CA2051522C - Control station cover - Google Patents
Control station coverInfo
- Publication number
- CA2051522C CA2051522C CA 2051522 CA2051522A CA2051522C CA 2051522 C CA2051522 C CA 2051522C CA 2051522 CA2051522 CA 2051522 CA 2051522 A CA2051522 A CA 2051522A CA 2051522 C CA2051522 C CA 2051522C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- box
- panels
- control station
- cover
- panel
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
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- Connection Or Junction Boxes (AREA)
- Patch Boards (AREA)
Abstract
A cover assembly for a control station includes a substantially rectangular open ended first box having a first panel, a second panel, a third panel and a fourth panel, the panels being connectable sequentially to form the first box and defining first and second open ends the first box being shaped to fit the control station. The box is provided with at least one substantially rectangular cover hinged to the first box to form a cover for the first open end.
A first seal connected around the inner periphery of one of the first box and the cover forms a seal between the first box and the cover. A second seal connected around the inner periphery of the first box forms a seal between the first box and the control station. A readily releasable latching mechanism is provided for securing the first box to the control station.
A first seal connected around the inner periphery of one of the first box and the cover forms a seal between the first box and the cover. A second seal connected around the inner periphery of the first box forms a seal between the first box and the control station. A readily releasable latching mechanism is provided for securing the first box to the control station.
Description
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5 ~I~LD OF TH~ ~Y~LlON
This invention relates to covers for control stations, and the like.
R~ UND OF THE INV~;1. 10N
In many industrial environments, controls are subject to a number of destructive elements including oil, water, other corrosive fluids, dirt, dust, sand, mud and accidental impact. While covers do exist for some controls, many controls have no covers designed for them. This invention helps satisfy the need for a cover for a control station by providing a cover assemhly that is easy to mount, and adapted to a wide variety of environments, yet seals the control from the environment while allowing ready access to the control. The device also has applicability to electrical instrumentation panels.
Equipment covers are shown in the following United States patents. However, none show the features of the present invention. In the description of these prior art patents that follow, the reference mentioned are those in the respective patents and do not correspond to reference numerals used in this patent disclosure.
Bright et al, United States patent no.
4,644,0~5, shows (see Figures 2, 3 and 4 particularly) an enclosure for communication equipment such as cross-connect equipment 10 and 12. Closures 126 and 124 are hinged to frame 114 and enclose the communications equipment. The edges of the closures or the frame have seals 170, 172, 138 and 140 for sealing the closures against the frame. The device is fixed to the ground, and is not readily detachable.
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5 ~I~LD OF TH~ ~Y~LlON
This invention relates to covers for control stations, and the like.
R~ UND OF THE INV~;1. 10N
In many industrial environments, controls are subject to a number of destructive elements including oil, water, other corrosive fluids, dirt, dust, sand, mud and accidental impact. While covers do exist for some controls, many controls have no covers designed for them. This invention helps satisfy the need for a cover for a control station by providing a cover assemhly that is easy to mount, and adapted to a wide variety of environments, yet seals the control from the environment while allowing ready access to the control. The device also has applicability to electrical instrumentation panels.
Equipment covers are shown in the following United States patents. However, none show the features of the present invention. In the description of these prior art patents that follow, the reference mentioned are those in the respective patents and do not correspond to reference numerals used in this patent disclosure.
Bright et al, United States patent no.
4,644,0~5, shows (see Figures 2, 3 and 4 particularly) an enclosure for communication equipment such as cross-connect equipment 10 and 12. Closures 126 and 124 are hinged to frame 114 and enclose the communications equipment. The edges of the closures or the frame have seals 170, 172, 138 and 140 for sealing the closures against the frame. The device is fixed to the ground, and is not readily detachable.
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- 3 -Fisher, United States patent no.3,183,714, shows a weatherproof enclosure designed for a variety of meter equipment. The enclosure 40 is formed from side panels 42, top 44 and end panels 48 and 50. This enclosure is mounted on a base 22 that includes an upturned flange 36. The enclosure is sealed around its bottom either with folded tabs 46 that hook over the flanges 36 or by fastening of the lower edges 54 of the panels 48 and 50 to the base 22. The entire structure is fastened down by using the meter equipment fasteners 58. However, the base 22 is mounted loosely on the meter mounting head 12, so that it may slide on the head. The enclosure does not appear to be detachable.
Langmack Jr~, et al, United States patent no.
3,868,040, shows a cover for electrical equipment that includes a first cover 12 hinged to a second cover 14.
The cov~r may be fastened to a concrete pad (Fig. 7), or to the ground (Fig.8). The two covers do not appear to be sealeA together, and it appears that the cover is intended ~or fairly large equip~lent.
