Abstract: An access door is constituted by an outer framework adapted to be fitted in a rough opening formed in a building ceiling, wall, or the like, an inner framework set in an opening in the outer framework, a cover plate secured to the inner framework so as to close an opening in the inner framework, a pair of bearings and axis for pivotally connecting the inner framework to the outer framework, and a locking means for locking the inner framework to the outer framework when the inner framework closes the opening in the outer framework. The bearings are projected on one framework of the opposite inner surfaces of the outer framework and the opposite outer surfaces of the inner framework, and have U-shaped bearing surfaces. The axis are projected on another framework of the opposite inner surfaces of the outer surfaces of the inner framework, and pivotally supported to the bearings, respectively.

Abstract: An improved manhole structure is disclosed which comprises a cover having a rim inclined inwardly at 45.degree., on which a plurality of protrusions are provided; a ring for elevating the cover, having an upright inner wall and outer wall and an upper face and lower face, both inclined inwardly at 45.degree., on the said upper face a plurality of holes are formed for engagement with the protrusions formed on the cover, and on the said lower face a plurality of protrusions are formed; and a base having an upper surface inclined inwardly at 45.degree., and a flat lower face, on the said upper surface a plurality of holes are formed for engagement with the protrusions formed on the lower face of the said ring.

Abstract: A removable guttering assembly is disclosed for use in man-holes or air shafts to improve working conditions and to reduce the risk of water damage to equipment located in these holes or shafts. The guttering assembly consists of hooks or rails mounted around the lower end of the hole or shaft and a removable gutter, having substantially the same size as the perimeter of the lower end of the hole or shaft, which is quickly and easily attached to the hooks or rails. When fixed in position, the gutter collects water which enters the hole or shaft and directs it into a drain pipe preventing it from contacting men or equipment located in the hole or shaft.

Abstract: A manhole cover assembly comprises a seating ring which can be inset in a street or roadway surface and which is formed with a pair of lateral compartments in which respective latches of the plug-like cover can be received. According to the invention, the cover has a pair of opposing radial projections adapted to be received under respective projections of the ring upon rotation of the cover relative to the ring in bayonet action. Each of the latches is in the form of a pawl pivotal about a respective pin on the radial projection and adapted to swing so that a surface of the pawl substantially completely closes the compartment, flush with the upper surface of the ring and an end wall of the pawl abuts or is juxtaposed with the wall of the compartment to prevent rotation of the cover. The pawl can have flanges which, when the pawls are swung upwardly, form handles enabling the cover to be lifted from the ring.

Abstract: In a drainage inspection chamber of the kind having a manhole access and a base with at least one channel in the base extending between an inlet opening and an outlet opening, the base is formed from plastics material and has an integral side wall structure, circular openings in the side wall structure constituting the inlet and outlet openings. Separately formed socket members for receiving inlet and outlet pipes are located at each of the openings, each of the socket member being provided with a resilient sealing member for sealing with the outer surface of a pipe fitted into the socket member, the sealing member also serving simultaneously to seal the socket member with the internal surface of the inspection chamber.

Abstract: In a sewer manhole construction having a cylindrical bottom section adapted for placement within the ground at a pre-determined depth and having bottom and side walls, there being spaced inlet and outlet openings in the side wall above the bottom wall adapted to receive the ends of sewer conduits. The improvement which comprises a flooring upon the bottom wall including a plurality of pre-formed filler channel elements of polygonal shape and of uniform height which are mounted upon and around the bottom wall adjacent the side wall. Adjacent inner walls and opposing walls of the filler channel elements define a first channel which underlies and interconnects the inlet and outlet openings. Each channel element has a plurality of upright apertures therethrough. A layer of concrete fills the apertures and interstices between the channel elements and between the channel elements and side wall partly fills the first channel and overlies the channel elements extending the floor above the channel elements.

Abstract: This disclosure is concerned with apparatus for enabling extension or other leveling adjustment of manhole cover supporting structures and the like comprising extension spacer rings resiliently compressed in self-storing fashion adjacent a support sleeve portion of the supporting structure, and adapted to be forced downward from storage to expand into position below the sleeve to extend or adjust the level of the same.

