COVER FOR A SHAFT AND A SHAFT SUPPORT SYSTEM

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a cover for a shaft, a set consisting of a cover and a protective cover, an attachment system for a shaft cover, and a use of a cover for a shaft according to the preambles of the independent claims.

[0002] Manhole covers with a manhole lid, road grates or sewer covers are predominantly cast iron covers or closures for maintenance shafts of supply lines, such as sewage pipes, electrical conduits, ventilation ducts and the like.

[0003] A major problem with this manhole cover is its weight. These covers typically weigh between 48 and 99 kg in load class D400 and are difficult to handle. For safety reasons, loads exceeding 25 kg must not be lifted by individuals.

[0004] Height-adjustable manhole covers are frequently used in road surfaces. Adjusting the height of such a manhole cover within the road surface requires a lifting tool for both the cover or grate and the frame. For covers with hinges, such as lids or grates, an auxiliary cover is also necessary. These auxiliary covers are usually also made of cast iron. During height adjustment, the cover is replaced with the auxiliary cover, asphalt is laid, the auxiliary cover is removed, the frame is then lifted and secured, and the original cover is reinserted.

[0005] However, lifting a manhole cover has several disadvantages. Additional covers must be obtained.

[0006] The temporary covers also need to be stored. This typically takes place in the municipalities, at the relevant cantonal authorities where the corresponding manhole covers are installed, or at specialized companies. As many temporary covers must be kept in stock as are installed during a road section rehabilitation project. This generates considerable administrative work and requires a large storage area, which also incurs costs. Furthermore, the storage of the temporary covers must be coordinated. Nevertheless, these temporary covers are occasionally lost. This can lead to delays on the construction site and additional costs for procuring the temporary covers. As is well known, these delays can quickly become very expensive. Transporting the temporary covers from the storage location to the construction site and back is neither ecologically nor economically sound.

[0007] Covers for manholes are known from US 8 206 058 B2, KR 200 336 571 Y1 and US 6 854 922 B1.

[0008] It is therefore an object of the invention to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, it is an object of the invention to provide a manhole cover that is easy and safe to handle and can be used as an auxiliary cover. A further object of the invention is to provide a mounting system for a manhole cover that is easy to retrofit, user-friendly, and safe.

[0009] The tasks are solved using the devices defined in the independent claims. Further embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0010] A first aspect of the invention relates to a cover for a shaft according to claim 1, comprising a first segment and a second segment. The first segment and the second segment are complementary in shape to each other and together form a substantially circular circumference. The segments are preferably detachably connected to one another. The first segment is smaller than the second segment. The first segment can be fixedly mounted to a frame, and the second segment can be brought into at least one open position and one closed position by a folding motion.

[0011] The two-part cover allows for easier handling compared to a one-piece lid. Opening is particularly easier, as only the second segment needs to be lifted. This second segment is also lighter than previously used, complete covers.

[0012] The cover features a locking system that allows the second segment to be locked in an open position. The locking system is self-locking.

[0013] Such a locking system can be implemented very simply in various forms. Additional locking devices become unnecessary.

[0014] According to the invention, the locking system comprises an anchoring element and a recess. The recess is arranged on the first segment and the anchoring element is arranged on the second segment.

[0015] In this way, the locking system forms a kind of joint that connects the small segment and the large segment in a detachable manner.

[0016] The anchoring element can be locked in the recess in the open position of the second segment.

[0017] In this way, the anchoring element locks itself into place, eliminating the need for additional anchoring mechanisms. The larger segment is secured against unintentional folding back by a locking mechanism in the open position. This locking mechanism can be released with minimal effort.

[0018] A cover of the aforementioned type offers the following advantages: To prevent the locking mechanism of the larger segment from engaging when installed in a frame, this locking mechanism can be fitted with a cotter pin and thus held in the unlocked position. Once completed, the cotter pin can be removed and the cover locked. This eliminates any pocket in the opening area where dirt could accumulate and obstruct opening the cover.

[0019] The cover can be made of cast iron. However, it is also possible to use fiberglass-reinforced plastic.

[0020] Cast iron is particularly durable, robust, and able to withstand heavy loads. Fiberglass-reinforced plastic is corrosion-free, antistatic, spark-proof, and fire-retardant. The plastic covers are lighter and require less maintenance.

[0021] Plastic covers are particularly suitable for promenade manhole covers.

[0022] The second segment can include a pick hole, the pick hole being preferably located in the middle of the second segment.

[0023] The pickhole allows the cover to be lifted using picks or lifting devices; a central arrangement is preferred for optimal force distribution.

[0024] The second segment can include a locking element. The locking element can preferably be unlocked with a pick and preferably through a second opening, such as a second pickhole.

[0025] For example, the locking element can include a snap-in element that, when closed, engages with a bracket for the cover, such as a frame, thus locking the cover against unintentional opening. This snap-in element can be released from the bracket using a pick. The snap-in element can be a spring-loaded detent.

