CA2582187A1 - Adjustable manhole or utility access cover - Google Patents
Adjustable manhole or utility access cover Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2582187A1 CA2582187A1 CA 2582187 CA2582187A CA2582187A1 CA 2582187 A1 CA2582187 A1 CA 2582187A1 CA 2582187 CA2582187 CA 2582187 CA 2582187 A CA2582187 A CA 2582187A CA 2582187 A1 CA2582187 A1 CA 2582187A1
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- nut
- bolt
- manhole cover
- assembly
- roadway surface
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 13
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000037361 pathway Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000010426 asphalt Substances 0.000 abstract description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 abstract description 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000014509 gene expression Effects 0.000 description 2
- 241000282472 Canis lupus familiaris Species 0.000 description 1
- 238000004026 adhesive bonding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005219 brazing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003657 drainage water Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005476 soldering Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02D—FOUNDATIONS; EXCAVATIONS; EMBANKMENTS; UNDERGROUND OR UNDERWATER STRUCTURES
- E02D29/00—Independent underground or underwater structures; Retaining walls
- E02D29/12—Manhole shafts; Other inspection or access chambers; Accessories therefor
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
- Paleontology (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Underground Structures, Protecting, Testing And Restoring Foundations (AREA)
Abstract
An adjustable manhole or utility cover for covering a utility access opening on a roadway surface is provided. In particular, a device for adjusting the elevation of a manhole cover for flush mounting the manhole cover with the roadway surface is provided. The device can be used for reconstruction or new construction of a paved road where the asphalt is removed and replaced or laid down for the first time.
Description
ADJUSTABLE MANHOLE OR UTILITY ACCESS COVER
INVENTORS:
Gordon Mellott and Colin Regan.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is related to the field of adjustable manhole or utility access covers, in particular, manhole or utility access covers that are adjustable in elevation and camber.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
It is known to provide means for adjusting the orientation of a manhole or utility access cover with respect to a roadway surface in order to maintain a flush mount between the manhole and the roadway surface.
United States Patent No. 6,524,026 discloses a device that uses an extension ring with a plurality of tabs to select "steps" on the adapter ring to adjust the height of the manhole cover.
United States Patent No. 6,520,713 discloses an adapter ring and frame can have mating, angled edges that "rotatably" engage to adjust the angular orientation as the adaptor ring is rotated with respect to the frame.
The angular orientation of the cover can be adjusted by rotating the angled edges, or the adaptor ring and frame, with respect to one another.
United States Patent No. 6,196,760 discloses stacking a number of risers underneath the manhole for adjusting the height of the manhole. Each riser acts as a washer to elevate the height of the manhole with the roadway surface.
{E5292945.DOC;1 }
INVENTORS:
Gordon Mellott and Colin Regan.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is related to the field of adjustable manhole or utility access covers, in particular, manhole or utility access covers that are adjustable in elevation and camber.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
It is known to provide means for adjusting the orientation of a manhole or utility access cover with respect to a roadway surface in order to maintain a flush mount between the manhole and the roadway surface.
United States Patent No. 6,524,026 discloses a device that uses an extension ring with a plurality of tabs to select "steps" on the adapter ring to adjust the height of the manhole cover.
United States Patent No. 6,520,713 discloses an adapter ring and frame can have mating, angled edges that "rotatably" engage to adjust the angular orientation as the adaptor ring is rotated with respect to the frame.
The angular orientation of the cover can be adjusted by rotating the angled edges, or the adaptor ring and frame, with respect to one another.
United States Patent No. 6,196,760 discloses stacking a number of risers underneath the manhole for adjusting the height of the manhole. Each riser acts as a washer to elevate the height of the manhole with the roadway surface.
{E5292945.DOC;1 }
United States Patent No. 5,360,131 discloses the use of two rings with interchanging sloping castellated end surfaces where the rotation of one ring having a sloping surface relative to a second ring comprising the manhole to change the "pitch" or horizontal orientation of the manhole cover relative to the roadway surface.
United States Patent No. 4,906,128 discloses using elongated spaced shoulders extending longitudinally that are mated with externally extending projections or "dogs".