Zelov, United States patent no. 2,630,476, shows an enclosure for a scientific instrument having a hinged cover 13.
Hawkins, United States patent no. 3,633,075, shows a cabinet installation for housing motor circuit controls havi~g a cover 99 with a hinged door ~02. The cover 99 is firmly attached to the cabinet.
Whitman, United States patent no. 3,111,030, shows a housing 10 with a cover 12 for a meter, the housing being fastened to a bracket 38 with stud 42 and nut 44. The cover does not hinge and is not detachable.
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~5~22 SUMM~RY OF T~E lNv~L.Ilo~
This invention provides a cover assembly for a control station comprising a su b s t a n t ia l ly rectangular open ended first box having a first panel, a second panel, a third panel and a fourth panel, the panels beiny connectable sequentially to form the first box and defining first and second open ends, the first box being shaped to fit the control station;
at least one substantially rectangular cover hinged to the first box to form a cover for the first open end;
first sealing means connected to one of ~he first box and the cover Eor forming a seal between the first box and the cover;
second sealing means conne.cted to the first box for forming a seal between the first box and the control station; and securing means for securin~ the first box to the control station.
In another embodiment, there is provided a cover assembly for use with a control station havin~
a mount that separates the control station from the surface it is mounted on, in which the securing means comprises a latch having a foot, the latch being movable to and fixable in a first position in which the foot extends under the control station and movable to a second position in which the foot is away from the control station. The latch may be resiliently biased to the first position.
In a still further embodiment, the panels are sequentially hinged together pairwise except for the first and fourth panels, and the securing means comprises a latch for securing the first and fourth :
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panels together, the panels having a dimension chosen such that when the panels are secured about the control station, the second sealing means is in firm contact with control station.
In a still further embodiment, the cover assembly is intended for use with a control station having a circumferential flange in which:
the panels are sequentially hinged together pairwise except for the first and fourth panels;
each of the panels includes a lip shaped to : .
conform to the circumferential flange;
the securing means comprises a latch for securing the first and fourth panels together, the panels having a dimension chosen such that when the panels are secured about the control station, the lips of the panels are secured to the circumferential flange of the control station.
~he panels may be each L-shaped and each forms a corner of the first box, in ~hich case the securing means comprising a plurality of fastening means for connecting each panel to its neighbouring panel in overlapping relationship about the control station, whereby the first box is adjustable to a variety of sizes for various control stations~ and the first : :
sealing means has a sealing surface wide enough to a~commodate the variety of sizes of the first box. -~
The cover may include a plurality of depending panels arranged sequentially around the cover to form a second box, the cover defining a top of the second box, the free ends of the depending panels defining a bottom of the second box; and the sealing means may be attached to the bottom of the second box. ~ .
In a still further embodiment, the invention provides, a cover assembly for a control station ;
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:: : -comprising a substantially rectangular open ended first box having a first panel, a second panel, a third panel and a fourth panel, the panels being connectable sequentially to form the first box and defining first and second open ends, the first box being shaped to fit the control station;
a substantially rectangular cover hinged to the first box to form a cover for the first open end, the cover including a plurality of depending panels arranged sequentially around the cover to form a second box, the cover defining a top of the second box, the free ends of the depending panels defining a bottom of the second box;
sealing means connected to the second box for forming a seal between the second hox and the control station; and securing means for securi~g the first box to the control station.
In this last embodiment, when intended for use with a control station having a mount that separates the control station from the surface it is mounted on, the securing means comprises a latch having a foot, the latch being movable to and fixable in a first position in which the foot extends under the control station and movable to a second position in which the foot is away from the control station.
Further, the latch may be resiliently biased to the first position.
In a still further embodiment, the panels are sequentially hinged together pairwise except for the first and fourth panels, and the securing means comprises a latch for securing the first and fourth panels together, the panels having a dimension chosen such that when the panels are secured about the - .-: .
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2 ~ 2 2 control station, the second sealing means is in firm contact with the control station.
When used with a control station having a circumferential flange, the panels are sequentially hinged together pairwise except for the first and fourth panels, aach of the panels includes a lip shaped to conform to the circumferential flange, the securing means comprises a latch for securing the first and fourth panels together, the panels having a dimension chosen such that when the panels are secured about the control station, the lips of the panels are secured to the circumferential flange of the control station.
There will now be described a preferred embodiment of the invention, with reference to the drawings, by way of illustration, in which like numerals denote like elements and in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a control station cover assembly according to the invention;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a control station cover assembly according to the invention;
Figure 3 is a perspective view of a t~ird embodiment o~ a control station cover assembly according to the invention;
Figures 4A, 4B and 4C show particular types of securing means for a control station cover according to the invention;
Figure 5 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a control station cover assembly ~, .. ~ .,. :.
