Explosion proof assembly

An explosion proof assembly that includes a first portion with a window; an outer touchscreen adhesively sealed around a perimeter of a first portion rear face; and a second portion releasably coupled to the first portion. The second portion has a second portion inner surface defined by a second portion inner edge that transitions into a second portion dissipation wall. The second portion has a second portion window sealed off by a rear element sealingly engaged around a perimeter of a second portion shoulder surface. The assembly includes a mobile device operable via a mobile device touchscreen. Upon assembly, the outer touchscreen is transmissive to the mobile device touchscreen, and the rear element is inductive to an electromagnetic signal.

Not Applicable.

BACKGROUND

Background of the Disclosure

The use of electrical devices in hazardous areas may lead to an increased risk of a fire or explosion triggered by the presence of the electrical device. For instance, an electrical device may serve as an ignition source in a hazardous area containing flammable gasses, vapors or dust. For this reason, electrical devices used in hazardous areas are often required to be certified according to the requirements specified in that particular jurisdiction. Further, often the types of protections required vary depending on the risks and hazards involved.

Hazardous environments have been categorized and regulated, but the specific classification, regulating, and governing thereof depends on jurisdiction. Electrical codes and standards for hazardous areas are generally understood as having two distinct paths. In North America, a ‘Class, Division’ system has been utilized, whereas other parts of the world use a ‘Zone System’ based predominantly on standards from the International Eletrochemical Commission (IEC) and European Community for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC). A main difference is in the Zone system is that the level of hazard probability is divided into three ‘zones’ as opposed to two ‘divisions’

The types of hazardous environments are broken down into three classes, with each class focusing on different types of hazardous materials in the surrounding atmosphere. For instance: Class I areas include flammable gasses or vapors present in the air in sufficient quantities to produce an explosion in the presence of an ignition source; Class II areas include the presence of combustible dusts; and Class III areas include ignitable fibers or other materials too heavy to be suspended in the air in sufficient quantities to produce an ignitable mixture (e.g., wood chips, cotton, nylon, etc.).

Two common types of hazardous areas requiring protection for electrical devices are areas that contain flammable vapors and areas containing dust or other particulates susceptible to ignition. Further, each class is divided into two divisions based on the probability of hazardous materials being present in an ignitable or combustible concentration in the surrounding air. Division 1 defines hazardous environments where the pertinent hazardous material (e.g., vapors, dust, fibers) is present during normal conditions. Division 2 defines hazardous environments where the pertinent hazardous material is present only in abnormal or fault conditions (e.g., in the event of a container failure or other leak).

Regarding Class I hazardous environments involving flammable vapors, an electrical device may be used in such an area via an explosion proof enclosure or assembly configured to keep an internal explosion within the explosion proof enclosure from escaping outward, where it would ignite vapors outside of the enclosure. Thus, with regard to environments having flammable vapors, explosion proof assemblies are designed to both reduce the entry of flammable materials into the enclosure and also, in the event of an explosion within the enclosure, to prevent the escape of hot or burning material from escaping the enclosure.

Regarding Class II hazardous environments involving ignitable dusts and particulates, an electrical device may be used in such an area via a dust-ignition proof enclosure or assembly that is configured to prevent ignitable materials from entering the enclosure and by containing any arcs, sparks or heat within the enclosure that may ignite dust or other particulates in the surrounding environment. Also, there exists assemblies and enclosures for use with an electrical device that are referred to as “intrinsically safe,” where an intrinsically safe assembly including an electrical device is incapable of releasing sufficient electrical or thermal energy to cause ignition of a specific hazardous substance (i.e., Class I, Class II and Class III substances) under normal or abnormal conditions. Further, “non-incendive” components are non-sparking and can be used in Div1, Zone1 areas when coupled with explosion proof enclosure.

While assemblies or enclosures have been developed for use in hazardous areas, these components are often expensive and not configured for use with particular electrical devices. Also, these components may only satisfy the requirements for a particular class and division, and thus may not be used in other hazardous environments or in hazardous environments under abnormal conditions (i.e., Division 2 conditions). Further, these components may be permanently coupled to the protected electrical device, restricting the use of multiple electrical devices with the same enclosure. Thus, there is a need in the art for an intrinsically safe or explosion proof assembly and/or enclosure capable of being safely used in varying types of conditions hazardous environments. Also, it would be beneficial if such an enclosure was not permanently coupled to or formed integrally with the protected electrical device, allowing the use of different electrical devices with the same enclosure.

It should be noted that standards differ depending on what part of the world a user is in. It is desirous to have an explosion proof assembly for a mobile device capable of meeting stringent ATEX/IECEx (International Electrotechnical Commission) for zones 1 and 2, in addition to North America Class 1, Divisions 1 and 2 for safe operation around hazardous gas, vapor and dust-based atmospheres. This means any such assembly should be able to meet the most difficult part of any specification, which may be different by way of example each of ATEX, IECEx, and NA.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the disclosure pertain to an explosion proof assembly that may include first portion having one or more of: a first portion rear face; a first portion outer edge; a first portion inner edge; a first dissipation wall; an isolator receptacle; at least one pin housing receptacle; a corresponding pin that may be movingly disposed through the at least one pin housing receptacle; a sound material receptacle; and a window.

The assembly may include an outer touchscreen may be adhesively sealed around a perimeter of the first portion rear face. The outer touchscreen may resultantly occlude, or otherwise seal off, block, close etc. the window.

The assembly may include a second portion having one or more of: a second portion inner surface that may be defined by a second portion inner edge that transitions into a second dissipation wall; a second portion shoulder; and a second portion window.

The assembly may include a rear element, which may be adhesively sealed around a perimeter of the second portion shoulder. The use of the rear element may resultantly occluding the second portion window.

The assembly may include a mobile device disposed within the first portion and the second portion. The mobile device may be operable via a mobile device touchscreen. The mobile device may include an at least one speaker/microphone.

There may be a sound material plug disposed within the sound material receptacle. The receptacle, and thus the plug, may be proximate to the at least one speaker/microphone. There may be a cover plate coupled with the first portion in a manner to retain the sound material within the sound material receptacle.

In aspects, the first portion and the second portion may be releasably coupled to each other to form an enclosure. In this respect, upon assembly thereof, the outer touchscreen may be engaged with and transmissive to the mobile device touchscreen.

Upon coupling, the second dissipation wall may be adjacent to the first dissipation wall.

The rear element may be inductive to an electrical charge for recharging the mobile device.

The mobile device may include an at least one button. In aspects, the corresponding pin may be aligned with the at least one button. In this respect upon depressing of the corresponding pin may result in depressing the corresponding button.

