A convenient folding handle structure for intelligent equipment used in energy storage tank testing

Abstract

This utility model discloses a convenient folding handle structure for an intelligent equipment used in energy storage tank testing, comprising: a fixed base, a folding drive mechanism, a handle rod, a handle glove, a telescopic mechanism, and a locking mechanism. The fixed base is used to connect with the testing equipment; the folding drive mechanism is disposed on the fixed base; the handle rod is connected to the folding drive mechanism, and the folding drive mechanism enables rotational folding relative to the fixed base; the handle glove has an axially extending mounting cavity inside, and the handle rod is slidably disposed within the mounting cavity; and the end of the handle rod is provided with a limiting mechanism to prevent the handle glove from slipping off; the telescopic mechanism is disposed within the mounting cavity to provide an outward extension force for the handle glove; and the locking mechanism is used to lock or unlock the handle glove on the handle rod. Through an innovative "pin rotation + spring push" tool-free folding design, the time for a single folding / unfolding operation is shortened, improving the efficiency of tank testing operations.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the technical field of auxiliary components for petroleum storage and transportation equipment, specifically to a convenient folding handle structure for an intelligent device used for testing energy storage tanks. Background Technology

[0002] During regular inspections, oil storage tanks require specialized intelligent inspection equipment to examine the inner walls, welds, and bottom deposits. Existing inspection equipment handles suffer from the following two core problems: Fixed and non-foldable type: The handle is rigidly fixed to the equipment. When moving in the narrow maintenance passage of the oil storage tank, it is easy to collide with the tank wall or get caught on residual oil, which not only obstructs passage but may also cause the equipment to become unbalanced and fall. Foldable tools: Some foldable handles require the use of tools such as screwdrivers to remove the fixing screws in order to fold them. Additional tools need to be carried during on-site testing, the operation steps are cumbersome, and the screws are easily lost or stripped in oily environments, affecting testing efficiency.

[0003] For example, the handle of the testing equipment disclosed in CN202420567890.1 is foldable but requires the removal of screws and relies on tools; the metal handle disclosed in CN202310876543.2 uses spring pin positioning and requires special tools to unlock when folding. In oily environments, the jamming rate is as high as 30%, and neither is suitable for high-efficiency testing scenarios of oil storage tanks. Utility Model Content

[0004] In view of this, the purpose of this utility model is to provide a convenient folding handle structure for an intelligent device for testing energy storage tanks, aiming to overcome at least one related technical problem existing in the background art.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: This utility model provides a convenient folding handle structure for an intelligent device used for testing energy storage tanks, comprising: a fixed base, a folding drive mechanism, a handle rod, a handle glove, a telescopic mechanism, and a locking mechanism. The fixed base is used to connect with the testing device; the folding drive mechanism is disposed on the fixed base; the handle rod is connected to the folding drive mechanism, and the folding drive mechanism enables rotational folding relative to the fixed base; the handle glove has an axially extending mounting cavity inside, and the handle rod is slidably disposed in the mounting cavity; and the end of the handle rod is provided with a limiting mechanism to prevent the handle glove from falling off; the telescopic mechanism is disposed in the mounting cavity to provide an outward extension force for the handle glove; and the locking mechanism is used to lock or unlock the handle glove on the handle rod.

[0006] This invention modularizes the handle structure into a fixed base, a folding drive mechanism, a handle bar, a telescopic mechanism, and a locking mechanism. The fixed base ensures reliable connection with the testing equipment; the folding drive mechanism allows the handle bar to rotate and fold, reducing the overall size; the telescopic mechanism provides a comfortable grip and automatic reset via a spring-driven handle glove. This integrated design solves the problems of existing handles being fixed and not foldable or requiring tools for disassembly, improving testing efficiency and safety. It enables tool-free, rapid folding and unfolding of the handle in narrow tank passages and ensures stable operation in oily environments. To provide a simple and reliable rotational folding mechanism and avoid the use of complex tools, in one alternative embodiment, the folding drive mechanism includes a clearance space disposed on the fixed base and a pin passing through the clearance space and connecting to the handle. This design allows the handle to rotate easily around the pin, achieving a folding angle of 0-180°, while also being robust and resistant to oil and corrosion.

[0007] The handlebar, with a pin as its pivot, connects to the mounting base via a clearance space. When the user applies force, the handlebar can rotate around the pin, allowing it to fold or unfold. The clearance space provides ample support to ensure smooth rotation.

[0008] It should be noted that the pin can be replaced with a bolt or quick-release pin; the clearance space can be changed to a circular hole or other shaped slot, as long as rotation is allowed.

