Abstract
A manhole assembly comprising a plurality of interconnected longitudinal manhole segments is provided. In an embodiment, the plurality of interconnected longitudinal manhole segments may comprise a first edge comprising a plurality of dowel pins, a second edge comprising a plurality of dowel holes, a curved wall extending between the first edge and the second edge, and a plurality of clip bosses extending periodically along the first edge and the second edge. In another embodiment, the plurality of interconnected longitudinal manhole segments may comprise a plurality of hinges extending periodically along the first edge and the second edge.
Claims
1-20. (canceled)
21. A manhole assembly comprising: a plurality of interconnected ring segments, wherein the plurality of interconnected ring segments comprise: a large end having a first plurality of external tabs spaced between a first plurality of external rims; and a small end having a plurality of internal tabs spaced between a plurality of internal rims; a manhole base having a second plurality of external tabs spaced between a second plurality of external rims; and a manhole cover having a third plurality of external tabs spaced between a third plurality of external rims.
22. The manhole assembly of claim 21, wherein a diameter of the small end is less than a diameter of the large end.
23. The manhole assembly of claim 21, wherein the first plurality of external tabs, the second plurality of external tabs, and the third plurality of external tabs extend in a lengthwise direction from an exterior surface of the ring segment, an exterior surface of the manhole base, and an exterior surface of the manhole cover.
24. The manhole assembly of claim 21, wherein the plurality of internal tabs extend in a lengthwise direction from an interior surface of a wall of the ring segment.
25. The manhole assembly of claim 21, comprising at least one internal joint between a small end of a first of the plurality of interconnected ring segments and a small end of a second of the plurality of ring segments.
26. The manhole assembly of claim 21, comprising at least one external joint between a large end of a first of the plurality of ring segments and a large end of a second of the plurality of ring segments.
27. The manhole assembly of claim 21, wherein each of the first plurality of external tabs, the second plurality of external tabs, the third plurality of external tabs, and the plurality of internal tabs comprise angled ends.
28. The manhole assembly of claim 21, wherein each of the first plurality of external rims, the second plurality of external rims, and the third plurality of external rims has a boss shaped to receive a screw.
29. The manhole assembly of claim 21, wherein each of the plurality of internal rims has a boss shaped to receive a screw.
30. The manhole assembly of claim 21, further comprising a gasket between each of the plurality of interconnected ring segments.
31. A manhole assembly comprising: a plurality of interconnected ring segments, wherein the plurality of interconnected ring segments comprise: a large end having a first external flange; and a small end having an internal flange; a manhole base having a second external flange; and a manhole cover having a third external flange.
32. The manhole assembly of claim 31, wherein the internal flange extends inwardly from the small end of the plurality of ring segments.
33. The manhole assembly of claim 31, wherein each of the first external flange, the second external flange, and the third external flange extends outwardly from the large end of the plurality of ring segments, the manhole base, and the manhole cover.
34. The manhole assembly of claim 31, wherein the plurality of interconnected ring segments further comprise a weld element molded into the first external flange and the internal flange.
35. The manhole assembly of claim 31, wherein the manhole base further comprises a weld element molded into the second external flange.
36. The manhole assembly of claim 31, wherein the manhole cover further comprises a weld element molded into the third external flange.
37. The manhole assembly of claim 31, wherein each of the internal flange, the first external flange, the second external flange, and the third external flange further comprises a groove configured to hold a weld element.
38. A manhole assembly, comprising: a plurality of interconnected ring segments, wherein each of the plurality of interconnected ring segments comprises: a large end having a first plurality of external clip bosses; and a small end having a plurality of internal clip bosses; a manhole base having a second plurality of clip bosses; and a manhole cover having a third plurality of external clip bosses.
39. The manhole assembly of claim 38, wherein each of the first plurality of external clip bosses, the second plurality of clip bosses, and the third plurality of clip bosses extends parallel to an outer surface of the large end, an outer surface of the manhole base, and an outer surface of the manhole cover.
40. The manhole assembly of claim 38, wherein each of the plurality of internal clip bosses extends parallel to an inner surface of the small end.
41. The manhole assembly of claim 38, further comprising at least one external joint between a large end of a first of the plurality of interconnected ring segments and a large end of a second of the plurality of interconnected ring segments.
42. The manhole assembly of claim 38, further comprising at least one internal joint between a small end of a first of the plurality of interconnected ring segments and a small end of a second of the plurality of interconnected ring segments.
