Stackable utility enclosure

Abstract

Stackable utility enclosures are able to interconnect via insertion of a bottom of a first stackable utility enclosure into a lip including an upper opening of a second stackable utility enclosure. The stackable utility enclosures can include a plurality of exterior ribs. Exterior ribs of the first stackable utility enclosure each include a notch that can interconnect with the lip of the second stackable utility enclosure and prevent movement of the stackable utility enclosures relative to one another when interconnected. The stackable utility enclosures can include a plurality of interior ribs that provide additional support and share the load of stacked utility enclosures. The interior ribs can form grooves configured to receive utility components or dividers.

Description

[0001] STACKABLE UTILITY ENCLOSURE

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 579,348, filed August 29, 2023, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

[0004] FIELD

[0005] The present disclosure relates to subgrade utility enclosures. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to utility enclosures for providing an enclosed region beneath a ground surface for subgrade utilities such as electrical utilities, communications, mechanical wiring, and water fixtures, where the utility enclosures are stackable when above-ground or installed underground.

[0006] BACKGROUND

[0007] Subgrade utility enclosure or utility vaults are widely used to provide internal enclosed regions, where utility connections can be made and housed. Examples of such connections include the joining of electrical cables or lines used in street lighting, telephone, coaxial, or fiber optic cables or lines in telephone and communication systems, and water lines or valves for residential communities and golf courses. These utility enclosures are generally placed below grade of ground level (e.g., subgrade or underground), with their upper surfaces at or proximate to grade where loads from pedestrians and vehicles, as well as environmental factors such as the presence of precipitation and animals, are anticipated. Generally, the utility enclosures may be used by municipalities, utility companies, and homeowners at locations where longevity, durability, and affordability are important criteria.

[0008] When installed underground, job plans may include the placement of a utility enclosure at a known depth below grade. However, the actual location of the utility enclosure may be different than the planned location. For example, the actual location of the utility enclosure may be greater in depth than the planned location, such that a single utility enclosure may not be sufficient in height to place the upper surface at or proximate to grade. By way of another example, the depth at which a utility enclosure is to be placed may require a utility enclosure of an increased height, where the time and cost to manufacture or purchase may be excessive or prohibitive.

[0009] SUMMARY Accordingly, there is a need for utility enclosures that are stackable both above ground and when installed underground. The utility enclosures should include mating features that prevent movement relative to one another when stacked. The utility enclosures should prevent unwanted amounts of dirt, rocks, water, animals, plants, etc. from entering the utility enclosure, while still allowing for the passing of lines (e.g., power lines, data lines, water lines, etc.) into a cavity or space defined within the utility enclosure.

[0010] Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a utility enclosure with a body. The body may be monolithic, and may optionally include a bottom surface. The body includes exterior ribs. Where there are multiple utility enclosures stacked together, the exterior ribs of a first utility enclosure can operate as a mating feature with corresponding aspects of a body of a second utility enclosure. For example, the exterior ribs of the first utility enclosure may include notches that at least partially engage an upper lip (or upper surface of the upper lip) of the second utility enclosure, to distribute a load between the utility enclosures and / or to prevent insertion of the first utility enclosure into the second utility enclosure beyond a certain depth into the second utility enclosure.

[0011] In embodiments, the utility enclosure includes interior ribs and / or interior grooves within an interior cavity defined within the body. The interior ribs and / or interior grooves can provide connection points for utility components (e.g., racks, lines, or other utility components) and / or dividers that are installed within the interior cavity. Where there are multiple utility enclosures stacked together, a bottom surface of a first utility enclosure can interconnect with or sit on top of interior ribs in a second utility enclosure, to distribute a load between the utility enclosures and / or to prevent insertion of the first utility enclosure into the second utility enclosure beyond a certain depth into the second utility enclosure.

[0012] In embodiments, the utility enclosure includes a lid that engages with the body. The lid may be seated within an opening in the upper lip of the utility enclosure. In some embodiments, an upper surface of the lid may be flush or substantially flush with the upper surface of the lip. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the lid sits above the upper surface of the lip and may extend beyond or outside the lip.

[0013] In embodiments, the utility enclosure includes lifting features to assist in the placement and / or removal of the utility enclosure at a job site. The lifting features may be integrated into the body of the utility enclosure such that the lifting features are monolithic with the enclosure body. An installer may engage the lifting features either directly (e.g., with hands) or indirectly (e.g., with tools, a hook, a handle, a bracket, a loop, a hoist, a rope or cable, or other device).

[0014] In embodiments where there are multiple utility enclosures, the multiple utility enclosures may be separately placed or placed together at the job site. For example, the multiple utility enclosures may have an interference fit, such that insertion of the bottom of a second utility enclosure into a top opening of a first utility enclosure causes the second utility enclosure to wedge within the first utility enclosure and allows for the installation of both the first utility enclosure and the second utility enclosure as a single unit or assembly. By way of another example, a first utility enclosure is installed at a job site, and then a bottom of a second utility enclosure is inserted into a top of the first utility enclosure at the location of installation, with the first utility enclosure already installed. It is noted this installation of the second utility enclosure may be substantially simultaneous with the installation of the first utility enclosure (e.g., during the same job), or at a different point in time (e.g., at a later point in time, such as where a first utility enclosure from a previous job has settled or increased in depth at the location of installation). It is contemplated that this modularity provides an increased benefit to a job site installer and / or maintainer, as the stackability of the individual utility enclosures can reduce the job installation time (e.g., via installation as a single unit or assembly, and / or by not having to excavate prior-installed utility enclosures that have sunk).

[0015] A first aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a subgrade utility enclosure, comprising a body having at least one wall and having a lip with an upper surface that defines an upper opening; an interior cavity defined by an inner surface of the body, wherein the interior cavity within the body is accessible via the upper opening; an upper ledge defined by the inner surface of the body, and the upper ledge is offset from the upper surface of the lip by a lip height; a plurality of exterior ribs extending from an outer surface of the body, wherein a first exterior rib of the plurality of exterior ribs has a first portion and a second portion, wherein the second portion has a width projecting from the outer surface of the body that is less than a width of the first portion to form a notch proximate to a bottom surface of the body; and wherein a height of the second portion of the first exterior rib is equal to or greater than the lip height.

[0016] The subgrade utility enclosure of the first aspect may include, optionally, that the first exterior rib extends from the lip to the bottom surface of the body, and the width of the first portion varies between a first width at an upper end of the first portion to a second width at a lower end of the first portion, wherein the second width is less than the first width, wherein the width of the second portion is a third width that is less than the second width to form the notch.

[0017] The subgrade utility enclosure of the first aspect may include one or more of the previous embodiments and, optionally, that the first portion of the first exterior rib continuously tapers from the first width to the second width.

[0018] The subgrade utility enclosure of the first aspect may include one or more of the previous embodiments and, optionally, that the third width of the second portion of the first exterior rib is constant between upper and lower ends of the second portion.

[0019] The subgrade utility enclosure of the first aspect may include one or more of the previous embodiments and, optionally, that a plurality of interior ribs extends inwardly from the inner surface of the body, wherein two interior ribs of the plurality of interior ribs define an interior dimension that is less than a width of the bottom surface of the body and less than a length of the bottom surface of the body.

[0020] The subgrade utility enclosure of the first aspect may include one or more of the previous embodiments and, optionally, that the at least one wall comprises two end walls and two sidewalls arranged in a rectangular configuration with the two end walls opposing each other, and the two sidewalls opposing each other.

[0021] The subgrade utility enclosure of the first aspect may include one or more of the previous embodiments and, optionally, that the first exterior rib of the plurality of exterior ribs extends from one of the sidewalls, and a second exterior rib of the plurality of exterior ribs extends from the opposing sidewall, wherein the second exterior rib has first and second portions to form a notch, and wherein a width of the upper opening is equal to or greater than a distance between respective second portions of the first and second exterior ribs.

[0022] The subgrade utility enclosure of the first aspect may include one or more of the previous embodiments and, optionally, that one of the sidewalls and one of the end walls are joined at a comer, wherein a comer exterior rib extends from the corner, and a width of the comer exterior rib continuously tapers from a first width at an upper end of the corner exterior rib to a smaller second width at a lower end of the comer exterior rib.

[0023] The subgrade utility enclosure of the first aspect may include one or more of the previous embodiments and, optionally, that a pitch between adjacent exterior ribs of the plurality of exterior ribs is constant along a perimeter of the two end walls and two sidewalls. The subgrade utility enclosure of the first aspect may include one or more of the previous embodiments and, optionally, that the body is formed as a monolithic structure.

[0024] The subgrade utility enclosure of the first aspect may include one or more of the previous embodiments and, optionally, that the bottom surface of the body defines a lower opening, and the interior cavity within the body is accessible via the lower opening.

[0025] A second aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a subgrade utility enclosure, comprising a body including a plurality of sidewalls, a plurality of end walls, a lip including an upper surface with an upper opening, and a bottom surface including a lower opening, an interior cavity defined by an inner surface of the body, wherein the interior cavity within the body is accessible via the upper opening; a plurality of interior ribs extending inwardly from the inner surface of the body, wherein two interior ribs of the plurality interior ribs define an interior dimension that is less than a width of the bottom surface of the body and less than a length of the bottom surface of the body; and a plurality of exterior ribs extending from an outer surface of the body, each exterior rib of the plurality of exterior ribs having a notch proximate to the bottom surface of the body, wherein the plurality of exterior ribs is adapted to engage a second lip of a second subgrade utility enclosure to distribute a load to the second subgrade utility enclosure.

[0026] The subgrade utility enclosure of the second aspect may include, optionally, that the bottom surface of the body is operable to engage a second plurality of interior ribs of the second subgrade utility enclosure to distribute a load to the second subgrade utility enclosure.

[0027] The subgrade utility enclosure of the second aspect may include one or more of the previous embodiments and, optionally, that each exterior rib of the plurality of exterior ribs comprises a first portion and a second portion, wherein the second portion has a width projecting from the outer surface of the body that is less than a width of the first portion to form the notch.

[0028] The subgrade utility enclosure of the second aspect may include one or more of the previous embodiments and, optionally, that a height of the second portion is no more than 20% of a height of the first portion.

[0029] The subgrade utility enclosure of the second aspect may include one or more of the previous embodiments and, optionally, an aperture extending through the body between adjacent exterior ribs of the plurality of exterior ribs. The subgrade utility enclosure of the second aspect may include one or more of the previous embodiments and, optionally, an aperture extending through the body proximate to the bottom surface of the body.

[0030] A third aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a subgrade utility system, comprising a first subgrade utility enclosure with a first body including a first upper opening in a first lip, a first lower opening in a first bottom surface, a first plurality of exterior ribs, and a first plurality of interior ribs, wherein the first body defines a first interior cavity; a second subgrade utility enclosure with a second body including a second upper opening in a second lip, a second lower opening in a second bottom surface, a second plurality of exterior ribs, and a second plurality of interior ribs, wherein the second body defines a second interior cavity; wherein the first bottom surface of the first body is operable to engage the second plurality of interior ribs in the second interior cavity in the second body of the second subgrade utility enclosure when the first subgrade utility enclosure is positioned on the second subgrade utility enclosure; wherein the first plurality of exterior ribs of the first body is operable to engage the second lip of the second subgrade utility enclosure when the first subgrade utility enclosure is positioned on the second subgrade utility enclosure; and wherein the engaging of the first bottom surface of the first body and the second plurality of interior ribs and the engaging of the first plurality of exterior ribs of the first body and the second lip of the second subgrade utility enclosure distributes a load applied by the first subgrade utility enclosure to the second subgrade utility enclosure.

[0031] The subgrade utility system of the third aspect may include, optionally, that the first interior cavity and the second interior cavity to form a combined interior cavity when the first subgrade utility enclosure is positioned on the second subgrade utility enclosure.

[0032] The subgrade utility system of the third aspect may include one or more of the previous embodiments and, optionally, that each of the first plurality of exterior ribs includes a notch that is operable to engage the second lip of the second subgrade utility enclosure when the first subgrade utility enclosure is positioned on the second subgrade utility enclosure.

[0033] The subgrade utility system of the third aspect may include one or more of the previous embodiments and, optionally, that the first subgrade utility enclosure and the second subgrade utility enclosure are each fabricated from a blended polypropylene material.

[0034] An aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a subgrade utility system. The subgrade utility system comprises a subgrade utility enclosure with a body including a plurality of sidewalls, a plurality of end walls, a lip including an upper surface with an upper opening, and a bottom surface including a lower opening. The plurality of sidewalls and the plurality of end walls define an interior cavity within the body that is accessible via the upper opening. The body includes a plurality of interior ribs formed within the defined interior cavity. The bottom surface of the body is operable to engage a second plurality of interior ribs in a second interior cavity defined within a second body of a second subgrade utility enclosure when the subgrade utility enclosure is positioned on the second subgrade utility enclosure. The engaging of the bottom surface of the body and the second plurality of interior ribs distributes a load applied by the subgrade utility enclosure on the second subgrade utility enclosure.

[0035] In some embodiments, the subgrade utility system includes a divider operable to engage a groove defined by the plurality of interior ribs within the defined interior cavity of the body. The divider separates the defined interior cavity into a plurality of interior cavity portions.

[0036] In some embodiments, the subgrade utility system includes a lid installable on the subgrade utility enclosure. The upper opening in the lip is operable to engage the lid.

[0037] In some embodiments, the body of the subgrade utility enclosure includes a plurality of exterior ribs formed on the plurality of sidewalls and the plurality of end walls. Each of the plurality of exterior ribs includes a notch that is operable to engage a second lip of the second subgrade utility enclosure when the subgrade utility enclosure is positioned on the second subgrade utility enclosure.

[0038] In some embodiments, at least one of the subgrade utility enclosure and the second subgrade utility enclosure is formed as a monolithic enclosure.

[0039] In some embodiments, the subgrade utility enclosure comprises a wall aperture in at least one end wall of the plurality of end walls. The interior cavity defined within the body is accessible via the wall aperture. In some embodiments, the wall aperture is positioned at a predetermined distance from the bottom of the utility enclosure during fabrication of the body of the utility enclosure. In some embodiments, the wall aperture is positioned at the bottom of the utility enclosure during fabrication of the body of the utility enclosure.

