Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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ADJUSTABLE UTILITY ACCESS DEVICE
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. The Field of the Invention.
The present invention relates generally to a utility access, such as a
manhole. More particularly, the present invention relates to a height and/or
angle adjustable utility access or manhole having a variable cover height
adjustment, and/or variable angular adjustment, to allow the top of the cover
to
sit flush with the surrounding surface, such as a road.
2. The Background Art.
A utility access provides access to various underground equipment
associated with various utilities. Examples of utilities include sewer
pipelines or
systems, electrical cables or systems, telephone cables or systems, natural
gas
lines or systems, gas or oil pipelines or systems, cable television lines or
systems, water or drainage pipelines or systems, etc. Examples of equipment
associated with the utilities include pipelines, cables, valves, meters,
switches,
storage, etc. The utility access can be large enough for a worker to
physically
pass therethough, such as a manhole, or can be smaller providing only visual
access, such as for a meter, or providing only tool access, such as for a
valve.
As an example, a manhole is an opening in any surface large enough to
allow workmen to descend beneath the surface to obtain access to stored
materials or equipment or underground installations. The openings are normally
in areas carrying traffic so that a means of securely framing and covering the
opening must be provided. The manholes must also be strong enough to
withstand various external loadings, for example the loading of vehicles
moving
over the manhole.
In the prior art, the standard procedure has been to frame the opening
with a grey iron casting. These castings typically incorporate a flanged
surface
that rests on a supporting structure that is located under ground. This
supporting
structure typically comprises standard concrete rings long enough so that a
number of them form a passage to reach the underground installation. The
flanged surface of the manhole transmits the weight of the equipment, together
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with live surface loads, to the supporting structure. The frame typically
incorporates a projecting ledge around the circumference and a cast iron cover
rests on the ledge and closes the manhole. The cover is a removable casting
designed to carry the surface loads, and must transmit those forces to the
underground supporting structure through the frame. The cover must be heavy to
avoid vandalism. In some cases it is bolted down in order to make the
installation water tight and tamper proof.
In one situation, a subsequent layer of surfacing material (for example,
asphalt) is added to the road surface. When this happens, the manhole may need
to be adjusted to match the height of the new road. Typically, adjustment is
done
by filling the space between the manhole top structure and the supporting
manhole frame structure with layers of bricks and mortar. This is a manual,
time-
consuming procedure. In addition, spacers may be used.
In addition, road surfaces are often sloped to resist the accumulation of
water on the road surface. It will be appreciated that it is often difficult
to match
the orientation of the manhole cover with the slope of the road.
Examples of patents related to work in this area are U.S. Patents
4,273,467; 5,496,128; 5,564,855; 5,956,905; 4,337,005; 5,366,317; 5,451,119;
and 5,470,172.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It has been recognized that it would be advantageous to develop an
improved utility access or manhole top structure which is adjustable in height
and/or angle. In addition, it has been recognized that it would be
advantageous to
develop a utility access or manhole with a variable cover height adjustment,
and/or a variable angular adjustment, to allow the top of the cover to sit
flush
with the surrounding surface, such as a road. In addition, it has been
recognized
that it would be advantageous to develop a method for adjusting the height and
angular orientation of a utility access.
The invention provides an adjustable utility access device with 1) a height
adjustment means for adjusting the height of a cover relative to a frame or
base
ring, and/or 2) an angle adjustment means for adjusting the angle of the cover
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relative to the frame or base ring. Thus, the cover can be positioned flush
with a
surface, such as a roadway.
The utility access can be a manhole, and the frame or base ring can be
secured to a manhole extension. The frame has an opening therethrough to
provide access to the utility. The cover is removably disposed over the
opening
of the frame to cover the utility access. The height adjustment means and the
angle adjustment means can be disposed between the frame and the cover.
In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the height
adjustment means includes 1) a first position that maintains the cover at a
first
height, and 2) a different second position that maintains the cover at a
different
second height.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the angle
adjustment means can include 1) a first position in which a top edge of an
adaptor
ring is parallel with a bottom edge of the frame, and 2) a second position in
which
the top edge of the adaptor ring forms an angle with respect to the bottom
edge of
the frame greater than 0 degrees and less than 20 degrees.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the angle
adjustment means further comprises an adaptor ring rotatably disposed on the
frame or base ring, and first and second angled edges formed between the
adaptor
ring and the frame. The frame can include the first angled edge, and the
adaptor .
ring can include the second angled edge.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the height
adjustment means and the angle adjustment means further comprise the frame
having a first angled edge. An adaptor ring can be rotatably disposed on the
frame, and have a second angled edge rotatably engagable with the first angled
edge of the frame. In addition, the adaptor ring can have a plurality of steps
formed thereon. An extension ring can be selectively disposed on the adaptor
ring, and have at least one tab attached thereto selectively engagable with
'at least
one of the plurality of steps.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the height
adjustment means can include a plurality of steps or pockets formed about a
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circumference of the opening, and have bottoms disposed at different
elevations.
