Lockout system for energy sources

Abstract

A lockout system includes a hasp assembly and a plurality of tags. The hasp assembly has a back plate defining slots each sized and shaped to receive a tag. The back plate and tags each have openings that align when a tag is received in a slot. A first hasp portion has a first loop portion and a second hasp portion has a second loop portion. The first and second hasp portions are rotatable with respect to one another such that moving the lockout system has both an unlocked position and a locked position associated with an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the first and second hasp portions complete and define a closed loop, where one or more tags can be installed in slots preventing further movement from the closed position.

Claims

1. A lockout system comprising: at least six tags, each comprising an elongated plate with a first end and a second end, wherein each of the at least six tags defining a laterally extending tag opening; and a hasp assembly comprising: a first hasp portion having a first loop portion and a first body portion, and a second hasp portion having a second loop portion and a second body portion, the first and second body portions defining a plurality of slots, wherein each of the plurality of slots is sized and shaped to receive one of the plurality of tags, the first and second body portions further defining a plurality of lock openings, and wherein each of the plurality of lock openings is sized, shaped, and positioned to align with the tag opening of a respective one of the plurality of tags received within a respective one of the plurality of slots; wherein the second hasp portion and the first hasp portion are movable relative to one another, such that the first hasp portion and the second hasp portion have at least: (a) a first position, in which the hasp assembly is in an unlocked position, and (b) a second position, in which the hasp assembly is in a locked position; wherein when at least one tag of the plurality of tags is received in the hasp assembly, the hasp assembly is prevented from moving to the unlocked position.

2. The lockout system of claim 1, further comprising: a pivoting connection formed between the first hasp portion and the second hasp portion.

3. The lockout system of claim 1 further comprising a first cavity formed in the first hasp portion; and a second cavity formed in the second hasp portion; and an electronics assembly mounted in the space formed by the first and the second cavities formed in the first and second hasp portions.

4. The lockout system of claim 3 further comprising: an electronic display visible through a window formed in one of the first and second hasp portions; electrical slot contacts in each of the plurality of slots and coupled to the electronic display; and electrical tag contacts on each of the plurality of tags; wherein any one or more of the plurality of tags installed in the hasp assembly results in a completed circuit with the electronic display.

5. The lockout system of claim 4 further comprising: a transmitter circuit on each of the plurality of tags; and a transceiver circuit coupled to the electronic display; wherein each of the plurality of tags communicates wirelessly with the electronic display when installed in the hasp assembly.

6. The lockout system of claim 3 further comprising: a database disposed in communication with the hasp assembly; one or more computers disposed in communication with the database; wherein the hasp assembly communicates lockout information to the database and each of the one or more computers is configured to display the lockout information to a user.

7. The lockout system of claim 6, wherein the lockout information includes one or more data selected from the group consisting of a lockout status, a tag identifier, a lockout date, and a slot identifier.

8. The lockout system of claim 1 further comprising a pivoting connection rotatably coupling the first hasp portion and the second hasp portion, thereby enabling the first hasp portion and the second hasp portion to be movable relative to one another.

9. The lockout system of claim 1, wherein at least two of the at least six tag openings are vertically parallel, horizontally overlapping, and laterally displaced from one another.

10. A lockout assembly for a lockout system having a plurality of tags, each of the plurality of tags comprising an elongated plate with a first end and a second end, wherein each of the plurality of tags defining a laterally extending tag opening; and the lockout assembly comprising: a first hasp portion having a first loop portion; a second hasp portion having a second loop portion; a plurality of slots in the first and second hasp portions, wherein each of the plurality of slots is sized and shaped to receive one of the plurality of tags; a plurality of lock openings in the first and second hasp portions, wherein each of the plurality of lock openings is sized, shaped, and positioned to align with a laterally extending tag opening of a respective one of the plurality of tags received within a respective one of the plurality of slots; and a pivoting connection rotatably coupling the first hasp portion and the second hasp portion, wherein the first hasp portion and the second hasp portion are movable relative to one another between an unlocked position and a locked position in which the first loop portion and the second loop portion define a closed loop; wherein when at least one tag of the plurality of tags is received in the lockout assembly, the lockout assembly is prevented from moving from the locked position to the unlocked position.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) FIG. 1 is a photo showing an example of a prior-art lockout/tagout kit that includes a hasp, tags, and a lock with keys.

(2) FIG. 2 is a photo of a prior-art lockout/tagout kit in use on a valve.

(3) FIG. 3 is a photo of another prior-art lockout hasp in use with locks on an electrical panel.

(4) FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a lockout system of the present invention showing the lockout system in a closed position.

(5) FIG. 5 illustrates the lockout system of FIG. 4 showing the lockout system in an open position with tags removed from the hasp assembly.

(6) FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment of a back plate and hasp of the present invention.

(7) FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of a locking bar of the lockout system of the present invention.

(8) FIG. 8 illustrates a group of tags of the present invention.

(9) FIG. 9 illustrates a front plate of the lockout system of the present invention.