[0009] In order to provide a reliable and durable telescopic mechanism, in one optional embodiment, the telescopic mechanism is a return spring, which is sleeved on the handle bar, and the glove and the handle bar are provided with limiting devices at both ends, so that when the glove is in the locked state, the return spring is in the compressed state.

[0010] The return spring has limiting devices at both ends to prevent it from coming off between the handle glove and the handle rod. Of course, the spring may not have limiting devices at both ends, or it may be connected to the handle rod and handle glove respectively, as long as it prevents the return spring from coming off between the handle glove and the handle rod.

[0011] The limiting structure can be a retaining ring, a protrusion, or a groove, fixed to the end of the handle bar or the inner wall of the handle glove, limiting the range of motion of the spring so that the spring is in a compressed state when the handle glove is in the locked state.

[0012] As an example, to prevent the return spring from slipping out or shifting after repeated use and to ensure the long-term reliability of the telescopic mechanism, both ends of the return spring can be connected to the handle and the handle sleeve. This solves the problem of the spring easily getting lost or stuck, reducing the failure rate.

[0013] To ensure that the limiting plate can respond to the locking or unlocking state in a timely manner, in an optional embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a locking step disposed at the end of the handle glove and a limiting plate disposed at the end of the handle lever. A notch is provided on one side of the locking step. When the limiting plate rotates relative to the locking step, the handle glove is locked. When the limiting plate disengages from the locking step through the notch, the handle glove is unlocked.

[0014] The locking step of the handle glove reliably engages or disengages, setting the limit plate to slide with the handle lever. This design enables the limit plate to automatically lock and unlock, improving ease of operation.

[0015] When the glove is rotated until the notch aligns with the limiting plate, the limiting plate releases its restriction on the locking step, thus releasing the glove from its lock. The glove is then ejected by the return spring.

[0016] In one alternative embodiment, the locking mechanism further includes a fixing member, through which the limiting plate is mounted to the handle.

[0017] Optionally, the fastener can be a fixing bolt, rivet, or pin, as long as the limit plate is allowed to move.

[0018] To adapt to the corrosive environment of oil and moisture inside oil storage tanks and extend the service life of the handle structure, in one optional embodiment, the mounting base, handle sleeve, and handle bar are made of stainless steel with an anti-corrosion coating. Using stainless steel for the main components and applying anti-corrosion treatment solves the problem of easy corrosion of metal parts and ensures long-term reliability.

[0019] For example, a sandblasting layer can be applied to its surface to enhance its corrosion resistance. Stainless steel has a certain degree of corrosion resistance, and surface treatments such as sandblasting further enhance its corrosion resistance, making the parts less prone to rusting in oily environments.

[0020] Specifically, stainless steel can be 316L stainless steel; anti-corrosion treatment can be electroplating, spraying, or passivation.

[0021] To provide a secure grip in oily environments, prevent equipment slippage, and improve operating comfort, in one alternative embodiment, the outer end of the glove is covered with a rubber insulating layer with an anti-slip texture on its surface. This solves the problem of slippage and enhances safety.

[0022] The rubber insulation layer increases friction, and the anti-slip texture further improves grip, allowing for stable operation even when the user's hands are oily.

[0023] Specifically, the rubber insulation layer can be nitrile rubber or other oil-resistant rubber; the anti-slip texture can be diamond-shaped, wavy, or other patterns.

[0024] In one alternative embodiment, the limiting mechanism is a limiting platform. The limiting platform can serve as a limiting device to prevent the glove from slipping off the handle, or it can serve as a limiting device for the spring.

[0025] To maximize the folding effect and allow the handle to pass through narrow tank manholes, in one alternative embodiment, the handle lever has a rotation angle range of 0-180°. For example, the overall length of the folded handle structure is reduced to less than 40% of its original length. This significant reduction in length after folding solves the problem of the handle colliding or snagging in the passageway, improving maneuverability.

[0026] To provide a standardized interface and facilitate rapid installation with various testing devices, one optional embodiment also includes a flange mounted on the mounting base for connection to the testing equipment. This solves the problem of inconvenient handle connection to the equipment and improves versatility. The flange is bolted to the testing equipment, ensuring a secure fixation while allowing for quick disassembly or replacement.

[0027] The beneficial effects that the convenient folding handle structure of the intelligent equipment for energy storage tank testing disclosed in this application may bring include, but are not limited to: 1. Significantly improved operational efficiency Through the innovative "pin rotation + spring push" toolless folding design, the time for a single folding / unfolding operation is reduced from more than 3 minutes in the traditional structure to less than 10 seconds, and the preparation time before inspection is reduced by about 80%, which greatly improves the overall efficiency of tank inspection operations.

