초록 ▼

A safety lock-out apparatus for an access door of a pressure vessel which operates automatically without relying on external power sources is provided. The lock-out apparatus includes a locking assembly having a lock member which is supported in a hollow lock chamber for movement between a retracted

A safety lock-out apparatus for an access door of a pressure vessel which operates automatically without relying on external power sources is provided. The lock-out apparatus includes a locking assembly having a lock member which is supported in a hollow lock chamber for movement between a retracted position and an extended position. The lock member and a complementary recess being arranged such that when the lock member is in the extended position it engages the complementary recess so as to prevent the access door from being opened. The lock housing chamber is in fluid communication with the interior of the pressure vessel such that when the interior of the pressure vessel is pressurized, the increased pressure bears on the lock member and moves it counter to the bias of a spring into the engaged position thereby locking the door. When the increased pressure is removed from the pressure vessel, the spring moves the lock member into the retracted position.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A pressure vessel comprising:a wall structure which defines an interior space of the pressure vessel,a door movable between open and closed positions so as to permit access to said interior space through an opening in said wall structure, anda locking device supported by

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A pressure vessel comprising:a wall structure which defines an interior space of the pressure vessel,a door movable between open and closed positions so as to permit access to said interior space through an opening in said wall structure, anda locking device supported by said door, said locking device including a lock member movable between an extended position wherein the lock member prevents movement of said door from said closed position to said open position and a retracted position wherein said lock member permits movement of said door from said closed position to said open position, and said lock member being in fluid communication with the interior space of said pressure vessel such that said lock member is movable to said extended position in response to pressurization of said vessel for preventing movement of said door to said open position while said vessel is pressurized.