Manhole Cover Latch Shock Absorber for Pressure Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manhole covers can be dislodged by sudden pressure increases from events like explosions or flooding, potentially causing them to be launched into the air and leading to damage or safety hazards, and existing solutions may damage the frame or surface they are secured to.
Innovation Solution
A manhole cover assembly with a latch and lug assembly that includes shock absorbers to dissipate energy and limit displacement, preventing the cover from being launched and protecting the frame and surface by allowing controlled reseating after pressure subsides.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a heavy cast iron manhole cover is used to prevent dislodging and unauthorized access, then security and stability are improved, but the cover can still be dislodged by explosions or flooding and may cause damage or safety hazards when launched into the air
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a shock absorber assembly with a spring and damper mechanism that is pre-installed on the manhole cover. This cushioning system is activated before the cover can be launched, absorbing the energy from explosions or flooding and preventing the cover from being propelled into the air, thereby eliminating the harmful effects while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The shock absorber assembly acts as an intermediary between the manhole cover and the frame. Instead of allowing direct force transmission that could launch the cover, the shock absorber mediates the interaction by controlling the displacement and absorbing the impact energy, preventing the cover from becoming a projectile while maintaining its security function.
2Stress or pressure
If existing pressure release solutions are used, then pressure buildup is relieved, but the frame or surface may be damaged in the process
Solution Approach 1:
The shock absorber assembly is pre-installed on the manhole cover to provide cushioning before pressure release occurs. When pressure builds up, the shock absorber controls the cover's displacement and absorbs the impact energy, allowing pressure to be relieved without the cover striking the frame or surrounding surfaces with enough force to cause damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful high-pressure situation into a beneficial controlled pressure release. The shock absorber mechanism transforms the potentially damaging force from pressure buildup into a controlled displacement that safely releases pressure while protecting the frame and surrounding surfaces from damage.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the manhole cover is securely fixed to prevent movement, then stability is improved, but the cover cannot be removed for maintenance or access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic latch assembly that can transition between locked and unlocked states. The latch is normally engaged to provide stability and prevent unauthorized access, but it can be easily disengaged by a tool or mechanism to allow legitimate maintenance access. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction between stability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The manhole cover system incorporates self-latching mechanisms that automatically engage when the cover is placed on the frame, providing stability without requiring manual intervention. For maintenance access, the latch can be easily released using a simple tool or mechanism, allowing the cover to be removed without complex operations. The system serves itself by automatically maintaining security while enabling easy access when needed.
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 solution effectively absorbs and dissipates energy from pressure-inducing events, preventing damage to the manhole frame and surrounding surfaces while ensuring the manhole cover returns to its seated position, enhancing safety and reducing maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
A latch spring is positioned within the latch cylinder adjacent the latch piston
Implementation Method 2
A latch shock absorber of the latch assembly includes a latch housing fixedly coupled to the manhole cover
Data Source
AI summary
A manhole cover assembly includes a manhole cover and a latch assembly. The manhole cover is movable between a seated position in which the manhole cover is supported on a seat of a manhole frame, and an unseated position in which the manhole cover is displaced relative to the seat of the manhole frame. A shock absorber includes a housing fixedly coupled to the manhole cover. The housing defines a cylinder. A piston is slidably coupled to the cylinder. A rod is fixedly coupled to the piston. A spring is positioned within the cylinder adjacent the piston. A latch is fixedly coupled to the rod. In response to a pressure applied to the manhole cover, the latch assembly is configured to permit limited displacement of the manhole cover relative to the seat of the manhole frame, and to controllably dissipate energy relating to the pressure.