Abstract: In the production and delivery of oil and/or gas from a well, a wellhead (10) is completely enclosed within a bunker (28) equipped with a sump line (30) and ladders (62). A top cover (36) encloses the upper end of the bunker (28) and is supported on structure (38). Vents (32) and (34) are included as a part of the top cover (36) to provide ventilation through the bunker (28).

Abstract: Valve box assembly having a valve box, having a riser threadingly mounted in the valve box for fine height adjustment, and having a cover for the riser.

Abstract: Manhole sealing device to prevent water from entering a manhole through the corbel joint between the manhole casing and cover frame. The device comprises a flexible tube like membrane spanning the corbel joint of the manhole and provided with first sealing means above the corbel joint to seal the membrane against the inside wall of the cover frame and second sealing means below the corbel joint to seal the flexible membrane against the inside wall of the manhole casing. The portion of the membrane between the first and second sealing means is preferably provided with enough slack to form a inward fold defining an annular pocket to contain any water or other fluids entering the manhole through the corbel joint thereof. In a preferred mode of the present invention the membrane is a bag with a closed bottom to catch any water entering the manhole through or around the manhole cover. The manhole sealing device can be installed in an existing manhole without replacing any of the structural parts thereof.

Abstract: A manway cover is formed using two like door panels made of lightweight, corrosion-resistant material which are hand operable from either side of the manway and can be installed without tools.

Abstract: An adjustable support for varying the height of a manhole cover after a street surface has been resurfaced is presented including vertically disposed posts in a downward position on each end of each adjustable section. These posts provide the location for bolts connecting adjacent ends of two adjustable sections so that the entire structure permits the units to be expanded and contracted to fit a plurality of different diameters of manholes. Also an upwardly extending radially outwardly positioned projection on the outer surface of the base member of the adjustable section ensures a more stable engagement of the base member of the adjustable section with the manhole housing on which it is adapted to rest.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device for capturing and retaining fluids such as gasoline which is split while filling a main storage tank, for example, in a gas station. The device includes a manhole having a floor through which the fill pipe for the main storage tank extends, an auxiliary or holding tank communicating with the manhole, and a valve and conduit associated with the holding tank to provide a fail-safe operation of the holding tank. Further, the main fill pipe is provided with a gasket at the juncture where it passes through the manhole floor constructed in such a manner that the standpipe can translate vertically within the hole disposed on the manhole floor due to seasonal change while the integrity of the gasket is still maintained.

Abstract: A multipiece prefabricated manhole assembly and method of making same. The manhole assembly is formed from a cured mixture of a polyester and fiberglass that may have the components thereof wholly or partially assembled in the field to rest on a manhole foundation to provide a manhole structure that is dimensionally stable and one that is substantially impervious to the corrosive action of sewage and gases emanating from the latter such as hydrogen sulphide, methane and the like.

Abstract: An adjustable manhole cover support. The support comprises an outer ring having a circular internal opening. Threaded members are disposed about the interior of the circular opening. An insert is dimensioned to fit within the outer ring to a depth controlled by the abutment of the insert against the threaded members. Studs engage and extend through the threaded members to abut the under surface of the insert to provide control of the depth of the insert into the outer ring and the angulation of the outer ring. The support is simple to make, easy to adjust and trouble-free in operation.

Abstract: An adjustable manhole is disclosed having telescoping tubular members which can be fixed in a number of relative axial positions. One member carries a series of transversely oriented ribs and grooves in the interface between the members, and the other member carries a smooth wall in the interface. Locking means are engageable in selected grooves to fix the relative positions of the members.

Abstract: A fitment for mounting on a vessel or tank constructed of reinforcing filaments such as glass or other fibers located in a resin matrix. The fitment includes a platform or top wall which is generally planar and has a pair of generally opposing rectilinear sides. The platform is adapted for supplying a fitting for a hose or nozzle which can be removably attached thereto. Two legs depend from the sides of the platform. A pipe also depends from the central portion of the platform. The ends of the pipe and legs are adapted for securement to the wall of a tank or vessel by bonding resin compatible with the resin of the fitment and the tank. The fitment is preferably constructed of layers of glass fiber reinforcing materials.

