Segmented Triangular Manhole Cover for Surface Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation and removal of heavy manhole covers are labor-intensive and require significant muscle strength, often causing damage to the surrounding surface and manhole structures, and existing solutions do not provide adequate stability or safety for use in roadways with motor vehicle traffic.
Innovation Solution
A manhole cover design combining triangular elements with translational freedom, allowing them to align and form a composite square shape for easy lifting and sliding, with a rolling device and locking mechanism for secure positioning, eliminating the need for screws and reducing wear and tear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If heavy manhole covers are pulled out using special tools, then the manhole cover can be removed, but disruptive grooves and scratches appear on the surrounding surface
Solution Approach 1:
The manhole cover is divided into multiple segments (first cover plate and second cover plate) that can be independently manipulated. This segmentation allows the cover to be opened by rotating one plate relative to the other, eliminating the need for heavy pulling tools and preventing surface damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover structure incorporates rotational movement capability through the articulation of the first cover plate relative to the second cover plate. This dynamic design enables the cover to be opened and closed by rotation rather than by lifting and dragging, thereby protecting the surrounding surface from damage.
2Ease of operation
If heavy manhole covers are pushed into the manhole frame, then the cover can be installed, but the process is tedious and requires considerable muscle strength
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented design allows each cover plate to be independently positioned and secured. The first cover plate can be rotated relative to the second cover plate, enabling installation without requiring considerable muscle strength to push the entire heavy cover into place.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotational mechanism between the first and second cover plates provides a mechanical advantage that reduces the force required for installation. The cover can be opened and closed by rotation rather than by pushing, significantly reducing the muscle strength needed.
3Reliability
If screws are used to secure the manhole cover to the frame, then the cover is secured, but the bolts can loosen and come out of the road surface causing damage to motor vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The articulation mechanism between the first and second cover plates provides inherent stability that eliminates the need for protruding bolts. The rotational connection maintains secure positioning while preventing the cover from moving or rattling, thereby eliminating the risk of bolt loosening and vehicle damage.
4Productivity
If the manhole cover is made accessible for quick service, then inspection can be performed, but the cover must be completely removed which is labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented design with two independently movable cover plates allows for quick access to the manhole. Only one plate needs to be rotated open for inspection, eliminating the need to remove the entire heavy cover and significantly reducing the labor required for access.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotational mechanism enables rapid opening and closing of the cover plates without heavy lifting or complex removal procedures. This dynamic design allows quick service access while maintaining ease of operation throughout the process.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a manhole cover for covering a shaft, in particular a utility shaft, wherein the manhole cover is formed from triangular elements. According to the invention, the triangular elements (2, 3) consist of a circumferential frame (4) such that a cavity 5 is formed, wherein the two triangular elements (2, 3) are slidably mounted relative to each other.