Lock Out Tag Out Device Tie Receiving Passageway
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lock out/tag out devices require two hands to install a padlock, which can be cumbersome, and lack a simple, one-handed method for securing hazardous energy sources during maintenance, potentially compromising safety and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A lock out/tag out device with a tie-receiving passageway that allows a zip tie to block the device from being opened, enabling one-handed installation and securing with additional mechanisms like a padlock, providing enhanced physical security and visual identification without the need for two hands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a padlock is used to secure the lock out/tag out device, then physical security is improved, but the device requires two hands for installation which reduces operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional components: a body portion with a passageway and a movable tongue portion. The tie-receiving passageway is integrated into the body portion, allowing the securing mechanism to be separated from the main locking function, enabling one-handed operation while maintaining security
Solution Approach 2:
A tie (such as a zip tie or cable tie) serves as an intermediary element that bridges the gap between the body portion and tongue portion. The tie is received in the passageway and prevents the tongue from moving to the opened position, providing security without requiring a padlock that needs two hands to install
2Reliability
If traditional lock out/tag out devices are used, then hazardous energy sources can be isolated, but the lack of one-handed operation capability compromises safety during maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The device allows the user to independently secure it with a single hand by inserting a tie into the passageway and manipulating the movable tongue portion. The design enables the user to perform the entire locking and securing process without requiring assistance from another hand, making it suitable for one-handed operation during maintenance tasks
Solution Approach 2:
The movable tongue portion can be easily manipulated by hand to transition between opened and closed positions. The tie received in the passageway dynamically secures the device in the closed position, allowing for quick and simple operation with one hand while maintaining reliable energy isolation
Data Source
AI summary
A device and related method temporarily restrict use of a control via one or more of lock out and tag out. The device includes a first and second portion. The first portion has a passageway adapted for the reception of a tie that extends through the first portion along a distance of passageway extension. The second portion has a tang and is movable relative to the first portion to move the tang transversely across the passageway relative to the direction of passageway extension to toggle the device between an opened position and a closed position. A tie may be received in the passageway and the reception of this tie in the passageway may prevent the device from being moved from the closed position back into the opened position due to inability of the tang of the second portion to be moved past the tie in the passageway of the first portion.