Field of invention
[0001] The present invention generally relates to a hinge cover assembly, and more particularly
to a hinged cover assembly for an underground installation, which requires supervision
and service, for example manholes, wells for district heating, pump stations or sewage.
Background of the Invention
[0002] It is well known to use a cover assembly for wells and manholes in general. A cover
assembly for a well or a manhole comprises a removable plate forming the lid over
the opening of the well or the manhole. The object of the cover assembly is to prevent
someone from falling in and to keep unauthorised persons out. A cover assembly is
often made out of cast iron. Therefore, it may be quite heavy (it may weigh more than
50 kg).
[0003] In order to prevent unauthorized access to a cover assembly for an underground installation,
a special key is normally required to open the cover assembly. While some cover assembly
types can only be moved by manually handling the cover, other more sophisticated cover
assembly types are rotatably mounted in order to ease the working process when opening
and closing the cover assembly. Moreover, it is well known to apply a lift-assist
mechanism formed as a gas-assisted or spring-assisted cylinder in order to assist
the opening and closing process.
[0004] Since a typical cover assembly is produced by using a casting process, subsequent
processing (e.g. grinding) is often needed. Subsequent processing may both be time
consuming and increase the production costs. Further, the assembling of a prior cover
assembly is often a rather complex process that includes use of screws, nuts or bolts
that have to be tightened.
[0005] Therefore, it would be desirable to have a cover assembly that can be assembled in
an easier and less complex manner. Consequently, it is an object of the present invention
to provide a cover assembly that can be assembled in an easier and less complex manner
than the prior art covers.
[0006] Further, a typical prior art hinged manhole cover assembly is constructed in a manner
in which water and dirt has access to the rotating part of the hinge. This introduces
the risk of corrosion and malfunction of the cover assembly.
[0007] Therefore, it would be beneficial to have a cover assembly in which the rotating
part of the hinge is prevented from being exposed to water and dirt. Accordingly,
it is an object of the present invention to provide a cover assembly in which the
rotating part of the hinge is prevented from being exposed to water and dirt.
Summary of the invention
[0008] The object of the present invention can be achieved by a cover assembly as defined
in claim 1. Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent sub claims, explained
in the following description and illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
[0009] The cover assembly according to the invention is a cover assembly comprising:
- a frame having a peripheral wall defining an access opening;
- a cover rotatably mounted to the frame by means of an attachable mounting assembly
comprising a shaft member rotatably mounted in a hinge member having an enclosing
portion that at least partially encloses the shaft member, wherein the hinge member
is rotatably mounted in a cavity provided in the frame member in such a manner that
the longitudinal axis of the shaft member is fixed in a predefined vertical position
relative to the frame. Hereby, it is possible to provide a cover assembly that can
be assembled in an easier and less complex manner than the prior art covers. Moreover,
the hinge member is automatically provided in a correct position ensuring that the
cover can be opened and closed properly.
[0010] Moreover, it is possible to provide a cover assembly in which the rotating part of
the hinge is prevented from being exposed to water and dirt.
[0011] The cover assembly comprises a frame having a peripheral wall defining an access
opening. The frame may have any suitable shape. The frame may e.g. be basically circular
or rectangular and have an access opening having a basically circular or rectangular
form. The frame may preferably be configured to be attached to the opening of a well
or a manhole. The cover assembly is suitable for being used for underground installations
including wells and manholes.
[0012] The cover assembly comprises a cover rotatably mounted to the frame by means of an
attachable mounting assembly. It is preferred that the cover is rotatably mounted
to the frame by means of an attachable mounting assembly that can be mounted without
using tools for screwing screws, bolts, nuts or the like. Hereby, the complexity and
duration of the mounting process can be reduced. The cover assembly according to the
invention can be produced in cast iron without welding components together. The frame
and the cover can be manufactured by two independent moulding processes. Hereafter,
the parts can be assembled by means of the attachable mounting assembly.
[0013] It is an advantage that the parts do not need to be welded together, since welding
is demanding when it comes to tolerances. Further, the welding process may cause irregularities
that make it difficult or impossible to open or close the cover in a desirable way.
[0014] The mounting assembly comprises a shaft member rotatably mounted in a hinge member
having an enclosing portion that at least partially encloses the shaft member. One
or two brushings enclosing one or more portions of the shaft member may be a part
of the enclosing portion. It may be an advantage that the shaft member is basically
cylindrical and extends horizontally. Hereby, it is possible to provide a desirable
opening and closing of the cover assembly.
[0015] The hinge member is rotatably mounted in a cavity provided in the frame member in
such a manner that the longitudinal axis of the shaft member is fixed in a predefined
vertical position. Hereby, the cavity and the region surrounding the cavity will protect
the hinge member and the shaft member against water and dirt from above and furthermore,
hinge member can easily be provided in the correct position so that the cover can
be opened and closed properly.
[0016] The cover assembly according to the invention comprises an attachable mounting assembly.
Hereby, it is possible to disassemble the cover and provide maintenance or service
when needed.
[0017] In order to ease the opening and closing procedure, it may be advantageous that the
mounting assembly is configured to rotate about a horizontally extending shaft member.
[0018] It may be an advantage that the mounting assembly comprises a first plate member
and a second plate member angled relative to the first plate member. The mounting
assembly may be provided as a one-piece body comprising a single plate member provided
with a bending (e.g. an 80-degree bending).
[0019] It may be advantageous that the enclosing portion is provided at the end area of
one of the plate members. It may be beneficial that the enclosing portion is formed
as a through bore configured to at least partially enclose the shaft member. The enclosing
portion may be completely enclosing, however, as an alternative, the enclosing portion
may partially enclose the shaft member. The enclosing portion may e.g. comprise a
cylindrical portion and/or a semi-cylindrical portion.
