WO2024259065A1

WO2024259065A1 - Torch assembly

Info

Publication number: WO2024259065A1
Application number: PCT/US2024/033752
Authority: WO
Inventors: Christopher Francis Kreuser; Dustin Lee; Thomas A. WASHENKO; Cliff R. Walters
Original assignee: Worthington Torch LLC
Current assignee: Worthington Torch LLC
Priority date: 2023-06-15
Filing date: 2024-06-13
Publication date: 2024-12-19
Anticipated expiration: 2025-12-15
Also published as: CN121569148A; AU2024301972A1; US20240418365A1

Abstract

Provided is a torch assembly comprising a body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, an ignitor assembly, and a burn tube comprising a first portion oriented in a direction of a longitudinal axis of the body and having a first diameter, and a second portion having a bend configured to direct the flame of the torch in a direction with respect to the longitudinal axis, the second portion having a second diameter greater than the first diameter. The angle of the bend can be ninety-degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis. The torch can further include a trigger lock mechanism to restrict movement of a trigger and a run lock mechanism configured to hold the trigger in an on position.

Description

TORCH ASSEMBLY

Cross-Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63/508,411 filed on June 15, 2023 entitled “TORCH ASSEMBLY”, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Technical Field

[0002] This application relates generally to gas torches, and more particularly, propane and propylene torches.

Background of the Invention

[0003] Torches are often used for various applications such as metalwork, cooking, brazing, soldering, plumbing, heating, melting, lighting, or burning materials. Common fuels for torches include propylene, propane, MAPP (MethylAcetylene-Propadiene Propane), a combination thereof, or other liquid or gas fuels. Torches mix the fuel with air to achieve combustion and to produce a flame. Torches can be removeably attached to a fuel cylinder for ease of use and transportation.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a torch is provided that includes a first end and a second end opposite the first end, a hollow body proximate the second end, a neck proximate the first end, wherein the neck comprises a first portion oriented in a direction of a longitudinal axis of the body, and a second portion oriented at a ninety degree angle respective to the first portion thereby forming a bend in the neck proximate the first end of the torch assembly, the bend configured to direct the flame of the torch in a direction of the second portion of the neck.

[0005] The torch is small, compact, and conveniently shaped such that the torch can reach small or difficult-to-reach locations by redirecting the torch flame at angle with respect to the torch body. This is accomplished at least in part by way of a ninety-degree bend in the torch head (neck). The burn tube is also bent at ninety degrees within the neck and is engineered to provide a consistent and desirable flame suitable for many applications. [0006] In an implementation, the torch assembly is configured to produce a flame. The torch assembly comprises a body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, an ignitor assembly disposed within the body to produce a flame, and a bum tube proximate the second end of the body and in fluid connection with the ignitor assembly.

[0007] The bum tube comprises a first portion and a second portion. The first portion extends from the second end of the body, is oriented in a direction of a longitudinal axis extending from the first end of the body to the second end of the body, and comprises a first diameter. The second portion comprises a first section oriented in a direction of the longitudinal axis and a second section oriented at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis thereby forming a bend in the bum tube. The bend is configured to direct the flame of the torch assembly at the angle with respect to the longitudinal axis. The second portion further comprises a second diameter greater than the first diameter.

[0008] In another implementation, the angle of the bend is ninety degrees.

[0009] In yet another implementation, the second portion of the burn tube further comprises a mid-section, the first end of the second portion is substantially cylindrical and has the second diameter, and the mid-section of the second portion comprises the bend.

[0010] In a further implementation, the bum tube comprises a frustoconical transition portion located between the first portion of the burn tube and the second portion of the burn tube. The frustoconical transition portion comprises a first end at the first diameter and a second end at the second diameter, wherein the frustoconical transition portion is configured to transition the bum tube from the first diameter to the second diameter.

[0011] In another implementation, the first portion of the burn tube comprises a first section and a second section, wherein the first section comprises at least one vent and has a third diameter, the second section is at the first diameter, and the third diameter is greater than the first diameter.

[0012] In yet another implementation, the first portion of the bum tube is integrally formed with the frustoconical transition portion of the bum tube, and the frustoconical transition portion is integrally formed with the second portion of the burn tube.

[0013] In a further implementation, the torch assembly further comprises a neck having a first portion and a second portion oriented at an angle with respect to the first portion, wherein the burn tube is disposed within the neck.

