Vault Cover-closure Patents (Class 404/25)
  • Patent number: 7712259
    Abstract: A quick, field installed sump cover system for below ground sumps includes a support ring, a seal between the ring and sump upper lip, preferably two compression brackets each having two spaced regions extending under riser parts, at least one elongated member coupled between the support ring and compression brackets for selectively applying tension forces therebetween causing the bracket regions to engage the riser parts and the support ring to compresses the sealing member to form liquid-tight seal with the sump lip. The sump top can be closed by a dome-cover removably coupled to the support ring. The elongated members can include chain-like members with tensioning devices that, in field installations, can accommodate various sump sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Universal Valve Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Martin C. Pettesch
  • Patent number: 7704010
    Abstract: A manhole security device for securing a manhole access opening includes a circular barrier adapted to rest on a manhole cover support flange of a manhole frame. Locking members on the barrier are movable between a locked position in which the locking members are adapted to engage the manhole frame and an unlocked position in which the locking members are not adapted to engage the manhole frame. A biasing mechanism on the barrier is adapted to bias each locking member to its locked position. A rotatable locking mechanism on the barrier engages the locking members and has a locking rotational position wherein the locking members are in the locked position and an unlocking rotational position wherein the locking members are in the unlocked position. The locking mechanism has a security lock adapted to receive a security key that applies a rotational torque to the locking mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: McGard LLC
    Inventors: Eric R. Nolle, Jeffrey R. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 7695213
    Abstract: A manhole cover assembly including a frame defining an opening and a cover sized to engage the opening. A lift pin is retained by the frame, defining a first axis, and includes a bearing portion, and a top end connected to the cover. The lift pin is free to slide axially along the first axis. A spiral cam is retained to the frame by a torque shaft including an upper and lower end, defining a second axis offset from the first axis. The spiral cam includes a cam surface in selective engagement with the bearing portion of the lift pin so that rotation of the torque shaft about the second axis causes rotation of the spiral cam about the second axis and displacement of the lift pin along the first axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Neenah Foundry Company
    Inventors: Steven M. Akkala, Randy P. Remme
  • Publication number: 20100054857
    Abstract: A secure access port cover system comprises a cover and an access tool. The cover includes a base and one or more lids that are locked and unlocked via manipulation of a mechanical locking system housed within the interior of the base. A relatively small control port in the base provides access to the internal locking system. However, a specially adapted access tool is required to manipulate the internal locking system and move it between its locked and unlocked positions. Correspondingly, the access tool in one or more embodiments is a restricted-use item and not readily available to the public at large. Because the internal locking system can be manipulated only with the access tool, those not in possession of the access tool are unable to unlock the cover's lid(s) and unauthorized access to the underlying manhole or other access port is thereby prevented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: G. Frank Ray
  • Patent number: 7670086
    Abstract: A method of repairing and renewing a manhole chimney utilizes a circumferentially stretchable liner sleeve which is inserted into the manhole and pressed by an inflatable bladder into engagement with the walls of the manhole chimney. The sleeve is coated with an uncured resin, which is allowed to cure as the sleeve is pressed against the chimney walls, thereby attaching the sleeve to the walls of the manhole chimney. The stretchable sleeve eliminates air spaces between the sleeve and the chimney walls, and precludes formation of undesirable folds in the sleeve. The sleeve stretches circumferentially up to 150% of its unstretched diameter, while having a substantially unstretchable length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignees: LMK Enterprises, Inc., O'Sullivan Trenchless Installation Services
