel inlet passage 236,
which extends radially inward through the valve body 214. A
pair of o-rings 251 is provided between the valve body 214 and
the valve nest 215 at opposite axial sides of the valve's 212
fuel inlet passage 236. Those o-rings 251 help prevent
leakage from the fuel inlet passage 236 around the valve body
214. The o-rings 251 are coupled to grooves formed in an
outer surface of the valve body 214 and are able to move
axially through the valve nest 215 with the valve body 214.
[0048] The first cylindrical cavity 240 extends axially
through the valve body 214 from the fuel inlet passage 236 to
the second cylindrical cavity 238. The plunger 216 is adapted
to move axially through the first cylindrical cavity 240.
Fuel flow through the valve body 214 depends on the plunger's
216 position within the first cylindrical cavity 240. In one
position (e.g., the position shown in FIG. 2A), the plunger
216 blocks fuel flow from the first cylindrical cavity 240 to
the second cylindrical cavity 238. In another position (e.g.,
the position shown in FIG. 2B), the plunger 216 allows fuel
flow from the first cylindrical cavity 240 to the second
cylindrical cavity 238.
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[0049] The second cylindrical cavity 238 extends in an
axial direction from the first cylindrical cavity 240 and is
in fluid communication therewith. The second cylindrical
cavity 238 has a narrower inner diameter than the first
cylindrical cavity 240. The second cylindrical cavity 238 is
too narrow to accommodate the plunger 216.
[0050] The fuel outlet passage 242 extends radially
outward from the second cylindrical cavity 238 to a plenum
244, which also forms part of the fuel flow path 208. The
plenum 244 is a space between the valve body 214 and the valve
nest 215 and is near a forward end of the valve body 214.
[0051] The forward tip 247 of the valve body 214 forms a
slightly tapered cylindrical extension 248 that extends at
least partially into a corresponding slightly tapered or
cylindrical opening 250 in the valve nest 215 and is movable
therein in an axial direction. The space provided between the
cylindrical extension 248 and the slightly tapered cylindrical
or opening 250 forms part of the fuel flow path 208. The rate
of fuel flow through that space depends on the amount of
clearance that exists between the slightly tapered cylindrical
extension 248 and the slightly tapered or cylindrical opening
250. In general, a smaller clearance results in a lower fuel
flow rate while a larger clearance results in a greater fuel
flow rate. That clearance can be adjusted by moving the valve
body 214 in an axial direction relative to the valve nest 215.
In the illustrated embodiment, if the valve body 214 is moved
forward relative to the valve nest 215, the clearance becomes
smaller and the fuel flow rate is reduced. Alternately, if
the valve body 214 is moved rearward relative to the valve
nest 215, the clearance becomes larger and the fuel flow rate
increases.
[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, the amount of
clearance between the slightly tapered cylindrical extension
248 and the slightly tapered cylindrical opening 250 can be
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adjusted by manipulating the flame adjuster lever 117. The
flame adjuster lever 117 is rigidly coupled to an annular
flame adjuster interface 252 in such a manner that movement of
the lever 117 causes the flame adjuster interface 252 to
rotate about axis "b". The flame adjuster interface 252 has
an axial, serrated opening that receives the spring retention
element 246. The serrations on the inner surface of the flame
adjuster interface 252 engage corresponding serrations on an
outer surface of the spring retention element 246.
Accordingly, rotation of the flame adjuster interface 252
causes similar rotation of the spring retention element 246.
Since the spring retention element 246 is rigidly coupled to
the valve body 214 (e.g., by a press fit), the valve body 214
also rotates with the spring retention element. The rear
cylindrical portion 245 of the valve body 214 is screwed into
the valve nest 215. Therefore, the valve body moves axially
relative to the valve nest 215 as it rotates. Since the
spring retention element 246 is rigidly coupled to the valve
body 214, the spring retention element also moves axially
relative to the valve nest 215. As discussed herein, moving
the valve body 214 axially through the valve nest 215 changes
the intensity of the flame being produced at the outlet 210 of
nozzle 108.
[0053] The illustrated fuel flow path 208 continues from
the space between the slightly tapered cylindrical extension
248 at the forward tip 247 of the valve body 214 and the
slightly tapered cylindrical opening 250 in the valve nest 215
to a compartment 254 that feeds into the nozzle 108. The fuel
flow path 208 continues through the nozzle 108 to the outlet
210 of the nozzle 108.
