Retractor Tool for Safe Measuring Device Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for safe and reliable methods to insert and remove measuring device heads from process spaces that are under full process flow and pressure, particularly in continuous processes where shutdowns are infrequent, to prevent injuries and ensure maintenance can be performed without risking spills or splashes.
Innovation Solution
An arrangement and method utilizing a retractor tool with rails, a cradle, and a driving mechanism, connected to a valve member, which includes a valve lock mechanism to prevent opening of the valve during insertion or removal, ensuring the measuring device is securely positioned to prevent fluid flow until it is safely inserted or removed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the valve member is opened to allow measuring device insertion/removal, then the measuring device can be serviced, but fluid may spill or splash causing injury
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring device is inserted into the cradle before opening the valve member. The cradle acts as a receiving structure that positions the measuring device head within the valve member's opening path, ensuring the device is already in place before fluid flow begins, thus preventing spills
Solution Approach 2:
The cradle serves as an intermediary device between the operator and the measuring device. It provides a controlled interface for insertion and removal, guiding the measuring device into proper position and containing any potential fluid escape during the transition
2Ease of operation
If manual handling of measuring device is used, then operation is simple, but user safety is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor tool acts as an intermediary mechanical device that operators use to handle the measuring device. It includes a cradle for secure holding, rails for guided movement, and a driving mechanism for automated positioning, combining simplicity of operation with enhanced safety through controlled, guided handling
Solution Approach 2:
The retractor tool is divided into functional segments: the cradle for holding the measuring device, the rails for movement guidance, and the driving mechanism for actuation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific safety function while maintaining overall operational simplicity
3Productivity
If the valve member is opened before measuring device is in position, then insertion is faster, but fluid flow causes hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring device is placed in the cradle and positioned within the valve member's opening path before the valve member is opened. The driving mechanism then automatically moves the cradle with the pre-positioned measuring device into the process space, ensuring the device is already in place before fluid flow begins, thus preventing spills while maintaining efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The driving mechanism provides continuous, controlled movement of the cradle from its initial position to the final insertion position. This continuous action ensures the measuring device remains properly positioned throughout the valve opening and insertion process, eliminating interruptions that could cause hazards
Data Source
AI summary
An arrangement and method are disclosed for inserting and removing a head of a measuring device to and from a process space. The arrangement includes a measuring device with a measuring head and a retractor tool connected to a valve member. The retractor tool includes rails, a cradle for receiving the measuring device and arranged to slide along the rails, and a driving mechanism for moving the cradle. A valve lock mechanism prevents opening of the valve member if the measuring device is not at a location barring a fluid flow from the process space, and the head of the measuring device is insertable to the process space when the measuring device is received in the cradle.