[0020] It may be an advantage that the angle between the first plate member and the second
plate member is between 70 and 100 degrees, such as between 80 and 90 degrees. By
providing an angle between the first plate member and the second plate member, it
is possible to ensure that the cover is provided in a predefined and desirable angle
(e.g. 100 degrees) relative to horizontal when the cover is opened to maximum extent.
[0021] By securing that the cover can be opened and maintained in a fixed angle (e.g. 100
degrees) relative to horizontal, the working conditions for service workers can be
improved, since the following closing procedure is eased (the cover does not need
to be rotated from a horizontal position).
[0022] It may be an advantage to provide the shaft member with one or two brushings. Hereby,
the axial position of the shaft member can be maintained. It may be an advantage that
a brushing is provided in each end portion of the shaft member. It may be beneficial
to provide the mounting assembly with a support plate attached thereto by means of
any suitable attachment means e.g. screws, bots or nuts.
[0023] It may be an advantage that the cover assembly comprises a mounting assembly provided
in a mounting assembly housing. The mounting assembly housing may comprise a mounting
assembly having a first plate member provided with an enclosing portion and a second
plate member angled relative to the first plate member, a shaft member, brushings,
support members and a support plate. It is preferred that the mounting assembly housing
is detachably attached allowing for removal of the mounting assembly housing.
[0024] It may be an advantage that the cavity is configured to receive and maintain a shaft
member or one or more brushings or bearings attached to the shaft member and that
the cavity is provided at the lower side of a surface member of the frame. Hereby,
it is possible to position the hinge member and the shaft member at the highest position
possible. Accordingly, an optimum position for preventing water and dirt from above
to get access to the hinge member and the shaft member can be achieved. The cavity
may e.g. be basically semi-cylindrical or have a rectangular or triangular cross-section.
[0025] It is preferred that the outer surface of the enclosing portion of the hinge member
constitutes a portion of a cylindrical surface, preferably a cylindrical surface that
fits the basically semi-cylindrical cavity provided in the horizontal surface member
of the frame. Hereby, a well-functioning and reliable joint can be provided.
[0026] It may be advantageous that the cover assembly comprises a support unit configured
to support the shaft member or one or more brushings or bearings attached to the shaft
member of the hinge member. Hereby, the shaft member or one or more brushings or bearings
attached to the shaft member and thus the cover assembly can be assembled in an easy
and fast manner.
[0027] It may be beneficial that the support unit comprises a first support member supporting
a first portion of the shaft member or one or more brushings or bearings attached
to the shaft member and a second support member supporting a second portion of the
shaft member or one or more brushings or bearings attached to the shaft member. Hereby,
it is possible to provide a support that is stable and makes it possible to adjust
the orientation of the hinge member and the shaft member in order to allow for the
best possible opening and closing condition.
[0028] It may be an advantage that the support unit is height-adjustable. Hereby, it is
possible to adjust for casting inaccuracies, and thus secure that the shaft member
extends horizontally and that the support unit bears against the shaft member or one
or more brushings or bearings attached to the shaft member.
[0029] It may be advantageous that the support unit comprises an upper support member provided
on a lower support member. Hereby, it is possible to displace the upper support unit
relative to the lower support member in order to adjust the orientation of the shaft
member for securing that the shaft member extends horizontally.
[0030] In a preferred embodiment according to the invention, the support unit comprises
a first upper support member provided on a first lower support member and a second
upper support member provided on a second lower support member.
[0031] This configuration makes it possible to displace the first upper support unit relative
to the first lower support member and to displace the second upper support unit relative
to the second lower support member. Accordingly, it is even easier to adjust the orientation
of the shaft member in an optimum way.
[0032] It may be beneficial that the upper support member is provided with a sloped surface,
and that the lower support member is provided with a corresponding sloping surface,
wherein the sloped surface of the upper support member is bearing against the sloping
surface of the lower support member, wherein the support unit is provided with means
for adjusting the vertical position of the upper support member relative to the lower
support member and maintaining the upper support member in a fixed position relative
to the lower support member.
[0033] It may be advantageous that the means for adjusting the vertical position of the
upper support member relative to the lower support member, and maintaining the upper
support member in a fixed position relative to the lower support member, comprises
a screw member screwed into a threaded bore extending through the lower support member
and the upper support member, wherein the screw member is configured to adjust the
vertical position of the upper support member by adjusting the horizontal position
of the upper support member relative to the lower support member.
[0034] It may be an advantage that means for adjusting the vertical position of the upper
support member relative to the lower support member and maintaining the upper support
member in a fixed position relative to the lower support member comprises a support
screw vertically spaced relative to the screw member, wherein the support screw extends
through an additional through bore provided in the upper support member, preferably
an additional through bore extending parallel to the other through bore, wherein the
support screw bears against the lower support member and maintains a distance between
the upper support member and the lower support member, when the support member extends
further than through the additional through bore.
It may be an advantage that the screw member and/or the support screw extend basically
horizontally.
[0035] The support member(s) may support the enclosing portion of the hinge member directly
or indirectly.
[0036] It may be beneficial that the support member comprises two support legs configured
to support the different portions of the enclosing portion. The support legs may support
the mounting assembly directly.
[0037] It may be beneficial that a lift-assist mechanism is integrated in the cover, wherein
the lift-assist mechanism comprises an inner tube and a pipe member, wherein the inner
tube comprises a first member, and the pipe member comprises another member, wherein
the lift-assist mechanism comprises means for fixing the first member to the second
member. Hereby, it is possible to provide a cover assembly in which the first member
and the second member can be fixed to each other so that the cover can be fixed in
an open position.
