Projectile Trap Housing for Reliable Conduit Blockage Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing hydraulic hoses for blockages are labor-intensive and unreliable, requiring manual observation of projectiles passing through the conduit.
Innovation Solution
A system with a housing containing a movable trap that can switch between catching and releasing configurations, allowing visual confirmation of projectile passage through a conduit, and optionally using an actuator and optical sensors for automated detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual observation method is used to confirm projectile passage, then reliability of detection is maintained, but labor intensity increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical observation system with an automated optical detection system. The housing with window allows optical sensors or visual systems to automatically detect projectile passage, eliminating the need for manual observation while maintaining detection reliability and significantly improving productivity through automated operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service detection where the housing and trap mechanism automatically provide visual confirmation of projectile passage without requiring external manual intervention. The transparent window allows the system to self-monitor and self-report test results, reducing labor requirements while maintaining reliable detection
2Productivity
If automated systems are introduced to reduce labor, then productivity increases, but reliability of detection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces automation through optical detection systems and automated trap mechanisms that replace manual operations. The system automatically detects projectile passage through the transparent window and mechanically actuates the trap to contain or release projectiles, improving productivity while maintaining reliability through engineered detection and actuation systems
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent window acts as an intermediary that enables automated optical sensors to detect projectile passage reliably. This intermediary component allows non-contact, automated detection without compromising the reliability of the measurement, bridging the gap between automated systems and accurate detection
3Reliability
If trap mechanism is added to catch projectiles, then safety and detection capability improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the detection function and projectile containment function into a single integrated housing structure. The transparent window serves both as a viewing port for detection and as part of the trap mechanism for containing projectiles, while the actuator simultaneously controls trap operation and test sequencing, reducing overall system complexity despite added functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure serves multiple functions: it contains the trap mechanism, provides structural support, and incorporates the transparent window for both detection and containment purposes. The actuator serves dual purposes of moving the trap between configurations and potentially controlling the test sequence, reducing the number of separate components needed
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a system for visually detecting projectiles to thereby confirm that the projectiles are not trapped in a conduit. The system includes a housing defining an inlet. A trap is positioned within the housing. The trap is moveable about and between a catching configuration and a releasing configuration. An actuator is configured to move the trap about and between the catching configuration and the releasing configuration. The housing has a window that permits visual detection of the trap from a position outside of the housing.