    Inventors: Larry W. Kiest, Jr., Jason Bartlett, Thomas M. O'Sullivan, III, Raymond L. Greek, Timothy L. Back, Donald L. Betzold
  • Patent number: 7662280
    Abstract: A catch basin sealing system for closing a basin opening in a catch basin to inhibit contaminants from entering the catch basin includes a plurality of guide channels. Each of the guide channels is coupled to a bottom surface of a catch basin. The guide channels are positioned on opposing sides of a basin opening. A closing plate slidably engages the guide channels. The closing plate is slid from a first position adjacent the basin opening to a second position under the basin opening to close the basin opening and inhibit flow of liquid into the catch basin. A seal is coupled to an upper surface of the closing plate. The seal engages the catch basin around the basin opening to inhibit liquid flowing between the closing plate and the catch basin when the closing plate is positioned in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Inventor: John R. Cooney
  • Patent number: 7658570
    Abstract: A remotely actuated manhole system is disclosed having a cover that is pivotable relative to a frame secured with a collar on a bulk carrier, the cover being pivotable around a substantially vertical axis between and to open and closed positions. In the closed position covering an opening to a compartment in the bulk carrier, the cover is shiftable vertically between and to locked and unlocked positions by an inflatable seal member below the cover. The manhole system includes catches that prevent over-rotation of the cover from the open position to the closed position, and the catches engage in the locked position by the vertical upward movement of the cover. The inflation of the seal member and the pivoting of the cover are remotely actuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Delaware Captial Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Simon Christopher Hill, David Stewart Miller
  • Publication number: 20100028077
    Abstract: A stop mechanism advantageously combined with a manhole cover includes a holder body having a passage which slidably receives a stop member able to be cammed in and out upon advance or retraction of a threaded drive member having an enlarged tip engaged with a down sloping channel formed in the stop member. Upper sides of the channel engage the tip upon reversal of the drive member to cam the stop member back into the holder body. The stop member when extends prevents removal of the cover from being blown completely free of the manhole vault structure in the event of an explosion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventor: David M. Stadler
  • Patent number: 7648307
    Abstract: An underground structure cover comprises a cover body (10) and a receiving frame (20) arranged so that the cover body is fitted in and supported by the receiving frame in the manner that an inclined surface (11) of the outer circumference of the body meets an inclined surface (21) of the inner circumference of the frame. The inclined surfaces (11, 21) each have an upper inclined surface (11a, 21a) and a lower inclined surface (11b, 21b), and the lower inclined surfaces (11b, 21b) are steeper than the upper inclined surfaces (11a, 21a). The body (10) is fitted in and supported by the part (20) at the upper inclined surfaces (11a, 21a) and the lower inclined surfaces (11b, 21b). By this, the body is prevented from being wedged into the frame too deeply and also from becoming inclined with respect to the frame or riding up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Hinode Inc.
    Inventors: Yukinori Gondou, Tomokazu Hasegawa, Masakazu Hidaka, Norio Shinohara, Kenichi Koga, Kazumi Tanaka
  • Publication number: 20090324328
    Abstract: A manhole cover includes a security device, preferably located beneath an upper surface thereof. A cover removing apparatus includes a magnetic element to hold the cover, when a pin of the apparatus is engaged with the security device of the cover. A push force, which may be applied through a port in the upper surface of the cover, for example, by the pin member, can deform, and thereby unlock, a spring-loaded locking member of the security device. The security device may further include at least one elongate member, which is caused to move from a first position to a second position, by the push force, in order to disengage the cover from a manhole, so that the cover may be removed from the manhole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicant: AER TECH, INC.