[0014] In another implementation, the bend in the second portion of the burn tube comprises a first bend radius proximate the first section of the second portion and a second bend radius proximate the second section of the second portion, wherein the first bend radius is larger than the second bend radius.

[0015] In yet another implementation, the bend radius decreases along the second portion of the burn tube in a direction from the first section to the second section such that the bend is sharper near the second section of the second portion.

[0016] In a further implementation, the body further comprises a trigger moveable between an on position and an off position, the trigger being biased in the off position.

[0017] In another implementation, the torch assembly further comprises a safety lock mechanism configured to restrict movement of the trigger of the torch assembly from the off position.

[0018] In yet another implementation, the safety lock mechanism is moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position, the safety lock mechanism being configured to restrict movement of the trigger of the torch assembly in the off position when in the locked position, and being further configured to provide no restriction to movement of the trigger when in the unlocked position.

[0019] In a further implementation, the torch assembly further comprises a run lock mechanism configured to hold the trigger of the torch assembly in the on position when a user releases the trigger. [0020] In another implementation, the run lock mechanism is moveable between an engaged position and a disengaged position, the run lock mechanism being configured to hold the trigger of the torch assembly in the on position when in the engaged position, and being further configured to provide no restriction to movement of the trigger when in the disengaged position.

[0021] In yet another implementation, the run lock mechanism is transitioned from the engaged position to the disengaged position when the trigger is moved to the on position.

[0022] In a further implementation, the torch assembly further comprises a fuel canister to supply a fuel to the ignitor assembly.

[0023] In another implementation, a torch comprises a body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, an ignitor assembly disposed within the body to produce a flame, and a burn tube proximate the second end of the body and in fluid connection with the ignitor assembly. The burn tube comprises a first portion, a second portion, and a frustoconical transition portion.

[0024] The first portion extends from the second end of the body, is oriented in a direction of a longitudinal axis extending from the first end of the body to the second end of the body, and has a first diameter. The second portion comprises a first section oriented in a direction of the longitudinal axis and a second section oriented at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis, thereby forming a bend in the bum tube. The bend is configured to direct the flame of the torch at the angle with respect to the longitudinal axis. The second portion further comprises a second diameter greater than the first diameter. The frustoconical transition portion is located between the first portion of the bum tube and the second portion of the bum tube, and comprises a first end at the first diameter and a second end at the second diameter. The frustoconical transition portion is configured to transition a diameter of the burn tube from the first diameter to the second diameter.

[0025] In yet another implementation, the first portion of the bum tube comprises a first section and a second section, wherein the first section comprises at least one vent and has a third diameter, the second section is at the first diameter, and the third diameter is greater than the first diameter and less than the second diameter.

[0026] In a further implementation, a torch comprises a bum tube in fluid connection with an ignitor assembly. The burn tube comprises a bottom portion, atop portion, and a frustoconical portion. The bottom portion is oriented in a direction of a longitudinal axis extending from a first end to a second end of a body of the torch, has a first diameter, and comprises a first section and a second section. The top portion comprises a first section oriented in a direction of the longitudinal axis and a second section oriented at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis thereby forming a bend in the burn tube. The bend is configured to direct a flame of the torch at the angle with respect to the longitudinal axis. The top portion further comprises a second diameter greater than the first diameter. The frustoconical transition portion is located between the top portion of the burn tube and the bottom portion of the bum tube, and comprises a first end at the first diameter and a second end at the second diameter. The frustoconical transition portion is configured to transition a diameter of the bum tube from the first diameter to the second diameter. The bum tube is further configured such that the first section of the top portion has a third diameter and the second section of the first portion is at the first diameter, the third diameter being greater than the first diameter and less than the second diameter.

[0027] These and other objects of this invention will be evident when viewed in light of the drawings, detailed description and appended claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0028] The invention may take physical form in certain parts and arrangements of parts, a preferred embodiment of which will be described in detail in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof.

[0029] FIG. l is a perspective view of an exemplary torch assembly.

[0030] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the torch assembly. [0031] FIG. 3 is a close-up cross-sectional view of the torch assembly.

[0032] FIG. 4 is a close-up perspective view of the safety locking mechanism of the torch assembly.

[0033] FIG. 5 is a close-up cross-sectional view of the safety locking mechanism of the torch assembly.

[0034] FIG. 6 is a close-up perspective view of the run lock mechanism of the torch assembly.

