Adjustable Manhole Riser Sleeve with Contoured Marking Tool

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing manhole riser extension assemblies are inefficient in raising the manhole cover frame to a new permanent level, as they rely on multiple rings and require complex fastening and welding, which limits adaptability and precision in matching varying pavement grades and inclinations.

Innovation Solution

A system utilizing a customizable, flexible riser sleeve and interengaging annular riser flange rings, along with a contoured marking tool for precise cutting, allows for easy adjustment and secure assembly to match the street level pavement edge height, enabling efficient and adaptable manhole refurbishment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If multiple rings with fasteners and welding are used to raise the manhole cover frame, then the structural strength is improved, but the device complexity and ease of manufacture deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural strengthVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple separate rings into a single integrated riser sleeve component that can be custom-cut to the required height. This merging eliminates the need for multiple fasteners and welding operations while maintaining structural integrity through the unified design of the sleeve with integrated flanges and engagement features.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The riser sleeve is designed with segmented functional zones including top and bottom flanges for engagement, a customizable midsection for height adjustment, and integrated sealing surfaces. This segmentation allows each portion to serve its specific function while being part of a single manufacturable component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Strength

If multiple rings with fasteners and welding are used to raise the manhole cover frame, then the structural strength is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidease of manufacture

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The riser sleeve is manufactured with customizable parameters including height, flange dimensions, and engagement features that can be adjusted during the cutting and forming process. This allows the same basic component design to be adapted to different installation requirements without requiring multiple specialized parts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If a fixed-size riser sleeve is used, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the adaptability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanufacturing precisionVSAvoidadaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The riser sleeve system transitions from fixed-size manufactured parts to a dynamic, customizable component that can be cut to various heights and configurations. This allows the same base component to adapt to different installation requirements while maintaining manufacturing precision through standardized forming processes followed by precise field cutting.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The riser sleeve is designed as a universal component with standardized flange interfaces and engagement features that can accommodate various heights and applications. The customizable cutting capability allows a single component design to serve multiple functions across different installation scenarios.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Adaptability or versatility

If custom-cutting of the riser sleeve is implemented, then the adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The riser sleeve is pre-manufactured with precise flange dimensions, engagement features, and sealing surfaces before field installation. This preliminary precision manufacturing of critical interfaces is followed by controlled cutting to the required height, ensuring that adaptability is achieved without compromising the precision of functional surfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12024845B2Method for manhole riser extensions

Publication Date: 2024.07.02 CRITEX LLC

AI summary

A manhole riser system including upper and lower flanged rings with an adjustable height sleeve for raising the height of the manhole support cover frame to a new pavement level. The adjustable height sleeve is cut and overlapped for various dimensions and a pavement grade marking assembly provides for custom height cutting during placement assembly within the manhole.