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2 ~ 2 2 according to the invention showing a particular type of securing means;
Figure 6 is a side view of an embodiment of a control station cover according to the invention for attachment to a flanged control station;
Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a control station cover assembly according to the invention showing a version with overlapping panels;
Figure 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a cover box for a control station cover according to the invention showing a sealing means adapted for the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 7; and Figure 9 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a control station covler according to the invention.
DE8CRIPTION OF PREFERRED E~BODIM~:NTS
Referring to Figures 1, 2 and 3 there are shown several embodiments of a cover assembly 10 for a control station. As shown in Figure 1, the cover assembly 10 comprises a substantially rectangular open ended first box 12 having a first panel 14, a second panel 16, a third panel 18 and a fourth panel 20, the panels 14, 16, 1~ and 20 being connectable sequentially to form the first box 12. As shown the panels are rigidly connected to each other at their edges, but as will appear later, they need not all actually be rigidly connected. The panels are preferably made of a transparent, impact resistant, waterproof, oil resistant and fire resistant material such as polycarbonate, but may be made from other , . : . . .
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g similar plastic, fibreglass or metal. The panels defin~ first and second open ends 22 and 2~, and the panels are chosen so that when assembled they fit the control station to which they are to be attached.
A substantially rectangular cover panel 28, made for example of polycarbonate or other transparent, impact resistant, waterproof, oil resistant and fire resistant material, is hinged by hinges 38 (which may be plastic or steel) to the top of the first box 12 to form a cover for the first o~en end 22. A first sealing means 30, preferably ~Eormed from neoprene or other resilient sealing material, is connected to one of the upper edge of the first box 12 and the lower edge of the cover 28 for forming a seal between the first box 12 and the cover 28 when the cover is closed. In Figure 1, the sealing means is shown attached to the cover. A seco~d sealing means 32 is connected (for example b~ gluing) around the inner periphery of the first box 12 for forming a seal between the first box 12 and the control station.
Preferably, the sealing means 32 is located about half-way up the panels, and as shown extends all the way around the first box 12. For some applications, the sealing means may be applied a~ter the cover is secured to a control station. In such a case, a silicone adhesive such as ONE TOUCH~ silicone adhesi~e sealant available from General Electric Company could be used.
Securing means 36 is also provided for securing the first box 12 to the control station.
The securing means 36 shown in Figures 1 and 2 is intended for use with a control station having a mount that separates the control station from the surface it is mounted on. In this case, the securing t . . ~ .:.
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means 36 comprises a pair of latches 40, each having a foot 42, the latches being movable to and fixable in a first position in which the feet extend under the control station (as shown) and movable to a second position in which the feet are away from the control station.
As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the latches 40 may be for example an L-shaped piece of polycarbonate or steel that is glued, welded or bonded to the lower end of the panels 16 and 20 of the first box 12. This results in the latches being resiliently biased to the first position, yet they can be moved easily away from the box to allow the cover assembly to be removed from the control station. The feet of the latches pass under the control station so that the cover assembly cannot be removed without pulling back the latches.
When in place, the cover assembly substantially covers the control station and the controls themselves are protected from debris and corrosive materials in the local environment.
Also, the latches 40 may be passed through slots 41 in the side wall as shown in Figure 4B to provide the securing of the latches to the panels. As shown in Figure 4C, the latches 40 may also be screwed in place, and as shown in that Figure may be placed at the corners of the first box 12. ~-While a single cover has been shown in Figures 1 and 2, it will be observed that a pair of hinged covers 44 could be used, as shown in Fi~ure 3. Handles -46 may be used to open the covers 44. The covers 28 and 44 may be planar as shown in Figure 1 and the right side of Figure 3 or they could form a second box as shown in Figure 2 or the left side of Figure 3.
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2 ~ 2 2 Flanges 48 are provided for opening and closing the covers 28 shown in Figures 1 and 2, the flanges being provided with holes, for a padlock or the like.
Figure 5 shows a cover assembly similar to that of Figure 2 in which the panels are sequentially hinged together pairwise (meaning that the first is hinged to the second, the second to the third etc) except for the first and fourth panels 14 and 20 respectively. In this case, the securing means 36 comprises a latch 50 for securing the first and fourth panels togeth~r. The panels have a dimension chosen such that when the panels are secured about the control station, the second sealing means 32 is in firm contact with the control station. After placing the first box about the control station, it is desirable to seal the panels 14 and 20 with any of a variety of sealants such as a bead of silicone sealant.
