Foldable Safety Grate with Winch and Rollers for Manhole Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current safety grates for manholes are cumbersome and inefficient, requiring extensive setup and teardown for maintenance, and do not facilitate the safe use of accessories like cameras and hoses during work below ground level, posing risks to workers and increasing the risk of falls.
Innovation Solution
A temporary safety manhole cover that can be folded for easy transport, secured with a winch for safety, and equipped with rollers for cables, allowing only the underground operator to be harnessed, while enabling safe access and reducing setup time and weight for a single worker.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional safety barricades and equipment are erected for manhole maintenance, then worker safety is improved, but setup time and operational complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple safety functions into a single integrated grate structure. The grate integrates fall protection, equipment support, and access control functions that were previously provided by separate barricades, anchor points, and harness systems. This merging reduces setup time while maintaining safety standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The grate serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a physical barrier preventing falls, provides anchor points for harnesses, supports equipment like cameras and hoses, and controls access to the manhole. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate safety equipment pieces.
2Strength
If traditional heavy manhole covers are used, then structural strength is maintained, but portability and ease of handling deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The grate is divided into multiple modular panels that can be assembled together to cover the manhole opening. Each panel is lightweight and easy to handle, but when assembled, they provide sufficient structural strength to support workers and equipment. The modular design allows a single worker to easily install and remove the cover.
3Productivity
If traditional safety equipment is removed after maintenance, then storage space is saved, but repeated setup and teardown increases time loss
Solution Approach 1:
The grate is pre-assembled with all necessary safety features including anchor points and attachment mechanisms before being brought to the worksite. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for on-site assembly of multiple safety components, reducing setup time while maintaining safety standards.
4Productivity
If accessories like cameras and hoses are used during underground work, then work quality improves, but safety risks increase without proper accommodation
Solution Approach 1:
The grate acts as an intermediary structure that safely accommodates accessories like cameras and hoses. It provides designated openings and attachment points that allow these accessories to pass through or be secured to the grate, preventing them from becoming hazards while enabling underground workers to use them effectively.
Data Source
AI summary
A safety grill or grate for use with a camera and the like during maintenance.