[0028] 2. Excellent spatial adaptability After folding, the overall length is reduced to less than 40% of the original length, which can smoothly pass through the manhole of a standard storage tank with a diameter of ≥600mm, avoiding the collision and snagging problems of traditional fixed handles in narrow passages, and significantly improving the passage passability.

[0029] 3. Strong environmental adaptability The entire structure is made of 316L stainless steel and has been sandblasted for corrosion protection. The key elastic components are made of oil-resistant silicon bronze, which enables the handle to maintain long-term reliable operation in harsh environments such as oil and moisture, increasing the overall service life to more than 3 years and reducing the failure rate by 85%.

[0030] 4. High safety in use In the unfolded state, the continuous preload of the return spring, combined with the anti-slip texture of the nitrile rubber, maintains sufficient grip friction even in oily environments, effectively preventing the equipment from slipping.

[0031] 5. Low maintenance costs The integrated structural design reduces the number of vulnerable parts, and the spring limiting structure effectively prevents the return spring from being lost or slipping out, thus reducing the frequency and cost of daily maintenance.

[0032] 6. Ergonomic optimization The nitrile rubber insulation layer on the outer end of the glove not only provides excellent insulation, but its diamond-patterned anti-slip texture and ergonomic grip curve significantly improve comfort during long-term operation and reduce operator fatigue. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the present invention (folded state).

[0034] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the present invention (in unfolded state).

[0035] Reference numerals: 1-fixed base, 2-pin, 3-spring, 4-glove, 5-handle lever, 6-limiting plate, 7-fixing component, 8-locking step, 9-notch. Detailed Implementation

[0036] Various exemplary embodiments, features, and aspects of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals in the drawings denote elements that have the same or similar functions. Although various aspects of the embodiments are shown in the drawings, they are not necessarily drawn to scale unless specifically indicated otherwise.

[0037] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0038] like Figure 1-2As shown, a convenient folding handle structure for an intelligent device used for testing energy storage tanks includes: a fixed base 1, a folding drive mechanism, a handle rod 5, a handle glove 4, a telescopic mechanism, and a locking mechanism. The fixed base 1 is used to connect with the testing device; the folding drive mechanism is disposed on the fixed base 1; the handle rod 5 is connected to the folding drive mechanism, and the folding drive mechanism enables rotational folding relative to the fixed base 1; the handle glove 4 has a through mounting cavity along the axial direction, and the handle rod 5 is slidably disposed in the mounting cavity; and the end of the handle rod 5 is provided with a limiting mechanism to prevent the handle glove 4 from falling out; the telescopic mechanism is disposed in the mounting cavity and is used to provide an outward extension force for the handle glove 4; the locking mechanism is used to lock or unlock the handle glove 4 on the handle rod 5.

[0039] This utility model modularizes the handle structure into a fixed base 1, a folding drive mechanism, a handle bar 5, a telescopic mechanism, and a locking mechanism. The fixed base 1 ensures reliable connection to the testing equipment; the folding drive mechanism allows the handle bar 5 to rotate and fold, reducing the overall size; the telescopic mechanism, driven by a spring 3, provides a comfortable grip and automatic reset of the handle glove 4. This integrated design solves the problems of existing handles being fixed and not foldable or requiring tools for disassembly, improving testing efficiency and safety. It enables tool-free, rapid folding and unfolding of the handle in narrow tank passages and ensures stable operation in oily environments. To provide a simple and reliable rotational folding mechanism and avoid the use of complex tools, in one alternative embodiment, the folding drive mechanism includes a clearance space disposed on the fixed base 1 and a pin 2 passing through the clearance space and engaging with the handle 5. This design allows the handle 5 to easily rotate around the pin 2, achieving a folding angle of 0-180°, while also being robust and resistant to oil and corrosion.

[0040] Using pin 2 as a pivot, the handle 5 is connected to the clearance space of the fixed base 1 via pin 2. When the user applies force, the handle 5 can rotate around pin 2 to achieve folding or unfolding. The clearance space provides sufficient support space to ensure smooth rotation.

[0041] It should be noted that pin 2 can be replaced with a bolt or quick-release pin; the clearance space can be a U-shaped groove or other shaped slot, as long as rotation is allowed.

[0042] In order to provide a reliable and durable telescopic mechanism, in an optional embodiment, the telescopic mechanism is a return spring 3, which is sleeved on the handle bar 5, and the handle 4 and the two ends of the handle bar 5 are provided with limiting devices, so that when the handle 4 is in the locked state, the return spring 3 is in the compressed state.