Referring to Figure 6 there is shown a cover assembly for use with a control station having a circumferential flange. As with the control station of Figure 5, it is preferable in this case that the panels are sequentially hinged together pairwise except for the first and fourth panels. Further, each -of the panels includes a lip 60 or shoulder shaped to conform to the circumfersntial flange of the control station and the securing means 36 comprises a latch 50 as shown in Figure 5 for securing the first and fourth panels together, the panels having a dimension chosen such that when the panels are secured about the control station, the lips 60 of the panels are secured under the circumferential flange of the control station.
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Referring to Figure 7 there is shown a cover assembly in which the panels 70, 72, 74 and 76 are each L-shaped and each *orms a corner of the first box. In this case, the securing means comprises a plurality of fastening means 80 for connecting each panel to its neighbouring panel in overlapping relationship about the control station. Each fastening means shown includes a ridged strap on one end of each panel and a slot for receiving the ridged strap on the other end of each panel~ The straps fit snugly in tha slots, with the ridges catching the edges of the slots. By this means, the first box is adjustable to a variety of sizes for various control station sizes.
As shown in Figure 8, the first sealing means 30 of a cover 28 for the first box shown in Figure 7 should have a sealiny surface wide enough to accommodate the variety of sizes of the first box. Once assembled, the overlapping panels should be sealed for example with a bead of silicone sealant, for example at the location shown at 78.
In the case of Figure 2 and as shown in Figure 8, the cover 28 includes a plurality of depending panels 92, 94, 96 and 98 arranged sequentially around the cover to form a second box. The cover defines a top of the second box, and the free ends of the depending panels define a bottom of the second box.
The sealing means 30 is attached to the bottom of the second box.
Referring to Figure 9, a further embodiment of a cover assembly for a control station is shown ~here the cover includes a seal 132 at a mid-point of one of the panels and one of the seals is omitted. As with the cover assembly of Figures 1 and 2, there is provided a substantially rectangular open ended first . ~ . . -?
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box 112 having a first panel 114~ a second panel 116, a third panel 118 and a fourth panel 120. The panels are connectable sequentially to form the first box 112 and define first and second open ends 122 and 124. The first panels and therefore the size of the first box are chosen to fit the control station. A substantially rectangular cover 128 is hinged by hinges 138 to the first box 112 to form a cover for the first open end 122, the cover including a plurality of depending panels 1~0, 142, 144 and 146 arranged sequentially around the cover to form a second box. The cover defines a top of the second box, and the free ends of the depending panels define a bottom of the second box. Sealing means 132 are connected around the inner periphery of the second box for forming a seal between the second box and the control station when the cover is closed over the control station. Securing means 136 similar to securing means 36 are used for securing the first box to the control station. For some applications, the first box 112 might be omitted an~
the securing means placed directly onto the second box, but this is not preferred.
The first bo~ in the embodiment of Figure 9 might also be constructed as shown in Figures 5 or 6, with the equivalent securing mechanisms sho~n there.
q'he preferably polycarbonate components of the cover assembly may be hand built or injection moulded depending on requirements.
Operation of Preferred Embodiments Firstly, an appropriate cover assembly is chosen that fits the subject control station. The cover assembly is placed over the control station and , :
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secured to it. The cover may then be removed as desired to obtain access to the control.
Alternative Embodiments A person skilled in the art could make immaterial modifications to the invention described and claimed in this patent without departing from the essence of the invention.
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Langmack Jr~, et al, United States patent no.
3,868,040, shows a cover for electrical equipment that includes a first cover 12 hinged to a second cover 14.
The cov~r may be fastened to a concrete pad (Fig. 7), or to the ground (Fig.8). The two covers do not appear to be sealeA together, and it appears that the cover is intended ~or fairly large equip~lent.
Zelov, United States patent no. 2,630,476, shows an enclosure for a scientific instrument having a hinged cover 13.
Hawkins, United States patent no. 3,633,075, shows a cabinet installation for housing motor circuit controls havi~g a cover 99 with a hinged door ~02. The cover 99 is firmly attached to the cabinet.
Whitman, United States patent no. 3,111,030, shows a housing 10 with a cover 12 for a meter, the housing being fastened to a bracket 38 with stud 42 and nut 44. The cover does not hinge and is not detachable.
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.: . . . . .
~5~22 SUMM~RY OF T~E lNv~L.Ilo~
This invention provides a cover assembly for a control station comprising a su b s t a n t ia l ly rectangular open ended first box having a first panel, a second panel, a third panel and a fourth panel, the panels beiny connectable sequentially to form the first box and defining first and second open ends, the first box being shaped to fit the control station;
at least one substantially rectangular cover hinged to the first box to form a cover for the first open end;
first sealing means connected to one of ~he first box and the cover Eor forming a seal between the first box and the cover;
second sealing means conne.cted to the first box for forming a seal between the first box and the control station; and securing means for securin~ the first box to the control station.
