Description:‘The invention comprises an improvement in the invention claimed in the specification of the main patent applied for’

AN IMPROVED FIXTURE FOR CUTTING LARGE DIAMETER OPENINGS IN PLATES AND PIPES USING GAS FLAME

FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a fixture of gas flame cutting. More particularly, the invention relates to a fixture developed for cutting large diameter openings in plates and pipes using the gas flame.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0003] In our plant, plates and pipes are to be cut in circular openings. Cutting requirements are there up to 7 metres for various applications like pipe end covers, internal fabrication etc. Acetylene gas with Oxygen was used for the cutting process. There was no standard arrangement for cutting of large diameter openings in plates or pipes. Often manual cutting was resorted which results in rough surfaces and imperfect circles. Hence, there is a need to develop a fixture arrangement for smooth and easy cutting operation.

PRIOR ART:
[0004] There are some apparatus/methods known in the prior art showing some efforts on development of the glass cutting. These are discussed in the following sections:
[0005] A state of art GB1325508 uses a piston cylinder arrangement for making a line of cut. The mentioned fixture arrangement can make only straight line cuts and not circular cuts. Hence, it is different from the cutting fixture under consideration.
[0006] Yet another state of art CN203697155U uses a rack arrangement for gas torch movement. The mentioned fixture arrangement can make only straight line cuts and not circular cuts. Hence it is different from the cutting fixture under consideration.
[0007] A state of art CN204430404U uses a cross beam slide arrangement for cutting movement. The mentioned fixture arrangement can make only straight line cuts and not circular cuts. Hence, it is different from the cutting fixture under consideration.
[0008] The contemporary prior art faces several challenges that necessitate the development of the present invention. Firstly, there is a notable absence of a dedicated fixture designed for the precise cutting of large diameter openings in plates and pipes utilizing a gas flame. This absence has often led to operational difficulties and inefficiencies. Moreover, achieving a smooth finish and perfect circularity in the cut openings has proven to be inconsistent in prior methods, resulting in suboptimal outcomes that do not meet the required standards. Additionally, existing solutions tend to be overly complex in their construction, which not only complicates their usage but can also lead to decreased efficiency.
[0009] Therefore, it is quite evident that all of the above disclosures have drawbacks fixture that not only simplifies the cutting process but also ensures superior quality in the cut openings, all while maintaining a straightforward and efficient design for ease of use. These challenges collectively hinder fixture efficiency and reliability. Thus there is a pressing need to achieve the same.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0010] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfy, are listed herein below.
[0011] It is an object of the present subject matter to overcome the aforementioned and other drawbacks existing in the prior art fixture and methods.
[0012] It is s primary object of the present subject matter to propose the improved fixturefor smooth and easy cutting operation in pipes and plates with good finish and circularity.
[0013] It is another significant object of the present subject matter to provide an improved fixture for cutting large diameter openings in plates and pipes using gas flame up to 7 metres.
[0014] It is another significant object of the present subject matter to propose the improved fixturefor cutting large diameter openings in plates and pipes using gas flame, which is simple in construction and works efficiently.
[0015] These and other objects and advantages of the present subject matter will be apparent to a person skilled in the art after consideration of the following detailed description taking into consideration with accompanied drawings in which preferred embodiments of the present subject matter are illustrated.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016] This summary is provided to introduce the concept of the improved fixture for cutting large diameter openings in plates and pipes using a gas flame. The concepts are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.
[0017] The present invention discloses improved fixture for cutting large diameter openings in plates and pipes using a gas flame up to 7 metres.
[0018] In one aspect, the improved fixture comprises of a main rod serving as the primary framework of the apparatus, a torch assembly that connects to the main rod for the purpose of cutting large openings using a gas flame, a main clamp attached to the main rod to secure the torch assembly in place, a nozzle clamp positioned at the opposite end of the main rod to secure the torch assembly, a pointer clamp located near the front end of the main rod, used to secure a pointer, a plurality of locking screws provided on the main clamp, nozzle clamp, and pointer clamp to firmly fasten them to the main rod, a nozzle distance adjusting roller mounted on the main rod near the nozzle clamp to maintain the position of the nozzle cap, an extension rod affixed to the end of the main rod to accommodate large cutting requirements and a top plate clamped in place with the main clamp to provide support for the torch assembly.
[0019] In another aspect, the torch assembly comprises of a torch nozzle securely attached to the improved fixture using the nozzle clamp, a plurality of air tubes that facilitate the mixing of Gas and Oxygen within the nozzle, a plurality of flashback arresters mounted on both the Oxygen tube and Gas tube to prevent backfire, and two control valves provided on the Oxygen tube and Gas tube to regulate the flow of Oxygen and Gas.
[0020] To further understand the characteristics and technical contents of the present subject matter, a description relating thereto will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the drawings are illustrative only but not used to limit the scope of the present subject matter.
[0021] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS
[0022] It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of the present subject matter and are therefore not to be considered for limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments. The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the figures to reference like features and components. Some embodiments of improved fixture or methods or structure in accordance with embodiments of the present subject matter are now described, by way of example, and with reference to the accompanying figures, in which