[0038] The first element may be any suitable element that the second member can engage (be
attached to). The first element may be a bore, a protrusion, an arm member, a screw
or another suitable member. The second element may be any suitable element configured
to be brought into engagement with the first element. The second member may e.g. be
an arm member bore, a protrusion, an arm member, a screw or another suitable member.
It is preferred that the first element and the second element fit each other and are
configured to be brought into engagement. By way of example, the first element may
be a protrusion, while the second element is an arm member, wherein the protrusion
and the arm member are adapted to be brought into engagement.
[0039] It may be an advantage that a lift-assist mechanism is integrated in the cover, wherein
the lift-assist mechanism comprises an inner tube and a pipe member, wherein the inner
tube comprises an attachment member and the pipe member comprises an arm member, wherein
the lift-assist mechanism comprises a means for fixing the attachment member to the
arm member.
[0040] It may be beneficial that the lift-assist mechanism comprises an inner tube and a
pipe member, wherein the diameter of the inner tube is smaller than the diameter of
the pipe member, so that the inner tube can be displaced into the pipe member.
[0041] It may be preferred that the lift-assist mechanism is a gas-assisted or spring-assisted
cylinder. A lift-assist mechanism formed as a gas-assisted or spring-assisted cylinder
can provide a vertical directed force assisting the opening process. Hereby, the work
load can be reduced significantly.
[0042] The lift-assist mechanism can be formed in several ways. It may be advantageous that
the pipe member of the lift-assist mechanism comprises a spring. When the cover of
the cover assembly is in a closed position, the inner tube will be displaced into
the pipe member. In this configuration, the spring would be compressed. When the cover
is opened, the inner tube will be displaced relative to the pipe member due to gravity.
Accordingly, the spring will expand causing the cover to open. The cover may now be
locked by means of the locking assembly of the cover assembly.
[0043] It may be advantageous that the lift-assist mechanism comprises an inner tube and
a pipe member, wherein the inner tube is configured to be at least partially displaced
into the pipe member, wherein an attachment member is provided at the inner tube,
wherein a slot extending along the longitudinal axis of the pipe member is provided
in such a manner that the attachment member can be displaced through said slot, wherein
an arm is rotatably mounted on a mounting attached to the pipe member. Hereby, it
is possible to provide a compact and user-friendly lift-assist mechanism, in which
the attachment member can be displaced through said slot.
[0044] By providing an attachment member on the inner tube, it is possible to lock the cover
assembly in an open configuration. A slot extending along the length of the pipe member
allows for displacement of the attachment member. An arm member may be rotatably mounted
on a bracket provided at the pipe member. The rotatably mounted arm member can be
brought into engagement with the attachment member provided at the inner tube when
the cover is open.
[0045] The cover is locked in the position when the arm member is brought into engagement
with the attachment member. Accordingly, it will not be possible to open the cover
until the arm member no longer engages the attachment member. Therefore, in order
to unlock the lift-assist mechanism, it is necessary to rotate the arm member and
release it from its engagement with the attachment member.
[0046] The slot in the pipe member may be provided as an opening extending along the length
of the pipe member. It is preferred that the width of the slot is sufficiently large
to allow for displacing the attachment member into the pipe member without coming
into contact with the periphery of the slot.
[0047] By integrating the lift-assist mechanism in the cover, the working process is eased
for the staff handling and using the cover assembly.
[0048] It may be an advantage that the cover comprises one or more reinforcement members.
Hereby, the cover assembly can resist larger loads.
[0049] It may be beneficial that the cover comprises a lattice structure or grate structure
e.g. comprising a plurality of plate structures extending parallel and perpendicular
to each other, respectively.
[0050] It may be an advantage that the cover comprises at least one reinforcement member,
and that a lift-assist mechanism extends through the at least one reinforcement member.
The lift-assist mechanism may be integrated in the reinforcement member by providing
an aperture in the reinforcement member and letting the lift-assist mechanism extend
along the cover. Hereby, it is possible to provide a compact cover assembly, and furthermore
the lift-assist mechanism will not take up much space (it will not protrude from the
cover).
[0051] Moreover, it may be an advantage that the lift-assist mechanism does not restrict
the access to the well or manhole. Hereby, an unrestricted access to the well or manhole
can be achieved.
[0052] It may be advantageous that the cover comprises an insulation member provided under
the cover.
[0053] It may be an advantage that the cover comprises at least one reinforcement member,
wherein the lift-assist mechanism is mounted to be displaced through said at least
one reinforcement member. Hereby, it is possible to provide a compact and user-friendly
cover assembly.
[0054] It may be advantageous that the cover comprises a locking unit comprising:
- a locking head member mounted on a locking arm by means of a bolt;
- a locking member mounted on or integrated in the locking arm in such a manner that
the locking member extends basically perpendicular to the locking arm, wherein a mounting
preventing the locking member from being moved downwards is provided under the locking
member. Hereby, it is possible to lock the cover and thus prevent unauthorized access.
[0055] The mounting may be configured to preventing the locking member from being rotated
more that e.g. 60 degrees about the longitudinal axis of the locking arm.
[0056] The mounting may be attached to the frame or be an integrated portion of the frame.
[0057] A locking unit may be provided in several ways, however, it is preferred that it
requires use of a special tool to lock and unlock the cover.
[0058] The locking head member may be provided in a recess provided in the cover in such
a manner that a suitable tool can engage the locking head member. By rotating the
tool, the locking head member will rotate. Accordingly, it is possible to lock or
unlock the cover by rotating the locking unit.
