Tapered Wedge Manhole Device for Construction Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manholes pose safety hazards during construction as they are often left open, allowing debris and vehicles to fall in, and existing cover devices are prone to being knocked out of position, requiring frequent reinstallation.
Innovation Solution
A manhole device with a main body comprising an upper and lower portion, secured within the manhole using a tapered wedge mechanism, providing alignment and a barrier to prevent access during construction, and easily removable for final completion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cover device is placed on top of the manhole opening, then access to the manhole is prevented during construction, but the device can be easily knocked out of position allowing the problem to reoccur
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two distinct portions: an upper portion that protrudes above surface level to provide visibility and a barrier, and a lower portion that extends below surface level to engage with the manhole structure. This segmentation allows each portion to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The lower portion of the device is positioned within the manhole opening, with its outer surface engaging against the inner surface of the manhole. This nested configuration ensures the device is retained within the manhole structure and cannot be easily dislodged, while still allowing the upper portion to protrude for its protective function.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a cover device is placed on the manhole opening during construction, then debris and vehicles are prevented from falling in, but the device needs to be removed when final construction is completed
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a removable upper portion that can be separated from the lower portion. This dynamic design allows the upper portion to be removed after construction is completed, eliminating the need to remove the entire device and reducing the time required for final construction completion.
3Ease of operation
If the manhole opening is left open during construction, then construction vehicles and operatives can access it, but health and safety issues arise and debris can fall through
Solution Approach 1:
The device is positioned in the manhole opening before final construction completion, providing a barrier that prevents debris and vehicles from falling in during the construction process. The upper portion protrudes above surface level to provide early warning and protection.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device securely covers manholes, preventing accidents and debris entry, while allowing construction alignment and easy removal post-completion, enhancing safety and construction efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
secured within the manhole using a tapered wedge mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A manhole device and corresponding system including a manhole is described. The manhole device comprises a main body having an upper portion, a lower portion and a securing means. The securing means is engageable with the manhole such that when secured to the manhole, the upper portion protrudes above a surface level and the lower portion is retained below the surface level in the manhole. The main body provides means for alignment for construction around the manhole while providing a barrier to prevent access to vehicles, people and debris during the construction process. A method of construction is also provided.