CA2452823C - Flush-mounted retractable lid - Google Patents
Flush-mounted retractable lid Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2452823C CA2452823C CA2452823A CA2452823A CA2452823C CA 2452823 C CA2452823 C CA 2452823C CA 2452823 A CA2452823 A CA 2452823A CA 2452823 A CA2452823 A CA 2452823A CA 2452823 C CA2452823 C CA 2452823C
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- lid
- enclosure
- flush
- closed position
- rollers
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Classifications
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02D—FOUNDATIONS; EXCAVATIONS; EMBANKMENTS; UNDERGROUND OR UNDERWATER STRUCTURES
- E02D29/00—Independent underground or underwater structures; Retaining walls
- E02D29/12—Manhole shafts; Other inspection or access chambers; Accessories therefor
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
- Paleontology (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Laying Of Electric Cables Or Lines Outside (AREA)
Abstract
A flush-mounted lid for an in-ground enclosure such as an irrigation service vault utilizes co-operating rollers arid rails to retract the lid to an opened position. A hydraulic shock aids in lifting tree lid to facilitate rolling the lid to the opened position. A safety knob connected via a cable to a latch cam permits a user to engage the cam with a stop which arrests movement of the lid and retains the lid in the open position until such time as the safety knob is released. A latching mechanism prevents opening of the lid until released.
Description
1 "FLUSH-MOUNTED RETRACTABLE LID"
2
3 FIELD OF THE INVENTION
4 Embodiments of the invention are directed towards lids, mounted flush with an upper surface of an enclosure, and more particularly to lids that are 6 retractable therefrom for access to the enclosure.
9 It is known to provide lids for enclosures which may be retracted to provide limited or temporary access to the enclosure. This is particularly true of 11 large enclosures to house equipment and the like which must be accessed 12 intermittently and which must be otherwise protected from access by 13 unauthorized personnel.
14 More particularly, for enclosures such as irrigation service vaults which are sunk into the earth, the lids are preferably mounted flush to the top of 16 the vault to remove hazards from tripping if raised above the vault edge and to 17 prevent buildup of dirt and the like if recessed into the top of the vault.
Further, 18 flush-mounted lids permit use of retraction apparatus, co-operating between the 19 lid and the vault, to temporarily remove the lid from the vault.
It is preferable that the lid, in a closed position over the vault, can 21 be secured thereto. It is also preferable that when the lid is in the retracted or 22 open position, the lid can be held open and not readily closed without 23 manipulation, to prevent injury to personnel who might be inside the vault 24 performing servicing of the equipment therein 1 Further, it is preferable that the lid be of a manageable size and 2 weight so that authorized personnel can more easily manipulate the lid between 3 the closed and the retracted positions, as required.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
6 Figure 1 is a cutaway side view of an in-ground enclosure, such as 7 an irrigation service vault, having a flush-mounted retractable lid according to an 8 embodiment of the present invention, the lid shown in a closed position in solid 9 lines and in an opened position in dotted lines;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the vault according to Fig. 1, 11 having the lid in the opened positioned, a pair of lid roller rails illustrated in 12 dashed lines on an underside;
13 Figure 3a is a partial inside view of an end wall of the vault having 14 a retraction apparatus mounted thereon for engaging the lid roller rails on the lid;
Figure 3b is a side view of an end wall of the vault according to Fig.
16 3a illustrating the actuation apparatus mourted thereon;
17 Figure 4a is a side view of a retraction apparatus operable between 18 the lid and the vault and shown with the lid in a closed position;
19 Figure 4b is a side view according to Fig. 4a shown with the lid in an opened position;
21 Figures 5a-c illustrate the lid according to Fig.1. More particularly, 22 Figure 5a is a side view of the lid, 23 Figure 5b is a plan view of the lid, and 1 Figure 5c is a bottom view of the lid illustrating lid roller rails 2 adapted to co-operate with the retraction apparatus according to Figs. 4a 3 and 4b;
4 Figure 6a is a side view of an actuation and latching mechanism accessible from a top of the lid, illustrating a latching and actuation handle and a 6 safety release actuation knob;
7 Figure 6b is a bottom view of the lid according to Fig. 5c illustrating 8 a connection between the safety release a,Dtuation knob and the safety release 9 mechanism;
Figure 6c is a detailed side view of one side of the safety release 11 mechanism and an option backup safety pir;
12 Figure 7 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of the 13 invention having a two-part lid each of the lid portions being retractable in 14 opposing directions;
Figure 8a is a plan view of an enclosure according to Fig. 1, having 16 the lid removed;
17 Figure 8b is a cross-sectiona view of the enclosure according to 18 Fig. 1;
19 Figure 9 is an end view of the enclosure of Fig. 8a;
Figure 10a is a plan view of a recessed lid handle and a latch 21 handle formed therein;
22 Figure 10b is a plan view of a cover for a latch handle according to 23 Fig. 10a;
1 Figure 11a is a plan view of the enclosure according to Fig. 1 2 having the lid in a closed position; and 3 Figure 11 b is a cross-sectional view of the enclosure lid according 4 to Fig. 11 a.