[0059] The locking head member may have any suitable geometric shape allowing for engagement
with the locking head member.
[0060] The mounting may be attached to the back of the cover and is configured to prevent
the locking unit from falling into the well or manhole when the locking unit is not
locked (brought into engagement). It may be preferred that the mounting has a shape
that restricts the rotational range of motion of the locking unit. It may be an advantage
that the locking unit may be rotated within a range of approximately 90 degrees by
means of the mounting. Hereby, the mounting restricts at least a portion of the range
of motion of the locking unit.
[0061] It may be beneficial that a recess is provided in the locking arm.
[0062] It may be beneficial to provide the locking unit with a safety member that makes
it possible to unlock the locking member, even if the locking member does not rotate
upon rotation of the locking head member, (e.g. if the locking head member is corroded
or is fixed due to the presence of dirt) or if the tool is lost.
[0063] A safety member may be a recess (or another structure) provided in the locking member.
The recess (or another structure) may be provided to engage with a standard tool such
as a single-head wrench or a screw driver having a screwdriver tip e.g. of a blade-type
for a slotted structure or a "Phillips-type". Accordingly, it is possible to use a
standard tool to engage the safety member and hereby lock or unlock the cover of the
cover assembly.
[0064] It may be beneficial that the enclosing portion of the hinge member and the shaft
member is arranged in a position in which ingress of water from above is prevented.
Hereby, the hinge member and the shaft member can be protected from water and dirt.
Description of the Drawings
[0065] The invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given
herein below. The accompanying drawings are given by way of illustration only, and
thus, they are not limitative of the present invention. In the accompanying drawings:
- Fig. 1 a)
- shows a schematic view of a cover assembly according to the invention,
- Fig. 1 b)
- shows a close-up view of a sealing structure of the cover assembly shown in Fig. 1
a),
- Fig. 1 c)
- shows a schematic illustration of a cover assembly subject to a pressure force during
flooding,
- Fig. 2
- shows a schematic illustration of a lift-assist mechanism according to the invention,
- Fig. 3
- shows a schematic illustration of a closed cover assembly according to the invention,
- Fig. 4 a)
- shows a schematic view of an attachable mounting assembly according to the invention
seen from behind,
- Fig. 4 b)
- shows a schematic side view of the mounting assembly shown in Fig. 4 a),
- Fig. 5 a)
- shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a locking unit according to the invention,
- Fig. 5 b)
- shows three different views of a locking arm according to a locking unit according
to the invention,
- Fig. 6 a)
- shows a schematic illustration of a closed cover assembly according to the invention,
- Fig. 6 b)
- shows a schematic illustration of the cover assembly shown in Fig. 6a) in a fixed
but not fully opened configuration,
- Fig. 6 c)
- shows a schematic illustration of the cover assembly shown in Fig. 6a) and in Fig.
6 b) in a fully opened configuration,
- Fig. 6 d)
- shows a cross-sectional close-up view of a sealing member,
- Fig. 7 a)
- shows a mounting assembly housing of the invention,
- Fig. 7 b)
- shows another view of the mounting assembly housing shown in Fig. 7 a) and
- Fig. 8
- shows a side view of a mounting assembly housing of the invention.
Detailed description of the invention
[0066] Referring now in detail to the drawings for the purpose of illustrating preferred
embodiments of the present invention, a cover assembly device according to the invention
is illustrated in Fig. 1.
[0067] Fig. 1 a) illustrates a schematic view of a cover assembly 2 according to the invention.
The cover assembly 2 comprises a stationary part and a rotating part. The rotating
part comprises a cover 4 forming the lid over the opening of pipe 12 (of the well
or manhole) on the top of which the cover assembly 2 is arranged.
[0068] The cover assembly 2 is configured to rotate the cover 4. An insulation material
30 is attached to the back of the cover 4. The insulation material 30 is provided
in order to prevent condensation in the well/manhole when the temperature of the air
in the well/manhole exceeds the temperature of the cover 4.
[0069] The stationary part of the cover assembly 2 comprises a frame 6. A sealing element
14 is provided in a peripheral recess extending along the inside of the frame 6. The
sealing element 14 seals against dirt, filth, rain water and snow and prevent these
elements from entering the well/manhole.
[0070] The frame 6 is adapted to be mounted at the distal end of the well/manhole. Therefore,
a pipe 12 has been attached to the frame 6 at the portion at which the pipe 12 enters
the well/manhole. A concrete block 10 surrounds the top portion of the pipe 12. The
concrete block 10 reinforces the opening of the well/manhole and thus prevents it
from being damaged.
[0071] A mounting assembly housing 8 is provided under the cover 4 and the top surface of
the frame 6. The cover 4 is rotatably mounted to the frame 6 by means of the mounting
assembly housing 8. As it will be disclosed in the following drawings, the mounting
assembly housing 8 comprises a mounting assembly having a shaft member that the cover
assembly 2 is configured to rotate about.
[0072] Fig. 1 b) illustrates a close-up view of the sealing element 14 extending along the
peripheral recess provided in the inside of the frame 6. An even closer look of the
sealing element 14 can be seen in Fig. 6 d).
[0073] Fig. 1 c) illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of a closed cover assembly
2 according to the invention. Since the cover assembly 2 is closed and locked, it
prevents unwanted opening of the cover assembly 2, for example in the case of raising
liquid (e.g. water or sewage) 16 in the well/manhole in case of flooding. The lock
mechanism according to the invention prevents opening of the cover assembly 2, even
if a rising liquid level creates a force F against the cover assembly 2. Accordingly,
the cover assembly 2 prevents leaking manhole covers 2.