    Inventor: David Roberts
  • Publication number: 20090304445
    Abstract: Provided are covers useful for covering the open end of an access conduit that may contain fluid control equipment. In one embodiment, a cover according to the invention comprises a disc-shaped base portion having a top surface and a bottom surface, with a plurality of groups of stability tangs attached to its bottom surface. A cover as provided herein is readily adaptable to fit a large number of conduit boxes, valve boxes and the like which are presently in common use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventor: Gary W. Salas
  • Patent number: 7627992
    Abstract: A stackable riser section having a single side wall having a first open end defined by an edge and a second open, channel end. The riser section includes a plurality of bosses extending to the first open end and connected to an interior surface of the sidewall by narrow webs. A channel, on the channel end of one riser is adapted to receive the bosses of a mated riser. A wall defining the boss receiving channel has a plurality of slots with at least a portion defined by parallel edges. The slots receive the webs that connect the bosses to the riser sidewall. The bosses are wider than the portion of the slots defined by the parallel edges. The slotted wall includes thickened wedge portions to snugly fit with the first open end of another riser section. A cover is disclosed that includes the same channel end to coact with the first open end of a riser section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Inventor: Peter W. Gavin
  • Patent number: 7607858
    Abstract: An enhanced security manhole cover is disclosed, comprising a frame, outer cover, inner cover, crossbar, saddle, eyebolt, and padlock. The inner cover, which closes the lower opening in a manhole, includes a detent in the top surface for receiving the eyebolt. The crossbar is positioned above the inner cover and engages the walls of the frame. The crossbar includes a threaded hole that aligns with the detent. The saddle, an upside down U-shaped member, is positioned over the crossbar and includes a slot for the eyebolt to partially extend through. The saddle may include a shoulder on the base, to protect the eyebolt. The eyebolt passes partially through the saddle and crossbar and threads into the bore. The shackle of the padlock passes through holes in the upright of the U-shaped saddle below the crossbar, locking the saddle in place. The upper cover closes the top of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Director, The National Security Agency
    Inventors: Gary S. Mosholder, Thomas Zuby
  • Publication number: 20090257823
    Abstract: A cover for opening and closing a manhole includes a movable cover and a base cover, the movable cover and the base cover being connected to each other by a shaft manufactured from an aluminium bronze alloy that passes through at least one first hinge part fastened to the movable cover and at least two second hinge parts fastened to the cover base, the first hinge part being fastened perpendicularly to the second hinge parts. In this way, it is possible to manufacture robust manhole covers offering good comfort to a driver of a car, since the movable cover may be manufactured so that the distance between an outer rim of the movable cover and the base cover is minimized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2006
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventor: Poul E. Christensen
  • Publication number: 20090255183
    Abstract: A manhole cover having an integrated locking system that is self-locking and easy to open. The device includes a cover plate adapted to rest on a manhole cover support surface of a manhole frame so as to be substantially flush with a top portion of the manhole frame and a surrounding surface in which the manhole frame is situated. An anchor on the cover plate is adapted to engage the manhole frame at a first location in a manner that resists lifting of the cover plate proximate to the first location. A locking member on the cover plate is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the locking member is adapted to engage the manhole frame at a second location in a manner that resists lifting of the cover plate proximate to the second location. In the unlocked position, the locking member is disengaged from the manhole frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Applicant: MCGARD LLC
    Inventors: Eric R. Nolle, Jeffrey R. Sullivan
  • Publication number: 20090252552
    Abstract: A supplemental access cover is adapted to cover an access cover. The supplemental access cover includes a layer of material having a thickness in the range of 0.01 inch to 1.5 inches, and an apparatus for attaching the layer of material to the access cover. A method for paving uses the supplemental access cover. The method includes locating an access cover within an area to be paved, attaching a supplemental cover to the access cover, and paving over the access cover and the supplemental cover. The method for paving also includes relocating the access cover, and removing the supplemental cover from the access cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventors: Dwight G. Wiedrich, Christopher Michael Larson, James Lee McCain, Lee Dean Mastell
  • Patent number: 7574831
    Abstract: An integrally formed riser pan member for use as a modular component within an access passageway for an on-site waste disposal system, such as a septic tank, to receivably retain a secondary cover member within, the riser pan member including a cylindrical body having an upper portion having a vertical wall member adapted to receive another modular passageway component thereon, and a lower portion which includes an integral pan portion to seatably receive a secondary cover member. The riser pan member further includes an annular ring between the upper and lower portions. The riser pan member can be employed as a lowermost, a highermost, or as an intermediate component in, for example, an access passageway formed of multiple stackable riser members. In addition, the riser pan member may be formed integrally with a stackable riser member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Tuf-Tite, Inc.