At least one mating tab can selectively mate with at least one of the pockets
to
selectively position the tab at a desired elevation.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the height
adjustment means can include an adaptor ring disposed on the frame, and having
a plurality of steps at different elevations formed about a circumference
thereof.
An extension ring can be disposed on the adaptor ring, and can have at least
one
tab selectively engagable with at least one of the plurality of steps to
selectively
elevate the extension with respect to the frame.
A method of using the adjustable utility access, or for adjusting the
orientation and/or height of the cover, includes locating the frame over the
utility
access; and locating the cover over the opening of the frame. The orientation
of
the cover can be adjusted by selectively rotating first and second angled
edges to
selectively orient the cover with respect to the frame. The height of the
cover can
be adjusted by selectively rotating the at least one tab with respect to a
plurality of
steps to selectively adjust a height of the cover with respect to the frame.
In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the step of
selectively rotating the first and second angled edges further includes
selectively
rotating an adaptor ring with respect to the frame. The frame and adaptor ring
have the respective first and second angled edges.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the step of
selectively rotating the adaptor ring further includes engaging the ground
with a
distal end of a lever arm; engaging a protrusion which extends from the
adaptor
ring with an intermediate section of the lever arm which is adjacent the
distal end;
and pivoting the lever arm about the distal end thereof by applying a force to
a
proximal end of the Iever arm.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the frame also
can be selectively rotated by engaging the ground with a distal end of a Iever
arm;
engaging a protrusion which extends from the frame with an intermediate
section
of the lever arm which is adjacent the distal end; and pivoting the lever arm
about
the distal end thereof by applying a force to a proximal end of the lever arm.
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Thus, both the frame and adaptor ring can be selectively rotated to properly
orient
the cover.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the step of
selectively rotating first and second angled edges, and the step of
selectively
rotating the at least one tab with respect to the plurality of steps, further
include
selectively rotating an adaptor ring with respect to the frame, the frame and
adaptor ring having the respective first and second angled edges; and
selectively
rotating an extension ring with respect to the adaptor ring, the adaptor ring
having
the plurality of steps formed thereon, and the extension ring having the at
least
one tab attached thereto to selectively engage at least one of the plurality
of steps
of the adaptor ring. The step of selectively rotating the adaptor ring further
includes engaging the ground with a distal end of a lever arm; engaging a
protrusion which extends from the adaptor ring with an intermediate section of
the lever arm which is adjacent the distal end; and pivoting the lever arm
about
the distal end thereof by applying a force to a proximal end of the lever arm.
Again, the frame can be selectively rotated by engaging the ground with a
distal
end of a lever arm; engaging a protrusion which extends from the frame with an
intermediate section of the lever arm which is adjacent the distal end; and
pivoting the lever arm about the distal end thereof by applying a force to a
proximal end of the lever arm. Thus, both the frame and adaptor ring can be
selectively rotated to properly orient the cover..
Additional features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from
the detailed description which follows, taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, which together illustrate, by way of example, features
of
the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side view of angularly adjustable utility access
device in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 2 is an exploded side view of a height adjustable utility access device
in accordance with the present invention;
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FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an adaptor ring with a plurality of steps of
the utility access device of FIG. 2;
FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of another height adjustable utility
access device in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. S is an exploded perspective view of another height adjustable utility
access device with a height adjustment mechanism in accordance with the
present
invention;
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a height adjustment ring of the height
adjustment mechanism of FIG. 5;
FIG. 7 is a partial, cross sectional side view of the height adjustment
mechanism of FIG. 5;
FIG. 8 is an exploded side view of a height and angle adjustable utility
access device in accordance with the present invention;
FIG. 9 is a cross sectional side view of the utility access device of FIG. 8,
shown in a first lower position, and a first zero pitch orientation;
FIG. 10 is a cross sectional side view of the utility access device of FIG.
8, shown in a second higher position, and a second angled orientation;
FIG. 11 is a side view of the utility access device of FIG. 8, shown in the
first lower position, and the second angled orientation;
FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the utility access device of
FIG. 8;
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the frame of the utility access device of
FIG. 8, showing a method for rotating the frame in accordance with the present
invention; and
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the adaptor ring of the utility access
device of FIG. 8 showing a method for rotating the adaptor ring in accordance
with the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the
invention, reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments illustrated
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in the drawings, and specific language will be used to describe the same. It
will
nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is
thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications of the inventive
features illustrated herein, and any additional applications of the principles
of the
invention as illustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the
relevant
art and having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered within the
scope
of the invention.