[0040] In some embodiments, the subgrade utility enclosure comprises a knockout in at least one end wall of the plurality of end walls. The interior cavity defined within the body is accessible via the knockout. In some embodiments, the subgrade utility enclosure comprises a plurality of lifting features formed on the exterior of the body. The plurality of lifting features is engageable to move the subgrade utility enclosure when the subgrade utility enclosure is positioned below a ground surface.

[0041] Another aspect of the disclosure is directed to a subgrade utility system. The subgrade utility system includes a subgrade utility enclosure with a body including a plurality of sidewalls, a plurality of end walls, a lip including an upper surface with an upper opening, and a bottom surface including a lower opening. The plurality of sidewalls and the plurality of end walls define an interior cavity within the body that is accessible via the upper opening. The body includes a plurality of interior ribs formed within the defined interior cavity. The body includes a plurality of exterior ribs formed on the plurality of sidewalls and the plurality of end walls. Each of the plurality of exterior ribs includes a notch that is operable to engage a second lip of a second subgrade utility enclosure when the subgrade utility enclosure is interconnected with the second subgrade utility enclosure.

[0042] In some embodiments, the bottom surface of the body is operable to engage a second plurality of interior ribs in a second interior cavity defined within a second body of the second subgrade utility enclosure when the subgrade utility enclosure is positioned on the second subgrade utility enclosure. The engaging of the bottom surface of the body and the second plurality of interior ribs distributes a load applied by the subgrade utility enclosure on the second subgrade utility enclosure.

[0043] In some embodiments, the plurality of exterior ribs includes a first width that tapers to a second width along the length of each of the plurality of exterior ribs, and the notch defines a third width that is less than the second width in each of the plurality of exterior ribs.

[0044] In some embodiments, a sidewall of the plurality of sidewalls and an end wall of the plurality of end walls are connected by a comer. A second plurality of exterior ribs are formed on the comer. The second plurality of exterior ribs include a first width that tapers to a second width along the length of each of the second plurality of exterior ribs.

[0045] Another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a subgrade utility system. The subgrade utility system comprises a first subgrade utility enclosure with a first body including a first upper opening in a first lip, a first lower opening in a first bottom surface, a first plurality of exterior ribs, and a first plurality of interior ribs, where the first body defines a first interior cavity. The subgrade utility system comprises a second subgrade utility enclosure with a second body including a second upper opening in a second lip, a second lower opening in a second bottom surface, a second plurality of exterior ribs, and a second plurality of interior ribs, where the second body defines a second interior cavity. The first bottom surface of the first body is operable to engage the second plurality of interior ribs in the second interior cavity defined within the second body of the second subgrade utility enclosure when the first subgrade utility enclosure is positioned on the second subgrade utility enclosure. The engaging of the first bottom surface of the first body and the second plurality of interior ribs distributes a load applied by the first subgrade utility enclosure on the second subgrade utility enclosure.

[0046] In some embodiments, the first lower opening and the second upper opening are operable to interconnect the first interior cavity and the second interior cavity to form a combined interior cavity when the first subgrade utility enclosure is positioned on the second subgrade utility enclosure.

[0047] In some embodiments, each of the first plurality of exterior ribs includes a notch that is operable to engage the second lip of the second subgrade utility enclosure when the first subgrade utility enclosure is positioned on the second subgrade utility enclosure.

[0048] In some embodiments, the first subgrade utility enclosure and the second subgrade utility enclosure are each configured to meet ANSI / SCTE 77 2023 standards for Tier 15 applications.

[0049] In some embodiments, the first subgrade utility enclosure and the second subgrade utility enclosure are each configured to meet ANSI / SCTE 77 2023 standards for Tier 22 applications.

[0050] In some embodiments, the first subgrade utility enclosure and the second subgrade utility enclosure are each fabricated from a blended polypropylene material.

[0051] Examples of utility boxes, utility vaults, other subgrade enclosures, and lids or caps for the like may be found in U.S. Patent No. 4,863,059, issued September 5, 1989; U.S. Patent No. 7,163,352, issued January 16, 2007; U.S. Patent No. 7,748,926, issued July 6, 2010; U.S. Patent No. 8,061,928, issued November 22, 2011; U.S. Design Patent No. D662,323, issued June 26, 2012; U.S. Design Patent No. D654,693, issued February 28, 2012; U.S. Design Patent No. D682,553, issued May 21, 2013; U.S. Patent No. 8,469,628, issued June 25, 2013; U.S. Patent No. 8,821,062, issued September 2, 2014; U.S. patent No. 8,827,589, issued September 9, 2014; U.S. Patent No. 8,835,757, issued September 16, 2014; U.S. Patent No. 9,174,798, issued November 3, 2015; U.S. Patent No. 9,284,711, issued March 15, 2016; U.S. Patent No. 9,346,593, issued May 24, 2016; U.S. Patent No. 9,435,099, issued September 6, 2016; U.S. Patent No. 9,919,853, issued March 20, 2018; U.S. Patent No. 9,932,157, issued April 3, 2018; U.S. Patent No. 10,132,052, issued November 20, 2018; U.S. Patent No. 10,136,530, issued November 20, 2018; U.S. Patent No. 10,197,088, issued February 5, 2019; U.S. Design Patent No. D841,279, issued February 19, 2019; U.S. Patent No. 10,240,316, issued March 26, 2019; U.S. Patent No. 10,947,693, issued March 16, 2021; and U.S. Patent No. 11,066,803, issued July 20, 2021, each of which are incorporated herein in their entireties.

[0052] The Summary is neither intended nor should it be construed as being representative of the full extent and scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is set forth in various levels of detail in the Summary as well as in the attached drawings and the Detailed Description and no limitation as to the scope of the present disclosure is intended by either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summary. Additional aspects of the present disclosure will become clearer from the Detailed Description, particularly when taken together with the drawings.

[0053] The phrases “at least one,” “one or more,” and “and / or,” as used herein, are open- ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For example, each of the expressions “at least one of A, B and C,” “at least one of A, B, or C,” “one or more of A, B, and C,” “one or more of A, B, or C,” and “A, B, and / or C” means A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B and C together.

[0054] The term “a” or “an” entity, as used herein, refers to one or more of that entity. As such, the terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more” and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein.

[0055] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, dimensions, conditions, ratios, ranges, and so forth used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “substantially” or “about” or “approximately”. When used with a number or a range, the terms “substantially” or “about” and “approximately” indicate the number or range may be “a little above” or “a little below” the endpoint with a degree of flexibility as would be generally recognized by those skilled in the art. Further, the terms “substantially” or “about” and “approximately” may include the exact endpoint, unless specifically stated otherwise. Accordingly, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, dimensions, conditions, ratios, angles, ranges, and so forth used in the specification and claims may be increased or decreased by approximately 5% to achieve satisfactory results, such as in non-limiting examples where the term “substantially” is used. Additionally, where the meaning of the terms “about” or “approximately” as used herein would not otherwise be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, the terms “about” and “approximately” should be interpreted as meaning within plus or minus 10% of the stated value.

[0056] The term “parallel” means two objects are oriented at an angle within plus or minus 0° to 5° unless otherwise indicated. Similarly, the term “perpendicular” means two objects are oriented at angle of from 85° to 95° unless otherwise indicated.

[0057] All ranges described herein may be reduced to any sub-range or portion of the range, or to any value within the range without deviating from the invention. For example, the range “5 to 55” includes, but is not limited to, the sub-ranges “5 to 20” as well as “17 to 54.”

[0058] The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Accordingly, the terms “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof can be used interchangeably herein.

[0059] It shall be understood that the term “means” as used herein shall be given its broadest possible interpretation in accordance with 35 U.S.C. § 112(f). Accordingly, a claim incorporating the term “means” shall cover all structures, materials, or acts set forth herein, and all of the equivalents thereof. Further, the structures, materials, or acts and the equivalents thereof shall include all those described in the Summary, Brief Description of the Drawings, Detailed Description, Abstract, and Claims themselves.

[0060] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0061] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosed system and together with the general description of the disclosure given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of the disclosed system(s) and device(s).

[0062] Fig. 1 A is a top perspective view of a stackable utility enclosure, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0063] Fig. IB is a bottom perspective view of the stackable utility enclosure of Fig. 1 A;

[0064] Fig. 1C is a top plan view, including section lines 2-2 and 3-3, of the stackable utility enclosure of Fig. 1A;

[0065] Fig. 2 is a cross-section view of the stackable utility enclosure taken at line 2-2 of Fig. 1C; Fig. 3 is a cross-section view of the stackable utility enclosure taken at line 3-3 of Fig. 1C;

[0066] Fig. 4 is a top perspective view of a different embodiment of the stackable utility enclosure of Fig. 1 A, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0067] Fig. 5 is a top perspective view of a different embodiment of the stackable utility enclosure of Fig. 1 A, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0068] Fig. 6A is a top perspective view of a section of the stackable utility enclosure of Fig. 1 A, including portion 7-7, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0069] Fig. 6B is the stackable utility enclosure of Fig. 6A with a divider;

[0070] Fig. 6C is the stackable utility enclosure of Fig. 6C with a lid;

[0071] Fig. 7 is an enlarged view of portion 7-7 of Fig. 6A showing a portion of the stackable utility enclosure;

[0072] Fig. 8A is a top perspective view of two stackable utility enclosures in a stacked configuration, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0073] Fig. 8B is a bottom perspective view of a section of the two stackable utility enclosures in the stacked configuration of Fig. 8 A, including portion 9-9;

[0074] Fig. 9 is an enlarged view of portion 9-9 of Fig. 8B showing a portion of the two stackable utility enclosures;

[0075] Fig. 10A is a top perspective view of a stackable utility enclosure, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0076] Fig. 10B is a bottom perspective view of the stackable utility enclosure of Fig. 10A;

[0077] Fig. IOC is a top plan view, including section lines 11-11 and 12-12, of the stackable utility enclosure of Fig. 10A;

[0078] Fig. 11 is a cross-section view of the stackable utility enclosure taken at line 11-11 of Fig. IOC;

[0079] Fig. 12 is a cross-section view of the stackable utility enclosure taken at line 12-12 of Fig. IOC;

[0080] Fig. 13 A is a top perspective view of two stackable utility enclosures in a stacked configuration, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0081] Fig. 13B is a bottom perspective view of a section of the two stackable utility enclosures in the stacked configuration of Fig. 13A, including portion 14-14; and Fig. 14 is an enlarged view of portion 14-14 of Fig. 13B showing a portion of the two stackable utility enclosures.

[0082] The drawings are not necessarily to scale. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the disclosure or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course, that the disclosure is not necessarily limited to the embodiments illustrated herein. As will be appreciated, other embodiments are possible using, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described below. For example, it is contemplated that various features and devices shown and / or described with respect to one embodiment may be combined with or substituted for features or devices of other embodiments regardless of whether or not such a combination or substitution is specifically shown or described herein.

[0083] In the following description of various embodiments, components of the utility enclosures of different embodiments are identified by the same reference numbers. Those corresponding components between two embodiments that are different in at least some respects are identified by the same reference number but may include a suffix such as a letter (e.g., 4 versus 4A, etc.).

[0084] The following is a listing of components according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, and as shown in the drawings:

[0085] Number Component

[0086] 100, 100A, 100B Utility Enclosure

[0087] 102 Body

[0088] 104 Sidewall

[0089] 106 End Wall

[0090] 108 Corner

[0091] 110 Interi or C avity

[0092] 111 Interior Cavity Portion

[0093] 112 Upper Opening

[0094] 114 Lip

[0095] 116 Lower Opening

[0096] 118 Exterior Rib

[0097] 120 Exterior Rib

[0098] 122 First Portion of Exterior Rib 123A First Width

[0099] 123B Second Width

[0100] 124 Second Portion of Exterior Rib

[0101] 125 Third Width

[0102] 126 Notch

[0103] 127A Height (First Portion)

[0104] 127B Height (Second Portion)

