Welding torch with integral control

Abstract

The invention is a welding parameter control device for a welding torch operable by the welders thumb and/or index finger. A forward-located rotary knob or belt is positioned where the torch is of relatively small diameter and comfortable for the welder to hold in the hand. This is coupled to a potentiometer located toward the rear portion of the torch. If a rotary potentiometer is used, the torch diameter here can be increased without discomfort to the welder. By placing the potentiometer in this position it can be much larger and more rugged than would be possible if located at the position of the control knob. If a linear potentiometer is used, the body may be maintained very slim over its entire length. Weld disturbance due to torch movement during current adjustment is virtually eliminated by use of the fingertip operated rotary control.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.