Universal Lid for Septic Tank Riser Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for septic and water tanks require multiple lids of different sizes and shapes to fit various openings, leading to increased manufacturing costs and inventory complexity, especially when dealing with undulating wall risers.
Innovation Solution
A kit comprising frusto-conical rings with interchangeable ends and a fitting system that includes a flange, web, and gasket configuration, allowing a single lid to seal both small and large ends of the riser, and the tank top opening, with optional tabs and bosses for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple lids of different sizes and shapes are provided for different openings, then each opening can be properly sealed, but manufacturing costs and inventory complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is designed with a universal configuration that allows it to seal multiple types of openings (tank top openings and riser openings of different diameters) using the same lid design. The lid includes an annular flange with engagement features that can interface with both tank fittings and riser sections, eliminating the need for different lid sizes and shapes for different openings.
2Reliability
If multiple lids of different sizes and shapes are provided for different openings, then each opening can be properly sealed, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is designed with a universal configuration that allows it to seal multiple types of openings (tank top openings and riser openings of different diameters) using the same lid design. The lid includes an annular flange with engagement features that can interface with both tank fittings and riser sections, eliminating the need for different lid sizes and shapes for different openings.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single lid design is used for all openings, then manufacturing and inventory costs are reduced, but proper sealing of all opening types cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is designed with a universal configuration that allows it to seal multiple types of openings (tank top openings and riser openings of different diameters) using the same lid design. The lid includes an annular flange with engagement features that can interface with both tank fittings and riser sections, eliminating the need for different lid sizes and shapes for different openings.
4Ease of manufacture
If cylindrical riser sections are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but nesting for economic shipment and storage is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The riser sections are designed with a frusto-conical configuration where the diameter of one end is smaller than the other end. This allows smaller riser sections to be nested inside larger riser sections, enabling compact stacking for economical shipment and storage while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through rotational molding or similar processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A kit, and an assembly formed with components of the kit, comprises a fitting for the top of a septic tank or water tank, one or more frusto-conical rings shaped to interconnect with an identical ring to form an undulating wall riser that extends upwardly from the tank top fitting, and a lid. The lid is shaped for multi-purpose use: closing off the opening of either the large end or the small end of a ring/riser—whichever is uppermost, or closing off the fitting when there is no riser. Joints between the rings of the riser, and between a ring/riser and the fitting of a tank, are held together by latching tabs and/or screws. A fitting may be integral with a tank top.