43. The manhole assembly of claim 42, further comprising one or more clip connecting the external joint.
44. The manhole assembly of claim 43, further comprising one or more clip connecting the internal joint.
45. The manhole assembly of claim 38, further comprising a gasket between each of the plurality of interconnected ring segments.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] FIG. 1 is a longitudinal manhole segment, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0020] FIG. 2A is an enlarged view of a portion of the inner side of the longitudinal manhole segment of FIG. 1, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 2B is an enlarged view of a portion of the inner side of the longitudinal manhole segment of FIG. 1, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 2C is an enlarged view of a portion of the outer side of the longitudinal manhole segment of FIG. 1, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 3 is a view of a manhole assembly comprising longitudinal manhole segments, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0024] FIG. 4A is an enlarged view of a joint between two interconnected longitudinal manhole segments of the manhole assembly of FIG. 3, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0025] FIG. 4B is a clip for securing two longitudinal manhole segments, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0026] FIG. 4C depicts an enlarged view of a joint between two longitudinal manhole segments of the manhole assembly of FIG. 3 connected with a clip, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0027] FIG. 5A is a manhole assembly with a hinge pin connection, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 5B is an enlarged view of a hinge pin connection of the manhole assembly of FIG. 5A, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0029] FIG. 6A is a disassembled manhole assembly with living hinges, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0030] FIG. 6B is a disassembled manhole section with living hinges, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0031] FIG. 6C is a disassembled manhole section with living hinges, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0032] FIG. 6D is an assembled manhole section with living hinges, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 6E is a partially assembled manhole assembly, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0034] FIG. 6F is an assembled manhole assembly, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0035] FIG. 6G is an enlarged view of a living hinge, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0036] FIG. 7 is a manhole assembly comprising a plurality of interconnected ring segments, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0037] FIG. 8 is a section cut of a plurality of interconnected ring segments, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0038] FIG. 9A is an enlarged view of a portion of a ring segment including an outer snap and shelf feature, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0039] FIG. 9B is an enlarged view of a portion of a large end of a ring segment including an outward facing snap tab, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0040] FIG. 9C is an enlarged view of a portion of a small end of a ring segment including an inward facing snap tab, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0041] FIG. 10A is an enlarged view of a portion of a manhole assembly including the snap connection between a ring segment and a manhole cap, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0042] FIG. 10B is an enlarged view of a portion of a manhole assembly including the snap connection between a ring segment and a manhole base, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0043] FIG. 11A is a section cut of a manhole assembly with ring segments connected through electrofusion welding, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0044] FIG. 11B is an enlarged view of a portion of the manhole assembly of FIG. 11A, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0045] FIG. 12A is a manhole assembly with ring segments connected through tank clips, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0046] FIG. 12B is an enlarged view of a portion of the manhole assembly of FIG. 12A, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0047] Examples of embodiments of the present disclosure are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the figures, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, wherever convenient, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. While examples and features of disclosed principles are described herein, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed embodiments. Also, the words comprising, having, containing, and including, and other similar forms are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items. It should also be noted that as used in the present disclosure and in the appended claims, the singular forms a, an, and the include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0048] A need has been recognized to provide a manhole that may be efficiently stacked for storage and transportation. Existing monolithic manhole assemblies may be large and inefficient to store and transport. The disclosed embodiments improve these and other deficiencies in existing manhole assemblies. For example, solutions are provided to allow for compact and space efficient manhole segments. The disclosed embodiments comprise a plurality of longitudinal manhole segments that may be efficiently stacked during storage and transportation. Such longitudinal manhole segments may be easily assembled and installed on a worksite. Alternative disclosed embodiments also comprise stackable ring segments that may be efficiently stacked during storage and transportation. Such ring segments may also be easily assembled and installed on a worksite.
[0049] References will now be made in detail to the disclosed embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
[0050] FIG. 1 depicts a longitudinal manhole segment 100. Longitudinal manhole segment 100 may comprise a rounded wall that may be used as a portion of a larger manhole assembly. A plurality of longitudinal manhole segments 100 may be compactly and securely stacked for storage and during transportation. Longitudinal manhole segment 100 may be made of molded polypropylene or polyethylene components. Longitudinal manhole segment 100 may alternatively comprise a material other than polypropylene or polyethylene; for instance, other polymers, fiberglass reinforced polyester resin, or concrete. As depicted in FIG. 1, longitudinal manhole segment 100 may comprise a plurality of horizontal reinforcements 105 and a plurality of vertical reinforcements 110. The plurality of horizontal reinforcements 105 and the plurality of vertical reinforcements 110 may comprise extrusions from the inner face of the longitudinal manhole segment 100. The plurality of horizontal reinforcements 105 and the plurality of vertical reinforcements 110 may provide increased strength and structural support to longitudinal manhole segment 100. Longitudinal manhole segment 100 may further comprise a first edge 115 and a second edge 120. First edge 115 and second edge 120 may comprise dowel pins and dowel holes to facilitate alignment of multiple longitudinal manhole segments 100 as disclosed below with respect to FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B.
[0051] FIG. 2A depicts an enlarged view of first edge 115 of longitudinal manhole segment 100 and FIG. 2B depicts an enlarged view of second edge 120 of longitudinal manhole segment 100. As depicted in FIG. 2A, first edge 115 of longitudinal manhole segment 100 may comprise a plurality of dowel pins 205. Dowel pins 205 may comprise solid, cylindrical rods extending from first edge 115. Dowel pins 205 may facilitate alignment of multiple longitudinal manhole sections 100. As depicted in FIG. 2B, second edge 120 may comprise a plurality of dowel holes 215. Dowel holes 215 may comprise openings in second edge 120 which may accept the dowel pins 205 of a second longitudinal manhole segment 100. Interconnecting the dowel pins 205 of first edge 115 of a first longitudinal manhole segment with the dowel holes 215 of the second edge 120 of a second longitudinal manhole segment may facilitate alignment and connection of each of the longitudinal manhole segments.
[0052] FIG. 2C depicts clip bosses 225 on first edge 115 of longitudinal manhole segment 100. Clip bosses 225 may extend parallel to the outer surface of longitudinal manhole segment 100 and may extend periodically along the entire length of the first edge 115 and the second edge 120 of longitudinal manhole segment 100. Clip bosses 225 may be used to connect two longitudinal manhole segments, as disclosed herein with respect to FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B.