    Inventor: Theodore W. Meyers
  • Publication number: 20090180832
    Abstract: A manhole system that includes a manhole cover and a frame with at least one locking device for maintaining the manhole cover in place on the frame. The locking device is selectively movable between locked and unlocked positions to selectively engage the cover to hold the cover in place on the frame. The locking device may be rotatable between “locked” and “unlocked” positions about an axis perpendicular to the plane of the cover. The locking device may includes a plurality of cam locks that engage the outer circumferential edge of the cover and are configured to increasingly clamp down the cover against the frame with increasing rotation from “unlocked” position to “locked” position. A plurality of locks can be arranged around frame to engage the cover at different locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Applicant: EAST JORDAN IRON WORKS, INC.
    Inventors: Kevin S. Vrondran, Jeremy I. Johnson, David Fuller
  • Patent number: 7559717
    Abstract: Provided herein are covers useful for covering the open end of an access conduit that may contain fluid control equipment. A cover according to the invention comprises a disc-shaped base portion having a top surface and a bottom surface, with a plurality of risers attached to its bottom surface. There is a contact shoe associated with each of the risers, and the contact shoes have a curvature and are disposed sufficiently on the bottom surface of the base portion so as to exert an outward mechanical force against the inner wall of a conduit that is capped by a cover according to the invention, when such cover is in its installed position, thus providing a secure, yet conveniently removable access cover/conduit assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Inventor: Gary W. Salas
  • Patent number: 7556055
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention provides a rupture disk assembly having a rupture disk and a rupture disk holder. The rupture disk holder has a first annular member downstream of the rupture disk, a second annular member upstream of the rupture disk, and an optional third annular member upstream of the second annular member. An outer peripheral portion of the rupture disk is sandwiched between the first and second annular members; and, if a third annular member is present, (a) the second annular member is sandwiched between the outer peripheral portion of the rupture disk and the third annular member, and (b) the third annular member includes a fluid port aimed at the rupture disk. However, if the third annular member is not present, the second annular member includes a fluid port aimed at the rupture disk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Rohm and Haas Company
    Inventors: Michael Stanley DeCourcy, Connie Sue Williams, David Alec Williams
  • Publication number: 20090169298
    Abstract: A road plate securing assembly for a roadway surface includes an assembly frame comprising a plurality of assembly frame members adapted for attachment to the roadway surface and each comprising a first surface, a second surface disposed at an acute angle with respect to the first surface, a uni-planar inner surface extending from the first surface to the second surface and a plate opening defined by the assembly frame members. A road plate can be fitted in the plate opening to cover a repair or construction area on the roadway. A road plate securing method is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2007
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventor: Christopher Allen Lane
  • Publication number: 20090169299
    Abstract: The invention relates to a secured device for locking and unlocking a plug on a frame with a wrench. The device has an obstructing component that is mobile with respect to a plug and can be brought from an obstructing position to an unobstructing position in which the wrench can engage a rotor of a bolt when an identification code of the wrench, read by a reader, is in agreement with the code stored in an electronic module that is associated with the plug.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Applicant: NORINCO
    Inventor: Philippe Dutilleul
  • Patent number: 7540683
    Abstract: Provided herein are covers useful for covering the open end of an access conduit that may contain fluid control equipment. In one embodiment, a cover according to the invention comprises a disc-shaped base portion having a top surface and a bottom surface, with a plurality of groups of stability tangs attached to its bottom surface. A cover as provided herein is readily adaptable to fit a large number of conduit boxes, valve boxes and the like which are presently in common use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Inventor: Gary W. Salas
  • Patent number: 7537413
    Abstract: An adjustable manhole cover apparatus designed to fill a gap of any size or shape between a manhole and a resurfaced road pavement. The preferred embodiment provides a plastic bag filled with cement or heavy foam to fill the gap and an aluminum lid. The plastic bag prevents the filling from sticking to the pavement and manhole, while being heavy enough to support vehicles passing over the filling. Accordion-shaped versions provide accordion-shaped forms, with one incorporating a manhole cover, to be filled to eliminate the gap between a manhole cover and pavement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Inventor: Ricardo Brugos
  • Patent number: 7533499
    Abstract: A form assembly for use with a rough-in floor drain line, extending from a ground location prior to the pouring of a concrete aggregate. A body is constructed of a plasticized material and exhibits a three-dimensional outline with a height, width and depth and an open interior. The body further includes a bottom-most extending and encircling lip and an upper rim edge. The body is positioned so that the open interior surrounds the exposed floor drain line and a volume of a sand aggregate is filled into the open interior over and around the exposed drain. A lid is secured over the rim edge and a plurality of elongated and ground-securing stakes are engaged through apertures associated with the bottom extending said lip, in order to secure the body upon the ground location and to isolate the floor drain line from a volume of encircling and poured concrete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Inventors: Daniel J. Daigger, Rodney K. Moore, Marlow G. Clark
  • Publication number: 20090123227
    Abstract: A one-piece, unitary manhole cover has dual lifting ports that drain through the outer circumferential edge of the cover. A lifting channel runs from the interior of the upper face out to the outer circumferential edge. A lifting bar spans the lifting channel and defines an ergo lifting port and a pry bar lifting port. Both the ergo lifting port and the pry bar lifting port drain through the outer circumference of the manhole cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2007
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Applicant: EAST JORDAN IRON WORKS, INC.
