Subfloor Hole Protector With Removable Cap for MPE Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing penetration holes in building construction are not effective in preventing framing contractors from blocking or easily removing PVC pipes inserted to comply with OSHA regulations, as these pipes are not securely attached and require significant work to remove when running mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems through the openings.
Innovation Solution
A hole protection device with a core cylinder and skirt that can be securely attached over penetration holes, featuring a removable knock-out cap and adjustable dimensions, allowing easy installation and removal of pipes while preventing framing contractors from blocking the holes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If PVC pipes are inserted into penetration holes to comply with OSHA regulations, then the holes are protected from being left open, but the pipes are not securely attached and can be easily removed or blocked by framing contractors
Solution Approach 1:
The hole protector device consists of a removable plug nested within a retention device. The plug fits inside the retention device, which is secured in the penetration hole. This nested structure allows the plug to be easily removed and reinstalled while the retention device remains securely in place, solving the contradiction between reliable hole protection and ease of pipe installation/removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The hole protection system is divided into separate functional components: a retention device that secures the hole and a removable plug that can be easily taken out. This segmentation allows different parts to serve different purposes - the retention device provides secure, permanent hole protection while the plug offers easy removability for pipe installation, resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation.
2Productivity
If framing contractors are allowed to freely access penetration holes during construction, then wall framing can be completed efficiently, but the holes may be blocked or covered making it difficult to run MPE systems through later
Solution Approach 1:
The retention device is installed in the penetration hole before wall framing begins. This preliminary action ensures the hole is protected from being blocked while allowing framing contractors to work around it efficiently. The device is positioned in advance to guide the framing process rather than obstruct it, maintaining productivity while preserving future MPE installation access.
3Reliability
If a secure device is used to cover penetration holes, then OSHA requirements are met and holes are protected, but the device may hinder subsequent running of MPE through the openings
Solution Approach 1:
The removable plug is nested within the retention device, allowing it to be easily extracted and reinserted through the same opening. This nested design minimizes the complexity of removal and reinstallation operations, as the plug can be accessed and manipulated independently without disturbing the securely installed retention device, thus maintaining both security and operational simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A building is constructed by providing a subfloor and forming a hole in the subfloor. A hole protector includes a cylinder, a skirt disposed around the cylinder, and a cap disposed on the cylinder. The hole protector is disposed over the hole with the cylinder extending into the hole. The hole protector is fastened to the subfloor. The cap is removed from the hole protector. An MPE is disposed through the cylinder.