Open-Path Gas Detector Alignment Tool for Single-Handed Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing alignment tools for open path gas detection systems are cumbersome and dangerous to use, particularly when positioning the transmitter and receiver in difficult-to-reach locations, often requiring two hands for secure attachment and removal, and lack effective locking mechanisms, leading to accidental detachment and safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
An alignment tool with a bayonet-style attachment system featuring spring clips and a release member that allows single-handed secure attachment and removal, utilizing a locking mechanism to prevent accidental detachment, and includes a biasing element to ensure the tool remains locked until intentionally released.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional alignment tools are used for open path gas detection systems, then alignment precision can be achieved, but the tools require two hands for attachment and removal, creating safety hazards in difficult-to-reach locations
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system transitions from a static two-handed operation to a dynamic single-handed operation. The bayonet-style attachment allows the tool to be quickly attached and detached with one hand through rotational motion, while the trigger mechanism provides dynamic control over the locking state, enabling secure attachment without requiring two hands.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system incorporates a trigger mechanism that automatically locks the alignment tool in place upon attachment, eliminating the need for manual securing with two hands. The spring-loaded trigger provides self-locking functionality, allowing single-handed operation while maintaining secure attachment.
2Ease of operation
If traditional alignment tools are used without effective locking mechanisms, then ease of attachment is maintained, but accidental detachment occurs leading to safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded trigger mechanism is pre-configured to automatically engage and lock the alignment tool upon attachment. This beforehand cushioning ensures that the tool is securely locked in place before the user releases their hand, preventing accidental detachment while maintaining simple single-handed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system uses a self-locking trigger mechanism that automatically secures the tool in place upon attachment. The spring-loaded design provides automatic engagement without requiring additional manual securing actions, ensuring both ease of operation and attachment security simultaneously.
3Reliability
If alignment tools are designed for secure locking, then accidental detachment is prevented, but the complexity of the attachment system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger mechanism combines multiple functions into a single component: it serves as the locking mechanism, the release mechanism, and the indicator of attachment status. This merging reduces the number of separate parts and simplifies the overall attachment system while maintaining reliable locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The bayonet-style attachment with trigger mechanism provides multiple functions: secure locking, easy release, status indication, and single-handed operation. This multi-functional design achieves reliable attachment security without increasing complexity, as all these functions are integrated into a compact, unified system.
Data Source
AI summary
An alignment tool for use in connection with an open path gas detection system, which includes an interface including one or more connectors, includes an optical system having a scope and an attachment system operatively connected to the optical system. The attachment system includes a body including one or more cooperating connectors. The body is rotatable about an axis thereof in a first direction to bring the one or more cooperating connectors into connection with the one or more connectors. The attachment system further includes one or more locking elements which engage the one or more connectors after a predetermined amount of rotation of the body in the first direction to form a state of locked engagement. A release member is in rotatable connection with the body in a second direction, opposite the first direction, to cause the one or more locking elements to disengage from the one or more connectors of the interface so that the body can be rotated in the second direction to remove the attachment system from connection with the interface.