[0023] Fig. 1 illustrates the front view of an improved fixture with torch assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0024] Fig. 2 illustrates the exploded view of the improved fixture in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0025] The figures depict embodiments of the present subject matter for the purposes of illustration only. A person skilled in the art will easily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION WITH REFERENCE TO THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS
[0026] A few aspects of the present disclosure are explained in detail below with reference to the various figures. Example implementations are described to illustrate the disclosed subject matter, not to limit its scope, which is defined by the claims. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a number of equivalent variations of the various features provided in the description that follows.
[0027] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0028] Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention, which for infringement purposes is recognized as including equivalents to the various elements or limitations specified in the claims. Depending on the context, all references below to the "invention" may in some cases refer to certain specific embodiments only. In other cases, it will be recognized that references to the “invention" will refer to subject matter recited in one or more, but not necessarily all, of the claims.
[0029] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all groups used in the appended claims.
[0030] Various embodiments are further described herein with reference to the accompanying figures. It should be noted that the description and figures relate to exemplary embodiments and should not be construed as a limitation to the subject matter of the present disclosure. It is also to be understood that various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the subject matter of the present disclosure. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the subject matter of the present disclosure, as well as specific examples, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof. Yet further, for the sake of brevity, operation or working principles pertaining to the technical material that is known in the technical field of the present disclosure have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the present disclosure.
[0031] Fig. 1 illustrates the front view of an improved fixture with torch assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The improved fixture (100) is designed for cutting large openings in plates and pipes using a gas flame up to 7 meter. It comprises of a main frame represented by a main rod (4) and a connected torch assembly (17). The torch assembly (17) is secured to the main rod (4) using a main clamp (1) and a nozzle clamp (2) at its farther end. A pointer clamp (6) is provided for securing a pointer. Locking screws (3) firmly fasten these clamps to the main rod. A nozzle distance adjusting roller (14) is mounted on the main rod (4) to maintain the nozzle's position. An extension rod (15) is provided to accommodate large cutting needs, and a top plate (8) is clamped to the main clamp (1) in order to support flashback arresters (9 & 10) of the torch assembly (17).
[0032] Further the torch assembly (17) includes a torch nozzle (5) fixed using the nozzle clamp (2), air tubes for Gas-Oxygen mixing, flashback arresters on the Oxygen tube (7) and Gas tube (13) to prevent backfire, and at least two control valves for regulating Oxygen and Gas flow. The air tubes comprise of an Oxygen tube (7) and a Gas tube (13) that merge at the gas nozzle (5).
[0033] The torch assembly (17) can be attached to the improved fixture using the main clamp (1). Torch nozzle (5) of the torch assembly (17) is fixed to the improved fixture using said nozzle clamp (2) of the improved fixture. The nozzle distance adjusting roller (14) is mounted on main rod (4). The pointer can be adjusted based on the size requirement with extension rod (15) of the opening and can be fixed using the pointer clamp (6). The clamps (1, 2, 6) are provided with locking screws (3) for fixing the same firmly to the main rod (4). Top plate (8) is clamped with the help of the main clamp (1).
[0034] Thus, the main rod (4) acts as the main frame of the improved fixture, wherein main clamp (1) is provided for fixing the torch assembly (17), nozzle clamp (2) for fixing the torch nozzle (5), pointer clamp (6) for fixing the pointer and lock screws (3) for locking the clamps (1, 2, 6). Nozzle distance adjusting roller (14) is fixed in rod (4) near nozzle clamps (2) to maintain nozzle cap. The extension rod (15) is fixed at one end of the main rod (4) for large cutting. The extension rod (15) is accommodated within the main rod (4) and clamped at the clamp (1).
[0035] The main rod (4) acts as the main frame of the improved fixture, in which main clamp (1) is provided for fixing the torch assembly (17), nozzle clamp (2) for fixing the torch nozzle, nozzle distance adjusting roller (14) for maintaining nozzle cap, pointer clamp (6) for fixing the pointer and lock screws (3) for locking the clamps (1, 2, 6), and extension rod (15) and additional extension rod (16) are provided for various size cutting. The Extension rod (15) enables the cutting openings to more than 2 metre diameter which can be attached to the main rod (4) which is a standard accessory. Additional extension rods (16) can be extended for cutting openings up to 7m diameter by attaching to the extension rod (15).
[0036] There are two independent tubes in the torch assembly (17), namely Oxygen tube [7] and Gas tube [13]. Both the tubes [7 & 13] join at the gas nozzle [5] and the Gas- Oxygen mixing takes place inside the nozzle [5]. On the tubes, flash back arresters [9 & 10] are provided to avoid any back fire. Also control valves [11 & 12] are provided for the tubes [7 & 13] so as to regulate the Oxygen and Gas flow respectively. The top plate (8) is provided in order to support flash back arresters [9 & 10] of the torch assembly (17).
[0037] The improved fixture (100) facilitates the precise cutting of substantial openings, with diameters extending up to 7 meters, within sizeable plates.
[0038] Fig. 2 illustrates the exploded view of the improved fixture in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0039] Further the improved fixture constructed from one or more compatible metals, and it further specifies that among these materials, the improved fixture includes Mild steel and various alloys of steel. This flexibility allows for the improved fixture to be tailored to specific requirements, applications, and environmental conditions, taking advantage of the unique properties of these metals. The torch assembly (17) of the is exclusively constructed from metal Brass due to its thermal conductivity, corrosion resistance, or other relevant properties.
[0040] The materials given above are as example without restricting scope of the invention to the same. Thus, other materials readily apparent to a person skilled in the art are understood to be within purview of the invention.