(10) FIG. 10 illustrates an optional tumbler assembly of the present invention.

(11) FIG. 11 illustrates the tumbler assembly of FIG. 10 shown in an exploded view with a portion of the back plate.

(12) FIG. 12 illustrates a front elevational view of another embodiment of a hasp assembly of the present invention showing an electronic display.

(13) FIG. 13 illustrates a front elevational view of another embodiment of a hasp assembly of the present invention showing an electronic display and electrical contacts to complete a circuit between the display's processor and tags installed in the hasp assembly.

(14) FIG. 14 illustrates an embodiment of a lockout system of the present invention showing a hasp assembly with transceiver circuit, tags with a transmitter circuit, computers, a database, and a wireless network router.

FURTHER EMBODIMENTS

(15) FIG. 15 illustrates a further embodiment of a lockout system of the present invention showing an alternative hasp assembly with slots for tags on the front and back of the system.

(16) FIG. 15a illustrates an embodiment of a lockout system with slots for tags on the front and back of the system, in a closed position with tags, requiring at least one padlock to remain in a locked position.

(17) FIG. 15b illustrates an embodiment of a lockout system of the present invention, with slots for tags on the left and right, requiring at least one padlock to remain in a locked position.

(18) FIG. 15c illustrates an embodiment of a lockout system of the present invention in an open position, having a reduced device area, with slots for tags on the left, requiring at least one padlock to remain in a locked position.

(19) FIG. 16 illustrates the lockout system of FIG. 15 in an open position showing multiple tag locations along the front and back.

(20) FIG. 17 illustrates another embodiment of a lockout system of the present invention having a hasp assembly of the present invention showing an electronic display; user input button; and battery cover.

(21) FIG. 18 illustrates the lockout system of FIG. 17 in an open position, the first hasp portion rotated with respect to the second hasp portion about the pivoting connection which houses the electronic components.

(22) FIG. 19 illustrates the front perspective view of the first hasp portion of the lockout system of FIG. 17.

(23) FIG. 20 illustrates the rear perspective view of the first hasp portion of the lockout system of FIG. 17.

(24) FIG. 21 illustrates the front perspective view of the second hasp portion of the lockout system of FIG. 17 with electronic components in place.

(25) FIG. 22 illustrates the rear perspective view of the second hasp portion of the lockout system of FIG. 17.

(26) FIG. 23 illustrates an exploded partial front perspective view of the lockout system of FIG. 17, focusing on the pivoting connection housing the electronic components.

(27) FIG. 24 illustrates an exploded partial rear perspective view of the lockout system of FIG. 17, again focusing on the pivoting connection housing the electronic components.

(28) FIGS. 25-25C illustrate various components of the electrical components of FIG. 17.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

(29) Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are illustrated in the following figures. FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a lockout system 100 of the present invention that includes a lockable hasp assembly left side 102 and a plurality of tags 104 that can be independently received by and removed from hasp assembly 100.

(30) One embodiment of lockout system 100 has a left side of hasp assembly body 102 and right side of hasp assembly body 103. The lockout system 100 includes a back plate 106 and a front plate 108 attached to the back plate 106. A locking bar 110 is slidable between back plate 106 and front plate 108. A completed hasp 112 is attached to the assembly body and includes a first hasp jaw 114 and a second hasp jaw 116 operable between an open position and a closed position in response to movement of the locking bar 110 from an unlocked position to a locked position, respectively.

(31) As discussed in more detail below, locking bar 110 in one embodiment slides along body portions 102, 103 in engagement with second hasp jaw 116, thereby causing second hasp jaw 116 to pivot or move relative to first hasp jaw 114 to open or close hasp 112. Lockout system 100 of FIG. 4 is shown with hasp 112 and locking bar 110 in the closed position with tags 104 received in body portions 102, 103 and with tag openings 105 aligned with lock openings 124 in body 103. In this condition, a padlock 109 or the like may be installed through tag(s) 104 and body portions 102, 103 to prevent removal of tag(s) 104. Accordingly, lockout system 100 is secured in the closed position until all tags 104 have been removed from hasp assembly 100. As illustrated, hasp assembly 100 is constructed to receive up to eight tags 104; however, each hasp assembly 100 may have more or fewer slots 118.

(32) In some embodiments, the hasp assembly 100 optionally includes an adjustable tumbler assembly 120 useful to communicate a lockout date or other information to the user. Tumbler assembly 120 is discussed in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11.

(33) Each body portion 102, 103 defines a plurality of channels or tag slots 118, each of which is sized and shaped to slidingly receive one tag 104. As shown in FIG. 4, tag slots 118 are channels machined or formed into back plate 106, where tag slots 118 extend horizontally along body 103 when hasp 112 is positioned at the top of lockout system 100. Front plate 108 is attached to back plate 106 to partially close tag slots 118 and prevent removal of tags 104 except by sliding along back plate 106 in a direction away from locking bar 110.

