Extension device for closure mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of propane tanks for gas grills face difficulties in accessing and operating the main valve, which can be inconvenient and hazardous, especially when the tank is positioned out of sight or in an inaccessible location.
Innovation Solution
A remote operation device comprising an adaptor, a user knob, and a flexible connector that allows the user to operate the valve from a distance, using a rod connected to the adaptor and user knob, enabling the valve to be opened or closed without physical access to the tank.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the main valve knob is positioned at the top of the propane tank, then the valve can be operated directly by hand, but the user must access the tank which may be positioned out of sight or in inaccessible locations, creating safety hazards and inconvenience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an extension device as an intermediary between the user and the valve knob. This device includes a rod mechanism with a user-operated knob at one end and a valve engagement mechanism at the other end, allowing the user to operate the valve remotely without direct access to the tank, thereby eliminating safety hazards while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The extension device extends the operational reach in a spatial dimension, allowing the user to operate the valve from a different position and distance. The rod mechanism provides dimensional extension that bridges the gap between the user's comfortable operating position and the valve location on the tank
2Adaptability or versatility
If the propane tank is positioned below or behind the grill for safety and space reasons, then the tank is less visible and more compact, but the valve knob becomes inaccessible requiring the user to bend down or lean over
Solution Approach 1:
The extension device serves as a mediator that decouples the valve operation function from the tank position. The rod mechanism with its engagement mechanism at one end and user knob at the other allows the tank to be positioned flexibly (below or behind the grill) while maintaining easy valve accessibility through the extended reach mechanism
3Device complexity
If the valve knob is grasped and turned by hand directly, then the operation is simple and direct, but the user must be in close proximity to the hot grill area which is dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The extension device introduces a mechanical intermediary (rod mechanism) between the user's hand and the valve knob. This allows the user to operate the valve from a safe distance away from the hot grill area while the rod transmits the rotational force to open or close the valve, maintaining operational simplicity while eliminating thermal exposure hazard
Data Source
AI summary
An extension device for remotely opening and closing a valve from a user knob is described. The device includes a flexible connector that allows the user knob to be positioned in various places relative the valve. One use for the disclosed device is with a gas grill, wherein the gas tank is placed in a position that is not easily accessible or is difficult for some persons to access. The extension device may be mounted in various positions on or near the grill allowing the user to open and close the gas tank's valve before and after use of the grill.