[0026] This has the advantage that the unlocking and raising of the second segment can be done almost simultaneously using picks.

[0027] According to the invention, an additional locking rod is provided as an extension of the locking mechanism, which allows the operator to unlock the cover in an upright position when it is open.

[0028] A second aspect of the invention relates to a set comprising a cover as described above and a protective cover, preferably made of sheet steel. The protective cover covers the first segment substantially completely and the second segment at least partially.

[0029] The additional protective cover makes it possible to protect the cover from surface material in crevices, e.g. in the area of ​​the recess, the surface structure or the lettering, when it is installed in a covering or when the cover is used as an auxiliary cover.

[0030] A third aspect of the invention relates to a mounting system for a manhole cover. The mounting system comprises a cover as described above and a frame for receiving the cover.

[0031] The cover comprises a first segment and a second segment. The first and second segments are complementary in shape and together form an essentially circular circumference. The segments are preferably detachably connected. The first segment is smaller than the second segment. The first segment is fixed to the frame or can be fixed to it, and the second segment can be moved into at least one open position and one closed position by a folding motion. The cover has a locking system as described above.

[0032] When the frame is pulled and / or lifted during renovation work, no damage to the covering occurs around the opening area, as the detachable connection, or the joint, or the locking system is located inside.

[0033] The first segment of the cover can be mounted to the frame, preferably screwed in place. After the frame has been adjusted (where "adjusted" refers to the height of the frame and cover), the first, smaller segment can be screwed down onto the frame with two screws. Alternatively, the smaller segment could be welded or riveted directly onto the frame, or even cast as a single piece with the frame.

[0034] The frame can be made of cast iron and / or concrete. For example, the frame could be made of cast iron surrounded by another concrete frame. It is also possible for the frame to have a flange or transition into a rebate, meaning it could be made entirely of cast iron.

[0035] It is also possible to provide a frame made of fiberglass-reinforced plastic.

[0036] Preferably, the second segment of the cover is connected or connectable to the frame via a spring device. The spring device can be a gas spring.

[0037] The suspension makes handling the cover easier and is easier on the back. A gas spring assists in opening the cover, thus significantly relieving strain on the operator's back.

[0038] Advantageously, the frame is circular and extends essentially along the outer circumference of the cover. The frame can preferably have a flange or rebate on which the cover can rest.

[0039] Preferably, damping inserts, for example made of ethylene propylene rubber (EPDM), are attached to the frame to dampen vibrations.

[0040] Furthermore, the attachment system can include a protective cover, preferably made of sheet steel. The protective cover can cover the first segment essentially completely and the second segment at least partially. This additional protective cover protects the cover from asphalt seeping into cracks when it is installed in a pavement and helps to keep the surface clean.

[0041] The cover system can be installed in a road surface. For installing such a manhole cover in the road surface, a lifting tool is preferably used for both the cover and the frame. For covers with locking systems or hinges, an auxiliary cover can also be used.

[0042] The following describes a possible height adjustment process using the example of a cover, which can optionally be hinged and / or locked in the frame: a.) The extension system can be installed at the level of a base course. The base course forms the foundation for the road surface, the surface course, or the surface course, which is applied later; b.) an auxiliary cover or a cover as described above can be inserted into the frame and optionally provided with a release agent; c.) the position of the pick hole for later lifting of the auxiliary cover or cover is preferably marked; d.) the surface course (asphalt or the like) is applied and compacted; e.) the auxiliary cover or cover is removed with the lifting device (e.g., a hydraulic lifting device); f.) the frame can be raised to the desired height with the lifting device; g.) typically, the gap created by raising the frame is filled with mortar using a conical formwork or conical formwork; preferably, the gap is mortared with a special mortar; h.) The cover is then reinserted into the frame; i.) optionally, a gas spring is attached to the frame before the cover is closed; j.) the locking element is released, for example by removing a cotter pin; k.) the extended locking rod is pulled and the cover can be closed without lifting.

[0043] The use of a cover as described above is particularly advantageous as an auxiliary cover for installing an extension system for a manhole cover as described above. This eliminates the need for additional auxiliary covers, thus saving on acquisition and storage costs.

[0044] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to figures and exemplary embodiments. These explanations are merely illustrative and not intended to be limiting. Identical reference numerals denote structurally identical elements. The figures show: Figure 1: An attachment system according to the invention in a perspective view with the cover closed. Figure 2: The attachment system according to the invention with the cover in the open position. Figure 3: The attachment system according to the invention in a top view with section axes AA and BB. Figure 4: The attachment system according to the invention in section AA. Figure 3 Figure 5: The attachment system according to the invention in section BB from Figure 3 Figure 6: The attachment system according to the invention with a pick in the top view and section axis CC. Figure 7: The attachment system according to the invention in section CC. Figure 6 Figure 8: the attachment system according to the invention with a locking rod as an extension.

