Abstract
The disclosed embodiments include a secondary lid for installation in a riser. The secondary lid may comprise a top configured to cover an opening in the riser, an expandable ring configured to attach to an inner circumference of the riser, and wherein the expandable ring may comprise at least one hinge configured to attach the top to the expandable ring ![text missing or illegible when filed]()
Claims
1. A secondary lid for installation in a riser, the secondary lid comprising: a top configured to cover an opening in the riser; an expandable ring configured to attach to an inner circumference of the riser; and wherein the expandable ring comprises at least one hinge configured to attach the top to the expandable ring.
2. The secondary lid of claim 1, wherein the expandable ring further comprises a ratchet.
3. The secondary lid of claim 2, wherein the ratchet is configured to adjust a circumference of the expandable ring.
4. The secondary lid of claim 1, wherein the expandable ring further comprises a plurality of openings configured to affix the expandable ring to the riser.
5. The secondary lid of claim 1, wherein the top comprises a rib pattern.
6. The secondary lid of claim 1, wherein the top is configured to be lifted upwardly by the at least one hinge.
7. The secondary lid of claim 1, wherein the top further comprises a captive fastener.
8. The secondary lid of claim 1, wherein the captive fastener is permanently affixed to the top.
9. The secondary lid of claim 8, wherein the expandable ring further comprises an opening configured to receive the captive fastener.
10. The secondary lid of claim 1, wherein the top further comprises a handle.
11. A secondary lid for installation in a riser, the secondary lid comprising: a top configured to cover an opening in the riser; an expandable ring configured to abut a horizontal surface of the riser; and wherein the expandable ring comprises at least one hinge configured to attach the top to the expandable ring.
12. The secondary ring of claim 11, wherein the expandable ring is attached to the horizontal surface of the riser.
13. The secondary ring of claim 11, wherein the expandable ring rests on the horizontal surface of the riser.
14. The secondary ring of claim 11, wherein the top comprises a fastener.
15. The secondary ring of claim 14, wherein: a horizontal surface of the expandable ring comprises a groove and an insert located in the groove; and the fastener comprises a threaded body portion configured to threadedly engage with the insert.
16. The secondary lid of claim 15, wherein the insert is configured to slide within the groove.
17. A secondary lid for installation in a riser, the secondary lid comprising: a top configured to cover an opening in the riser; a mounting plug configured to attach to the riser, wherein the mounting plug comprises at least one hinge configured to attach the top to the mounting plug; a captive fastener configured to secure the top to the mounting plug; and a latch configured to secure the top to the mounting plug.
18. The secondary lid of claim 17, wherein the mounting plug comprises a vertical wall extending upwardly from the top and a horizontal extension extending horizontally from the upper edge of the vertical wall.
19. The secondary lid of claim 17, wherein the latch comprises a spring-loaded latch.
20. The secondary lid of claim 17, wherein the top comprises a rib pattern forming a pattern of openings through the top.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] The accompanying drawings constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate several embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosed embodiments.
[0014] FIG. 1 depicts a secondary lid with a hinged top in a closed position, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0015] FIG. 2A depicts a section cut of a secondary lid installed within a riser, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0016] FIG. 2B depicts an enlarged view of a lid snap connection of a secondary lid, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0017] FIG. 3 depicts a secondary lid with a hinged top in an open position, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0018] FIG. 4 depicts a secondary lid with a rotating lid portion in an open position, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0019] FIG. 5 depicts a secondary lid with a rotating lid portion in a closed position, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0020] FIG. 6 depicts a secondary lid with an expandable ring and a hinged top, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0021] FIG. 7A depicts a secondary lid with an expandable ring and a hinged top in a closed position installed within a riser system, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0022] FIG. 7B depicts a secondary lid with an expandable ring and a hinged top in an open position installed within a riser system, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0023] FIG. 7C depicts a secondary lid with an expandable ring and a hinged top installed within a riser system, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0024] FIG. 7D depicts a section cut of the secondary lid and riser system of FIG. 7C, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0025] FIG. 7E depicts a secondary lid with an expandable ring and hinged top installed within a pipe, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0026] FIG. 7F depicts a section cut of the secondary lid and pipe of FIG. 7E, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0027] FIG. 7G depicts a secondary lid with an expandable ring and hinged top installed within a pipe, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0028] FIG. 7H depicts a section cut of the secondary lid and pipe of FIG. 7G, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0029] FIG. 8A depicts a section cut of a secondary lid installed within a riser system, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0030] FIG. 8B depicts an enlarged section cut of a fastener of a secondary lid installed within a riser system, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0031] FIG. 9A depicts an enlarged section cut of a fastener of a secondary lid installed within a riser system, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0032] FIG. 9B depicts a section cut of a fastener and an expandable ring, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0033] FIG. 10 depicts a section cut of a secondary lid attached to a mounting plug, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0034] FIG. 11 depicts a section cut of a secondary lid and mounting plug installed within a wide end of a riser system, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0035] FIG. 12 depicts a section cut of a secondary lid and mounting plug installed within a narrow end of the riser system of FIG. 2, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0036] FIG. 13 depicts a section cut of a secondary lid and mounting plug installed within a riser system, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0037] FIG. 14 depicts a section cut of a secondary lid and mounting plug installed within a dual wall pipe, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0038] FIG. 15 depicts a section cut of a secondary lid and mounting plug installed within a pipe, according to disclosed embodiments.