The mobile device may include an input connector.

The assembly may include an isolator member disposed within the isolator receptacle.

The first portion may include a plurality of first mating apertures, and the second portion comprises a plurality of second mating apertures corresponding to the plurality of first mating apertures, or vice versa. One or more of respective first mating aperture and second mating aperture may have a fastener disposed therein. Any respective fastener may be tightened to a torque value in the range of 5 Newton·meter to about 6 Newton meter.

The mobile device may be configured for taking photos via a camera lens. Thus, either of the first portion and/or the second portion may include a lens window. Upon assembly the camera lens and the lens window may be aligned.

The mobile device is configured for electromagnetic wireless recharging functionality. The mobile device may be recharged while disposed within the enclosure.

The assembly may be configured to at least partially dissipate a flame resultant from an explosion of the mobile device.

The assembly may include other receptacles, such as a second sound material receptacle and a second sound material plug disposed therein.

Any plug may be rectangular prism shape. Any plug material may be stainless steel sintered material. Any plug may have a porosity. In aspects, the porosity may be between about 10 microns to about 30 microns.

Other embodiments of the disclosure pertain to an explosion proof assembly that may include one or more of: a first portion; a second portion releasably coupled therewith to form an enclosure; and a mobile device disposed within the enclosure.

The first portion may include: a first portion rear face; a first portion outer edge; a first portion inner edge; a first dissipation wall; sound material receptacle; and a window.

There may be an outer touchscreen adhesively sealed around a perimeter of the first portion rear face, and resultantly occluding the window.

The second portion may include: a second portion comprising a second portion inner surface defined by a second portion inner edge that transitions into a second dissipation wall; a second portion shoulder; and a second portion window.

There may be a rear element adhesively sealed around a perimeter of the second portion shoulder, and resultantly occluding the second portion window.

The mobile device may be operable via a mobile device touchscreen. The mobile device may have an at least one speaker/microphone.

There may be a sound material disposed within the sound material receptacle in proximity to the at least one speaker/microphone.

The outer touchscreen may be engaged with and transmissive to the mobile device touchscreen.

The rear element may be inductive to an electrical charge for recharging the mobile device.

Other Embodiments of the disclosure pertain to an explosion proof assembly that may include a first portion that may further have a first portion rear face, a first portion outer edge, a first portion inner edge, a second dissipation wall, an isolator housing receptacle, a pin housing receptacle, and a window; an outer touchscreen adhesively sealed around a perimeter of the first portion rear face; a second portion releasably coupled to the first portion, the second portion may further have a second portion inner surface defined by a second portion inner edge that transitions into a first dissipation wall, an isolator housing, and a pin housing.

There may be a first dissipation wall, a second dissipation wall, and a third dissipation wall. The second dissipation wall may be disposed between the first dissipation wall and the third dissipation wall.

The assembly may include a mobile device disposed within the first portion and the second portion. The mobile device may be operable via a mobile device touchscreen. In aspects, the first portion and the second portion may be configured to be releasably coupled to each other. The isolator housing may mate within the isolator housing receptacle. The pin housing may mate within the pin housing receptacle. Upon assembly, the outer touchscreen may be transmissive to the mobile device touchscreen of a touch actuation signal made thereon.

The mobile device may include an input connector. The isolator housing may include an isolator bore. An isolator member may be disposed within the isolator bore.

The mobile device may be configured for taking photos via a camera lens. The second portion may include a lens window. Upon assembly the camera lens and the lens window may be aligned.

The mobile device may include an on-off button. The pin housing may include a movable pin. Upon assembly the movable pin may be aligned with the on-off button. In aspects, depressing of the movable pin may result in depressing the on-off button.

The mobile device may be configured for electromagnetic wireless recharging functionality. The second portion may include a second portion window. A rear window glass may be adhesively sealed therearound to a second portion rear surface, thereby closing off the second portion window.

Upon coupling the assembly may be configured to at least partially dissipate a flame resultant from an explosion of the mobile device.

Other embodiments of the disclosure pertain to an explosion proof assembly that may include a first portion comprising a first portion rear face, a first portion outer edge, a first portion inner edge, a second dissipation wall, an isolator housing receptacle, a pin housing receptacle, and a window; an outer touchscreen adhesively sealed around a perimeter of the first portion rear face; a second portion releasably coupled to the first portion to form an enclosure, the second portion further comprising a second portion inner surface defined by a second portion inner edge that transitions into a first dissipation wall extending substantially therearound, an isolator housing, and a pin housing; a mobile device disposed within the enclosure, the mobile device being operable via a mobile device touchscreen. The isolator housing may mate within the isolator housing receptacle. The pin housing may mate within the pin housing receptacle. Upon coupling the outer touchscreen may be transmissive to the mobile device touchscreen of a touch actuation signal made thereon. The mobile device may include an input connector. The isolator housing may include an isolator bore. An isolator member may be disposed within the isolator bore.

Yet other embodiments of the disclosure pertain to an explosion proof assembly that may include a first portion comprising a first portion rear face, a first portion outer edge, a first portion inner edge, a second dissipation wall, an isolator housing receptacle, a pin housing receptacle, and a window; an outer touchscreen adhesively sealed around a perimeter of the first portion rear face; a second portion releasably coupled to the first portion to form an enclosure, the second portion further comprising a second portion inner surface defined by a second portion inner edge that transitions into an at least first dissipation wall extending substantially therearound, an isolator housing, and a pin housing; a mobile device disposed within the enclosure, the mobile device being operable via a mobile device touchscreen.

These and other embodiments, features and advantages will be apparent in the following detailed description and drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Herein disclosed are novel apparatuses, systems, and methods that pertain to an explosion proof assembly, details of which are described herein.

Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the accompanying Figures. In the following discussion and in the claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are used in an open-ended fashion, such as to mean, for example, “including, but not limited to . . . ”. While the disclosure may be described with reference to relevant apparatuses, systems, and methods, it should be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments shown or described. Rather, one skilled in the art will appreciate that a variety of configurations may be implemented in accordance with embodiments herein.

Although not necessary, like elements in the various figures may be denoted by like reference numerals for consistency and ease of understanding. Numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the disclosure; however, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments disclosed herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily complicating the description. Directional terms, such as “above,” “below,” “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “back,” “right”, “left”, “down”, etc., are used for convenience and to refer to general direction and/or orientation, and are only intended for illustrative purposes only, and not to limit the disclosure.