[0054] The flame initiating assembly 202 also includes the
trigger 112 that is operable to create a flame at the outlet
210 of nozzle 108. The flame is created by establishing fuel
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flow through the fuel flow path 208 and by igniting the
flowing fuel.
[0055] Actuation of the trigger 112 initiates fuel flow by
moving the plunger 216 to a position (FIG. 2B) that allows
fuel to flow through the fuel flow path 208. The trigger 112
is able to accomplish that because it is coupled to the
plunger 216 by virtue of coupling element 256. The
illustrated coupling element 256 extends from the trigger 112
to the plunger 216 and has an opening, through which the
plunger 216 passes and through which the plunger 216 can
freely move in an axial direction. In some embodiments, the
opening is a cylindrical passage through the coupling element
256. In other implementations, the opening is a U-shaped
cutout in the coupling element 256. The opening can be any
other convenient shape or configuration.
[0056] The coupling element 256 is adapted to move with
the trigger 112, so that when a user squeezes the trigger 112,
the coupling element 256 moves toward a trigger engagement
portion 258 that is securely coupled to a rear portion of the
plunger 216. The trigger engagement portion 258 is positioned
relative to the coupling element 256 such that, when the
trigger 112 is fully squeezed, the coupling element 256
contacts the trigger engagement portion 258 and causes the
trigger engagement portion 258 (and, therefore, the plunger
216) to move axially rearward an amount sufficient to at least
partially establish fuel flow from the first cylindrical
cavity 240 of the valve 212 to the second cylindrical cavity
238.
[0057] The flame initiating assembly 202 also includes the
plunger 216, which has a shaft 260, a rubber seal 262 coupled
to a forward end of the shaft 260, a collar 264 for mating
with plunger spring 226 to spring-load the plunger 216. The
coupling element 256 is operatively coupled to the shaft 260.
The continuous-flame mode engagement portion 222 is coupled to
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the shaft 260 at a rear end thereof. Fastening elements 266
hold the trigger engagement portion 258 and the
continuous-flame mode engagement portion 222 in place. The
illustrated fastening elements include a nut 268 and a lock
washer 271. However, other fastening elements could be used
as well.
[0058] The illustrated embodiment shows the
continuous-flame mode engagement portion 222 and the trigger
engagement portion 258 formed as a distinct piece that is fit
over the end of the plunger shaft 260. However, in other
embodiments, the continuous-flame mode engagement portion and
trigger engagement portion 258 are integrally formed (e.g., by
integral casting, welding, etc.) with the plunger shaft 260.
The illustrated continuous-flame mode engagement portion 222
and trigger engagement portion 258 have openings that extend
in an axial direction, through which the plunger shaft 260
passes in an axial direction.
[0059] operationally, squeezing the trigger 112 results in
initiating a flame at the outlet 210 of the nozzle. Once
initiated, the flame can be maintained by keeping the trigger
112 squeezed. However, if the trigger 112 is released without
activating the continuous-flame mode, the flame is
extinguished. If, the button 114 is pressed and released
while a flame is being produced, then the torch enters the
continuous-flame mode and the flame will be maintained even if
the trigger 112 is subsequently released. If the torch is
operating in continuous-flame mode, that mode can be
deactivated by pressing and releasing the button 114 again.
Deactivation of the continuous-flame mode extinguishes the
flame. Each of those operating modes is discussed in more
detail below.
[0060] When the trigger 112 is squeezed, the trigger 112
moves from the position shown in FIG. 2A to the position shown
in FIG. 2B. When the trigger 112 moves in that manner, the
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coupling element 256 also moves. More particularly, the
coupling element 256 moves axially rearward to contact the
trigger engagement portion 258 on the plunger 216. Once
contact is established, further rearward movement of the
coupling element 256 causes the trigger engagement portion 258
and the plunger 216 to move axially rearward in the torch
assembly 106. Eventually, the plunger 216 moves a sufficient
amount to unblock the fuel inlet passage 236 of the valve 212
and allow fuel to begin flowing through the fuel flow path
208.
[0061] Squeezing the trigger 112 to move it from the
position shown in FIG. 2A to the position shown in FIG. 2B
also causes the igniter 218 to create an ignition spark. That
ignition spark ignites the fuel that is flowing through the
outlet 210 of the nozzle 108.