[0039] FIG. 16 depicts a section cut of a secondary lid and mounting plug with a primary lid affixed to the mounting plug, according to disclosed embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0040] 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.
[0041] The disclosed embodiments improve deficiencies in existing secondary lids for riser systems by providing a secondary lid that does not need to be removed from the riser to allow access to the riser. The disclosed embodiments provide secondary lids that may cover a riser opening to prevent unauthorized access to the riser and the tank. However, when a contractor needs to access the riser and the tank, the disclosed embodiments provide a secondary lid that does not need to be fully removed from the riser. Further, the disclosed embodiments provide a secondary lid that does not require tools to open or securely close. The disclosed embodiments also provide a secondary lid that includes an expandable ring, which may allow the secondary lid to be installed in a variety of riser systems with varying diameters. Additional disclosed embodiments also provide a secondary lid with a mounting plug that may allow the secondary lid to be installed in pipes and riser systems with a variety of diameters. The disclosed embodiments may further provide a secondary lid system that may be retrofitted to the top of an existing riser system without any modification to the riser system itself.
[0042] FIG. 1 depicts a secondary lid system 100 with a hinged top 102 in a closed position. Secondary lid system 100 may be installed within a riser 108. Riser 108 may comprise a cylindrical section that may be connected to a septic tank or other water storage tank installed below grade. Riser 108 may extend upwardly from an opening in a top portion of such a tank to allow access to the below-grade tank for maintenance, cleaning, or inspection. Secondary lid system 100 may be installed within the inner circumference of riser 108 by screws or other fasteners. After secondary lid system 100 has been installed within riser 108, top 102 may be rotated upwardly or downwardly to open and close, which may allow or prevent access to riser 108.
[0043] Secondary lid system 100 may comprise a top 102, hinges 104, and lid snap connection 106. Top 102 may comprise a solid cover that may prevent access to riser 108 when top 102 is in a closed position, as depicted in FIG. 1. In other embodiments, top 102 may include a rib pattern, such as a rib pattern as depicted in FIG. 6. The rib pattern may comprise a plurality of openings through top 102 that may allow a person to see through top 102 to view the contents of the tank below. The rib pattern may provide openings through top 102 for viewing of the tank below but may still cover the opening of riser 108 to prevent a person or other large objects from entering riser 108. The size and shape of top 102 may correspond to the size and shape of riser 108, such that top 102 may extend over substantially the entire opening of riser 108. In some embodiments top 102 may extend over the entire opening of riser 108, while in other embodiments top 102 may extend over some other portion of the opening of riser 108, such as, for example, approximately , , , , or of the opening of riser 108. As depicted in FIG. 1, secondary lid system 100 may further comprise two hinges 104. Hinges 104 may be configured to allow top 102 to rotate upwardly to provide open access to riser 108. Although FIG. 1 depicts secondary lid system 100 with two hinges 104, secondary lid system 100 may include more or fewer hinges 104. Top 102 may be secured in a closed position by lid snap connection 106. Lid snap connection 106 may hold top 102 in a closed position without the use of tools. Lid snap connection 106 may also be disengaged to open top 102 without the use of tools.
[0044] FIG. 2A depicts a section cut, at cut line A-A as depicted in FIG. 1, of secondary lid system 100 installed within riser 108. As depicted in FIG. 2A, secondary lid system 100 may include a hinge 104. Hinge 104 may be connected to an inner circumference of riser 108 using screws or other fastener methods. Hinge 104 may comprise a hinge pin 201 which may provide a rotating connection between hinge 104 and top 102. Hinge pin 201 may rotate about a rotational axis, which may be in the horizontal plane, to allow top 102 to open or close.