[0074] Fig. 2 illustrates a schematic view of a lift-assist mechanism 82 according to the
invention. The lift-assist mechanism 82 is configured to maintain the cover assembly
2 in a fixed open position and to provide lift-assistance and thus ease the opening
and closing procedure.
[0075] The lift-assist mechanism 82 comprises a pipe member 28 and an inner tube 18 having
a smaller diameter than the pipe member 28, so that the inner tube 18 is displaceable
into the pipe member 28. A spring (not shown) may be provided in the pipe member 28
or in the inner tube 18. The pipe member 29 has a first end portion 29 and a second
end portion 29', while the inner tube 18 comprises a first end portion 19 and a second
end portion 19'. An attachment member 24 is attached to the end portion 19' of the
inner tube 18.
[0076] The pipe member 28 is provided with a slot (not shown) extending along the length
of the pipe member 28. The slot has a shape that allows the attachment member 24 to
be displaced along the slot. A mounting 20 is attached to the end portion 29 of the
pipe member 28. An arm member 22 is rotatably attached to the mounting 20 by means
of a shaft 26, so that the arm member 22 can rotate about the shaft 26. By fixing
the arm member 22 to the attachment member 24, the lift-assist mechanism 82 can be
locked and maintained in a fixed position so that the cover assembly 2 can be locked
and maintained in a fixed open configuration.
[0077] The inner tube 18 is displaced into the pipe member 28 when the cover assembly 2
is closed. The end portion 19' of the inner tube 18 will be provided close to the
end portion 29' of the pipe member 28. The attachment member 24 will be located close
to the end portion 29' of the pipe member 28 when the inner tube 18 is displaced into
the pipe member 28.
Fig. 2 illustrates a configuration in which the arm member 22 engages the attachment
member 24. Hereby, the pipe member 28 is fixed relative to the inner tube 18. This
configuration will occur when the cover assembly is open.
[0078] In order to close the cover assembly, the arm member 22 is released from its engagement
with the attachment member 24, the arm member 22 is rotated and the inner tube 18
is displace into the pipe member 28.
[0079] Fig. 3 illustrates a schematic illustration of a closed cover assembly 2 according
to the invention. The cover assembly 2 is in a closed configuration and comprises
a cover 4 having a periphery with a first end portion 98 and a second end portion
98' bearing against an inner support structure (of the frame 6) comprising a protrusion
40. A recess 80 that may be sealed with a sealing member is provided adjacent to the
protrusion 40. A sealing member may prevent dirt, particles, rain and snow from having
access through the closed cover assembly 2. The frame 6 is configured to be attached
to an opening of a well or a manhole.
[0080] The cover 4 is rotatably mounted to a horizontal surface member 120 of a first portion
42 the frame 6. The opposite portion of the cover 4 bears against a second portion
43 of the frame 6. Reinforcement members 96 extend perpendicular to the back of the
cover 4 in order to increase the compressive strength of the cover 4. The reinforcement
members 96 form a lattice structure on the back of the cover 4. Due to this structure,
the cover can resist large loads provided either from above or from below.
[0081] The cover 4 is attached to the horizontal surface member 120 of a first portion 42
of the frame 6 by means of a mounting assembly housing 62. The mounting assembly housing
62 makes it possible to open and close the cover 4, and keep the cover 4 is attached
to the frame 6. The mounting assembly housing 62 comprises a hinge member 36 rotatably
mounted about its shaft member 34. The first end of the hinge member 36 is attached
to the cover 4 by means of fastening means (not shown), while the opposite end of
the hinge member 36 encloses the shaft member 36 and is mounted in a corresponding
structure provided in the horizontal surface member 120 of a first portion 42 of the
frame 6 (this is shown in greater detail in Fig. 8). The mounting assembly housing
62 is supported by a support structure comprising a support member 76 supported by
an underlying support plate 78.
[0082] In order to make it easier to open and close the cover 4, the cover 4 is provided
with a lift-assist mechanism 82. The lift-assist mechanism 82 assists the opening
and closing procedure and makes it possible to carry out the opening and closing procedure
by means of less force. The lift-assist mechanism 82 moreover has a dampening effect
preventing the risk of a sudden opening or closing of the cover 4.
[0083] The lift-assist mechanism 82 comprises an inner tube 18 and a pipe member 28. The
inner tube 18 has a smaller diameter than the pipe member 28, and thus the inner tube
can be displaced into the pipe member 28. An arm member 32 is attached to the inner
tube 18. The arm member 32 is rotatably attached to a shaft member 38 in its distal
end. The shaft member 38 is arranged in a recess provided in the support plate 78
attached to the first portion 42 of the frame 6. The cover 4 will be opened when the
cover assembly 2 is opened. The arm member 32 will rotate about the longitudinal axis
of the shaft member 38 during the opening process 4. At the same time, the inner tube
18 will be displaced relative to the pipe member 28.
[0084] The lift-assist mechanism 82 may be gas-assisted or spring-assisted. Accordingly,
gas or a spring may be applied to provide a force assisting the opening and closing
procedure. A lift-assist mechanism 82 formed as a gas-assisted or spring-assisted
cylinder can provide a vertical directed force assisting the opening process. Hereby,
the work load can be reduced significantly.
[0085] The lift-assist mechanism 82 extends through an opening (aperture or slot) provided
in the reinforcement member 96. This way of integrating the lift-assist mechanism
82 in the cover 4 provides a compact and space-saving solution allowing an easier
access to the well or manhole.