Connection(s), couplings, or other forms of contact between parts, components, and so forth may include conventional items, such as lubricant, additional sealing materials, such as a gasket between flanges, o-rings, PTFE between threads, and the like. The make and manufacture of any particular component, subcomponent, etc., may be as would be apparent to one of skill in the art, such as molding, forming, machining, additive manufacturing, etc. Embodiments of the disclosure provide for one or more components to be new, used, and/or retrofitted to existing machines and systems. One or more components may be made from a metallic material, such as stainless steel, aluminum, milled aluminum, metal alloy, etc.

The various characteristics mentioned above, as well as other features and characteristics described in more detail below, will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of the embodiments, and by referring to the accompanying drawings.

Terms

The term “connected” as used herein can refer to a connection between a respective component (or subcomponent) and another component (or another subcomponent), which can be fixed, movable, direct, indirect, and analogous to engaged, coupled, disposed, etc., and can be by screw, nut/bolt, weld, and so forth. Any use of any form of the terms “connect”, “engage”, “couple”, “attach”, “mount”, etc. or any other term describing an interaction between elements is not meant to limit the interaction to direct interaction between the elements and may also include indirect interaction between the elements described.

The term “fluid” as used herein can refer to a liquid or gas and is not solely related to any particular type of fluid such as hydrocarbons.

The terms “pipe”, “conduit”, “line” or the like as used herein can refer to any fluid transmission means, and can be tubular in nature.

The term “combustion” as used herein can refer to an exothermic reaction between a fuel and an oxidant that can result in the production of a flame (the visible part of a fire) and a gaseous product.

The term “explosion” as used herein can refer to a combustion in the form of a release of energy in an extreme manner, usually with the generation of high temperatures and the release of gases. An explosion can produce a flame, heat, a shock wave, a pressure wave, or other effects. An explosion can be referred to as a form of combustion.

The term “flame” as used herein can refer to the visible part of a fire. Flame can refer to a product of a combustion reaction emitting visible, infrared, and sometimes ultraviolet light, the frequency spectrum of which depends on the chemical composition of the burning material and intermediate reaction products.

The term “explosion proof assembly” as used herein can refer to an assembly that can adequately prevent an explosion in an environment external to the assembly as a result of an explosion or ignited fire within the assembly.

The term “flame extinguishing enclosure” as used herein can refer to an assemblable enclosure that upon proper coupling together provides or otherwise configures the enclosure with a flame path that is suitable to extinguish (or quench, etc.) a flame that results from a combustion, explosion, or other form of ignited fire from within the enclosure. The term can be further in reference to accomplishing a desired configuration and result in light of certain industry, standards, specifications, requirements, etc. The term “flame dissipating” can be analogous to flame extinguishing.

The term “flame path” as used herein can refer to a spatial region of some amount of direction and/or distance (linear or non-linear) within an explosion proof assembly where a flame may traverse. The explosion proof assembly can be configured in a manner to provide a suitable flame path that ultimately results in the extinguishing of the flame before it (or any part thereof) can leave or otherwise exit the assembly.

The term “transmissive” as used herein can refer to the ability of a material to pass a signal therethrough. For example, a touchscreen of an explosion proof assembly can be transmissive of a signal created by human touch thereto to a touchscreen of a mobile device retained within the assembly that is in contact with therewith. This can occur, for example, by changing an electrical property of both the touchscreens, such as resistance or capacitance.

The term “CNC machined” can refer to a computer numerical control (CNC) process whereby a robot or machinist runs computer-operated equipment to create machine parts, tools and the like.

The embodiments described herein include an explosion proof assembly that includes a tablet computer having a touch screen, such as the iPad® or iPhone produced by Apple, Inc. Particularly, the explosion proof assembly includes a tablet computer or phone disposed within a removably coupled enclosure. The enclosure allows for the use of the tablet computer or phone in hazardous areas including flammable vapors and ignitable dust, corresponding to Class 1 Div2 Class II Div 2, Class 1 Div I, Class 2 Div I, Zone2, Zone22, Zone1 and Zone21 areas. Also, the enclosure allows for the use of the tablet or phone in hazardous areas during Zone/Division 1, 2 conditions. Further, the assembly is configured to be non-incendive such that the assembly does not allow for the release of any sparks or electrical/thermal energy sufficient to cause ignition of hazardous substances in the surrounding environment.

In an embodiment, a non-incentive, non-modified tablet computer or phone (e.g., iPad2, iPad3, iPhone8+, etc.) with an accompanying enclosure is provided that allows a user to operate the tablet in hazardous environments, including Class I/Division 2, Class II/Division 2, Class I/Division 1, Class II/Division 1, ATEX Zone 2, Zone 1 and IECEx classified areas.

Referring initially toFIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1Dtogether, a front-side isometric assembled view, a back-side isometric assembled view, a front-side isometric component breakout view, and a back-side isometric component breakout view, respectively, of an explosion proof assembly, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein, are shown

Explosion proof assembly100is shown in assembled and exploded (or disassembled) configurations and generally includes a mobile device (such as a tablet computer or phone)102and an enclosure104having a first or upper portion106that is releasably coupled to a second or lower portion108. In embodiments, the mobile device102may be a product from Apple, Inc., such as any version of an iPad or an iPod. However, the mobile device102may comprise other varying types and styles of tablet computers or phones, including but not limited to those from other manufacturers. In this embodiment, enclosure portions106,108, and other (sub)components of the enclosure104, may be formed from milled aluminum satisfying the NEMA 4 standard.

The enclosure104may be configured as a flame extinguishing enclosure. Embodiments herein provide for an explosion proof assembly100configured to pass a ‘resistance to impact’ test in accordance with IEC 60079-0 (see Section 26.4.2 describing a drop-ball test). In the drop-ball test, an object, usually a ball of 1 kg mass, is dropped from a range of 0.2 m to 0.4 m.

Accordingly, it may be desirous for an outer touchscreen110to be configured to withstand the impact of the dropped ball without effecting the ability of assembly100to be ‘explosion proof’. It may be further desirous for a rear glass155and/or protective lens157to be configured to withstand the impact of the dropped ball without effecting the ability of assembly100to be ‘explosion proof’.

The outer touchscreen110, the rear element155, and/or lens157may be a durable, hardened, rugged material suitable for the aforementioned speciation requirements, yet also may be chemical resistant (i.e., unaffected by various chemical environments). Materials include glass, sapphire glass, carbon fiber, other glass composites, and so forth.

“Explosion proof” as referenced to the assembly100may refer to the enclosure104, when assembled, being able to contain substantially or completely any explosion originating therein, as described herein. The enclosure104, when assembled, may be configured and able to completely extinguish a flame generated from therein, such as from an explosion or other similar failure of mobile device102.