[0043] The return spring 3 has limiting devices at both ends to prevent it from coming off between the handle glove 4 and the handle rod 5. Of course, the spring 3 may not have limiting devices at both ends, or it may be connected to the handle rod 5 and the handle glove 4 respectively, as long as it can prevent the return spring 3 from coming off between the handle glove 4 and the handle rod 5.

[0044] The limiting structure can be a retaining ring, a protrusion, or a groove, fixed to the end of the handlebar 5 or the inner wall of the handle glove 4, limiting the range of motion of the spring 3, so that the spring 3 is in a compressed state when the handle glove 4 is in the locked state.

[0045] As an example, to prevent the return spring 3 from slipping out or shifting after repeated use and to ensure the long-term reliability of the telescopic mechanism, both ends of the return spring 3 can be connected to the handle lever 5 and the handle sleeve 4. This solves the problem of the spring 3 being easily lost or stuck, and reduces the failure rate.

[0046] To ensure that the limiting plate 6 can respond to the locking or unlocking state in a timely manner, in an optional embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a locking step 8 disposed at the end of the handle 4 and a limiting plate 6 disposed at the end of the handle 5. A notch 9 is provided on one side of the locking step 8. When the limiting plate 6 slides onto the locking step 8, the handle 4 is locked. When the limiting plate 6 disengages from the locking step 8 through the notch 9, the handle 4 is unlocked.

[0047] When the glove 4 is rotated until the notch 9 is aligned with the limiting plate 6, the limiting plate 6 releases the restriction on the locking step 8, thus releasing the lock on the glove 4. The glove 4 is then ejected by the return spring 3.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the bottom of the limiting plate 6 is provided with a 0.3mm thick rubber pad to enhance the fit with the locking step 8 of the handle glove 4, so that it remains locked even in a vibration environment and the mis-locking rate is reduced.

[0049] In one alternative embodiment, the locking mechanism further includes a fixing member 7, through which the limiting plate 6 is mounted on the handle 5.

[0050] Optionally, fastener 7 can be replaced with a rivet or pin, as long as the limit plate 6 is allowed to move.

[0051] To adapt to the corrosive environment of oil and moisture inside oil storage tanks and extend the service life of the handle structure, in one optional embodiment, the fixing base 1, handle sleeve 4, and handle rod 5 are made of stainless steel with an anti-corrosion layer on the surface. Setting the main components to stainless steel and applying anti-corrosion treatment solves the problem of easy corrosion of metal parts and ensures long-term reliability.

[0052] For example, a sandblasting layer can be applied to its surface to enhance its corrosion resistance. Stainless steel has a certain degree of corrosion resistance, and surface treatments such as sandblasting further enhance its corrosion resistance, making the parts less prone to rusting in oily environments.

[0053] Specifically, stainless steel can be 316L stainless steel; anti-corrosion treatment can be electroplating, spraying, or passivation.

[0054] To provide a secure grip in oily environments, prevent equipment slippage, and improve operating comfort, in one optional embodiment, the outer end of the handle glove 4 is covered with a rubber insulating layer, the surface of which is provided with anti-slip texture. This solves the problem of slippage and enhances safety.

[0055] The rubber insulation layer increases friction, and the anti-slip texture further improves grip, allowing for stable operation even when the user's hands are oily.

[0056] Specifically, the rubber insulation layer can be nitrile rubber or other oil-resistant rubber; the anti-slip texture can be diamond-shaped, wavy, or other patterns.

[0057] In one alternative embodiment, the limiting mechanism is a limiting platform. The limiting platform can serve as a limiting device to prevent the glove 4 from slipping off the handle bar 5, or it can serve as a limiting device for the spring 3.

[0058] To maximize the folding effect and allow the handle to pass through narrow tank manholes, in one alternative embodiment, the handle lever 5 has a rotation angle range of 0-180°. For example, the overall length of the handle structure is reduced to less than 40% of its original length after folding. This significant reduction in length after folding solves the problem of the handle colliding or snagging in the passageway, improving maneuverability.

[0059] To provide a standardized interface and facilitate rapid installation with various testing devices, an optional embodiment also includes a flange mounted on the mounting base 1 for connection to the testing equipment. This solves the problem of inconvenient handle connection to the equipment and improves versatility. The flange is bolted to the testing equipment, ensuring a secure fixation while allowing for quick disassembly or replacement.

