Modular Explosion-Proof Enclosure for Removable Mobile Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical devices for hazardous areas are often expensive, inflexible, and fail to meet multiple classification standards, limiting their use in varying hazardous environments and requiring permanent coupling, which restricts their application in different conditions.
Innovation Solution
A modular explosion proof assembly for mobile devices, such as tablets and phones, designed to be removably coupled and meet stringent ATEX / IECEx Zone 1 and 2, as well as North America Class 1, Division 1 and 2 standards, using a flame extinguishing enclosure made from milled aluminum or other rugged materials to prevent ignition and withstand impacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrical devices are used in hazardous areas with traditional explosion proof enclosures, then safety is improved by containing internal explosions, but cost increases and flexibility decreases due to permanent coupling requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly is divided into separable components: a removable coupling mechanism connects the electrical device to the enclosure, allowing the device to be detached and replaced while maintaining the explosion proof protection of the enclosure
Solution Approach 2:
The enclosure and coupling mechanism are designed to accommodate multiple different electrical devices, making the same enclosure universally applicable to various devices while maintaining safety standards
2Reliability
If specialized explosion proof enclosures are designed for specific hazardous area classifications, then compliance with safety standards is improved, but adaptability to different hazardous environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism and enclosure are designed with universal compatibility features that allow the same assembly to meet multiple hazardous area classification standards (Class I, II, III and Division 1, 2), enabling deployment across different environmental conditions without requiring specialized enclosures for each classification
3Reliability
If explosion proof assemblies are permanently coupled to electrical devices, then safety containment is improved, but device interchangeability and operational efficiency worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The permanent coupling is replaced with a removable coupling mechanism that maintains safety containment through proper sealing and connection design, while enabling quick attachment and detachment of electrical devices to improve operational efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling transitions from a static permanent connection to a dynamic removable connection, allowing the assembly to adapt between secured containment state and interchangeable device state, balancing safety and operational efficiency
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C
Figure 1D
AI summary
An explosion proof assembly that includes a first portion with a window; an outer touchscreen sealed around a perimeter of a first portion surface; and a second portion releasably coupled to the first portion. The second portion has a second portion inner surface defined by a second portion inner edge that transitions into a second portion dissipation wall. The second portion has a second portion window sealed off by a rear element engaged around a perimeter of a second portion surface. The assembly includes a mobile device disposed therein, and operable via a mobile device touchscreen. Upon assembly, the outer touchscreen is transmissive to the mobile device touchscreen, and the rear element is inductive to an electromagnetic signal.