The present invention provides an adjustable utility access, such as a
manhole, with 1) an adjustable height, 2) an adjustable angle, or 3) both an
adjustable height and an adjustable angle, to adjust or vary the height and/or
angle
of a cover to allow a top of the cover to be oriented and located as desired,
such
as to sit flush with the surrounding surface or road. Manholes or manhole
access
are an example of a field that can benefit from the use of such an adjustable
utility access. While the invention is illustrated and described below as
being
configured for use as a manhole for providing access to a utility beneath a
roadway, it is of course understood that the present invention can be
configured
for access to any structure, storage, or utility, including for example, water
lines,
water valves, water meters, gas lines, gas valves, cable lines and equipment,
electrical lines and equipment, etc.
The present invention provides a utility access device that can be used
with a utility access for various underground equipment associated with a
utility.
The utility access device can be configured for use with the particular
utility
access. As stated above, the utility access can be for pipelines, cables,
valves,
switches, storage, etc. associated with sewer, drainage, telephone, cable
television, electrical, gas or oil systems, and the like. The utility access
device
can be sized larger to accommodate the passage or a worker therethrough, or
smaller to accommodate only tools or visual inspections.
By way of example, the utility access device is described below and
illustrated herein with respect to a manhole. The utility access can be
disposed
on, or attached to, a manhole extension 6, or upper surface or top edge 8
thereof.
The manhole extension 6 is usually made of concrete and has an hole forming a
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vertical shaft for workmen to climb down fox access to underground utilities,
storage or structures. Typically, the utility access is surrounded by
supporting
ground material 9, like concrete or asphalt. The upper surface or top edge 8
is
typically perpendicular to a plumb line to ensure a vertical shaft for sewer
workers to climb down into. Typically, the utility access and manhole
extension
6 are located underneath a surface, such as a roadway, and the cover typically
must be flush with the surface or roadway.
Adjustable An~le Utili Access
As illustrated in FIG. 1, an angle adjustable utility access device or
manhole assembly 10 is shown for adjusting or varying the angular orientation
of
a utility or manhole cover 12. As stated above, the manhole assembly 10 can be
disposed on the manhole extension 6, or upper surface 8 thereof, and can be
surrounded by supporting ground material 9, like concrete or asphalt. The
manhole assembly 10 can include a rotatable angular top ring 14, and an
angular
frame or base ring 16, both of which are stacked on top of the manhole
extension
6, and both of which support the manhole cover 12. The top ring 14 may have a
coupling 22 for holding the lid 12 onto the ring 14. The coupling 22 would
typically, but not necessarily, include a lid wall 24, for holding the manhole
lid
12, a shoulder 26, for supporting the lid 12.
The top ring 14 has a height dimension that increases uniformly from a
first height associated with a first side 18, and maximizes at a second height
associated with a second side 20. The top ring 14 has a variable height wall
28
that uniformly increases in height from the short side 18 to the maximum
height
side 20. The top ring 14 also has a bottom edge 29 that is parallel to line 27
that
illustrates angle 25 that is created from the height variation between sides
18 and
20. In one aspect, the created angle 25 can be between two and ten degrees.
The base ring 16 includes a base coupling 30 for coupling to the lower
portion of the top ring 14. The coupling 30 may be designed with a vertical
holding wall 32, for holding the ring 14 from moving off of the base ring 16,
and
a base coupling shoulder 34 for supporting the top ring 14. The base ring also
can include a lower base coupling 36, for holding the base ring 16 onto the
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manhole extension 6. The lower base coupling 36, may include, but not be
limited to, an extension 38, for holding the whole adjustable ring assembly 10
on
top of the extension 6, and a lower coupling wall 40, for holding the base
ring 16
from sliding off of the manhole extension 6. The base ring 16 also has a
shorter
side 44 and a taller side 42 that forms a angle 46. It is noted that line 48
is
parallel to a bottom edge 50 and is positioned to illustrate the angle 46. The
angle 46 can be between two and ten degrees. The bottom edge 50 of the base
ring 16 can be parallel to the top edge 8 of the manhole extension 6.
The top ring 14 advantageously is rotatably disposed on the base ring 16.
Thus, the top ring 14 can be selectively rotated on the base ring 16 to
selectively
orient an upper edge of the top ring 14, or the cover 12. Thus, one ring can
be
rotated with respect to another to obtain the desired angle or pitch, and both
rings
can be rotated together to properly orient the angle or pitch. It should be
noted
that most aII designs of manhole extensions 6 are designed with the top edge 8
to
be level, or perpendicular to plumb. This is to ensure that the hole to the
sewer is
perpendicular to the sewer lines. Uniquely, a maximum amount of pitch to the
cover 12 is achieved by placing the shortest sections 18 and 44 of the top and
base rings 14 and 16 upon each other, as currently illustrated, which will
position
the largest ends 20 and 42 upon each other. Additionally, it is possible to
have
the cover 12 in a zero pitch, or a zero degree slope. This is accomplished by
having the largest and smallest sections 18 and 42, and 20 and 44, stacked
above
each other. Specifically, the angle achieved by the one ring would be off set
by
the opposite angle provided by the other ring.