[0045] FIG. 2B depicts an enlarged view of lid snap connection 106 at location B as depicted in FIG. 2A. Lid snap connection 106 may be configured to secure top 102 in a closed position without the use of tools. Lid snap connection 106 may include lid canted surface 203. Lid canted surface 203 may extend outwardly at an angle from a surface of lid snap connection 106. Lid snap connection 106 of top 102 may interconnect with outer snap connection 205. Outer snap connection 205 may be fastened or otherwise connected to an inner surface of riser 108. Outer snap connection 205 may include outer canted surface 207. Outer canted surface 207 may extend outwardly at an angle from a surface of outer snap connection 205. Lid canted surface 203 of lid snap connection 106 may interconnect with outer canted surface 207 of outer snap connection 205 to secure top 102 in a closed position without the use of tools. For example, to engage lid snap connection 106 and outer snap connection 205, lid snap connection 106 may deflect inwardly as it is pressed or pushed downwardly. Lid snap connection 106 may then return to its original form when lid canted surface 203 is engaged below outer canted surface 207. Lid canted surface 203 may then engage with outer canted surface 207 and prevent top 102 from opening. Lid snap connection 106 may be disengaged from outer snap connection 205 to open top 102 by deflecting lid snap connection 106 inwardly and upwardly such that lid canted surface 203 disengages from below outer canted surface 207. As depicted in FIG. 2B, top 102 may further include gap 209 adjacent to lid snap connection 106. Gap 209 may allow for flexibility of top 102 near lid snap connection 106 which may facilitate deflection of lid snap connection 106 as lid snap connection 106 engages or disengages with outer snap connection 205.
[0046] In other embodiments, not depicted in FIG. 2B, top 102 may comprise a lid connection configured to secure top 102 in a closed position. The lid connection may be configured to engage with an outer connection. The outer connection may be fastened or otherwise connected to an inner surface of riser 108. The lid connection may be configured to connect with outer connection by at least one screw when top 102 is in a closed position.
[0047] FIG. 3 depicts a section cut of secondary lid system 100 with top 102 in an open position. Top 102 may be rotated upwardly at hinge 104. Although not depicted in FIG. 3, hinge 104 may further include at least one detent. The at least one detent of hinge 104 may keep top 102 in a fully open position (90-degree rotation) and may prevent top 102 from falling downwardly into a closed position. The at least one detent of hinge 104 may be overcome with slight pressure to close top 102. The open configuration of secondary lid system 100 may prevent a primary lid from being installed over riser 108 when secondary lid system 100 is in an open position. Because top 102 extends vertically upwardly when in an open configuration, the primary lid may not be accidentally installed without closing and securing secondary top 102.
[0048] FIG. 4 depicts secondary lid system 400 in an open position and FIG. 5 depicts secondary lid system 400 in a closed position. Secondary lid system 400 may be installed within a riser, such as riser 108 as depicted in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2A, to allow or prevent access to riser 108. Secondary lid system 400 may include a stationary lid portion 411 and a rotating lid portion 403. A size and shape of stationary lid portion 411 may correspond to a size and shape of a riser, such as riser 108, such that stationary lid portion 411 may be installed within the riser. Stationary lid portion 411 may be fastened to the interior circumference of a riser, such as riser 108, with screws or other fastening methods. Stationary lid portion 411 may include opening 413. In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 4, opening 413 may comprise a semi-circular opening through stationary lid portion 411. In other embodiments, not depicted in FIG. 4, opening 413 may comprise an opening of any shape through stationary lid portion 411. In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 4, stationary lid portion 411 may include one opening 413. In other embodiments, not depicted in FIG. 4, stationary lid portion 411 may include more than one opening. In such embodiments, rotating lid portion 403 may cover all of the one or more openings when rotating lid portion 403 is in a closed position. Opening 413 may allow access to the riser and the below-grade septic tank or water storage tank when secondary lid system 400 is in an open position, as depicted in FIG. 4.
[0049] Rotating lid portion 403 may comprise a semi-circular cover that may extend over opening 413 when secondary lid system 400 is in a closed position, as depicted in FIG. 5. In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, rotating lid portion 403 may comprise a solid cover that may completely cover opening 413. In other embodiments, rotating lid portion 403 may include a rib pattern (not shown) that may comprise openings through rotating lid portion 403. In such embodiments, the rib pattern may allow a person to see through rotating lid portion 403 without opening secondary lid system 400. The rib pattern may further prevent a person from entering opening 413 without opening secondary lid system 400. Rotating lid portion 403 may rotate around rotation pin 415. Rotation pin 415 may allow rotating lid portion 403 to rotate around a rotation axis. The rotation axis of rotating lid portion 403 may be a vertical axis.