[0105] 128 Interior Cavity Surface

[0106] 129 Exterior Surface of Body

[0107] 130 Total Length

[0108] 132 Total Width

[0109] 134 Total Height

[0110] 136 Lower Surface of B ody

[0111] 138 Upper Surface of Lip

[0112] 140 Lip Height

[0113] 142 Outer Radius

[0114] 144 Inner Radius

[0115] 146 Upper Opening Length

[0116] 148 Upper Opening Width

[0117] 150 Lower Opening Length

[0118] 152 Lower Opening Width

[0119] 154 Upper Interior Cavity Length

[0120] 156 Upper Interior Cavity Width

[0121] 158 Lower Interior Cavity Length

[0122] 160 Lower Interior Cavity Width

[0123] 161 Notch-to-Notch Dimension

[0124] 162 Upper Ledge

[0125] 163 Notch-to-Notch Dimension

[0126] 164 Latch Cutout

[0127] 166 First Latch Distance

[0128] 168 Second Latch Distance

[0129] 170 Wall Thickness

[0130] 172 Lower Ledge 174 Fins

[0131] 176 Lower Ledge Surface

[0132] 178 Wall Portion

[0133] 179 Wall Aperture

[0134] 180 Wall Aperture

[0135] 181 Knockout

[0136] 182 Lifting Feature

[0137] 183 Rib-to-Rib Pitch

[0138] 184 Lifting Feature Portion

[0139] 185 Rib Thickness

[0140] 200 Subgrade Utility System

[0141] 202 Interior Rib

[0142] 203 Interior Groove

[0143] 204 Divider

[0144] 205 Rack Apertures

[0145] 206 Lid

[0146] 207 Interior Rib Width Dimension

[0147] 208 Upper Lid Surface

[0148] 210 Lower Ledge

[0149] 212 Lower Ledge Surface

[0150] 214 Cutout

[0151] 216 Cutout

[0152] 218 Lower Ledge Portion

[0153] 300 Subgrade Utility System

[0154] 302 Utility Enclosure

[0155] 304 Utility Enclosure

[0156] 400 Utility Enclosure

[0157] 402 Body

[0158] 404 Sidewall

[0159] 406 End Wall

[0160] 408 Corner

[0161] 410 Interior Cavity

[0162] 412 Upper Opening 414 Lip

[0163] 416 Lower Opening

[0164] 418 Exterior Rib

[0165] 420 Exterior Rib

[0166] 422 First Portion of Exterior Rib

[0167] 423A First Width

[0168] 423B Second Width

[0169] 424 Second Portion of Exterior Rib

[0170] 425 Third Width

[0171] 426 Notch

[0172] 427 Height

[0173] 428 Interior Cavity Surface

[0174] 429 Exterior Surface of Body

[0175] 430 Total Length

[0176] 432 Total Width

[0177] 434 Total Height

[0178] 436 Lower Surface of Body

[0179] 438 Upper Surface of Lip

[0180] 440 Lip Height

[0181] 442 Outer Radius

[0182] 444 Inner Radius

[0183] 446 Upper Opening Length

[0184] 448 Upper Opening Width

[0185] 40 Lower Opening Length

[0186] 452 Lower Opening Width

[0187] 454 Upper Interior Cavity Length

[0188] 456 Upper Interior Cavity Width

[0189] 458 Lower Interior Cavity Length

[0190] 460 Lower Interior Cavity Width

[0191] 461 Notch-to-Notch Dimension

[0192] 462 Upper Ledge

[0193] 463 Notch-to-Notch Dimension

[0194] 464 Latch Cutout 466 First Latch Distance

[0195] 468 Second Latch Distance

[0196] 40 Wall Thickness

[0197] 472 Lower Ledge

[0198] 474 Fins

[0199] 476 Lower Ledge Surface

[0200] 478 Wall Portion

[0201] 479 Wall Aperture

[0202] 480 Wall Aperture

[0203] 481 Wall Aperture

[0204] 482 Lifting Feature

[0205] 484 Lifting Feature Portion

[0206] 502 Interior Rib

[0207] 503 Interior Groove

[0208] 505 Rack Apertures

[0209] 507 Interior Rib Width Dimension

[0210] 510 Lower Ledge

[0211] 512 Lower Ledge Surface

[0212] 514 Cutout

[0213] 516 Cutout

[0214] 518 Lower Ledge Portion

[0215] 520 Wall Aperture

[0216] 522 Rib-to-Rib Pitch

[0217] 524 Rib Thickness

[0218] 600 Subgrade Utility System

[0219] 602 Utility Enclosure

[0220] 604 Utility Enclosure

[0221] DETAILED DESCRIPTION The present disclosure generally relates to stackable utility enclosures. In particular, the present disclosure relates to utility enclosures for providing an enclosed region beneath a ground surface for subgrade utilities such as electrical utilities, communications, mechanical wiring, and water fixtures, where the utility enclosures are stackable when above-ground or installed underground.

[0222] Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a stackable utility enclosure (or subgrade utility enclosure). The utility enclosure includes a body with at least an upper opening. The body additionally includes a plurality of exterior ribs. Where there are multiple utility enclosures, the multiple utility enclosures are dimensioned to be stackable. A portion of the exterior ribs of a first utility enclosure may be inserted into and / or engage with an upper opening of a second utility enclosure, such that movement is reduced or inhibited between the first utility enclosure and the second utility enclosure when stacked. For example, the exterior ribs of the first utility enclosure may include notches that engage a lip surrounding the upper opening of the second utility enclosure.

[0223] Optionally, interior ribs and / or grooves may be included in an interior cavity defined within the body of the utility enclosure. The interior ribs may form grooves configured to receive or interconnect with a divider (e.g., a rack, plate, or other structure) that separates the enclosure into two sections within the defined interior cavity. Alternatively, the grooves formed by the interior ribs may assist with racking electrical components put into the enclosure. Where multiple utility enclosures are stacked, the interior ribs may be configured to prevent the first utility enclosure from being inserted too far into an upper opening of the second utility enclosure, either in addition to or instead of the notches of the first utility enclosure engaging the lip of the second utility enclosure. The interior ribs of one enclosure also share the load of a second enclosure stacked onto the first enclosure because a portion of the second enclosure sits on the interior ribs of the first enclosure.

[0224] The utility enclosures may include a lower opening. For example, where the first utility enclosure includes the lower opening, a combined interior cavity may be defined between the stacked bodies of the first utility enclosure and the second utility enclosure.

[0225] The upper opening is additionally dimensioned to receive or interconnect with a lid. In some instances, an upper surface of the lid may be flush or substantially flush with an upper surface of the body (e.g., an upper surface of the lip surrounding the upper opening). The upper surfaces may be placed at (or substantially at) grade when the utility enclosure is inserted into a ground surface. Alternatively, the lid may fit above and around the upper surface and upper lip of the enclosure.

[0226] In addition, an exterior portion of the utility enclosure may optionally include lifting features, which may be integrated with the body or separate components attached to the body of the utility enclosure. The lifting features are usable to install and / or remove the utility enclosure below grade at a job site. For example, a rope can be positioned around the enclosure and held in place by the lifting features such that the enclosure can be lowered into the hole at the job site or lifted out of the hole at the job site.

[0227] Figs. 1A-1C generally illustrate a utility enclosure 100, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. For purposes of the present disclosure, “utility enclosure,” “utility vault,” or “vault” may be considered equivalent and may be used interchangeably.

[0228] The utility enclosure 100 includes a body 102 with sidewalls 104, end walls 106, and comers 108. At least some of the sidewalls 104, the end walls 106, and the comers 108 define an interior cavity 110 within the body 102. In other words, an inner surface of the body 102 can define the interior cavity 110. The interior cavity 110 is accessible via an upper opening 112 (or first opening 112) within a lip 114 at a top of the body 102.

[0229] In some embodiments, the body 102 may be formed as a monolithic or one-piece construction (e.g., within a single or one-piece fabrication mold or cast). The monolithic structure results in a stronger body 102 than if a utility enclosure were constructed from separate components connected prior to shipment or on-site. In addition, the monolithic structure may reduce the ingress of unwanted dirt, etc. into the defined interior cavity 110, as compared to additional gaps that may occur within seams between components that are coupled together to form a utility enclosure. However, it should be understood that the body 102 may be fabricated as multiple components (e.g., to reduce complexity and costs of the forming mold or cast used for manufacturing), where the multiple components may be coupled together to form the body 102, and that optional gaskets or other seals (or sealants) may be installed between or proximate to the gaps between the multiple components, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0230] In some embodiments, the body 102 includes a lower opening 116 (or second opening 116), such that the utility enclosure 100 is open to the surrounding environment at the bottom. For example, the lower opening 116 may be beneficial where drainage is desired from the interior cavity 110 and into the surrounding environment, such as where water collects within the body 102. In some instances, the utility enclosure 100 may be installed with rocks / gravel positioned at the bottom of the interior cavity 110 or rocks / gravel positioned below the bottom surface of the enclosure, where the rocks / gravel allow water to gradually sift through and enter the surrounding dirt, similar to a French drain configuration. By way of another example, the lower opening 116 may be beneficial where multiple utility enclosures 100 are stacked, such that a lower utility enclosure 100 in the stack is accessible through an upper utility enclosure 100 in the stack, as described in detail further herein. However, it is contemplated that the body 102 may include a solid or nearly-solid bottom surface without the lower opening 116, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0231] The body 102 includes exterior ribs 118 on the sidewalls 104 and / or the end walls 106. In addition, the body 102 includes exterior ribs 120 on the corners 108. It is noted that the exterior ribs 118, 120 may be similar or different in design, shape, size, and number without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0232] Figs. 2 and 3 illustrate the utility enclosure 100 at the cross-section lines 2-2 and 3- 3 in Fig. 1C, respectively, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In one non-limiting example, the exterior ribs 118 may include a first portion 122 that tapers from a first width 123 A to a second width 123B, the first width 123 A being bigger than the second width 123B, and a second portion 124 that includes a notch 126 that effectively changes the width of the exterior rib 118 from the second width 123B to a third width 125 that is smaller than the second width 123B. In some instances, as illustrated in Figs. 2 and 3, the first width 123 A proximate to the lip 114 is greater than the second width 123B, and the second width 123B is greater than the third width 125 proximate to the lower opening 116, relative to an exterior or outer surface 129 of the body 102.

[0233] In some embodiments, the first portion 122 may taper in a continuous manner along a height 127A of the first portion 122 between the first width 123A at an upper end of the exterior rib 118 and the second width 123B at a lower end of the exterior rib 118. In other embodiments, the first portion 122 may taper in a non-continuous manner along the height 127A between the first width 123 A at an upper end of the exterior rib 118 and the second width 123B at a lower end of the exterior rib 118.

[0234] In some embodiments, the third width 125 of the second portion 124 may be constant along a height 127B of the second portion 124. In other embodiments, the third width 125 may vary in a continuous manner between upper and lower ends of the section portion 124. In further embodiments, the third width 125 may vary in a non-continuous manner between upper and lower ends of the section portion 124.

[0235] As depicted, the exterior ribs 118 extend from the lip 114 to a lower or bottom surface 136 of the body 102. However, it will be appreciated that the exterior ribs 118 may be offset from these features 114, 136 or extend to other features. Furthermore, the relationship between the height 127 A of the first portion 122 and the height 127B of the second portion 124 can be critical to the utility enclosure 100. The second portion 124 is expected to be partially positioned within a second utility enclosure to engage a second lip when stacking multiple utility enclosures. Accordingly, if the height 127B of the second portion 124 relative to the height 127A of the first portion 122 is too small, then multiple utility enclosures may be unstable when stacked together. Conversely, if the relative height 127B of the second portion 124 is too large, then the combined interior volume of the multiple utility enclosures is smaller than it otherwise could be, wasting materials of the utility enclosures and increasing costs when a certain combined interior volume is desired. Thus, in some embodiments, the height 127B of the second portion 124 is between approximately 5-25% of the height 127A of the first portion 122. In various embodiments, the height 127B of the second portion 124 is between 10-20% (or no more than 20%) of the height 127 A of the first portion 122 to make stable stacked utility enclosures while expanding the usable combined interior volume of the stacked utility enclosures.

[0236] In another non-limiting example, similar to the exterior ribs 118, the exterior ribs 120 may taper from a first width to a second width that is smaller than the first width. Some exterior ribs 120 do not include a second portion 124 with a notch 126. In various embodiments, the non-notched exterior ribs 120 may have a steeper taper than the exterior ribs 118 with a notch 126, meaning that the first width of both exterior ribs 118, 120 may be the same but the second width of the notched exterior rib 118 may be larger than the second width of the non-notched exterior rib 120. It is possible that the second width of the non-notched exterior rib 120 may be the same as or similar to the third width of the notched exterior rib 118.

[0237] In some instances, as illustrated in Figs. 2 and 3, the first width proximate to the lip 114 is greater than the second width proximate to the lower opening 116, relative to the exterior surface 129 of the body 102. It is noted that the taper of the exterior ribs 118 and / or 120 may be beneficial to assist in removing the utility enclosure 100 from a forming mold or cast during manufacturing, such as where the utility enclosure 100 is of a monolithic or one-piece construction.

[0238] Different types of exterior ribs 118, 120 may be used at different parts of the utility enclosure 100 to serve the various benefits described herein. In some embodiments, the body 102 is formed from four walls arranged in a rectangle, and the walls are joined at comers, which can be inherently stiffer, more rigid, and less prone to structural failure. The nonnotched exterior ribs 120 are smaller and have less structure than notched exterior ribs 118, and, thus, non-notched exterior ribs 120 can be placed at the corners which may need some support. The notched exterior ribs 118 are larger and have more structure than the nonnotched ribs 120, and, thus, the notched exterior ribs 118 provide more support. Thus, the notched exterior ribs 118 can be placed along the lengths of the end walls and / or sidewalls to support the parts of the body 102 that need additional support. The combined use of these different types of exterior ribs 118, 120 balances providing sufficient support while minimizing material, weight, and cost. While a rectangular body 102 is depicted and the different types of exterior ribs 118, 120 can be arranged in this manner, it will be appreciated that the present disclosure encompasses other embodiments with other shapes of the body 102 and / or different configurations of exterior ribs 118, 120.

[0239] The utility enclosure 100 has a total length 130 between opposing exterior surfaces of the lip 114 proximate to (or corresponding to) the end walls 106. In addition, the utility enclosure 100 has a total width 132 between opposing exterior surfaces of the lip 114 proximate to (or corresponding to) the sidewalls 104. Further, the utility enclosure 100 has a total height 134 between a lower surface 136 at a bottom of the body 102 (e.g., in which the lower opening 116 is positioned if there is a lower opening) and an upper surface 138 of the lip 114 (e.g., in which the upper opening 112 is positioned).

[0240] The lip 114 has a lip height 140. Where the upper surface 138 of the lip 114 has a non-zero width, the portions of the lip 114 proximate to (or corresponding to) the corners 108 are defined by an outer radius 142 and an inner radius 144 relative to a respective center point for the radius of curvature.

[0241] The upper opening 112 has an upper opening length 146 and an upper opening width 148. Where there is a lower opening 116, the lower opening 116 has a lower opening length 150 and a lower opening width 152.

[0242] The interior cavity 110 has a length and a width defined between respective opposing interior cavity surfaces 128. In some embodiments, the interior cavity surfaces 128 may be parallel, substantially parallel, or sloped or angled between the lower surface 136 of the body 102 and the upper surface 138 of the lip 114. In one non-limiting example, as illustrated in Figs. 2 and 3, the interior cavity surfaces 128 are sloped inward for at least a portion of the height of the interior cavity 110, such that the interior cavity has multiple lengths and widths along the height of the interior cavity 110. For instance, the interior cavity 110 has an upper interior cavity length 154 and an upper interior cavity width 156, and additionally has a lower interior cavity length 158 and a lower interior cavity width 160, with the sloped interior cavity surfaces 128. Due to the sloping of the interior cavity surfaces 128, the length 154 is greater than the length 158, and the width 156 is greater than the width 160. It is contemplated, however, that the interior cavity surfaces 128 may be parallel or substantially parallel to a vertical axis or plane of the enclosure 100, such that the interior cavity 110 as the same or substantially same length and width at any point along its height.