7 A flush-mounted lid for an in-5 round enclosure utilizes co-operating 8 rollers and rails to move the lid between an open and a closed position.
9 Retraction of the lid is aided by a retraction mechanism which incorporates a pivoting arm to extend the rollers, the arm being connected to the enclosure and 11 actuated by a hydraulic shock which acts to move the lid to a lifted position from 12 which it can be rolled to the retracted and open position. Further, the arm is 13 pivoted to a lowered position to lower the lid onto the enclosure in the closed 14 position wherein the lid is mounted flush to the ground.
In order to maintain the lid in the opened position and to protect 16 individuals entering the enclosure to perform servicing and the like, the lid further 17 comprises means which are actuated to maintain the lid in the opened position 18 and which can be released to permit closing of the lid once the servicing is 19 complete.
In a broad aspect, a flush-mounted lid for an in-ground enclosure 21 comprises a substantially flat plate for forming the lid; a retraction apparatus 22 having one or more rollers pivotally connected between an end wall of the 23 enclosure and engaging one or more rails extending axially along an underside 24 of the lid for permitting movement of the lid between a closed position wherein 1 the lid substantially covers the enclosure arid is substantially flush with a surface 2 of the ground and a lifted position wherein the lid can be retracted substantially 3 axially from the enclosure to an open (position; and means for releasably 4 engaging the lid in the open position for temporarily preventing the lid from movement to the closed position.
6 One such means for releasably engaging the lid is a latch cam 7 which is releasably actuable to engage a lid stop connected to the enclosure, 8 which when actuated causes the cam to erigage the stop to prevent the lid from 9 being moved to the closed position. In a preferred embodiment, a release cable extends transversely across the underside of the lid and is connected to a safety 11 release knob by an actuation rod. At leas: one latch cam is connected to the 12 release cable such that when the safety release knob is turned to a first latched 13 position, the at least one latch cam engages at least one lid stop preventing the 14 lid from being closed. When required, the safety release knob can be turned to a second position to release the latch cams - rom the lid stops to permit the lid to 16 be closed.
17 Further, the lid has a latching mechanism for maintaining the lid in 18 the closed position and for preventing access to the enclosure. The latching 19 mechanism comprises a latch handle having a hook which is pivotally connected thereto and which when the handle is pushed down engages a loop on the 21 enclosure. When the handle is lifted, the hook pivots to release the loop on the 22 enclosure and the lid can be retracted.
9 It is known to provide lids for enclosures which may be retracted to provide limited or temporary access to the enclosure. This is particularly true of 11 large enclosures to house equipment and the like which must be accessed 12 intermittently and which must be otherwise protected from access by 13 unauthorized personnel.
14 More particularly, for enclosures such as irrigation service vaults which are sunk into the earth, the lids are preferably mounted flush to the top of 16 the vault to remove hazards from tripping if raised above the vault edge and to 17 prevent buildup of dirt and the like if recessed into the top of the vault.
Further, 18 flush-mounted lids permit use of retraction apparatus, co-operating between the 19 lid and the vault, to temporarily remove the lid from the vault.
It is preferable that the lid, in a closed position over the vault, can 21 be secured thereto. It is also preferable that when the lid is in the retracted or 22 open position, the lid can be held open and not readily closed without 23 manipulation, to prevent injury to personnel who might be inside the vault 24 performing servicing of the equipment therein 1 Further, it is preferable that the lid be of a manageable size and 2 weight so that authorized personnel can more easily manipulate the lid between 3 the closed and the retracted positions, as required.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
6 Figure 1 is a cutaway side view of an in-ground enclosure, such as 7 an irrigation service vault, having a flush-mounted retractable lid according to an 8 embodiment of the present invention, the lid shown in a closed position in solid 9 lines and in an opened position in dotted lines;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the vault according to Fig. 1, 11 having the lid in the opened positioned, a pair of lid roller rails illustrated in 12 dashed lines on an underside;
13 Figure 3a is a partial inside view of an end wall of the vault having 14 a retraction apparatus mounted thereon for engaging the lid roller rails on the lid;
Figure 3b is a side view of an end wall of the vault according to Fig.