(34) In some embodiments, tag slots 118 may be formed with an overhang, rail, or other feature that engages each tag 104 and requires installation and removal of tags 104 only by sliding tags 104 along tag slots 118 towards or away from locking bar 110. In such an embodiment, front plate 108 may be optional since it is not needed to retain tags 104 in tag slots 118. Similarly, back plate 106 may be formed with features that engage locking bar 110 to permit it to slide along back plate 106 towards or away from hasp 112, yet without being removed from back plate 106.

(35) When tags 104 are installed fully into tag slot 118 and into recess 122 of locking bar 110, each tag opening 105 aligns with lock opening 124 in back plate 106. Each lock opening 124 may also extend through front plate 108 depending on the location of lock opening 124 and geometry of front plate 108, if present. Each slot 106 intersects a path of locking bar 110, which slides along back plate 106 to operate hasp 112 between an open position and a closed position.

(36) In the closed position shown in FIG. 4, upper end 110a of locking bar 110 abuts or is closely adjacent a base portion 116a of second hasp jaw 116, thereby providing a physical barrier that prevents its rotation about fastener 116b. When one or more tags 104 are installed in tag slots 118 and extend into recesses 122 of locking bar 110, tag(s) 104 intersect the sliding path of locking bar 110 towards or away from hasp 112 to lock the position of locking bar 110. However, to permit tags 104 to engage recesses 122, locking bar 110 must be in the closed position so that tag slots 118 and recesses 122 align and allow tag(s) 104 to extend into recesses 122. Thus, when one or more tags 104 are inserted into tag slots 118 with locking bar 110 in the closed position, locking bar 110 and second hasp jaw 116 are prevented from moving out of the closed position. A padlock 109 is installed through tag opening 105 and lock opening 124 of one of the tags 104 to secure the tag 104 in hasp assembly 100.

(37) Referring now to FIG. 5, lockout system 100 is shown with tags 104 removed from body 103, locking bar 110 moved away from hasp 112 to the unlocked position, and second hasp jaw 116 pivoted about fastener 116b to the open position. In doing so, base portion 116a of second hasp jaw 116 engages upper end 110a of locking bar 110 and forces it to slide away (e.g., downward) from hasp 112. In the open position, recesses 122 of locking bar 110 are not aligned with tag slots 118. Therefore, tags 104 cannot be inserted into slots 118 to align tag openings 105 with lock openings 124. The user must move the locking bar 110 to the locked position (shown in FIG. 4) with recesses 122 aligned with slots 118 in order to install tags 104 and attach a padlock 109 (shown in FIG. 4).

(38) In one embodiment, locking bar 110 is spring-biased towards the locked position. Therefore, when second hasp jaw 116 is moved to the closed position, the spring force moves locking bar 110 to the closed position with recesses 122 aligned with tag slots 118 in back plate 106. In other embodiments, locking bar 110 is spring-biased towards the unlocked position.

(39) Referring now to FIGS. 6-9, components of lockout system 100 are shown in a perspective, exploded diagram. One embodiment of back plate 106 is shown in of FIG. 6 with a vertical orientation as is typical during use. As noted above, back plate 106 defines a plurality of tag slots 118 extending in a horizontal direction across front face 106a of back plate 106. In one embodiment, tag slots 118 extend from a back plate edge 106b towards a back plate centerline 106c. Tag slots 118 may extend from one or both back plate edges 106b towards back plate centerline 106c. Tag slots 118 opposite each other of back plate centerline 106c may align with each other or may be vertically offset. In any case, all tag slots 118 are positioned to align with recesses 122 of locking bar 110 when locking bar 110 is in the locked position.

(40) To receive locking bar 110, back plate 106 also defines a locking bar slot 119 extending transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to tag slots 118. In one embodiment, locking bar slot 119 extends along back plate centerline 106c and is perpendicular to tag slots 118. In one embodiment, locking bar slot 119 and tag slots 118 are co-planar on back plate, but this is not required. For example, locking bar slot 119 and tag slots 118 may be formed to different depths in front face 106a to accommodate tags 104 and locking bar 110 between back plate 106 and front plate 108 of when tags 104 and locking bar 110 have different thicknesses.

(41) First hasp jaw 114 is secured to or formed with upper end portion 106d of back plate 106 with first hasp jaw 114 extending away from upper end portion 106d to define a portion of a closed loop. A pivoting connection 168 is made when a mounting hole 124 through upper end portion 106d of back plate 106 is used to rotatably secure second hasp jaw 116, such as by a screw, rivet, or other fastener 116b configured to allow second hasp jaw 116 to rotate about mounting hole 124. Second hasp jaw 116 is mounted to back plate 106 to overlap or otherwise align with first hasp jaw 114 to complete and define a closed loop when second hasp jaw 116 is in in the closed position.

(42) Lower end portion 106e of back plate 106 defines a lower recessed area 128 that receives lower end 110c of locking bar 110. In one embodiment, lower recessed area includes one or more springs 126 or other biasing device 126 positioned between lower end portion 110c of locking bar 110 and bottom end 106f of back plate 106 to bias locking bar 110 towards the locked position. For example, lower recessed area 128 defines one or more spring recesses 129 that partially receive springs 126.