[0243] Also depicted in Fig. 3 is a notch-to-notch dimension 161 (or second portion-to- second portion dimension) between second portions of opposing exterior ribs 118. The upper opening width 148 is equal to or greater than this notch-to-notch dimension 161 such that when multiple encloses are stacked or nested, the second portions of the exterior ribs 118 rest on an upper ledge 162 of the body 102. This dimension 161 is a width dimension between opposing exterior ribs 118 on sidewalls 104, as depicted in Fig. 3. However, it will be appreciated that a notch-to-notch dimension 163 can be along a length direction between opposing exterior ribs 118 located on end walls 106, as depicted in Fig. 2. In this case, the upper opening length (146 in Fig. 2) is equal to or greater than a notch-to-notch dimension 163 along the length direction such that when multiple encloses are stacked or nested, the second portions of the exterior ribs 118 rest on an upper ledge 162 of the body 102.

[0244] In some embodiments, the upper ledge 162 of the body 102 is below the upper surface 138 of the lip 114. For example, the upper ledge 162 may be a predetermined distance below the upper surface 138. In some embodiments, the distance of the upper ledge 162 below the upper surface 138 is approximately equal to the lip height 140, or simply can be referred to as the lip height 140. In other embodiments, the distance of the upper ledge 162 below the upper surface 138 is approximately equal to the height of the notch 126 in exterior ribs 118. In various embodiments, the notch height 127B is equal to or greater than the lip height 140 to allow for the stacking or nesting of multiple enclosures 100 and to allow for the force distribution and other benefits described herein.

[0245] The upper ledge 162 is able to engage and / or support the lower surface 136 of the body 102 of a second enclosure and / or a lid, as described in detail further herein. In one non-limiting example, the upper ledge 162 includes a plurality of latch cutouts 164. The latch cutouts 164 are able to receive and / or couple to latch components of latch mechanisms (or other interlocking assemblies) to couple the lid to the body 102. In some embodiments, the latch cutouts 164 receive latch components of latch mechanisms (or other interlocking assemblies) to secure the bottom of one enclosure to the upper portion or upper ledge 162 of a second enclosure. In some instances where there are multiple latch cutouts 164, adjacent latch cutouts 164 of the plurality of latch cutouts 164 are separated by a first latch distance 166 (e.g., that corresponds to a length of the utility enclosure 100) or a second latch distance 168 (e.g., that corresponds to a width of the utility enclosure 100).

[0246] The sidewalls 104, the end walls 106, and / or the comers 108 of the body 102 are fabricated from a material having a wall thickness 170. It is noted that the wall thickness 170 may be uniform, substantially uniform, or differ in select regions in the body 102, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In some instances, differences in wall thickness 170 may balance a need for sufficient wall strength of the sidewalls 104, the end walls 106, and / or the comers 108 of the body 102, with a desire to reduce manufacturing costs and / or increase an ease of manufacturing (e.g., via forming molds or casts, or the like) of the utility enclosure 100.

[0247] In some embodiments, where the body 102 includes the lower surface 136 in which the lower opening 116 is located, the interior cavity 110 has a lower ledge 172. The lower ledge 172 may provide a transition between the interior cavity surfaces 128 and the lower opening 116. A plurality of fins 174 may be on the lower ledge 172. The plurality of fins 174 may join the interior cavity surfaces 128 with a lower ledge surface 176. For example, the fins 174 may provide additional rigidity and / or support to the body 102. In addition, the fins 174 may assist in removing the body 102 from a forming mold or cast during manufacturing, such as where the utility enclosure 100 is of a monolithic or one-piece construction.

[0248] It is noted herein that the respective lengths, widths, and / or heights may be the same or may be different, depending on the configuration of the utility enclosure 100.

[0249] In various embodiments, the exterior ribs 118 extend from a larger area or perimeter of the outer surface 129 of the body 102. As depicted, the exterior ribs 118 are relatively narrow projections from the outer surface 129 of the body 102 such that a larger portion of a perimeter of the body 102 is without exterior ribs 118 than the portion of the perimeter than has exterior ribs 118. It will be appreciated that the present disclosure encompasses embodiments where the exterior ribs 118 are wider projections, and a larger portion of the perimeter of the body 102 is covered by exterior ribs 118 than the portion of the perimeter that does not have exterior ribs 118. Moreover, in embodiments where the wall thickness 170 is uniform, the inner surface of the body 102 may inversely correspond the outer surface 129 of the body 102. Thus, each exterior rib 118 projecting outward from the outer surface 129 has a corresponding recess extending into the inner surface, which can aid in the stackability or nestability of multiple enclosures.

[0250] Figs. 4 and 5 generally illustrate utility enclosures 100A, 100B respectively, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. It is noted that embodiments or aspects directed to the utility enclosure 100 may be directed to the utility enclosures 100 A, 100B unless specifically noted, and vice versa, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0251] In some embodiments, the utility enclosures 100A, 100B include a wall portion 178 on a sidewall 104 and / or an end wall 106 that does not include exterior ribs 118. The wall portion 178 may include at least one wall aperture 179, wall aperture 180, and / or knockout 181 extending into the interior cavity 110 from the surrounding environment. For example, the at least one wall aperture 179, wall aperture 180, and / or knockout 181 may be able to receive and pass lines (e.g., power lines, data lines, water lines, etc.) from the surrounding environment and into the interior cavity 110. By way of another example, the at least one wall aperture 179, wall aperture 180, and / or knockout 181 may assist in drainage from the interior cavity 110 and into the surrounding environment. For instance, the at least one wall aperture 179 may assist in drainage to prevent the utility enclosures 100 from possibly floating within the hole at the job site, such as where the hole filled with water (e.g., due to a water table depth is closer to a ground surface than a depth of the utility enclosure 100). Although Figs. 4 and 5 are illustrated with the at least one wall aperture 179, wall aperture 180, and / or knockout 181 positioned in the end walls 106, it is contemplated that the sidewalls 104 may be additionally or alternatively fabricated with the wall portions 178 and at least one wall aperture 179, wall aperture 180, and / or knockout 181, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0252] As illustrated in Fig. 4, the wall aperture 179 may be positioned substantially at the bottom of an end wall 106 and extends to the bottom of the utility enclosure 100 A, such that the wall aperture 179 is in communication with both the interior cavity 110 and the lower opening 116 (not shown). In some instances, the utility enclosure 100A includes a wall aperture 179 in each of the end walls 106. The wall aperture 179 may be formed as part of the bottom of the body 102 during the fabrication process(es) to form the body 102 (e.g., as part of the forming mold or cast for the body 102). Also illustrated in the utility enclosure 100A of Fig. 4 are one or more knockouts 181. Knockouts 181 can be thinner than the wall portion 178 such that they can be knocked out in the field (e.g., using a hammer or other tool). Alternatively, the knockouts 181 can be the same thickness as the wall portion 178, but scorelines are drawn on the wall portion 178 to define the knockouts 181, which will also permit the knockouts 181 to be knocked out in the field (e.g., using a hammer or other tool).

[0253] Fig. 4 also depicts a rib-to-rib pitch 183, which is the distance between the centers of adjacent exterior ribs. This pitch 183 can be critical to the utility enclosure 100A. Too small of a pitch 183 will waste material, add unnecessary weight to the utility enclosure 110A, and increase costs. Too large of a pitch 183, and the utility enclosure 100A may not meet performance standards such as bearing a certain amount of load. This pitch 183 can be expressed relative to a perimeter of the body 102 of the utility enclosure 100 A, and the perimeter of the body 102 can be defined as the sum of the lengths of the sidewalls 104 and the widths of the end walls 106. Alternatively, the sum of twice the width of the body 102 and of twice the length of the body 102. In some embodiments, the pitch 183 is between approximately 2% and 4% of the perimeter of the body 102. In various embodiments, the pitch 183 is no more than 5%. The pitch 183 can be constant among all exterior ribs extending from the body 102. It will also be appreciated that the present disclosure encompasses embodiments where the pitch 183 varies among all exterior ribs extending from the body 102. For instance, the pitch 183 may vary at the corners between sidewalls 104 and end walls 106.

[0254] It is noted that the rib-to-rib pitch 183 may be the same for the exterior ribs 118 on the sidewalls 104, the exterior ribs 118 on the end walls 106, and / or the exterior ribs 120 on the comers 108, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Alternatively, it is noted that the rib-to-rib pitch 183 may be different for the exterior ribs 118 on the sidewalls 104, the exterior ribs 118 on the end walls 106, and / or the exterior ribs 120 on the corners 108, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0255] Also in general, it should be understood that the exterior ribs 118, 120 may have a rib thickness 185 within a desired range. For example, the range for the rib thickness 185 must be sufficiently large to accommodate apertures and / or other features of the utility enclosure 100. By way of another example, the range for the rib thickness 185 must be sufficiently small to meet or exceed load or strength requirements, as described in detail further herein. It is noted that the rib thickness 185 may be the same for the exterior ribs 118 on the sidewalls 104, the exterior ribs 118 on the end walls 106, and / or the exterior ribs 120 on the corners 108, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Alternatively, it is noted that the rib thickness 185 may be different for the exterior ribs 118 on the sidewalls 104, the exterior ribs 118 on the end walls 106, and / or the exterior ribs 120 on the corners 108, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0256] Although the present disclosure illustrates exemplary pitch 183 and thickness 185 for the exterior ribs 118, 120, it is noted that the pitch 183 and thickness 185 may vary depending on the shape, size, and / or dimensions of the utility enclosure 100, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. As such, the exemplary pitch 183 and thickness 185 should not be understood as limiting, but instead merely illustrative of the present disclosure.

[0257] As illustrated in Fig. 5, one or more wall apertures 180 may be positioned a predetermined distance from / above the bottom of the end wall 106, such that the wall aperture 180 is not connected to the bottom of the utility enclosure 100B and is only in communication with the interior cavity 110. In some instances, the utility enclosure 100B includes one or multiple wall apertures 180 in each of the end walls 106. The one or multiple wall apertures 180 may be formed with the end walls 106 as part of the forming mold or cast for the body 102, or may be cut into the end walls 106 in one or more subsequent fabrication processes after the fabrication process(es) to form the body 102.

[0258] In general, the wall apertures 179, wall apertures 180, and / or knockouts 181 are beneficial in that the wall apertures 179, wall apertures 180, and / or knockouts 181 provide access points with common or known industry conduit sizes to increase ease of installation of conduit and / or wiring through the sidewalls 104 and / or end walls 106 of the utility enclosures 100, 100A, 100B. In addition, the wall apertures 179, wall apertures 180, and / or knockouts 181 are beneficial in that the wall apertures 179, wall apertures 180, and / or knockouts 181 reduce manufacturing costs by reducing an amount of material necessary to manufacture the utility enclosures 100, 100 A, 100B.

[0259] In some embodiments, the body 102 includes a lifting feature 182. For example, the lifting feature 182 may be integrated with the body 102, such that it is formed with the body 102. By way of another example, the lifting feature 182 may be a separate component that is affixed to the body 102 during manufacturing or prior to installation at a job site. Further, the lifting feature 182 may be a separate component that is removably coupled to the body 102 during manufacturing or while in use at a job site.

[0260] It is noted that the lifting feature 182 may be engaged by an installer to move or reposition the utility enclosure 100, either directly (e.g., with hands) or indirectly (e.g., with tools, a hook, a handle, a bracket, a loop, a hoist, a rope or cable, or other device able to engage with and secure to the lifting feature 182. At least a portion 184 of the lifting feature 182 (e.g., such as a protrusion, fin, aperture, recess, etc.) is configured to not release from contact or interconnection unless a secondary external force is applied, to prevent possible loss of grip or control of the utility enclosure 100 when engaged during movement or repositioning.

[0261] In general, the lifting features 182 are beneficial in that the lifting features 182 increase the ease in which an installer can lift and place or position the utility enclosure. In addition, the lifting features 182 are beneficial in that the lifting features 182 increase the safety for an installer or other contractor to handle the utility enclosures 100 when transporting and / or installing.

[0262] Figs. 6A-6C generally illustrate a subgrade utility system 200 including the utility enclosure 100, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 7 is an enlarged view of portion 7-7 of Fig. 6A showing a portion of the stackable utility enclosure 100, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. It is noted that embodiments or aspects directed to the utility enclosure 100 in Figs. 1A-5 may be directed to the utility enclosure 100 in Figs. 6A-7 unless specifically noted, and vice versa, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0263] In Fig. 6A, the utility enclosure 100 includes a plurality of interior ribs 202 and / or a plurality of interior grooves 203. The interior ribs 202 may be integrated with (e.g., fabricated with) a sidewall 104 and / or an end wall 106, such as part of an interior cavity surface 128. It is noted, however, that the interior ribs 202 may be a separate component (e.g., a rib, rail, etc.) coupled to the interior cavity surface 128 (e.g., via hardware such as fasteners, an adhesive, etc.), without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The interior grooves 203 may be defined between adjacent interior ribs 202. It is noted, however, that the interior grooves 203 may be integrated with (e.g., fabricated with) a sidewall 104 and / or an end wall 106, such as within an interior cavity surface 128.

[0264] In one non-limiting example, the interior ribs 202 are protrusions from the interior cavity surface 128 to which a component of the subgrade utility system 200 installed within the interior cavity 110 is able to couple. The component of the subgrade utility system 200 may have a recess or other feature that, combined with the interior ribs 202, form an interlocking assembly of the subgrade utility system 200.

[0265] In another non-limiting example, the interior grooves 203 are recesses that are able to receive or interconnect with a component of the subgrade utility system 200 installed within the interior cavity 110. The component of the subgrade utility system 200 may have a protrusion or other feature that, combined with the interior grooves 203, form an interlocking assembly of the subgrade utility system 200.

