Explosion-Proof Plug Indicator Lamp for Hazardous Area Readiness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug-in devices in hazardous environments, such as those prone to explosions, lack a simple and reliable method for users to determine their operational readiness for energy supply.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an explosion-proof indicator lamp on the housing that can be visible from a distance, capable of displaying operational readiness and additional parameters through color, brightness, and frequency variations, with the option of using multiple LEDs and a microcontroller for programming and remote control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an indicator lamp is added to show operational readiness, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color changes by using an indicator lamp that can display different colors (red, yellow, green) to represent various operational states of the plug-in device. This allows users to quickly determine operational readiness and other parameters through color coding, significantly improving ease of operation without requiring complex displays or multiple indicators.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator lamp serves multiple functions: it shows operational readiness, indicates presence of voltage/current, signals maintenance requirements, and displays connection status. By consolidating these information functions into a single multi-functional indicator, the patent improves ease of operation while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
2Loss of information
If the indicator lamp can display multiple parameters with different colors and brightness, then the loss of information is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses different colors (red, yellow, green) of the indicator lamp to represent different operational parameters and states. This color-coding system allows multiple pieces of information to be conveyed through a single indicator, reducing information loss while avoiding the need for multiple separate indicators that would increase device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by varying the brightness and duration of the indicator lamp's illumination to convey different information. For example, different brightness levels indicate different operational states, and varying illumination durations provide additional information layers. This approach enables comprehensive information display through a simple indicator mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If the indicator lamp protrudes from the housing for better visibility, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability in explosive environments may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a transparent or translucent cover (dome-shaped) that encloses the indicator lamp. This cover allows light to pass through for visibility while maintaining the explosion-proof sealing of the housing. The cover acts as a barrier that protects the internal components from the external explosive environment while still enabling optical signal transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent cover serves as an intermediary element between the indicator lamp and the external environment. It allows the light signal to pass through to provide visibility from different positions while simultaneously maintaining the explosion-proof integrity of the housing, thus resolving the conflict between visibility and reliability.
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
Enables users to easily assess the plug-in device's readiness and operational status from a distance, enhancing safety and usability in hazardous environments by providing clear visual cues for energy availability and other critical parameters.
Implementation Method 1
at least one indicator lamp (4) is arranged on an upper side (7) of the housing (2)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
A plug device (1) for connecting a plug, more particularly in hazardous areas, such as a wall socket, flanged socket, coupling or similar, comprises a housing (2) with at least one flange-type socket (3). At least one indicator light (4) is visible on an outer face (5) of the housing.