In another embodiment, there is provided a cover assembly for use with a control station havin~
a mount that separates the control station from the surface it is mounted on, in which the securing means comprises a latch having a foot, the latch being movable to and fixable in a first position in which the foot extends under the control station and movable to a second position in which the foot is away from the control station. The latch may be resiliently biased to the first position.
In a still further embodiment, the panels are sequentially hinged together pairwise except for the first and fourth panels, and the securing means comprises a latch for securing the first and fourth :
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panels together, the panels having a dimension chosen such that when the panels are secured about the control station, the second sealing means is in firm contact with control station.
In a still further embodiment, the cover assembly is intended for use with a control station having a circumferential flange in which:
the panels are sequentially hinged together pairwise except for the first and fourth panels;
each of the panels includes a lip shaped to : .
conform to the circumferential flange;
the securing means comprises a latch for securing the first and fourth panels together, the panels having a dimension chosen such that when the panels are secured about the control station, the lips of the panels are secured to the circumferential flange of the control station.
~he panels may be each L-shaped and each forms a corner of the first box, in ~hich case the securing means comprising a plurality of fastening means for connecting each panel to its neighbouring panel in overlapping relationship about the control station, whereby the first box is adjustable to a variety of sizes for various control stations~ and the first : :
sealing means has a sealing surface wide enough to a~commodate the variety of sizes of the first box. -~
The cover may include a plurality of depending panels arranged sequentially around the cover to form a second box, the cover defining a top of the second box, the free ends of the depending panels defining a bottom of the second box; and the sealing means may be attached to the bottom of the second box. ~ .
In a still further embodiment, the invention provides, a cover assembly for a control station ;
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:: : -comprising a substantially rectangular open ended first box having a first panel, a second panel, a third panel and a fourth panel, the panels being connectable sequentially to form the first box and defining first and second open ends, the first box being shaped to fit the control station;
a substantially rectangular cover hinged to the first box to form a cover for the first open end, the cover including a plurality of depending panels arranged sequentially around the cover to form a second box, the cover defining a top of the second box, the free ends of the depending panels defining a bottom of the second box;
sealing means connected to the second box for forming a seal between the second hox and the control station; and securing means for securi~g the first box to the control station.
In this last embodiment, when intended for use with a control station having a mount that separates the control station from the surface it is mounted on, the securing means comprises a latch having a foot, the latch being movable to and fixable in a first position in which the foot extends under the control station and movable to a second position in which the foot is away from the control station.
Further, the latch may be resiliently biased to the first position.
In a still further embodiment, the panels are sequentially hinged together pairwise except for the first and fourth panels, and the securing means comprises a latch for securing the first and fourth panels together, the panels having a dimension chosen such that when the panels are secured about the - .-: .
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2 ~ 2 2 control station, the second sealing means is in firm contact with the control station.
When used with a control station having a circumferential flange, the panels are sequentially hinged together pairwise except for the first and fourth panels, aach of the panels includes a lip shaped to conform to the circumferential flange, the securing means comprises a latch for securing the first and fourth panels together, the panels having a dimension chosen such that when the panels are secured about the control station, the lips of the panels are secured to the circumferential flange of the control station.
There will now be described a preferred embodiment of the invention, with reference to the drawings, by way of illustration, in which like numerals denote like elements and in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a control station cover assembly according to the invention;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a control station cover assembly according to the invention;
Figure 3 is a perspective view of a t~ird embodiment o~ a control station cover assembly according to the invention;
Figures 4A, 4B and 4C show particular types of securing means for a control station cover according to the invention;
Figure 5 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a control station cover assembly ~, .. ~ .,. :.
.. . .
2 ~ 2 2 according to the invention showing a particular type of securing means;
Figure 6 is a side view of an embodiment of a control station cover according to the invention for attachment to a flanged control station;
Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a control station cover assembly according to the invention showing a version with overlapping panels;
Figure 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a cover box for a control station cover according to the invention showing a sealing means adapted for the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 7; and Figure 9 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a control station covler according to the invention.
DE8CRIPTION OF PREFERRED E~BODIM~:NTS
Referring to Figures 1, 2 and 3 there are shown several embodiments of a cover assembly 10 for a control station. As shown in Figure 1, the cover assembly 10 comprises a substantially rectangular open ended first box 12 having a first panel 14, a second panel 16, a third panel 18 and a fourth panel 20, the panels 14, 16, 1~ and 20 being connectable sequentially to form the first box 12. As shown the panels are rigidly connected to each other at their edges, but as will appear later, they need not all actually be rigidly connected. The panels are preferably made of a transparent, impact resistant, waterproof, oil resistant and fire resistant material such as polycarbonate, but may be made from other , . : . . .
