Manhole Cover Hinge Locking Geometry for Easy Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manhole covers are heavy and sturdy, making them difficult to lift and maneuver, and lack efficient mechanisms for secure closure and opening positions.
Innovation Solution
A hinge assembly with tines and projections that allow the cover to rotate between open and closed positions, incorporating a slot and locking mechanism to ensure secure closure and easy opening, utilizing gravity for retention in the open position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the manhole cover is made heavy and sturdy to withstand heavy loads and prevent unauthorized access, then the strength and security are improved, but the ease of operation (lifting and maneuvering) deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The manhole cover is divided into two separate components: a heavy frame structure that provides strength and security, and a separate cover that can be easily lifted and maneuvered. The frame remains in place while the cover can be removed independently, allowing the heavy load-bearing function to be separated from the ease of operation requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
A hinge assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the frame and the cover, enabling easy rotation and positioning of the cover while the frame maintains structural integrity. The hinge allows the cover to rotate between open and closed positions without requiring the entire assembly to be lifted, thus maintaining both strength and ease of operation.
2Reliability
If a secure closure mechanism is implemented to ensure safe closure, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly incorporates a self-locking mechanism where the geometry of the hinge components automatically secures the cover in the closed position without requiring additional locking devices or complex mechanisms. The interlocking surfaces of the hinge provide passive security, maintaining reliability while minimizing added complexity.
3Ease of operation
If a hinge assembly with locking mechanism is added to enable secure closure and easy opening, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly combines multiple functions into a single integrated component: it provides the pivot point for rotation, the locking mechanism for secure closure, and the structural connection between the frame and cover. By merging these functions into one assembly rather than using separate components for each function, the overall device complexity is minimized while maintaining ease of operation.
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
Facilitates easy lifting and secure closure of manhole covers, ensuring they remain open for access and closed for safety without requiring excessive force, while providing a cost-effective solution.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing gravity for retention in the open position
Data Source
AI summary
A closure assembly includes a frame, a cover, and a hinge assembly. The hinge assembly selectively connects the frame to the cover to allow rotation between an open position and a closed position. The hinge assembly includes at least one tine formed on an edge of the cover, a projection extending from the at least one tine, at least one wall formed on an upper surface of the frame, and a slot formed in the at least one wall that receives the projection. The slot includes a rotation section, an opening radiating from the rotation section, and a locking section radiating from the rotation section. The locking section allows the cover to rotate to an angle greater than ninety degrees when the projection is at least partially in the locking section. The locking section and the opening have a non-180 degree angular offset relative to one another.