[0035] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a burn tube of the torch assembly.

[0036] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a bum tube of the torch assembly.

[0037] FIG. 9 is an image of a burn uniformity model of an exemplary torch assembly having a burn tube having a uniform diameter.

[0038] FIG. 10 is an image of a bum uniformity model of an exemplary torch assembly having an exemplary bum tube having at least a first diameter and a second diameter as described herein.

[0039] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary lanyard holder for the torch assembly.

[0040] FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary clip holder for the torch assembly.

[0041] FIG. 13 is a view of an exemplary torch assembly in use.

[0042] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary torch assembly shown in FIG. 14.

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0043] Embodiments of the invention relate to methods and systems of a gas torch assembly. In some applications or uses, there may be limited space or a torch may be required to reach a location that is at a difficult-to-reach angle. For example, a plumber may need to reach a location to solder copper pipes between joists, beams, trusses, or studs of a building. Depending on spacing and layout, typical torches may not fit in the desired location. Or, if typical torches do fit, the angle in which the flame exits the torch head may be undesirable. Due to the size of torches or other size constraints, users may not be able to rotate a typical torch such so the flame is directed at the desired angle. The torch assembly provided herein, or torch for short, includes a bend in the neck of the torch assembly to redirect the flame of the torch assembly at a desired angle. In some embodiments, this angle may be ninety degrees from the body of the torch assembly such that the flame is directed toward the front of the torch assembly. Directing the flame at an angle as described may allow a user to reach otherwise unreachable locations for metalwork, cooking, brazing, soldering, plumbing, heating, melting, lighting, or otherwise burning materials.

[0044] With reference to the drawings herein, like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several views. However, the inclusion of like elements in different views does not mean a given embodiment necessarily includes such elements or that all embodiments of the invention include such elements. The examples and figures are illustrative only and not meant to limit the invention, which is measured by the scope and spirit of the claims.

[0045] Turning to Figure 1, an exemplary implementation of a torch assembly 100 is shown. The torch assembly 100 includes a body 102 having a first end 104 and a second end 106 opposite the first end 104, an ignitor assembly 150 disposed within the body 102 to produce a flame 152, and a burn tube 170 proximate the second end 106 of the body 102 in fluid connection with the ignitor assembly 150 and disposed within a neck 108. The bum tube 170 includes a bend 192 to redirect the flame 152 from a first direction 112 to a second direction 114. The first direction 112 is approximately in-line or parallel with a longitudinal direction of the body 102. The second direction 114 is at an angle a from the first direction 112 such that the second direction 114 is oriented towards a front of the torch assembly 100. It should be appreciated that the angle a can be ninety degrees or may also be any suitable angle less than or greater than ninety degrees according to user requirements. In some embodiments, the neck 108 may be adjustable between a plurality of angles to adjust the flame 152 at a desired angle or location. In other embodiments, the angle a is an angle that is between 0 and 180 degrees. Yet in other embodiments, the angle a is an angle that is between 60 and 120 degrees. Or in other embodiments, the angle a is an angle that is between 80 and 100 degrees. It should be appreciated that the angle a can be any suitable angle and the various diameters and curvatures of the burn tube 170 may be adjusted according to the angle a to achieve improved performance characteristics.

[0046] Turning to Figure 2, a cross section of the torch assembly 100 is shown. The body 102 comprises a first end 104 and a second end 106 opposite the first end 104. The body 102 is configured to receive a fuel canister 116, house the ignitor assembly 150, facilitate the operation of the ignitor assembly 150, and direct the flame 152 from the ignitor assembly 150 through the burn tube 170. The body 102 is further configured to be held and operated as a handheld assembly. As shown in the figures, the body 102 comprises a grip portion 120 and is ergonomically designed.

[0047] To receive the fuel canister 116, the body 102 comprises a fuel opening 118 proximate the first end 104 sized and shaped to receive a fuel canister 116 for providing fuel to the ignitor assembly 150. As shown in Figure 2, the fuel opening 118 is substantially circular and sized and shaped to receive a substantially cylindrical fuel canister 116. It will be appreciated that the fuel opening 118 may be any size or shape to facilitate engagement with a desired fuel canister 116.