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g similar plastic, fibreglass or metal. The panels defin~ first and second open ends 22 and 2~, and the panels are chosen so that when assembled they fit the control station to which they are to be attached.
A substantially rectangular cover panel 28, made for example of polycarbonate or other transparent, impact resistant, waterproof, oil resistant and fire resistant material, is hinged by hinges 38 (which may be plastic or steel) to the top of the first box 12 to form a cover for the first o~en end 22. A first sealing means 30, preferably ~Eormed from neoprene or other resilient sealing material, is connected to one of the upper edge of the first box 12 and the lower edge of the cover 28 for forming a seal between the first box 12 and the cover 28 when the cover is closed. In Figure 1, the sealing means is shown attached to the cover. A seco~d sealing means 32 is connected (for example b~ gluing) around the inner periphery of the first box 12 for forming a seal between the first box 12 and the control station.
Preferably, the sealing means 32 is located about half-way up the panels, and as shown extends all the way around the first box 12. For some applications, the sealing means may be applied a~ter the cover is secured to a control station. In such a case, a silicone adhesive such as ONE TOUCH~ silicone adhesi~e sealant available from General Electric Company could be used.
Securing means 36 is also provided for securing the first box 12 to the control station.
The securing means 36 shown in Figures 1 and 2 is intended for use with a control station having a mount that separates the control station from the surface it is mounted on. In this case, the securing t . . ~ .:.
2 ~
means 36 comprises a pair of latches 40, each having a foot 42, the latches being movable to and fixable in a first position in which the feet extend under the control station (as shown) and movable to a second position in which the feet are away from the control station.
As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the latches 40 may be for example an L-shaped piece of polycarbonate or steel that is glued, welded or bonded to the lower end of the panels 16 and 20 of the first box 12. This results in the latches being resiliently biased to the first position, yet they can be moved easily away from the box to allow the cover assembly to be removed from the control station. The feet of the latches pass under the control station so that the cover assembly cannot be removed without pulling back the latches.
When in place, the cover assembly substantially covers the control station and the controls themselves are protected from debris and corrosive materials in the local environment.
Also, the latches 40 may be passed through slots 41 in the side wall as shown in Figure 4B to provide the securing of the latches to the panels. As shown in Figure 4C, the latches 40 may also be screwed in place, and as shown in that Figure may be placed at the corners of the first box 12. ~-While a single cover has been shown in Figures 1 and 2, it will be observed that a pair of hinged covers 44 could be used, as shown in Fi~ure 3. Handles -46 may be used to open the covers 44. The covers 28 and 44 may be planar as shown in Figure 1 and the right side of Figure 3 or they could form a second box as shown in Figure 2 or the left side of Figure 3.
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2 ~ 2 2 Flanges 48 are provided for opening and closing the covers 28 shown in Figures 1 and 2, the flanges being provided with holes, for a padlock or the like.
Figure 5 shows a cover assembly similar to that of Figure 2 in which the panels are sequentially hinged together pairwise (meaning that the first is hinged to the second, the second to the third etc) except for the first and fourth panels 14 and 20 respectively. In this case, the securing means 36 comprises a latch 50 for securing the first and fourth panels togeth~r. The panels have a dimension chosen such that when the panels are secured about the control station, the second sealing means 32 is in firm contact with the control station. After placing the first box about the control station, it is desirable to seal the panels 14 and 20 with any of a variety of sealants such as a bead of silicone sealant.
Referring to Figure 6 there is shown a cover assembly for use with a control station having a circumferential flange. As with the control station of Figure 5, it is preferable in this case that the panels are sequentially hinged together pairwise except for the first and fourth panels. Further, each -of the panels includes a lip 60 or shoulder shaped to conform to the circumfersntial flange of the control station and the securing means 36 comprises a latch 50 as shown in Figure 5 for securing the first and fourth panels together, the panels having a dimension chosen such that when the panels are secured about the control station, the lips 60 of the panels are secured under the circumferential flange of the control station.
i, - -~. :
2 ~
Referring to Figure 7 there is shown a cover assembly in which the panels 70, 72, 74 and 76 are each L-shaped and each *orms a corner of the first box. In this case, the securing means comprises a plurality of fastening means 80 for connecting each panel to its neighbouring panel in overlapping relationship about the control station. Each fastening means shown includes a ridged strap on one end of each panel and a slot for receiving the ridged strap on the other end of each panel~ The straps fit snugly in tha slots, with the ridges catching the edges of the slots. By this means, the first box is adjustable to a variety of sizes for various control station sizes.