[0086] The cover 4 can be locked to keep unauthorised persons out. The cover assembly is
provided with a locking unit 56. The locking unit 56 will be in engagement with a
fixed support 86 when the cover 4 is locked. The locking unit 56 will be brought out
of engagement with a fixed support 86 when the cover 4 is unlocked. A tool or key
(not shown) is needed to unlock the locking unit 56. The tool or key is brought into
engagement with the locking head member 46 of the locking unit 56. The locking member
52 of the locking unit 56 can be rotated by rotating the locking head member 46 by
said tool or key. The cover 4 comprises a mounting 84 adapted to prevent vertical
displacement of the locking member 52 in order to prevent the locking unit 56 from
falling into the well/manhole. The mounting 84 prevents the locking member 52 from
being rotated more than 90 degrees.
[0087] Fig. 4 a) illustrates a schematic view of an attachable mounting assembly 62 according
to the invention seen from behind (and thus perpendicular to the longitudinal axis
of the shaft member 68). Fig. 4 b) illustrates a schematic side view of the mounting
assembly 62 shown in Fig. 4 a) (and thus parallel to the longitudinal axis of the
shaft member 68). The mounting assembly 62 is attached to the frame 6 by means of
a mounting 74 and to the cover 4 by means of bolts (not shown) or other suitable fastening
means. Two brushings 64, 66 are arranged in a through bore 116 provided in the mounting
assembly 62.
[0088] The mounting assembly 62 is configured to provide a detachable attachment of the
cover 4 to the frame 6 allowing the cover 4 to be opened and closed. The mounting
assembly 62 comprises a hinge member 70, a shaft member 68, a through bore 100, two
(equally shaped) support members 76, 76' a support plate 78 and two brushings 64,
6,6. The hinge member 70 comprises a first plate member 102 and a second plate member
104 provided with an enclosing portion 106 enclosing the cylindrical shaft member
68. The first plate member 102 and a second plate member 104 are angled approximately
80 degrees relative to each other. The first plate member 102 and a second plate member
104 are made out of a one-piece body that is bent to achieve the said angle.
[0089] The enclosing portion 106 is provided with a through bore 100 adapted to receive
and contain the shaft member 68 in such a manner that the hinge member 70 can rotate
about the shaft member 68. A first brushing 64 is provided in the first end of the
shaft member 68, while a second brushing 66 is attached to the opposite end of the
shaft member 68.
[0090] The frame 6 is provided with a recess 14 configured to receive a sealing member.
The two support members 76, 76' are arranged to support the brushings 64, 66 and thus
the shaft member 68 enclosed by the brushings 64, 66. The support members 76, 76'
and the support plate 78 that they protrude from constitute a mounting 74 made as
a one-piece body.
[0091] A recess 72 is provided in the mounting 74. The recess 72 is configured to receive
a shaft 38 and hereby rotatably attach the arm member 32 to the recess 72 provided
in the mounting 74.
[0092] Fig. 5 a) illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of a locking unit 56 according
to the invention. The locking unit 56 prevents unauthorized opening of the cover 4.
The locking unit 56 comprises a locking head member 46 configured to receive a tool
or a key in order to lock or unlock the locking unit 56 and prevent and give access
to the well or manhole below the cover 4, respectively.
[0093] A recess 88 is provided in the front side of the cover 4. The recess 88 is configured
and shaped to receive the locking head member 46 and the plate member (a washer) 58
and still allowing a tool or key to being brought into engagement with the locking
unit 56 for locking and unlocking the locking unit 56.
[0094] A cylindrical portion 90 is provided in the cover 4. The cylindrical portion 90 is
provided with a first portion having a first diameter 92 and a second portion having
a second larger diameter 92'. The bolt 44 has a diameter slightly smaller than the
first diameter 92, while the locking arm 60 has a larger diameter slightly smaller
than the second diameter 92'. The locking unit 56 cannot be removed from the cylindrical
portion 90 by pulling it upwards as long as the bolt 44 is attached to the locking
arm 60, since the diameter of the locking arm 60 exceeds the diameter 92 of the first
portion.
[0095] The locking member 52 extends basically perpendicular to the locking arm 60. The
locking member 52 can be brought into a locked and unlocked position upon rotation.
A bore 94 is provided in the locking arm 60 and a spring 50 is arranged in the bore
94. A recess 54 is provided in the bottom portion of the bore 94. It is possible to
replace the recess 54 with another structure (e.g. a rectangular-shaped or star-shaped
structure) suitable for receiving a tool (e.g. a screw driver). The recess 54 is provided
as a safety mechanism allowing the locking unit 56 to be unlocked by using a standard
tool (e.g. a screwdriver) brought into engagement with the recess 54.
[0096] The upper portion of the bore 94 is threaded, while a spring 50 is provided in the
lower portion of the bore 94. When a tool or key is applied to unlock the locking
unit 56, the bolt 44 engages the threaded portion of the bore 94 and the spring 50
is compressed so that the locking member 52 is brought into fixing contact with the
fixed support 86.
[0097] When a tool or key is used to unlock the locking unit 56, the spring 50 will expand
and the rotation of the bolt 44 will reduce the vertical force applied by the locking
member 52 towards the fixed support 86. When the vertical force applied by the locking
member 52 towards the fixed support 86 is reduced, it is possible to rotate and hereby
release the locking member 52 from the engagement with the fixed support 86. Accordingly,
the cover may be opened.
[0098] The locking member 52 can be brought into a closed and open configuration upon rotating
the locking member 52 by using a tool or a key or alternatively a standard screwdriver.
In a locked configuration, the locking unit 56 presses against both the recess 88
and the fixed support 86 so that the locking unit 56 neither can be rotated nor displaced
vertically. In the open configuration, the locking member 52 can be rotated and displaced
vertically. The mounting 84 prevents the locking unit 56 from falling into the well/manhole.