Each of the prior art references disclosed above describe an incremental method of changing the elevation of the manhole cover relative to the roadway surface. However, these references do not address the need to increase or decrease, in a continuous manner, the elevation of the manhole or utility access cover relative to the roadway surface.
It is, therefore, desirable to provide a manhole or utility access cover whose elevation or camber can be increased or decreased in a continuous manner.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An adjustable manhole or utility cover for covering a utility access opening on a roadway surface is provided. In particular, a device for adjusting the elevation of a manhole cover for flush mounting the manhole cover with the roadway is provided.
It is contemplated that in one embodiment, the manhole cover can be "wound down" during a paving operation of a roadway to speed up the paving process. Following the paving process, the adjustable manhole cover can {E5292945.DOC;1 }
United States Patent No. 4,906,128 discloses using elongated spaced shoulders extending longitudinally that are mated with externally extending projections or "dogs".
Each of the prior art references disclosed above describe an incremental method of changing the elevation of the manhole cover relative to the roadway surface. However, these references do not address the need to increase or decrease, in a continuous manner, the elevation of the manhole or utility access cover relative to the roadway surface.
It is, therefore, desirable to provide a manhole or utility access cover whose elevation or camber can be increased or decreased in a continuous manner.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An adjustable manhole or utility cover for covering a utility access opening on a roadway surface is provided. In particular, a device for adjusting the elevation of a manhole cover for flush mounting the manhole cover with the roadway is provided.
It is contemplated that in one embodiment, the manhole cover can be "wound down" during a paving operation of a roadway to speed up the paving process. Following the paving process, the adjustable manhole cover can {E5292945.DOC;1 }
then be raised or "wound up" flush to the new existing asphalt surface. In another embodiment, the adjustable manhole cover can be used to accommodate any sloped surface making the finished roadway surface flush and smooth with the manhole cover. In this embodiment, the manhole cover can be adjustable for future applications should the roadway sink or settle.
In one embodiment, an adjustable manhole cover assembly or utility access cover is provided for covering a utility access opening in a roadway surface which is comprised of a means for adjusting the elevation of the manhole cover with the roadway surface.
In another embodiment, an adjustable manhole cover assembly or utility access cover is provided for covering a utility access opening in a roadway surface which is comprised of a means for adjusting both the elevation and the camber of the manhole cover with the roadway surface.
In another embodiment, the adjustable manhole cover assembly can comprise of the following key components: a stationary flanged male section (the "bolt") that is secured below an existing roadway surface; and an adjustable nut section (the "nut") threaded with the bolt comprising a hollow conduit for communicating water between the roadway surface and the utility access compartment, the nut having a removable manhole cover for covering the entry way into the utility access compartment wherein the nut comprising the manhole cover is biased above or below the roadway surface by rotating the nut with respect to the bolt.
In yet another embodiment, the bolt can be flanged and secured below the roadway surface whereas nut can comprise the manhole cover and be {E5292945. DOC;1 }
In one embodiment, an adjustable manhole cover assembly or utility access cover is provided for covering a utility access opening in a roadway surface which is comprised of a means for adjusting the elevation of the manhole cover with the roadway surface.
In another embodiment, an adjustable manhole cover assembly or utility access cover is provided for covering a utility access opening in a roadway surface which is comprised of a means for adjusting both the elevation and the camber of the manhole cover with the roadway surface.
In another embodiment, the adjustable manhole cover assembly can comprise of the following key components: a stationary flanged male section (the "bolt") that is secured below an existing roadway surface; and an adjustable nut section (the "nut") threaded with the bolt comprising a hollow conduit for communicating water between the roadway surface and the utility access compartment, the nut having a removable manhole cover for covering the entry way into the utility access compartment wherein the nut comprising the manhole cover is biased above or below the roadway surface by rotating the nut with respect to the bolt.
