GB2574070A - Manhole device - Google Patents

Abstract

A manhole device 201 and corresponding system including a manhole 101 is described. A manhole device 201 having a main body 202 with an upper portion 203, a lower portion 204 and a securing means 205. The securing means 205 is engageable with a manhole 101 to result in the upper portion 203 protruding above a surface level (103, Figure 1) and the lower portion 204 being retained below the surface level in (103, Figure 1) of the manhole 101. The main body provides alignment means (111, Figure 5) for construction around the manhole 101 while providing a barrier to prevent access to the manhole 101 (vehicles, people and debris) during construction. The main body 202 preferably provides an outer wall (206, Figure 3) defining an internal space (301, Figure 3) and may also provide a slot (209,210 Figure 8) for receiving a grating device (801, Figure 8). A manhole system comprising a manhole 101 and manhole device 201 and a method of construction are also provided.

Description

Manhole Device

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application represents the first application for a patent directed towards the invention and the subject matter.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a manhole device, a manhole system comprising a manhole device and a method of constructing a manhole.

Manholes are well known in the art as providing an opening from a surface level into underground vaults which comprise sewers, pipelines or other utilities or structures. Manholes are referred to throughout this specification as including the opening of the hole which provides access, and a shaft which leads down to the underground vault. Manholes are also alternatively known as inspection chambers, utility holes, cable chambers, maintenance holes, access chambers or sewer holes.

During construction works to build new roads or surfaces for example, manholes are often partially completed while the last stages of road construction are finalised. At this stage of construction, the manhole opening presents an open hole into which construction vehicles or operatives can accidentally fall into. Aside from this health and safety issue, debris is also able to fall through the hole or the partially complete manhole itself can be damaged from impact from vehicles.

In order to prevent this problem, devices have been proposed to cover the exposed manhole in use. However, such prior art devices are generally placed on top of the hole and can easily be knocked out of position thereby allowing the problem to reoccur.

A further problem exists during the construction of manholes in that these devices also need to be removed when final construction of the manhole is completed.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a manhole device, comprising: a main body comprising an upper portion, a lower portion and a securing means; wherein said securing means is engageable with a manhole such that, when secured to a manhole, said upper portion protrudes above a surface level and said lower portion is retained below a surface level in the manhole; and said main body is configured to provide alignment means for construction around a manhole and further provides a barrier so as to prevent access to a manhole during construction.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a manhole system comprising a manhole and a manhole device, said manhole device comprising: a main body comprising an upper portion and a lower portion, said main body being positioned in said manhole; wherein said upper portion protrudes above a surface level, and said lower portion includes a securing means configured to retain said lower portion below said surface level and in said manhole; and further wherein said main body provides alignment means for construction around a manhole and further provides a barrier so as to prevent access to a manhole during construction.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of constructing a manhole, comprising the steps of: obtaining a manhole device having a main body comprising an upper portion, a lower portion and a securing means; positioning said manhole device in a manhole such that said upper portion protrudes above a surface level and said lower portion is retained below a surface level in the manhole; engaging said securing means with said manhole to secure said manhole device in position; providing an alignment means for construction around said manhole by means of said main body; and preventing access to said manhole during construction by providing a barrier by means of said main body.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:

Figure 1 shows a typical manhole arrangement;

Figure 2 shows a manhole device in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 3 shows an alternative perspective view of the manhole device of Figure 2;

Figure 4 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the manhole device in a manhole;

Figure 5 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the manhole device in a manhole providing a alignment means for construction of the manhole;

Figure 6 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the manhole device in a manhole providing a liner following construction of the manhole;

Figure 7 shows a perspective view of the manhole device in isolation having had a part of an upper portion removed; and

Figure 8 shows the manhole device in diagrammatic form in use with a suitable grating device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Figure 1

A typical manhole arrangement in accordance with known structures is shown with respect to Figure 1. Manhole 101 provides an opening 102 from surface level 103 into an underground vault 104. In this illustrated example, underground vault 104 comprises a pipeline 105 which is fitted inside a concrete base 106 underneath surface level 103. It is appreciated that manhole arrangements of this type may include alternatives to pipelines, for example other utilities and structures including cabling or wiring.

Manhole 101 typically comprises a plurality of manhole rings 107 which are stacked to a desired height such that surface level 103 is defined in line with any landscaping requirements. Manhole rings typically comprise large hollow cylindrical concrete structures which are stackable to create the manhole shaft 108. While the example illustrates three manhole rings, any number of manhole rings may be used to achieve a suitable surface height 109.