[0062] Once a flame is established at the outlet 210 of
the nozzle 108, if the trigger 112 is held in a squeezed
position (FIG. 2B), then the coupling element 256 keeps the
plunger 216 in an open position (FIG. 2B) allowing fuel flow
through the fuel flow path 208. Accordingly, a flame is
maintained at the outlet 210. However, if continuous-flame
mode has not been activated and the trigger 112 is released,
the trigger 112 and the plunger 216 return to their respective
positions shown in FIG. 2A. The plunger 216 moves under force
from plunger spring 226 and the trigger 112 moves under force
from a trigger spring (not shown in the illustrated
embodiment). The plunger 216, therefore, terminates fuel flow
through the fuel flow path 208 by blocking the second
cylindrical cavity 238 of the valve 212.
[0063] If the button 114 is pressed when the plunger 216
is in an open position (FIG. 2B), the latching mechanism 220
moves toward the continuous-flame mode engagement portion 222
on the plunger 216. Eventually, the distal ends 306 of the
flexible claws 304 contact a portion of the angled surface
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227. Once that contact is established, further movement of
the flexible claws 304 in the same direction causes the distal
ends 306 to move along the angled surface 227 to portions
thereof having an increasingly larger diameter. To
accommodate the increasing diameter of the angled surface 227,
the flexible claws 304 flex outwardly. Once the flexible
claws 304 move forward an amount that is sufficient to allow
the distal ends to flex past the step formed by the forward
end of the lip 225 and the trigger engagement portion 258, the
flexible claws 304 flex inwardly, thereby gripping and
engaging the continuous-flame mode engagement portion 222 and
placing the torch assembly 106 into a continuous-flame
operating mode.
[0064] Once the continuous-flame operating mode has been
activated, the trigger 112 can be released without
extinguishing the flame at the outlet 210. That is because
the flexible claws 304 of the latching mechanism 220 hold the
plunger 216 in the open position (FIG. 2B).
[0065] To deactivate the continuous-flame mode, the
flexible claws 304 can be disengaged from the continuous-flame
mode engagement portion 222. To accomplish that, a user can
once again press the button 114. That causes the flexible
claws 304 to move axially forward and, eventually, contact the
fixed element 224. Once contact is established, further
movement of the flexible claws in the same direction causes
the flexible claws 304 to flex outwardly to a point where the
distal ends 306 of the flexible claws 304 clear the widest
section (i.e., the step) of the continuous-flame mode
engagement portion 222. Once the widest section is cleared,
the plunger 216 is free to move under the force from plunger
spring 226 to a closed position (FIG. 2A) preventing fuel flow
through the fuel flow path 208 and extinguishing the flame.
[0066] The flame adjuster lever 117 can be moved anytime
to adjust the rate of fuel flow that can pass through the fuel
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flow path 208. Rate of fuel flow determines the intensity of
the flame that can be created at the outlet 210. Moving the
flame adjuster lever 117 adjusts the clearance between the
slightly tapered cylindrical extension 248 and the
corresponding slightly tapered cylindrical opening 250 in the
valve nest 215. More particularly, moving the flame adjuster
lever 117 causes the valve body 214 to move axially through
the valve nest 215. Moving the valve body 214 rearward (i.e.,
toward the button 114) increases the clearance between the
slightly tapered cylindrical extension 248 and the
corresponding slightly tapered cylindrical opening 250 and,
therefore, increases the intensity of the flame that can be
produced. Conversely, moving the valve body 214 forward
(i.e., toward the nozzle 108) increases the clearance between
the slightly tapered cylindrical extension 248 and the
corresponding slightly tapered cylindrical opening 250 and,
therefore, decreases the intensity of the flame that can be
produced.
[0067] In some embodiments, the trigger 112 is
child-resistant. That child resistance can be achieved by
virtue of a spring (not visible in FIGS. 2A and 2B, but see
404 in FIG. 4) coupled to the trigger 112 in a manner that
makes the torch 100 resist successful operation by young
children. In a typical embodiment, the spring would be
adapted to require at least eight pounds of force to operate
the trigger 112. More preferably, the spring would be adapted
to require at least ten pounds of force to operate the trigger
112. Other methods of making the trigger 112 child-resistant
are possible.
