Patent ID: 7128569
Filing Date: 2006-10-31
Classification: F23Q

Abstract:
1. A safety stopper for use with a conventional welding torch striker, the striker having a substantially U-shaped spring handle, the spring handle defining a first arm with a first push-tab and a second arm with a second push-tab, the arms formed as one piece with a bend at a proximal end of the striker, a strike plate mounted to a distal end of the first arm, and a flint mounted to a distal end of the second arm, the spring handle and the strike plate defining an open area, the safety stopper comprising: a sleeve made of a flexible, non-flammable, heat-resistant material; wherein the sleeve is shaped to enclose a central portion of both arms, while providing space for relative movement within the sleeve of the first push-tab with respect to the second push-tab; wherein the sleeve is sized for retention on the arms by spring force exerted outward on the sleeve by the arms; and wherein the sleeve is shaped to cover a substantial portion of the open area, and to expose the strike plate and the flint; such that the safety stopper, when attached to the striker, defines a clear path for movement of the striker plate with respect to the flint; such that the safety stopper allows manual operation of the striker while the safety stopper is attached to the striker; and such that the safety stopper reduces the chances of the operator being thrown off balance by the striker catching on an external object when the striker, with the safety stopper attached, is carried hands-free attached to an operator's belt.