Reusable Valve Lockout Device with Adjustable Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve lockout devices are not reusable and are inefficient as they require installation each time they are needed, and they often fail to accommodate various valve configurations due to being designed for specific types and sizes of valves.
Innovation Solution
A valve lockout device with a mount portion, a body lock portion, a cover, and an adjustment member that allows for alignment of apertures to inhibit access and movement, enabling re-use and adaptation to different valve configurations by using a clasp to secure the device in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a valve lockout device is designed for a single type of valve, then it can provide a robust and reliable lockout solution for that specific valve, but it cannot accommodate other size and/or type of valves
Solution Approach 1:
The valve lockout device is designed with adjustable components that enable it to accommodate multiple valve types and sizes. The position control arm can be adjusted to engage with different valve handle configurations, and the device can be mounted on various valve bodies, making a single device suitable for multiple applications while maintaining reliable lockout functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The lockout device incorporates adjustable elements that can be modified to match different valve configurations. The position control arm can be repositioned along the valve handle, and the device includes adjustable mounting options, allowing the same device to adapt dynamically to different valve sizes and types while maintaining secure engagement.
2Reliability
If a valve lockout device is installed adjacent to a valve each time it is needed, then it can provide proper lockout functionality, but the lockout procedure becomes time consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The valve lockout device includes a mount portion that can be pre-installed on the valve during maintenance or setup activities. This preliminary installation of the mounting component eliminates the need to install the entire lockout device adjacent to the valve each time it is needed, reducing procedure time while maintaining reliable lockout functionality when required.
Data Source
AI summary
A valve lockout device includes a body having a mount portion that defines a passageway. A cover positioned adjacent to the body defines a cover portion adjacent the mount portion thereby inhibiting access to the passageway in the mount portion. A position control arm extends through at least one of the body and cover, the position control arm defines a valve engagement portion and an adjustment portion. A lock aperture is formed in at least the other of the body and cover through which the position control arm extends. An adjustment member is positioned adjacent at least one of the body and the cover, the adjustment member defines an adjustment member aperture aligned with the lock aperture and is configured to engage the adjustment portion of the position control arm. Coupling the lock aperture and the adjustment member aperture inhibits relative movement of the body, cover, and adjustment member.