[0068] FIG. 4 is a cutaway partial side-view of an
alternative embodiment of a hand-held torch 400 that is
capable of being operated in a continuous-flame mode.
[0069] The embodiment of FIG. 4 is very similar to the
embodiment discussed above in connection with FIGS. 2A and 2B.
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However, the fixed element in FIG. 4 is a pair of pins 402
that extend from the torch's housing 110. The pins 402 are
positioned so that the flexible claws 304 can contact them to
disengage from the continuous-flame mode engagement portion
222.
[0070] Also, the embodiment of FIG. 4 shows a spring 404
coupled to the trigger 112 in a manner that causes the trigger
112 to resist successful operation by a young child. In some
embodiments, the spring 404 spring loads the trigger 112 so
that successful operation requires application of at least
eight pounds of force. In other embodiments, the spring 404
spring loads the trigger 112 so that successful operation
requires application of at least ten pounds of force. More
generally, the spring 404 is adapted to require applications
of force that will render the trigger child-resistant, in
accordance with applicable regulations.
[0071] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the valve body 214
of FIGS. 2A and 2B. FIG. 5B is a cutaway side view of the
valve body 214.
[0072] The valve body 214 includes a fuel inlet passage
236 that extends radially through the valve body 214 and opens
into a first cylindrical cavity 240. A second cylindrical
cavity 238 with a narrower diameter than the first cylindrical
cavity 240 is connected to and axially aligned with the first
cylindrical cavity 240. A fuel outlet passage 242 extends
from the second cylindrical cavity 238 radially outward
through the valve body 214. A rear cylindrical portion 245
also is connected to and axially aligned with the first
cylindrical cavity 240. The rear cylindrical portion 245
extends from the first cylindrical cavity 240 in a direction
that is opposite the second cylindrical cavity 238. The rear
cylindrical portion forms a cavity 243 that has a larger
diameter than both the first and second cylindrical cavities
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240, 238. The outer surface of the rear cylindrical portion
245 is threaded.
[0073] A pair of grooves 502 is formed in an outer surface
of the valve body 214. Those grooves 502 are adapted to
receive o-rings (i.e., o-rings 251 in FIGS. 2A and 2B). The
forward tip 247 of the valve body 214 forms a slightly tapered
cylindrical extension 248.
[0074] FIGS. 6A and 6B are partial cutaway side-views of
an alternative embodiment of a hand-held torch 600 that is
capable of being operated in a continuous-flame mode by means
of a latching mechanism as further illustrated in Fig. 7. In
FIG. 6A, the torch assembly 106 is shown in an off state. In
FIG. 6B, the torch assembly 106 is shown in an on state.
[0075] Referring to Fig. 7, the illustrated latching
mechanism 219 includes a base element 602, a pair of claws
604, and spring 606. The base element 602 includes a pair of
pivots 608, to which each claw 604 at one end thereof is
connected and about which each claw 604 can rotate. The
spring 606 is connected to each claw 604 and applies a force
which causes the claws 604 to rotate towards each other about
the pivots 608. In the illustrated embodiment, the spring 606
is a helical extension spring. However, in alternative
embodiments the spring 606 may be comprised of other elements
capable of providing a pivoting force to the claws 604. For
example, the spring 606 may be a stretchable material, such as
a rubber band, or the spring 606 may be a pair of torsion
springs connected to the claws 604 and disposed around the
pivots 608.
[0076] Each claw 604 of the latching mechanism 219
includes a stop 610 at one end thereof which is configured to
engage the base element 602 and prevent the claws 604 from
rotating towards each other beyond a predetermined angle.
When the torch assembly 106 is off, as shown in FIG. 7, the
spring 606 causes the stops 610 of the claws 604 to engage the
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base element 602 such that the claws 604 are angled slightly
away from one another.
[0077] Similar to the claws 304 of the latching mechanism
220 of FIGS. 2A and 2B, the claws 604 of FIGS. 6A and 6B have
distal ends 612 with tips that face approximately towards each
other to facilitate engagement with gripping the
continuous-flame mode engagement portion 223 on the plunger
216. The distal ends 612 of the claws 604 are configured to
engage the continuous-flame mode engagement portion 223 in the
same manner as the distal ends 306 of the claws 304 of FIGS.
2A and 2B. Any suitable design of the cooperating elements is
contemplated.