[0053] FIG. 3 depicts a manhole assembly 300 comprising a plurality of longitudinal manhole segments 100. As depicted in FIG. 3, manhole assembly 300 may comprise three interconnected longitudinal manhole segments 100. In other embodiments, manhole assembly 300 may comprise more or fewer interconnected longitudinal manhole segments 100. The height of manhole assembly 300 may vary based on the application of the manhole assembly 300. In some embodiments, installers of the manhole assembly 300 may cut manhole assembly 300 to a specific height before installation on a work site. A diameter of a typical manhole assembly 300 may be 48 inches. However, in other embodiments, manhole assembly 300 may comprise a diameter greater or less than 48 inches. As depicted in FIG. 3, each longitudinal section 100 may be connected at a joint 305. Clip 310 may then be installed over the edges of the interconnected longitudinal manhole sections 100 at joints 305, as disclosed below with reference to FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B. In some embodiments, manhole assembly 300 may further comprise a gasket (not shown) between each joint 305. Gaskets may be made of a rubber or elastomer material and may impede the flow of water out of manhole assembly 300 through joint 305, making manhole assembly 300 watertight. In other embodiments, where resistance to water passage through the joints 305 is not needed, manhole assembly 300 may be assembled without the use of gaskets between each joint 305.
[0054] FIG. 4A depicts an enlarged view of joint 305 between two interconnected longitudinal manhole segments 100. Each longitudinal manhole segment 100 may comprise a plurality of clip bosses 225. Clip bosses 225 may extend parallel to the outer surface of longitudinal manhole segment 100. Clip bosses 225 may extend periodically along the entire length of the first edge and the second edge of a longitudinal manhole segment 100.
[0055] FIG. 4B depicts clip 310. Clip 310 may comprise notches 405 which may extend parallel to the surface of clip 310. Notches 405 may comprise a hook, which may be connected to clip bosses 225 of longitudinal manhole segments 100. As depicted in FIG. 4C, starting at one end of manhole assembly 300, clip 310 may be installed by aligning the notches 405 of clip 310 with the spaces between two sets of aligned clip bosses 225. Clip 310 may then be driven towards the opposite end of manhole assembly 300, pulling the clip bosses 225 together. The notches 405 of clip 310 may engage with clip bosses 225 of two aligned longitudinal manhole segments 100 to connect two longitudinal manhole segments 100 together. In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 4B, a single clip 310 may extend across a plurality of clip bosses 225. In other embodiments, a single clip 310 may correspond to a single clip boss 225. The length of clip 310 may vary, with the longer clips 310 requiring fewer parts for assembly of manhole assembly 300. Assembly of manhole assembly 300 may be complete when each of the clip bosses 225 of two aligned longitudinal manhole segments 100 are connected by a clip 310.
[0056] FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B depict an alternative embodiment of manhole assembly 300 in which longitudinal manhole segments 100 are connected by one or more hinge pins 510. As depicted in FIG. 5A, manhole assembly 300 may comprise three interconnected longitudinal manhole segments 100. In other embodiments, manhole assembly 300 may comprise more or fewer interconnected longitudinal manhole segments 100. As depicted in FIG. 5A, each longitudinal manhole segment 100 may be connected at a joint 305. One or more hinge pins 510 may then be installed over the edges of the interconnected longitudinal manhole segments 100 at joint 305, as disclosed below with reference to FIG. 5B. In some embodiments, manhole assembly 300 may further comprise a gasket (not shown) between each joint 305. Gaskets may be made of a rubber or elastomer material and may impede the flow of water out of manhole assembly 300 through joint 305, making manhole assembly 300 watertight. In other embodiments, where resistance to water passage through the joints 305 is not needed, manhole assembly 300 may be assembled without the use of gaskets between each joint 305.
[0057] FIG. 5B depicts an enlarged view of joint 305 between two longitudinal manhole segments 100 connected by a single hinge pin 510. As depicted in FIG. 5B, the edge of each of the interconnected longitudinal manhole segments 100 may comprise a plurality of hinges 505. The hinges 505 of each longitudinal manhole segment 100 may be spaced periodically along the length of the edge of longitudinal manhole segment 100 such that a continuous hinge is created when two longitudinal manhole segments 100 are interconnected. Once the hinges 505 of each of the interconnected longitudinal manhole segments 100 are aligned, a hinge pin 510 may be inserted through the center of hinges 505. Hinge pin 510 may secure the connection between two longitudinal manhole segments 100. In other embodiments, a plurality of shorter hinge pins 510 (not shown) may be inserted through the center of hinges 505.
[0058] FIG. 6A depicts an alternative embodiment of manhole assembly 300. In such an embodiment, as depicted in FIG. 6A, three longitudinal manhole segments 100 may be connected by living hinges 605. In other embodiments, more or fewer longitudinal manhole segments 100 may be used to form manhole assembly 300. As depicted in FIG. 6A, manhole assembly 300 may comprise two sets of living hinges 605 between the three longitudinal manhole segments 100. Living hinges 605 may comprise a flexible hinge made from the same material as the longitudinal manhole segments 100 that are connected by the living hinges 605. For example, living hinges 605 may be integral to the connected longitudinal manhole segments 100. The two disconnected longitudinal manhole segments 100 may further comprise a free edge 610. When disassembled, as depicted in FIG. 6A, manhole assembly 300 may be securely and efficiently stacked with other manhole assemblies during storage and transportation. Manhole assembly 300 may be assembled by joining free edges 610 through rotation of living hinges 605. When free edges 610 are joined, one set of clips 310 (as depicted in FIG. 4B) or a hinge pin 510 (as depicted in FIG. 5B) may be used to secure free edges 610. In such an embodiment, the living hinges 605 of manhole assembly 300 may be sufficient to maintain a connection between the longitudinal manhole segments 100. In other embodiments, a set of clips 310 (as depicted in FIG. 4B) or a hinge pin 510 (as depicted in FIG. 5B) may be used to secure both free edges 610 and the edges connected by living hinges 605. Securing all three connection points of the longitudinal manhole segments 100 may provide increased stability to manhole assembly 300. In such an embodiment, the living hinges 605 provide a convenient way to keep the longitudinal manhole segments 100 together during shipping and aid in alignment during installation.