In yet another embodiment, the bolt can be flanged and secured below the roadway surface whereas nut can comprise the manhole cover and be {E5292945. DOC;1 }
adjustable and threaded with the bolt. In a further embodiment, camber adjusting means can be used with the manhole cover assembly to accommodate any sloped surface so as to make the manhole cover flush and smooth with the finished roadway surface.
Broadly stated, an adjustable manhole cover assembly is provided for covering an opening in a roadway surface leading to a utility access compartment, comprising: a stationary flanged bolt configured for being anchored below said roadway surface, said bolt comprising an inner wall and an outer wall, said inner wall defining a conduit for providing communication between said roadway surface and said utility access compartment whereby water can drain from said roadway surface into said utility access compartment, said outer wall comprising a male threaded portion thereon;
and a female threaded nut configured to mate with said outer wall of said bolt in a threaded relationship wherein said nut and said bolt remain in a contiguous relationship when mated together whereby said nut can be biased above, below or flush with said roadway surface by rotating said nut with respect to said bolt, said nut further comprising a manhole cover portion for covering said conduit, said manhole cover portion further comprising at least one aperture extending therethrough whereby water can drain from said roadway surface through said at least one aperture into said conduit.
Broadly stated, an adjustable manhole cover assembly is provided for covering an opening in a roadway surface leading to a utiiity access compartment, comprising: a stationary flanged bolt configured for being anchored below said roadway surface, said bolt comprising an inner wall and {E5292945.DOC;1 }
an outer wall, said inner wall defining a conduit having a longitudinal axis, said conduit providing communication between said roadway surface and said utility access compartment whereby water can drain from said roadway surface into said utility access compartment, said outer wall comprising a 5 male threaded portion thereon; a female threaded nut configured to mate with said outer wall of said bolt in a threaded relationship wherein said nut and said bolt remain in a contiguous relationship when mated together whereby said nut can be biased above, below or flush with said roadway surface by rotating said nut with respect to said bolt, said nut further comprising a manhole cover portion for covering said conduit, said manhole cover portion further comprising at least one aperture extending therethrough whereby water can drain from said roadway surface through said at least one aperture into said conduit; and camber adjusting means for adjusting the camber of said manhole cover portion in relation to said roadway surface.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is an exploded cross-sectional side view depicting a first embodiment of an adjustable manhole or utility access cover assembly.
Figure 1A is a side cross-sectional view depicting one thread on the bolt of the adjustable manhole or utility access cover assembly of Figure 1.
Figure 2 is a side cross-sectional view depicting the adjustable manhole or utility access cover assembly of Figure 1 where the manhole cover is wound up into the "open position" to maintain a flush mount relationship between the roadway surface and the manhole cover.
{E5292945.DOC;1}
Broadly stated, an adjustable manhole cover assembly is provided for covering an opening in a roadway surface leading to a utility access compartment, comprising: a stationary flanged bolt configured for being anchored below said roadway surface, said bolt comprising an inner wall and an outer wall, said inner wall defining a conduit for providing communication between said roadway surface and said utility access compartment whereby water can drain from said roadway surface into said utility access compartment, said outer wall comprising a male threaded portion thereon;
and a female threaded nut configured to mate with said outer wall of said bolt in a threaded relationship wherein said nut and said bolt remain in a contiguous relationship when mated together whereby said nut can be biased above, below or flush with said roadway surface by rotating said nut with respect to said bolt, said nut further comprising a manhole cover portion for covering said conduit, said manhole cover portion further comprising at least one aperture extending therethrough whereby water can drain from said roadway surface through said at least one aperture into said conduit.
Broadly stated, an adjustable manhole cover assembly is provided for covering an opening in a roadway surface leading to a utiiity access compartment, comprising: a stationary flanged bolt configured for being anchored below said roadway surface, said bolt comprising an inner wall and {E5292945.DOC;1 }
an outer wall, said inner wall defining a conduit having a longitudinal axis, said conduit providing communication between said roadway surface and said utility access compartment whereby water can drain from said roadway surface into said utility access compartment, said outer wall comprising a 5 male threaded portion thereon; a female threaded nut configured to mate with said outer wall of said bolt in a threaded relationship wherein said nut and said bolt remain in a contiguous relationship when mated together whereby said nut can be biased above, below or flush with said roadway surface by rotating said nut with respect to said bolt, said nut further comprising a manhole cover portion for covering said conduit, said manhole cover portion further comprising at least one aperture extending therethrough whereby water can drain from said roadway surface through said at least one aperture into said conduit; and camber adjusting means for adjusting the camber of said manhole cover portion in relation to said roadway surface.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is an exploded cross-sectional side view depicting a first embodiment of an adjustable manhole or utility access cover assembly.
