Locking Mechanism for Storm Drain Grate Cover
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Storm drain grates in road construction often detach from their frames due to traffic forces, leading to exposed conduits and maintenance access issues, and existing solutions like solidification or weights either prevent detachment but hinder maintenance or complicate removal.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism with a blocker that undergoes elastic deformation, featuring latches pivotally connected to the grate, allowing for secure attachment to the frame while enabling easy removal for maintenance by transitioning between open and locked positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the grate is solidified to the frame, then the grate stays connected to the frame, but it prevents later access to the conduit for maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate modular components: blockers that can be independently inserted into openings, latches that are pivotally connected to the grate, and distinct engagement/disengagement actions. This segmentation allows the connection to be established and released without requiring complete disassembly, resolving the contradiction between stable connection and maintenance accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static solidified connection to a dynamic reversible connection. The blockers can be moved between engaged and disengaged states, and the latches can pivot between locked and unlocked positions, allowing the system to adapt between providing stable connection during normal operation and enabling easy access during maintenance.
2Reliability
If weights are installed to weight the grate down toward the frame, then the grate remains attached, but it makes removal difficult during maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is extracted from permanent weights and transferred to removable blockers and pivotally connected latches. The blockers can be taken out from the openings, and the latches can be pivoted open, allowing the grate to be removed easily for maintenance while still providing stable attachment during normal operation when the blockers are inserted and latches are closed.
3Strength
If the cover undergoes elastic deformation to fit snugly, then it attaches securely, but it may detach under traffic forces
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic deformation capability is prepared in advance by designing the cover with specific opening configurations that allow controlled deformation. The blockers are pre-positioned to engage with these openings, and the latches are pre-configured to lock in the deformed position, creating a secure attachment that resists traffic forces while maintaining the ability to be released for maintenance.
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 locking mechanism securely attaches the grate to the frame, preventing detachment while allowing for elastic deformation to fit snugly, and can be easily unlocked for maintenance, addressing both safety and accessibility concerns.
Implementation Method 1
The cover has at least a portion able to undergo elastic deformation
Data Source
AI summary
A locking mechanism for a cover having at least a portion able to undergo elastic deformation and including at least one opening disposed at least partially in the at least portion of the cover able to undergo elastic deformation is provided. The locking mechanism includes at least one blocker movable between an open position where the at least one blocker is disengaged from the at least one opening, and a locked position where the at least one blocker is engaged in the at least one opening. In the locked position, the at least one blocker prevents at least partially elastic deformation of the at least portion of the cover. A cover and locking mechanism assembly is also provided.