It is further noted that each ring section is designed to withstand the full
weight of any passing vehicle. These sections are desired to be made of cast
iron
or other strong materials. They are designed to be sold in combination and are
not made to be separate from each other.
One skilled in the art would be capable of making many obvious design
changes which would stay within the scope of the invention disclosed in this
application. It is noted that cement extension 6 is illustrated as having no
groove
therein to accommodate the insertion of the base ring 16. However, it is also
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understood that there are many ways to place the lower ring 16 over the
extension
6. For example, the base ring 16 could be bolted thereon, or could even be
threaded to the extension 6.
Adjustable Hei hg tL Utili , Access
5 As illustrated in FIG. 2, a height adjustable utility access device,
indicated
generally at 110, in accordance with the present invention is shown for
adjusting
the height of a cover 14 to be flush with a surface, such as a roadway. The
utility
access device 110 can include the cover 14 and a frame or manhole ring 118.
The
frame 118 has an opening 122 therethrough for providing access therethrough to
a
10 utility. The cover 14 covers the opening 122. The frame 118 can be disposed
on
or attached to a manhole extension 6 (FIGs. 1 and 5).
The utility access device 110 advantageously includes a height adjustment
mechanism or means for adjusting the height of the cover 14 with respect to
the
frame 118, and thus with respect to a surface or roadway. Preferably, the
utility
access device 110 includes an adaptor or adaptor ring 130, and an extension or
extension ring 134. The adaptor ring 130 is disposable on, and engages, the
frame 118, while the extension ring 134 is disposed on, or received by the
adaptor
ring 130. The cover 14 is removably disposed on the extension ring 134, and
thus is removably disposed over the opening 122 of the frame 118. Both the
adaptor ring 130 and extension ring 134 can be annular or ring-like, and have
access holes formed therethrough. It is of course understood, that the adaptor
130
and extension 134 can be of any shape.
The frame 118 preferably is a standard frame configured to receive a
standard cover 14. Thus, the adaptor ring 130 can have a lip 138 sized and
shaped to be received by the frame 118, similarly to how the cover 14 would be
received. Similarly, the cover 14 preferably is a standard cover. Thus, the
extension ring 134 can have an opening 142 (FIG. 4) sized and shaped to
receive
the cover 14.
The adaptor ring 130 advantageously includes a plurality of steps or
pockets 146 (FIG. 3), while the extension ring 134 includes one or more mating
tabs 150 (FIG. 2) which engage or selectively mate with the steps or pockets
146
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to selectively position the tabs 150, and thus the extension ring 134 and
cover 14,
at a desired elevation. Referring to FIG. 3, the plurality of steps or pockets
146
can be formed in an inner surface or circumference of the adaptor ring 130,
and
are disposed at different elevations. The plurality of steps or pockets 146
S preferably includes three sets of steps or pockets, each with a matching
plurality
of steps or pockets. It is believed that three sets of steps or pockets, and
three
tabs 150 (FIG. 2) provides the greatest stability between the adaptor ring 130
and
extension ring 134 (FIG. 2), and greatest flexibility in tolerances. For
example, it
is believed that three tabs 150 (FIG. 2) can engage or rest on three steps 146
without wobbling, and without meeting exacting tolerances.
As discussed above, the plurality of steps or pockets 146 can be
conceptualized in different ways. The adaptor ring 130 can have a plurality of
steps arranged in a stair-like fashion around the interior of the adaptor ring
130,
with each subsequent step being at a higher or lower elevation as the steps
extend
around the adaptor ring 130. The adaptor ring 130 also can have a plurality of
pockets or indentations formed in the inner surface and upper edge of the
adaptor
ring 130. The pockets can have bottom walls at different elevations, or the
pockets can have different depths from the upper edge. In addition, adjacent
steps or pockets 146 can be separated by walls 154 which prevent the tabs 1 SO
(FIG. 2) from inadvertently moving from one step to another. For example, a
wall 154 can be formed between a step and a proximal lower step to prevent the
tab 150 from sliding off the step to the lower step under an applied force
and/or
vibration.