Figure 1A is a side cross-sectional view depicting one thread on the bolt of the adjustable manhole or utility access cover assembly of Figure 1.
Figure 2 is a side cross-sectional view depicting the adjustable manhole or utility access cover assembly of Figure 1 where the manhole cover is wound up into the "open position" to maintain a flush mount relationship between the roadway surface and the manhole cover.
{E5292945.DOC;1}
Figure 3 is a side cross-sectional view depicting the adjustable manhole or utility access cover assembly of Figure 1 where the manhole cover is wound down into a "closed position".
Figure 4 is a side elevational view depicting the adjustable manhole or utility access cover assembly of Figure 3 with the nut and utility access cover removed.
Figure 5 is a side elevational view depicting an adjustable manhole or utility access cover assembly with a camber adjusting wedge installed.
Figure 6 is a side elevational view depicting a rotational tool for use with the adjustable manhole cover assembly of Figure 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
For the purposes of this specification, the following terms shall be interpreted using the following definitions.
The term "rotational axis" is defined as the longitudinal axis around which nut rotates around bolt. The term "rotational axis" is distinguishable from the term "lateral axis" which makes reference to a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.
The term "camber" is defined as the angle between the rotational axis and a reference vertical axis measured at zero degrees. The top of the rotational axis tilts inward relative to the reference line when the camber is a negative value and outward relative to the reference line when the camber is a positive value.
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Figure 4 is a side elevational view depicting the adjustable manhole or utility access cover assembly of Figure 3 with the nut and utility access cover removed.
Figure 5 is a side elevational view depicting an adjustable manhole or utility access cover assembly with a camber adjusting wedge installed.
Figure 6 is a side elevational view depicting a rotational tool for use with the adjustable manhole cover assembly of Figure 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
For the purposes of this specification, the following terms shall be interpreted using the following definitions.
The term "rotational axis" is defined as the longitudinal axis around which nut rotates around bolt. The term "rotational axis" is distinguishable from the term "lateral axis" which makes reference to a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.
The term "camber" is defined as the angle between the rotational axis and a reference vertical axis measured at zero degrees. The top of the rotational axis tilts inward relative to the reference line when the camber is a negative value and outward relative to the reference line when the camber is a positive value.
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The term "bolt" is defined as a headed fastener having external threads that meet an exacting, uniform bolt thread specification (such as M, MJ, UN, UNR, and UNJ) such that they can accept a non-tapered nut.
The term "pitch" for a thread on a bolt is defined as the interval (distance) between adjoining threads. For example, nut and bolt configuration of the present invention will be assumed to have the same pitch and diameter so that they can function together.
Referring to Figure 1, an exploded (and cross-sectional) view of manhole cover assembly 1 is shown. Manhole cover assembly 1, in a general aspect, can comprise of bolt 8 secured to anchor 2 where anchor 2 is mounted below a roadway surface (not shown). Bolt 8 can mate with nut 20 in a threaded relationship in the same fashion that a conventional nut can be threaded with a conventional bolt.
In one embodiment, bolt 8 can comprise an inner wall 4 and an outer wall 3. Inner wall 4 acts as a conduit for providing an opening through bolt 8 and a pathway for water from the roadway surface into utility access compartment 7.
In another embodiment, bolt 8 can further comprise flange 5 for securing bolt 8 to anchor 2 below the roadway surface. In a representative embodiment, flange 5 is secured to anchor 2 by a pair of diagonally opposed anchor bolts 6. In another embodiment, flange 5 can be secured to anchor 2 using nails, rivets, roll pins, pinned shafts, welding, soldering, brazing, gluing or by any other suitable means as known to those skilled in the art.
