Manhole Upper Part Rib Reinforcement for Deformation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manhole tops are prone to deformation under compressive loads due to lack of reinforcement in the transition area between the manhole cone and access part, have high production costs, and lack safe handling and transportation features, leading to increased accident risks.
Innovation Solution
The manhole upper part features at least three sections with parallel stiffening elements, reinforcing elements that connect the access part and cone, and integrated transport and securing elements for safe handling, made from cost-effective thermoplastically processable materials like polypropylene, ensuring efficient load transfer and rigidity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the transition area between the manhole cone and access part is left unreinforced, then the production costs are reduced, but the area becomes prone to deformation under compressive loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local reinforcement through ribs specifically at the transition area between the access part and manhole cone, while leaving other areas with simpler geometry. This localized approach provides structural support where needed without unnecessarily increasing production costs across the entire component.
Solution Approach 2:
The upper shaft part is divided into distinct sections (access part, transition area with ribs, manhole cone) with the reinforcement ribs creating segmented structural zones. This segmentation allows each area to be optimized for its specific functional requirements while maintaining overall structural integrity.
2Strength
If vertical compression struts are added to transfer traffic loads, then the load transfer capability is improved, but the production costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the outwardly curved basic shape of the manhole cone to provide structural strength and load distribution. The curvature itself acts as a structural element that helps transfer loads, reducing the need for additional vertical compression struts that would increase production costs.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of adding comprehensive vertical reinforcement throughout the structure, the patent applies localized rib reinforcement at the critical transition area where compressive stresses are highest, providing cost-effective structural support only where needed.
3Device complexity
If no transport devices are provided, then the device complexity is reduced, but the safety risk during lifting and transportation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transport devices are integrated into the existing rib structure of the upper shaft part. The ribs serve dual purposes: reinforcing the transition area structurally and providing attachment points for lifting operations. This merging eliminates the need for separate transport devices while maintaining safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The structural ribs of the manhole upper part itself are utilized to provide transport functionality. The component serves its own transport needs through its inherent structural elements, eliminating the need for additional dedicated transport mechanisms.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a manhole top piece (10) for a manhole, comprising an access part (11) and a manhole cone (12) which connects to the access part and can be placed on an additional manhole structure part with a connecting element (13) on the side of the manhole cone upstream of the access part, the manhole cone (12) having a substantially convex basic shape. The manhole cone has at least three sections in which substantially parallel reinforcing elements are provided.