[0048] To house the ignitor assembly 150, the body 102 is a hollow body 102 having at least one cavity 122 configured to house and support the ignitor assembly 150. The hollow body 102 further comprises at least one external vent 124 for controlling the heat of the torch assembly 100 and enabling air flow. The ignitor assembly 150 comprises a fuel canister coupling 156, a fuel regulator system 158, an ignitor 162, and a conduit portion 164. The fuel canister coupling 156 is positioned proximate the first end 104 of the body 102 for being operably engaged with a fuel canister 116 to provide fuel to the ignitor assembly 150. To operably engage with the fuel canister 116, the fuel canister coupling 156 may be threaded so as to threadably receive the fuel canister 1 16.

[0049] To control the flow of fuel from the fuel canister 116, the fuel regulator system 158 is operably in fluid communication with the fuel canister coupling 156. The fuel regulator system 158 comprises a valve actuating device 160 at an end of the fuel regulator system 158 opposite the fuel canister 116. When engaged, the valve actuating device 160 enables a flow of fuel from the fuel canister 116 through the fuel regulator system 158 to the conduit portion 164. It will be appreciated that the fuel regulator system 158 is configured to prevent a backflow of fuel, gas, and/or air from the conduit portion 164 through the fuel regulator system 158 towards the fuel canister coupling 156 and fuel canister 116.

[0050] To ignite the fuel in the conduit portion 164, an ignitor 162 is coupled to the conduit portion 164. When engaged, the ignitor 162 creates a spark in the conduit portion 164 that ignites the fuel to produce a flame 152. The flame 152 then travels along the conduit portion 164 toward the second end 106 of the body 102 and into the bum tube 170. As shown in Figure 2, an end of the conduit portion 164 opposite the fuel regulator system 158 and ignitor 162 is fluidly coupled to the burn tube 170 and may comprise a nozzle 166 to further control the flow of the flame 152 into the burn tube 170.

[0051] As shown in Figure 3, to facilitate the operation of the ignitor assembly 150, the body 102 further comprises a trigger 126 for engaging the ignitor assembly 150, a safety lock 130, and a run lock 134 for engaging the trigger 126. The trigger 126 can control the amount of fuel that is released from the fuel canister 116 to fuel the burn tube 170. The trigger 126 can be moveable between at least two positions: an OFF position and an ON position. The trigger 126 is biased in the OFF position. When the trigger 126 is pulled into the ON position, the trigger 126 engages the valve actuating device 160 of the fuel regulator system 158, allowing a portion of fuel to flow into the conduit portion 164. The trigger 126 is further configured to engage the ignitor 162 when pulled into the ON position such that the ignitor 162 may ignite the portion of fuel when the trigger 126 is pulled into the ON position. When the trigger 126 is released it is biased into the OFF position, and the fuel regulator system 158 may be disengaged to cut off the fuel supply to stop the flame 152. It will be appreciated that the trigger 126 may be configured to be slidingly engaged such that when a user pulls the trigger 126 into the ON position the entire trigger 126 is translated along an axis 127. Alternatively, the trigger 126 may be configured to be pivotably engaged such that when a user pulls the trigger 126 into the ON position a portion of the trigger 126 is translated along an axis 127 about an end of the trigger 126. [0052] The body 102 can include a safety lock 130, further illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, for engaging the trigger 126. The safety lock 130 may be moveable between at least two positions: safety ON (locked) and safety OFF (unlocked). The safety lock 130 is configured such that when the safety lock 130 is in the ON (locked) position, the trigger 126 is prevented from moving to the ON position. For example, the safety lock 130 includes an elongated body 132 that, when the safety lock 130 is in the ON position, the elongated body 132 restricts the movement of the trigger 126. In this manner, the torch assembly 100 is prevented from turning on or creating a flame 152 (e.g., dispensing and lighting fuel). This ON (locked) position can be used for storage or when the torch assembly 100 is otherwise not in use. When the safety lock 130 is in the OFF (unlocked) position, the elongated body 132 of the safety lock 130 is no longer in a position to impede the motion of the trigger 126, and the torch assembly 100 and trigger 126 can be used as normal. Figure 5 illustrates a close up cross section of the torch assembly 100 and the functionality of the safety lock 130. It will be appreciated that the safety lock 130 may be formed with the body 102 of the torch assembly 100 or, alternatively, with the neck 108 of the torch assembly 100.