Refernng again to FIG. 2, the one or more tabs 150 can be formed on the
extension ring 134. The tabs 150 can be formed on the exterior surface or
outer
circumference of the extension ring 134. As stated above, the extension ring
134
preferably has three tabs 150. The tabs 150 have a bottom surface which
engages
or rests on the steps 146 (FIG. 3). In addition, the tabs 150 can be sized and
shaped to mate with the pockets 146 (FIG. 3).
~ The extension ring 134 can be vertically manipulated, indicated by arrow
15~, with respect to the adaptor ring 130. For example, the extension ring 134
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can be lifted vertically upwardly from the adaptor ring 130, and/or vertically
placed on or in the adaptor ring 130. In addition, the extension ring 134 can
be
rotated, indicated by arrow 162, with respect to the adaptor ring 130. Thus,
the
extension ring 134 can be displaced vertically upwardly, and rotated, with
respect
to the adaptor ring 130 to position the extension ring 134 at a desired height
with
respect to the adaptor ring 130. For example, to increase the height or
elevate the
extension ring 134, the extension ring 134 is lifted and turned so that the
tab 150
engages a higher step or pocket 146 (FIG. 3). With walls 154 extending to the
top or upper edge of the adaptor ring 130, it may be necessary to completely
remove the extension ring 134 from the adaptor ring 130 prior to rotation.
Thus,
the extension ring 134 can have a plurality of positions or rotational
orientations
with respect to the adaptor ring 130 which result in different heights or
elevations
of the extension ring 134. For example, the extension ring 134 can have a
first
position in which the tabs 1 SO rest on first steps or in first pockets 146
(FIG. 3) to
maintain the cover 14 at a first height, and at least a second position in
which the
tabs 150 rest on different second steps or in different second pockets at a
different
elevation to maintain the cover 14 at a different second height.
The extension ring 134 can be sized and shaped to extend into the adaptor
ring 130. The extension ring 134 can have a vertical skirt or extension 166
with a
length or height sized to completely cover the steps or pockets when the
extension ring 134 is received within the adaptor ring 130, thus preventing
access
to any cavities created by the steps from inside the rings.
The adaptor ring 130 with steps 146 (FIG. 3) and the extension ring 134
with tabs 150 are one example of a height adjustment means for adjusting the
height of the cover 14 relative to the frame 11~. It is of course understood
that
other means can be used, including for example: exterior steps or pockets, and
interior tabs; steps on the extension ring, and tabs on the adaptor ring;
steps or
tabs directly on the frame; a plurality of steps forming the tabs; various
different
numbers of sets of steps and/or tabs; etc. Other examples of height adjustment
means are described below with respect to alternative embodiments. One
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advantage of the adaptor ring 130 and extension ring 134 is that they can be
used
with typical or existing frames 118 and covers 14.
Refernng to FIG. 4, another height adjustable utility access device,
indicated generally at 200, is shown, which is similar in many respect to the
device 110 described above. The utility access device 200 includes a frame 210
with the plurality of steps or pockets 146 formed directly therein, thus
eliminating
the need for the separate adaptor described above. Again, the extension ring
134
with tabs 150, and the frame 210 with steps 146, is one example of a height
adjustment means for adjusting the height of the cover relative to the frame.
It is
of course understood that other configurations are possible, including for
example: external steps or pockets, and internal tabs; forming the steps in
the
extension ring and the tabs on the frame; etc.
Referring to FIG. 5, another height adjustable utility access device,
indicated generally at 250, is shown. The utility access device 250 includes a
frame 118 and a cover 14. The utility access device also includes an extension
apparatus or height adjustment device 254 having first and second, or lower
and
upper, rings 258 and 262. The device 254, or rings 258 and 262, preferably can
be disposed between the frame 118 and the cover 14. The first ring 258 can be
disposed on the frame 118, while the second ring 262 is disposed on the first
ring
258, and receives the cover 14. Like the embodiments described above, the
height adjustment device 254 utilizes a plurality of steps.
Referring to FIG. 6, a portion of the height adjustment device 254 is
shown, namely the first or lower ring 258. The second or upper ring 262 can be
a
similar, but inverted ring. The lower and upper rings, illustrated by the
lower ring
258, includes a plurality of steps 268. As described above, the steps 268 can
include a plurality of sets 272 of steps. The steps 268 can increase uniformly
in
height or elevation from the bottom step to the top step. These steps 268 can
be
formed of a riser section 276 and a platform 280.
Referring to FIG. 7, there is illustrated a portion of the adjusting device
254. Specifically, the lower ring 258 is in a meshed position with the upper
ring
262. Both rings have steps 268, resembling steps of a stairway, which
preferably
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increase uniformly in height from a bottom step to a top step. Uniquely, it is
noted that the platform 280 may have an angle 284, which would be angled from
a base edge 288. Additionally, it is noted that the riser 276 may also be
sloped in
either direction 276a or 276b. The various riser angles allow for several
advantages. For example, riser 276a makes it easier to move the height
adjustment devise 254 from step to step, where riser 276b will actually make
it
harder to move the height adjustment devise 254 and actually hold the steps
into
position.
