Closure Element Light Source Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing closure elements for vessels with apertures face limitations in illumination, as external light sources obstruct views and pose safety risks, while internal placement is often not optimal due to structural and regulatory constraints, particularly in applications like spray drying and fluid bed apparatuses.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating light sources within a predefined, confined zone in the central cover unit of the closure element, which is integrated and does not protrude, allowing for balanced illumination and improved sanitation, cleanability, and surveillance without compromising the structural integrity or safety.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If light sources are positioned externally of the closure element, then illumination of vessel interior is achieved, but visibility is impeded by the light source itself blocking the view

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveillumination of vessel interiorVSAvoidvisibility into vessel interior

Core Design Contradiction:

Illumination intensityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The light source is extracted from the external position and moved inside the closure element structure, specifically into a predefined zone in the central cover unit. This extraction resolves the contradiction by removing the light source from the viewing path while maintaining its illumination function within the confined internal space.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The light source is nested within the closure element structure, specifically housed in a predefined zone within the central cover unit. This nesting allows the light source to be contained within the overall structure without protruding, enabling illumination while preserving unobstructed viewing through the transparent section.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Illumination intensity

If light sources are placed in the periphery of the closure element, then illumination is provided, but the position is not always possible or optimal for particular fields of application

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveilluminationVSAvoidapplicability to different fields

Core Design Contradiction:

Illumination intensityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The predefined zone in the central cover unit serves as a universal mounting location for light sources that can accommodate various application requirements. This standardized internal position provides illumination functionality while maintaining adaptability to different field applications, as the confined zone design works across various closure element configurations and vessel types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of manufacture

If light sources are not confined within the central cover unit, then installation flexibility is maintained, but parts of or the whole light source may fall into the vessel in case of defect

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation flexibilityVSAvoidrisk of light source falling into vessel

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The light source is housed in a predefined zone within the central cover unit that acts as a protective containment structure. This prior cushioning design prevents the light source from falling into the vessel in case of defect or failure, while the integrated design maintains installation flexibility and structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

4Illumination intensity

If closure element includes transparent section with external light source, then illumination is provided, but closure element must be opened to ensure safety

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveilluminationVSAvoidsafety verification

Core Design Contradiction:

Illumination intensityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The light source is extracted from external positioning and relocated to an internal predefined zone within the central cover unit. This extraction eliminates the safety concern requiring opening of the closure element, as the light source is now contained within the sealed structure and cannot fall into the vessel, while still providing necessary illumination through the transparent section.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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

This solution provides effective illumination for vessel interiors, reduces setup and inspection time, and minimizes downtime in production, while ensuring safety and compliance with regulations, such as hygiene and explosion risk standards.

Implementation Method 1

the closure element is provided with at least one light source

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight emission: Light Emitting Diode

Data Source

PatentUS8903235B2Closure element comprising a light source

Publication Date: 2014.12.02 GEA PROCESS ENG

AI summary

The closure element (1) is adapted to be installed in a vessel wall provided with an aperture and has a peripheral flange (2) and a central cover unit (3). The closure element (1) is provided with at least one light source within a predefined zone (35) located in the central cover unit (3) and the light source is confined within the central cover unit.