Manhole 101 further includes an access ladder 110 such that authorised operatives are permitted to access underground vault 104 through opening 102. In order to define opening 102, a plurality of seating rings, such as seating ring 111, are positioned around opening 102. Each seating ring comprises a concrete plate having a central hole which is dimensioned in line with the requirements for opening 102. In alternative embodiments, instead of seating rings, opening 102 is defined by an alternative solution, such as a plurality of bricks and concrete or other solid structure. Once, constructed, opening 102 is covered by a conventional manhole cover, however, this is not the case during construction works.

As indicated previously, during construction works, such as in the construction of a road surface, opening 102 is left open such that debris, vehicles or people could potentially fall in. Not only does this present a safety hazard, but it is also difficult to remove any debris once the manhole system has been completed.

Figure 2

A manhole device 201 in accordance with the present invention is shown in isolation in a perspective view in Figure 2. Manhole device 201 comprises a main body 202 having an upper portion 203 and a lower portion 204. Main body 202 further comprises a securing means 205.

Main body 202 comprises an outer wall 206, which, in this embodiment, comprises four side walls 207. In the embodiment, manhole device is substantially square or cuboid in shape; however, it is appreciated that in an alternative embodiment, as required by the manhole structure in question, the manhole device may be cylindrical in shape and comprises a single outer wall having substantially similar features.

In the embodiment, outer wall 206 comprises a ribbed outer surface which includes a plurality of ribs. Manhole device 201 may comprise a durable plastic material with a degree of flexibility therein. The plastic material may be any suitable material for the purpose, and, in an embodiment, comprises polyethylene. The plurality of ribs improves the rigidity of manhole device 201 which assists in maintaining the device’s shape and structure in use.

In the embodiment, outer wall 206 further comprises at least one slot, such as slots 209 and 210 which are configured to receive a grating device as will be described further with reference to Figure 8. In the embodiment, each side wall207 includes two slots, however, it is appreciated that, any number of slots may be provided so as to provide appropriate securing points for a suitable grating device.

Main body 202 further comprises a top surface 211 which extends from an edge 212 of outer wall 206. Top surface 211 comprises a ventilation hole 213 which allows for ventilation in use. Top surface 211 further comprises a cavity 214 which extends below edge 212 to define a bowl. In use, cavity 214 can be used to support weighted material or a visual indicator. The shape of cavity 214 may also be configured to channel rainwater or similar from cavity 214 and into ventilation hole 213. In an embodiment, a suitable cap is provided to block or cover ventilation hole 213 as necessary. In an alternative embodiment, a plurality of ventilation holes are present in the top surface and it is appreciated that any number of holes may be present as required.

Securing means 205 comprises a tab 215 at an interface 216 between upper portion 203 and lower portion 204. Securing means 205 further comprises a tapered wedge 217 which, in use, is configured to interfere with an inner surface of a manhole as will be described further with respect to

Figure 4.

In an embodiment, upper portion 203 of manhole device 201 comprises a visual indicator to improve visibility of the upper portion. In particular, this visual indicator may comprise a fluorescent colour, hazard 5 warning stripes, a reflective paint or material or similar. In one embodiment, manhole device 201 is painted in an appropriate visible or reflective colour so as to provide the increased visibility.

Figure 3

An alternative perspective view of manhole device 201 is shown in 10 Figure 3. In this illustrated view, manhole device 201 is shown in a reverse orientation to that of Figure 2, such that the bottom of manhole device 201 is visible.

Manhole device 201 again shows main body 202 having upper portion 203, lower portion 204 and outer wall 206. Outer wall 206 defines an internal 15 space 301. Thus, it can be seen in this alternative view that manhole device 201 is hollow. In this way, top surface 211 as previously described prevents access into internal space 301 when manhole device 201 is positioned in the orientation of Figure 2.

In the orientation of Figure 3, however, internal space 301 can be 20 accessed via an open end 302 in lower portion 204.

In the embodiment, ribbed outer surface 208 provides a corresponding ribbed inner surface 303. Main body 202 however, further comprises a smooth internal surface 304 so as to prevent snagging of people and/or equipment in use. Thus, ribbed inner surface 303 typically 25 includes rounded edges so as to prevent any sharp edges which could get caught on people and/or equipment.

Figure 4

Manhole device 201 is shown in Figure 4 positioned in manhole 101 in a partial cross-sectional view. When in situ in manhole 101, upper portion 203 protrudes above a surface level 401 defined, in this embodiment, by a cover slab 402. In contrast, lower portion 204 is retained below surface level 401 and inside opening 102 of manhole 101 by securing means 205.