(43) FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of locking bar 110. In this embodiment, locking bar 110 has upper end 110a to engage base portion 116a of second hasp jaw 116 and extends along locking bar body 110b to a lower end 110c. Notches or recesses 122 extend transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) into locking bar body 110b. Each recess 122 is shaped and sized to receive an end portion of tag 104. Recesses 122 correspond to and align with respective channels 118 in back plate 106 when locking bar 110 is in the closed position. In some embodiments, upper end 110a of locking bar 110 and second jaw 116 are one piece, where first hasp jaw 114, receives part of second hasp jaw 116 or otherwise interfaces with second hasp jaw 116 when hasp 112 is in the closed position. For example, second hasp jaw 116 is formed with or fixedly attached to locking bar 110, where sliding movement from the unlocked position to the locked position closes hasp 112.

(44) In some embodiments, lower end portion 110b of locking bar 110 defines a frame 131 around tumbler opening 130 and includes a tumbler locking edge 132. In one embodiment, tumbler locking edge 132 of frame 131 faces towards upper end 110a and is sized to fit into and engage slots 170 in tumblers 154 (discussed below) when locking bar 110 is moved to the locked position. Thus, when locking bar 110 is in the unlocked position, the user may manipulate tumblers 154 to a desired position. When locking bar 110 is moved to the locked position, tumbler locking edge 132 engages tumbler slots 170 to lock the tumblers 154 in the position set by the user. Optionally, lower end 110c of locking bar 110 defines one or more locking bar spring recesses 134 to receive spring(s) 126, which may also be received partially by spring recesses 129 in back plate 106.

(45) In other embodiments, frame 131 is a separate component from locking bar 110, where locking bar 110 engages frame 131 and pushes it towards bottom end 106f when locking bar 110 is moved to the unlocked position. When tumbler locking edge 132 does not engage slots 170, tumblers 154 are permitted to rotate and therefore can be set as desired by a user.

(46) FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of a set of four tags 104. Each tag 104 extends longitudinally from a first tag end 104a to a second tag end 104b and defines a tag opening 105. In one embodiment, tag 104 generally is a flat bar with a rectangular cross-sectional shape. Other geometries are acceptable, such as cylindrical, domed, or other shapes. In one embodiment, first tag end 104a is rectangular to mate with a rectangular notch or recess 122 in locking bar. In one embodiment, second tag end 104b is rounded for comfort and ease of use. Other shapes for first tag end 104a and second tag end 104b are acceptable. Each tag identifier 104e is useful, for example, to identify the name, department, and phone number of the worker locking out the equipment.

(47) In some embodiments, tag 104 defines a ledge, groove, shelf or other feature (not shown) along one or both of sides 104c, 104d to engage a corresponding mating feature of slot 118. For example, when slot 118 includes overhangs, tag 104 has a shelf or protrusion along sides 104c, 104d that fits below and slides within the space between the overhang and back plate 106 to maintain tag 104 in slot 118. Similarly, tag 104 and slot 118 may engage each other using a tongue and groove or other mating structure on the respective parts.

(48) FIG. 9 illustrates one embodiment of front plate 108. Front plate 108 is sized and shaped to generally overlap and align with all or most of back plate 106, however, this is not required. When slot 118 and tag 104 lack mating structures, front plate 108 is constructed to cover and close all or part of slots 118 and locking bar slot 119 to maintain tags 104 and locking bar 110 together with back plate 106. For example, when front plate 108 is a solid metal plate except for fastener openings 135, it extends fully across back plate 106 and aligns with edges 106b. When front plate 108 covers lock openings 124 in back plate 106, front plate 108 defines front plate lock openings 139 that correspond to lock openings 124.

(49) In one embodiment, front plate 108 defines and frames an open region 140 that allows the user to see the position of locking bar 110 and names or other identification on tags 104. Optionally, open region 140 includes a transparent pane 142 of plastic, glass, or other material that restricts access to locking bar 110 and tags 104 yet allows their position or identification to be visible to the user. In embodiments where system 100 includes tumblers 154, front plate 108 defines a tumbler opening 144 sized and located to enable the user to manipulate and view the tumblers 154. Front plate 108 may be secured to back plate 106 using fasteners, welding, clips, or other means.

(50) Turning now to FIG. 10, a perspective view illustrates one embodiment of optional tumbler assembly 150 in assembled form. Tumbler assembly 150 includes axle 152, a plurality of tumblers 154 mounted on and rotatable about axle 152, a resistance pad 156 for engaging tumblers 154, and a cover 158. These components are discussed below in more detail with reference to FIG. 11.