WORKING OF THE INVENTION:

[0041] During circular cutting, the torch assembly (17) fixed on the improved fixture can be placed on the plate or pipe pivoting at the centre. The centre point can be marked/punched and the pointer can be placed in the punch. Cutting can be done by pivoting the entire assembly on the pointer and can be rotated smoothly in perfect circle.
[0042] The improved fixture outperforms manual cutting, delivering exceptionally smooth finishes and heightened productivity through reduced cutting times. Its adaptable design allows effortless adjustments to the cutting diameter, minimizing setup time between different cuts. Furthermore, the improved fixture's efficiency shines as it significantly lowers gas consumption compared to manual methods. A notable departure from previous technology, which only enabled straight cuts, this invention empowers users to effortlessly perform precise circular cuts, expanding its versatility across various applications.
ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

[0043] The proposed improved fixture has the following advantages over the contemporary prior arts:
• Enhanced Efficiency: The improved fixture expedites the cutting of circular plates and pipe openings, offering easier maneuverability, which translates to reduced cutting time and significant fuel savings.
• Superior Precision: Unlike manual cutting methods that often require additional grinding for a smooth finish, this improved fixture enables seamless circular cutting, leading to improved productivity.
• Versatile Adjustability: The improved fixture's adaptability allows for adjustments to accommodate varying cut diameters, eliminating the need for separate improved fixture arrangements.
• Welding Nozzle Maintenance: The nozzle distance adjusting roller plays a vital role in maintaining the welding nozzle gap, ensuring precise and consistent welding.
• Facilitated Articulation: Additionally, the roller simplifies the assembly's articulation, further enhancing operational ease.
• Extended Cutting Reach: The extension rod extends the cutting diameter up to 7-meter frame length, expanding the improved fixture's capabilities.

APPLICATION
[0044] The improved fixture is being successfully used in house for various cutting applications like Large size flange cutting for Hydro test facility, pipe end cover cutting, drum cover cutting, other structural member cutting etc.