    Inventors: Kevin S. Vrondran, Jeremy I. Johnson, Andrew J. Malpass
  • Publication number: 20090080972
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for closing an opening, particularly a man hole. The inventive device comprises a frame (4) and a cover (6) which is articulated to the frame (4) around a first axis (X-X) by means of a hinge (14). The device also comprises a locking means (16) having a locked configuration, whereby the cover is held open in a first position, and an unlocked configuration, whereby said cover (6) is disposed in a second position in which it can be pivoted around the axis (X-X). The aforementioned hinge (14) is designed such that, while resting on the frame, the cover (6) can pivot around a second horizontal axis (Y-Y). Moreover, the cover is pivoted around said second axis (Y-Y) in order to move same between the two positions. The invention is suitable for cast iron man holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Applicant: Saint Gobain PAM
    Inventors: Jean-Claude HAUER, Jean-Paul PIETRZAK
  • Publication number: 20090074509
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device and method for sealing a manhole structure. A band with a relatively rigid angled corner engages the upper margin of a manhole structure. Adhesives may also be used with the band to enhance the seal with the manhole structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicant: SSI PARTNERSHIP LLC
    Inventor: Paul H. Ess
  • Publication number: 20090060654
    Abstract: The lid stabilizing apparatus is principally directed to a structure which will resist a force on a lid which will tend to dislodge the lid from the structure which it covers. Of particular interest is the lid covering municipal water valve structures where such lids are repeatedly struck by vehicular traffic and are dislodged and thrown into the street. The downwardly extending rod with stabilizing and, where desired, n-stabilizing disks, will be in friction or near friction contact with the pipe which is upwardly directed from a valve accessed from the street surface. This friction or near friction contact will resist the dislodging of the valve lid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald E. Smith
  • Publication number: 20090049768
    Abstract: Disclosed is a grating, and more particularly a grating capable of easily and firmly fixing a second partition member to a frame member and a first partition member. This grating includes fixing projections formed at regular intervals along a longitudinal direction of the first partition members on both sides of the first partition member and on inner sides of the frame member that face a side of the first partition member; and second partition members installed between the first partition members and between the first partition member and the frame member respectively, the second partition members having insertion slots into which the fixing projections are inserted, the insertion slots being bent to subsequently contact with the first partition members facing each other or the first partition member and the frame member facing each other so that the fixing projections are inserted into the insertion slots.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2005
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventor: Sang-don Kim
  • Patent number: 7491010
    Abstract: This road manhole comprises a frame (4) which delimits an opening (6) and which is provided with an internal collar (8) which extends radially inwards, a cover (10) which comprises a blocking web (12) and a cylindrical skirt (14) which complements the internal collar (8), the blocking web and the skirt defining a concave corner (16), and a main gasket (18) which is arranged on the internal collar (8) and which is interposed in the closed state between the cover (10) and the frame (4). The road manhole (2) comprises an auxiliary gasket (20) which is in contact, at least in the closed state, with the concave corner (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Pam
    Inventors: Arnaud Cuny, Jacky Boca
  • Publication number: 20090038235
    Abstract: Covers for mounting onto upper edges of drainage channels or similar surface water drainage arrangements are well known, which are mounted onto the drainage channel by means of fixing devices. To simplify construction, storage and assembly it is proposed that the cover include a frame to which fixing means are attached and which includes devices for the retention and fixing of surface elements. The surface elements may be formed in various ways.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2005
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicant: ACO SEVERIN AHLMANN GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Michael Muller, Michael Sieber
  • Patent number: 7484908
