Expandable Secondary Riser Lid for Secure Tool-Free Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing secondary lids for riser systems require removal for access, are heavy and difficult to handle, and lack secure, tool-free operation and installation flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A secondary lid system with an expandable ring and hinged top that allows tool-free opening and closing, is lightweight, and can be installed in various diameter risers without removal, featuring a ratchet for diameter adjustment and a mounting plug for versatile installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a secondary lid is made heavy (e.g., concrete) to prevent removal by children or animals, then security against unauthorized access is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates because contractors must remove the lid for maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary lid is divided into two functional parts: a heavy stationary base that remains installed for security, and a removable top portion that can be easily detached for maintenance access. This segmentation allows the heavy base to prevent unauthorized access while the removable top enables easy operation by contractors.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid transitions from a static, permanently fixed design to a dynamic system where the top portion can be easily removed and reinstalled. The expandable ring with ratchet mechanism provides adjustable securement that maintains security when closed but allows easy access when needed, creating a dynamic security system.
2Reliability
If a secondary lid is fixed in place with screws or fasteners, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates because contractors must remove fasteners to access the riser
Solution Approach 1:
The lid structure separates the security function (expandable ring with ratchet that remains in place) from the access function (removable top). This allows the security mechanism to stay fixed while the access portion can be easily removed without dealing with screws or fasteners.
Solution Approach 2:
The top portion is extracted as a separate, removable element from the fixed expandable ring structure. This extraction allows the top to be easily removed for maintenance while the ring remains securely installed, eliminating the need to remove fasteners.
3Reliability
If a secondary lid is designed to be permanently installed within the riser, then security is improved, but adaptability deteriorates because it cannot be installed in various diameter risers
Solution Approach 1:
The expandable ring incorporates a ratchet mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment of the ring's circumference to match different riser diameters. Once expanded and ratcheted into place, the ring provides permanent, secure installation while maintaining adaptability across various riser sizes during the installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The ring's circumference parameter can be changed during installation to accommodate different riser diameters. The expandable design allows the ring to be adjusted to the specific diameter of the riser it will be installed in, providing both permanent security and adaptability to various dimensions.
4Reliability
If a secondary lid requires tool removal for access, then security is improved, but productivity deteriorates because maintenance time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the lid into a fixed security portion and a removable access portion, contractors can quickly remove only the necessary access component without dealing with tools or fasteners, significantly reducing maintenance time while preserving security.
Solution Approach 2:
The top portion is extracted as a separate, tool-free removal element that can be quickly taken off for maintenance and replaced afterward. This extraction eliminates the time-consuming process of removing screws or fasteners, boosting maintenance productivity while the remaining structure maintains security.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed embodiments include a secondary lid for installation in a riser. The secondary lid may comprise a top configured to cover an opening in the riser, an expandable ring configured to attach to an inner circumference of the riser, and wherein the expandable ring may comprise at least one hinge configured to attach the top to the expandable ring