[0059] In other embodiments, not depicted, longitudinal manhole segments 100 may be joined at joints 305 to form manhole assembly 300 through use of extrusion welding. In such an embodiment, a welding machine may be used to heat and melt plastic filler material and the connected longitudinal manhole segments 100 at joints 305. The heated filler material may then by extruded onto the heated joints 305 to weld and bond each of the longitudinal manhole segments 100 together at joints 305. Such an embodiment may provide a watertight connection between longitudinal manhole segments 100.
[0060] FIG. 6B and FIG. 6C depict manhole section 600, according to disclosed embodiments. Manhole section 600 may form a portion of a full manhole assembly, as disclosed herein. For example, as disclosed herein, two or more manhole sections 600 may be connected in an assembled configuration to form a manhole assembly. As depicted in FIG. 6B and FIG. 6C, manhole section 600 may comprise two longitudinal manhole segments 100 that may be connected by living hinge 605. In other embodiments, more or fewer longitudinal manhole segments 100 connected by living hinges may be used to form manhole section 600. Living hinge 605 may comprise a flexible hinge made from the same material as the longitudinal manhole segments 100 that are connected by living hinge 605. For example, as depicted in FIG. 6G, living hinge 605 may be integral to the connected longitudinal manhole segments 100 of manhole section 600. In some embodiments, living hinge 605 may extend along the entire length of the connected longitudinal manhole segments 100, which may create a watertight seal without the use of gaskets between longitudinal manhole segments 100. When disassembled, as depicted in FIG. 6B and FIG. 6C, manhole sections 600 may be securely and efficiently stacked during storage and transportation. Further, manhole sections 600 may be shipped in multiple subsections that require smaller pallets for storage and transportation, which may increase storage and freight efficiencies.
[0061] Longitudinal manhole segments 100 of manhole section 600 may further comprise first free edge 615A and second free edge 615B. First free edge 615A may comprise a plurality of dowel holes 620. Dowel holes 620 may comprise openings or holes in first free edge 615A which may accept dowel pins 625 of a second manhole section 600. Second free edge 615B may comprise a plurality of dowel pins 625. Dowel pins 625 may comprise solid, cylindrical rods extending from second free edge 615B. Dowel pins 625 may facilitate alignment of multiple manhole sections 600 when forming a manhole assembly. Interconnecting the dowel pins 625 of second free edge 615B of a first manhole section 600 with the dowel holes 620 of the first free edge 615A of a second manhole section 600 may facilitate alignment and connection of each of the manhole sections 600.
[0062] In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 6B, an inner surface of longitudinal manhole segments 100 may be substantially flat and smooth. In other embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 6C, the inner surface of longitudinal manhole segments 100 may comprise a plurality of horizontal reinforcements 635 and a plurality of vertical reinforcements 630. The plurality of horizontal reinforcements 635 and the plurality of vertical reinforcements 630 may comprise extrusions from the inner face of longitudinal manhole segment 100. The plurality of horizontal reinforcements 635 and the plurality of vertical reinforcements 630 may provide increased strength and structural support to longitudinal manhole segments 100. In some embodiments (not depicted), an inner surface of longitudinal manhole segments 100 may comprise a plurality of horizontal reinforcements 635 but no vertical reinforcements 630. In other embodiments (not depicted), an inner surface of longitudinal manhole segments 100 may comprise a plurality of vertical reinforcements 630 but no horizontal reinforcements 635.
[0063] FIG. 6D depicts manhole section 600 in an assembled configuration. As depicted in FIG. 6D, each of longitudinal manhole segments 100 may be rotated toward each other by living hinge 605 to form a semi-cylindrical configuration. In the assembled configuration, the joint formed between longitudinal manhole segments 100 by living hinge 605 may be watertight without the use of a gasket. As shown in FIG. 6D, manhole section 600 may form half of a full manhole assembly. For example, as depicted in FIG. 6E and FIG. 6F, two manhole sections 600 may be connected to form manhole assembly 650. In other embodiments, more or fewer manhole sections 600 may be connected for form manhole assembly 650. The dowel pins 625 of second free edge 615B of a first manhole section 600 may be interconnected with the dowel holes 620 of the first free edge 615A of a second manhole section 600 to facilitate alignment and connection of each of the manhole sections 600. In some embodiments, manhole assembly 650 may further comprise a gasket (not shown) between the joints formed by the free edges of manhole sections 600. Gaskets may be made of a rubber or elastomer material and may impede the flow of water out of manhole assembly 650, making manhole assembly 650 watertight. In other embodiments, where resistance to water passage is not needed, manhole assembly 650 may be assembled without the use of gaskets.
