Box Culvert Assembly Pivoting Mechanism for Leak-Free Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing box culvert assembly methods often result in ineffective sealing due to dirt disturbance when boxes are pushed along the ground, leading to leakage and inefficient assembly.
Innovation Solution
A box culvert assembly design featuring protruding ledges and recessed ledges with angled surfaces allows boxes to be coupled without sliding on the ground, using a method where one box is lowered and pivoted onto another, creating a strong seal with support from thick portions and recessed areas, and optionally using sealing pads to fill a gap for enhanced sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If boxes are pushed along the ground during assembly, then the assembly process is simple, but dirt is disturbed and accumulates between boxes causing ineffective sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the assembly dimension from horizontal ground-based pushing to vertical lowering and pivoting motion. Boxes are lowered vertically onto the ground and then pivoted into position, rather than being pushed horizontally along the ground. This dimensional change prevents dirt disturbance while achieving proper box alignment and sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces ledges as intermediary structural features that facilitate the pivoting motion during assembly. The ledges act as temporary support and rotation points, enabling the box to pivot into its final sealed position without sliding on the ground, thus preventing dirt accumulation while maintaining assembly ease.
2Reliability
If boxes are pushed tight together to form a sealed line, then leakage is inhibited, but excessive effort and stress are applied during assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention inverts the traditional assembly approach by having boxes pivot into position rather than being forced together. The pivoting motion allows the box weight and gravitational force to assist in creating the tight seal, rather than requiring external pushing forces. This reduces assembly effort while maintaining sealing effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The ledges function as counterweight support points during the pivoting process, distributing the box weight and reducing the force required to complete the assembly. The ledges provide mechanical advantage by allowing the box to rotate into position using its own weight rather than requiring external forcing.
3Reliability
If boxes are lowered and pivoted onto one another, then ground contact is avoided and sealing is improved, but the assembly method becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention makes the box structure self-sufficient by incorporating ledges directly into the box design. These ledges serve multiple functions: they provide pivoting points during assembly, support the box during installation, and contribute to the final sealed connection. This eliminates the need for separate assembly equipment or complex external mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the assembly mechanism with the box structure itself by integrating ledges into the box design. The ledges combine structural support, pivoting mechanism, and sealing functions into a single integrated feature, simplifying the overall assembly process despite the changed methodology.
Data Source
AI summary
A box culvert assembly and method of forming a box culvert assembly is provided. The boxes forming the assembly comprise portions configured to allow pivoted assembly of one box into another, while reducing the likelihood of high stress or fracture. The box assembly further allows for a generally tight seal between the boxes.