TEST RESULT INDICATING BETTER PERFORMANCE OF THE INVENTION OVER PRIOR ART:

[0045] The following are the test results of the present invention over the prior arts:

• The finish is smooth and perfect compared to manual cutting.
• Productivity is more compared to manual cutting, i.e., cutting time is less.
• The diameter of cutting can be easily varied, so the improved fixture setting time is less between two different diameter cuts.
• Gas consumption is reduced compare to manual cutting due to faster and easy movement.
• Existing arrangements (prior art) are available only for straight cutting with rack arrangement. Circular cuts cannot be made using prior technology, whereas the same can be achieved by the present invention.

REFERENCE NUMERALS

1 Main Clamp
2 Nozzle Clamp
3 Lock Screw
4 Main Rod
5 Nozzle
6 Pointer Clamp
7 Oxygen Tube
8 Top Plate
9 Oxygen Flash Back Arrester
10 Acetylene Flash Back Arrester
11 Oxygen Control Valve
12 Acetylene Control Valve
13 Acetylene Tube
14 Nozzle Distance Adjusting Roller
15 Extension Rod
16 Additional Extension Rod

[0046] The above description does not provide specific details of the manufacture or design of the various components. Those of skill in the art are familiar with such details, and unless departures from those techniques are set out, techniques, known, related art or later developed designs and materials should be employed. Those in the art are capable of choosing suitable manufacturing and design details.
[0047] Further, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. It will be appreciated that several of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be combined into other fixture or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements therein may subsequently be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as encompassed by the following claims.
[0048] The claims, as originally presented and as they may be amended, encompass variations, alternatives, modifications, improvements, equivalents, and substantial equivalents of the embodiments and teachings disclosed herein, including those that are presently unforeseen or unappreciated, and that, for example, may arise from applicants/patentees and others.
[0049] It will be appreciated that variants of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be combined into many other different fixture or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.
, Claims:We Claim:
1. An improved fixture for cutting large diameter openings in plates and pipes using gas flame comprising of an improved fixture mounted with a torch assembly, wherein the improved fixture includes a
main rod (4) with main clamp (1) at intermediate point, nozzle clamp (2) at the farther end and pointer clamp (6) near anterior end of the rod; the torch assembly comprises of
Oxygen tube (7) and Gas tube (13) joined at gas nozzle (5) fixed to the improved fixture by said nozzle clamp (2), in which the Gas- Oxygen mixing takes place inside the nozzle (5);
a nozzle distance adjusting roller (14) mounted on the main rod (4) adjacent to the nozzle clamp (2) to maintain the position of the nozzle cap; and
an extension rod (15) affixed to the end of the main rod (4) so as to accommodate large cutting requirements, in which the extension rod (15) is accommodated within the main rod (4) and clamped at the clamp (1).
2. The improved fixture for cutting large diameter openings in plates and pipes using gas flame as claimed in claim 1, wherein an additional extension rod (16) extends the cutting diameter up to 7-meter frame length.

3. The improved fixture for cutting large diameter openings in plates and pipes using gas flame as claimed in claim 1, wherein the flash back arresters [9 & 10] are provided on the tubes so as to avoid any back fire.

4. The improved fixture for cutting large diameter openings in plates and pipes using gas flame as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the control valves [11 & 12] are provided for the tubes [7 & 13] so as to regulate the Oxygen and Gas flow respectively.

5. The improved fixture for cutting large diameter openings in plates and pipes using gas flame as claimed in claims 1-3, wherein a top plate (8) is clamped by the main clamp (1) and is provided in order to support the flash back arresters [9 & 10] of the torch assembly.

6. The improved fixture for cutting large diameter openings in plates and pipes using gas flame as claimed in claims 1-4, wherein the clamps (1,2,6) are provided with locking screws (3) for fixing the same to the main rod (4).

7. The improved fixture for cutting large diameter openings in plates and pipes using gas flame as claimed in claims 1-5, wherein the main rod (4) acts as the main frame of the improved fixture, in which the main clamp (1) is provided for fixing the torch assembly, nozzle clamp (2) for fixing the torch nozzle, pointer clamp (6) for fixing the pointer and lock screws (3) for locking the clamps (1,2,6).

8. The improved fixture for cutting large diameter openings in plates and pipes using gas flame as claimed in claims 1-6, wherein the Improved fixture is made of material including Mild steel and the Torch assembly is made of material including Brass.