Modular Pit Frame with Segmented Rim for Lid Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing technologies for meter pit or tile frames require multiple frames to accommodate different lid configurations and tile diameters, leading to inefficiencies and increased inventory needs.
Innovation Solution
A modular pit frame design featuring a riser and a collar with a modular rim configuration that includes multiple rim sections of varying depths to accommodate different lid types and tile diameters, allowing for a single frame to support various lid configurations and tile sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different frames are used to accommodate different lid configurations and tile diameters, then each specific lid type can be properly supported, but inventory requirements and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is designed with a modular rim system that can be configured in multiple ways to accommodate different lid types (cast iron, plastic, composite) and tile diameters. The rim sections can be rearranged or replaced to match various locking mechanisms (spring lock, rotating lock, worm lock), allowing a single frame body to serve multiple functions that previously required separate frames for each lid configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The rim of the frame is divided into separate modular sections that can be independently configured. These rim sections can be arranged in different patterns and combinations to create the specific rim profiles needed for different lid types and locking mechanisms, enabling one frame to replace multiple specialized frames.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different frames are maintained in inventory to accommodate various tile diameters, then proper fit for each tile size is achieved, but inventory requirements and storage needs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable rim sections that can be dynamically arranged to match different tile diameters (15, 18, 20, 21, 24, 27, 30, and 36 inches). This dynamic reconfiguration capability allows the same frame body to adapt to various tile sizes without requiring separate static frames for each diameter.
Solution Approach 2:
A single frame design serves multiple tile diameter applications through its modular rim system, eliminating the need to maintain separate inventory of frames for each tile size. The universal frame can be quickly reconfigured between different diameter requirements.
3Reliability
If specialized frames are designed for each lid locking mechanism, then proper locking engagement is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rim is segmented into standardized sections that can be assembled in different configurations to match various locking mechanisms. This segmentation allows a single production line to manufacture universal frame bodies, with rim sections configured post-manufacturing to match the specific locking mechanism requirements, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining reliable engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame body is manufactured with preliminary features and mounting points that accommodate multiple locking mechanism types. The specific rim configuration for each locking mechanism is applied as a preliminary preparation step before final assembly, allowing standardized manufacturing of the frame body while enabling customization for different locking mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular pit frame is provided. The modular pit frame is configured to receive a lid which fits over a tile and has one of a plurality of lid types. This modular pit frame also includes a riser having an opening bordered by a modular rim that includes a plurality of rim sections. Each of the plurality of rim sections is configured to accommodate a lid type of the plurality of lid types. The plurality of rim sections also includes a first rim section, a second rim section, and a third rim section. The first rim section includes a first rim wall that depends into the opening and forms a first portion of a periphery of the opening. The second rim section includes a second rim wall that depends into the opening and forms a second portion of the periphery of the opening. The second rim wall depends further into the opening than the first rim wall.