Pivoting Cylinder Clamp Bracket for One-Handed Gas Cylinder Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Field workers face challenges in efficiently and safely removing and replacing gas sample cylinders from flammable/explosive cabinets, as conventional systems require both hands and significant effort, posing safety risks due to the need for careful handling of filled cylinders.
Innovation Solution
A quick release bracket system with a pivotable jaw mechanism and adjustable latch allows for single-handed clamping and unclamping of gas sample cylinders, enabling secure and efficient handling by allowing one hand to grip the cylinder while the other manipulates the latch, reducing labor and time required for substitution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional cylinder clamp is used, then the sample cylinder is securely held in the cabinet, but both hands are required to loosen and unclamp the cylinder, making single-handed operation impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp mechanism transitions from a static, multi-step operation to a dynamic, spring-loaded system. The spring element provides automatic engagement force when the latch is released, enabling the cylinder to be quickly clamped or unclamped with a single hand motion. The spring's elastic energy storage and release mechanism eliminates the need for manual tightening/loosening operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element is extracted as a separate functional component from the traditional clamp mechanism. This spring element is specifically designed to provide the clamping force, while the latch mechanism only needs to hold or release the spring's energy. This separation allows the clamp to be operated with one hand while maintaining secure holding capability.
2Productivity
If a secure clamp is used to hold the cylinder firmly, then the cylinder is safely retained, but considerable effort and time are required to remove and replace cylinders
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element provides continuous clamping force automatically when the latch is engaged, eliminating the need for manual tightening. The spring's elastic properties ensure consistent holding force without requiring operator effort. For release, a simple latch disengagement allows rapid cylinder removal, dramatically increasing replacement speed while maintaining secure retention during storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element is pre-loaded to store elastic energy that is automatically applied when the latch is engaged. This preliminary energy storage eliminates the need for real-time force application during clamping, allowing rapid cylinder installation without compromising the security of the hold.
3Reliability
If the field worker maintains a firm grip on the filled sample cylinder during removal, then safety is improved, but both hands are occupied making the operation more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is extracted as a separate functional component that provides automatic clamping force. This allows the operator to use one hand to grip the cylinder securely while the other hand simply needs to actuate the latch mechanism for release. The spring's automatic engagement ensures the cylinder remains securely held during the entire operation, improving safety without increasing operational difficulty.
4Ease of operation
If a simple latch mechanism is used, then the device is easier to operate, but it may not provide sufficient holding force to securely retain the cylinder
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element provides continuous clamping force automatically when the latch is engaged, eliminating the need for manual tightening. The spring's elastic properties ensure consistent holding force without requiring operator effort. For release, a simple latch disengagement allows rapid cylinder removal, dramatically increasing replacement speed while maintaining secure retention during storage.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system facilitates safer and faster handling of gas sample cylinders by enabling single-handed operation, reducing the time and effort needed for swapping cylinders and improving safety during the process.
Implementation Method 1
a pivotal hinge element affixed on said first side proximate to said first shoulder
Implementation Method 2
a spring element, said spring element being cooperative with said latch member to automatically engage and disengage said latch member
Data Source
AI summary
A quick release gas sample cylinder clamp with pivoting jaws for single handed unlatching of a securely mounted sample gas cylinder upon engagement and disengagement of the battalion latch.