Dual Collar Tank Cap Locking Device for Theft Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current locking tank cap solutions, such as welding-based designs, factory-installed caps, and aftermarket caps, face issues like requiring special precautions for installation, limited lock customization, and potential security vulnerabilities due to integral locks that are not easily replaceable.
Innovation Solution
A dual collar tank cap locking device that uses two collars with removable attachment means, allowing for easy installation and lock replacement, utilizing a readily available lock that can be easily keyed alike or replaced, and does not require welding, ensuring secure and customizable locking without compromising the existing tank cap.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If welding-based locking flange designs are used, then security and structural strength are improved, but installation complexity and safety precautions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is divided into separate components: a collar that attaches to the fill port nipple without welding, and a lockable blocking device that secures the collar. This segmentation eliminates the need for welding while maintaining security through mechanical attachment methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The collar acts as an intermediary component between the fill port nipple and the lockable blocking device. It provides a mechanical interface that can be securely attached without welding, thereby reducing installation complexity while maintaining the security function.
2Reliability
If factory-installed locking caps are used, then security is improved, but adaptability and lock customization are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system transitions from a fixed, integral lock design to a dynamic, replaceable lock design. The lockable blocking device can be removed and replaced with different locks or keys, providing adaptability and customization options while maintaining security functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The collar design with attachment bars and holes provides a universal interface that can accommodate various types of lockable blocking devices. This allows different locks and keys to be used with the same collar, enhancing adaptability and customization while preserving security.
3Reliability
If integral locks are used in locking caps, then security is improved, but ease of repair and lock replacement are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The lockable blocking device is designed as a separate, removable component from the collar. This segmentation allows the lock to be easily removed and replaced without affecting the collar or requiring specialized tools, significantly improving ease of repair while maintaining security through the secure attachment mechanism.
4Reliability
If aftermarket lockable caps are used, then security and lock customization are improved, but device complexity and installation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of modifying the cap to add locking functionality, the invention inverts the approach by adding a collar to the fill port nipple and using a lockable blocking device to secure the existing cap. This inversion simplifies the overall system by utilizing the existing cap structure while adding modular locking components.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed invention relates to maintaining a closed and secured position of a tank fill port cap on a tank such as a fuel tank. The invention comprises a dual collar structure providing a means for the attachment of a lockable blocking device to prevent a tank fill port cap from being removed from a tank fill port nipple. The lockable blocking device is removably and securely installed on a first collar and wherein the first collar is removably and securely installed on a tank fill port nipple such as on a large commercial truck fuel tank. The first collar and the blocking device discourages or prevents the theft or vandalism of the contents of the tank. The first collar attaches to the tank fill port nipple with setscrews in a continuous one piece collar or a clamp screw in a clamping split collar configuration. A second collar is fitted over the first collar covering the first collar attachment means preventing tampering or removal of the first collar. The second collar is secured in position by the blocking device being attached to the first collar requiring the blocking device to be removed from the first collar in order to remove the second collar from the first collar, therefore, maintaining a secure and removable dual collar device locking device to secure and protect the contents of a tank by preventing the tank cap from being removed. In addition, the lockable blocking device is required to reside in a position that does not interfere with a tank pressure relief device that may be centered in the fill port cap.