Closure Device Tilting and Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closure devices for access chambers and underground networks are complex and costly to manufacture and install, with difficult assembly and dismantling processes, particularly due to the use of numerous mechanical elements and compression forces that pose safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A closure device comprising a base body, thrust element, and connecting element that allows for tilting and locking mechanisms, enabling easier assembly and removal by forming an autonomous module that can be manipulated as a single block, reducing the need for complex mounting and minimizing manual force required for operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mechanical components (pins, bolts, welding, molding) are used to attach the cylinder to the frame and buffer, then the connection strength and reliability are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cylinder and buffer into a single integrated component, eliminating the need for separate mechanical attachments. The buffer is formed as an integral part of the cylinder structure, reducing the number of parts and simplifying both manufacturing and assembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the closure device into modular segments: the cylinder-buffer assembly, the shutter mechanism, and the frame structure. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently and assembled together, reducing overall complexity while maintaining connection strength through standardized interfaces.
2Reliability
If numerous mechanical components and welding/molding processes are used, then the connection reliability is improved, but the manufacturing difficulty and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cylinder and buffer are manufactured as a single integrated component, eliminating the need for separate assembly operations. This reduces manufacturing steps and eliminates the complexity of aligning and securing multiple components, while maintaining connection reliability through the unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (pins, bolts, welding, molding) with a simplified attachment mechanism. The cushioning element is attached directly to the shutter mechanism through a straightforward connection process, reducing manufacturing complexity while ensuring reliable attachment.
3Strength
If the cylinder is attached using pins or bolts under compression, then the connection strength is improved, but the assembly and dismantling difficulty increase and safety risks arise
Solution Approach 1:
The cylinder and buffer are combined into a single unit that can be attached and detached as one piece. This eliminates the need to disassemble the cylinder to remove the buffer, simplifying the operation while maintaining connection strength through the integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of attaching the buffer to the cylinder and then the cylinder to the frame, the patent inverts the approach by making the buffer an integral part of the cylinder assembly. This allows the entire assembly to be attached to the frame in one operation, making both assembly and dismantling simpler and safer.
4Ease of operation
If a modular autonomous module is used, then the ease of installation and removal is improved, but the device complexity may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cylinder, buffer, and shutter mechanism are merged into a single autonomous module that functions as one integrated unit. This module can be installed and removed as a complete assembly, simplifying operations while the internal integration manages the complexity through coherent design.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular assembly is designed with universal attachment interfaces that can be used with different frame types and configurations. This multi-functionality allows the same module design to be applied across various applications, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining ease of installation and removal.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Simplifies the manufacturing, installation, and removal of closure devices, making them more economical and safer to handle, as the autonomous module can be managed by unskilled labor without requiring extensive tools or intervention with the thrust element, and reduces the manual force needed for operation.
Implementation Method 1
Compressed between the frame and the cover, the cylinder pushes on the frame to assist the cover's opening
Implementation Method 2
a thrust element having a first and a second end and having a relaxed configuration and a tensed configuration
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a sealing device which includes: a base body (30) suitable for sealing an opening (8), movable between an open position and a closed position; a thrust element (34) having first (36) and second (38) ends, and a tight configuration and a slack configuration, the first end (36) of the thrust element being connected to the base body (30). The sealing device also includes a linking element (42) connected to the base body (30) and connected to the second end (38) of the thrust element. The sealing device includes a bearing member (50). The linking element (42) allows the thrust element to change from the tight configuration to the slack configuration and vice-versa.