[0064] FIG. 7 depicts an alternative embodiment of a manhole assembly 700 comprising a plurality of identical ring segments 705A-705F. FIG. 8 depicts a section cut of manhole assembly 700 with manhole base 720 and manhole cover 725 removed. Each identical ring segment 705A-705F may comprise a small end and a large end where a diameter of the small end is less than a diameter of the large end. In some embodiments, the diameter of the small end of ring segment 705A-705F may be about six inches less than the diameter of the large end. Identical ring segments 705A-705F may be compactly and securely stacked together during storage and transportation. As depicted in FIG. 7, the small end of ring segment 705C may be interconnected with the small end of ring segment 705D at an internal joint 715. FIG. 8 depicts internal joints 715 of the interconnected ring segments 705A-705F. The large end of ring segment 705C may be interconnected with the large end of ring segment 705B at external joint 710. Ring segment 705A may be interconnected with a manhole base 720 at an external joint 710 and ring segment 705F may be interconnected with a manhole cover 725 at an external joint 710. Although FIG. 7 depicts a manhole assembly 700 with six ring segments 705A-705F, manhole assembly 700 may comprise one or more ring segments based on the necessary height of the manhole assembly 700 for a given application. In some embodiments, manhole assembly 700 may further comprise a gasket (not shown) between each internal joint 715 and each external joint 710. Gaskets may be made of a rubber or elastomer material and may impede the flow of water out of manhole assembly 700 through internal joints 715 and external joints 710, making manhole assembly 700 watertight. In other embodiments, where resistance to water passage through the internal joints 715 and external joints 710 is not needed, manhole assembly 700 may be assembled without the use of gaskets between each internal joints 715 and external joints 710.
[0065] As depicted in FIG. 7, manhole base 720 may comprise extensions 730. Extensions 730 may comprise circular protrusions from the side of manhole base 720. In some embodiments, manhole base 720 may comprise four extensions 730. In other embodiments, manhole base 720 may comprise more or fewer extensions 730. Extensions 730 may be configured to receive a pipe that may connect a first manhole assembly to a second manhole assembly or that may connect a manhole assembly to any other form of drainage assembly.
[0066] FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C depict the external and internal tabs of a ring segment. FIG. 9A depicts external tabs 900 on ring segment 705A. FIG. 9B depicts external tabs 900 of ring segment 705B interconnected with external tabs 900 of ring segment 705C at external joint 710. FIG. 9C depicts internal tabs 910 of ring segment 705C interconnected with internal tabs 910 of ring segment 710D at internal joint 715.
[0067] As depicted in FIG. 9A, the large end of ring segment 705A may comprise a plurality of external tabs 900 which may be spaced apart between external rims 905. External tabs 900 may extend in the lengthwise direction from the exterior surface of the wall of ring segment 705A. External tab 900 may comprise ends 920 which may be canted to enable easier engagement of the external tabs 900 between two mated ring segments. The ends 920 of a first ring segment may abut the ends of a second ring segment. Each external tab 900 may have a lip 915 which may be configured to latch onto an external rim of a mated like ring segment. The inner edge 925 of a plurality of lips 915 may be disposed around a circle. The outer edges 930 of external rims 905 may be disposed around a circle which may be congruent with the circle of the inner edge 925 of lips 915. The inner edge 925 of lip 915 may be angled with respect to the diametrical plane of the ring segment 705A, such that external tab 900 may be thrust elastically outward when lip 915 of external tab 900 engages with the external rim of a mating ring segment. The outer edge 930 of external rim 905 may be similarly angled with respect to the diametrical plane of ring segment 705A. One or more of external rims 905 may further comprise boss 935 which may be nominally in the center of external rim 905. Boss 935 may be shaped to receive a screw to enable the end of ring segment 705A to be fitted with a screw-attached lid. External tab 900 may comprise a corresponding notch 940 which may be shaped to accommodate boss 935 and screw.
[0068] External joint 710, as depicted in FIG. 9B, may be formed when the plurality of external tabs 900 of one ring segment are engaged with a plurality of external rims 905 of a second ring segment. For example, FIG. 9B depicts ring segment 705B interconnected with ring segment 705C at external joint 710. External tabs 900 of ring segment 705C may engage with the external rims (not shown) of ring segment 705B at external joint 710. Similarly, external tabs 900 of ring segment 705B may engage with the external rims (not shown) of ring segment 705C at external joint 710.
[0069] FIG. 9C depicts internal joint 715 of the small ends of ring segments 705C and 705D. The small end of ring segments 705C and 705D may each comprise internal tabs 910. Internal tabs 910 may extend in the lengthwise direction from the interior surface of the walls of ring segments 705C and 705D. Internal tabs 910 may comprise ends which may correspond to ends 920 as disclosed herein with respect to FIG. 9A. The ends of internal tabs 910 may be canted to enable easier engagement of the internal tabs 910 between two mated ring segments, such as ring segments 705C and 705D. Each internal tab 910 may further comprise a lip which may correspond to lip 915 as disclosed herein with respect to FIG. 9A. The inner edge of the lips of internal tabs 910 may be configured to latch onto an internal rim, such as internal rims 915, of a mated like ring segment. The inner edge of the lips of internal tabs 910 may be disposed around a circle. The outer edges of internal rims 915 may be disposed around a circle which may be congruent with the circle of the inner edge of the lips of internal tabs 910. The inner edge of the lips of internal rims 915 may be angled with respect to the diametrical plane of the ring segment 705C and 705D, such that internal tabs 910 may be thrust elastically outward when the lip of internal tabs 910 engage with the internal rim of the mating ring segment. The outer edge of internal rims 915 may be similarly angled with respect to the diametrical plane of ring segment 705C and 705D. Internal joint 715, as depicted in FIG. 9C, may be formed when the internal tabs 910 of ring segment 705C engage with the internal rims 915 of ring segment 705D and the plurality of internal tabs 910 of ring segment 705D engage with the internal rims 915 of ring segment 705C.