Enclosure104(or any applicable (sub)components) may be formed from milled aluminum satisfying the NEMA 4 standard. However, in other embodiments enclosure104may be formed from other rugged materials. Of significance, the explosion proof assembly100may be configured for use in hazardous areas, including: North America Class I, Division 1; Class I, Division 2; Class II, Division 2 areas; and Class II, Division 1, and non-US Zone 2 and 1 ATEX and IECEx classified areas. As would be apparent to one of skill in the art, in order to certified by these bodies for satisfactory use within such a setting, various requirements must be met.

FIGS. 1A and 1Bshow assembly100in a closed or assembled configuration where there is no wiring or other conductor exposed to the surrounding environment, whileFIG. 1Cshows assembly100in a breakout view. When assembled the assembly100may be configured for use in Class I, Division 1; Class I, Division 2; Class II, Division 2 areas; and Class II, Division 1, and non-US Zone 2 and 1 ATEX and IECEx classified areas.

The assembly100may be configured for use in the setting when the upper portion106is sealingly coupled with the lowered portion108, with the mobile device102disposed therein. ‘Sealingly coupled’ may include the portions106,108being sealingly engaged to certain specification, but some amount of disconnect is permissible. In this sense ‘sealing’ may include reference to a metal-to-metal seal. However, sealing may additionally or alternatively include the use of an o-ring or gasket between the portions106,108. The gasket (FIG. 2A) may be configured to aid or enhance sealing engagement with the enclosure104in the proximity of the portions106,108.

Regarding the enclosure104, the first portion106may include a front face112. The first portion106may include a rear face114disposed opposite of front face112. The rear face114may provide a suitable surface for sealing between the rear face114and an outer touchscreen110. The surface for sealing may extend between an inner edge and a rear face inner edge, and therearound the rear face. As would be apparent the first portion106may thus have its ‘window’ (or opening)113closed off by the presence of the outer touchscreen110.

The outer touchscreen110may be a thin, flat piece of rigid and durable material suitable to meet various specifications identified herein. One of skill in the art would appreciate the outer touchscreen110may be configured to withstand the aforementioned drop-ball test. Accordingly, the outer touchscreen110may have a thickness T1 in the range of about 0.5 mm to about 1.2 mm. The thickness T1 may depend on the size of the touchscreen110, which may further depend on the particular mobile device desired for use. The outer touchscreen110may be generally, albeit not limited, rectangular in shape, having dimensions suitable for sealing the window113. The touchscreen110may have one or more regions111to accommodate various connectivity between enclosure104push devices and buttons of the mobile device102.

The second portion108may include a second portion inner face116. The inner face116may be bordered by a second portion outer edge117. There may be an inner chamfered surface extending around the inner face116. The inner surfaces of the second portion108may be machined in a manner to accommodate to specification a particular mobile device. In this respect, chamfered or rounded surfaces may instead be linear.

The second portion108may include a second portion rear outer face118. The rear outer face118may be generally flat. Just the same, rear outer face118may have an at least one raised surface145. The use of a raised surface may be useful in the event of an underlying raised surface of the mobile device102. For example, raised surface145may coincide with raised mobile device surface151(for camera149). The underside138proximate to the raised surface may have a protective lens157sealingly engaged therewith. In this respect, the enclosure104may be configured to maintain its integrity, even if the mobile device102has one or more raised surfaces associated therewith.

The second portion108may thus include multiple separated openings (e.g., one for lens157and one for rear element155). The lens157may have suitable dimensions (including thickness for occluding (or closing off) the opening proximate to where the camera149would be. The thickness of the lens may be about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm. The lens157may have parallel outer edges and/or rounded outer edges.

The second portion108may include one or more corners122, which may be configured to coincide and align/mate with any respective corners123of the first portion106(as well as corners of the mobile device102) (see122a, dand123a, d).

The outer touchscreen110may have a planar underside124configured for complete transmissive mating and engagement with a touchscreen126of the mobile device102via contact point (or interface, layer, etc.). In this respect the assembly100may provide the synergistic effect of being able to isolate effects of any internal explosion from the surrounding environment, and yet a user can still access and operate the touchscreen interface (and buttons130,131,132on/off—not viewable here, etc.) of the mobile device102. One of skill would appreciate the contact point may be refer to a suitable amount of contact between the surface of the touchscreen126and the outer touchscreen110, whereby the mobile device102is accessibly operable via interfacing with the outer touchscreen110.

The front face112may have an outer perimeter surface edge134that may extend at around the face112and to the rear face114. The first portion106may include the front face112, and the rear face114disposed opposite of the front face112. The rear face114may provide a suitable surface for sealing between the rear face114and the outer touchscreen110. The surface for sealing may extend between an inner edge136and the rear face inner edge137, and therearound the rear face114.

As illustrated, the outer touchscreen110may be adhesively and sealingly connected with the first portion106, such as via a layer of an adhesive (not viewable here), such as a glue. The glue may be that which is suitable to withstand the hazardous environments discussed herein. The layer of adhesive may provide for a complete perimeter seal between the outer touchscreen110and the first portion106. The adhesive may be suitable to withstand changes of significance in temperature, or chemicals, both from internal and external to the enclosure104.

The sealing engagement between the outer touchscreen110and the first portion104may be beneficial to so as to prevent or at least substantially restrict fluids or particles (e.g., dust, particulates, fibers, etc.) from entering or exiting the enclosure104when the assembly100is in its assembled configuration (e.g.,FIG. 1A).

The first portion106may similarly have a first dissipation wall185. In the event of any remnant flame moving past the first dissipation wall185, the flame will be resisted from passing any further beyond a second dissipation wall186(of second portion108). As a further measure of added redundancy, the first portion106may have a third dissipation wall187. One of skill would appreciate the second portion108may have a grooved surface or region to accommodate mating with the first dissipation wall and the third dissipation wall. And similarly the first portion106may have a grooved surface or region to accommodate mating with the second dissipation wall186. The first dissipation wall185may be the first (lateral) contact point of any flame resulting from failure of the mobile device102.

Much like energy in an ocean wave may be dissipated by a barrier (or wall), so may energy from an explosion. One of skill in the art would recognize the structure of a first dissipation wall as being configured and suitable to do such a thing. One of skill would first appreciate that a flame is a form of visible and/or thermal energy that may be dissipated.

The inner face of the second portion108may trail off into a surface forming a second dissipation wall186, which may extend outward and upward from inner edge120, including in an arcuate manner.

The surface edge134of the first portion106may be flat, planar, rounded, or any suitable shape, and is not meant to be limited. The surface edge134may have one or more bumper mating holes143, whereby a respective bumper142may be coupled therewith (via bumper couplers144, which may be screws). Accordingly, one or more bumpers142may be coupled to the enclosure104.

