Rotatable Carousel LP Gas Dispenser Safety Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LP gas tank dispensers are not compact enough, requiring significant space for horizontal and vertical rows of tanks, and pose safety concerns due to the need for external location and potential hazards from conveyors or carousels.
Innovation Solution
A compact self-serve kiosk with a rotatable carousel that prevents rotation when the compartment door is open, using a locking mechanism with a pneumatic gas cylinder and spring-loaded arm to ensure safety and minimize interaction with external environments, while maximizing the number of tanks stored.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If tanks are arranged in horizontal and vertical rows, then the number of tanks stored is increased, but the space required for the cabinet increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional horizontal/vertical row arrangement to a three-dimensional rotatable carousel structure with multiple levels. The carousel rotates about a vertical axis, allowing tanks to be accessed from the front while maximizing vertical space utilization. This dimensional change enables storing more tanks (6-8 per level × multiple levels) within a compact footprint, resolving the contradiction between storage quantity and cabinet area.
2Area of stationary object
If a conveyor or rotatable carousel is used, then the cabinet becomes more compact, but safety hazards increase due to moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a safety interlock system that prevents the carousel from rotating when the compartment door is open. A sensor detects door opening and immediately locks the carousel rotation mechanism, eliminating the risk of consumer injury from moving parts during tank access. This preliminary protective action addresses the safety hazard before it can occur, allowing the use of a compact rotating carousel without compromising consumer safety.
3Ease of operation
If the carousel is located close to the external environment, then access is easier, but exposure to dirt or ice increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the carousel and locking mechanism at the top of the dispenser, away from external environmental contaminants like dirt and ice. The locking mechanism consists of an arm and spring extended gas cylinder mounted at the top of the dispenser, serving as an intermediary that minimizes direct exposure to harsh external conditions while still effectively controlling carousel rotation. This spatial arrangement protects the mechanical components from environmental damage.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a compact and safe LP gas tank dispenser that minimizes space requirements and reduces maintenance frequency while ensuring consumer safety by preventing carousel rotation during tank access and reducing exposure to dirt or ice.
Implementation Method 1
The lock is located in such a position to minimize interaction with the external environment such as dirt or ice. The lock prevents rotation of the inside carousel anytime a door is open using a locking mechanism consisting of an arm and a spring extended gas cylinder mounted at the top of the dispenser.
Implementation Method 2
The lock prevents rotation of the inside carousel anytime a door is open using a locking mechanism consisting of an arm and a spring extended gas cylinder mounted at the top of the dispenser.
Data Source
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AI summary
A dispenser of containers. A carousel 53 is rotatably mounted to a main frame 42 about a vertical axis of rotation and has a plurality of container compartments 62 arranged around the axis and along the length of the axis. A driver 90 mounted to the main frame 42 rotates the carousel 53 around the axis in a single direction and a lock 210 limits rotation of the carousel 53 in any direction when engaged.