[0070] FIG. 10A depicts manhole cover 725 connected to a ring segment 705F and FIG. 10B depicts manhole base 720 connected to a ring segment 705A. Manhole cover 725 and manhole base 720 may comprise a plurality of external tabs 900. External tabs 900 may be spaced apart between external rims (not shown), which may correspond to external rims 905, as disclosed herein with reference to FIG. 9A. As depicted in FIG. 10A, external joint 710 may be formed when the plurality of external tabs 900 of ring segment 705F engage with a plurality of external rims of manhole cover 725 and the plurality of external tabs 900 of manhole cover 725 engage with a plurality of external rims of ring segment 705F. Similarly, as depicted in FIG. 10B, external joint 710 may be formed when the plurality of external tabs 900 of ring segment 705A engage with a plurality of external rims of manhole base 720 and the plurality of external tabs 900 of manhole base 720 engage with a plurality of external rims of ring segment 705A.
[0071] FIGS. 11A and 11B depict a manhole assembly 700 comprising a plurality of ring segments 705 that are assembled using electrofusion welding. As depicted in FIG. 11A, manhole assembly 700 may comprise a plurality of connected ring segments 705. Although FIG. 11A depicts six interconnected ring segments 705, manhole assembly 700 may comprise more or fewer ring segments 705. The larger ends of ring segments 705 may be connected at external joint 1110 and the smaller ends of ring segments 705 may be connected at internal joint 1105. Manhole assembly 700 may further comprise a manhole cover 725 and a manhole base 720. As depicted in FIG. 11A, manhole base 720 may comprise a plurality of extensions 730, as disclosed herein with respect to FIG. 7. Manhole base 720 may further comprise bench 1130. In some embodiments, bench 1130 may be integral with manhole base 720. In other embodiments, bench 1130 may be placed inside manhole base 720. Bench 1130 may be configured to form a channel within manhole base 720 to direct a flow of water between various inlets and outlets of manhole base 720.
[0072] FIG. 11B depicts an enlarged view of external joint 1110 and internal joint 1105. The small end of ring segment 705 may comprise an internal flange 1120 extending inwardly from the top of the small end of ring segment 705. The large end of ring segment 705, manhole cover 725, and manhole base 720 may comprise an external flange 1115 extending outwardly from the large end of ring segment 705, manhole cover 725, and manhole base 720. The small ends of two ring segments 705 may be joined at internal flanges 1120 to form internal joint 1105. The large ends of two ring segments 705 or the large end of a ring segment 705 and manhole cover 725 or manhole base 720 may be joined at external flanges 1115 to form external joint 1110.
[0073] Internal joint 1105 and external joint 1110 may be formed by electrofusion welding. For example, an electrically heated weld element may be captured within two connecting internal joints 1105 or two connecting external joints 1110. The weld element may comprise a plastic with embedded metal materials that may be heated by electric resistance or electromagnetic induction. The weld element may be positioned on or just beneath the surface of internal flange 1120 and external flange 1115. In some embodiments, the weld element may be molded into the material of internal flange 1120 and external flange 1115. In other embodiments, the weld element may be placed partly or wholly within a groove formed on the surface of internal flange 1120 and external flange 1115. In other embodiments, the weld element may be captured between two connecting internal flanges 1120 or two connecting external flanges 1115 as they are pressed together prior to welding. Such weld element may be heated by electrical or electromagnetic energy sufficient to cause localized melting and fusion of the weld element and the local plastic material of the two connecting internal flanges 1115 or two connecting external flanges 1120. A plurality of ring segments 705 may be connected by applying heat to the internal flanges 1120 and external flanges 1115 to create welded internal joints 1105 and external joints 1110. Welded internal joints 1105 and external joints 1110 may provide a watertight connection between a first ring segment and a second ring segment.
[0074] In other embodiments, not depicted, ring segments 705 may be joined at internal joints 1105 and external joints 1110 to form manhole assembly 700 through use of extrusion welding. In such an embodiment, a welding machine may be used to heat and melt plastic filler material and the connected ring segments 705 at internal joints 1105 and external joints 1110. The heated filler material may then by extruded onto the heated internal joints 1105 and external joints 1110 to weld and bond each of the ring segments 705 together at internal joints 1105 and external joints 1110. Such an embodiment may provide a watertight connection between ring segments 705.
[0075] FIGS. 12A and 12B depict an alternative embodiment of manhole assembly 700. As depicted in FIG. 12A, manhole assembly 700 may comprise a plurality of connected ring segments 705 with a manhole cover 725 and a manhole base 720. Although FIG. 12A depicts six interconnected ring segments 705, manhole assembly 700 may comprise more or fewer ring segments 705. The larger ends of ring segments 705 may be connected at external joint 1210 and the smaller ends of ring segments 705 may be connected at internal joints 1205. Manhole assembly 700 may further comprise a manhole cover 725 and a manhole base 720. As depicted in FIG. 12A, manhole base 720 may comprise a plurality of extensions 730, as disclosed herein with respect to FIG. 7. In some embodiments, manhole assembly 700 may further comprise a gasket (not shown) between each internal joint 1205 and each external joint 1210. Gaskets may be made of a rubber or elastomer material and may impede the flow of water out of manhole assembly 700 through internal joints 1205 and external joints 1210, making manhole assembly 700 watertight. In other embodiments, where resistance to water passage through the internal joints 1205 and external joints 1210 is not needed, manhole assembly 700 may be assembled without the use of gaskets between each internal joints 1205 and external joints 1210.