As shown in Figure 8, the first sealing means 30 of a cover 28 for the first box shown in Figure 7 should have a sealiny surface wide enough to accommodate the variety of sizes of the first box. Once assembled, the overlapping panels should be sealed for example with a bead of silicone sealant, for example at the location shown at 78.
In the case of Figure 2 and as shown in Figure 8, the cover 28 includes a plurality of depending panels 92, 94, 96 and 98 arranged sequentially around the cover to form a second box. The cover defines a top of the second box, and the free ends of the depending panels define a bottom of the second box.
The sealing means 30 is attached to the bottom of the second box.
Referring to Figure 9, a further embodiment of a cover assembly for a control station is shown ~here the cover includes a seal 132 at a mid-point of one of the panels and one of the seals is omitted. As with the cover assembly of Figures 1 and 2, there is provided a substantially rectangular open ended first . ~ . . -?
2 ~
box 112 having a first panel 114~ a second panel 116, a third panel 118 and a fourth panel 120. The panels are connectable sequentially to form the first box 112 and define first and second open ends 122 and 124. The first panels and therefore the size of the first box are chosen to fit the control station. A substantially rectangular cover 128 is hinged by hinges 138 to the first box 112 to form a cover for the first open end 122, the cover including a plurality of depending panels 1~0, 142, 144 and 146 arranged sequentially around the cover to form a second box. The cover defines a top of the second box, and the free ends of the depending panels define a bottom of the second box. Sealing means 132 are connected around the inner periphery of the second box for forming a seal between the second box and the control station when the cover is closed over the control station. Securing means 136 similar to securing means 36 are used for securing the first box to the control station. For some applications, the first box 112 might be omitted an~
the securing means placed directly onto the second box, but this is not preferred.
The first bo~ in the embodiment of Figure 9 might also be constructed as shown in Figures 5 or 6, with the equivalent securing mechanisms sho~n there.
q'he preferably polycarbonate components of the cover assembly may be hand built or injection moulded depending on requirements.
Operation of Preferred Embodiments Firstly, an appropriate cover assembly is chosen that fits the subject control station. The cover assembly is placed over the control station and , :
: .
2 ~ 2 ~
secured to it. The cover may then be removed as desired to obtain access to the control.
Alternative Embodiments A person skilled in the art could make immaterial modifications to the invention described and claimed in this patent without departing from the essence of the invention.
' ;' ' ' "' ~
Claims (13)
PRIVILEGE OR PROPERTY IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. A shield assembly for a control station mounted on a surface, the shield assembly comprising:
a substantially rectangular open ended first box having a first panel, a second panel, a third panel and a fourth panel, the panels being connected sequentially and sealed together to form the first box and defining first and second open ends, the first box being shaped to fit the control station;
resilient first sealing means connected to the interior of the first box for forming a press-fit seal between the first box and the control station; and securing means firmly attached to the first box and detachably attachable to the control station for securing the first box to the control station.
a substantially rectangular open ended first box having a first panel, a second panel, a third panel and a fourth panel, the panels being connected sequentially and sealed together to form the first box and defining first and second open ends, the first box being shaped to fit the control station;
resilient first sealing means connected to the interior of the first box for forming a press-fit seal between the first box and the control station; and securing means firmly attached to the first box and detachably attachable to the control station for securing the first box to the control station.
2. The shield assembly of claim 1 further including:
at least one cover hinged to the first box to form a cover for the first open end; and second sealing means connected to one of the first box and the cover for forming a seal between the first box and the cover.
at least one cover hinged to the first box to form a cover for the first open end; and second sealing means connected to one of the first box and the cover for forming a seal between the first box and the cover.
3. The shield assembly of claim 1 or 2 for use with a control station having a mount that separates the control station from the surface it is mounted on, in which the securing means comprises a latch having a foot, the latch being movable to and fixable in a first position in which the foot extends under the control station and movable to a second position in which the foot is away from the control station.
4. The shield assembly of claim 3 in which the latch is resiliently biased to the first position.
5. The shield assembly of claim 2 in which the panels are sequentially hinged together pairwise except for the first and fourth panels, and the securing means comprises a latch for securing the first and fourth panels together, the panels having a dimension chosen such that when the panels are secured about the control station, the second sealing means is in firm contact with control station.
6. The shield assembly of claim 1 or 2 for use with a control station having a circumferential flange in which:
the panels are sequentially hinged together pairwise except for the first and fourth panels;
each of the panels includes a lip shaped to conform to the circumferential flange; and the securing means comprises a latch for securing the first and fourth panels together, the panels having a dimension chosen such that when the panels are secured about the control station, the lips of the panels are secured to the circumferential flange of the control station.
the panels are sequentially hinged together pairwise except for the first and fourth panels;
each of the panels includes a lip shaped to conform to the circumferential flange; and the securing means comprises a latch for securing the first and fourth panels together, the panels having a dimension chosen such that when the panels are secured about the control station, the lips of the panels are secured to the circumferential flange of the control station.