[0099] Fig. 5 b) illustrates three different views of a locking arm 60 according to a locking
unit 56 according to the invention. An engagement member 140 is provided in the top
portion of the locking arm 60. A bore 94 is provided in the locking arm 60, and a
recess 54 is provided in the bottom portion of the bore 94. While the engagement member
140 extends parallel to the length of the locking member 52, the recess 54 extends
perpendicular to the length of the locking member 52. The engagement member 140 may
be used to unlock the locking arm 60, if the bolt 44 is lost, removed or damaged.
Hereby, the engagement member 140 provides an alternative to the recess 54 provided
in the bottom portion of the bore 94.
[0100] Fig. 6 illustrates different schematic views of a cover assembly 2 according to the
invention. The cover 4 is closed in Fig. 6 a). In Fig. 6 b), the cover 4 is in a fixed
but not fully opened configuration. In Fig. 6 c), the cover 4 is in a fully opened
configuration. Fig. 6 d) illustrates a cross-sectional close-up view of a sealing
member 14. The cover assembly 2 corresponds to the one explained with reference to
Fig. 3.
[0101] In Fig. 6 a), the cover 4 is closed, and the locking unit 56 is locked. Accordingly,
the inner tube 18 of the lift-assist mechanism 82 is displaced into the pipe member
28.
[0102] In Fig. 6 b), the cover 4 is in a fixed but not fully opened configuration. Therefore,
the inner tube 18 of the lift-assist mechanism 82 has been displaced partly out of
the pipe member 28.
[0103] In Fig. 6 c), the cover 4 is in a fully opened configuration. Consequently, the inner
tube 18 of the lift-assist mechanism 82 has been further displaced out of the pipe
member 28. Moreover, the arm member 22 is brought into engagement with the corresponding
attachment member 24 in order to fix the inner tube 18 relative to the pipe member
28.
[0104] Fig. 6 d) illustrates a cross-sectional close-up view of a sealing member 14 configured
to be inserted into the recess 80 provided in the frame 6. The sealing member 14 has
a basically rectangular cross-section and is provided a through bore 114 having a
circular cross-section. The through bore 110 makes the sealing member 14 compressible
and shapeable.
[0105] The sealing member 14 comprises a first notch 110 and a second notch 112 provided
in the lower portion of the sealing member 14. A protrusion 108 is provided in the
upper left corner region of the sealing element 14. The sealing member 14 fits the
geometry of the recess 80 into which the sealing member 14 is intended to be arranged.
[0106] While Fig. 7 a) illustrates a back view of a mounting assembly housing 62 of the
invention, Fig. 7 b) illustrates a side view of the mounting assembly housing 62 shown
in Fig. 7 a).
[0107] The mounting assembly housing 62 comprises a hinge member 70 having a first plate
member and a second plate member angled approximately 80 degrees relative to each
other. The hinge member 70 comprises an enclosing portion 106 enclosing a through-going
shaft member 68. The enclosing portion 106 is sandwiched between a first brushing
64 and a second brushing 66 enclosing the end portions of the shaft member 68. The
brushings 64, 66 are supported by the top portion 142 of the support members 76, 76'.
The support member 76 comprises an upper support member 124 having a sloped surface
128 that bears against a corresponding support surface 130 of a lower support member
126.
[0108] A threaded screw member 132 is screwed into a threaded bore 138 going through the
upper support member 124 and extending further in the lower support member 126. A
nut 136 is screwed to the distal portion of the threaded screw member 132. Another
threaded screw member 134 is screwed into an additional threaded through bore extending
through the lower portion of the upper support member 124. The screw member 134 protrudes
from the lower portion of the upper support member 124 and bears against the lower
portion of the lower support member 126.
[0109] By changing the position of the threaded screw member 132 in the threaded bore 138,
it is possible to provide a horizontal displacement of the upper support member 124
relative to the lower support member 126. Hereby, the horizontal position of the top
portion 142 of the upper support member 124 is changed. Accordingly, it is possible
to adjust the vertical position of the top portion 142 of the upper support member
124 in order to make sure that the shaft member 68 extends horizontally and that the
vertical position of the bearings 64, 66 are kept in the cavity provided in the frame
6.
[0110] Fig. 8 shows a side view of a mounting assembly housing 62 of the invention. The
mounting assembly housing 62 comprises a hinge member 70 comprising a first plate
member 12 angled approximately 80 degrees relative to a second plate portion 104 comprising
an enclosing portion 106 enclosing a through-going shaft member 68. The enclosing
portion 106 is sandwiched between a first brushing 64 and a second brushing (not shown)
enclosing the end portions of the shaft member 68. The support member 76 supports
the brushing 64.
[0111] The contact surface 122 of the brushing 64 is configured to bear against and be received
by a corresponding cavity 118 provided in the horizontal surface member 120 of the
frame 6 that is provided above the mounting assembly housing 62. Thus, the cover 4
can be detachably attached to the frame 6 by mounting the hinge member 70 in the cavity
118 provided in the frame 6.
