Slide Bolt Hatch Lock for Gas Seal Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixed tank covers with hinged access panels suffer from imperfect gas seals due to the placement of locking mechanisms, which compromise the containment of noxious and odorous gases.
Innovation Solution
A slide bolt-type latch system where the bolt is captured in an extrusion above the gas seal, ensuring that the locking mechanism does not penetrate or interfere with the seal between the liftable panel and the surrounding structure, utilizing a rubbery seal like SANTOPRENE to maintain the integrity of the gas seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a slide latch with locking finger is used to secure the hinged access panel, then the panel can be reliably locked, but the gas seal is compromised because the locking mechanism penetrates through the seal area
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is extracted from the seal area by positioning the slide bolt latch mechanism entirely above the gas seal. The bolt engages with a receiving structure on the fixed cover without penetrating the seal zone, thereby separating the locking function from the sealing function and eliminating gas leakage through the latch mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is repositioned from a vertical engagement (through the seal) to a horizontal engagement (above the seal). The slide bolt moves laterally in a channel above the seal line, engaging a perpendicular receiving channel, thus changing the dimension of locking action away from the seal plane.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the slide bolt is positioned above the gas seal, then the gas seal integrity is maintained, but the locking mechanism becomes more complex in design
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the slide bolt for locking engagement, the receiving channel for guidance and engagement, and the handle for operation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The extruded aluminum components serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for the access panel, contain the gas seal groove, provide the locking channel for the slide bolt, and offer mounting surfaces. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate parts needed.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a rubber gasket seal is used around the access panel, then gas containment is improved, but the seal becomes vulnerable to damage from conventional locking mechanisms that penetrate the seal area
Solution Approach 1:
The locking action is extracted from the seal zone entirely. The slide bolt engages with a receiving structure on the fixed cover that is positioned above the rubber gasket seal, eliminating mechanical penetration or interference with the seal material and preventing seal damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The rubber gasket seal serves as an intermediary barrier between the interior and exterior environments. By positioning the latch mechanism above the seal, the seal is protected from direct mechanical stress while still performing its gas containment function.
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 solution effectively maintains a reliable gas seal during the locking process, preventing gas leakage and ensuring secure containment of noxious gases within the tank.
Implementation Method 1
a rubbery seal (which may be the material SANTOPRENE) provides a seal between the liftable hatch cover and the adjacent structure
Data Source
AI summary
A hinged hatch in a gas containment cover particularly for a sewage treatment tank has a slide bolt contained within a shaped channel of an extrusion of the hatch, positioned to engage the bolt at a mid-level position of the adjacent fixed beam or other member of the tank cover. The position of the bolt enables the hinged hatch to fully seal against a rubber-covered lip of the adjacent structural member, so that the bolt latch does not compromise integrity of the gas seal. As the bolt is slid into locking position it forces the hatch cover down more tightly against the gas seal.