[0076] FIG. 12B depicts an enlarged view of external joint 1210. The large end of each ring segment 705 may comprise a plurality of external clip bosses 1215. Clip bosses 1215 may extend parallel to the outer surface of ring segment 705 and may extend periodically along the entire perimeter of the large end of ring segment 705. When the large ends of two ring segments 705 are joined, the clip bosses 1215 of each ring segment 705 may be aligned. Clip 1220 may be placed around each of the pairs of aligned clip bosses 1215 to secure two ring segments 705 together. Clip 1220 may comprise notches that may engage with clip bosses 1215 of the ring segments 705 to connect the two ring segments 705 together. The internal joint 1205 of manhole assembly 700 may further comprise clip bosses 1215 that may extend parallel to the inner surface of ring segment 705 and may extend periodically along the entire perimeter of the small end of ring segment 705. When the small ends of two ring segments 705 are joined, the clip bosses 1215 of each ring segment 705 may be aligned. Clip 1220 may be placed around each of the pairs of aligned clip bosses 1215 to secure the small ends of two ring segments 705 together. Clip 1220 may comprise notches that may engage with clip bosses 1215 of the ring segments 705 to connect the small ends of two ring segments 705 together.
[0077] The foregoing description has been presented for purposes of illustration. It is not exhaustive and is not limited to precise forms or embodiments disclosed. Modifications and adaptations of the embodiments will be apparent from consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosed embodiments. For example, while certain components have been described as being coupled to one another, such components may be integrated with one another or distributed in any suitable fashion.
[0078] Moreover, while illustrative embodiments have been described herein, the scope includes any and all embodiments having equivalent elements, modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of aspects across various embodiments), adaptations and/or alterations based on the present disclosure. The elements in the claims are to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims and not limited to examples described in the present specification or during the prosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed as nonexclusive. Further, the steps of the disclosed methods can be modified in any manner, including reordering steps and/or inserting or deleting steps.
[0079] The features and advantages of the disclosure are apparent from the detailed specification, and thus, it is intended that the appended claims cover all systems and methods falling within the true spirit and scope of the disclosure. As used herein, the indefinite articles a and an mean one or more. Similarly, the use of a plural term does not necessarily denote a plurality unless it is unambiguous in the given context. Words such as and or or mean and/or unless specifically directed otherwise. Further, since numerous modifications and variations will readily occur from studying the present disclosure, it is not desired to limit the disclosure to the exact construction and operation illustrated and described, and, accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the disclosure.
[0080] Other embodiments will be apparent from consideration of the specification and practice of the embodiments disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as example only, with a true scope and spirit of the disclosed embodiments being indicated by the following claims.
[0081] Embodiments of the present disclosure may further be described with respect to the following clauses:
Clause 1. A manhole assembly comprising: [0082] a plurality of interconnected longitudinal manhole segments, wherein each of the plurality of longitudinal manhole segments comprise: [0083] a first edge comprising a plurality of dowel pins; [0084] a second edge comprising a plurality of dowel holes; [0085] a curved wall extending between the first edge and the second edge; and [0086] a plurality of clip bosses extending periodically along the first edge and the second edge.
Clause 2. The manhole assembly of clause 1, wherein an inner surface of the curved wall comprises a plurality of vertical reinforcements and a plurality of horizontal reinforcements.
Clause 3. The manhole assembly of clause 1, wherein the manhole assembly further comprises a gasket between each of the plurality of longitudinal manhole segments.
Clause 4. The manhole assembly of clause 1, wherein the plurality of clip bosses extend parallel to an outer surface of the curved wall.
Clause 5. The manhole assembly of clause 1, wherein the plurality of interconnected longitudinal manhole segments comprises three longitudinal manhole segments.
Clause 6. The manhole assembly of clause 1, wherein the plurality of clip bosses of a first of the plurality of longitudinal manhole segments are aligned with the plurality of clip bosses of a second of the plurality of longitudinal manhole segments.
Clause 7. The manhole assembly of clause 6, wherein the plurality of clip bosses of the first of the plurality of longitudinal manhole segments are connected with the plurality of clip bosses of the second of the plurality of longitudinal manhole segments using at least one clip.
Clause 8. The manhole assembly of clause 7, wherein the at least one clip comprises notches configured to engage with the plurality of clip bosses of the first of the plurality of longitudinal manhole segments and the plurality of clip bosses of the second of the plurality of longitudinal manhole segments.
Clause 9. The manhole assembly of clause 1, wherein a diameter of the manhole assembly is 48 inches.
Clause 10. A manhole assembly comprising: [0087] a plurality of interconnected longitudinal manhole segments, wherein each of the plurality of longitudinal manhole segments comprise: [0088] a first edge comprising a plurality of dowel pins; [0089] a second edge comprising a plurality of dowel holes; [0090] a curved wall extending between the first edge and the second edge; and [0091] a plurality of hinges extending periodically along the first edge and the second edge.
Clause 11. The manhole assembly of clause 10, wherein the manhole assembly further comprises a gasket between each of the plurality of longitudinal manhole segments.
Clause 12. The manhole assembly of clause 10, wherein an inner surface of the curved wall comprises a plurality of vertical reinforcements and a plurality of horizontal reinforcements.
Clause 13. The manhole assembly of clause 10, wherein the plurality of interconnected longitudinal manhole segments comprises three longitudinal manhole segments.
