Manhole Cover Support Ring with Segmented Insert Block
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manufacturers face challenges in producing and managing different types of manhole entry aid holders for road manhole covers, as customers often require various attachments, leading to storage and logistics issues due to the need for multiple support rings.
Innovation Solution
A cast iron insert block is designed to be positively fixed within a recess of the support ring, allowing for different manhole aid holders to be easily integrated without altering the support ring's outer contour, with the insert block's design accommodating various entry aids and ensuring robust and durable attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different types of support rings are produced for different manhole entry aids, then customer requirements are met, but storage and delivery logistics become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The support ring is segmented into a base support ring and separate insert blocks. The base support ring remains uniform while insert blocks are attached to provide different entry aid holder configurations. This segmentation allows the same base support ring to serve multiple functions with different insert blocks, reducing the number of support ring variants needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The base support ring is designed as a universal component that can accommodate multiple types of insert blocks. Each insert block provides different entry aid holder configurations, allowing a single base support ring design to fulfill multiple customer requirements. This multi-functionality eliminates the need to produce different support ring types for different entry aids.
2Adaptability or versatility
If insert blocks are added to the support ring, then adaptability to different entry aids is improved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The entry aid holder system is segmented into modular insert blocks that can be independently attached to the base support ring. Each insert block contains specific holder configurations, and blocks can be selectively attached or removed based on customer requirements. This segmentation maintains simplicity by keeping the base support ring unchanged while providing complexity only where needed through optional insert blocks.
3Shape
If the insert block top is arranged below the cover support surface, then cover support uniformity is maintained, but the insert block integration becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The insert blocks are pre-formed with their tops positioned below the cover support surface level. This preliminary positioning ensures that when installed, they do not interfere with the uniform support of the cover. The recesses in the base support ring are also pre-formed to accommodate the insert blocks, making the integration process straightforward despite the depth requirement.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
The cover has a frame (1) including a bearing ring (1a) formed of cast iron, carrying a lid, and surrounding an access opening of a manhole, where the frame is closable by the lid. The bearing ring includes a retainer for mounting an aid e.g. manhole access aid, insertable in a manhole. The retainer is arranged in an insertion block (6), which is separated from the bearing ring. The insertion block is fixed in an adequate recess (5) of the bearing ring in a form-fit manner. The insertion block includes side surfaces (10, 11) resting opposite to each other.