[0050] Although not depicted in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, rotating lid portion 403 and stationary lid portion 411 may each include a snap connection, similar to lid snap connection 106 and outer snap connection 205, as disclosed herein with respect to FIG. 2B. The snap connections of rotating lid portion 403 and stationary lid portion 411 may secure rotating lid portion 403 in the closed position depicted in FIG. 5. The snap connections may allow rotating lid portion 403 to be secured in a closed position without the use of tools and may allow the rotating lid portion 403 to be opened without the use of tools.
[0051] FIG. 6 depicts a secondary lid system 600 with expandable ring 640 and top 602. Expandable ring 640 may comprise a generally circular ring that may facilitate connection of secondary lid system 600 to a riser system of a below-grade water storage tank. Expandable ring 640 may form opening 613, and when top 602 is in an open position a user may access a below-grade water storage system through opening 613. Expandable ring 640 may include vertical surface 650 and horizontal surface 655. Vertical surface 650 may be configured to abut an inner wall of a riser system. Vertical surface 650 may include holes 653A. Holes 653A may comprise openings in vertical surface 650, which may be configured to receive fasteners to affix vertical surface 650 of expandable ring 640 to an inner surface of a riser system. Horizontal surface 655 may be configured to abut a horizontal surface of a riser system. Horizontal surface 655 may include holes 653B, which may be configured to receive fasteners to affix horizontal surface 655 of expandable ring 640 to the horizontal surface of the riser system.
[0052] Expandable ring 640 may further include ratchet 617. Ratchet 617 may include a bar with a set of angled teeth in which a cog or tooth engages to allow an expansion of the circumference of expandable ring 640. For example, ratchet 617 may allow expandable ring 640 to expand so that the diameter of expandable ring 640 may correspond to the diameter of the riser in which secondary lid system 600 is being installed. Accordingly, ratchet 617 may facilitate expansion of the circumference of expandable ring 640 so that expandable ring 640 may fit riser systems of varying diameters.
[0053] Expandable ring 640 may further include hinges 604A and 604B. Top 602 may be affixed to hinges 604A and 604B. Hinges 604A and 604B may facilitate the upward and downward rotation of lid 602. For example, top 602 may be rotated upwardly through use of hinges 604A and 604B, such that opening 613 can be accessed by a user without having to physically remove top 602 from expandable ring 640 or the riser in which expandable ring 640 is installed. This may increase safety in the riser system because it may prevent a user from forgetting to reinstall top 602 after accessing opening 613. Although FIG. 6 depicts top 602 connected to expandable ring 640 with two hinges 604A and 604B, expandable ring 640 may include more or fewer hinges.
[0054] Top 602 may comprise a cover that may prevent access to a riser system of a below-grade water storage tank when top 602 is in a closed position, as depicted in FIG. 6. As discussed above, top 602 may allow a user of secondary lid system 600 to open top 602 to access the riser system below without having to physically remove any of the components of secondary lid system 600 from within the riser.
[0055] In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 6, top 602 may include rib pattern 635, fins 665, and handle 630. Rib pattern 635 may include a pattern of openings 670 through top 602 that may allow a person to see through rib pattern 635 to view the contents of the riser system and tank below. While rib pattern 635 may provide openings 670 through top 602 for viewing the tank below, top 602 may still cover the opening of the riser to prevent a person or large object from entering the riser. The pattern of openings 670 may further provide structural strength to top 602 to prevent a person or large object from entering opening 613 when top 602 is in a closed position. The pattern of openings 670 may further create a lightweight top 602 that may be easily installed and operated. Top 602 may further include fins 665 on either side of rib pattern 635. Fins 665 may provide additional structural strength and support to top 602, which may prevent a person or large object from entering opening 613 when top 602 is in a closed position. In some embodiments, the size and shape of lid 602 may correspond to the size and shape of the riser, such that top 602 may extend over the entire opening of riser 620. In other embodiments (not shown), top 602 may extend over a portion of the opening of the riser such as, for example, approximately , , , , or of the opening of the riser. Top 602 may also include handle 630, which may allow a user to pull Top 602 upward to provide open access to a riser below. As depicted in FIG. 6, top 602 may be connected to expandable ring 640 by hinges 604A and 604B. Hinges 604A and 604B may be configured to allow top 602 to rotate upwardly to provide open access to a riser or downwardly to prevent access to a riser.
[0056] Top 602 may be secured in a closed position by fastener 660. Fastener 660 may comprise a captive fastener that may be permanently affixed to top 602. Fastener 660 may remain attached to top 602 and may not be removable from top 602 even when top 602 is in an opened position. Because fastener 660 may not be removed from top 602, fastener 660 may not fall out or become lost when top 602 is opened to access opening 613. Fastener 660 may lock top 602 in a closed position, as disclosed herein with respect to FIGS. 8A and 8B.