[0078] The latching mechanism 219 is connected to the
button 114 in the same manner as the latching mechanism 220 of
FIGS 2A and 2B. That is, the base element 602 is coupled to
the stem 221 of the button 114 by a fastening element 253
which passes through a hole (not shown) in the base element
602. In an alternative embodiment (not shown) the base
element 602 is integrally formed with the stem 221. In this
later embodiment, the base element 602 does not include a hole
and the fastening element 253 is not included.
[0079] The continuous-flame mode engagement portion 223
operates in a similar manner as the continuous-flame mode
engagement portion 222 of FIGS. 2A and 2B, but it is
configured differently. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the
continuous-flame mode engagement portion 223 is formed as a
single plate-like element which is formed to include a first
portion 614 which extends perpendicularly away from the shaft
260 of the plunger 216 and then bends approximately 90
towards the latching mechanism 219. This first portion 614
forms the trigger engagement portion 258 as described above.
The continuous-flame mode engagement portion then bends back
approximately 90 and continues perpendicularly away from the
shaft 260 before bending at a slight angle in a direction
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towards the nozzle 108 and coming to an end 618, thus forming
the second portion. This second portion 616 forms the lip 225
with an angled surface 227 as described above. The
continuous-flame mode engagement portion 223 is coupled to the
shaft 260 by fastening elements 266, as described above with
respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B. It will be understood from the
function of the' continuous-flame mode engagement portion 223
that other designs are contemplated. It is only required that
the engagement portion 223 and claims 604 be cooperatively
designed for releasable engagement with one another.
[0080] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the plate-like
continuous-flame mode engagement portion 223 has a generally
rectangular shape when viewed along the axis of the shaft 260.
Accordingly, to prevent rotation of the continuous-flame mode
engagement portion 223, which might cause it to become
misaligned with the latching mechanism 219, a rib 620 extends
from the torch's housing 110. The rib 620 is configured to
contact the continuous-flame mode engagement portion 223 and
permit it to move in a direction along the axis of the shaft
260, while preventing it from rotating around the axis.
Similarly, ribs 622 extend from the housing 110 to prevent the
latching mechanism 219 from rotating. Though the illustrated
continuous-flame mode engagement portion 223 has a rectangular
shape, that element may have any shape. For example, the
continuous-flame mode engagement portion 223 may have a
circular shape when viewed along the axis of the shaft 260, in
which case the rib 620 may not be required because rotation of
a continuous-flame mode engagement portion 223 having that
shape will not cause it to become misaligned with the latching
mechanism 219.
[0081] The interaction between the latching mechanism 219
and the continuous-flame mode engagement portion 223 is
substantially the same as described above with respect to
FIGS. 2A and 2B. In particular, if the button 114 is pressed
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when the plunger 216 is in an open position, the latching
mechanism 219 moves towards the continuous-flame mode
engagement portion 223 on the plunger. The distal ends 612 of
the claws 604 contact a portion of the angled surface 227 and
then move along the angled surface 227. This movement causes
the claws 604 to rotate outwardly about the pivots 608 of the
base element 602. Once the distal ends 612 of the claws 604
pass the ends 618 of the continuous-flame mode engagement
portion 223, the spring 606 causes the claws 604 to rotate
inwardly, thereby gripping and engaging the continuous-flame
mode engagement portion 223 and placing the torch assembly 106
into a continuous-flame operating mode. In this mode, as
described above, the claws 604 of the latching mechanism 219
hold the plunger 216 in the open position (FIG. 6B). It is to
be understood that the latching mechanism 219 is to be
constructed as a single rotatable claw 604, which can be
biased by a spring 606 to a fixed member such as one extending
from or part of the base element 602.
[0082] Deactivation of the continuous-flame mode of the
torch 600 is substantially the same as described above with
respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B. In particular, when a user once
again presses the button 114, the claws 604 move axially
forward and contact a pair of pins 402 that extend from the
torch's housing 110. Further movement in the same direction
causes the claws 604 to rotate outwardly until the distal ends
612 of the claws 604 clear the ends 618 of the
continuous-flame mode engagement portion 223, which allows the
plunger 216 to move under the force from the plunger spring
226 to a closed position (FIG. 6A).
