One-Piece Lockout Device for Quarter Turn Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lockout devices for manually operated quarter turn valves are often impractical, difficult to install, or ineffective, particularly for valves in unique configurations, and fail to meet safety regulations like those set by OSHA, especially in industries such as wind turbine maintenance where standard locking mechanisms are not available.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, one-piece lockout device with no moving parts that anchors to the pump pivot linkage, allowing easy installation and use, featuring chamfered parallel ears for secure fitting and 45-degree locking of the valve handle, with optional padlock holes for added security, designed for ease of use, durability, and low cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing lockout devices are used for manually operated quarter turn valves, then valve operation can be prevented, but the devices are often impractical, difficult to install, or ineffective for unique valve configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The lockout device is divided into distinct functional components: a body portion that anchors to the pump assembly, a handle engagement portion that interfaces with the valve handle, and locking elements. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the overall installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes the existing pump pivot linkage and valve handle structure as integral parts of the locking mechanism, eliminating the need for separate anchorage structures or complex installation procedures. The pump assembly serves its dual purpose of both fluid control and lockout device anchorage.
2Reliability
If lockout devices require removal of valve handle or complex installation procedures, then security against unauthorized operation is improved, but installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device is pre-configured with the handle engagement portion and locking elements in their final positions during manufacturing. The parallel ears are pre-positioned to align with the pump pivot linkage, eliminating the need for field adjustments or complex assembly steps during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device introduces a simple intermediary locking mechanism that bridges the pump assembly and valve handle, providing secure locking without requiring removal or modification of existing components. This intermediary structure enables rapid installation while maintaining security.
3Reliability
If lockout devices are designed for specific valve positions only, then locking effectiveness is improved for those positions, but versatility across different valve configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lockout device is designed with universal applicability through its engagement with the standardized pump pivot linkage and valve handle interface. The body portion can anchor to various pump assemblies while the handle engagement portion accommodates different valve handle configurations, making the device versatile across multiple valve types and positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs asymmetric design elements in the handle engagement portion that allow it to interface with valve handles in multiple positions (including the 45-degree closed position). This asymmetric geometry enables the same device to effectively lock valves in different configurations without requiring repositioning or adjustment.
4Ease of operation
If lockout devices rely on valve piping for anchorage, then installation is simplified, but the structural integrity and reliability of the lockout is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the anchorage function with the pump assembly itself, utilizing the pump's pivot linkage and structural components as the anchorage point. This integration ensures that the lockout device is anchored to a structurally sound component that is inherently part of the valve control system, thereby maintaining both ease of installation and high structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A one piece valve lockout device for use with a quarter turn, rotary selector valve that is closed at the one-eighth turn position and is mounted on a common assembly with a manually operated pump. The device includes parallel ears configured in a U shape, used to secure the device to the pumping assembly. The ears are oriented 45 degrees from a locking arm. The locking arm has two parallel plates extending downward around a valve handle. The parallel plates have pairs of aligned holes in which a padlock can be inserted, preventing unauthorized removal of the device.