[0053] The body 102 can also include a run lock 134, further illustrated in Figures 3 and 6, for engaging the trigger 126. The run lock 134 can be moveable between at least two positions: a run lock ON position and a run lock OFF position. When the run lock 134 is in the OFF position, the torch assembly 100 and trigger 126 operate as normal. When the run lock 134 is in the ON position, the trigger 126 is locked into the ON position. For example, when a user pulls the trigger 126 to the ON position, a flame 152 may be produced by the torch assembly 100. While holding the trigger 126 in the ON position, the user can press the run lock 134 to lock the trigger 126 in the ON position by engaging a pin 136 of the run lock 134 with a catch 128 of the trigger 126. Once this is completed, the user can remove a finger from the trigger 126 while the trigger 126 remains held in the ON position by the pin 136 such that the torch assembly 100 produces a flame 152 without the user having to maintain pressure on the trigger 126. To release the run lock 134, or to place the run lock 134 into the OFF position, the user can pull the trigger 126, thereby disengaging the pin 136 of the run lock 134 from the catch 128 of the trigger 126. When the trigger 126 is pulled, the run lock 134 is released. The trigger 126 can then be released to cut off fuel flow into the bum tube 170 and extinguish the flame 152. In certain embodiments, the run lock 134 can also be released or placed in to the OFF position by manually moving the run lock 134 into the OFF position. It will be appreciated that the run lock 134 may be any locking system capable of catching and releasing the trigger 126, for example, a latch system, a spring system, etc. It will also be appreciated that the run lock 134 may be configured to be slidingly engaged such that when a user presses the run lock 134 into the ON position the run lock 134 is translated along an axis 135.

[0054] To control or direct the flame 152, the torch assembly 100 further comprises a bum tube 170. Turning to Figures 7 and 8, the bum tube 170 and a cross-section of the burn tube 170 is shown, respectively. The bum tube 170 comprises a first portion 172, a frustoconical transition portion 178, and a second portion 186. It will be appreciated that all portions of the bum tube 170 may be integrally formed such that the burn tube 170 is a single component. The bum tube 170 may comprise a bend 192 for directing the flame 152 of the torch assembly 100 at an angle a. The frustoconical transition portion 178 may be located between the first portion 172 and the second portion 186 to transition from a first diameter 180 to a second diameter 182. Namely, the first portion 172 of the bum tube 170 can direct the flame 152 from the ignitor assembly 150, through a second portion 186 having a bend 192, to an output (or flame tip) 110. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, a burn tube 170 cannot simply be bent at an angle without accounting for fluid dynamic characteristics, bum characteristics, and other similar constraints. In other words, simply placing a bend in the bum tube 170 may create undesirable flame characteristics. The bum tube 170 of the present application may include features designed to achieve desired burn characteristics and fluid dynamics. In some examples, the first portion 172 may be referred to as a bottom portion, and the second portion 186 may be referred to as a top portion.

[0055] For instance, as illustrated in Figures 7 and 8, the bum tube 170 consists of at least two different widths or diameters along the length of the bum tube 170. Specifically, the first portion 172 of the burn tube 170 comprises a first vented section 174 coupled to the conduit portion 164 of the ignitor assembly 150 and a second section 176 having a first diameter 180. The frustoconical transition portion 178 may be affixed to the second section 176 at a first end and to a first section 188 of the second portion 186 of the bum tube 170 at a second end to transition the first portion 172 from the first diameter 180 to a second diameter 182, the second diameter 182 being greater than the first diameter 180. Said differently, the frustoconical transition portion 178 can comprise a first end having a diameter corresponding to the first diameter 180 of the second section 176 of the first portion 172 and a second end having a diameter corresponding to the second diameter 182 of the second portion 186. In an implementation, the first vented section 174 has a third diameter 184, the third diameter 184 being greater than the first diameter 180 and less than the second diameter 182. The third diameter 184 may also be equal to the first diameter 180. It should be appreciated that, diameter, as used herein, may refer to an inner diameter of the burn tube 170 or similar components.