    Abstract: A controllably releasable security locking arrangement for a manhole cover allows a manhole cover to be locked into position but allows the manhole cover to rise up in stages upon development of upward forces in an explosion to vent gases developed by the explosion. A lock body mounts a latch slide which has an outer end and which can be extended to prevent removal of the manhole cover. When a shear pin fails the lock body pivots down, to a limited extent, and a secondary shear pin can also be included allowing the cover to be blown completely free upon development of pressures of a great magnitude. A slotted skirt directs venting gas flow so as to retard the inflow of free air and attenuate the explosion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Inventor: David Stadler
  • Patent number: 7484909
    Abstract: A lightweight manhole cover assembly includes a cover and a base, with the cover including an inner surface having a plurality of ribs extending therefrom. The base includes an inner surface having a plurality of receptacles extending therefrom. The receptacles of the base have a layout that corresponds to the ribs of the cover, such that the ribs are adapted to be inserted into the receptacles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: GMI Composites, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert C. Brady, Aidan R. Brady
  • Patent number: 7467910
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing, transporting and installing on a building site a prefabricated structure made of reinforced concrete for the replacement of a structure such as a manhole, access chamber, access vault, junction box or other, which is buried in the ground and is part of an underground network such as a sewer, aqueduct, gas, electrical distribution, telecommunications, cable television and the like. In this method, concrete is poured in factory against the external surfaces of an integrated removable handling system, which is used as top part of a mold for manufacturing the prefabricated structure. The handling system is fixed to the prefabricated structure in a removable manner. The handling system remains in place during the subsequent steps of unmoulding, transporting and installing the prefabricated structure to the building site. Finally, once the installation is completed, the handling system is removed from the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Lecuyer & Fils LTEE
    Inventors: Maurice Lecuyer, Eric Dupont, Raymond Leblanc, Mario Robichaud, Jean-Françcois Lupien, Robert Tallard
  • Publication number: 20080310915
    Abstract: Provided herein are covers useful for covering the open end of an access conduit that may contain fluid control equipment. In one embodiment, a cover according to the invention comprises a disc-shaped base portion having a top surface and a bottom surface, with a plurality of groups of stability tangs attached to its bottom surface. A cover as provided herein is readily adaptable to fit a large number of conduit boxes, valve boxes and the like which are presently in common use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventor: Gary W. Salas
  • Publication number: 20080310914
    Abstract: Provided herein are covers useful for covering the open end of an access conduit that may contain fluid control equipment. A cover according to the invention comprises a disc-shaped base portion having a top surface and a bottom surface, with a plurality of risers attached to its bottom surface. There is a contact shoe associated with each of the risers, and the contact shoes have a curvature and are disposed sufficiently on the bottom surface of the base portion so as to exert an outward mechanical force against the inner wall of a conduit that is capped by a cover according to the invention, when such cover is in its installed position, thus providing a secure, yet conveniently removable access cover/conduit assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventor: Gary W. Salas
  • Patent number: 7455474
    Abstract: This invention is a device permitting a plug or a cover to lock in a detachable manner onto a frame. In accordance with the invention, the metal washer (9), interposed between the screw head (4) and the mounting surface (7) formed at the bottom of the housing (5) of the cover (2), includes two radial wings diametrically opposite (9a) working together with internal parts (13) of the housing (5) butting and preventing a rotation of the washer (9) during tightening of the fastening screw (3). The invention has applications for public roadways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Norinco
    Inventors: Philippe Tievant, Philippe Dutilleul
  • Patent number: 7448512
    Abstract: A device for closing an opening, particularly a man hole. The device includes a frame and a cover articulated to the frame around a first axis by a hinge. The device also includes a locking mechanism having a locked configuration, whereby the cover is held open in a first position, and an unlocked configuration, whereby the cover is disposed in a second position in which the cover can be pivoted around the first axis. The hinge is designed such that, while resting on the frame, the cover can pivot around a second horizontal axis. Moreover, the cover is pivoted around the second axis to move between the two positions. The device is suitable, e.g., for cast iron man holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Pam
