Extrol Tank Catching Device for Safe Removal of Elevated Heavy Tanks
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydronic heating system extrol tanks are difficult to replace due to their heavy weight and elevated mounting, posing risks of injury and property damage during disconnection and removal.
Innovation Solution
A basket-like extrol tank catching device with nylon straps and metal hooks, equipped with pinch adjusters, allows secure attachment to overhead pipes, enabling safe and controlled lowering of the tank for removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual handling of extrol tanks is used during removal, then workers can directly control and move the tanks, but the risk of injury and property damage increases due to heavy weight and elevated mounting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a catching device as an intermediary tool between the worker and the extrol tank. This device includes a basket-like receptacle that catches the tank during removal, along with straps and hooks that secure the tank. The intermediary device transfers the handling task from direct manual contact to a mechanical system, thereby maintaining operational control while eliminating the harmful risk of direct manual handling of heavy tanks at elevated positions.
2Area of stationary object
If extrol tanks are mounted at elevated positions above the boiler, then space utilization is optimized and the system compactness is improved, but the difficulty of access and replacement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by positioning the catching device at the elevated mounting location before the extrol tank is removed. The device is pre-installed with hooks that engage with the mounting structure, and the basket is positioned to receive the tank as it is being detached. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for workers to manually lower and control the tank during removal, making the replacement process safer and easier despite the elevated position.
3Strength
If heavy extrol tanks weighing 35 to 56 lbs are used, then the structural integrity and durability of the heating system is improved, but the ease of handling and replacement by unassisted workers deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The catching device enables self-service by allowing a single worker to safely remove and replace extrol tanks without assistance. The device's basket securely holds the heavy tank, while the straps and hooks provide mechanical advantage for lifting and positioning. This self-service capability eliminates the need for multiple workers or complex lifting equipment, making the heavy tank replacement task manageable for one person while maintaining the structural integrity of the tank itself.
Data Source
AI summary
An extrol tank catching device is disclosed, which is a tool designed for the safe removal of a #30 extrol tank. The extrol tank catching device comprises a body component that is configured in a basket-like shape and which is sized and shaped to accept a #30 extrol tank. Specifically, the body component is a cylindrical, reinforced mesh body with two nylon straps on top, each equipped with metal pinch adjusters for adjustment of the straps. Further, there are two large metal hooks that attach to the horizontal heating pipe above the #30 tank. Thus, the device's basket-like shape facilitates the safe and secure capture of the heavy #30 tank once it is unscrewed, ensuring it drops safely into the body component during replacement or maintenance of the tanks.