[0057] FIG. 7A depicts secondary lid system 600 installed within riser 708A. Riser 708A may comprise a cylindrical section that may be connected to a septic tank or other water storage tank installed below grade. Riser 708A may extend upwardly from an opening in a top portion of such a tank to allow access to the below-grade tank for maintenance, cleaning, or inspection. Expandable ring 640 may be sized to fit within the inner diameter of riser 708A using ratchet 617, as depicted in FIG. 6 (not shown in FIG. 7A). Accordingly, the size of secondary lid system 600 may be adjustable to be installed within a variety of risers, such as riser 708A, with varying diameters. Expandable ring 640 may be installed within the inner circumference of riser 708A by screws or other fasteners. For example, screws or other fasteners may be placed in holes 653A, as depicted in FIG. 6 (not show in FIG. 7A), and/or holes 653B. As depicted in FIG. 7B, after secondary lid system 600 has been installed within riser 708A, top 602 may be lifted upwardly to open top 602 and allow access to opening 613.
[0058] FIG. 7C depicts secondary lid system 600 installed within riser 708B and FIG. 7D depicts a section cut of secondary lid system 600 installed within riser 708B. Riser 708B may comprise a cylindrical section that may be connected to a septic tank or other water storage tank installed below grade. Riser 708B may extend upwardly from an opening in a top portion of such a tank to allow access to the below-grade tank for maintenance, cleaning, or inspection. Expandable ring 640 may be sized to fit within the inner diameter of riser 708B using ratchet 617, as depicted in FIG. 6 (not shown in FIG. 7C). Accordingly, the size of secondary lid system 600 may be adjustable to be installed within a variety of risers, such as riser 708B, with varying diameters. Expandable ring 640 may be installed within the inner circumference of riser 708B by screws or other fasteners. For example, screws or other fasteners may be placed in holes 653A, as depicted in FIG. 6 (not show in FIG. 7C), and/or holes 653B.
[0059] FIG. 7E depicts secondary lid system 600 installed within pipe 708C and FIG. 7F depicts a section cut of secondary lid system 600 installed within pipe 708C. Pipe 708C may comprise a cylindrical pipe that may be connected to a septic tank or other water storage tank installed below grade. Pipe 708C may extend upwardly from an opening in a top portion of such a tank to allow access to the below-grade tank for maintenance, cleaning, or inspection. Expandable ring 640 may be sized to fit within the inner diameter of pipe 708C using ratchet 617, as depicted in FIG. 6 (not shown in FIG. 7E). Accordingly, the size of secondary lid system 600 may be adjustable to be installed within a variety of risers or pipes, such as pipe 708C, with varying diameters. Expandable ring 640 may be installed within the inner circumference of pipe 708C by screws or other fasteners. For example, screws or other fasteners may be placed in holes 653A, as depicted in FIG. 6 (not show in FIG. 7E), and/or holes 653B.
[0060] FIG. 7G depicts secondary lid system 600 installed within pipe 708D and FIG. 7H depicts a section cut of secondary lid system 600 installed within pipe 708D. Pipe 708D may comprise a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) corrugated cylindrical pipe that may be connected to a septic tank or other water storage tank installed below grade. Pipe 708D may extend upwardly from an opening in a top portion of such a tank to allow access to the below-grade tank for maintenance, cleaning, or inspection. Expandable ring 640 may be sized to fit within the inner diameter of pipe 708D using ratchet 617, as depicted in FIG. 6 (not shown in FIG. 7G). Accordingly, the size of secondary lid system 600 may be adjustable to be installed within a variety of risers or pipes, such as pipe 708D, with varying diameters. Expandable ring 640 may be installed within the inner circumference of pipe 708D by screws or other fasteners. For example, screws or other fasteners may be placed in holes 653A, as depicted in FIG. 6 (not show in FIG. 7G), and/or holes 653B
[0061] FIG. 8A depicts a section cut of secondary lid system 600 installed within riser 708A and FIG. 8B depicts an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 8A. As depicted in FIGS. 8A and 8B, top 602 may comprise fastener 660. Fastener 660 may comprise a captive fastener that may be permanently attached to top 602. For example, fastener 660 may be permanently installed within opening 861 of top 602. In some embodiments, fastener 660 may include an unthreaded body portion 863. Unthreaded body portion 863 may not include threads and may comprise a first diameter. The first diameter of unthreaded body portion 863 of fastener 660 may be less than a diameter of opening 861. The smaller diameter of unthreaded body portion 863 may allow fastener 660 to be rotated within opening 861 to facilitate the fastening and unfastening of fastener 660. Fastener 660 may further include threaded body portion 864, which may include threads that may be configured to engage with internal threads within hole 862 of expandable ring 640. Threaded body portion 864 may include a second diameter, which may be greater than the first diameter of unthreaded body portion 863 and opening 861 of top 602. The larger second diameter of threaded body portion 864 may prevent fastener 660 from being completely removed through opening 861 of top 602, and which may maintain fastener 660 permanently within top 602. When top 602 is in a closed configuration, as depicted in FIGS. 8A and 8B, threaded body portion 864 of fastener 660 may align with and engage internal threads of hole 862 of expandable ring 640. When disengaging top 602 from expandable ring 640 to open top 602, a user may rotate fastener 660 to disengage threaded body portion 864 from the internal threads of hole 862. By fastening top 602 to expandable ring 640 through fastener 660, secondary lid system 600 may be secured in a closed configuration, which may prevent a person or object from accidentally opening top 602.