(51) FIG. 11 is an exploded, perspective view showing components of tumbler assembly 150 and lower end portion 106e of back plate 106. In embodiments including tumbler assembly 150, lower recessed area 128 of back plate 106 defines a first axle recess 160 and a second axle recess 162 on opposite lateral edges of a back-plate tumbler opening 164. In one embodiment, tumbler opening 164 is positioned roughly at the center of lower recessed area 128 and permits tumblers 154 to extend through back plate 106 for manipulation by the user. Other positions are acceptable depending on the geometry of frame 131, locking bar 110, and other components.

(52) Axle 152 has a cylindrical axle body 152c with optional flats 152a, 152b, machined into each axle end portion 152d, 152e, respectively. Axle end portions 152d, 152e are received in first and second axle recesses 160, 162, respectively, with flats 152a, 152b flush with or slightly below the surface of lower recessed area 128. Flats 152a, 152b prevent axle 152 from rotating with tumblers 154. Alternately, axle recesses 160, 162 can be machined to a depth that eliminates the need for flats 152a, 152b.

(53) Vertically above and immediately adjacent back plate tumbler opening 164 is a resistance pad recess 166. Resistance pad recess 166 is sized and shaped to receive resistance pad 156 with front face 156a substantially flush with lower recessed area 128 and with a narrowed edge 156c of resistance pad 156 extending beyond resistance pad recess 166 to extend into and engage slots 170 of tumblers 154 as shown in FIG. 10. In one embodiment, resistance pad 156 is a substantially rectangular sheet of rubber or other resilient material. Resistance pad 156 has tapered/narrowed edge 156c extending toward tumblers 154 and defining a sloped surface 156c. Sloped surface 156c is angled at about 45° to front face 156a and faces downward and rearward. Thus, when narrowed edge 156c engages slots 170 of tumblers 154, tumblers 154 more freely rotate in a direction 172 cooperating with sloped surface 156d as compared to impeded rotation when rotating opposite of direction 172.

(54) In another embodiment, resistance pad 156 is replaced with a spring-biased bar with rounded ball pins. The ball pins are biased to engage the tumblers and encourage the tumblers to occupy positions where slots 170 align with the ball pins.

(55) Tumblers 154 are generally cylindrical and have a central opening 154a sized to receive axle 152 therethrough. Each tumbler 154 has a plurality of tumbler faces 154b evenly spaced circumferentially around tumbler 154 and separated by slots 170. In one embodiment, slots 170 are angled consistently with sloped surface 156d to accentuate ease of rotation in direction 172 and resistance to rotation opposite of direction 172.

(56) Tumbler cover 158 attaches to front plate 108 when assembled as shown, for example, in FIG. 5. Tumbler cover 158 defines a view opening 174 that aligns with a row of tumbler faces 154b. Thus, when the user manipulates tumblers 154 to identify a date, a name, or other information on tumbler faces 154b, that information is visible through view opening 174.

(57) Electronic Display

(58) Referring now to FIGS. 12-14, other embodiments of lockout system 100 according to the present invention includes an electronic display 180 instead of tumbler assembly 150. Preferably, the electronic display 180 includes a processor 190 with data storage capability. In one embodiment, electronic display 180 shows the date when hasp assembly 100 was placed into the locked position or other information relevant to the locked-out energy source. Electronic display 180 in some embodiments receives an identifier associated with each tag 104 installed into hasp assembly 100. Electronic display also records the date when each tag 104 was installed and/or removed. In some embodiments, electronic display 180 allows the user(s) to input a date, identifier, name, work code, or other information. In some embodiments, a user may use a user-input device 185, such as a keypad or touch screen to access and view data stored in electronic display 180 and to determine who locked out the equipment and date of doing so.

(59) In one embodiment, for example, the electronic display 180 is converted from an unlocked display condition to a locked display condition when the locking bar 110 is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position, respectively. In doing so, the locking bar 110 engages or disengages a switch, electrical contact, button, or the like on the electronic display 180 to cause the electronic display 180 to change condition. When the locking bar 110 is in the unlocked position, for example, a protrusion 182 on locking bar 110 disengages from a contact 184 or the like on electronic display 180, thereby changing electronic display 180 to the unlocked display condition. When unlocked, a user may input a date or other information relevant to the use of the lockout system 100. When locking bar 110 is moved to the locked position, protrusion 182 engages contact 184 and electronic display 180 is changed to the locked display condition and a user may not input new data or change entered data.

(60) When one or more tags 104 are installed in hasp assembly 100, the processor 190 of electronic display 180 receives and records the identifier associated with each tag 104 and the date each tag 104 was installed. Other information may optionally be stored, such as the slot number on the hasp assembly 100, a code identifying work to be performed, a tag removal date, an identifier for the work to be performed, and other similar information. Optionally, when locking bar 110 is moved to the unlocked position, the data received from each tag 104 installed in the hasp assembly 100 are stored in a history file that includes information such as the identifier associated with each tag 104 installed in the hasp assembly 100, the date each tag 104 is installed in hasp assembly 100, and the date removed from hasp assembly 100. In some embodiments, electronic display 180 is programmable to collect and store information as desired or suitable. As such, electronic display 180 may include a keypad 185 or other data entry mechanism.