The bumper142may be of a material suitable for providing extra protection to the mobile device102, particularly for shock absorption in the case of inadvertent dropping of the assembly100. Although not limited, the bumper142may be made of rubber, plastic, silicone, or other comparable material. Moreover, although the Figures may illustrate one or more corner bumpers, the bumper142could have other shapes, including being disposed around the entire perimeter (or in addition or alternatively to other portions) of the assembled enclosure104.

Of significance, the mating faces—namely faces114,116(including respective undulations, edges, and so forth) and inner surfaces (including respective undulations, edges, and so forth)—may be configured for sealing engagement therebetween. The sealing engagement may be, or at least partially include, metal-to-metal. In order to facilitate the flame extinguishing characteristic of the enclosure104, it is desirous to have significantly reduced separation between the corresponding mating surfaces of the first portion106and the second portion108.

Any or both of the first portion106and the second portion108may be made from CNC machining.

In this respect, when the first portion106and the second portion108are coupled together, the distance between any respective and proximate surface of the portions106,108may be less than about 0.05 inches. In aspects, the gap at any particular proximate contact point may be in the range of about 0.01 inches to about 0.05 inches. The use of an extremely tight or close tolerance seal around the portions106,108is of significance in meeting specification for a certified explosion proof assembly.

The first portion106may have one or more first mating apertures146. The first mating apertures146may be configured for receiving respective fasteners148. In aspects, the fasteners148may be screw-type fasteners. As a non-limiting example, the fasteners148may be A2 Stainless M5×0.8×8 mm Torx head screws. The fasteners148may be insertable through respective second portion apertures150. Although shown as being insertable through the second portion108and threadingly into apertures of the first portion106, this configuration could just as well be reversed.

Although not limited to any particular arrangement or number, there may be sufficient placement and use of fasteners148to promote or otherwise contribute to the desired tolerance fit between the first portion106and the second portion108. The fasteners148may be tightened to a fastener torque value in the range of about 3 N·m to about 8 N·m. In aspects, the fastener torque value may be at least 5 N·m. The fastener torque value may be in the range of about 5 N·m to about 6 N·m.

Mobile device102may have a front face152that may further include a front outer edge154, as well as the operable touch screen126. The mobile device102may include a rear face that may be defined by a rear outer edge (not viewable here). There may be a chamfered surface or edge156, which may extend between the outer edge154and the rear outer edge. In aspects, there may be one or more chamfered corners.

The mobile device102may include a first button130(which may be a ‘home’ button or switch as would be understood by one of skill in the art) disposed on the front face152. There may be other buttons that provide various functionality based on user interaction, such as a set of second buttons131(e.g., volume up/down), and a third button132(which may be an ‘on/off’ button or switch as would be understood by one of skill in the art). The buttons130,131,132may be disposed on chamfered surface156, or at any position therearound mobile device102. In accordance with embodiments herein the first button130, second button(s)131, and the third button132may be completely accessible and actuatable when the portions106,108are coupled together.

The mobile device102may include a camera149, understood to include or be associated with to include various lenses and related circuitry, software, memory, etc. For example, there may be a protective camera lens158of camera149(associated with respective camera circuitry), which may be disposed on the rear face159. In accordance with embodiments herein the camera function of the mobile device102, including being able to take pictures via lens158, may be completely accessible and actuatable when the portions106,108are coupled together. The lens158may align with outer lens window157of second portion108. The outer lens window157may be configured to meet or exceed specification for the explosion proof assembly100.

The mobile device102may include an input connector103. The input connector may be configured to allow for data and/or electrical power transfer between mobile device102and any external electrical device, such as a power charger (including respective cord and connector—not shown here). In accordance with embodiments herein the input connector may be completely isolated from the external environment of the assembly100when the portions106,108are coupled together. Still, the input connector may be completely accessible when the portions106,108are coupled together.

The difference in isolation or accessibility to the input connector may be as a result of the presence of an isolator member (or just ‘isolator’)107, which may be a plug, a screw, and so forth. In this respect the assembled enclosure104may provide the ability for a user to gain access to the input connector103without having to resort to disassembly.

As shown here, the isolator107may be of suitable size and configuration for sealing engagement into isolator receptacle160. In embodiments, the isolator107may be configured for quick connect and disconnect from the first portion106, whereby prompt access to input connector102may occur. Just the same, the isolator107may be fastened securely with the first portion106via one or more fasteners196. The isolator107may be configured with one or more apertures161alignable to receptacles162within the first portion106. The receptacles162need not extend all the way through the first portion106. The receptacles162may be configured for threaded engagement with fasteners196.

The isolator107may have a raised head configured for easy tool access, such as via wrench, allen wrench, or other type of feature suitable for a tool to provide the requisite torque value to the tightened isolator107. In other embodiments, the enclosure104may have a non-torque configuration. For example, the isolator107(or respective fasteners) may be self-locking.

The mobile device102may have one or more speakers and/or microphones (associated with respective circuitry and memory)105. Uniquely and advantageously the enclosure104may be configured with a sound-passing material163that may be positioned proximately to the speakers105in a manner whereby sound energy may be passed therethrough, but gases are not. In this respect, the assembly100may be used for communication purposes with every little impediment to vocal or sound transmission to the microphone.

Accordingly, in embodiments, one or more material receptacles164may be formed or machined, for example, into the side134, front face112, and so forth of the first portion106, or vice versa re the second portion108. There may be an at least one receptacle164. As shown here, there may be two receptacles164—one proximate to each respective speaker/microphone section105. There may be an at least one receptacle164proximate to where a user's ear would be and/or an least one (or another one) receptacle164proximate to where a user's mouth would be.

As one of skill would appreciate, the sound-passing material163may be configured for snuggly residing within the receptacle, and being held in place by a respective cover plate167. The cover plate167may be securely fastened to the first portion106via one or more fasteners196. The fasteners196may be inserted through cover plate apertures166and into fastener receptacles165. The receptacles165may be configured for threading engagement with fasteners196. The receptacles165need not extend all the way through the side134of the first portion106. The material receptacles may have respective sound passageways168.

The sound-passing material163is not limited to any particular shape, and may in some sense be referred to as a ‘plug’ or ‘sound plug’. In aspects, the material or plug163may be rectangular prism in nature. The plug163may be about 1 mm to about 3 mm in depth, about 1 mm to about 3 mm in width (or height), and about 5 mm to about 10 mm in length. However, the dimensions of the plug163need only be that to fit within receptacle(s)164. The plug163may allow gaseous material to pass therethrough, such as air, but may be completely impermeable to a flame. As such, any flame internal to the enclosure104will not breach.