[0062] FIG. 9A depicts an enlarged section cut of top 602 secured to expandable ring 640 by fastener 660. As depicted in FIG. 9A, hole 862 of expandable ring 640 may include insert 919. Insert 919 may comprise a threaded female insert. When top 602 is in a closed position, threaded body portion 864 of fastener 660 may threadedly engage with insert 919 to secure top 602 to expandable ring 640. The smaller diameter of unthreaded body portion 863 may allow fastener 660 to be rotated within opening 861 of top 602 to facilitate the fastening and unfastening of fastener 660.
[0063] FIG. 9B depicts an enlarged view of expandable ring 640 and fastener 660, with top 602 removed for clarity. As depicted in FIG. 9B, horizontal surface 655 of expandable ring 640 may include groove 921. Groove 921 may comprise a longitudinal opening through horizontal surface 655. The size of groove 921 may correspond to the size of insert 919, such that insert 919 may slide in groove 921. For example, as the diameter of expandable ring 640 is expanded or reduced, insert 919 may be configured to slide within groove 921 so that fastener 660 can engage with insert 919 within the varying diameters of expandable ring 640. For example, in some embodiments, a diameter of expandable ring 640 may be adjusted from a range of about 26 inches to about 23 inches. In other embodiments, the diameter of expandable ring 640 may be adjusted to be larger than 26 inches or smaller than 23 inches. Insert 919 may be a non-cylindrical shape, such that insert 919 may only slide linearly along groove 921 and may not rotate within groove 921.
[0064] To install expandable ring 640 within a riser, such as riser 708A as depicted in FIG. 7A, an installer may engage ratchet 617, as depicted in FIG. 6, to reduce the diameter of expandable ring 640 so that expandable ring 640 may be placed within the riser. When engaging ratchet 617 to reduce the diameter of expandable ring 640, a lid, such as top 602, may be in a closed position and fastened to expandable ring 640 through fastener 660. As the diameter of expandable ring 640 is reduced, threaded insert 919 may slide within groove 921. An installer may then insert expandable ring 640 into the riser and engage ratchet 617 to expand the diameter of expandable ring 640 until expandable ring 640 is securely abutting the inner wall of the riser. As the installer expands the diameter of expandable ring 640, insert 919 may further slide within groove 921. The installer may then use screws or other means of fastening to permanently affix expandable ring 640 to the walls of the riser. The installer may then disengage fastener 660 from insert 919 and open the lid, as needed, and insert 919 may stay in the proper location along groove 921 based on the friction fit between insert 919 and groove 921.
[0065] FIG. 10 depicts a section cut of secondary lid system 1000 with top 1002 and mounting plug 1023. Top 1002 may comprise a cover that may prevent access to a riser system of a below-grade water storage tank when top 1002 is in a closed position, as depicted in FIG. 10. Top 1002 may allow a user of secondary lid system 1000 to open top 1002 to access the riser system below without having to physically remove any of the components of secondary lid system 1000 from within the riser.
[0066] In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 10, top 1002 may include a rib pattern 1035 and a handle 1030. The rib pattern 1035 may include a pattern of openings 1070 through top 1002 that may allow a person to see through rib pattern 1035 to view the contents of the riser system and tank below. While the rib pattern 1035 may provide openings 1070 through top 1002 for viewing the tank below, top 1002 may still cover the opening of the riser to prevent a person or large object from entering the riser. The pattern of openings 1070 may further provide structural strength to lid 1002 to prevent a person or large object from entering opening when top 1002 is in a closed position. The pattern of openings 1070 may further create a lightweight top 1002 that may be easily installed and operated. Top 1002 may further include fins (not depicted in FIG. 10) on either side of the rib pattern 1035. In some embodiments, the fins may correspond to fins 665 as disclosed herein with respect to FIG. 6. Fins may provide additional structural strength and support to top 1002, which may prevent a person or large object from entering the opening when top 1002 is in a closed position. In some embodiments, the size and shape of top 1002 may correspond to the size and shape of a riser or pipe, such that top 1002 may extend over the entire opening of a riser or pipe. In other embodiments (not shown), top 1002 may extend over a portion of the opening of the riser such as, for example, approximately , , , , or of the opening of the riser or pipe. Top 1002 may also include a handle 1030, which may allow a user to pull top 1002 upward to provide open access to a riser below.
