Universal Locking Clamp for Valve Handle Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional valve lockout devices are limited in their ability to accommodate the diverse range of valve sizes, shapes, and types, requiring multiple lockout devices for different applications, which complicates their use in various fluid system components.
Innovation Solution
A locking clamp with first and second clamping members, featuring a locking mechanism that secures the clamp in multiple positions, allowing it to be used as a lockout device for valves by clamping the valve handle against the valve body, with adjustable features such as interlocking teeth and a retaining member to prevent unauthorized removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single conventional lockout device design is used, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to different valve types and sizes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The locking clamp is designed with a universal base member that can accommodate multiple valve types and sizes through a single device structure. The base member includes a receiving space that can hold different handle configurations, and the locking mechanism can secure various handle positions, making one device suitable for diverse valve applications without requiring multiple specialized lockout devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking clamp incorporates movable and adjustable components including a slidable locking member that can be positioned at different locations along the base member, and a handle member that can be adjusted to different angles and positions. This dynamic adjustability allows the same device to adapt to various valve handle configurations and sizes while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types or sizes of lockout devices are retained to accommodate various valves, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity and inventory management becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking clamp consolidates the functionality of multiple specialized lockout devices into a single universal device. The base member's receiving space is designed to accommodate different handle types (L-shaped, T-shaped, lever handles, etc.), and the locking mechanism can secure various handle positions, eliminating the need to maintain multiple different lockout device models in inventory.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the functions of multiple specialized lockout devices into one unified device. By combining an adjustable base member, a slidable locking mechanism, and an adaptable handle member into a single integrated structure, the device achieves the combined functionality of what would traditionally require several different lockout devices, simplifying inventory management while maintaining comprehensive valve coverage.
3Ease of operation
If the locking member is made movable to allow adjustment, then the ease of operation improves, but the reliability of the lockout function may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed to be movable during the adjustment phase, allowing operators to easily position it at different locations along the base member to accommodate various handle sizes and positions. Once positioned, the locking member engages with the handle in a secure manner that prevents unintended movement, providing both ease of adjustment and reliable lockout functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows preliminary adjustment of the locking member to the desired position before final engagement with the valve handle. This preliminary positioning action enables operators to configure the lockout device for different handle types without compromising the subsequent security of the locked position, as the movable locking member can be precisely positioned and then securely engaged.
Data Source
AI summary
A locking clamp device is provided with first and second clamping members. The first clamping member includes a base member with a first clamping surface and a locking member movable with respect to the base member between a securing position and a releasing position. The second clamping member is slidably engaged with the first clamping member and selectively movable to a plurality of clamping positions. The second clamping member includes a second clamping surface opposite the first clamping surface. The lockout device further includes a means for preventing movement of the locking member from the securing position to the releasing position. The locking member is configured to secure the second clamping member in one of the plurality of clamping positions when the locking member is in the securing position.