The operation of the height adjustment device 254 can be viewed as a
meshing action. Specifically, the upper ring 262 can be rotated and replaced
onto
the lower ring 258, and thereby meshing the steps 268 of both the rings 258
and
262, thus selecting an appropriate overall height.
The adjustable device 254, or first and second rings 258 and 262, is
another example of a height adjustment means. In addition, the rings 258 and
262 could also be made to be permanently fixed to each other by means of
bolts,
or pegs, or other secure means of bonding after having been adjusted. In a
similar
manner, the lower ring 258, could be made to securely and permanently fasten
to
the frame 118. Additionally, the cover 14 could be permanently fixed to the
upper ring 262. Although the adjustable unit 254 is illustrated as fitting
into the
frame 118, it also can be modified to fit over the sides of frame 118. In
addition,
the rings 258 and 262 also could be made with appropriate hand-grips, or means
of inserting external handles, to facilitate the workers in repositioning the
height
adjustment.
It is noted that adjustable device 254 is illustrated to be positioned
between the cover 14 and the frame 118. However, adjustable unit 254 can be
placed below the frame 118, and above the manhole extension 6 and still
achieve
the same results.
It should be noted that most top manhole assemblies are of a fixed height
design. In a typical installation the manhole is located in a road for access
to a
sewer. When a subsequent layer of material is added to the surface, the
manhole
covers are no longer flush with the road surface. In one application of the
present
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invention, the height or elevation of the cover 14 is increased. This provides
a
cost effective and efficient means of adjusting the height of manhole cover
assemblies to match the surrounding surface. It is further noted that the
frames
and rings described above are designed to withstand the full weight of any
5 passing vehicle or other live load. The frames and rings can be made out of
cast
iron or other strong material.
It is further noted that the above embodiments show the sets of steps
making a transition from a high step to a low step. The transition, however,
can
be from the highest step to any intermediate step. Thus, a pyramid shaped
10 stepping sequence could also be employed. This would allow rotation in
either
direction.
Referring to FIG. 2, the frame 118 can include one or more protrusions
290 formed thereon and extending outwardly in a radial direction past the
circumference or perimeter of the frame 118. Similarly, the adaptor ring 130
can
15 include one or more protrusions 294. The protrusions 290 and 294 preferably
are
plate like or have flat faces. The protrusions 290 and 294 form, or act as,
anchors
to resist movement and/or pivoting of the frame 118 or adaptor ring 130 after
installation. Typically, concrete or asphalt is poured around the frame 118
and
adaptor ring 130, and thus around the protrusions 290 and 294.
Adjustable Height and Angle Utility Access
As illustrated in FIG. 8, a height and angle adjustable utility access
device, indicated generally at 310, in accordance with the present invention
is
shown for adjusting the height and angle of a cover 14 to be flush with a
surface
(not shown), such as a roadway. The utility access device 310 can include the
cover 14 and a frame or manhole ring 318. The frame 318 is similar in many
respects to the frame described above. The utility access device 310
advantageously includes a height adjustment mechanism or means for adjusting
the height of the cover 14 with respect to the frame 318, and thus with
respect to
a surface or roadway. In addition, the utility access device 310
advantageously
includes an angle adjustment means for adjusting the angle of the cover 14
relative to the frame 318, and thus with respect to a surface or roadway.
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16
In one aspect, the utility access device 310 includes an adaptor or adaptor
ring 330, and an extension or extension ring 134. The adaptor ring 330 is
similar
in many respects to the adaptor ring described above. The adaptor ring 330 is
disposable on, and engages, the frame 318, while the extension ring 134 is
disposed on, or received by the adaptor ring 330. The cover 14 is removably
disposed on the extension ring 134, and thus is removably disposed over the
opening 122 of the frame 318. Both the adaptor ring 330 and extension ring 134
can be annular or ring-like, and have access holes formed therethrough. It is
of
course understood, that the adaptor 330 and extension 134 can be of any shape.
The cover 14 preferably is a standard cover. Thus, the extension ring 134 can
have an opening 342 (FIG. 12) sized and shaped to receive the cover 14.
The adaptor ring 330 advantageously includes a plurality of steps or
pockets 146 (FIG. 12), while the extension ring 134 (FIG. 8) includes one or
more mating tabs 150 which engage or selectively mate with the steps or
pockets
146 to selectively position the tabs 150, and thus the extension ring 134 and
cover
14, at a desired elevation. The extension ring 134 can be vertically
manipulated,
indicated by arrow 158 (FIG. 8), with respect to the adaptor ring 330. For
example, the extension ring 134 can be lifted vertically upwardly from the
adaptor ring 330, and/or vertically placed on or in the adaptor ring 330. In
addition, the extension ring 134 can be rotated, indicated by arrow 162, with
respect to the adaptor ring 330. Thus, the extension ring 134 can be displaced
vertically upwardly, and rotated, with respect to the adaptor ring 330 to
position
the extension ring 134 at a desired height with respect to the adaptor ring
330.
