Flexible Latching Cover for Curb Floor Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing covers for floor openings near curbs are cumbersome to install and maintain, prone to contamination and corrosion, requiring multiple tools and leading to potential safety issues due to complex locking mechanisms that can become stuck or require frequent servicing.
Innovation Solution
A cover design featuring flexible, self-locking latching connections with elastic elements that require minimal maintenance and can be easily opened with simple tools, eliminating the need for complex mechanisms and reducing the risk of application errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional screw-based locking devices are used to secure the cover body to the frame, then the cover can be reliably locked against lifting, but the locking device becomes complex, requires multiple tools for operation, and is prone to contamination and corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complex screw-based locking mechanism and extracts only the essential locking function. The solution uses simple protrusions on the cover body that engage with corresponding recesses in the frame, eliminating screws, keys, and multiple components while maintaining reliable locking against lifting forces
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using active locking elements (screws that must be turned and tightened), the patent uses passive geometric interlocking where the cover body's shape itself provides the locking function through complementary protrusions and recesses, inverting the approach from active mechanical fastening to passive form-fit connection
2Reliability
If screw-based locking devices are used, then the cover can be secured to the frame, but the locking device requires frequent maintenance, cleaning, and lubrication to prevent sticking
Solution Approach 1:
The simplified geometric locking mechanism requires no maintenance, cleaning, or lubrication. The interlocking protrusions and recesses are self-explanatory and self-executing, eliminating the need for operational knowledge or maintenance activities associated with screw-based systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, robust geometric features that are inherently resistant to wear and contamination. The locking function is achieved through basic shape complementarity rather than precision-machined threaded connections, making the system inherently more durable and maintenance-free
3Reliability
If complex locking devices with multiple components are used, then the cover can be securely locked, but the installation and removal process becomes time-consuming and requires specialized tools
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is segmented into simple, distributed geometric features across the cover body and frame rather than concentrated in a single complex mechanism. Multiple simple protrusions and recesses provide cumulative locking security without requiring any single component to be complex
Solution Approach 2:
The cover body is pre-shaped with lifting handles and geometric locking features during manufacturing. The handles are integrated into the cover structure itself, eliminating the need for separate lifting tools, and the locking geometry is built-in rather than requiring assembly of multiple components
4Reliability
If traditional locking mechanisms are used, then the cover can be secured against lifting, but the risk of application errors and unsafe installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses geometric shape complementarity as a visual and tactile guide for correct installation. The protrusions and recesses are designed to fit together like puzzle pieces, providing inherent visual feedback that guides the installer to the correct orientation and position, eliminating application errors
Solution Approach 2:
The geometric interlocking mechanism is self-explanatory and self-correcting. The shape itself provides instructions for proper installation, and the lifting handles are integrated into the cover structure, making the entire installation process intuitive and error-proof without requiring specialized knowledge or tools
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
The cover can be quickly and securely installed and maintained with reduced risk of contamination and corrosion, ensuring safety and minimizing downtime during maintenance, as it requires no special tools and is cost-effective with a reliable locking system.
Implementation Method 1
having at least one flexurally elastic latching element and a latching element receptacle
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
A cover (1) for a floor opening (101) in the area of a kerb (102), comprising a cover body (10) with a top (11) and a bottom (12), wherein the top (11) has a traffic surface (13) and, at its periphery, an elongated platform surface (31) of an elongated platform (30). The platform surface (31) is positioned higher than the traffic surface (13). Furthermore, the cover (1) has a frame (40) into which the cover body (10) can be inserted and from which the cover body (10) can be removed. It is provided that at least one locking connection (50, 60) is formed between the cover body (10) and the frame (40) when the cover body (10) is inserted into the frame (40), wherein the locking connection (50, 60) is arranged below the traffic surface (13) and has at least one flexible locking element (51, 61) and a locking element receptacle (52, 62).