Oil Tank Locking Closure with Integrated Inner Sleeve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking solutions for oil storage tank filler openings are prone to damage, require multiple parts, and expose padlocks to corrosion, especially when access is infrequent, making them ineffective against theft.
Innovation Solution
A locking closure system comprising a fitting boss and inner part with a locking mechanism, where the inner part is insertable into the fitting boss, featuring a coaxial inner sleeve with a shoulder to resist removal and axially extending slots, and a lock barrel with projections that rotate to secure the filler cap, preventing unauthorized access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a padlock is used to secure the filler cap through a bar or rod, then the filler opening can be locked, but the padlock mechanism becomes exposed to corrosion and seizure over time
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the vulnerable padlock mechanism from the exposure environment by integrating the locking function directly into the filler cap structure. The locking formations are contained within the filler cap itself, eliminating the need for an external padlock that would be exposed to weather and corrosion.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is merged with the filler cap assembly, combining the sealing function and locking function into a single integrated unit. The locking formations are built into the filler cap structure, eliminating separate locking components that would be exposed to environmental damage.
2Reliability
If multiple separate parts are used for the locking device, then the locking function can be achieved, but the assembly becomes complex and prone to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple locking components into a single integrated filler cap assembly. The locking formations are built into the cap structure itself, eliminating the need for separate bars, rods, and padlocks, thereby reducing complexity while maintaining the locking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The filler cap serves multiple functions: it seals the filler opening and incorporates the locking mechanism directly into its structure. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate locking devices, reducing the total number of parts while achieving both sealing and locking objectives.
3Device complexity
If a simple cap is used to close the filler opening, then the structure remains simple, but the oil storage tank becomes vulnerable to theft
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines the simple cap structure with integrated locking formations built into the cap itself. This maintains the simplicity of the overall closure structure while adding theft prevention capability through the incorporated locking mechanism, avoiding the need for complex external locking devices.
Data Source
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AI summary
A locking closure (10) for closing the filler opening of an oil storage tank (2), said locking closure comprises an outer part (16) defining a fitting boss (12) securable to a filler opening of an oil storage tank and an inner part (20) insertable into the outer part in the manner of a plug to close the filler opening, the inner part having a locking mechanism operable to secure the inner part in the neck (4) of the outer part.