Lockout Device Hook Retraction for Inadvertent Operation Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
In electric utility power systems, there is a risk of inadvertent operation of energized components during maintenance, posing a severe safety threat to personnel, as existing lock out devices may not effectively prevent access or tool attachment to locked-out components.
Innovation Solution
A lock out device system and method that uses a slidable blade and connector assembly to extend and retract a hook, physically securing the locked-out component by sliding the blade from a release position to a lockout position, ensuring the hook is retracted and the component cannot be accessed or operated inadvertently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lock out device is attached to serviced components, then access to the component is denied and inadvertent operation is prevented, but the device complexity increases and may not effectively prevent tool attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The lock out device incorporates a hook that can be nested within the body of the device. The hook extends from the body to engage with the serviced component, then retracts back into the body to prevent tool attachment. This nesting approach maintains reliability while minimizing the device's external complexity and footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock out device uses a dynamic hook mechanism that can extend and retract. The hook transitions from a retracted state (when not in use) to an extended state (when engaging the component), and back to retracted (when securing the component). This dynamic behavior allows the device to be simple when not in use but effective when engaged.
2Reliability
If the hook is extended outward to engage the component, then access denial is effective, but the hook may be accessible to tools for inadvertent operation
Solution Approach 1:
The lock out device applies preliminary anti-action by having the hook retract into the body after engaging the component. This retraction prevents tools from being attached to the hook, thereby counteracting the potential harmful effect of inadvertent operation before it can occur. The device proactively eliminates the risk rather than merely reacting to it.
3Device complexity
If the lock out device structure is simplified, then device complexity is reduced, but the effectiveness in securing the component may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The lock out device extracts the essential securing function into a separate, simple hook mechanism. The hook is a distinct element that can be extended from the device body to engage the component, then retracted to secure it. This extraction allows the main device body to remain simple while the hook provides the necessary securing effectiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for securing a locked-out component is provided. One embodiment slides a slidable blade of a lock out controller from a lockout position to a release position, wherein an inside connector between the slidable blade and a piston of a lock out attachment pushes the piston from a hook lock position to a hook extended position so that a hook is extended outward from the lock out attachment; coupling the hook to the locked-out component; and sliding the slidable blade of the lock out controller from the release position to the lockout position, wherein the inside connector coupled between the slidable blade pulls the piston from the hook extended position to the hook lock position, and wherein the hook is retracted substantially back into the interior of the lock out attachment so that the locked-out component that is coupled to the hook cannot be accessed by a tool.