Abstract: A preformed concrete unitary manhole base section is formed with a polygonal exterior wall with a plurality of substantially flat faces each aligned in a different direction. Some of the faces are formed with cylindrical openings into which standard drain conduit end portions closely fit. Compressible annular seals between the opening walls and the end portions effect a watertight seal between the section and the conduits. Interior flow contours are formed within the section between the openings. Separate plural handling and alignment facilitating means are formed in the exterior wall.

Abstract: An enclosure for housing industrial equipment and which is adapted to be buried underground. The enclosure includes at least two sections having a common top wall and floor. Each of the sections includes vertically extending sidewalls that are curved outwardly to define a generally convex outer surface. The sections are disposed adjacent to each other along an elongation axis with sidewalls of adjacent sections joined to each other along substantially vertical lines to define an enclosed equipment chamber. The present invention also includes a modular enclosure incorporating at least two modular members that are adapted to be joined together with each modular member including at least one section with a top wall, floor, and outwardly sidewalls. An opening is provided in the sidewall of each modular member and is defined by generally vertical seams. An apparatus is provided for joining the modular members together along mating vertical seams to define an enclosed chamber.

Abstract: An improved method of manufacturing a concrete manhole casing and plugs for use therein. The method comprises fabricating a form for the manhole and securing a plurality of retractable arbors on the inside thereof. The arbors are extended through the form and a sealed plug is inserted on the end of each arbor. The concrete is poured into the form; vibrated and compacted. The arbors are withdrawn leaving the sealed plugs in place. The plugs carry a threading on their periphery and a novel locking structure on the inside surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and device for arranging a storage area in a construction comprising a generally concrete layer in the form of a flagstone, by which it rests on the ground, wherein an opening is cut out in said layer, through which a well is bored in the ground, after which a prefabricated element defining said storage area is disposed in said well. The invention is more particularly applicable to the production of storage areas in constructions not comprising any.

Abstract: A manhole cover elevating and support ring adapted to be placed within an existing manhole frame for raising the height of a manhole cover, and a method of installing the same. A circular ring is roll formed of metal bar stock with a predetermined size gap. An improved adjustable link is force-fitted within the ring gap to expand the ring outwardly into abutting clamping engagement with an annular wall of a manhole frame to securely mount the ring therein. The improved method includes the steps of radially compressing the ring and restraining the ring in this compressed position. The ring then is placed within a manhole frame opening. The restraining means is removed and the ring expands outwardly toward its normal uncompressed position, thereby clamping itself tightly against the manhole frame. The improved adjustable link and a spring biased keeper also may be installed within the ring gap to insure its clamping engagement with the manhole frame.

Abstract: A transformer unit comprising a transformer, a ground level base pad having a vertical cable opening therethrough, and an open top, open bottom vertical cable vault situated in the earth, the upper end thereof being received in the pad opening to provide easy access to and training room for underground electrical cables connected to the transformer.

Abstract: A liquid-tight manhole closure structure including a base frame having a manhole opening therein, a manhole cover for placement in the manhole opening, and a retainer ring for detachably securing the cover on the frame. The retainer ring and frame having peripheral coacting, detachably interlocking, cam surfaces for removably securing the ring to the frame. A resilient sealant is disposed between the cover and the frame to prevent liquid seepage through the manhole opening. The sealant may be vulcanized or otherwise secured directly to the periphery of the cover and/or to the frame.

Abstract: An expanding fixture for securing an element to a wall or ceiling by securing the element to a bore in the wall or ceiling. The element includes a hollow end portion and an expanding piece adapted to fit within the hollow end for expansion thereof after insertion into the bore. The expanding piece includes at one end thereof two oppositely extending end sections which do not enter the bore and rest on the surface of the wall or ceiling and at the other end of the expanding piece, there is provided an expansion member to press the walls of the hollow section against the wall of the bore. A hammering device which is adapted to fit over the element away from the portion thereof which enters the bore to press the extension member and hollow section when in the bore together to provide a tight fitting engagement between the wall of the bore and the outer wall of the hollow section.