[0045] Figure 1Figure 1 shows a cover system 1 according to the invention in a perspective view with the cover 2 closed. The cover 2 comprises a first segment 3 and a second segment 4. The first segment 3 and the second segment 4 are complementary in shape to each other and form a substantially circular perimeter. The first segment 3 is smaller than the second segment 4. The cover 2 is encased in a cast iron frame 5. This frame is, in turn, integrated into a concrete frame 6. The second segment 4 is detachably connected to the first segment 3 via an anchoring element 8 in a recess 7 of the first segment 3. The first segment 3 is connected to the cast iron frame 5 by screws 16. The cover 2 has a centrally located first pick hole 9 and a second pick hole 10.

[0046] Figure 2Figure 1 shows the attachment system 1 according to the invention with the cover 2 in the open position. The open position is achieved by a folding movement 11 of the second segment 4. The second segment 4 is connected to the frame 5 via a gas spring 12. Support struts 13 additionally stabilize the second segment 4. In the closed position, the second segment 4 rests on a flange 14 of the frame 5. An additional locking element 15 is located on the outer circumference of the second segment 4 to lock the second segment 4 relative to the frame 5. The unlocking can be performed as shown in Figure 1. Figure 7 shown, using a pick (18).

[0047] Figure 3 Figure 1 shows the attachment system according to the invention in a top view with the section axes AA and BB.

[0048] Figure 4 The inventive attachment system 1 is shown. Figure 3In section AA. This figure shows how the anchoring element 8 engages in the recess 7 of the first segment 3 and thus locks the second segment 4 in the open position. From the Figure 4 An approach to the shaft 17 to be covered is also recognizable.

[0049] Figure 5 The inventive attachment system 1 is shown. Figure 3 On average, BB.

[0050] Figure 6 Figure 1 shows the attachment system 1 according to the invention in a top view with the cover 2 in the closed position and the section axis CC marked. Additionally, a pick 18 engages in the second pick hole (10, Figure 1 ).

[0051] Figure 7 The inventive attachment system 1 is shown. Figure 6in the section plane CC. In particular, this figure shows how the tip of a pick 18 is pushed through the second pick hole 10 in the second segment 4 in order to push a locking element 15 upwards against the cover 2 in such a way that a lock with the frame 5 is released.

[0052] Figure 8 Figure 19 additionally shows a locking bar 19 as an extension of the locking mechanism. This enables the second segment 4 to be unlocked without lifting segment 4 and without the operator bending over.

Claims

1. A cover (2) for a manhole (17) comprising a first segment (3) and a second segment (4), wherein the first segment (3) and the second segment (4) are of complementary shape to each other and together form a substantially circular circumference, wherein the segments (3, 4) are preferably releasably connected to each other, wherein the first segment (3) is smaller than the second segment (4), wherein the first segment (3) can be fixedly mounted to a frame (4) and the second segment (4) can be brought by a pivoting movement (11) into at least one open position and one closed position, wherein the cover (2) has a locking system with which the second segment (4) can be locked in an open position and wherein the locking system is self-locking, wherein the locking system comprises an anchoring element (8) and a recess (7) and wherein the recess (7) is arranged on the first segment (3) and wherein the anchoring element (8) is arranged on the second segment (4), characterized in that on the underside of the second segment (4) a locking rod (19) is present as an extension of the lock, which in the open state of the cover (2) engages in a hole of the first segment, and wherein this engagement can be released by an operator in an upright position by pulling the locking rod (19), so that the second segment (4) does not have to be lifted to close the cover.

2. The cover (2) according to claim 1, wherein the anchoring element (8) is locked in the recess (7) in the open position of the second segment (4).

3. The cover (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second segment (4) comprises a pick hole (9), wherein the pick hole (9) is preferably arranged centrally in the second segment (4).

4. The cover (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second segment (4) comprises a latching element (15), wherein the latching element (15) can preferably be unlocked with a pick tool (18) and preferably through a second opening (10).

5. A set comprising a cover (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and a protective cover, preferably made of sheet steel, wherein the protective cover substantially completely covers the first segment (3) and at least partially covers the second segment (4).

6. An attachment system (1) for a manhole cover, comprising a cover (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and a frame (5) for receiving the cover (2).

7. The attachment system (1) according to claim 6, wherein the first segment (3) of the cover (2) is mounted, preferably screwed, to the frame (5).

8. The attachment system (1) according to any one of claims 6 or 7, wherein the second segment (4) of the cover (2) is or can be connected to the frame (5) via a spring device.

9. The attachment system (1) according to claim 8, wherein the spring device is a gas spring (12).

10. The attachment system (1) according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the frame (5) is circular and extends substantially along an outer circumference of the cover (2) and preferably has a flange (14) or a rebate on which the cover (2) rests.

11. The attachment system (1) according to any one of claims 6 to 10, further comprising a protective cover, preferably made of sheet steel, wherein the protective cover substantially completely covers the first segment (3) and at least partially covers the second segment (4).

12. The attachment system (1) according to any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein the attachment system (1) can be installed in a road surface.

13. Use of a cover (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 as an auxiliary cover for the installation of a attachment system (1) for a manhole cover.