The plug material163may be a stainless steel sintered material. In this respect, the material is made by a welding process of small particles of stainless steel powder by applying heat below the melting point, then machined to a desired shape. The plug163may have a porosity of between about 10 microns to 30 microns.

In the case of the new iPhone8and later versions, and comparable alternatives, the enclosure104may include a rear element or glass155. The use of the rear element155may aid to prevent or mitigate interference with any electromagnetic “wireless” recharging functionality of the mobile device102. Accordingly, the second portion108may have an opening153configured to receive the rear element155.

The rear window element may be comparable in characteristics to that of the outer touchscreen110; however, rear element155and outer touchscreen110need not be the same. For example, both may be configured to meet specification of the ‘ball drop’ test discussed herein, but may be made of different materials. In this respect, outer touchscreen110may be configured for signal transmissivity related to human touch, whereas rear element155may be configured to be inductive to wireless recharging (e.g., the electrical recharge signal pass through the rear element155, whereas a solid backing of second portion208—especially metallic—may not pass the signal).

The assembly100may be configured for use in the setting when the upper portion106is sealingly coupled with the lowered portion108, with the mobile device102disposed therein. Although not limited, the rear element155may be adhesively and sealingly connected with the second portion108, such as via a layer of an adhesive (not viewable here). The layer of adhesive may provide for a complete perimeter seal between the rear element155and the second portion108. The adhesive may be suitable to withstand changes of significance in temperature, or chemicals, both from internal and external to the enclosure104.

The enclosure104may have various other points of isolation and accessibility to accommodate ‘explosion proof’ capability, yet at the same time button interactability with the mobile device102.

For example, the first portion106may have a first button isolation region190. The region185may be configured as a recess within the first portion106, which may also be on the outer edge or side134. The region190may have a first set of holes191afully through the first portion106in order to accommodate passage of push pins192. Although shown here in a quasi-parallel elliptical shape, the shape of the recessed region190is not meant to be limited.

A first pliable insert193may be configured to fit and set within (including entirely) in the region190. The pliable insert193may be any suitable durable material, such as rubber. The pliable insert193may have one or more protruding nubs194configured to extend outward of the enclosure104once cover plate195is installed thereon. Any pliable insert of the disclosure may be made of rubber or rubber-like material.

In assembly, the end192bof push pin190will reside within an underside portion of protruding nub194, such that pushing on protruding nub194will result in depression of the other end of the pin192against the respective button(s)131.

The cover plate195may be coupled to the first portion106via one or more plate fasteners (such as screws)196. The fasteners196may pass through aligned apertures of the cover plate and the pliable insert193, and into receptacles191b. Notably, receptacles191bneed not extend all the way through the portion106. Receptacles191bmay be threaded for threaded engagement with fasteners196.

To any extent other buttons of the mobile device102may need to be accessible, there may be other comparable structures. Thus, there may be a second recessed region (not viewable here). The region may be configured as a recess within the first portion106, which may also be on the outer edge or side134. The region may have a first set of holes (or hole)198afully through the first portion106in order to accommodate passage of a push pin(s)197. Although shown here in a quasi-parallel elliptical shape, the shape of the recessed region is not meant to be limited.

A second pliable insert193amay be configured to fit and set within (including entirely) in the second region. The pliable insert193amay be any suitable durable material, such as rubber. The pliable insert193amay have one or more protruding nubs (not viewable here) configured to extend outward of the enclosure104once cover plate195ais installed thereon.

In assembly, the end197bof push pin197will reside within an underside portion194aof protruding nub, such that pushing on the protruding nub will result in depression of the other end of the pin192against the respective button(s)132.

The cover plate195amay be coupled to the first portion106via one or more plate fasteners (such as screws)196. The fasteners196may pass through aligned apertures of the cover plate and the second pliable insert193a, and into receptacles (not viewable here). Notably, the fastener receptacles need not extend all the way through the portion106. Receptacles may be threaded for threaded engagement with fasteners196.

In embodiments, mobile device102may have other button orientation, such as on the front side152or rear side159. As shown, the mobile device102may have a ‘Home’ button130. Thus, the assembly104may comparably be configured to provide interactablity thereto. For example, the first portion may have a lateral extension structure or section129. The section129may be configured with a (third) recessed region109.

The region109may be configured as a recess within the first portion106(or extension section129), which may also be on or proximately associated with the top side112. The region may have a first set of holes (or hole)121afully through the first section129in order to accommodate passage of a push pin(s)101. Although shown here in a rounded quadrilateral shape, the shape of the recessed region is not meant to be limited.

A third pliable insert135may be configured to fit and set within (including entirely) in the region109. The pliable insert135may be any suitable durable material, such as rubber. The pliable insert135may have one or more protruding nubs125configured to extend outward of the enclosure104once cover plate133is installed thereon.

In assembly, the end101bof push pin101will reside within an underside portion of protruding nub125, such that pushing on the protruding nub will result in depression of the other end101aof the pin101against the respective button130.

The cover plate133may be coupled to the first portion106via one or more plate fasteners (such as screws)196. The fasteners196may pass through aligned apertures121b, cof the cover plate133and the pliable insert135, respectively, and into receptacles127. Notably, the fastener receptacles127need not extend all the way through the portion106(or section129). Accordingly, the extension section129may be configured with a desirable thickness or depth to accommodate a sufficient amount of length of the fasteners196. Receptacles127may be threaded for threaded engagement with fasteners196.

Although described as in the first portion106, embodiments herein provide for modification of the portions106,108to the point that the second portion may be configured comparably and vice versa.

In this respect the assembled enclosure100may provide the ability for a user to gain access to the buttons of the mobile device without having to resort to disassembly, although not meant to be limited to any particular type of isolation/access configuration.

Referring briefly toFIGS. 5A and 5Btogether, a frontward view of a first portion having another or alternative extension and a frontward view of a touchscreen with a recessed region, in accordance with embodiments herein, are shown.

The assembly100may include either of the first portion106or second portion108having an additional or alternative extension129a. In a similar respect, the outer touchscreen110may include a regions111ato accommodate various connectivity between enclosure104push devices and buttons of the mobile device102and/or one or more speakers and/or microphones (associated with respective circuitry and memory). As mentioned herein, the assembly100may be used for communication purposes with every little impediment to vocal or sound transmission to the microphone.

The extension129amay include a gap or hole129b. The gap/hole129bmay provide suitable clearance whereby an ambient light sensor and/or proximity sensor of the mobile device (not shown here) are unimpeded by the enclosure. Thus, the depth of the gap/hole129bmay extend through the thickness of the extension129a.