Abstract: Plastic extender rings for manholes are produced by molding as a unitary member or extrusion or in molded segments and are seated by the use of caulking or other adhesive material. The manhole cover, which is elevated by the plastic ring from the old pavement level to a new pavement level, is rendered more silent to traffic and is seated more evenly. Plastics are employed which will not melt at the application temperature of asphalt but will soften somewhat to conform better to the contour of the manhole cover and/or underlying manhole top ring. Plastic fillers may be employed in the product to regulate plasticity and increase resistance to deterioration from the elements and from ultraviolet.

Abstract: A cistern pumping plant having within a cistern at least one pump which for the purpose of maintenance and repairs is liftable along guides up onto a servicing platform in the cistern. The servicing platform and/or a part thereof is a plate hinged to the cistern and turnable to an opened position.

Abstract: A support frame for a man-hole cover or similar article of highway furniture has a vertical wall portion with an outwardly extending flange at one end. Support means for the cover on the inside of the flange is so arranged that the frame can be mounted either with the flange at the upper end of the wall or with the flange at the lower end of the wall, the top of the cover being level with the top of the frame in both cases. When the frame is mounted with the flange at the upper end, the frame is "self-levelling".

Abstract: This invention pertains to a method and apparatus whereby, when a thoroughfare is to be resurfaced, the covers for the openings that extend downwardly beneath such thoroughfares may be raised to a level corresponding to the raised level of the resurfaced thoroughfare. Such raising is accomplished without the need for digging up the framework that supported the cover.

Abstract: A method for inhibiting movement between a load bearing access device, such as a manhole cover or catch basin grate and its supporting framework which involves drilling a plurality of vertical passageways at spaced apart intervals adjacent to the circumference of said access device, said passageways also extending into said supporting framework, and fixing vertical studs in said passageways.

Abstract: An adjustable brace for securing the cap portion of a catch basin used in sewer systems to enable such cap portions to remain in place during continuous pouring of curb and gutter.

Abstract: A catch basin may be retrofit for isolating/diverting spills and/or initial storm runoff for the subsequent treatment or recycling of the collected material. A sloping, peripheral trough is provided in the catch basin and is connected to one or more storage or recovery tanks or the like. A plurality of catch basins may be provided with troughs connected to one or more common storage or recovery tanks.

Abstract: A new and improved method for forming a drainage structure, such as a manhole for a subterranean sewer pipe. In a first embodiment, a removable outer form is positioned in an excavation in the earth extending to the sewer pipe so that the earth surrounding the sewer may be undercut and removed through the removable outer form. Concrete is poured into the undercut area surrounding the sewer pipe to a height adjacent the lower edge of the outer form and a second cylindrical inner form is positioned within the outer form so that concrete may be poured into the space between the forms to form upwardly extending wall portions to the surface. In a second embodiment, the outer form is positioned in an excavation at a predetermined location and a concrete base portion is formed. The inner form is positioned in the outer form and predetermined quantities of sand are poured into the space between the forms for facilitating connection with sewer pipes.

Abstract: A modular cable trench system for receiving cable in a trench excavated in the earth. The system includes one or more tee and/or channel elements of lightweight modular construction, with each of the molded modular units including a bottom frame and opposed side plates secured to opposite side edges of the bottom frame with both side plates and bottom frame molded of lightweight material. Transverse reinforcing elements extend between the side plates at ends of the bottom frame and are molded integrally with the side plates and bottom frame. The geometric configuration of the bottom frame and transverse reinforcing elements is selected to minimize the weight of each modular unit. A removable cover plate engages the upper edges of the side plates in each unit.

Abstract: A manhole or a catch basin is built up by stacking a number of pre-cast concrete units. The joints between the units are provided, prior to stacking, with a bead of a non-hardening, semi-liquid, mastic waterproof layer to enable subsequent removal of the units without damaging same. The pre-cast concrete unit of this invention is typical by having cutouts in the side wall and corresponding protrusions extending from one face thereof. Hand or tool receiving depressions are provided in one surface of the unit to facilitate the handling of the unit when increasing or reducing the overall height of a manhole. The shape of the unit not only facilitates the production of same but also assists in convenient handling. Due to generally smooth faces, the steaming-off of the waterproof layer prior to the storage of a removed unit is also facilitated.