[0266] In some embodiments, the sidewalls 104 and / or the end walls 106 have rack apertures 205 positioned proximate to one or more interior ribs 202 (e.g., beside a particular interior rib 202, and / or between adjacent sets of interior ribs 202). In general, the rack apertures 205 are beneficial to provide attachment points for accessories like cable racking. The rack apertures 205 allow an installer to install accessories without heavy equipment (e.g., for fiber slack storage). In addition, the rack apertures 205 increase the ease of manufacturing of the utility enclosure 100, such as where the holes are molded or cast into the sidewalls 104 and / or the end walls 106 rather than drilled. Further, the rack apertures 205 increase the safety for installers to add standard accessories and / or aftermarket accessories, as the rack apertures 205 are pre-cast or pre-molded into the sidewalls 104 and / or the end walls 106 rather than drilled.

[0267] In some embodiments, the interior ribs 202 may be positioned in pairs such that an interior groove 203 is formed between the pair of interior ribs 202. Additionally or alternatively, a pair of interior ribs 202 and its corresponding interior groove 203 may be in sets, with one of each (i.e., one pair of interior ribs 202 and its corresponding interior groove 203) being on opposite sidewalls 104 and / or end walls 106 to form a set. If a set is formed, then an article, such as a divider, could be positioned in each groove 203 and held on one side by one groove 203 and held on the other side by the other groove 203, such that the interior ribs 202 flanking the respective grooves 203 form a divider slot. It is noted, however, that the interior ribs 202 and / or interior grooves 203 may be standalone components, and / or may be used as a standalone component even if part of a set, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Further shown in Fig. 6A is an interior rib width dimension 207 between interior ribs 202 on opposite sidewalls 104. It will be appreciated that interior ribs 202 on opposite end walls 106 can also form an interior rib length dimension. The interior ribs 202 and / or interior grooves 203 may be able to receive or interconnect with additional components of the subgrade utility system 200. For example, the additional components may include, but are not limited to, brackets, boards, boxes or other housings, racks, and the like that hold lines (e.g., power lines, data lines, water lines, etc.) in place within the interior cavity 110. By way of another example, the additional components may include, but are not limited to, dividers to separate the interior cavity 110 into separate compartments.

[0268] In general, the divider slot (e.g., formed of opposite grooves 203 flanked by respective interior ribs 202) is beneficial in that the divider slot allows installers to install a divider without hardware. The divider may separate assets installed within the utility enclosure 100 including, but not limited to, assets owned by the same or different installers (e.g., power, telecom, cable, fiber optic, water, wastewater, or the like) within the same utility enclosure 100.

[0269] In some embodiments, the interior ribs 202 and / or interior grooves 203 are configured such that hardware (e.g., fasteners, brackets, etc.) are not required to install the additional components (e.g., such as a divider 204, described in detail further herein) within the interior cavity 110. This results in an easier, more efficient method of installing the additional components, as opposed to where hardware and / or tools or other devices may be necessary to couple the additional components to the utility enclosure 100. It is noted, however, that the interior ribs 202 and / or grooves 203 may be configured to receive or interconnect with any necessary or desired hardware, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0270] Referring now to Fig. 6B, the subgrade utility system 200 optionally includes the divider 204 that may be installed in the utility enclosure 100. It is noted that the divider 204 is shown in broken lines for purposes of clarity only, and is not intended on being limiting with respect to the present disclosure. The divider 204 may include, but is not limited to, a rack, plate, grate, or other structure. The divider 204 fits within (and / or couples to) the interior ribs 202 and / or interior grooves 203.

[0271] In some embodiments, the placement of the divider 204 within the interior cavity 110 defines different interior cavity portions 111. It is noted that any number of dividers 204 may be inserted into the utility enclosure 100, where the dividers 204 may define the interior cavity 110 into any number of interior cavity portions 111. It is contemplated that the divider 204 may allow for one or multiple utility providers to use the utility enclosure 100, including by separating different utility lines into the different interior cavity portions 111.

[0272] Referring now to Fig. 6C, the subgrade utility system 200 optionally includes a lid 206 that may be installed on the utility enclosure 100. It is noted that the lid 206 is shown in broken lines for purposes of clarity only, and is not intended on being limiting with respect to the present disclosure. In addition, the divider 204 and the lid 206 may be used separately or in combination with one another within the subgrade utility system 200, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0273] In some embodiments, the lid 206 may be positioned in the upper opening 112 located within the lip 114, such that the lid 206 is interconnected with the lip 114. In one non-limiting example, an upper lid surface 208 and the upper surface 138 of the lip 114 may be planar or substantially planar when the lid 206 is interconnected with the lip 114. Alternatively, the lid 206 may be positioned above and outside of the lip 114.

[0274] The lid 206 may rest on or otherwise engage the upper ledge 162. Alternatively, only a lower portion of the lid 206 may rest on the upper ledge 162 and another portion of the lid 206 may rest on the upper surface 138 of the lip 114. In some embodiments, the plurality of latch cutouts 164 are able to receive and / or couple to latch components of a latch mechanisms (or other interlocking assemblies) to couple the lid 206 to the body 102 within the upper opening 112. It is noted the latch mechanisms may include any hardware and / or fasteners, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0275] In some instances, the utility enclosure 100 may be positioned or inserted in a hole within or proximate to a ground surface (e.g., be below grade) or, more generally, be at least partially buried in the ground. For example, a portion of the utility enclosure 100 (e.g., the lip 114) and the lid 206 may be exposed above the ground, and a portion of the utility enclosure 100 may be buried or otherwise positioned in the ground. By way of another example, a portion of the lid 206 may be exposed above the ground, and a portion of the lid 206 and the entire utility enclosure 100 may be buried or otherwise positioned within the ground. By way of another example, a top surface of the lid 206 may be exposed (e.g., the top surface is flush to grade or below grade), with the remainder of the lid 206 and the entire utility enclosure 100 being buried or otherwise positioned within the ground. In one nonlimiting example, when the utility enclosure 100 is installed within a ground surface, the upper lid surface 208 and the upper surface 138 of the lip 114 may thus be positioned at grade such that the lid 206 does not present a tripping hazard or other obstacle when positioned within the upper opening 112.

[0276] Referring now to Fig. 7, the utility enclosure 100 includes a lower ledge 210. The lower ledge 210 may include a lower ledge surface 212 (e.g., within the interior cavity 110) and the lower surface 136 of the body 102. The lower ledge 210 may include cutouts 214 that extend into the lower ledge 210 from the lower ledge surface 212, and / or may include cutouts 216 that extend into the lower ledge 210 from the lower surface 136. The cutouts 214, 216 may be separated by a lower ledge portion 218, or alternatively form pass-through holes within the lower ledge 212. In some instances, the lower ledge 210 may have a height that is approximately equal to the height of the notch 126 in the exterior rib 118.

[0277] Figs. 8A and 8B generally illustrate a subgrade utility system 300 including utility enclosures 302 and 304, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 9 is an enlarged view of portion 9-9 of Fig. 8A showing a portion of the stackable utility enclosures 302 and 304, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. It is noted that embodiments or aspects directed to the utility enclosure 100 of Figs. 1A-7 and / or the subgrade utility system 200 in Figs. 6A-7 may be directed to the utility enclosures 302 and 304 of the subgrade utility system 300 of Figs. 8A- 9 unless specifically noted, and vice versa, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In particular, in some embodiments the utility enclosure 302 and / or 304 are largely identical to the utility enclosure 100, as described throughout the present disclosure. For example, the utility enclosure 302 and / or 304 may include wall apertures 179, wall apertures 180, and / or knockouts 181 in a wall portion 178.

[0278] The shape of the exterior ribs 118, 120 allow for increased ease of stacking multiple utility enclosures within the subgrade utility system 300. For example, the notches 126 of the exterior ribs 118 of the first utility enclosure 302 may be dimensioned to correspond to the lip 114 of the second utility enclosure 304, such that the notches 126 of the first utility enclosure 302 are able to receive or interconnect with the lip 114 of the second utility enclosure 304. By way of another example, the exterior ribs 120 of the first utility enclosure 302 may be tapered along their lengths, such that the end of the exterior ribs 120 proximate to the lower opening 116 (not shown) of the first utility enclosure 302 is able to fit within the upper opening 112 of the second utility enclosure 304, without need for a notch 126 as included on the exterior ribs 118. However, it is noted that the notch 126 provides an additional securing feature when the bottom of the first utility enclosure 302 is inserted into the upper opening 112 of the second utility enclosure 304. The mating (and potential contact or interconnection) between the exterior ribs 118 with notches 126 of the first utility enclosure 302 and the lip 114 of the second utility enclosure 304 in multiple directions reduces or inhibits movement of the first utility enclosure 302 relative to the second utility enclosure 304 in any given direction.

[0279] In addition, it is noted that the interior ribs 202 may provide an additional support feature. For example, the interior ribs 202 may assist in distributing a load applied by the utility enclosure 302 stacked on the utility enclosure 304, in addition to the load distribution that can occur via the interconnection of the exterior ribs 118, 120 of the utility enclosure 302 and the lip 114 of the utility enclosure 304. By way of another example, when the first utility enclosure 302 is inserted into the upper opening 112 of the second utility enclosure 304, the lower surface 136 of the body 102 of the first utility enclosure 302 may come into contact with (or interconnect with) the interior ribs 202 of the second utility enclosure 304. In this regard, the interior ribs 202 of the first utility enclosure 302 may prevent the first utility enclosure 302 from being inserted too far into the upper opening 112 of the second utility enclosure 304. In other words, the interior rib width dimension (207 in Fig. 6A) of the second utility enclosure 304 is less than a width of the lower or bottom surface (136 in Fig. 2) of the body 102 of the first utility enclosure 302. Similarly, an interior rib length dimension of the second utility enclosure 304 is less than a length of the lower or bottom surface of the body 102 of the first utility enclosure 302.

[0280] Fig. 9 additionally illustrates the lower ledge 210 with cutouts 214, 216. As illustrated in Fig. 9, the interior ribs 202 contact the lower surface 136 of the body 102, and do not overlap with the cutouts 216. In this regard, a load may be distributed through the lower surface 136 of the body 102 to the interior ribs 202 between the stacked utility enclosures 302, 304. As the first utility enclosure 302 is illustrated with a lower opening 116, in some embodiments the interior cavity 110 of the second utility enclosure 304 is accessible via the upper opening 112, interior cavity 110, and lower opening 116 of the first utility enclosure 302, and additionally via the upper opening 112 of the second utility enclosure 304. In this regard, lines (e.g., power lines, data lines, water lines, etc.), electrical components, fluid components, and / or other components installed within the second utility enclosure 304 may be accessible via the first utility enclosure 302 while the subgrade utility system 300 is still installed below grade. In this regard, the utility enclosures as described throughout the present disclosure may be stacked underground at a job site. In particular, the utilities that may be installed within the utility enclosures 302, 304 (not shown) are still protected and are still accessible without dismantling the subgrade utility system 300 of utility enclosures 302, 304.

[0281] Although the enclosures 302, 304 are shown as having the same height, the enclosures 302, 304 may have different heights. This is advantageous if the exact depth of the utilities is not known. For example, where the installer needs an enclosure that is 39 inches (99.06 centimeters (cm)) deep, the installer can use one enclosure that is 18 inches (45.72 cm) tall and one enclosure that is 24 inches (60.96 cm) tall stacked together, assuming 3 inches (7.62 cm) is lost via the overlap of 3 inches (7.62 cm) of the top enclosure and 3 inches (7.62 cm) of the bottom enclosure.

[0282] Figs. 10A-10C, 11, and 12 in general illustrate a utility enclosure 400, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. It is noted that embodiments or aspects directed to the utility enclosure 100 of Figs. 1 A-7 and / or the utility enclosures 302, 304 of Figs. 8A-9 may be directed to the utility enclosure 400 of Figs. 10A-12 unless specifically noted, and vice versa, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0283] Referring now to Figs. 10A-10C, the utility enclosure 400 includes a body 402 with sidewalls 404, end walls 406, and corners 408. At least some of the sidewalls 404, the end walls 406, and the comers 408 define an interior cavity 410 within the body 402. In other words, an inner surface of the body 402 can define the interior cavity 410. The interior cavity 410 is accessible via an upper opening 412 (or first opening 412) within a lip 414 at a top of the body 402.

[0284] In some embodiments, the body 402 may be formed as a monolithic or one-piece construction (e.g., within a single or one-piece fabrication mold or cast). The monolithic structure results in a stronger body 402 than if a utility enclosure were constructed from separate components connected prior to shipment or on-site. In addition, the monolithic structure may reduce the ingress of unwanted dirt, etc. into the defined interior cavity 410, as compared to additional gaps that may occur within seams between components that are coupled together to form a utility enclosure. However, it should be understood that the body 402 may be fabricated as multiple components (e.g., to reduce complexity and costs of the forming mold or cast used for manufacturing), where the multiple components may be coupled together to form the body 402, and that optional gaskets or other seals (or sealants) may be installed between or proximate to the gaps between the multiple components, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0285] In some embodiments, the body 402 includes a lower opening 416 (or second opening 416), such that the utility enclosure 400 is open to the surrounding environment at the bottom. For example, the lower opening 416 may be beneficial where drainage is desired from the interior cavity 410 and into the surrounding environment, such as where water collects within the body 402. In some instances, the utility enclosure 400 may be installed with rocks / gravel positioned at the bottom of the interior cavity 410 or rocks / gravel positioned below the bottom surface of the enclosure, where the rocks / gravel allow water to gradually sift through and enter the surrounding dirt, similar to a French drain configuration. By way of another example, the lower opening 416 may be beneficial where multiple utility enclosures 400 are stacked, such that a lower utility enclosure 400 in the stack is accessible through an upper utility enclosure 400 in the stack, as described in detail further herein. However, it is contemplated that the body 402 may include a solid or nearly-solid bottom surface without the lower opening 416, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0286] The body 402 includes exterior ribs 418 on the sidewalls 404 and / or the end walls 406. In addition, the body 402 includes exterior ribs 420 on the corners 408. It is noted that the exterior ribs 418, 420 may be similar or different in design, shape, size, and number without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0287] Figs. 11 and 12 illustrate the utility enclosure 400 at the cross-section lines 11-11 and 12-12 in Fig. 10C, respectively, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In one non-limiting example, the exterior ribs 418 may include a first portion 422 that tapers from a first width 423 A to a second width 423B, the first width 423 A being bigger than the second width 423B, and a second portion 424 that includes a notch 426 that effectively changes the width of the exterior rib 418 from the second width 423B to a third width 425 that is smaller than the second width 423B. In some instances, as illustrated in Figs. 11 and 12, the first width 423 A proximate to the lip 414 is greater than the second width 423B, and the second width 423B is greater than the third width 425 proximate to the lower opening 416, relative to an exterior or outer surface 429 of the body 402.