While the region111amay be comparable to that of region111, the region111aneed not exceed all the way through the thickness of the outer touchscreen110, and thus may be contemplated as being thinned or recessed. Thinning of the region111amay promote improved sound performance from the speaker to a user's ear (i.e., the less glass thickness, the less impediment to sound waves). Just the same, in embodiments, region111may be thinned and/or region111amay exceed through the thickness.

To further aid sound transmission, the first portion106or second portion (not shown here) may include yet another material receptacles (not viewable here) formed or machined thereinto (like that ofFIG. 1D). The receptacle may be proximate to any respective speaker/microphone section understood to be disposed tantamount to what would be proximate to a user's ear. As one of skill would appreciate, the sound-passing material163may be configured for snuggly residing within the receptacle, and being held in place by a respective cover plate167a. The cover plate167amay be securely fastened one or more fasteners196. The fasteners196may be inserted through cover plate apertures and into fastener receptacles. The receptacles may be configured for threading engagement with fasteners. The receptacles need not extend all the way through the first portion106. The material receptacles may have respective sound passageways (not viewable here). The sound-passing material (not viewable here) may be like that as described herein.

Referring now toFIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2Ctogether, a lateral cross-sectional view of an explosion proof assembly, a zoom-in cross-sectional view of sealing engagement of the explosion proof assembly, and a zoom-in cross-sectional view of a flame path with a flame therein of the explosion proof assembly, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein, are shown.

As should be apparent,FIGS. 2A-2Cmay not be to scale. Instead, the Figures are intended to illustrate that upon zoom-in inspection, various passageways, gaps, and interstices may be present when the enclosure is assembled together (i.e., first portion206and second portion208are coupled together). For example, there may be a gap283having a distance of less than about 0.04 inches (1000 microns) between various contact points of the first portion206and the second portion208.

Although theoretically this could result in passage of, for example, gaseous material, air, and so forth, one of the key attributes of the assembly200is the ability to dissipate a flame. At the same time, the mobile device202may be interacted with (for example, pin297may be depressed external to an outer side234, and subsequently activating a button232of the mobile device.

Regarding the assembly200, the first portion206may include a front face212. The first portion206may include a rear face or backside214disposed opposite of front face212. The rear face214may provide a suitable surface215for sealing between the first portion206and an outer touchscreen210. The surface for sealing215may extend between an inner edge236and a rear face inner edge237, and therearound the rear face surface215.

The outer touchscreen210may be adhesively and sealingly connected with the first portion206, such as via a layer of an adhesive284. The layer of adhesive284may provide for a complete perimeter seal between the outer touchscreen210and the first portion206. The adhesive may be suitable to withstand changes of significance in temperature, or chemicals, both from internal and external to the enclosure204.

The sealing engagement between the outer touchscreen210and the first portion206may be beneficial to so as to prevent or at least substantially restrict fluids or particles (e.g., dust, particulates, fibers, etc.) from entering or exiting the enclosure204when the assembly200is in its assembled configuration (e.g.,FIG. 1A). The sealing may further prevent any flame path between portion206and the outer touchscreen210.

The second portion208may include a second portion inner face216. The inner face216may be bordered by a second portion outer edge217. The second portion208may include the second portion rear outer face218. The rear outer face218may be generally flat. The inner face216may trail off into a surface forming the second dissipation wall286, which may extend outward and upward from edge surface220, including in an arcuate or shoulder-edged manner, into proximate engagement with the first portion206. As shown, the first dissipation wall285may be the first (lateral) contact point of any flame288resulting from failure of the mobile device202.

The second portion208may similarly have a second dissipation wall286. In the event of any remnant flame288moving past the first dissipation wall285, the flame288will be resisted from passing any further beyond the second dissipation wall286. Still, as a further measure of added redundancy, the first portion may have a third dissipation wall287. One of skill would appreciate the second portion208may have a grooved surface or region to accommodate mating with the first dissipation wall285and the third dissipation wall287. And similarly the first portion206may have a grooved surface or region to accommodate mating with the second dissipation wall286. To the naked eye the first portion206and second portion208may fit seamlessly together.

The first portion206and the second portion206may be configured for assembly together whereby a flame extinguishing (or quenching) path289may be formed. The extinguishing path289may be likened to a path of least resistance. That is, in the event of an explosion within the enclosure204, the resultant flame288travels therein. Like any joint, where the first portion206and second208are coupled together may be the path of flame travel.

To meet various standards, such as the more stringent requirements for Class 1 Div I or Zone 1, the enclosure204is required to be able to withstand the effects of an internal combustion or explosion that may produce a flame, which could in turn be an ignition source for various materials that may be associated with the Class 1 Div I or Zone 1.

It has been discovered that the flame288(or its energy) may be extinguished or otherwise dissipated by the presence of one or more flame barriers or dissipation walls285,286,287.

This includes in the event a rear glass255is utilized. Although referred to as ‘glass’, other non-glass materials may be used. As mentioned herein, new mobile devices may be configured with inductive (wireless) (re)chargability to alleviate the need to plug in a power cord. Thus, the rear glass255may be any material suitable to accommodate induction, yet sufficient to meet requirements and specifications described herein for explosion proofing. To accommodate, the enclosure may include the rear glass255sealiningly engaged with the second portion208. Thus, the second portion208may have an opening253sealed/closed off by the presence of the rear glass (analogous to opening113and outer touchscreen110), including use of a layer of sealing material between glass255and lip or edge270.

Sealing may be aided by the use of gasket228, which may be disposed in a gasket groove228aformed in either or both of the first portion206and the second portion208.

One of skill would appreciate a similar sealing ability in the event additional glass or lens (FIG. 1C, 157) may be needed for raised surface245.

Referring now toFIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3Ctogether, a top view of a hand-held accessory releasably coupled to a rear side of an explosion proof assembly, a top view of the hand-held accessory ofFIG. 3A, and a side view of a user holding the explosion proof assembly ofFIG. 3A, respectively, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein, are shown.

While it need not be exactly the same, an assembly300may be like that of assembly100ofFIGS. 1A-1C, etc., and components thereof may be duplicate or analogous. Thus, only a brief discussion of the assembly300is provided, recognizing that differences, if any, would be discernable by one of skill in the art, especially in view of the present disclosure.

As illustrated, explosion proof assembly300may include a mobile device (not shown here) associated with a flame extinguishing enclosure304. The enclosure304may include a first or upper portion306configured for releasable coupling to a second or lower portion308. In aspects, the mobile device302may be an iPad® or iPhone® produced by Apple, Inc.