16 3a illustrating the actuation apparatus mourted thereon;
17 Figure 4a is a side view of a retraction apparatus operable between 18 the lid and the vault and shown with the lid in a closed position;
19 Figure 4b is a side view according to Fig. 4a shown with the lid in an opened position;
21 Figures 5a-c illustrate the lid according to Fig.1. More particularly, 22 Figure 5a is a side view of the lid, 23 Figure 5b is a plan view of the lid, and 1 Figure 5c is a bottom view of the lid illustrating lid roller rails 2 adapted to co-operate with the retraction apparatus according to Figs. 4a 3 and 4b;
4 Figure 6a is a side view of an actuation and latching mechanism accessible from a top of the lid, illustrating a latching and actuation handle and a 6 safety release actuation knob;
7 Figure 6b is a bottom view of the lid according to Fig. 5c illustrating 8 a connection between the safety release a,Dtuation knob and the safety release 9 mechanism;
Figure 6c is a detailed side view of one side of the safety release 11 mechanism and an option backup safety pir;
12 Figure 7 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of the 13 invention having a two-part lid each of the lid portions being retractable in 14 opposing directions;
Figure 8a is a plan view of an enclosure according to Fig. 1, having 16 the lid removed;
17 Figure 8b is a cross-sectiona view of the enclosure according to 18 Fig. 1;
19 Figure 9 is an end view of the enclosure of Fig. 8a;
Figure 10a is a plan view of a recessed lid handle and a latch 21 handle formed therein;
22 Figure 10b is a plan view of a cover for a latch handle according to 23 Fig. 10a;
1 Figure 11a is a plan view of the enclosure according to Fig. 1 2 having the lid in a closed position; and 3 Figure 11 b is a cross-sectional view of the enclosure lid according 4 to Fig. 11 a.
7 A flush-mounted lid for an in-5 round enclosure utilizes co-operating 8 rollers and rails to move the lid between an open and a closed position.
9 Retraction of the lid is aided by a retraction mechanism which incorporates a pivoting arm to extend the rollers, the arm being connected to the enclosure and 11 actuated by a hydraulic shock which acts to move the lid to a lifted position from 12 which it can be rolled to the retracted and open position. Further, the arm is 13 pivoted to a lowered position to lower the lid onto the enclosure in the closed 14 position wherein the lid is mounted flush to the ground.
In order to maintain the lid in the opened position and to protect 16 individuals entering the enclosure to perform servicing and the like, the lid further 17 comprises means which are actuated to maintain the lid in the opened position 18 and which can be released to permit closing of the lid once the servicing is 19 complete.
In a broad aspect, a flush-mounted lid for an in-ground enclosure 21 comprises a substantially flat plate for forming the lid; a retraction apparatus 22 having one or more rollers pivotally connected between an end wall of the 23 enclosure and engaging one or more rails extending axially along an underside 24 of the lid for permitting movement of the lid between a closed position wherein 1 the lid substantially covers the enclosure arid is substantially flush with a surface 2 of the ground and a lifted position wherein the lid can be retracted substantially 3 axially from the enclosure to an open (position; and means for releasably 4 engaging the lid in the open position for temporarily preventing the lid from movement to the closed position.
6 One such means for releasably engaging the lid is a latch cam 7 which is releasably actuable to engage a lid stop connected to the enclosure, 8 which when actuated causes the cam to erigage the stop to prevent the lid from 9 being moved to the closed position. In a preferred embodiment, a release cable extends transversely across the underside of the lid and is connected to a safety 11 release knob by an actuation rod. At leas: one latch cam is connected to the 12 release cable such that when the safety release knob is turned to a first latched 13 position, the at least one latch cam engages at least one lid stop preventing the 14 lid from being closed. When required, the safety release knob can be turned to a second position to release the latch cams - rom the lid stops to permit the lid to 16 be closed.
17 Further, the lid has a latching mechanism for maintaining the lid in 18 the closed position and for preventing access to the enclosure. The latching 19 mechanism comprises a latch handle having a hook which is pivotally connected thereto and which when the handle is pushed down engages a loop on the 21 enclosure. When the handle is lifted, the hook pivots to release the loop on the 22 enclosure and the lid can be retracted.
5 2 Having reference to Figs. 1-6c and in an embodiment of the 3 invention, an enclosure 1 is situated in-grDund. The enclosure 1, such as an 4 irrigation service vault, is adapted to house contents 2, such as equipment, piping valving and the like which must be accessed periodically for servicing and
6 inspection. A lid 3 is flush-mounted to the vault 1 and is retractable thereon from
7 a closed position to an open position to gain access to the vault's contents 2.