7. The shield assembly of claims 1 or 2 in which:
the panels are each L-shaped and each forms a corner of the first box;
the securing means comprising a plurality of fastening means for connecting each panel to its neighbouring panel in overlapping relationship about the control station, whereby the first box is adjustable to a variety of sizes for various control stations; and the first sealing means has a sealing surface wide enough to accommodate the variety of sizes of the first box.
the panels are each L-shaped and each forms a corner of the first box;
the securing means comprising a plurality of fastening means for connecting each panel to its neighbouring panel in overlapping relationship about the control station, whereby the first box is adjustable to a variety of sizes for various control stations; and the first sealing means has a sealing surface wide enough to accommodate the variety of sizes of the first box.
8. The shield assembly of claim 2 in which:
the cover includes a plurality of depending panels arranged sequentially around the cover to form a second box, the cover defining a top of the second box, the free ends of the depending panels defining a bottom of the second box; and the first sealing means being attached to the bottom of the second box.
the cover includes a plurality of depending panels arranged sequentially around the cover to form a second box, the cover defining a top of the second box, the free ends of the depending panels defining a bottom of the second box; and the first sealing means being attached to the bottom of the second box.
9. A shield assembly for a control station mounted on a surface, the shield assembly comprising:
a substantially rectangular open ended first box having a first panel, a second panel, a third panel and a fourth panel, the panels being connectable sequentially to form the first box and defining first and second open ends, the first box being shaped to fit the control station;
a substantially rectangular cover hinged to the first box to form a cover for the first open end, the cover including a plurality of depending panels arranged sequentially around the cover to form a second box, the second box having an interior, the cover defining a top of the second box, the free ends of the depending panels defining a bottom of the second box;
resilient sealing means disposed around the interior of the second box for forming a press-fit seal between the second box and the control station; and securing means firmly attached to the first box and detachably attachable to the controls station for securing the first box to the control station.
a substantially rectangular open ended first box having a first panel, a second panel, a third panel and a fourth panel, the panels being connectable sequentially to form the first box and defining first and second open ends, the first box being shaped to fit the control station;
a substantially rectangular cover hinged to the first box to form a cover for the first open end, the cover including a plurality of depending panels arranged sequentially around the cover to form a second box, the second box having an interior, the cover defining a top of the second box, the free ends of the depending panels defining a bottom of the second box;
resilient sealing means disposed around the interior of the second box for forming a press-fit seal between the second box and the control station; and securing means firmly attached to the first box and detachably attachable to the controls station for securing the first box to the control station.
10. The shield assembly of claim 9 for use with a control station having a mount that separates the control station from the surface it is mounted on, in which the securing means comprises a latch having a foot, the latch being movable to and fixable in a first position in which the foot extends under the control station and movable to a second position in which the foot is away from the control station.
11. The shield assembly of claim 10 in which the latch is resiliently biased to the first position.
12. The shield assembly of claim 11 in which the panels are sequentially hinged together pairwise except for the first and fourth panels, and the securing means comprises a latch for securing the first and fourth panels together, the panels having a dimension chosen such that when the panels are secured about the control station, the sealing means is in firm contact with the control station.
13. The shield assembly of claim 9 for use with a control station having a circumferential flange in which:
the panels are sequentially hinged together pairwise except for the first and fourth panels;
each of the panels includes a lip shaped to conform to the circumferential flange; and the securing means comprises a latch for securing the first and fourth panels together, the panels having a dimension chosen such that when the panels are secured about the controls station, the lips of the panels are secured to the circumferential flange of the control station.
the panels are sequentially hinged together pairwise except for the first and fourth panels;
each of the panels includes a lip shaped to conform to the circumferential flange; and the securing means comprises a latch for securing the first and fourth panels together, the panels having a dimension chosen such that when the panels are secured about the controls station, the lips of the panels are secured to the circumferential flange of the control station.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US61178690A | 1990-11-13 | 1990-11-13 | |
| US07/611,786 | 1990-11-13 |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2051522A1 CA2051522A1 (en) | 1992-05-14 |
| CA2051522C true CA2051522C (en) | 1998-09-22 |
Family
ID=24450414
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2051522 Expired - Lifetime CA2051522C (en) | 1990-11-13 | 1991-09-17 | Control station cover |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2051522C (en) |
-
1991
- 1991-09-17 CA CA 2051522 patent/CA2051522C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2051522A1 (en) | 1992-05-14 |
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKEX | Expiry |