Color-Coded Valve Locking Indicator for Storage Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containers with valves often have the issue of valves being shipped in an open position, leading to potential leaks and safety hazards due to the difficulty in visually determining the valve's status from a distance.
Innovation Solution
A visual apparatus with a cylindrical body featuring distinct portions of different diameters and colors is attached to the valve, allowing for quick and accurate indication of the valve's open or closed status from a distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a valve is located at a position that is not easily accessible for visual inspection, then the container can be more compact or the valve can be positioned for operational convenience, but it becomes difficult to determine the valve status from a distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary visual indicator device that attaches to the valve assembly. This mediator translates the valve's internal status (open/closed) into an externally visible signal (color-coded indicators facing different directions), allowing remote detection without direct inspection of the valve mechanism itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical inspection of the valve position with a visual signaling system. Instead of requiring observers to physically examine the valve mechanism's position, the system uses color-coded visual indicators that automatically display the valve status, substituting mechanical detection with optical detection.
2Device complexity
If the valve status is not clearly indicated, then the container design can be simpler, but it increases the risk of shipping open containers and potential leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs color-coded visual indicators (e.g., green for closed, red for open) that change their visible face based on valve position. This color-coding system provides immediate, unambiguous communication of valve status, enhancing reliability without adding complex mechanical safety systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The visual indicator system is self-activating and automatically displays the correct valve status without requiring external power, control systems, or manual operation. The indicators passively respond to the valve's position, providing continuous safety monitoring as part of the normal container operation.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If a visual indication system is added to the container, then valve status can be identified from a distance, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the visual indicator functionality with the existing valve assembly structure. The indicators are integrated into or attached to the valve housing, combining the sealing/flow control function with the visual signaling function in a single integrated component, thereby minimizing additional complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The visual indicator components appear to be simple, inexpensive elements (such as color-coded caps, stickers, or lightweight indicators) that can be easily manufactured and attached. These simple visual elements provide high visibility value without requiring expensive or complex materials or mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
Containers are used to hold and even ship items, such as fluids. In such containers, there is often a valve that can be used to off let pressure or even dispense the fluid from the container. The location of the valve is at the bottom, making it difficult to check to make sure if it is closed, such as for filling and/or transport. A color-coded locking apparatus can be placed on the valve to provide quick and accurate assessment of the valve. The apparatus is designed to fit one way when the valve is open, and the other way when the valve is closed, making it reliable for use.