[0056] The second portion 186 of the bum tube 170 comprises a first section 188, a mid-section 190, a bend 192, and a second section 194. The first section 188 may have a second diameter 182 and be integrally formed to the frustoconical transition portion 178. The bend 192 may be angled at an angle a, and a second section 194 may be configured to be coupled to the output (or flame tip) 110. As described above, the angle a of the bend 192 may be measured from the first direction 112 which is approximately in-line or parallel with a longitudinal direction of the body 102, to the second direction 114. In one implementation, the second direction 114 is approximately ninety-degrees from the first direction 112 such that the second direction 114 is oriented towards a front of the torch assembly 100. In other words, the first portion 172 of the burn tube 170 and at least the first section 188 of the second portion 186 of the bum tube 170 are configured to direct the flame 152 in the first direction 112, the mid-section 190 of the second portion 186 of the burn tube 170 is configured to redirect the flame 152 from the first direction 112 to the second direction 114, and the second section 194 of the second portion 186 of the bum tube 170 is configured to output the flame 152 in the second direction 114. Although the angle a is illustrated at ninety degrees, it should be appreciated that the angle a can be any suitable angle directed towards the front of the torch 100 or may also be directed in any suitable direction (e.g., by rotating the burn tube 170 with respect to the body 102).

[0057] To output the flame 152 through the second portion 186 of the burn tube 170, the torch assembly 100 further comprises a flame tip 110. As shown at least in Figures 1-2, the flame tip 110 may be threadably coupled to the neck 108 of the torch assembly 100 proximate the second section 194 of the second portion 186 of the bum tube 170, the burn tube 170 being housed within the neck 108. It will be appreciated that the size, shape, configuration, and material of the flame tip 110 is dependent on desirable flame characteristics and the angle a of the bend 192 of the bum tube 170. [0058] It should also be appreciated that the bend 192 may comprise a static radius or may comprise an increasing or decreasing radius through the bend 192. For instance, as disclosed in at least Figures 7 and 8, the degree of curvature for the bend 192 may be greater (e.g., sharper) closest to the second section 194. The degree of curvature for the bend 192 may be less (e.g., less sharp) closest to the first section 188. Said differently, the radius of the bend 192 may be smallest closest to the second section 194 and greatest closest to the first section 188 such that the bend radius decreases in a direction from the first section 188 to the second section 194. The disclosed burn tube 170 design may achieve more desired burn characteristics compared to a bend having a constant radius or a burn tube of a uniform diameter.

[0059] Additionally, in another embodiment, the bum tube 170 may comprise at least two diameters such that the diameter of the bum tube 170 may get wider as it extends from the venturi ports of the ignitor assembly 150 up the bend 192 in the bum tube 170 towards the second section 194. The change in diameter may be linearly increasing, exponentially increasing, or any combination thereof. For instance, as illustrated in Figure 10, the diameter of the bum tube 170 may increase on a linear basis from a first end near the ignitor assembly 150 to the tip of the burn tube 170 (e.g., at the second section 194).

[0060] As shown in Figures 9-10, the overall characteristics of the burn tube 170 can ensure a consistent, efficient, and desirable flame by controlling the fuel to air mixture as desired. Namely, the shape, curve, size, diameter, bend, profile, variable cross-section and location of the bum tube 170 helps to ensure desired flame characteristics. Said differently, it can be difficult to achieve a sharp bend in a bum tube while maintaining desired shape and characteristics of a flame such as uniformity, heat, noise, size, color, etc. Figure 9 may illustrate flame characteristics of a bum tube having a flame uniformity of 0.8. This may be less desirable, and it may be beneficial to increase the flame uniformity for better flame characteristics. By way of example, the burn tube analyzed in the flame uniformity example of Figure 9 may be a bum tube having a uniform diameter.

[0061] The disclosed torch assembly 100 and corresponding burn tube (hydro-formed tube) 170 may achieve more desired flame characteristics, such as a flame uniformity of at least 0.9 as shown in Figure 10, because of the disclosed design of the bum tube 170. By way of example, the bum tube 170 can get wider in diameter as it extends from the venturi ports of the ignitor assembly 150 up the bend 192 in the burn tube 170. The variable diameter or variable cross-section of the bum tube 170 may help to slow the flow of the fuel and air down to a desired speed. This is possible through the expanded and variable bum tube diameter as disclosed at least in Figures 7 and 8. The speed of the fuel or air mixture affects the quality of the flame that is produced from the flame tip 110. Therefore, the variable diameter or variable cross-section of the bum tube 170 may help improve the flame characteristics such as flame uniformity.

[0062] Turning to Figures 11 and 12, the body 102 of the torch assembly 100 can further include an attachment portion 138. By way of example, and as illustrated in Figure 11, a lanyard 140 can be affixed to the attachment portion 138 to facilitate storage or carrying of the torch assembly 100. Alternatively, the attachment portion 138 may be configured to include a clip 142 as illustrated in Figure 12. The clip 142 can also be used to facilitate storage or carrying of the torch assembly 100. The clip 142 may be attached to the attachment portion 138 by sliding the clip 142 into the attachment portion 138 and securing the clip 142 with a screw or other fastening means.

