Lock Hasp for Propane Tank Restraint Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current portable liquid propane gas tank locking devices are cumbersome and inefficient, making it difficult for dealerships and owners to effectively secure these tanks on recreational vehicles, leading to theft risks and unnecessary labor costs.
Innovation Solution
A restraint device with a vertically extended shaft, horizontal crossbar, regulator bracket, locking nut, and lock hasp configuration that allows for easy installation and removal of a portable padlock, providing secure attachment of the gas tanks to the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional locking devices are used to secure portable liquid propane gas tanks, then the tanks can be restrained, but the devices are cumbersome and inefficient, requiring excessive labor and time for installation and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is divided into separate functional components: a hasp portion that attaches to the tank bracket, a shackle that receives the padlock, and a locking nut that secures the assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be independently installed and removed, simplifying the overall operation while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is extracted from a complex traditional locking device and concentrated into a simple hasp-and-shackle mechanism that works with a standard padlock. This extraction removes unnecessary complexity while preserving the essential security function, making installation and removal straightforward.
2Productivity
If traditional locking devices are used to secure portable liquid propane gas tanks, then the tanks can be restrained, but the devices are cumbersome and inefficient, leading to increased labor costs for dealerships and owners
Solution Approach 1:
The hasp portion is designed with self-aligning features that allow it to be quickly attached to the bracket without requiring precise alignment or special tools. The locking nut threads onto the shaft in a straightforward manner, enabling users to secure the tank independently without assistance, thereby improving productivity and reducing labor costs.
3Ease of operation
If portable liquid propane gas tanks are mounted in exposed locations for convenience and safety, then access to gas distribution system is improved, but the tanks become vulnerable to theft
Solution Approach 1:
The hasp-and-shackle mechanism serves as an intermediary security layer between the exposed tank and potential thieves. The hasp attaches to the existing bracket structure, and the shackle provides a simple interface for padlock attachment, creating an effective barrier that protects the tank while maintaining the exposed mounting configuration for operational convenience.
Data Source
AI summary
A restraint device for restraining and securing a portable liquid propane gas tank comprises a regulator bracket disposed above a crossbar, wherein an upper first threaded exposed end of a vertically extending shaft extends through the regulator bracket, a locking nut disposed above the regulator bracket, wherein the locking nut threadingly engages the upper first threaded exposed end of the vertically extending shaft, and a lock hasp disposed above the locking nut. The lock hasp comprises a central portion and a flange depending downwardly from a first side of the central portion of the lock hasp and through a slot in the regulator bracket, the flange having an opening at a distal portion thereof through which a shackle of a removable locking device may be inserted to secure the gas tank within the restraint device.