[0288] In some embodiments, the first portion 422 may taper in a continuous manner along a height 427A of the first portion 422 between the first width 423 A at an upper end of the exterior rib 418 and the second width 423B at a lower end of the exterior rib 418. In other embodiments, the first portion 422 may taper in a non-continuous manner along the height 427A between the first width 423 A at an upper end of the exterior rib 418 and the second width 423B at a lower end of the exterior rib 418.

[0289] In some embodiments, the third width 425 of the second portion 424 may be constant along a height 427B of the second portion 424. In other embodiments, the third width 425 may vary in a continuous manner between upper and lower ends of the section portion 424. In further embodiments, the third width 425 may vary in a non-continuous manner between upper and lower ends of the section portion 424.

[0290] As depicted, the exterior ribs 418 extend from the lip 414 to a lower or bottom surface 436 of the body 402. However, it will be appreciated that the exterior ribs 418 may be offset from these features 414, 436 or extend to other features. Furthermore, the relationship between the height 427A of the first portion 422 and the height 427B of the second portion 424 can be critical to the utility enclosure 400. The second portion 424 is expected to be partially positioned within a second utility enclosure to engage a second lip when stacking multiple utility enclosures. Accordingly, if the height 427B of the second portion 424 relative to the height 427A of the first portion 422 is too small, then multiple utility enclosures may be unstable when stacked together. Conversely, if the relative height 427B of the second portion 424 is too large, then the combined interior volume of the multiple utility enclosures is smaller than it otherwise could be, wasting materials of the utility enclosures and increasing costs when a certain combined interior volume is desired. Thus, in some embodiments, the height 427B of the second portion 424 is between approximately 5-25% of the height 427A of the first portion 422. In various embodiments, the height 427B of the second portion 424 is between 10-20% (or no more than 20%) of the height 427A of the first portion 422 to make stable stacked utility enclosures while expanding the usable combined interior volume of the stacked utility enclosures.

[0291] As depicted, the exterior ribs 418 extend from the lip 414 to a lower or bottom surface 436 of the body 402. However, it will be appreciated that the exterior ribs 418 may be offset from these features 414, 436 or extend to other features.

[0292] In another non-limiting example, similar to the exterior ribs 418, the exterior ribs 420 may taper from a first width to a second width that is smaller than the first width. Some exterior ribs 420 do not include a second portion 424 with a notch 426. In various embodiments, the non-notched exterior ribs 420 may have a steeper taper than the exterior ribs 418 with a notch 426, meaning that the first width of both exterior ribs 418, 420 may be the same but the second width of the notched exterior rib 418 may be larger than the second width of the non-notched exterior rib 420. It is possible that the second width of the non-notched exterior rib 420 may be the same as or similar to the third width of the notched exterior rib 418.

[0293] In some instances, as illustrated in Figs. 11 and 12, the first width proximate to the lip 414 is greater than the second width proximate to the lower opening 416, relative to the exterior surface 429 of the body 402. It is noted that the taper of the exterior ribs 418 and / or 420 may be beneficial to assist in removing the utility enclosure 400 from a forming mold or cast during manufacturing, such as where the utility enclosure 400 is of a monolithic or one-piece construction.

[0294] Different types of exterior ribs 418, 420 may be used at different parts of the utility enclosure 400 to serve the various benefits described herein. In some embodiments, the body 402 is formed from four walls arranged in a rectangle, and the walls are joined at comers, which can be inherently stiffer, more rigid, and less prone to structural failure. The nonnotched exterior ribs 420 are smaller and have less structure than notched exterior ribs 418, and, thus, non-notched exterior ribs 420 can be placed at the corners which may need some support. The notched exterior ribs 418 are larger and have more structure than the nonnotched ribs 420, and, thus, the notched exterior ribs 418 provide more support. Thus, the notched exterior ribs 418 can be placed along the lengths of the end walls and / or sidewalls to support the parts of the body 402 that need additional support. The combined use of these different types of exterior ribs 418, 420 balances providing sufficient support while minimizing material, weight, and cost. While a rectangular body 402 is depicted and the different types of exterior ribs 418, 420 can be arranged in this manner, it will be appreciated that the present disclosure encompasses other embodiments with other shapes of the body 402 and / or different configurations of exterior ribs 418, 420.

[0295] The utility enclosure 400 has a total length 430 between opposing exterior surfaces of the lip 414 proximate to (or corresponding to) the end walls 406. In addition, the utility enclosure 400 has a total width 432 between opposing exterior surfaces of the lip 414 proximate to (or corresponding to) the sidewalls 404. Further, the utility enclosure 400 has a total height 434 between a lower surface 436 at a bottom of the body 402 (e.g., in which the lower opening 416 is positioned if there is a lower opening) and an upper surface 438 of the lip 414 (e.g., in which the upper opening 412 is positioned). The lip 414 has a lip height 440. Where the upper surface 438 of the lip 414 has a non-zero width, the portions of the lip 414 proximate to (or corresponding to) the corners 408 are defined by an outer radius 442 and an inner radius 444 relative to a respective center point for the radius of curvature.

[0296] The upper opening 412 has an upper opening length 446 and an upper opening width 448. Where there is a lower opening 416, the lower opening 416 has a lower opening length 450 and a lower opening width 452.

[0297] The interior cavity 410 has a length and a width defined between respective opposing interior cavity surfaces 428. In some embodiments, the interior cavity surfaces 428 may be parallel, substantially parallel, or sloped or angled between the lower surface 436 of the body 402 and the upper surface 438 of the lip 414. In one non-limiting example, as illustrated in Figs. 11 and 12, the interior cavity surfaces 428 are sloped inward for at least a portion of the height of the interior cavity 410, such that the interior cavity has multiple lengths and widths along the height of the interior cavity 410. For instance, the interior cavity 410 has an upper interior cavity length 454 and an upper interior cavity width 456, and additionally has a lower interior cavity length 458 and a lower interior cavity width 460, with the sloped interior cavity surfaces 428. Due to the sloping of the interior cavity surfaces 428, the length 454 is greater than the length 458, and the width 456 is greater than the width 460. It is contemplated, however, that the interior cavity surfaces 428 may be parallel or substantially parallel to a vertical axis or plane of the enclosure 400, such that the interior cavity 410 as the same or substantially same length and width at any point along its height.

[0298] Also depicted in Fig. 12 is a notch-to-notch dimension 461 (or second portion-to- second portion dimension) between second portions of opposing exterior ribs 418. The upper opening width 448 is equal to or greater than this notch-to-notch dimension 461 such that when multiple encloses are stacked or nested, the second portions of the exterior ribs 418 rest on an upper ledge 462 of the body 402. This dimension 461 is a width dimension between opposing exterior ribs 418 on sidewalls 404, as depicted in Fig. 12. However, it will be appreciated that a notch-to-notch dimension 463 can be along a length direction between opposing exterior ribs 418 located on end walls 406, as depicted in Fig. 11. In this case, the upper opening length (446 in Fig. 11) is equal to or greater than a notch-to-notch dimension 463 along the length direction such that when multiple encloses are stacked or nested, the second portions of the exterior ribs 418 rest on an upper ledge 462 of the body 402. In some embodiments, the upper ledge 462 of the body 402 is below the upper surface 438 of the lip 414. For example, the upper ledge 462 may be a predetermined distance below the upper surface 438. In some embodiments, the distance of the upper ledge 462 below the upper surface 438 is approximately equal to the lip height 440, or simply can be referred to as the lip height 440. In other embodiments, the distance of the upper ledge 462 below the upper surface 438 is approximately equal to the height of the notch 426 in exterior ribs 418. In various embodiments, the notch height 427B is equal to or greater than the lip height 440 to allow for the stacking or nesting of multiple enclosures 400 and to allow for the force distribution and other benefits described herein.

[0299] The upper ledge 462 is able to engage and / or support the lower surface 436 of the body 402 of a second enclosure and / or a lid, as described in detail further herein. In one non-limiting example, the upper ledge 462 includes a plurality of latch cutouts 464. The latch cutouts 464 are able to receive and / or couple to latch components of latch mechanisms (or other interlocking assemblies) to couple the lid to the body 402. In some embodiments, the latch cutouts 464 receive latch components of latch mechanisms (or other interlocking assemblies) to secure the bottom of one enclosure to the upper portion or upper ledge 462 of a second enclosure. In some instances where there are multiple latch cutouts 464, adjacent latch cutouts 464 of the plurality of latch cutouts 464 are separated by a first latch distance 466 (e.g., that corresponds to a length of the utility enclosure 400) or a second latch distance 468 (e.g., that corresponds to a width of the utility enclosure 400).

[0300] The sidewalls 404, the end walls 406, and / or the comers 408 of the body 402 are fabricated from a material having a wall thickness 470. It is noted that the wall thickness 470 may be uniform, substantially uniform, or differ in select regions in the body 402, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In some instances, differences in wall thickness 470 may balance a need for sufficient wall strength of the sidewalls 404, the end walls 406, and / or the comers 408 of the body 402, with a desire to reduce manufacturing costs and / or increase an ease of manufacturing (e.g., via forming molds or casts, or the like) of the utility enclosure 400.

[0301] In some embodiments, where the body 402 includes the lower surface 436 in which the lower opening 416 is located, the interior cavity 410 has a lower ledge 472. The lower ledge 472 may provide a transition between the interior cavity surfaces 428 and the lower opening 416. A plurality of fins 474 may be on the lower ledge 472. The plurality of fins 474 may join the interior cavity surfaces 428 with a lower ledge surface 476. For example, the fins 474 may provide additional rigidity and / or support to the body 402. In addition, the fins 474 may assist in removing the body 402 from a forming mold or cast during manufacturing, such as where the utility enclosure 400 is of a monolithic or one-piece construction.

[0302] It is noted herein that the respective lengths, widths, and / or heights may be the same or may be different, depending on the configuration of the utility enclosure 400.

[0303] In various embodiments, the exterior ribs 418 extend from a larger area or perimeter of the outer surface 429 of the body 402. As depicted, the exterior ribs 418 are relatively narrow projections from the outer surface 429 of the body 402 such that a larger portion of a perimeter of the body 402 is without exterior ribs 418 than the portion of the perimeter than has exterior ribs 418. It will be appreciated that the present disclosure encompasses embodiments where the exterior ribs 418 are wider projections, and a larger portion of the perimeter of the body 402 is covered by exterior ribs 418 than the portion of the perimeter that does not have exterior ribs 418. Moreover, in embodiments where the wall thickness 470 is uniform, the inner surface of the body 402 may inversely correspond the outer surface 429 of the body 402. Thus, each exterior rib 418 projecting outward from the outer surface 429 has a corresponding recess extending into the inner surface, which can aid in the stackability or nestability of multiple enclosures.

[0304] In embodiments, the utility enclosures 400A, 400B include a wall portion 478 on a sidewall 404 and / or an end wall 406 that does not include exterior ribs 418. The wall portion 478 may include at least one wall aperture 479, wall aperture 480, and / or optional knockout (not shown) extending into the interior cavity 410 from the surrounding environment. For example, the at least one wall aperture 479, wall aperture 480, and / or knockout may be able to receive and pass lines (e.g., power lines, data lines, water lines, etc.) from the surrounding environment and into the interior cavity 410. By way of another example, the at least one wall aperture 479, wall aperture 480, and / or knockout may assist in drainage from the interior cavity 410 and into the surrounding environment. For instance, the at least one wall aperture 479 may assist in drainage to prevent the utility enclosures 400 from possibly floating within the hole at the job site, such as where the hole filled with water (e.g., due to a water table depth is closer to a ground surface than a depth of the utility enclosure 400). Although Figs. 10A-12 are illustrated with the at least one wall aperture 479, wall aperture 480, and / or knockout positioned in the end walls 406, it is contemplated that the sidewalls 404 may be additionally or alternatively fabricated with the wall portions 478 and at least one wall aperture 479, wall aperture 480, and / or knockout proximate to the lower opening 416, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0305] In some non-limiting examples, the wall aperture 479 may be positioned substantially at the bottom of an end wall 406 and extends to the bottom of the utility enclosure 400A, such that the wall aperture 479 is in communication with both the interior cavity 410 and the lower opening 416 (not shown). In some instances, the utility enclosure 400 A includes a wall aperture 479 in each of the end walls 406. The wall aperture 479 may be formed as part of the bottom of the body 402 during the fabrication process(es) to form the body 402 (e.g., as part of the forming mold or cast for the body 402).

[0306] In further non-limiting examples, one or more wall apertures 480 may be positioned a predetermined distance from / above the bottom of the end wall 406, such that the wall aperture 480 is not connected to the bottom of the utility enclosure 400B and is only in communication with the interior cavity 410. In some instances, the utility enclosure 400B includes one or multiple wall apertures 480 in each of the end walls 406. The one or multiple wall apertures 480 may be formed with the end walls 406 as part of the forming mold or cast for the body 402, or may be cut into the end walls 406 in one or more subsequent fabrication processes after the fabrication process(es) to form the body 402.

[0307] In further non-limiting examples, the utility enclosure 400 includes a plurality of wall apertures 481 positioned in the wall portion 478 of the end walls 406. In general, the plurality of wall apertures 480 is beneficial for use during installations including, but not limited to, fiber pulling eye installations. In particular, the plurality of wall apertures 480 may show an installer a more structurally sound and functional area to install a fiber pulling eye. In addition, the plurality of wall apertures 480 may allow an installer to install pulling eyes without heavy equipment. Further, the plurality of wall apertures 480 may increase the ease of manufacturing by being molded or casted within the sidewalls 404 instead of drilling or other later manufacturing process.

