Circuit Breaker Lockout Device Parallel Padlock Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing circuit breaker lockout devices cannot accommodate individual padlocks on adjacent circuit breakers due to space constraints, requiring a single padlock for multiple devices, which necessitates simultaneous unlocking.
Innovation Solution
A circuit breaker lockout device with a body featuring parallel padlock holes and a toggle screw that secures the device to the circuit breaker, allowing for individual locking of adjacent circuit breakers with padlocks positioned either perpendicular or parallel to the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If padlocks are positioned perpendicular to the circuit breaker lockout device, then the lockout device can be securely locked, but adjacent circuit breakers cannot receive individual lockout devices due to space constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The padlock hole is reoriented from a perpendicular position to a parallel position relative to the circuit breaker face. This dimensional change in padlock orientation allows padlocks to be positioned side-by-side on adjacent circuit breakers, enabling individual locking of each breaker while maintaining secure locking functionality.
2Ease of operation
If a single padlock is used with multiple circuit breaker lockout devices, then space constraints are addressed, but all circuit breakers must be unlocked simultaneously which reduces safety
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is segmented to allow individual padlocks on each circuit breaker lockout device. By positioning padlock holes parallel to the circuit breaker face, each breaker can have its own independent padlock, allowing selective unlocking of individual breakers during maintenance operations, thereby improving safety while efficiently utilizing space.
Data Source
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AI summary
A circuit breaker lockout device is disclosed. The circuit breaker lockout device includes a body having a top, a bottom, a front, a back and sides. The top of the body includes a padlock hole defined by a channel that is parallel to the body. The body also includes a toggle screw that extends through the body to secure the lockout device to a circuit breaker.