(61) Referring now to FIG. 13, another embodiment of lockout system 100 is illustrated with hasp assembly 100 and a plurality of tags 104. In this embodiment, each tag 104 is configured and constructed to communicate with processor 190 in hasp assembly 100. As shown, processor 190 is part of electronic display 180; however, processor 190 is not necessarily part of electronic display 180. When hasp assembly 100 includes electronic display 180, processor 190 may be part of or coupled to electronic display 180.

(62) In one embodiment, for example, contacts 186 on the tag 104 engage contacts 188 in a tag slot 118 on the hasp assembly 100 when tag 104 is installed in hasp assembly 100. Each tag 104 may be coded with a worker identifier, contact information, and other relevant information. When each tag 104 is installed in a tag slot 118, a circuit is completed and the processor 190 receives the data associated with each tag 104. For example, processor 190 receives and displays the worker's identity and a date the tag 104 was installed in the hasp assembly 100. Optionally, the processor 190 includes a transceiver 200 for communicating wirelessly with a computer 240 and database 245 (shown in FIG. 14). With such a system, for example, each hasp assembly 100 communicates to the computer 240 the data received by processor 190 from each tag 104 as well as information determined by or stored in processor 190, such as a date or hasp identifier.

(63) Bluetooth Connective Systems

(64) Referring now to FIG. 14, yet another embodiment of lockout system 100 is illustrated with hasp assembly 100, a plurality of tags 104, a wireless network router 250, and a plurality of computers 240. Hasp assembly 100 communicates with tags 104 wirelessly or by a circuit formed when tags 104 are installed in the hasp assembly 100. Hasp assembly 100 communicates with data base 245 and computers 240 using wireless router 250.

(65) In one embodiment, each tag 104 is equipped with a transmitter 204 and hasp assembly 100 is equipped with a transceiver 200, where the transmitter 204 is configured to respond to a radio frequency signal transmitted by transceiver 200, such as a data request. In some embodiments, transmitters 204 are passive: each transmitter 204 powers up and sends a reply signal after receiving a query from the transceiver 200. The reply signal from tag 104 contains a tag identifier or other data that is received by the transceiver 200. In other embodiments, transmitters 204 are active and periodically transmit a signal containing the tag identifier. Regardless of whether tag 104 communicates with hasp assembly 100 using wireless or wired means, when a tag 104 is installed in the hasp assembly 100, transmitter 204 of the tag 104 communicates with transceiver 200 in the hasp assembly 100. In doing so, the hasp assembly 100 recognizes the presence of one or more tags 104 installed in tag slots 118 of the hasp assembly 100. Hasp assembly 100 may record and display the information on the hasp assembly 100 only, or may communicate the information to database 245.

(66) In some embodiments, transceiver 200 is configured to communicate wirelessly with database 245 and/or one or more computers 240, such as via a wireless network of the Internet. Each computer 240 may be a general-purpose desktop computer, a tablet computer, a smart phone, a data logger, or other electronic device configured to display status indicators of lockout system 100. In one embodiment, transceiver 200 communicates with computers 240 using a local area network with a wireless internet router 250.

(67) In some embodiments, transmitter 204 and transceiver 200 are configured to communicate using an electromagnetic field with a frequency of 120 KHz to 140 KHz. Frequencies of 125 KHz, for example, have been found to be better suited due to reduced interference from metal objects. In other embodiments, the electromagnetic field has a frequency of 13.56 MHz, 900 MHz, 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, or other frequency suitable for the range, antenna size, and environment where lockout system 100 will be used. In some embodiments, communication between tag 104 and transceiver 200 uses a first frequency of 120 KHz to 140 KHz while communication between transceiver 200 and computer 240 uses a second frequency that is different from the first frequency, such as 2.4 GHz.

(68) In one embodiment, each computer 240 and each hasp assembly 100 wirelessly communicate with database 245. The database 245 may be maintained in one or more computer 240 or at some other location accessible by each computer 240 in system 100, such as “the cloud” or a remote location. In one embodiment, database 245 acts as the master data storage location for all hasp assemblies 102 in lockout system 100. Database 245 is preferably updated in real time when a change occurs at any of the hasp assemblies 102 and stores information for each hasp assembly 100. Periodic updates are also acceptable, either by a data push from hasp assemblies 102 or a data pull from database 245. A condition change at any hasp assembly 100 includes a change in tags 104 installed in hasp assembly 100, a change between locked and unlocked status of the hasp assembly 100, change of a date for end-of-work, and the like. Using the database 245 that is distinct from hasp assemblies 102 reduces the computing requirements and power requirements for each hasp assembly 100.