The assembly300may be configured for use in the setting when the upper portion306is sealingly coupled with the lowered portion308, with the mobile device disposed therein. ‘Sealingly coupled’ may include the portions306,308being sealingly engaged to certain specification, but some amount of disconnect is permissible. In this sense ‘sealing’ may refer to or include a metal-to-metal seal.

To aid in use of the assembly300, various accessories may be utilized, including those that provide additional grip, shock absorption, hand-holding, and the like. As shown, an attachable hand-holding accessory360may be coupled to the assembly, such as to the rear side318of the second portion308.

Although not limited to any particular hand-holding accessory configuration (and material selection thereof), the accessory360may be made of a nylon-based material.

The accessory360may have an attachment backing362, which may be of minimal thickness and generally polygonal in shape. The backing362may be configured for releasable attachment to the rear face318. In this respect, the backing362may have one or more apertures (not viewable here) for receiving a respective attachment fastener364therethrough. As shown, there may be a fastener364inserted through four corner apertures. Accordingly, the second portion308may also have receptacles (not viewable here) that align with the apertures, to which the fastener364may be securely positioned therein. In aspects, the fasteners364may be screwed into the second portion308.

It may be desirous to attach and detach the accessory360without having to jeopardize the integrity of the assembled enclosure304. Thus, the receptacles need not have a depth that extends all the way through the thickness of the second portion308. Accordingly, the second portion308may have various raised faces366to accommodate and appreciable amount of material depth to which the fastener364may extend.

In other aspects, it may be desirous to disassemble the enclosure304without removing the accessory360. Thus, the accessory360may be shaped in a manner to provide access to enclosure fasteners340. As shown, the accessory360may have one or more arcuate segments368.

The accessory360may have a hand hold strap370. The strap370may be movably, yet fixedly connected at strap attachment point372. While not meant to be limited to any particular hand hold configuration, the hand hold strap370may be of sufficient length for inserting into an eyelet374, and then wrapping back over for self-securing to itself, such as via a Velcro layer (e.g., a mini-hook/loop)376. The layer376may be of suitable size to provide adjustment for accommodation of hands of various sizes, as would be apparent to one of skill in the art.

As shown inFIG. 3C, a user378can slide his/her hand into the hand-insertion region380. Using the hand on the back of the enclosure304may provide extra stability as the user378interfaces with the mobile device via the outer touchscreen.

For further convenience, a carrying handle382may be coupled to the enclosure304. As illustrated inFIG. 3A, the handle382may be coupled to the second portion308via handle couplers384on each side of the handle.

Referring now toFIGS. 4A and 4Btogether, a top view of a magnetic attachment accessory releasably coupled to a rear side of an explosion proof assembly and a side view of the explosion proof assembly ofFIG. 4Bwhile magnetically attached to a surface, respectively, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein, are shown.

While it need not be exactly the same, an assembly400may be like that of any assembly disclosed herein, and components thereof may be duplicate or analogous. Thus, only a brief discussion of the assembly400is provided, recognizing that differences, if any, would be discernable by one of skill in the art, especially in view of the present disclosure.

As illustrated, explosion proof assembly400may include a mobile device (not shown here) associated with a flame extinguishing enclosure404. The enclosure404may include a first or upper portion406configured for releasable coupling to a second or lower portion408.

To aid in use of the assembly400, various accessories may be utilized, including those that provide additional grip, shock absorption, hand-holding, and the like. As shown inFIGS. 4A-4B, magnetic attachment accessory460may be coupled to the assembly, such as to the rear side418of the second portion408.

Although not limited to any particular accessory configuration (and material selection thereof), the accessory460may include various magnetic and non-magnetic components coupled together. As shown in the Figures, the accessory460may include at least on non-magnetic support bar467coupled to raised faces466. The support bar467may have a generally rectangular prism shape

The backing support bar(s)467may be configured for releasable attachment to the rear face418. In this respect, the support bar467may have one or more apertures (partially viewable here) for receiving a respective attachment fastener464therethrough. As shown, there may be a fastener464inserted through apertures on each end of the support bar(s)467. Accordingly, the second portion408may also have receptacles (not viewable here) that align with the apertures, to which the fastener464may be securely positioned therein. In aspects, the fasteners464may be screwed into the second portion406.

Although a magnet469may be directly coupled to the rear face418, the Figures show the magnet469coupled onto the support bar467. In aspects, there may be a first magnet on one end of the support bar467, and a second magnet disposed on the opposite end of the support bar. An other side of second portion408may have a similar support bar/magnet configuration (e.g., a support bar467on each side, and a magnet469on each end of the respective support bar). The magnet469may be attached via a magnet fastener461.

It may be desirous to attach and detach the accessory460without having the jeopardize the integrity of the assembled enclosure404. Thus, the receptacles need not have a depth that extends all the way through the thickness of the second portion408. Accordingly, the second portion408may have various raised faces466to accommodate and appreciable amount of material depth to which the fastener464may extend and engage therein. As shown the presence of the raised faces466may provide suitable clearance463so that the support bar467does not come into inadvertent contact with enclosure fasteners440.

As shown inFIG. 4B, a user may magnetically attach the assembly400to a suitable surface, which may provide extra stability as the user interfaces with the mobile device via outer touchscreen410. Moreover, the user is now relieved of having to use one hand to hold the assembly400.

For further convenience, a carrying handle482may be coupled to the enclosure404. The handle482may be coupled to the second portion408via handle couplers4529on each side of the handle.

Embodiments herein provide for a method of forming an explosion proof assembly that generally includes placing or disposing a mobile device within an enclosure comprising a first portion sealingly engaged with a second portion. Such an assembly may be suitable to completely satisfy requirements of Class I, Division 2 and Class II, Division 2 hazardous area classifications. Also, an operable touchscreen of a mobile device may be safely interfaced and actuated within Class I, Division 2 and Class II, Division 2 hazardous areas without violating the safety requirements of these areas.

Advantages

Previously operators/users would not be allowed to carry an electronic mobile device with them into hazardous areas (C1D2/Zone2/Zone2/Zone 1) as there was no guaranty these devices will not create a spark (i.e., explosion). So they were using pen and paper to do their job (inspection, maintenance, turn arounds, etc.).

Embodiments of the disclosure advantageously provide for an explosion proof assembly that may allow operators/users to now carry their mobile devices within an explosion proof assembly of the disclosure. Users can now advantageously and beneficially use customized Apps, take pictures, take videos, and collaborate with their peers, such via Skype or other Apps. Their work is a lot more efficient and is still safe.