For example, to increase the height, or elevate, the extension ring 134, the
extension ring 134 is lifted and turned so that the tab 150 engages a higher
step or
pocket 146 (FIG. 12). With walls 154 extending to the top or upper edge of the
adaptor ring 330, it may be necessary to completely remove the extension ring
134 from the adaptor ring 330 prior to rotation. Thus, the extension ring 134
can
have a plurality of positions or rotational orientations with respect to the
adaptor
ring 330 which result in different heights or elevations of the extension ring
134.
For example, the extension ring 134 can have a first position in which the
tabs
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17
150 rest on first steps or in first pockets 146 (FIG. 12) to maintain the
cover 14 at
a first height, as shown in FIG. 9, and at least a second position in which
the tabs
150 rest on different second steps or in different second pockets at a
different
elevation to maintain the cover 14 at a different second height, as shown in
FIG.
10.
Referring to FIG. 8, as stated above, the utility access device 310 also
advantageously includes an angle adjustment means or orientor to selectively
orient the cover 14 with respect to the frame 318. The frame 318 has a bottom
edge 370 which can be disposed on a manhole extension, as is known in the art.
The bottom edge 370 is commonly oriented horizontally, or perpendicular to
vertical. Preferably, the frame 318 also has a top edge 374 which
advantageously
is angled with respect to the bottom edge 370. The frame 318 has a perimeter
wall 376 which varies in height from a shorter end to an opposite higher end.
In addition, the adaptor ring 330 preferably has a bottom edge 378 which
I S is angled with respect to a top edge 382. The adaptor ring 330 has a
perimeter
wall 384 which varies in height from a shorter end to an opposite higher end.
The angled bottom edge 378 rotatably engages the angled top edge 374 of the
frame 318. The angled edges 378 and 374 form the orientor. Thus, the angular
orientation of the adaptor ring 330, or upper edge 382 thereof, can be
selectively
oriented with respect to the frame 318, or bottom edge thereof 370. For
example,
the adaptor ring 330 and frame 318 can have a first position in which the top
edge
382 of the adaptor ring 330 is parallel with the bottom edge 370 of the frame
318,
such as by aligning the shorter end of the adaptor ring 330 with the higher
end of
the frame 3I8, as shown in FIG. 9. In addition, the adaptor ring 330 and frame
318 can have a second position in which the top edge 382 of the adaptor ring
330
forms an angle with respect to the bottom edge 370 of the frame 318, as shown
in
FIG. 10. Such an angle can be formed by selectively orienting or rotating the
adaptor ring 330 with respect to the frame 318. It will be appreciated that a
maximum angular orientation can be achieved by aligning the higher ends of the
adaptor ring 330 and frame 318.
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In one aspect, the angled top edge 374 of the frame 318 forms an angle
with respect to the bottom edge 370 greater than 0 degrees, and less than or
equal
to 10 degrees. Similarly, the angled bottom edge 378 of the adaptor ring 330
preferably forms an angle with respect to the top edge 382 greater than 0
degrees,
and less than or equal to 10 degrees. Thus, the adaptor ring 330 and frame 318
can be oriented or rotated with respect to one another to vary the angle
between
the bottom and top edges 370 and 382 between 0 and twenty degrees.
Referring to FIG. 12, the top edge 374 of the frame 318 can be configured
to receive the bottom edge 378 of the adaptor ring 330. The top edge 374 can
have a lip or flange upon which the bottom edge 378 abuts, and a perimeter
wall
surrounding the bottom edge 378. Thus, the adaptor ring 330 can rotate within
the frame 318. It is of course understood that the mating structure can be
reversed so that the top edge of the frame is received within the bottom edge
of
the adaptor ring.
The angled edges 374 and 378 between the adaptor ring 330 and frame
318, or between the frame 318 and cover 14, are one example of an angle
adjustment means for adjusting the angle of the cover 14 relative to the frame
318. It is of course understood that other means can be used, including for
example, different angled edges, etc. It also is understood that the locations
of
the height adjustment means and the angle adjustment means can be reversed.
In addition, the rings and frame can be permanently fixed to each other by
means
of bolts, or pegs, or other secure means of bonding after having been
adjusted. In
addition, the rings also could be made with appropriate hand-grips, or means
of
inserting external handles, t~ facilitate the workers in repositioning the
height
adjustment.
