Modular Explosion-Proof Assembly with Tool-Operated Retention
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing explosion-proof assemblies for electrical devices are often expensive, cumbersome, and not adaptable for use in varying hazardous environments, particularly failing to meet requirements for abnormal conditions and multiple device compatibility.
Innovation Solution
A modular explosion-proof assembly comprising a waterproof enclosure for computing devices, with a tool-operated retention mechanism that prevents combustion and exposure to hazardous environments, allowing for use in Class I and Class II areas, including Division 2 conditions, and compatibility with different devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional explosion-proof enclosures are used for electrical devices in hazardous areas, then safety requirements are met, but the devices become expensive and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The enclosure is divided into a first portion and a second portion that can be separated from each other. The first portion houses the electrical device while the second portion can be attached or removed. This segmentation allows the enclosure to meet explosion-proof requirements when assembled while maintaining simplicity and adaptability when portions are separated.
Solution Approach 2:
The enclosure is designed to accommodate multiple different electrical devices through a universal interface system. The first portion contains standardized mounting structures and connection points that can interface with various devices, making the same enclosure suitable for different applications in hazardous areas without requiring device-specific custom enclosures.
2Reliability
If explosion-proof enclosures are designed for specific hazardous area classifications, then safety certification is achieved, but the enclosures cannot be used in other hazardous environments or abnormal conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The enclosure transitions from a static, fixed-design structure to a dynamic, adaptable system. The separable first and second portions can be configured differently based on the hazardous environment, and the tool-operated retention mechanism allows for secure assembly in certified configurations while enabling reconfiguration for different classification requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The enclosure system allows changing of operational parameters by reconfiguring which portions are assembled together. Different combinations of the first and second portions can be used to meet different hazardous area classification requirements (Class I, Class II, Division 1, Division 2, ATEX Zone 1, ATEX Zone 2), enabling the same basic enclosure design to be certified for multiple environments.
3Reliability
If enclosures are permanently coupled to electrical devices, then protection is ensured, but multiple devices cannot share the same enclosure and functionality is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The permanent coupling is replaced with a separable connection system consisting of a first portion and a second portion. The tool-operated retention mechanism provides secure, reliable attachment when assembled, ensuring protection integrity, while allowing the portions to be separated for device replacement or reconfiguration, enabling multiple devices to share the same enclosure.
4Reliability
If complex retention mechanisms are used to secure enclosures, then safety is maintained, but user operation becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
A tool-operated retention mechanism serves as an intermediary between the user and the enclosure assembly. The mechanism uses a simple tool interface that users can operate easily, while the underlying retention system provides secure, reliable attachment. The tool acts as a mediator that simplifies the user interaction while maintaining the integrity and security of the enclosure connection.
Data Source
AI summary
An explosion proof assembly includes a case configured to receive a waterproof assembly having a waterproof enclosure housing a computing device, wherein the case is configured to prevent combustion within an internal cavity of the waterproof enclosure. The assembly may include a flap coupled to the case to retain the computing device in the case, wherein the flap includes a tool-operated retention member configured to retain the flap in a closed position, wherein the retention member of the case is configured to be unfastened using a tool, and wherein the case and the tool-operated retention member are configured to prevent combustion within an internal cavity of the computing device.