As previously explained, securing means 205 comprises a tab 215 and a tapered wedge 217 and is engageable with manhole 101 such that, when secured to the manhole 101, upper portion 203 protrudes above the surface level and the lower portion is retained below the surface level.

In use, tab 215 rests upon the surface level 401 of cover slab 402 so as to retain upper portion 203 above surface level 401. Thus, tab 215 prevents manhole device 201, and in particular upper portion 203, from entering opening 102. Tapered wedge 217 additionally provides securement by interfering with an inner surface 403 of opening 102 of manhole 101. Tapered wedge 217 comprises a resiliently flexible material which is biased outwards from manhole device 201 so as to interfere and grip with inner surface 403 to hold manhole device 203 in position. Thus, should a person or vehicle knock or disturb manhole device 201, tapered wedge 217 assists in maintaining manhole device 201 within manhole 101.

Thus, in this way, the manhole device 201 does not require additional fastenings such as bolts or screws to be utilised.

In the embodiment, top surface 211 prevents access into the internal space 301 of manhole device 201 as well as preventing access into opening 102 of manhole 101 and manhole shaft 108. Thus, in this orientation, debris, vehicles or people cannot gain access into manhole shaft 108 without removal of manhole device 201.

Figure 5

Once positioned in the manhole opening 102, manhole device 201 protects debris, people or vehicles from accessing manhole 101. While in position, manhole device 201 further provides a guide or alignment means for construction of the manhole 101 as will be illustrated with respect to Figure 5.

In the construction of manhole 101, a plurality of seating rings, such as seating ring 111, are conventionally positioned around opening 102 to provide extension of manhole 101 up to a surface level. Seating rings typically comprise a concrete plate with a central hole and are stacked vertically to extend the height of the hole. While seating rings are sized to provide an opening of a required diameter or dimension, alignment of the seating rings are required so as to meet industry requirements in terms of providing appropriate access into manhole 101. For example, the centre hole of the seating rings is dimensioned to provide sufficient room for an operative to enter the manhole in use including the equipment they would typically carry and sufficient space to allow them to reach the access ladder 110. The Sewers for Adoption guidance in the United Kingdom requires a minimum aperture of six hundred millimetres (600mm) for this purpose, and thus the seating rings centre hole is dimensioned accordingly. Furthermore, the Sewers for Adoption guidance also requires a maximum distance of six hundred and seventy five millimetres (675mm) between the final surface level and the top step of ladders 110 so that the ladders can be adequately reached in use.

When in situ, main body 202 of manhole device 201 is configured to provide alignment means for construction around manhole 101 while also providing a barrier which prevents access during the construction process. Thus, manhole device 201 is dimensioned to firstly maintain the size of the opening 102 at an appropriate diameter, but also provides an alignment of seating rings 111 so that they are consistently positioned and aligned around manhole device 201 and ensuring that construction operatives maintain the legislative guidance dimensions during construction. At the same time, manhole device 201 provides a barrier to debris, vehicles and/or people into the manhole and stops any such items falling into the manhole while construction is taking place.

Furthermore, manhole device 201 is configured to be such a height to give an indication to construction operatives as to where the final surface level should reach. In this way, it can be ensured that the minimum distance to the ladders 110 can be maintained so that requirements are met Thus, the manhole device 201 provides an indication of the maximum required height of a final surface by means of the protruding upper portion 203. In an alternative embodiment, this process may be assisted by additional markings or wording illustrated on the side of manhole device 201.

Thus, manhole device 201 not only provides an alignment means for the seating rings, but also provides a height guide in terms of final surface level. As noted previously, while the embodiment illustrates seating rings to be used for construction of the manhole 101, alternatives to seating rings may also be utilised, such as bricks and concrete. As it will be appreciated, these alternatives may be even more difficult to provide alignment for and therefore the manhole device provides suitable alignment means in this alternative embodiment.

Figure 6

Once construction of manhole 101 has been completed, manhole device 201 is no longer required as a guide for construction or as a device for blocking access into manhole 101. However, instead of removing manhole device 201 from opening 102 of manhole 101, manhole device 201 is configured to remain in situ in opening 102 once construction has been completed.

Thus, at least part of upper portion 203 is removable from lower portion 204 so as to provide access to manhole 101 and manhole shaft 108 via internal space 301 from a ground surface 601. Thus, in this way, the remainder of manhole device 201 is retained within manhole 101 to provide a liner. As a liner, the smooth internal surface 304, as previously described with respect to Figure 3, is able to perform its function of preventing snagging from operatives or their equipment once they are authorised to enter and exit the manhole 101.