[0083] Other alternative embodiments are illustrated by
FIGS. 6A and 6B. For example, instead of the fuel storage
compartment 206 illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, one preferred
embodiment may include a fuel transfer adaptor 624 configured
to releasably attach to a fuel container, as disclosed in
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above referenced U.S. Patent No. 6,959,742. The fuel flow
path of that embodiment is substantially the same as described
above with respect to the embodiment of FIGS. 2A and 2B. In
particular, the coupling tube (not shown) provides for fluid
communication between the attachable fuel container (not
shown) and the fuel inlet passage 236. Instead of approaching
the valve body 214 from below, however, the coupling tube of
the illustrated embodiment directs the fuel flow into an inlet
626 through the valve nest 215 which is located above the
valve body 214. From the inlet 626, the fuel is directed to
the fuel inlet passage 236 through a plenum 628, which is
created by the space bounded by the valve body 214, the valve
nest 215, and the o-rings 251. Once inside the fuel inlet
passage 236, the fuel follows the remainder of the fuel flow
path 208 exactly as described above with respect to the
embodiment of FIGS. 2A and 2B.
[0084] Another optional feature illustrated in FIGS. 6A
and 6B is an evaporation tube 632, which is an extension of
the fuel flow path 208. The evaporation tube 632 provides for
fluid communication between the slightly tapered cylindrical
opening 250 and the outlet 210 of the nozzle 108. Upon
exiting the slightly tapered cylindrical opening 250, the fuel
enters the inlet passage 634 of the evaporation tube 632. The
evaporation tube 632 is shaped such that the fuel moving
through it proceeds from the inlet passage 634 to the
evaporation portion 636, which is located in the nozzle 108.
Once in the evaporation portion 636, the fuel is heated
because of its proximity to the flame being produced in the
nozzle 108. This heating of the fuel ensures that any fuel
which heretofore remained in a liquid state evaporates and
becomes a gas before being ignited. The gaseous fuel then
proceeds along the evaporation tube 632, which bends back away
from the outlet 210 and exits the nozzle 108. The fuel then
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exits the evaporation tube 632 from the outlet passage 638 and
proceeds to the nozzle 108 to be ignited.
[0085] Although the invention herein has been described
with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be
understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of
the principles and applications of the present invention. It
is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may
be made to the illustrative embodiments and that other
arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit
and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended
claims.
[0086] For example, the latching mechanism could be
adapted to engage the plunger in a variety of other ways, for
example, by using a tab to engage a slot, by utilizing other
gripping means, etc. Additionally, other techniques may be
used to prevent and/or allow fuel flow through the torch. For
example, any number of simple valve configurations could be
used. A variety of materials can be used to manufacture the
structures disclosed herein, and a variety of methods can be
utilized to secure those structures to each other.
[0087] Although specific actuating mechanisms have been
described, there are a variety of suitable actuating
mechanisms, e.g., switches, knobs, buttons, etc. that might be
used instead of those specifically disclosed herein. Other
techniques for igniting the fuel are possible and a variety of
fuel types are possible.
[0088] Additionally, although two claws are shown, any
number of claws (including only one) may be suitable for a
particular embodiment. Moreover, the claws can be formed from
flexible wires, tubes or other configurations. The claws can
be metallic, plastic or any suitable material.
[0089] In some implementations, the torch housing 110 is
split (i.e., it consists of two halves that are connected
together after the torch internals have been assembled). The
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torch housing 110 may be formed in a number of other ways as
well.
[0090] Additionally, further embodiments within the scope
of the present invention may be created by combining elements
from certain described embodiments with elements from other
described embodiments. For example, any embodiment may
include either the unitary latching mechanism 220 of FIGS. 2A
and 2B or the latching mechanism 219 comprised of a plurality
of components as illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, or
equivalents thereof. Further, such embodiment may include
either the continuous-flame mode engagement portion 222
illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B or the continuous-flame mode
engagement portion 223 illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, or
equivalents thereof. Additionally, such embodiment may
include either a fuel storage compartment 206 or a fuel
transfer adaptor 624 configured to releasably attach to a fuel
container. Any such embodiment may further include either the
fixed element 224 illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B or the fixed
element comprising a pair of pins 402, or equivalents thereof.
[0091] Moreover, the techniques and structures disclosed
herein may be readily adapted to a variety of lighter and
torch applications.
[0092] Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope
of the following claims.