[0067] As depicted in FIG. 10, top 1002 may be connected to mounting plug 1023 by hinges 1004. The hinges 1004 may be configured to allow top 1002 to rotate upwardly to provide open access to a riser. For example, top 1002 may be rotated upwardly through use of the hinges 1004, such that an opening can be accessed by a user without having to physically remove top 1002 from within the riser or pipe in which secondary lid system 1000 is installed. This may increase safety in the riser system because it may prevent a user from forgetting to reinstall top 1002 after accessing the riser or pipe.
[0068] Mounting plug 1023 may comprise a vertical wall 1073 extending upwardly from top 1002 and a horizontal extension 1075 that may extend from the upper edge of the vertical wall 1073. The horizontal extension 1075 may allow mounting plug 1023 to be permanently attached to a pipe or riser system. The vertical wall 1073 may allow top 1002 to be located within the opening of the pipe or riser system, such that a primary lid, as disclosed herein, may be installed over top 1002. Mounting plug 1023 may be generally circular in shape and may be configured to be installed in risers or pipes of varying diameters and configurations. For example, mounting plug 1023 may include holes 1025 around the horizontal extension 1075 of mounting plug 1023, which may allow mounting plug 1023 to be screwed or otherwise fastened to a riser or pipe system using mounting fastener 1027. In some embodiments, mounting fastener 1027 may comprise a screw or any other fastener that may connect mounting plug 1023 to a riser or pipe system.
[0069] Top 1002 may be secured in a closed position by fastener 1060. Fastener 1060 may comprise a captive fastener that may be permanently affixed to top 1002. Fastener 1060 may remain attached to top 1002 and may not be removable from top 1002 even when top 1002 is in an opened position. Because fastener 1060 may not be removed from top 1002, fastener 1060 may not fall out or become lost when top 1002 is opened to access a riser or pipe. Fastener 1060 may lock top 1002 in a closed position.
[0070] Top 1002 may further include latch 1029. Latch 1029 may comprise a spring-loaded latch. When top 1002 is moved from an open position to a closed position, latch 1029 may automatically engage a notch or other component of secondary lid system 1000 such that latch 1029 locks top 1002 in a closed position. To open latch 1029, and thus top 1002, a substantial amount of force may need to be applied to the spring of latch 1029 to disengage latch 1029 from the notch or other component of the secondary lid system 1000. For example, latch 1029 may require more force to open than a child may be able to apply to latch 1029, which may prevent a child from opening top 1002. Latch 1029 may increase the safety of secondary lid system 1000 because if a contractor forgets to engage fastener 1060 into a locked position when top 1002 is closed, latch 1029 may still prevent a child from opening top 1002.
[0071] FIG. 11 depicts a section cut of mounting plug 1023 and top 1002 installed within riser 1108. Riser 1108 may comprise a cylindrical section that may be connected to a septic tank or other water storage tank installed below grade. Riser 1108 may extend upwardly from an opening in a top portion of such a tank to allow access to the below-grade tank for maintenance, cleaning, or inspection. As depicted in FIG. 11, the horizontal extension 1075 of mounting plug 1023 may be placed in contact with the upper edge of riser 1108. Mounting plug 1023 may be permanently attached to the upper edge of riser 1108 by installing a mounting fastener 1027 through hole 1132 in riser 1108. The vertical wall 1073 of mounting plug 1023 may extend downwardly into the inner circumference of riser 1108, such that top 1002 extends across the opening of riser 1108. Primary lid 1180 may be installed over top 1002 and mounting plug 1023.
[0072] In some embodiments, riser 1108 may include tapered walls that extend between a wider end and a narrower end. FIG. 11 depicts mounting plug 1023 installed to a wider end of riser 1108. FIG. 12 depicts mounting plug 1023 installed to a narrower end of riser 1108. As depicted in FIG. 12, mounting plug 1023 may be permanently attached to the narrower end of riser 1108 by installing mounting fastener 1027 through hole 1132 of riser 1108. Primary lid 1280 may then be installed over top 1002 and mounting plug 1023.