{E5292945.DOC;1 }
The term "pitch" for a thread on a bolt is defined as the interval (distance) between adjoining threads. For example, nut and bolt configuration of the present invention will be assumed to have the same pitch and diameter so that they can function together.
Referring to Figure 1, an exploded (and cross-sectional) view of manhole cover assembly 1 is shown. Manhole cover assembly 1, in a general aspect, can comprise of bolt 8 secured to anchor 2 where anchor 2 is mounted below a roadway surface (not shown). Bolt 8 can mate with nut 20 in a threaded relationship in the same fashion that a conventional nut can be threaded with a conventional bolt.
In one embodiment, bolt 8 can comprise an inner wall 4 and an outer wall 3. Inner wall 4 acts as a conduit for providing an opening through bolt 8 and a pathway for water from the roadway surface into utility access compartment 7.
In another embodiment, bolt 8 can further comprise flange 5 for securing bolt 8 to anchor 2 below the roadway surface. In a representative embodiment, flange 5 is secured to anchor 2 by a pair of diagonally opposed anchor bolts 6. In another embodiment, flange 5 can be secured to anchor 2 using nails, rivets, roll pins, pinned shafts, welding, soldering, brazing, gluing or by any other suitable means as known to those skilled in the art.
{E5292945.DOC;1 }
In one embodiment, outer wall 3 can be cylindrical in shape to allow for the threaded fastener comprising nut 20 to rotate in a threaded relationship with bolt 8. Accordingly, bolt 8 can comprise a plurality of bolt threads 10 on outer wall 3. Having reference to Figure 1, one embodiment of nut 20 is shown. Nut 20 can comprise of internal male threads 19 that can mate in a threaded relationship with external female bolt threads 21 of bolt 8. Each pair of bolt threads 10 are distributed by pitch 9, in accordance with uniform bolt thread specifications as defined and known by those skilled in the art. As nut 20 can carry the weight of manhole cover 30, manhole cover assembly 1 can use of any type of uniform bolt thread specification that allows for the desired bolt thread tolerance required to rotate nut 20 relative to bolt 8 and carry the weight of manhole cover 30.
In one embodiment, threads 10 can comprise trapezoidal-shaped threads 21 as shown in Figure 1A. In another embodiment, threads 21 can be square-shaped, triangular-shaped or rounded. It should be obvious to those skilled in the art that the actual shape of the threads is not essential so long as male nut threads 19 can mate with female bolt threads 21 to allow nut 20 to rotate relative to bolt 8. In another embodiment, nut 20 can further comprise of an upper circumferential wall that can accept a pair of opposed locking key inserts 25.
In one embodiment, manhole cover 30 can comprise of disk portion 40 having a thickness that is capable of withstanding the weight of a motor vehicle driving over manhole cover 30. In another embodiment, manhole {E5292945.DOC;1 }
In one embodiment, threads 10 can comprise trapezoidal-shaped threads 21 as shown in Figure 1A. In another embodiment, threads 21 can be square-shaped, triangular-shaped or rounded. It should be obvious to those skilled in the art that the actual shape of the threads is not essential so long as male nut threads 19 can mate with female bolt threads 21 to allow nut 20 to rotate relative to bolt 8. In another embodiment, nut 20 can further comprise of an upper circumferential wall that can accept a pair of opposed locking key inserts 25.
In one embodiment, manhole cover 30 can comprise of disk portion 40 having a thickness that is capable of withstanding the weight of a motor vehicle driving over manhole cover 30. In another embodiment, manhole {E5292945.DOC;1 }
cover 30 can further comprise drainage opening 39 that allows drainage water accumulating on top of manhole cover 30 to pass through the cover.
Referring to Figure 2, manhole cover assembly I is shown in the "open position" when nut 20 is wound up in elevation to make manhole cover 30 flush with roadway surface 38.
