Manhole Access Assembly with Rotating Shaft Locking Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manhole assembly designs require multiple high-security padlocks and complex key management, leading to increased costs and risks of component loss, as well as time-consuming operations for opening and closing, which complicates security and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
The access assembly incorporates rotatable or longitudinally moveable shafts with hooks that engage with cover plates, allowing for secure retention and easy release, reducing the number of padlocks needed and simplifying the locking mechanism, while utilizing the upstanding wall for support to minimize material usage and enhance security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple high-security padlocks are used to secure each cover plate, then security is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple padlocks are replaced by a single locking mechanism that secures the entire manhole cover assembly. The hasp engages with multiple staple lugs simultaneously, combining the security function of multiple padlocks into one unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
The hasp serves multiple functions: it provides the primary locking engagement, allows for secure padlock attachment, and works with multiple staple lugs positioned at different locations. This multi-functional component replaces several specialized padlocks.
2Reliability
If multiple padlocks are used for each cover plate, then security is improved, but loss of time for opening and closing operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The time required to manipulate multiple padlocks is consolidated into the operation of a single hasp and padlock system. The operator performs one locking action rather than multiple sequential padlock operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The hasp is pre-positioned and ready to engage with the staple lugs. The design allows the padlock to be attached to the hasp in advance, and the hasp itself is positioned to automatically engage with multiple lugs when the cover is closed, reducing operational time.
3Reliability
If multiple padlocks and keys are required, then security is improved, but risk of component loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple keys for multiple padlocks are replaced by a single key for a single padlock that secures the hasp. This consolidation dramatically reduces the number of keys and padlocks that could potentially be lost or misplaced.
Solution Approach 2:
The redundant padlocks and their associated keys are extracted from the system entirely. Only one padlock and one key remain, eliminating the risk associated with managing multiple cryptographic components.
4Reliability
If multiple high-security padlocks are used, then security is improved, but cost of the assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cost of multiple expensive high-security padlocks is replaced by the cost of one padlock and one hasp mechanism. The hasp itself provides structural security, reducing the dependency on multiple expensive locking components.
Solution Approach 2:
The hasp and staple lug system provides durable, reusable security infrastructure that replaces the need for multiple disposable or replaceable padlocks. The structural elements are designed to last, reducing long-term replacement costs.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An access assembly comprises: a frame including an upstanding wall defining a boundary having an aperture formed therein; one or more seatings, that are secured in the aperture, for supporting one or more cover plates; and one or more cover plates that are receivable in the aperture supported on one or more said seatings so as at least partially to close off the aperture. The access assembly includes one or more shaft supports supporting a moveable shaft, the moveable shaft including one or more shaft formations and at least a first said cover plate including one or more cover or frame formations, respective said shaft and cover or frame formations being mutually engageable, when the shaft occupies a first position to which it is moveable, so as to retain at least a first said cover plate relative to the frame; and being disengaged from one another when the shaft occupies a second position to which it is moveable so as to permit removal of at least the first cover plate from the frame.