[0060] Usage process: Before the equipment enters the storage tank (folding operation): Hold the glove 4 with your hand and compress the return spring 3 towards the handle bar 5 until the locking step 8 of the glove 4 disengages from the limit plate 6. Rotate the handle glove 4 by 15°-30° to align the notch 9 with the limit plate 6, then release the handle glove 4. Since the return spring 3 is continuously compressed during this process, the handle glove 4 is ejected under the elastic force of the return spring 3, exposing the neck of the fixed seat 1. Rotate the handle lever 5 downward by 180° around the pin 2 to make the handle fit snugly against the main body of the equipment. Folding is completed without any tools, allowing the handle glove 4 and the equipment to enter the storage tank together.

[0061] During the detection operation (expand operation): With the hand grip 4 around the pin 2, rotate the handle 5 upwards by 180° until it is horizontal with the fixed base 1; Hold the handle glove 4 with your hand and continuously compress the return spring 3 towards the handle bar 5 until the notch 9 of the handle glove 4 passes through the limiting plate 6; rotate the handle glove 4 in the opposite direction by 15°-30° so that the notch 9 is aligned with the limiting plate 6 and the locking step 8 is aligned with the limiting plate 6; release the handle glove 4, and the locking is completed under the elastic force of the return spring 3; test the rubber insulation layer of the handle glove 4, and the anti-slip texture and high friction coefficient ensure stable grip in oily environments.

[0062] It should be noted that, in the preferred embodiment, the return spring 3 is always in a compressed state, regardless of whether it is unfolding or folding, thus ensuring that there is enough elastic force to pop the glove 4 out.

[0063] After the test is completed (return operation): The first step of the repeated folding operation allows the equipment to be carried out of the storage tank without the need for any tools.

[0064] In some embodiments, a fluorescent marking strip, for example 5 mm wide and 1 mm thick, is added to the outer end of the glove 4 to improve the visibility of the handle in the low light environment of the storage tank, making it easier to quickly locate and operate.

[0065] The various embodiments of this application have been described above. These descriptions are exemplary and not exhaustive, nor are they limited to the disclosed embodiments. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments.

Claims

1. A convenient folding handle structure for an intelligent device used for testing energy storage tanks, characterized in that, include: Mounting base (1), used for connecting to the testing equipment; A folding drive mechanism is mounted on the fixed base (1); The handle (5) is connected to the folding drive mechanism, and the folding drive mechanism enables rotational folding relative to the fixed base (1); The glove (4) has an axially extending mounting cavity inside, and the handle (5) is slidably disposed in the mounting cavity; and the end of the handle (5) is provided with a limiting mechanism to prevent the glove (4) from coming off. A telescopic mechanism is provided in the mounting cavity to provide an outward extension force for the handle glove (4); A locking mechanism is provided for locking or unlocking the glove (4) onto the handle bar (5).

2. The convenient folding handle structure for intelligent equipment used in energy storage tank testing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The folding drive mechanism includes a clearance space disposed on the fixed base (1) and a pin (2) passing through the clearance space and the handle (5).

3. The convenient folding handle structure for intelligent equipment used in energy storage tank testing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The telescopic mechanism is a return spring (3), which is sleeved on the handle (5). The glove (4) and the handle (5) are provided with limiting devices at both ends, so that when the glove (4) is in the locked state, the return spring (3) is in the compressed state.

4. The convenient folding handle structure for intelligent equipment used in energy storage tank testing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The locking mechanism includes a locking step (8) disposed at the end of the handle glove (4) and a limiting plate (6) disposed at the end of the handle bar (5). A notch (9) is provided on one side of the locking step (8). When the limiting plate (6) rotates relative to the locking step (8), the handle glove (4) is locked. When the limiting plate (6) disengages from the locking step (8) through the notch (9), the handle glove (4) is unlocked.

5. The convenient folding handle structure for intelligent equipment used in energy storage tank testing according to claim 4, characterized in that: The locking mechanism also includes a fixing member (7), and the limiting plate (6) is mounted on the handle (5) through the fixing member (7).

6. The convenient folding handle structure of the intelligent equipment for energy storage tank testing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The fixed base (1), the glove (4) and the handle (5) are made of stainless steel and have an anti-corrosion layer on the surface.

7. The convenient folding handle structure of the intelligent equipment for energy storage tank testing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The outer end of the glove (4) is covered with a rubber insulating layer, and the surface of the rubber insulating layer is provided with anti-slip texture.

8. The convenient folding handle structure of the intelligent equipment for energy storage tank testing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The limiting mechanism is a limiting platform.

9. The convenient folding handle structure for intelligent equipment used in energy storage tank testing according to claim 1, characterized in that: The rotation angle range of the handle (5) is 0-180°.

10. The convenient folding handle structure of the intelligent equipment for energy storage tank testing according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a flange disposed on the fixed base (1) for connecting to the testing equipment.

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