It is noted that the height adjustment means and angle adjustment means
are illustrated to be positioned between the cover 14 and the frame 318. Both,
however, can be placed below the frame 318, and above the manhole extension 6
(FIGS. l and 5), and still achieve the same results.
It should be noted that most top manhole assemblies are of a fixed height
and fixed angular orientation design. In a typical installation the manhole is
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19
located in a road for access to a sewer. When a subsequent layer of material
is
added to the surface, the manhole covers are no longer flush with the road
surface. In one application of the present invention, the height or elevation
of the
cover 14 is increased, and the angular orientation adjusted. This provides a
cost
effective and efficient means of adjusting the height and angular orientation
of
manhole cover assemblies to match the surrounding surface. It is further noted
that the frames and rings described above are designed to withstand the full
weight of any passing vehicle or other live load. The frames and rings can be
made out of cast iron or other strong material.
A method for using the adjustable utility access 310 described above, or
for adjusting the orientation and the height of the cover 14, includes the
steps of
locating the frame 318 with its opening 122 over the utility access; locating
the
cover 14 over the opening 122 of the frame; selectively rotating the first and
second angled edges 374 and 378 to selectively orient the cover 14 with
respect to
the frame318; and selectively rotating the tab 150 with respect to the
plurality of
steps 146 to selectively adjust the height of the cover 14 with respect to the
frame
318.
The step of selectively rotating the first and second angled edges 374 and
378 can further include selectively rotating the adaptor ring 330 with respect
to
the frame 318. Referring to FIGs. 13 and 14, the frame 318 and adaptor ring
330
advantageously can be rotated with respect to one another or the ground 396
using a lever arm 400 and protrusions form on, and extending from, the frame
and adaptor ring. The frame can have one or more protrusions 404 extending
therefrom in a radial direction, and extending beyond the circumference or
perimeter of the frame 318. Similarly, the adaptor ring 330 can have one or
more
protrusions 408. The lever arm 400 can be used to engage the protrusions 404
or
408 to pivot the respective frame 318 or adaptor ring 330.
Referring to FIG. 14, the step of selectively rotating the adaptor ring can
further include engaging the ground 396 with a distal end 412 of the lever arm
400. The protrusion 408 can be engaged by an intermediate portion 416 of the
lever arm 400. The intermediate portion 416 is adjacent the distal end 412.
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Force, indicated by arrow 420, can be applied to a proximal end 424 of the
lever
arm 400 to pivot the lever arm 400 about the distal end 412, thus causing the
intermediate portion 416 to move against the protrusion 408 and rotate the
adaptor ring 330. Thus, the adaptor ring 330 can be pivoted with respect to
the
5 frame 318 to pivot the first and second angled edges 374 and 378 and adjust
the
angle of the upper end of the adaptor ring 330, and thus the cover 14.
Similarly, the frame 318 can be pivoted or rotated to further orient the
angle of the cover 14. Referring to FIG. 13, the lever arm 400 can engage the
ground 396 with its distal end 412, and engage the protrusion 404 with its
10 intermediate portion 416. Force 420 can be applied to the proximal end 424
of
the lever arm 400 to pivot the lever arm 400 about its distal end 412 causing
the
intermediate section 416 to move against the protrusion 404 and rotate the
frame
318. Thus, the frame 318 can be pivoted or rotated to orient the angle of the
cover 14.
15 It will be appreciated that the frame 318 and the adaptor ring 330 can have
significant weight, and thus be difficult to pivot or rotate by hand. In
addition, it
will be appreciated that the frame 318 and the adaptor ring 330 are located
near
ground level, making it difficult for workers to squat and turn. Thus, the
lever
arm 400 and protrusions 404 and 408 advantageously provide a method for
20 pivoting or rotating the frame 318 and adaptor ring 330. In addition, the
protrusions 404 and 408 can act as anchors to resist further movement as
concrete
or asphalt us poured about the frame and adaptor ring.
Furthermore, the step of selectively rotating the at least one tab with
respect to the plurality of steps can further include selectively rotating the
extension ring 134 with respect to the adaptor ring 330. The extension ring
134
may need to be lifted before it is rotated due to the walls 154.
It is to be understood that the above-described arrangements are only
illustrative of the application of the principles of the present invention.
Numerous modifications and alternative arrangements may be devised by those
skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
invention and the appended claims are intended to cover such modifications and
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21
arrangements. Thus, while the present invention has been shown in the drawings
and fully described above with particularity and detail in connection with
what is
presently deemed to be the most practical and preferred embodiments) of the
invention, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that
numerous
modifications, including, but not limited to, variations in size, materials,
shape,
form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use may be made, without
departing from the principles and concepts of the invention as set forth in
the
claims.