Abstract: A manhole-pit lining is formed of a base, a tubular middle portion, and a top to which a manhole cover is fittable. The base is custom-made in accordance with the particular requirements of the pit being lined. The middle tube provided with pipe connections is then fitted over this base with the pipe connections aligned with the trough formed in the base and is secured thereto by means of an epoxy resin. The middle and base are then placed in an excavation and the pipe connections on the middle are hooked up to the pipes to be joined at the manhole pit. The cover is secured to the top and the excavation is then backfilled. The entire assembly is made of waterproof reinforced concrete and the middle tube itself may be constituted as a standard waterproof pipe section.

Abstract: A manhole cover support ring adapted to be placed within an existing manhole frame for raising the height of a manhole cover. A circular ring is formed by a generally vertically extending flange having an annular bar welded on its lower end which provides an inwardly extending manhole cover support ledge. The flange and bar are split at a common point on their peripheries. A toggle mechanism is pivotally mounted on at least one of the spaced ends of the bar and is operatively engageable with the other bar end. Actuation of the toggle mechanism to an over center position expands the ring flange into abutting relationship with a complementary circular portion of the manhole frame which forms the manhole opening to secure the support ring on the manhole frame. The toggle mechanism includes a pivotally mounted bolt which is threadably engaged with a portion of one of the toggle levers for adjusting the outward expansion limit of the ring.

Abstract: A segmented cylindrical reinforced plastic manhole structure comprising a cylindrical body surmounted by a transition element. The transition element is adapted to support a conventional manhole cover and frame assembly and has an opening closable by the manhole cover. The manhole structure body comprises a plurality of curved, nestable segments of cast or molded reinforced plastic material. Each segment is provided with vertical side edges configured to provide an interlocking joint between it and an adjacent segment and the segments may be so sized as to require two, three or more segments to complete the circumference of the manhole structure body. Each segment is provided with horizontal top and bottom edges configured to provide an interlocking joint between it and an adjacent segment thereabove or therebelow so that the segments may be arranged in tiers to provide a manhole structure body of desired height.

Abstract: This manhole consists primarily of a cast and internally threaded main body, which receives a cast and internally threaded sleeve, which may be raised to different pavement levels by means of a removable spanner wrench. It includes a pair of diametrically opposed and slidable locking plates, which have pin means on the underside for being received within openings on the upper interior of the sleeve, and the upper portion of the plates projects outwards of the sleeve, so as to lock the sleeve and cover within the main body, thus preventing rotation thereof, the plates when the sleeve is lowered or elevated, serving as a means of rendering the sleeve and cover stationary at various pavement levels.

Abstract: An adjustable manhole frame assembly for underground conduits, catch basins, or the like, in which telescoped upper and lower frames include screw fasteners engaging in vertically-angulated slots for adjusting the frames axially and angularly to orient the top frame and its cover in relation to an upper surface such as the running surface of a street, or the like.

Abstract: A flat outer frame is provided with an edge-section for receiving a single-piece manhole cover which has three projections located at the apices of a triangle and adapted to rest on the edge-section so as to form a horizontal bearing triangle. Means are provided for locking the cover within the frame so as to prevent tilting of the cover about any one side of the bearing triangle under the action of a downwardly directed force applied to the cover externally of the triangle.

Abstract: A sewage grinder pump and access manway assemblage comprising a lower collection tank having a watertight and airtight cover and at least one sewage grinder pump unit suspended from a top cover plate for the collection tank and extending into the tank for grinding and pumping under pressure sewage collected in the tank. An integral manway housing member fabricated from fiberglass or other similar non-corrosive material is mounted over the collection tank and has enough enclosed space to accommodate a workman. The bottom cross-sectional dimensions of the manway housing member are slightly less than the cross-sectional dimensions of the collection tank. The collection tank has an upper peripheral wall section which coacts with a corresponding lower peripheral wall section of the manway housing member for securing the manway housing member and the collection tank together in a substantially airtight and watertight manner.