[0063] Turning to Figures 13 and 14, another exemplary embodiment of a torch 200 is shown. The torch 200 can be similar in all respects to the torch assembly 100 except as described herein. Figure 13 illustrates a flame 252 produced by the torch 200 according to description provided herein for either of the torch assembly 100 or the torch 200.

[0064] The aforementioned systems, components, (e.g., valves, cylinders, among others), and the like have been described with respect to interaction between several components and/or elements. It should be appreciated that such devices and elements can include those elements or sub-elements specified therein, some of the specified elements or sub-elements, and/or additional elements. Further yet, one or more elements and/or sub-elements may be combined into a single component to provide aggregate functionality. The elements may also interact with one or more other elements not specifically described herein.

[0065] While the embodiments discussed herein have been related to the apparatus, systems and methods discussed above, these embodiments are intended to be exemplary and are not intended to limit the applicability of these embodiments to only those discussions set forth herein.

[0066] The above examples are merely illustrative of several possible embodiments of various aspects of the present invention, wherein equivalent alterations and/or modifications will occur to others skilled in the art upon reading and understanding this specification and the annexed drawings. In particular regard to the various functions performed by the above described components (assemblies, devices, systems, circuits, and the like), the terms (including a reference to a “means”) used to describe such components are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component, such as hardware, software, or combinations thereof, which performs the specified function of the described component (e.g., that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function in the illustrated implementations of the invention. In addition although a particular feature of the invention may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application. Also, to the extent that the terms “including”, “includes”, “having”, “has”, “with”, or variants thereof are used in the detailed description and/or in the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.”

[0067] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that are not different from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

[0068] In the specification and claims, reference will be made to a number of terms that have the following meanings. The singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify a quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term such as “about” is not to be limited to the precise value specified. In some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. Moreover, unless specifically stated otherwise, a use of the terms “first,” “second,” etc., do not denote an order or importance, but rather the terms “first,” “second,” etc., are used to distinguish one element from another.

[0069] As used herein, the terms “may” and “may be” indicate a possibility of an occurrence within a set of circumstances; a possession of a specified property, characteristic or function; and/or qualify another verb by expressing one or more of an ability, capability, or possibility associated with the qualified verb. Accordingly, usage of “may” and “may be” indicates that a modified term is apparently appropriate, capable, or suitable for an indicated capacity, function, or usage, while taking into account that in some circumstances the modified term may sometimes not be appropriate, capable, or suitable. For example, in some circumstances an event or capacity can be expected, while in other circumstances the event or capacity cannot occur - this distinction is captured by the terms “may” and “may be.”

[0070] The best mode for carrying out the invention has been described for purposes of illustrating the best mode known to the applicant at the time and enable one of ordinary skill in the art to practice the invention, including making and using devices or systems and performing incorporated methods. The examples are illustrative only and not meant to limit the invention, as measured by the scope and merit of the claims. The invention has been described with reference to preferred and alternate embodiments. Obviously, modifications and alterations will occur to others upon the reading and understanding of the specification. It is intended to include all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to one of ordinary skill in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differentiate from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

What is Claimed is:

1. A torch assembly configured to produce a flame, the torch assembly comprising: a body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; an ignitor assembly disposed within the body to produce a flame; and a bum tube proximate the second end of the body and in fluid connection with the ignitor assembly, the bum tube comprising: a first portion extending from the second end of the body, the first portion oriented in a direction of a longitudinal axis extending from the first end of the body to the second end of the body, the first portion having a first diameter; and a second portion comprising a first section oriented in a direction of the longitudinal axis and a second section oriented at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis thereby forming a bend in the burn tube, the bend configured to direct the flame of the torch assembly at the angle with respect to the longitudinal axis, the second portion having a second diameter greater than the first diameter.

2. The torch assembly according to claim 1, wherein the angle is between 80 and 100 degrees.

3. The torch assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a frustoconical transition portion located between the first portion of the burn tube and the second portion of the bum tube, the frustoconical transition portion having a first end at the first diameter and a second end at the second diameter, wherein the frustoconical transition portion is configured to transition the burn tube from the first diameter to the second diameter.