Referring to Figure 3, manhole cover assembly 1 is shown wound down in elevation and with temporary construction manhole cover assembly 32 installed, which is similar in dimensions to manhole cover 30 as shown in Figure 1. In one embodiment, temporary cover 32 can be paved over with disrupting access to nut 20. In another embodiment, temporary cover 32 can be removed so that nut 20 can be accessed and rotated relative to bolt 8 to wind nut 20 up in elevation to make manhole cover 30 flush with roadway surface 38. Referring to Figure 4, bolt 8 is shown with nut 20 removed.
In one embodiment, bolt 8 is orthogonal relative to anchor 2, which is generally horizontal and parallel with the roadway surface. However, it may be suitable in situations where anchor 2 is not parallel with the roadway surface to adjust bolt 8 so that it is parallel with the roadway surface.
Accordingly, camber adjusting means can be provided to maintain a parallel relationship between manhole cover 30 and the roadway surface. Referring to Figure 5, bolt 8 is shown in a canted relationship with anchor 2. In one embodiment, the camber adjusting means can be wedge 60 installed between anchor 2 and flange 5 of bolt 8. Wedge 60 can have any suitable shape and can generally correspond to the shape of flange 5 although it is not essential.
It should also be obvious to those skilled in the art that wedge 60 comprises {E5292945.DOC;1 }
an opening extending therethrough that generally corresponds to the opening within bolt 8, as defined by inner wall 4, to maintain the pathway for water from the roadway surface into utility access compartment 7, as shown in Figure 1, when wedge 60 is used. In another embodiment, manhole cover 5 assembly 1 can comprise any suitable means for adjusting bolt 8 and nut 20 in such a way that the combination of these two components remains parallel with the roadway surface.
Referring to Figure 6, rotation tool 140 is shown. Rotation tool 140 is used for rotating nut 20. In one embodiment, rotation tool 140 can include 10 main stem 142 for applying to disk portion 41. In another embodiment, a plurality of lugs 143 extends downwardly from disk portion 41 about its perimeter. In the illustrated embodiment, disk portion 41 can be generally circular to match the shape of nut 20 and comprise four lugs 143 positioned about the perimeter of disk portion 41, spaced approximately 90 apart. In one embodiment, rotation tool 140 can releasably attach to nut 20 where each lug 143 can be inserted into keys 25 of nut 20. Applying torque to stem 142 causes nut 20 to rotate in relation to bolt 8. It should be obvious to those skilled in the art, however, that disk portion 41 does not have to be circular and can have any shape so long as lugs 143 are positioned so as to align with keys 25 of nut 20.
Although a few illustrative embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications might be made without departing from the scope of the invention. The terms and expressions used in the preceding {E5292945. DOC;1 }
Referring to Figure 2, manhole cover assembly I is shown in the "open position" when nut 20 is wound up in elevation to make manhole cover 30 flush with roadway surface 38.
Referring to Figure 3, manhole cover assembly 1 is shown wound down in elevation and with temporary construction manhole cover assembly 32 installed, which is similar in dimensions to manhole cover 30 as shown in Figure 1. In one embodiment, temporary cover 32 can be paved over with disrupting access to nut 20. In another embodiment, temporary cover 32 can be removed so that nut 20 can be accessed and rotated relative to bolt 8 to wind nut 20 up in elevation to make manhole cover 30 flush with roadway surface 38. Referring to Figure 4, bolt 8 is shown with nut 20 removed.
In one embodiment, bolt 8 is orthogonal relative to anchor 2, which is generally horizontal and parallel with the roadway surface. However, it may be suitable in situations where anchor 2 is not parallel with the roadway surface to adjust bolt 8 so that it is parallel with the roadway surface.
Accordingly, camber adjusting means can be provided to maintain a parallel relationship between manhole cover 30 and the roadway surface. Referring to Figure 5, bolt 8 is shown in a canted relationship with anchor 2. In one embodiment, the camber adjusting means can be wedge 60 installed between anchor 2 and flange 5 of bolt 8. Wedge 60 can have any suitable shape and can generally correspond to the shape of flange 5 although it is not essential.