[0308] It is noted that one or more of the wall apertures 479, 480, 481 may be knockouts. For example, knockouts can be thinner than the wall portion 478 such that they can be knocked out in the field (e.g., using a hammer or other tool). Alternatively, the knockouts can be the same thickness as the wall portion 478, but scorelines are drawn on the wall portion 478 to define the knockouts, which will also permit the knockouts to be knocked out in the field (e.g., using a hammer or other tool). In general, the wall apertures 479, wall apertures 480, wall apertures 481, and / or knockouts are beneficial in that the wall apertures 479, wall apertures 480, wall apertures 481, and / or knockouts provide access points with common or known industry conduit sizes to increase ease of installation of conduit and / or wiring through the sidewalls 404 and / or end walls 406 of the utility enclosure 400. In addition, the wall apertures 479, wall apertures 480, wall apertures 481, and / or knockouts are beneficial in that the wall apertures 479, wall apertures 480, wall apertures 481, and / or knockouts reduce manufacturing costs by reducing an amount of material necessary to manufacture the utility enclosure 400.

[0309] In some embodiments, the body 402 includes a lifting feature 482. For example, the lifting feature 482 may be integrated with the body 402, such that it is formed with the body 402. By way of another example, the lifting feature 482 may be a separate component that is affixed to the body 402 during manufacturing or prior to installation at a job site. Further, the lifting feature 482 may be a separate component that is removably coupled to the body 402 during manufacturing or while in use at a job site.

[0310] It is noted that the lifting feature 482 may be engaged by an installer to move or reposition the utility enclosure 400, either directly (e.g., with hands) or indirectly (e.g., with tools, a hook, a handle, a bracket, a loop, a hoist, a rope or cable, or other device able to engage with and secure to the lifting feature 482. At least a portion 484 of the lifting feature 482 (e.g., such as a protrusion, fin, aperture, recess, etc.) is configured to not release from contact or interconnection unless a secondary external force is applied, to prevent possible loss of grip or control of the utility enclosure 400 when engaged during movement or repositioning.

[0311] In general, the lifting features 482 are beneficial in that the lifting features 482 increase the ease in which an installer can lift and place or position the utility enclosure. In addition, the lifting features 482 are beneficial in that the lifting features 482 increase the safety for an installer or other contractor to handle the utility enclosures 400 when transporting and / or installing.

[0312] In embodiments, the utility enclosure 400 includes a plurality of interior ribs 502 and / or a plurality of interior grooves 503. The interior ribs 502 may be integrated with (e.g., fabricated with) a sidewall 404 and / or an end wall 406, such as part of an interior cavity surface 428. It is noted, however, that the interior ribs 502 may be a separate component (e.g., a rib, rail, etc.) coupled to the interior cavity surface 428 (e.g., via hardware such as fasteners, an adhesive, etc.), without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The interior grooves 503 may be defined between adjacent interior ribs 502. It is noted, however, that the interior grooves 503 may be integrated with (e.g., fabricated with) a sidewall 404 and / or an end wall 406, such as within an interior cavity surface 428.

[0313] In one non-limiting example, the interior ribs 502 are protrusions from the interior cavity surface 428 to which a component of a subgrade utility system 500 installed within the interior cavity 410 is able to couple. The component of the subgrade utility system 500 may have a recess or other feature that, combined with the interior ribs 502, form an interlocking assembly of the subgrade utility system 500.

[0314] In another non-limiting example, the interior grooves 503 are recesses that are able to receive or interconnect with a component of the subgrade utility system 500 installed within the interior cavity 410. The component of the subgrade utility system 500 may have a protrusion or other feature that, combined with the interior grooves 503, form an interlocking assembly of the subgrade utility system 500.

[0315] In some embodiments, the sidewalls 404 and / or the end walls 406 have rack apertures 505 positioned proximate to one or more interior ribs 502 (e.g., beside a particular interior rib 502, and / or between adjacent sets of interior ribs 502). In general, the rack apertures 505 are beneficial to provide attachment points for accessories like cable racking. The rack apertures 505 allow an installer to install accessories without heavy equipment (e.g., for fiber slack storage). In addition, the rack apertures 505 increase the ease of manufacturing of the utility enclosure 400, such as where the holes are molded or cast into the sidewalls 404 and / or the end walls 406 rather than drilled. Further, the rack apertures 505 increase the safety for installers to add standard accessories and / or aftermarket accessories, as the rack apertures 505 are pre-cast or pre-molded into the sidewalls 404 and / or the end walls 406 rather than drilled.

[0316] In some embodiments, the interior ribs 502 may be positioned in pairs such that an interior groove 503 is formed between the pair of interior ribs 502. Additionally or alternatively, a pair of interior ribs 502 and its corresponding interior groove 503 may be in sets, with one of each (i.e., one pair of interior ribs 502 and its corresponding interior groove 503) being on opposite sidewalls 404 and / or end walls 406 to form a set. If a set is formed, then an article, such as a divider, could be positioned in each groove 503 and held on one side by one groove 503 and held on the other side by the other groove 503, such that the interior ribs 502 flanking the respective grooves 503 form a divider slot. It is noted, however, that the interior ribs 502 and / or interior grooves 503 may be standalone components, and / or may be used as a standalone component even if part of a set, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Further shown in Fig. 6A is an interior rib width dimension 507 between interior ribs 502 on opposite sidewalls 404. It will be appreciated that interior ribs 502 on opposite end walls 406 can also form an interior rib length dimension.

[0317] The interior ribs 502 and / or interior grooves 503 may be able to receive or interconnect with additional components of the subgrade utility system 500. For example, the additional components may include, but are not limited to, brackets, boards, boxes or other housings, racks, and the like that hold lines (e.g., power lines, data lines, water lines, etc.) in place within the interior cavity 410. By way of another example, the additional components may include, but are not limited to, dividers to separate the interior cavity 410 into separate compartments.

[0318] In general, the divider slot (e.g., formed of opposite grooves 503 flanked by respective interior ribs 502) is beneficial in that the divider slot allows installers to install a divider without hardware. The divider may separate assets installed within the utility enclosure 400 including, but not limited to, assets owned by the same or different installers (e.g., power, telecom, cable, fiber optic, water, wastewater, or the like) within the same utility enclosure 400.

[0319] In some embodiments, the interior ribs 502 and / or interior grooves 503 are configured such that hardware (e.g., fasteners, brackets, etc.) are not required to install the additional components (e.g., such as a divider, described in detail further herein) within the interior cavity 410. This results in an easier, more efficient method of installing the additional components, as opposed to where hardware and / or tools or other devices may be necessary to couple the additional components to the utility enclosure 400. It is noted, however, that the interior ribs 502 and / or grooves 503 may be configured to receive or interconnect with any necessary or desired hardware, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0320] In embodiments, a divider installable within the utility enclosure 400 may include, but is not limited to, a rack, plate, grate, or other structure. For example, the divider may be similar to the divider 204 that is installable in the utility enclosure 100, as described previously herein. The divider fits within (and / or couples to) the interior ribs 502 and / or interior grooves 503. In some embodiments, the placement of the divider within the interior cavity 410 defines different interior cavity portions. It is noted that any number of dividers may be inserted into the utility enclosure 400, where the dividers may define the interior cavity 410 into any number of interior cavity portions. It is contemplated that the divider may allow for one or multiple utility providers to use the utility enclosure 400, including by separating different utility lines into the different interior cavity portions.

[0321] In embodiments, a lid may be installed on the utility enclosure 400. For example, the lid may be similar to the lid 206 that is couplable to the utility enclosure 100, as described previously herein. It is noted the divider and the lid may be used separately or in combination with one another within the subgrade utility system 500, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0322] In some embodiments, the lid may be positioned in the upper opening 412 located within the lip 414, such that the lid is interconnected with the lip 414. In one non-limiting example, an upper lid surface and the upper surface 438 of the lip 414 may be planar or substantially planar when the lid is interconnected with the lip 414. Alternatively, the lid may be positioned above and outside of the lip 414. The lid may rest on or otherwise engage the upper ledge 462. Alternatively, only a lower portion of the lid may rest on the upper ledge 462 and another portion of the lid may rest on the upper surface 438 of the lip 414. In some embodiments, the plurality of latch cutouts 464 are able to receive and / or couple to latch components of a latch mechanisms (or other interlocking assemblies) to couple the lid to the body 402 within the upper opening 412. It is noted the latch mechanisms may include any hardware and / or fasteners, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0323] In some instances, the utility enclosure 400 may be positioned or inserted in a hole within or proximate to a ground surface (e.g., be below grade) or, more generally, be at least partially buried in the ground. For example, a portion of the utility enclosure 400 (e.g., the lip 414) and the lid may be exposed above the ground, and a portion of the utility enclosure 400 may be buried or otherwise positioned in the ground. By way of another example, a portion of the lid may be exposed above the ground, and a portion of the lid and the entire utility enclosure 400 may be buried or otherwise positioned within the ground. By way of another example, a top surface of the lid may be exposed (e.g., the top surface is flush to grade or below grade), with the remainder of the lid and the entire utility enclosure 400 being buried or otherwise positioned within the ground. In one non-limiting example, when the utility enclosure 400 is installed within a ground surface, the upper lid surface and the upper surface 438 of the lip 414 may thus be positioned at grade such that the lid does not present a tripping hazard or other obstacle when positioned within the upper opening 412. In embodiments, the utility enclosure 400 includes a lower ledge 510. The lower ledge 510 may include a lower ledge surface 512 (e.g., within the interior cavity 410) and the lower surface 436 of the body 402. The lower ledge 510 may include cutouts 514 that extend into the lower ledge 510 from the lower ledge surface 512, and / or may include cutouts 516 that extend into the lower ledge 510 from the lower surface 436. The cutouts 514, 516 may be separated by a lower ledge portion 518, or alternatively form pass-through holes within the lower ledge 512. In some instances, the lower ledge 510 may have a height that is approximately equal to the height of the notch 426 in the exterior rib 418.

[0324] In embodiments, the utility enclosure 400 includes a plurality of wall apertures 520 positioned in the sidewalls 404 proximate to one or more of the exterior ribs 418 and / or the interior ribs 202. For example, the plurality of wall apertures 520 may be positioned between adjacent exterior ribs 418. In some non-limiting examples, the plurality of wall apertures 520 is located proximate to the upper ledge 510, on which a lid may optionally be set. In general, the plurality of wall apertures 520 is beneficial for use during installations including, but not limited to, a fiber drop. In particular, the plurality of wall apertures 520 may show an installer a more structurally sound and functional area to install a fiber drop. In addition, the plurality of wall apertures 520 may increase the ease of manufacturing by being molded or casted within the sidewalls 404 instead of drilling or other later manufacturing process.

[0325] In embodiments, it should be understood that one or more of the rib structures 418, 420, 502 of the utility enclosure 400 may differ as compared to the rib structures 118, 120, 202 of the utility enclosure 100. For example, the rib structures 418, 420, 502 may have variations to allow for the incorporation of other features like the apertures 479, 480, 481, 520 and / or knockouts in the body. By way of another example, the rib structures 418, 420, 502 may have variations to allow for the stacking while also meeting strength requirements, as described in detail further herein. In general, the utility enclosure 400 may differ from the utility enclosure 100 with overall weight reduction, and / or reduced cost and manufacturing time with new rib structure (e.g., while providing a thicker rib structure to reduce the possibility of breakage during transportation). Further, the utility enclosure 400 may differ from the utility enclosure 100 with a more modifiable space (e.g., in the interior cavity) for customization.

[0326] In some examples, the exterior ribs 420 have notches where the exterior ribs 120 may not. This is beneficial as this allows for an increased ease of centering utility enclosures 400 while being stacked when transported (e.g., during shipping) and in the field at a job site (e.g., during installation). This is additionally beneficial to give a taller height 427B for the exterior ribs 418, 420. In additional examples, the exterior ribs 418, 420 taper less than the exterior ribs 118, 120. This is beneficial to improve the molding and / or casting processes implemented to manufacture the utility enclosures 400. In further examples, the utility enclosure 400 includes a greater number of exterior ribs 418, 420 as compared to the number of exterior ribs 118, 120 of the utility enclosure 100. This is beneficial to promote an increase distribution of load between the utility enclosures 400 when stacked, while allowing for drop holes and still meeting or exceeding load requirements. In some instances, the number of exterior ribs 418, 420 may accept an approximately 2.5 inch (6.35 cm) wall aperture 481 between the ribs 418, 420.

[0327] In general, it should be understood that the exterior ribs 418, 420 (and the exterior ribs 118, 120 may have a rib-to-rib pitch 522 within a desired range. For example, the range for the rib-to-rib pitch 522 must be sufficiently large to accommodate apertures 520 and / or other features of the utility enclosure 400. By way of another example, the range for the rib- to-rib pitch 522 must be sufficiently small to meet or exceed load or strength requirements, as described in detail further herein.

[0328] It is noted that the pitch 522 can be critical to the utility enclosure 400. Too small of a pitch 522 will waste material, add unnecessary weight to the utility enclosure 400, and increase costs. Too large of a pitch 522, and the utility enclosure 400 may not meet performance standards such as bearing a certain amount of load. This pitch 522 can be expressed relative to a perimeter of the body 402 of the utility enclosure 400, and the perimeter of the body 402 can be defined as the sum of the lengths of the sidewalls 404 and the widths of the end walls 406. Alternatively, the sum of twice the width of the body 402 and of twice the length of the body 402. In some embodiments, the pitch 522 is between approximately 2% and 4% of the perimeter of the body 402. In various embodiments, the pitch 522 is no more than 5%. The pitch 522 can be constant among all exterior ribs extending from the body 402. It will also be appreciated that the present disclosure encompasses embodiments where the pitch 522 varies among all exterior ribs extending from the body 402. For instance, the pitch 522 may vary at the corners between sidewalls 404 and end walls 406.