4. The torch assembly according to claim 3, wherein the first portion of the burn tube comprises a first section and a second section, the first section comprising at least one vent and having a third diameter, and the second section being at the first diameter, the third diameter is greater than the first diameter.

5. The torch assembly according to claim 4, wherein the first portion of the burn tube is integrally formed with the frustoconical transition portion of the bum tube, and the frustoconical transition portion is integrally formed with the second portion of the burn tube.

6. The torch assembly according to claim 1, wherein the torch assembly further comprises a neck having a first portion and a second portion oriented at an angle with respect to the first portion, the burn tube being disposed within the neck.

7. The torch assembly according to claim 1, wherein the bend in the second portion of the bum tube comprises a first bend radius proximate the first section of the second portion and a second bend radius proximate the second section of the second portion, the first bend radius is larger than the second bend radius.

8. The torch assembly according to claim 7, wherein the bend radius decreases along the second portion of the burn tube in a direction from the first section to the second section such that the bend is sharper near the second section of the second portion.

9. The torch assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a trigger moveable between an on position and an off position, the trigger biased in the off position.

10. The torch assembly according to claim 9, further comprising a safety lock mechanism configured to restrict movement of the trigger of the torch assembly from the off position.

11. The torch assembly according to claim 10, wherein the safety lock mechanism is moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position, the safety lock mechanism being configured to restrict movement of the trigger of the torch assembly in the off position when in the locked position, and being further configured to provide no restriction to movement of the trigger when in the unlocked position.

12. The torch assembly according to claim 9, further comprising a run lock mechanism configured to hold the trigger of the torch assembly in the on position when a user releases the trigger.

13. The torch assembly according to claim 12, wherein the run lock mechanism is moveable between an engaged position and a disengaged position, the run lock mechanism being configured to hold the trigger of the torch assembly in the on position when in the engaged position, and being further configured to provide no restriction to movement of the trigger when in the disengaged position.

14. The torch assembly according to claim 13, wherein the run lock mechanism is transitioned from the engaged position to the disengaged position when the trigger is moved to the on position.

15. The torch assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a fuel canister to supply a fuel to the ignitor assembly.

16. A torch comprising: a body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; an ignitor assembly disposed within the body to produce a flame; and a bum tube proximate the second end of the body and in fluid connection with the ignitor assembly, the bum tube comprising: a first portion extending from the second end of the body, the first portion oriented in a direction of a longitudinal axis extending from the first end of the body to the second end of the body, the first portion having a first diameter; a second portion comprising a first section oriented in a direction of the longitudinal axis and a second section oriented at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis thereby forming a bend in the burn tube, the bend configured to direct the flame of the torch at the angle with respect to the longitudinal axis, the second portion having a second diameter greater than the first diameter; and a frustoconical transition portion located between the first portion of the burn tube and the second portion of the bum tube, the frustoconical transition portion having a first end at the first diameter and a second end at the second diameter, wherein the frustoconical transition portion is configured to transition a diameter of the bum tube from the first diameter to the second diameter.

17. The torch according to claim 16, wherein the angle is between 80 and 100 degrees.

18. The torch according to claim 16, wherein the first portion of the burn tube comprises a first section and a second section, the first section comprising at least one vent and having a third diameter and the second section being at the first diameter, the third diameter is greater than the first diameter and less than the second diameter.

19. A torch comprising: a bum tube in fluid connection with an ignitor assembly, the bum tube comprising: a bottom portion oriented in a direction of a longitudinal axis extending from a first end to a second end of a body of the torch, the bottom portion having a first diameter, the bottom portion of the bum tube comprises a first section and a second section; a top portion comprising a first section oriented in a direction of the longitudinal axis and a second section oriented at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis thereby forming a bend in the burn tube, the bend configured to direct a flame of the torch at the angle with respect to the longitudinal axis, the top portion having a second diameter greater than the first diameter; and a frustoconical transition portion located between the top portion of the burn tube and the bottom portion of the burn tube, the frustoconical transition portion having a first end at the first diameter and a second end at the second diameter, wherein the frustoconical transition portion is configured to transition a diameter of the bum tube from the first diameter to the second diameter, and wherein the first section of the bottom portion has a third diameter and the second section of the bottom portion is at the first diameter, the third diameter is greater than the first diameter and less than the second diameter.

20. The torch according to claim 19, wherein the angle is between 80 and 100 degrees.