Pedestal Enclosure With Multi-Rim Base For Utility Components
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing utility pedestals often lack versatility and accessibility, as they are typically designed to accommodate only a single type and size of cover, limiting their ability to house various utility components and preventing debris entry.
Innovation Solution
A pedestal housing design featuring a base with multiple rims (first and second) that allows for the use of different-sized covers, providing increased versatility and preventing debris entry, with the base and covers made from materials like polymer concrete and thermoplastics, respectively, and configured for easy installation and component integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a pedestal is designed with a single fixed cover size, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the versatility to accommodate different utility components is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The pedestal base is designed with multiple rims of different sizes (first rim, second rim, and optionally third rim) that can accommodate different cover configurations. This allows a single base structure to serve multiple functions by supporting various cover sizes and types, enabling the pedestal to house different utility components while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The pedestal is divided into modular components: a base structure with multiple rims and interchangeable covers. The base remains constant while covers can be selected and installed based on specific utility component requirements, allowing flexible configuration without redesigning the entire pedestal structure
2Reliability
If a pedestal uses a single cover type, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the ability to provide appropriate protection for various components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The base structure with multiple rims is designed to universally accept different cover types and sizes. Each rim configuration provides appropriate protection levels for different utility components while maintaining compatibility with a standardized base design, ensuring reliable debris protection without requiring custom manufacturing for each application
3Volume of stationary object
If the pedestal interior space is expanded to house more components, then the utility capacity increases, but the susceptibility to damage from mowing equipment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pedestal design utilizes vertical dimension by incorporating multiple rims at different heights (first rim, second rim below it, and optionally third rim). This vertical segmentation allows the pedestal to provide adequate interior space for utility components while maintaining a compact footprint that reduces exposure to ground-level hazards like mowing equipment
Data Source
AI summary
A pedestal housing for utility connections includes a lower section having a plurality of walls, an upper surface, and a bottom opening. A first rim is formed on the lower section positioned below the upper surface. A second rim is formed on the lower section positioned below the first rim. An upper section includes a plurality of walls and a top. The upper section is releasably connected to the lower section to form a housing for receiving one or more utility components. The upper section is configured to mate with one of the first rim or the second rim.