List of reference numerals
[0112]
- 2
- Cover assembly
- 4
- Cover
- 6
- Frame
- 8
- Mounting assembly housing
- 10
- Concrete block
- 12
- Pipe
- 14
- Sealing member
- 16
- Liquid
- 18
- Inner tube
- 19, 19', 29, 29'
- End portion
- 20
- Mounting
- 22
- Arm member
- 24
- Attachment member
- 26
- Shaft
- 28
- Pipe member
- 30
- Insulation material
- 32
- Arm member
- 34
- Shaft
- 36
- Hinge member
- 38
- Shaft
- 40
- Protrusion
- 42
- First portion
- 43
- Second portion
- 44
- Bolt
- 46
- Locking head member
- 48
- Threaded portion
- 50
- Spring
- 52
- Locking member
- 54
- Recess
- 56
- Locking unit
- 58
- Plate member
- 60
- Locking arm
- 62
- Mounting assembly housing
- 64, 66
- Bushing
- 68
- Shaft
- 70
- Hinge member
- 72
- Recess
- 74
- Mounting
- 76, 76'
- Support member
- 78
- Support plate
- 80
- Recess
- 82
- Lift-assist mechanism
- 84
- Mounting
- 86
- Fixed support
- 88
- Recess
- 90
- Cylindrical portion
- 92, 92'
- Diameter
- 94
- Bore
- F
- Force
- 96
- Reinforcement member
- 98, 98'
- End portion
- 100, 114, 116
- Through bore
- 102
- First plate
- 104
- Second plate
- 106
- Enclosing portion
- 108
- Protrusion
- 110, 112
- Notch
- 118
- Cavity
- 120
- Horizontal surface member
- 122
- Contact surface
- 124
- Upper support member
- 126
- Lower support member
- 128, 130
- Sloped surface
- 132, 134
- Treaded screw member
- 136
- Nut
- 138
- Treated bore
- 140
- Engagement member
- 142
- Top portion
1. A cover assembly (2) comprising:
- a frame (6) having a peripheral wall defining an access opening;
- a cover (4) rotatably mounted to the frame (6) by means of an attachable mounting
assembly (34, 36) comprising a shaft member (34, 68) rotatably mounted in a hinge
member (34, 36, 64, 66, 68, 70) having an enclosing portion (106) that at least partially
encloses the shaft member (34, 68), characterised in that the hinge member (34, 36, 64, 66, 68, 70) is rotatably mounted in a cavity (118)
provided in the frame member (6) in such a manner that the longitudinal axis of the
shaft member (34, 68) is fixed in a predefined vertical position relative to the frame
(6).
2. A cover assembly (2) according to claim 1, characterised in that the cavity (118) is configured to receive and maintain the shaft member (34, 68)
or one or more brushings (64, 66) or bearings attached to the shaft member (34, 68)
and that the cavity (118) is provided at the lower side of a surface member (120)
of the frame (6).
3. A cover assembly (2) according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that a support unit (76, 76') is provided to support the shaft member (34, 68) or one
or more brushings or bearings attached to the shaft member (34, 68) of the hinge member
(34, 36, 64, 66, 68, 70).
4. A cover assembly (2) according to claim 3,
characterised in that the (4) support unit (76, 76') comprises:
- a first support member (76) supporting a first portion of the shaft member (34,
68) or one or more brushings or bearings attached to the shaft member (34, 68);
- a second support member (76') supporting a second portion of the shaft member (34,
68) or one or more brushings or bearings attached to the shaft member (34, 68).
5. A cover assembly (2) according to claim 3 or claim 4, characterised in that the (4) support unit (76, 76') is height-adjustable.
6. A cover assembly (2) according to claim 5, characterised in that the (4) support unit (76, 76') comprises an upper support member (124) provided on
a lower support member (126).
7. A cover assembly (2) according to claim 5, characterised in that the upper support member (124) is provided with a sloped surface (128) and that the
lower support member (126) is provided with a corresponding sloping surface (130),
wherein the sloped surface (128) of the upper support member (124) is bearing against
the sloping surface (130) of the lower support member (126), wherein the support unit
(76, 76') is provided with means (132, 134, 136, 138) for adjusting the vertical position
of the upper support member (124) relative to the lower support member (126) and maintaining
the upper support member (124) in a fixed position relative to the lower support member
(126).
8. A cover assembly (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a lift-assist mechanism (82) is integrated in the cover (4), wherein the lift-assist
mechanism (82) comprises an inner tube (18) and a pipe member (28), wherein the inner
tube (18) comprises a first member (24) and the pipe member (28) comprises another
member (22), wherein the lift-assist mechanism (82) comprises means (20, 22, 24, 26)
for fixing the first member (24) to the second member (22).
9. A cover assembly (2) according to claim 8, characterised in that the lift-assist mechanism (82) is a gas-assisted or spring-assisted cylinder
10. A cover assembly (2) according to one of the claims 8-9, characterised in that the lift-assist mechanism (82) comprises an inner tube (18) and a pipe member (28),
wherein the inner tube (18) is configured to be at least partially displaced into
the pipe member (28), wherein an attachment member (24) is provided at the inner tube
(18), wherein a slot extending along the longitudinal axis of the pipe member (28)
is provided in such a manner that the attachment member (24) can be displaced through
said slot, wherein an arm is rotatably mounted on a mounting attached to the pipe
member (28).
11. A cover assembly (2) according to one of the claims 8-10, characterised in that the cover (4) comprises at least one reinforcement member (96), wherein the lift-assist
mechanism (82) is mounted to be displaced through said at least one reinforcement
member (96).
12. A cover assembly (2) according to one of the preceding claims,
characterised in that the cover (4) comprises a locking unit (56) comprising:
- a locking head member (46) mounted on a locking arm (60) by means of a bolt (44);
- a locking member (52) mounted on or integrated in the locking arm (60) in such a
manner that the locking member (52) extends basically perpendicular to the locking
arm (60), wherein a mounting (84) preventing the locking member (52) from being moved
downwards is provided under the locking member (52).
13. A cover assembly (2) according to claim 12, characterised in that a recess (54, 140) is provided in the locking arm (60).
14. A cover assembly (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the enclosing portion (106) of the hinge member (36, 70) and the shaft member (36,
68) is arranged in a position in which ingress of water from above is prevented.