It should also be obvious to those skilled in the art that wedge 60 comprises {E5292945.DOC;1 }
an opening extending therethrough that generally corresponds to the opening within bolt 8, as defined by inner wall 4, to maintain the pathway for water from the roadway surface into utility access compartment 7, as shown in Figure 1, when wedge 60 is used. In another embodiment, manhole cover 5 assembly 1 can comprise any suitable means for adjusting bolt 8 and nut 20 in such a way that the combination of these two components remains parallel with the roadway surface.
Referring to Figure 6, rotation tool 140 is shown. Rotation tool 140 is used for rotating nut 20. In one embodiment, rotation tool 140 can include 10 main stem 142 for applying to disk portion 41. In another embodiment, a plurality of lugs 143 extends downwardly from disk portion 41 about its perimeter. In the illustrated embodiment, disk portion 41 can be generally circular to match the shape of nut 20 and comprise four lugs 143 positioned about the perimeter of disk portion 41, spaced approximately 90 apart. In one embodiment, rotation tool 140 can releasably attach to nut 20 where each lug 143 can be inserted into keys 25 of nut 20. Applying torque to stem 142 causes nut 20 to rotate in relation to bolt 8. It should be obvious to those skilled in the art, however, that disk portion 41 does not have to be circular and can have any shape so long as lugs 143 are positioned so as to align with keys 25 of nut 20.
Although a few illustrative embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications might be made without departing from the scope of the invention. The terms and expressions used in the preceding {E5292945. DOC;1 }
specification have been used herein as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention in the use of such terms and expressions of excluding equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, it being recognized that the scope of the invention is defined and limited only by the claims that follow.
{E5292945.DOC;1 }
{E5292945.DOC;1 }
Claims (15)
1. An adjustable manhole cover assembly for covering an opening in a roadway surface leading to a utility access compartment, comprising:
a) a stationary flanged bolt configured for being anchored below said roadway surface, said bolt comprising an inner wall and an outer wall, said inner wall defining a conduit for providing communication between said roadway surface and said utility access compartment whereby water can drain from said roadway surface into said utility access compartment, said outer wall comprising a male threaded portion thereon; and b) a female threaded nut configured to mate with said outer wall of said bolt in a threaded relationship wherein said nut and said bolt remain in a contiguous relationship when mated together whereby said nut can be biased above, below or flush with said roadway surface by rotating said nut with respect to said bolt, said nut further comprising a manhole cover portion for covering said conduit, said manhole cover portion further comprising at least one aperture extending therethrough whereby water can drain from said roadway surface through said at least one aperture into said conduit.
a) a stationary flanged bolt configured for being anchored below said roadway surface, said bolt comprising an inner wall and an outer wall, said inner wall defining a conduit for providing communication between said roadway surface and said utility access compartment whereby water can drain from said roadway surface into said utility access compartment, said outer wall comprising a male threaded portion thereon; and b) a female threaded nut configured to mate with said outer wall of said bolt in a threaded relationship wherein said nut and said bolt remain in a contiguous relationship when mated together whereby said nut can be biased above, below or flush with said roadway surface by rotating said nut with respect to said bolt, said nut further comprising a manhole cover portion for covering said conduit, said manhole cover portion further comprising at least one aperture extending therethrough whereby water can drain from said roadway surface through said at least one aperture into said conduit.
2. The assembly of claim 1 wherein said nut further comprises means for rotating said nut relative to said bolt.
3. The assembly of claim 1 wherein said nut further comprises a male seat for carrying the manhole cover portion on said nut.
4. The assembly of claim 1 wherein said manhole cover portion further comprises a drainage assembly.
5. The assembly of claim 4 wherein said drainage assembly is a passageway that provides a pathway for water draining from the outer surface of said manhole cover portion into said conduit.
6. The assembly of claim 2 wherein said means for rotating said nut comprises a key that releasably mates with a rotation tool for rotating said nut relative to said bolt.