[0073] FIG. 13 depicts a section cut of mounting plug 1023 and top 1002 installed within an alternative riser 1308. Riser 1308 may comprise a cylindrical section that may be connected to a septic tank or other water storage tank installed below grade. Riser 1308 may extend upwardly from an opening in a top portion of such a tank to allow access to the below-grade tank for maintenance, cleaning, or inspection. As depicted in FIG. 13, the horizontal extension 1075 of mounting plug 1023 may be placed in contact with the upper edge of riser 1308. Mounting plug 1023 may be permanently attached to the upper edge of riser 1308 by installing a mounting fastener, such as mounting fastener 1027 as depicted in FIG. 10, through a hole or opening in riser 1308. The vertical wall 1073 of mounting plug 1023 may extend downwardly into the inner circumference of riser 1308, such that top 1002 extends across the opening of riser 1308. Primary lid 1380 may be installed over top 1002 and mounting plug 1023.
[0074] FIG. 14 depicts a section cut of mounting plug 1023 and top 1002 installed within pipe 1408. Pipe 1408 may comprise a corrugated dual wall pipe that may be connected to a septic tank or other water storage tank installed below grade. Pipe 1408 may extend upwardly from an opening in a top portion of such a tank to allow access to the below-grade tank for maintenance, cleaning, or inspection. As depicted in FIG. 14, the horizontal extension 1075 of mounting plug 1023 may be placed in contact with the upper edge of pipe 1408. Mounting plug 1023 may be permanently attached to the upper edge of pipe 1408 by installing a mounting fastener, such as mounting fastener 1027 as depicted in FIG. 10, through a hole or opening in pipe 1408. The vertical wall 1073 of mounting plug 1023 may extend downwardly into the inner circumference of pipe 1408, such that lid 1002 extends across the opening of pipe 1408. Primary lid 1480 may be installed over top 1002 and mounting plug 1023.
[0075] FIG. 15 depicts a section cut of mounting plug 1023 and top 1002 installed within an alternative pipe 1508. Pipe 1508 may comprise a cylindrical pipe that may be connected to a septic tank or other water storage tank installed below grade. Pipe 1508 may extend upwardly from an opening in a top portion of such a tank to allow access to the below-grade tank for maintenance, cleaning, or inspection. As depicted in FIG. 15, the horizontal extension 1075 of mounting plug 1023 may be placed in contact with the upper edge of pipe 1508. Mounting plug 1023 may be permanently attached to the upper edge of pipe 1508 by installing a mounting fastener, such as mounting fastener 1027 as depicted in FIG. 10, through a hole or opening in pipe 1508. The vertical wall 1073 of mounting plug 1023 may extend downwardly into the inner circumference of pipe 1508, such that top 1002 extends across the opening of pipe 1508. Primary lid 1580 may be installed over top 1002 and mounting plug 1023.
[0076] FIG. 16 depicts a section cut of mounting plug 1023, top 1002, and primary lid 1680. Primary lid 1680 may comprise a substantially flat lid that may be attached to the horizontal extension of mounting plug 1023.
[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.
[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. Other embodiments will be apparent from consideration of the specification and practice of the embodiments disclosed herein.
[0079] Embodiments of the present disclosure may further be described with respect to the following clauses: [0080] Clause 1. A secondary lid for installation in a riser, the secondary lid comprising: [0081] a stationary lid portion, wherein the stationary lid portion comprises an opening; and [0082] a rotating lid portion, wherein the rotating lid portion is configured to rotate around a rotation pin. [0083] Clause 2. The secondary lid of clause 1, wherein the stationary lid portion is configured to be attached to an inner circumference of the riser. [0084] Clause 3. The secondary lid of clause 2, wherein the stationary lid portion is attached to the riser with a fastener. [0085] Clause 4. The secondary lid of clause 1, wherein the opening comprises a semi-circular opening. [0086] Clause 5. The secondary lid of clause 1, wherein the rotating lid portion is configured to rotate between an open position and a closed position. [0087] Clause 6. The secondary lid of clause 5, wherein the rotating lid is configured to cover the opening when the rotating lid is in the closed position. [0088] Clause 7. The secondary lid of clause 1, wherein the rotating lid portion comprises a semi-circular cover. [0089] Clause 8. The secondary lid of clause 1, wherein the rotating lid portion comprises a solid cover. [0090] Clause 9. The secondary lid of clause 1, wherein the rotating lid comprises a rib pattern. [0091] Clause 10. The secondary lid of clause 9, wherein the rib pattern comprises openings through the rotating lid portion. [0092] Clause 11. The secondary lid of clause 1, wherein the rotating lid portion and the stationary lid portion each comprise a snap connection. [0093] Clause 12. The secondary lid of clause 11, wherein the snap connection is configured to secure the rotating lid portion to the stationary lid portion. [0094] Clause 13. The secondary lid of clause 11, wherein the snap connection is configured to secure the rotating lid portion in a closed position.
