Tank Handle with Cylindrical Neck Passageway
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tank handling devices do not efficiently allow for the convenient lifting and transportation of propane, scuba, and oxy-acetylene tanks with cylindrical necks in a horizontal orientation, lacking a suitable design for these specific types of tanks.
Innovation Solution
A tank handle comprising an upper section with a horizontal grip, a lower section with a passageway for the tank neck, and a central section forming a linear connector, all made of stainless steel or equivalent materials, designed to provide a durable and ergonomic solution for lifting and transporting tanks with cylindrical necks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional container lifters are used, then general container lifting is possible, but convenient lifting and transportation of tanks with cylindrical necks in horizontal orientation is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is designed with a specific local configuration - a lower section with a passageway adapted to receive cylindrical tank necks in horizontal orientation, while the upper section provides a grip for user handling. This localized adaptation to the specific geometry of tank necks enables convenient lifting of this particular tank type without compromising general functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle is divided into distinct sections: an upper section for user gripping and a lower section with a passageway for the tank neck. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function - the upper section for ergonomic handling and the lower section for secure engagement with the tank neck, thereby achieving both ease of operation and adaptability.
2Ease of operation
If a specialized tank handle design is created, then convenient lifting of tanks with cylindrical necks is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handle combines multiple functions into a single integrated structure - it provides both a gripping surface for user comfort and a passageway for the tank neck, all within one continuous handle body. This merging of functions achieves ease of operation without requiring multiple separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
3Reliability
If a durable material like stainless steel is used, then reliability and durability are improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies stainless steel or equivalent relatively rigid materials, focusing on the mechanical properties (rigidity, durability) rather than the specific material composition. This parameter-based specification allows for potential substitution with alternative materials that meet the same durability requirements but may be more cost-effective to manufacture, thereby maintaining reliability while managing manufacturing costs.
Data Source
AI summary
The tank handle has an upper section, a central section, and a lower section, oriented in a common plane and integrally formed. The upper section has an aperture which thereby forms a grip for lifting, and the lower section has an aperture for coupling to a tank gas passageway. The handle is rotatably coupled to the gas passageway of a gas tank.