7. An adjustable manhole cover assembly for covering an opening in a roadway surface leading to a utility access compartment, comprising:
a) a stationary flanged bolt configured for being anchored below said roadway surface, said bolt comprising an inner wall and an outer wall, said inner wall defining a conduit having a longitudinal axis, said conduit providing communication between said roadway surface and said utility access compartment whereby water can drain from said roadway surface into said utility access compartment, said outer wall comprising a male threaded portion thereon;
b) a female threaded nut configured to mate with said outer wall of said bolt in a threaded relationship wherein said nut and said bolt remain in a contiguous relationship when mated together whereby said nut can be biased above, below or flush with said roadway surface by rotating said nut with respect to said bolt, said nut further comprising a manhole cover portion for covering said conduit, said manhole cover portion further comprising at least one aperture extending therethrough whereby water can drain from said roadway surface through said at least one aperture into said conduit; and c) camber adjusting means for adjusting the camber of said manhole cover portion in relation to said roadway surface.
a) a stationary flanged bolt configured for being anchored below said roadway surface, said bolt comprising an inner wall and an outer wall, said inner wall defining a conduit having a longitudinal axis, said conduit providing communication between said roadway surface and said utility access compartment whereby water can drain from said roadway surface into said utility access compartment, said outer wall comprising a male threaded portion thereon;
b) a female threaded nut configured to mate with said outer wall of said bolt in a threaded relationship wherein said nut and said bolt remain in a contiguous relationship when mated together whereby said nut can be biased above, below or flush with said roadway surface by rotating said nut with respect to said bolt, said nut further comprising a manhole cover portion for covering said conduit, said manhole cover portion further comprising at least one aperture extending therethrough whereby water can drain from said roadway surface through said at least one aperture into said conduit; and c) camber adjusting means for adjusting the camber of said manhole cover portion in relation to said roadway surface.
8. The assembly of claim 7 wherein said camber adjusting means comprises a wedge disposed underneath said bolt for tilting the longitudinal axis of said conduit thereby adjusting the camber of said manhole cover portion.
9. The assembly of claim 8 wherein the camber of said manhole cover portion is adjusted to zero degrees.
10. The assembly of claim 8 wherein the camber of said manhole cover portion is adjusted to a negative or a positive value that is not equal to zero degrees.
11. The assembly of claim 7 wherein said nut further comprises means for rotating said nut relative to said bolt.
12. The assembly of claim 7 wherein said further comprises a male seat for carrying said manhole cover portion on said nut.
13. The assembly of claim 7 wherein said manhole cover portion further comprises a drainage assembly.
14. The assembly of claim 13 wherein said drainage assembly is a passageway that provides a pathway for water draining from the outer surface of said manhole cover portion into said conduit.
15 15. The assembly of claim 11 wherein said means for rotating said nut comprises a rotation tool that comprises a pair of diagonally opposed male keys that releasably mate with a pair of diagonally opposed keys on said nut.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2582187 CA2582187A1 (en) | 2007-03-16 | 2007-03-16 | Adjustable manhole or utility access cover |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2582187 CA2582187A1 (en) | 2007-03-16 | 2007-03-16 | Adjustable manhole or utility access cover |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2582187A1 true CA2582187A1 (en) | 2008-09-16 |
Family
ID=39764604
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2582187 Abandoned CA2582187A1 (en) | 2007-03-16 | 2007-03-16 | Adjustable manhole or utility access cover |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2582187A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2015036963A1 (en) | 2013-09-16 | 2015-03-19 | Bnk Ingenuity Bvba | Installation means and method for installing and adjusting a cover of an inspection manhole |
| CN110552417A (en) * | 2019-09-16 | 2019-12-10 | 上海应用技术大学 | Drainage-assisting well lid assembly |
-
2007
- 2007-03-16 CA CA 2582187 patent/CA2582187A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2015036963A1 (en) | 2013-09-16 | 2015-03-19 | Bnk Ingenuity Bvba | Installation means and method for installing and adjusting a cover of an inspection manhole |
| CN110552417A (en) * | 2019-09-16 | 2019-12-10 | 上海应用技术大学 | Drainage-assisting well lid assembly |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| FZDE | Dead |