(69) By viewing the data on a computer 240, such as tablet computers 240a carried by management and supervisors or desktop computers 240b in an office, the management is informed of the current lockout status of each energy source without having to visit each worksites throughout the facility. As noted above, for example, each computer 240, database 245, and each hasp assembly 100 communicate using a wireless internet router 250. Data 104f communicated from the hasp assembly 100 may include a unique tag ID, an energy source identifier, a worker identifier, a lockout date, a tag installation date, a tag removal date, and/or a lockout status identifier. For example, for each energy source identified as locked-out, computer(s) 240 display the identity of the worker(s) who have locked out the energy source, the dates each tag 104 was installed in the hasp assembly 100, and other information 104f as deemed appropriate. Further, by communication between each hasp assembly 100, database 245, and computer(s) 240, management and workers may be able to determine the location of each hasp assembly 100, whether in use or not, thereby preventing loss of hasp assemblies.

(70) Lockout system 100 with embodiments of hasp assemblies 102 and tags 104 discussed herein is used to lockout one or more piece of equipment or energy source. After placing hasp 112 in the open position, hasp 112 is attached through an opening on a switch, valve, control panel, or other control tied to the energy source. After closing the hasp 112 and moving the locking bar 110 to the locked position, each user performing work on the energy source may independently install his/her tag 104 into an open slot 118 of hasp assembly 100. The user then locks the tag 104 into the hasp assembly 100 with a padlock 109 or other secure device placed through tag opening 105 and lock opening 124.

(71) Depending on the embodiments of hasp assemblies 102 and tags 104, lockout system 100 may be used to facilitate compliance with lockout/tagout protocol and manage locked energy sources at a facility.

(72) Alternative Lock Out Devices

(73) Further embodiments of the present invention will now be discussed with reference to FIGS. 15-24. As the majority of the structural and functional features of these embodiments are similar to those previously discussed, only the distinctions will be emphasized in detail here. As before, channels 118, 122 in the first and second body portions 102, 103 of the lockout system 100, accept ID “IDENTIFICATION” tabs 104 that prevent the hasp jaws 114, 116 from opening. In some embodiments though, the number of slots 118 are doubled from previous embodiments by providing slots 118 along the front and rear of the main body portions 102, 103.

(74) Referring to at least FIGS. 15-18, 21, and 22, the first body portion 102 is integral with the right-side portions of the back plate 106, locking bar 110, and front plate 108, and the first hasp jaw 116. With these embodiments, the second body portion 103 is also similarly integral with the left-side portions of the back plate 106, locking bar 110, and front plate 108, and the second hasp jaw 114.

(75) As before, slots 118 along the back-plate portion 106 correspond with recesses 122 of the locking bar portion 110 which correspond to a shape of the tag 104. Each channel slot 118 on the hasp body 102, 103 meets an additional corresponding hole 124 that is in a fixed position to align with the hole 105 on the ID tab 104. The slots 118 extend horizontally, while each of the corresponding holes 124 extend laterally. Two tabs 104 can then be inserted in horizontally adjacent slots 118 by slightly offsetting their inward facing positions laterally such that each of the two adjacent tabs 104 has a single channel 105 interlocking with adjacent dual front and rear channels 124. The axis of the rotating point 168 extends laterally and parallel to the padlock holes 124, 105 to prevent rotation of the body 102, 103 while the padlock is locked.

(76) Increased Tag Support Per Device

(77) One of the shared features for several of the models in FIGS. 15-24 is an overall increase in the number of tags per device area. With earlier models as, for example, in FIGS. 3-9, the overall lockout device 100 is capable of fitting at most eight tags 104, and the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3-9 have a basic overall size of 10-14 inches long, and 4-5 inches wide for a device area of between 40-70 square inches (in.sup.2). This provides an average tag capacity of one tag per 5-9 square inches (in.sup.2) of device area.

(78) The models in FIGS. 15-24 show a slight rearrangement of parts as illustrated in order to provide an overall increase in the number of tags per device area to at least an average tag capacity of one tag per 2-5 square inches (in.sup.2) of device area. That is, in the embodiments having this increased tag capacity, the overall sizes are between 6-14 inches long, and 2-5 inches wide, for an overall range of device area of 12-70 square inches (in.sup.2); while each has a capacity between 6-12 tags 104. For example, the embodiment in FIG. 15b is slightly wider of approximately 5 inches, but by providing an alternating attachment and securing profile by providing the rotating point 168 at a half way point and eliminating the electronic display, the overall length has been greatly reduced, so that even when including the lengths of the hasp jaws 114, 116, the length of the lock out device 100 still enables a reduced overall device area of approximately 40 square inches. Then, as this embodiment has the capacity for at least twelve tags 104, the average tag capacity of approximately one tag per 3 square inches.

(79) Restated in ratio form then, the embodiments in FIGS. 15-24 have at least an average tag capacity to device area ratio of 1:5, where the device area is in square inches.

(80) The tags 104 often have tag identifiers in the form of the electronic display 180 (see, e.g., FIGS. 17, 18), capable of displaying information either by permanent written format or by alterable electronic format, such as the authorized user's Name, Title, Department, and phone number. In some embodiments, the hasp assembly 100 will accept ten ID tags 104 by providing increased capacity in the front and back: five tags 104 along the first body half 103 front side, and five tags 104 along the second body half 102 front side.