In an embodiment, the part of the upper portion which is removed is removed by means of cutting with a suitable tool, which includes, but is not limited to paddle saws or stihl saws. Once this part has been removed, the manhole device 201 is retained in place by the securing means and the surrounding concrete and seating rings.

Figure 7

An additional perspective view of manhole device 201 in isolation is shown in Figure 7. Figure 7 shows manhole device 201 as if it had been removed from manhole 101, although in practice this would not be necessary.

It can therefore be seen that manhole device 201 comprises main body 202 which now comprises lower portion 204 and a reduced size upper portion 701. This therefore presents two open ends, open end 702 as well as previously described open end 302. Internal space 301 therefore extends between the two ends thereby providing access to manhole 101 as required.

Figure 8

Manhole device 201 is also configured to be used with a grating device 801. Figure 8 shows manhole device 201 in the configuration of Figure 7, in diagrammatic form without the surrounding constructed surface and seating rings, whereby a part of upper portion 203 has been removed to enable access to manhole 101.

As previously noted, manhole device 201 comprises at least one slot such as slots 209 and 210 which are configured to receive grating device 801 in the manner illustrated. Grating device 801 can be any suitable grating device which assists in providing limited access to manhole 101. An example of a suitable grating device is illustrated in the Applicant’s co-pending patent application (2962-P102-GB; publication number to be added when available).

Claims (20)

The invention claimed is:

1. A manhole device, comprising:

a main body comprising an upper portion, a lower portion and a securing means; wherein said securing means is engageable with a manhole such that, when secured to a manhole, said upper portion protrudes above a surface level and said lower portion is retained below a surface level in the manhole; and said main body is configured to provide alignment means for construction around a manhole and further provides a barrier so as to prevent access to a manhole during construction.

2. A manhole device according to claim 1, wherein said main body comprises an outer wall defining an internal space.

3. A manhole device according to claim 2, wherein said main body comprises at least one slot in said outer wall.

4. A manhole device according to claim 3, wherein said at least one slot is configured to receive a grating device.

5. A manhole device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein said outer wall comprises a ribbed outer surface.

6. A manhole device according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein said main body further comprises a top surface extending from an edge of said outer wall, said top surface being configured to prevent access into said internal space.

7. A manhole device according to claim 6, wherein said top surface comprises a ventilation hole to allow ventilation to said manhole when fitted.

8. A manhole device according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein said top surface comprises a cavity.

9. A manhole device according to any preceding claim, wherein said main body further comprises an open end in said lower portion.

10. A manhole device according to any preceding claim, wherein said securing means comprises a tab at an interface between said upper portion and said lower portion, said tab thereby preventing said upper portion from entering said manhole.

11. A manhole device according to any preceding claim, wherein said securing means comprises a tapered wedge configured to interfere with an inner surface of said manhole so as to hold said manhole device in position.

12. A manhole device according to any preceding claim, wherein said main body comprises a smooth internal surface.

13. A manhole device according to any preceding claim, wherein said upper portion comprises a visual indicator to improve visibility of said upper portion.

14. A manhole system comprising a manhole and a manhole device, said manhole device comprising:

a main body comprising an upper portion and a lower portion, said main body being positioned in said manhole; wherein said upper portion protrudes above a surface level, and said lower portion includes a securing means configured to retain said lower portion below said surface level and in said manhole; and further wherein said main body provides alignment means for construction around a manhole and further provides a barrier so as to prevent access to a manhole during construction.

15. A manhole system according to claim 14, wherein said main body further comprises a top surface extending from an edge of said outer wall, said top surface configured to prevent access into said internal space.

16. A manhole system according to claim 14 or claim 15, wherein at least part of said upper portion is removable from said lower portion to provide access to said manhole from a ground surface.

17. A method of constructing a manhole, comprising the steps of: obtaining a manhole device having a main body comprising an upper portion, a lower portion and a securing means;

positioning said manhole device in a manhole such that said upper portion protrudes above a surface level and said lower portion is retained below a surface level in the manhole;

engaging said securing means with said manhole to secure said manhole device in position;

providing an alignment means for construction around said manhole by means of said main body; and preventing access to said manhole during construction by providing a barrier by means of said main body.

18. A method of constructing a manhole according to claim 17, further comprising the step of:

removing at least part of said upper portion of said manhole device to provide access to said manhole from a ground surface.

19. A method of constructing a manhole according to claim 17 or claim 18, wherein said step of providing an alignment means comprises:

5 aligning a plurality of seating rings or bricks around said manhole device.

20. A method of constructing a manhole according any one of claims 17 to 19, further comprising the step of:

10 providing an indication of required height of a final surface by means of said protruding upper portion.