Clamp-On Manhole Marker Assembly for Visibility and Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manholes in underground utility lines are often obscured by undergrowth or at risk of damage during construction, necessitating a system for protection and identification.
Innovation Solution
A manhole marker assembly comprising a base with upward-extending markers and jaws that attach to the manhole cover, allowing for secure attachment and visibility, with movable jaws and a pivotable marker for various configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a manhole marker assembly is designed to be highly visible and protective, then visibility and protection are improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple components including jaws, markers, and attachment mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The marker assembly is divided into separate functional components: a base portion that attaches to the manhole cover, multiple adjustable jaws for securing, and separate marker elements that extend upward for visibility. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The marker assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides visual identification through upward-extending markers, protects the manhole cover through engaging jaws, and offers adjustable positioning. The same structure accomplishes identification, protection, and attachment without requiring separate devices.
2Ease of operation
If the marker assembly uses movable jaws for attachment, then ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to movable and adjustable components
Solution Approach 1:
The jaws are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to adjust to different positions and angles. This dynamic capability enables the assembly to be easily attached to and removed from manhole covers of varying sizes and orientations, improving operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable jaws can change their positional parameters to accommodate different attachment scenarios. By varying the jaw positions and angles, the assembly can adapt to different manhole cover configurations without requiring multiple specialized devices.
3Loss of information
If the marker extends upward beyond the base for visibility, then identification is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the additional structural components
Solution Approach 1:
The marker elements extend vertically upward from the base in the vertical dimension, creating a visible profile that rises above the manhole cover. This dimensional extension provides visual identification without requiring complex signaling systems or additional horizontal components.
Data Source
AI summary
A manhole marker assembly for attaching to a manhole cover to identify a manhole comprises a marker assembly base, a marker mounted to the marker assembly base, and a clamp mounted to the marker assembly base. The clamp comprises a first jaw and a second jaw. At least one of the first jaw and the second jaw are movable and can be engaged to a manhole cover to attach the manhole marker assembly to the manhole cover.