[0329] It is noted that the rib-to-rib pitch 522 may be the same for the exterior ribs 418 on the sidewalls 404, the exterior ribs 418 on the end walls 406, and / or the exterior ribs 420 on the comers 108, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Alternatively, it is noted that the rib-to-rib pitch 522 may be different for the exterior ribs 418 on the sidewalls 404, the exterior ribs 418 on the end walls 406, and / or the exterior ribs 420 on the corners 108, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0330] Also in general, it should be understood that the exterior ribs 418, 420 may have a rib thickness 524 within a desired range. For example, the range for the rib thickness 524 must be sufficiently large to accommodate apertures 520 and / or other features of the utility enclosure 400. By way of another example, the range for the rib thickness 524 must be sufficiently small to meet or exceed load or strength requirements, as described in detail further herein.

[0331] It is noted that the rib thickness 524 may be the same for the exterior ribs 418 on the sidewalls 404, the exterior ribs 418 on the end walls 406, and / or the exterior ribs 420 on the corners 108, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Alternatively, it is noted that the rib thickness 524 may be different for the exterior ribs 418 on the sidewalls 404, the exterior ribs 418 on the end walls 406, and / or the exterior ribs 420 on the corners 108, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0332] Although the present disclosure illustrates exemplary pitch 522 and thickness 524 for the exterior ribs 418, 420, it is noted that the pitch 522 and thickness 524 may vary depending on the shape, size, and / or dimensions of the utility enclosure 400, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. As such, the exemplary pitch 522 and thickness 524 should not be understood as limiting, but instead merely illustrative of the present disclosure.

[0333] Figs. 13 A and 13B generally illustrate a subgrade utility system 600 including utility enclosures 602 and 604, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 14 is an enlarged view of portion 14-14 of Fig. 13 A showing a portion of the stackable utility enclosures 602 and 604, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. It is noted that embodiments or aspects directed to the utility enclosure 100 of Figs. 1A-7, the utility enclosures 302, 304 of Figs. 8A-9, the utility enclosure 400 in Figs. 10A-12, the subgrade utility system 200 in Figs. 6A-7, and / or the subgrade utility system 300 in Figs. 8A-9 may be directed to the utility enclosures 602 and 604 of the subgrade utility system 600 of Figs. 13A-14 unless specifically noted, and vice versa, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In particular, in some embodiments the utility enclosure 602 and / or 604 are largely identical to the utility enclosure 400, as described throughout the present disclosure.

[0334] The shape of the exterior ribs 418, 420 allow for increased ease of stacking multiple utility enclosures within the subgrade utility system 600. For example, the notches 426 of the exterior ribs 418 of the first utility enclosure 602 may be dimensioned to correspond to the lip 414 of the second utility enclosure 604, such that the notches 426 of the first utility enclosure 602 are able to receive or interconnect with the lip 414 of the second utility enclosure 604. By way of another example, the exterior ribs 420 of the first utility enclosure 602 may be tapered along their lengths, such that the end of the exterior ribs 420 proximate to the lower opening 416 (not shown) of the first utility enclosure 602 is able to fit within the upper opening 412 of the second utility enclosure 604, without need for a notch 426 as included on the exterior ribs 418.

[0335] However, it is noted that the notch 426 provides an additional securing feature when the bottom of the first utility enclosure 602 is inserted into the upper opening 412 of the second utility enclosure 604. The mating (and potential contact or interconnection) between the exterior ribs 418 with notches 426 of the first utility enclosure 602 and the lip 414 of the second utility enclosure 604 in multiple directions reduces or inhibits movement of the first utility enclosure 602 relative to the second utility enclosure 604 in any given direction.

[0336] In addition, it is noted that the interior ribs 502 may provide an additional support feature. For example, the interior ribs 502 may assist in distributing a load applied by the utility enclosure 602 stacked on the utility enclosure 604, in addition to the load distribution that can occur via the interconnection of the exterior ribs 418, 420 of the utility enclosure 602 and the lip 414 of the utility enclosure 604. By way of another example, when the first utility enclosure 602 is inserted into the upper opening 412 of the second utility enclosure 604, the lower surface 436 of the body 402 of the first utility enclosure 602 may come into contact with (or interconnect with) the interior ribs 502 of the second utility enclosure 604. In this regard, the interior ribs 502 of the first utility enclosure 602 may prevent the first utility enclosure 602 from being inserted too far into the upper opening 412 of the second utility enclosure 604. In other words, the interior rib width dimension (507 in Fig. 10A) of the second utility enclosure 604 is less than a width of the lower or bottom surface (436 in Fig. 11) of the body 402 of the first utility enclosure 602. Similarly, an interior rib length dimension of the second utility enclosure 604 is less than a length of the lower or bottom surface of the body 402 of the first utility enclosure 602. Fig. 9 additionally illustrates the lower ledge 510 with cutouts 514, 516. As illustrated in Fig. 9, the interior ribs 502 contact the lower surface 436 of the body 402, and do not overlap with the cutouts 516. In this regard, a load may be distributed through the lower surface 436 of the body 402 to the interior ribs 502 between the stacked utility enclosures 602, 604. As the first utility enclosure 602 is illustrated with a lower opening 416, in some embodiments the interior cavity 410 of the second utility enclosure 604 is accessible via the upper opening 412, interior cavity 410, and lower opening 416 of the first utility enclosure 602, and additionally via the upper opening 412 of the second utility enclosure 604. In this regard, lines (e.g., power lines, data lines, water lines, etc.), electrical components, fluid components, and / or other components installed within the second utility enclosure 604 may be accessible via the first utility enclosure 602 while the subgrade utility system 600 is still installed below grade. In this regard, the utility enclosures as described throughout the present disclosure may be stacked underground at a job site. In particular, the utilities that may be installed within the utility enclosures 602, 604 (not shown) are still protected and are still accessible without dismantling the subgrade utility system 600 of utility enclosures 602, 604.

[0337] Although the enclosures 602, 604 are shown as having the same height, the enclosures 602, 604 may have different heights. This is advantageous if the exact depth of the utilities is not known. For example, where the installer needs an enclosure that is 39 inches (99.06 cm) deep, the installer can use one enclosure that is 18 inches (45.72 cm) tall and one enclosure that is 24 inches (60.96 cm) tall stacked together, assuming 3 inches (7.62 cm) is lost via the overlap of 3 inches (7.62 cm) of the top enclosure and 3 inches (7.62 cm) of the bottom enclosure.

[0338] In general, multiple utility enclosures may be used to create a combined below grade height instead of a single utility enclosure that may be more costly to produce and / or purchase. By way of another example, multiple utility enclosures may be used to accommodate an unknown variance at a job site, such as where the utility location is at a greater depth than originally planned or known on the site plan.

[0339] In some embodiments, the utility enclosures 100 as described throughout the present disclosure are fabricated from a thermoplastic material or thermoplastic blend. In one instance, the thermoplastic blend includes, but is not limited to, a blended polypropylene material or copolymer. In another instance, the thermoplastic blend includes, but is not limited to, a blended polyethylene and polypropylene material or copolymer. In general, the thermoplastic blend may have load-bearing properties that are capable of meeting or exceeding ANSI / SCTE 77 2023 standards for subgrade utility enclosures, as provided in Table 1.

[0340] Table 1 : Design / Test Loads for ANSI / SCTE 77 2023 standards

[0341] In this regard, the utility enclosures of the present application are beneficial because an install can stack multiple utility enclosures to a desired height while still meeting or exceeding ANSI / SCTE 77 load rating requirements. In particular, the utility enclosures are easily stackable for shipping and transportation. In addition, the utility enclosures of the present application are easily interchangeable with existing polymer concrete enclosures. Further, the utility enclosures of the present application allow for grade level extensions in the event of a roadway grade level change (e.g., an increase, requiring a raising of the utility enclosure site location), by stacking utility enclosures to the new roadway grade level. While various embodiments of the utility enclosures have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and alterations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. It is to be expressly understood that such modifications and alterations are within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Further, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purposes of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof, as well as additional items. Further, it is to be understood that the claims are not necessarily limited to the specific features or steps described herein. Rather, the specific features and steps are disclosed as embodiments of implementing the claimed utility enclosures and corresponding systems.

[0342] One aspect of the disclosure comprises any one or more of the aspects / embodiments as substantially disclosed herein. Another aspect of the disclosure is any one or more of the aspects / embodiments as substantially disclosed herein optionally in combination with any one or more other aspects / embodiments as substantially disclosed herein.

[0343] It is another aspect of the present disclosure to provide one or more means adapted to perform any one or more of the above aspects / embodiments as substantially disclosed herein.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A subgrade utility enclosure, comprising: a body having at least one wall and having a lip with an upper surface that defines an upper opening; an interior cavity defined by an inner surface of the body, wherein the interior cavity within the body is accessible via the upper opening; an upper ledge defined by the inner surface of the body, and the upper ledge is offset from the upper surface of the lip by a lip height; and a plurality of exterior ribs extending from an outer surface of the body, wherein a first exterior rib of the plurality of exterior ribs has a first portion and a second portion, wherein the second portion has a width projecting from the outer surface of the body that is less than a width of the first portion to form a notch proximate to a bottom surface of the body, wherein a height of the second portion of the first exterior rib is equal to or greater than the lip height.

2. The subgrade utility enclosure of claim 1, wherein the first exterior rib extends from the lip to the bottom surface of the body, and the width of the first portion varies between a first width at an upper end of the first portion to a second width at a lower end of the first portion, wherein the second width is less than the first width, wherein the width of the second portion is a third width that is less than the second width to form the notch.

3. The subgrade utility enclosure of claim 2, wherein the first portion of the first exterior rib continuously tapers from the first width to the second width.

4. The subgrade utility enclosure of claim 2, wherein the third width of the second portion of the first exterior rib is constant between upper and lower ends of the second portion.

5. The subgrade utility enclosure of claim 2, wherein a plurality of interior ribs extends inwardly from the inner surface of the body, wherein two interior ribs of the plurality interior ribs define an interior dimension that is less than a width of the bottom surface of the body and less than a length of the bottom surface of the body.

6. The subgrade utility enclosure of claim 1, wherein the at least one wall comprises two end walls and two sidewalls arranged in a rectangular configuration with the two end walls opposing each other, and the two sidewalls opposing each other.

7. The subgrade utility enclosure of claim 6, wherein the first exterior rib extends from one of the sidewalls, and a second exterior rib of the plurality of exterior ribs extends from the opposing sidewall, wherein the second exterior rib has first and second portions to form a notch, and wherein a width of the upper opening is equal to or greater than a distance between second portions of the first and second exterior ribs.

8. The subgrade utility enclosure of claim 6, wherein a pitch between adjacent exterior ribs of the plurality of exterior ribs is constant along a perimeter of the two end walls and two sidewalls.

9. The subgrade utility enclosure of claim 1, wherein the body is formed as a monolithic structure.

10. The subgrade utility enclosure of claim 1, wherein the bottom surface of the body defines a lower opening, and the interior cavity within the body is accessible via the lower opening.

11. A subgrade utility enclosure, comprising: a body including a plurality of sidewalls, a plurality of end walls, a lip including an upper surface with an upper opening, and a bottom surface including a lower opening, an interior cavity defined by an inner surface of the body, wherein the interior cavity within the body is accessible via the upper opening; a plurality of interior ribs extending inwardly from the inner surface of the body, wherein two interior ribs of the plurality interior ribs define an interior dimension that is less than a width of the bottom surface of the body and less than a length of the bottom surface of the body; and a plurality of exterior ribs extending from an outer surface of the body, each exterior rib of the plurality of exterior ribs having a notch proximate to the bottom surface of the body, wherein the plurality of exterior ribs is adapted to engage a second lip of a second subgrade utility enclosure to distribute a load to the second subgrade utility enclosure.

12. The subgrade utility enclosure of claim 11, wherein the bottom surface of the body is operable to engage a second plurality of interior ribs of the second subgrade utility enclosure to distribute a load to the second subgrade utility enclosure.

13. The subgrade utility enclosure of claim 11, wherein each exterior rib of the plurality of exterior ribs comprises a first portion and a second portion, wherein the second portion has a width projecting from the outer surface of the body that is less than a width of the first portion to form the notch.

14. The subgrade utility enclosure of claim 13, wherein a height of the second portion is no more than 20% of a height of the first portion.

15. The subgrade utility enclosure of claim 11, further comprising an aperture extending through the body between adjacent exterior ribs of the plurality of exterior ribs.

16. The subgrade utility enclosure of claim 11, further comprising an aperture extending through the body proximate to the bottom surface of the body.

17. A subgrade utility system, comprising: a first subgrade utility enclosure with a first body including a first upper opening in a first lip, a first lower opening in a first bottom surface, a first plurality of exterior ribs, and a first plurality of interior ribs, wherein the first body defines a first interior cavity; and a second subgrade utility enclosure with a second body including a second upper opening in a second lip, a second lower opening in a second bottom surface, a second plurality of exterior ribs, and a second plurality of interior ribs, wherein the second body defines a second interior cavity; wherein the first bottom surface of the first body is operable to engage the second plurality of interior ribs in the second interior cavity in the second body of the second subgrade utility enclosure when the first subgrade utility enclosure is positioned on the second subgrade utility enclosure, wherein the first plurality of exterior ribs of the first body is operable to engage the second lip of the second subgrade utility enclosure when the first subgrade utility enclosure is positioned on the second subgrade utility enclosure, and wherein the engaging of the first bottom surface of the first body and the second plurality of interior ribs and the engaging of the first plurality of exterior ribs of the first body and the second lip of the second subgrade utility enclosure distributes a load applied by the first subgrade utility enclosure to the second subgrade utility enclosure.

18. The subgrade utility system of claim 17, wherein the first interior cavity and the second interior cavity to form a combined interior cavity when the first subgrade utility enclosure is positioned on the second subgrade utility enclosure.

19. The subgrade utility system of claim 17, wherein each of the first plurality of exterior ribs includes a notch that is operable to engage the second lip of the second subgrade utility enclosure when the first subgrade utility enclosure is positioned on the second subgrade utility enclosure.

20. The subgrade utility system of claim 17, wherein the first subgrade utility enclosure and the second subgrade utility enclosure are each fabricated from a blended polypropylene material.

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