    Inventors: Jean-Claude Hauer, Jean-Paul Pietrzak
  • Publication number: 20080260460
    Abstract: A manhole security device for securing a manhole access opening includes a circular barrier adapted to rest on a manhole cover support flange of a manhole frame. Locking members on the barrier are movable between a locked position in which the locking members are adapted to engage the manhole frame and an unlocked position in which the locking members are not adapted to engage the manhole frame. A biasing mechanism on the barrier is adapted to bias each locking member to its locked position. A rotatable locking mechanism on the barrier engages the locking members and has a locking rotational position wherein the locking members are in the locked position and an unlocking rotational position wherein the locking members are in the unlocked position. The locking mechanism has a security lock adapted to receive a security key that applies a rotational torque to the locking mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Applicant: McGard LLC
    Inventors: Eric R. Nolle, Jeffrey R. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 7438498
    Abstract: Security System for Sewer, Aqueduct, Telephone and Energy System Manhole Caps or Covers including an electromechanical cover (1), on the surface of which is placed an electromagnetic crane (2) that has a handle (3), and that has an emitting coil (4), a battery (5), an electronic card (6) and a control panel (7); inside a waterproof space at least partially enclosed by the electromechanical cover (1) are placed a receiving coil (8), electronic card (12) and two motors (9) that move a pin (10) that has bellows (11), and that are connected to an electronic card (12). The system operates by the emitting coil (4) transferring electromagnetic energy to the receiving coil (8), and at the same time sending an exclusive binary code.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: Micromotores Limitada
    Inventor: Dimosthenis Despiniadis
  • Publication number: 20080213043
    Abstract: Pick hole guards are provided for use in guarding pick holes on manhole covers. In some embodiments of the present invention, the pick hole guards can have a base, biasing member, and guard member. The biasing member can be attached to the base and guard member, and can bias the guard member toward a pick hole on the manhole cover to guard the pick hole. In other embodiments, the pick hole guards do not have movable guard members, but instead have retaining surfaces to serve as a receptacle for catching waste disposed through a pick hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Applicant: 6672205 CANADA INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Tina THOMPSON, Ted GILLIGAN
  • Publication number: 20080170908
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device and method for sealing a manhole structure. A band with a relatively rigid angled corner engages the upper margin of a manhole structure. Adhesives may also be used with the band to enhance the seal with the manhole structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Paul H. Ess
  • Publication number: 20080145147
    Abstract: This road manhole comprises a frame (4) which delimits an opening (6) and which is provided with an internal collar (8) which extends radially inwards, a cover (10) which comprises a blocking web (12) and a cylindrical skirt (14) which complements the internal collar (8), the blocking web and the skirt defining a concave corner (16), and a main gasket (18) which is arranged on the internal collar (8) and which is interposed in the closed state between the cover (10) and the frame (4). The road manhole (2) comprises an auxiliary gasket (20) which is in contact, at least in the closed state, with the concave corner (16).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Inventors: Arnaud Cuny, Jacky Boca
  • Publication number: 20080098662
    Abstract: The invention relates to a security manhole that is secured to the mouth of an underground pipe (4) including an edge (2) and a hinged cover (5) having rising cylinders (6), a peripheral sealing gasket (30) being provided for. The cover (5) includes an opening provided with a screw fixed lid (8), one of the screws compresses a first electrical contact (9) sending a warning signal to a control centre. Underneath the lid is provided a turning part (10) pulling in an angular fashion a closing handle (14) provided onto the edge. In the closed position, said handle (14) is located on top of the plate (18) integral with said edge (5), both having an access ramp providing automatic pre-closing. The closing position is provided through a second electrical contact (19). In the opening position, the closing handle (14) is retained by retention pawl (15) hinged to the edge (2). Release is provided through a screw (21) fixed to the cover (5) upon contact with said retention pawl (15).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2005