(81) Alternative Pivoting Connections

(82) As with other embodiments, the pivoting connection 168 rotatably secures a first hasp jaw 114 to a second hasp jaw 116. In these embodiments though, a first hasp jaw 114 is integral with the first hasp body half 103 and the second hasp jaw 116 is integral with the second hasp body half 102, so that the first hasp body half 103 rotates with respect to the second hasp body half 102.

(83) The alternative pivoting connections in these embodiments address potential issues with earlier embodiments. Specifically, one weakness of other models is the tensile strength of the hasp jaw and the singular point of connection with the hasp jaw to the main body of the of lockout system. By integrating the main body portions with first and second hasp portions, the overall strength of the lockout system is improved. Further an advantageous feature of these embodiments, by integrating a first hasp jaw with a first hasp body portion which comprises slots for tags; and a second hasp jaw with a second hasp portion which comprises slots for tags, a single defective pivoting connection will not prove sufficient to enable access to the energy source being protected against interference.

(84) For example, in FIG. 15, each tag interacts not only with the slot provided in the main body portion, but due to the integration of that body portion with the hasp jaw, provides an additional security measure against inappropriate tampering against opening the first and second hasp jaws.

(85) The placement of the pivoting connection 168 in these embodiments may vary. In FIG. 15A the pivoting connection 168 is positioned along the hasp jaw. In FIG. 15b the pivoting connection 168 is positioned half-way between main body portions both lengthwise and widthwise. In FIG. 15c, the pivoting connection 168 is positioned at a bottom right hand corner, and in FIGS. 15, 16-24, the pivoting connection 168 is positioned opposite the hasp jaw. In the embodiment in FIGS. 17-24, the pivoting connection 168 is formed when a tongue of the first hasp body half 103 snaps into a groove along the second hasp body half 102, permanently locking the two hasp body halves 103, 102 together. The tongue slidingly engages the groove of the radius of the connecting parts of the hasp so that it can open and close. A slight offset is illustrated in FIG. 21, showing the hasp body 102 and a single tag 104.

(86) In some embodiments, the PCB assembly is housed entirely inside the connecting radii of the two halves. The first hasp body half 103 is dimensioned with a first cavity to internally house a PCB assembly 181 having electronics, such as the electronic display 180, processor 190, transceiver 200, transmitter 204, and circuit board. Four posts along the back side have notches which go through the four associated mounting holes 135 at each corner of the circuit board 210 and snap the PCB assembly 181 in place. Alternatively, these posts could be hollow and accept mating screws for securing the PCB assembly 181 in reversible manner.

(87) The first body half 103 is also dimensioned with a window to view the electronic display 180 on the exterior front half 106a of the hasp 103. A second cavity is centered underneath the display 180 and dimensioned to accept the control button 185 of the PCB assembly 181 that controls the output of the display 180.

(88) Directional Terms

(89) General directional terms employed throughout the description of the figures include the terms: horizontal, vertical, and lateral. Horizontal generally having the meaning of being in a position or direction at right angles to the vertical and lateral directions; generally parallel to ground level; also associated with movement or direction along the x-axis. Vertical generally having the meaning of being in a position or direction perpendicular to the plane of the horizon; generally at right angles to the horizontal and lateral directions; also associated with movement or direction along the y-axis. Lateral generally having the meaning of being in a position or direction at right angles to the vertical and horizontal directions; generally parallel to ground level; also associated with movement or direction along the z-axis.

(90) Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described herein, the above description is merely illustrative. Further modification of the invention herein disclosed will occur to those skilled in the respective arts and all such modifications are deemed to be within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

REFERENCE NUMBERS

(91) Provided below is a listing of the elements of the present invention and their associated reference numbers which have been adhered to within the present specification and the associated drawings.

(92) TABLE-US-00001 lockout system 100 hasp assembly body 102, 103 plurality of tags 104 tag ends, sides 104a-d tag identifier 104e identifying information 104f tag opening 105 back plate 106 front face 106a edges 106b centerline 106c end portions 106d, 106e bottom end 106f back side 106g front plate 108 padlock 109 locking bar 110 end portion(s) 110a, 110b, 110c hasp 112 hasp jaw(s) 114, 116 base portion 116a fastener 116b second channel portion/slots 118 locking bar slot 119 adjustable tumbler assembly 120 first channel portion/recess 122 lock openings 124 springs/biasing device 126 lower recessed area 128 spring recesses 129 tumbler opening 130 frame 131 tumbler locking edge 132 bar spring recesses 134 fastener openings 135 plate lock openings 139 open region 140 transparent pane 142 tumbler opening 144 tumbler assembly 150 axle 152 tumblers 154 resistance pad 156 cover 158 first axle recess 160 second axle recess 162 back-plate tumbler opening 164 resistance pad recess 166 pivoting connection 168 slots 170 posts 171 first direction 172 view opening 174 electronic display 180 protrusion 182 contact(s) 184, 186, 188 user-input device 185 battery cover 189 processor 190 transceiver 200 transmitter 204 computer 240 database 245 wireless network router 250