Abstract: A pre-cast, reinforced concrete manhole riser is provided with a precisely aligned porthole for a sewer pipe, by cutting the hole on the site, the resulting smooth-faced, unobstructed porthole being sealed by a flexible collar having one end clamped on the pipe and having a flange at the other end adhered to the riser around the cut hole. Apparatus for cutting the hole, on the site, clamps on the upper rim of the riser, there being a cutter and carriage which move relative to a clamped frame.

Abstract: A grade-level enclosure for transformers and other electrical apparatus used in utility electric distribution systems, comprising a hollow, open-ended concrete box adapted to be partially embedded in the ground and to extend above ground level, and an open-bottomed cover for the box, whereby to complete the enclosure for the electrical apparatus, special provisions being made for supporting the apparatus in the enclosure, ventilating the enclosure interior efficiently, but preventing the insertion of foreign objects through the ventilation openings, and rendering access for installation, maintenance and servicing of the equipment easy and convenient, while at the same time providing a high degree of security against tampering or entry by unauthorized persons, and a high degree of safety against electrical shock or other injury.

Abstract: This device consists primarily of a molded plastic structure having flange mounting means for mounting the structure to the basement wall. The device includes a window portion on a vertical plane adjacent to a hinged top bubble which enables more light to be admitted into the basement and serves as a quick escape means from a basement in the event of fire or a severe storm, and the interior of the structure includes step means molded therein for the user to easily climb out through the pivotable bubble top thereof.

Abstract: A floor hatch including an outer framework adapted to be installed in a floor of a building and having an abutment face at the upper end of the inner surface of the framework and a cover assembly fitted in the outer framework, said cover assembly including an inner framework having an abutment face at the upper end of the outer surface of the inner framework for abutting against the abutment face on the outer framework and a cover member attached to the inner framework for closing the opening in the inner framework, whereby the cover assembly is fitted and supported in the outer framework.

Abstract: An underground reinforced plastic enclosure comprising a vertically and circumferentially stiffened body. The body is made of a fiberglass polyester resin and the stiffeners are of a reinforced plastic mortar. The body is suitable for surrounding a transformer or an oil switch used in underground utilities. On the body is seated a top cap made of reinforced plastic mortar. The top cap is formed with a central opening. Seated on the top cap is a reinforced plastic mortar cover plate or a metal grate. Depending from the top cap is a fiberglass polyester resin baffle and tamper shield. The body seats on a base of reinforced plastic mortar. A grade adjustment skirt also depends from the top cap outwardly from the baffle and tamper shield.

Abstract: A preformed manhole suitable for use underground is made of reinforced plastic. The manhole comprises a dome section integrally joined at one end of a tubular body by an endless band of reinforced plastic. The dome is arcuately shaped to provide resistance to buckling, and in one specific embodiment is generally hemispherical. The dome includes a manway and a load bearing shoulder for supporting the manhole cover and frame. An upwardly extending rib or collar is provided around the manway to provide additional stiffness and stability.The method for making the preformed manhole is also disclosed. The tubular body is made by applying resin, glass fiber reinforcement, and particulate filler on an endlessly advancing mandrel. The dome is made by applying resin and glass fibers on the surface of a rotating mold. The dome and body are joined by laying-up resin and glass over their mated ends.

Abstract: A preformed manhole suitable for use underground is made of reinforced plastic. The manhole comprises a dome section integrally joined at one end of a tubular body by an endless band of reinforced plastic. The dome is arcuately shaped to provide resistance to buckling, and in one specific embodiment is generally hemispherical. The dome includes a manway and a load bearing shoulder for supporting the manhole cover and frame. An upwardly extending rib or collar is provided around the manway to provide additional stiffness and stability.The method for making the preformed manhole is also disclosed. The tubular body is made by applying resin, glass fiber reinforcement, and particulate filler on an endlessly advancing mandrel. The dome is made by applying resin and glass fibers on the surface of a rotating mold. The dome and body are joined by laying-up resin and glass over their mated ends.

Abstract: A transformer unit comprising a transformer, a ground level base pad having a vertical cable opening therethrough, and an open top, open bottom vertical cable vault situated in the earth, the upper end thereof being received in the pad opening to provide easy access to and training room for underground electrical cables connected to the transformer.