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventor: Martí Laffitte Figueras
  • Patent number: 7361834
    Abstract: A lightweight plastic cover for an electric handhole or pullbox having a plurality of vertical channels in a circular array at a radius about halfway from the center to the circumference. The channels allow the cover to bend when a large weight is applied and to rebound when the weight is removed. The cover may also have a second circle of vertical channels for strength nearer the center and horizontal channels crossing the center for added strength. The cover has a metal plate attached in the center for finding the cover with a metal detector and may also have a GPS device for locating it. The electric handhole or pullbox may have an open bottom portion with a ledge around the circumference for helping to set and maintain the electric handhole or pullbox at a desired depth. The cover may have extendable handles for ease of holding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: JDT Concepts, LLC
    Inventors: Julian P. Trangsrud, David E. Erickson
  • Publication number: 20080078127
    Abstract: A remotely actuated manhole system is disclosed having a cover that is pivotable relative to a frame secured with a collar on a bulk carrier, the cover being pivotable around a substantially vertical axis between and to open and closed positions. In the closed position covering an opening to a compartment in the bulk carrier, the cover is shiftable vertically between and to locked and unlocked positions by an inflatable seal member below the cover. The manhole system includes catches that prevent over-rotation of the cover from the open position to the closed position, and the catches engage in the locked position by the vertical upward movement of the cover. The inflation of the seal member and the pivoting of the cover are remotely actuated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventors: Simon Christopher Hill, David Stewart Miller
  • Publication number: 20080075532
    Abstract: A hole cover is provided for covering holes formed in the walking surfaces at construction job sites. The hole cover includes a cap having a top surface, a bottom surface and an edge. In addition, the cap includes a plurality of bores which project vertically from the cap's top surface to the bottom surface. The hole cover further includes a plurality of projections which are positioned within the bores. Each pin includes a head and shaft. The projections are sufficiently long so that once positioned within the bores, the projections extend downwardly so as to project into a construction site hole which is intended to be covered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Publication date: March 27, 2008
    Inventor: Louis Boyd
  • Patent number: 7347644
    Abstract: A multi-use adapter ring for converting the compatibility of an access opening of an underground on-site waste or drainage facility tank surface or component so as to receive a lower end of a riser component, in a tongue-and-groove type connection, to help achieve and maintain a vacuum tight, water-tight seal. The multi-use adapter ring has a first vertical cylindrical wall, a second vertical cylindrical wall having a height less than the first vertical cylindrical wall and spaced radially outwardly from the first vertical cylindrical wall, and a plurality of radially-extending ribs arranged between the first and second vertical cylindrical walls. An inner ledge is provided inwardly of the first vertical cylindrical wall. The first vertical cylindrical wall defines a male connection end to engage, in a substantially vacuum-tight manner, a female connection end of a riser component, such as a riser, a riser pan, or a riser cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Tuf-Tite, Inc.
    Inventor: Theodore W. Meyers
  • Patent number: 7347070
    Abstract: A locking access box cover includes an access box cover having a key aperture and a locking mechanism coupled to the access box cover. The locking mechanism includes a base plate, a guide plate coupled to the base plate and a rotating mechanism operatively coupled between the base plate and the guide plate. The rotating mechanism may be rotatable between a locked and an unlocked position and include a key hole corresponding to the key aperture of the cover. The locking mechanism may also include a lock rod operatively coupled to the rotating mechanism. The locking mechanism includes a lock bracket having an aperture for receiving the lock rod therethrough, wherein the rotation of the rotating mechanism produces translational movement of the at least one lock rod with respect to the base plate. The locking access box cover may also comprise a cap removably securable over the key aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Inventor: David Spector