Eccentric Catch Basin Frame Asymmetry
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing frames for catch basins and manholes create an elbow configuration that reduces water flow efficiency and may not adequately support vehicle loads, as the lower flange often does not fit properly on the rim of the inlet, leading to potential structural integrity issues.
Innovation Solution
A frame with a hollow body and passageway that has an asymmetrical cross-sectional shape, allowing the inlet passageway to be in communication with the frame passageway without creating an elbow, and featuring a lower end extending partially into the inlet passageway to reduce surface area and improve load support, made from materials like ductile iron or polymer for durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the lower flange is positioned to rest on top of the inlet with part of the passageway vertically above the inlet and part above the rim, then the grate can be positioned close to the curb to optimize water flow, but this creates an elbow configuration that reduces water flow efficiency and the flange may overhang without proper support
Solution Approach 1:
The frame employs an asymmetrical cross-sectional design where the hollow body has a first side extending further than the second side. This asymmetry allows the frame to be positioned eccentrically relative to the circular inlet, enabling the grate to be located close to the curb for optimized water flow while eliminating the need for an elbow configuration. The asymmetrical shape inscribes within the circular inlet profile, ensuring proper fit and support without overhanging flanges.
2Strength
If the lower flange is positioned to rest on top of the inlet rim, then the frame can support the grate, but the flange may not fit adequately and may overhang above the inlet, creating structural integrity issues under vehicle loads
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetrical cross-sectional configuration of the hollow body allows strategic positioning within the circular inlet. The first side of the asymmetrical shape extends further to provide enhanced support near the curb where vehicle loads are greatest, while the second side extends less, ensuring the entire frame fits within the inlet boundaries without overhanging. This asymmetrical design optimizes load distribution across the frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame exhibits local quality variations through its asymmetrical cross-section, with different side lengths providing differentiated support characteristics. The longer first side provides enhanced load-bearing capacity in high-stress areas near the curb, while the shorter second side ensures proper fit within the inlet. This localized variation in structural properties optimizes both strength and reliability without requiring a uniform design throughout.
Data Source
AI summary
A frame for a cover for an inlet of one of a catch basin and a manhole is provided. The inlet has an inlet passageway having a first cross-sectional shape having an axis of symmetry. A hollow body of the frame defines a frame passageway and has a second cross-sectional shape having first and second sides opposite to one another. When the frame is installed, the hollow body has a lower end extending partially within at least one of the inlet passageway and a head portion reducing a surface area of the inlet passageway. The second cross-sectional shape is inscribed within the first cross-sectional shape, and a distance of the first side of the second cross-sectional shape to the axis of symmetry of the first cross-sectional shape is different from distance of the second side of the second cross-sectional shape to the axis of symmetry of the first cross-sectional shape.