Clause 14. The manhole assembly of clause 10, wherein the plurality of hinges of a first of the plurality of longitudinal manhole segments are aligned with the plurality of hinges of a second of the plurality of longitudinal manhole segments.
Clause 15. The manhole assembly of clause 14, wherein the plurality of hinges of the first of the plurality of longitudinal manhole segments are connected with the plurality of hinges of the second of the plurality of longitudinal manhole segments using at least one hinge pin.
Clause 16. The manhole assembly of clause 15, wherein the at least one hinge pin is placed through the connected plurality of hinges.
Clause 17. The manhole assembly of clause 10, wherein a diameter of the manhole assembly is 48 inches.
Clause 18. The manhole assembly of clause 10, wherein the plurality of longitudinal manhole segments are connected by living hinges.
Clause 19. The manhole assembly of clause 18, wherein the living hinges are integral to the plurality of longitudinal manhole segments.
Clause 20. The manhole assembly of clause 18, wherein a plurality of hinge pins are installed adjacent to the living hinges.
Clause 21. A manhole assembly comprising: [0092] a plurality of interconnected ring segments, wherein the plurality of interconnected ring segments comprise: [0093] a large end having a first plurality of external tabs spaced between a first plurality of external rims; and [0094] a small end having a plurality of internal tabs spaced between a plurality of internal rims; [0095] a manhole base having a second plurality of external tabs spaced between a second plurality of external rims; and [0096] a manhole cover having a third plurality of external tabs spaced between a third plurality of external rims.
Clause 22. The manhole assembly of clause 21, wherein a diameter of the small end is less than a diameter of the large end.
Clause 23. The manhole assembly of clause 21, wherein the first plurality of external tabs, the second plurality of external tabs, and the third plurality of external tabs extend in a lengthwise direction from an exterior surface of the ring segment, an exterior surface of the manhole base, and an exterior surface of the manhole cover.
Clause 24. The manhole assembly of clause 21, wherein the plurality of internal tabs extend in a lengthwise direction from an interior surface of a wall of the ring segment.
Clause 25. The manhole assembly of clause 21, comprising at least one internal joint between a small end of a first of the plurality of interconnected ring segments and a small end of a second of the plurality of ring segments.
Clause 26. The manhole assembly of clause 21, comprising at least one external joint between a large end of a first of the plurality of ring segments and a large end of a second of the plurality of ring segments.
Clause 27. The manhole assembly of clause 21, wherein each of the first plurality of external tabs, the second plurality of external tabs, the third plurality of external tabs, and the plurality of internal tabs comprise angled ends.
Clause 28. The manhole assembly of clause 21, wherein each of the first plurality of external rims, the second plurality of external rims, and the third plurality of external rims has a boss shaped to receive a screw.
Clause 29. The manhole assembly of clause 21, wherein each of the plurality of internal rims has a boss shaped to receive a screw.
Clause 30. The manhole assembly of clause 21, further comprising a gasket between each of the plurality of interconnected ring segments.
Clause 31. A manhole assembly comprising: [0097] a plurality of interconnected ring segments, wherein the plurality of interconnected ring segments comprise: [0098] a large end having a first external flange; and [0099] a small end having an internal flange; [0100] a manhole base having a second external flange; and [0101] a manhole cover having a third external flange.
Clause 32. The manhole assembly of clause 31, wherein the internal flange extends inwardly from the small end of the plurality of ring segments.
Clause 33. The manhole assembly of clause 31, wherein each of the first external flange, the second external flange, and the third external flange extends outwardly from the large end of the plurality of ring segments, the manhole base, and the manhole cover.
Clause 34. The manhole assembly of clause 31, wherein the plurality of interconnected ring segments further comprise a weld element molded into the first external flange and the internal flange.
Clause 35. The manhole assembly of clause 31, wherein the manhole base further comprises a weld element molded into the second external flange.
Clause 36. The manhole assembly of clause 31, wherein the manhole cover further comprises a weld element molded into the third external flange.
Clause 37. The manhole assembly of clause 31, wherein each of the internal flange, the first external flange, the second external flange, and the third external flange further comprises a groove configured to hold a weld element.
Clause 38. A manhole assembly, comprising: [0102] a plurality of interconnected ring segments, wherein each of the plurality of interconnected ring segments comprises: [0103] a large end having a first plurality of external clip bosses; and [0104] a small end having a plurality of internal clip bosses; [0105] a manhole base having a second plurality of clip bosses; and [0106] a manhole cover having a third plurality of external clip bosses.
Clause 39. The manhole assembly of clause 38, wherein each of the first plurality of external clip bosses, the second plurality of clip bosses, and the third plurality of clip bosses extends parallel to an outer surface of the large end, an outer surface of the manhole base, and an outer surface of the manhole cover.
Clause 40. The manhole assembly of clause 38, wherein each of the plurality of internal clip bosses extends parallel to an inner surface of the small end.
Clause 41. The manhole assembly of clause 38, further comprising at least one external joint between a large end of a first of the plurality of interconnected ring segments and a large end of a second of the plurality of interconnected ring segments.
Clause 42. The manhole assembly of clause 38, further comprising at least one internal joint between a small end of a first of the plurality of interconnected ring segments and a small end of a second of the plurality of interconnected ring segments.
Clause 43. The manhole assembly of clause 42, further comprising one or more clip connecting the external joint.
Clause 44. The manhole assembly of clause 43, further comprising one or more clip connecting the internal joint.
Clause 45. The manhole assembly of clause 38, further comprising a gasket between each of the plurality of interconnected ring segments.