8 The vault 1 comprises at leas: sides 4 and end walls 5 which form
9 an open bottomed vault 1. One or more support struts 6 are positioned at a base 7 of the side walls 4 to support and space the side walls 4 from one another.
11 Preferably, the struts are removable during servicing or inspection to gain access 12 to the vault's contents 2 as required.
13 As shown in Figs. 3a-b, a retraction apparatus 10 is mounted on at 14 least one of the vault's end walls 5 and is operable between the vault 1 and the lid 3, for retracting the lid 3 between an opened and a closed position.
16 As detailed in Figs. 3a-b and 4a-b, the retraction apparatus 17 comprises one or more lid roller rails 11 mounted axially on an underside 12 of 18 the lid. One or more lid rollers 13 are mounted on one or more upwardly 19 extending arms 15 which are pivotally mounted adjacent an edge 14 of the vault 1 for engaging and co-operating with the one or more lid roller rails 11 to permit 21 the lid 3 to be rolled between the open and closed positions. Preferably, two lid 22 roller rails 11 and two rollers 13 are used.
23 A hydraulic shock, such as a gas shock 16, is connected to each of 24 the roller mounting arms 15 causing the roller arms 15 to pivot when the gas 1 shock 16 is actuated to bias the lid 3 to a lifted position which aids in retraction of 2 the lid 3 from the vault 1 to the opened position. Normally, the gas shock 16 is in 3 the actuated position as shown in Fig. 4a. Pressure on the lid 3, during the final 4 stages of closing the lid 3, causes each gas shock 16 to move to a lowered position enabling latching of the lid 3 in the closed position.
6 As the lid 3 moves to the opened position, as shown in Fig. 4b, 7 each gas shock 16 extends, permitting further pivoting of the roller arms 15, 8 maintaining the one or more lid rollers in the one or more lid roller rails 11.
9 Having reference to Figs. 5a-6c, the lid 3 comprises a substantially flat plate 20 to which the lid roller rails 11 are mounted on the underside 12. A lid 11 handle 30 is situated at an end 31 of the lid 3. The lid handle 30 is recessed 12 towards the underside 12 of the lid 3 and ccntains a latching mechanism 40.
The 13 latching mechanism 40 comprises a latch handle 41 pivotally attached to a hook 14 42 which releasable engages the vault 1. As the latch handle 41 is lifted within the lid handle 30, the hook 42 is released from the vault 1 permitting the lid 3 to 16 be retracted. Similarly, when the lid 3 has been completely closed, the latch 17 handle 41 is pushed downward into the lid handle 30 causing the hook 42 to 18 engage the vault 1, locking the lid 3 thereto. Typically, the hook 42 engages a 19 loop 43 attached to the vault 1.
A safety release knob 50 extends into the lid handle 30 and is 21 connected by an actuation rod 51 to a release cable 52 extending transversely 22 across the lid 3 adjacent a rear of the lid 3. A pair of latch cams 53 are attached, 23 one to either end of the release cable 52, and act to maintain the lid 3 in the 24 opened position during servicing and inspection by engaging the vault 1 and 1 preventing the lid 3 from moving. When servicing is begun, the personnel rotate 2 the safety release knob 50 to a first latched position or the latch cams 53 are 3 spring-biased to the latched position, to engage the latch cams 53 with the vault 4 1 at a lid stop 54. When the servicing is complete, the personnel rotate the safety release knob 50 to a second position which tensions the cable 52 and releases 6 the latch cams 53 from the vault 1. Once the latch cams 53 are released the lid 3 7 can be actuated to the closed position.
8 Optionally, as shown in Fig. 6c, a safety pin 60 may be dropped 9 into a hole 61 in an edge of the vault 1 such that the pin 60 acts as a safety backup for the lid stop 54, further preventing the lid 3 from closing until the safety 11 pin 60 is removed.
12 As shown in Fig. 7, optionally the lid 3 may comprise at least two 13 portions 3a, 3b, each having retraction apparatus and being retractable from the 14 vault 1 in different, preferably opposing, directions.
Having reference again to Figs 1 and 2, the lid 3 is supported and 16 guided during axial movement of the lid 3, between the open and closed 17 positions. Guide rollers 17 are positioned at an end 18 of the lid 3 opposite to an 18 end 21 adjacent the retraction apparatus 10, in the closed position. Guide rails 19 19 extend axially along the side walls 4 for engaging the guide rollers 17 during axial movement of the lid therealong.
11 Preferably, the struts are removable during servicing or inspection to gain access 12 to the vault's contents 2 as required.
13 As shown in Figs. 3a-b, a retraction apparatus 10 is mounted on at 14 least one of the vault's end walls 5 and is operable between the vault 1 and the lid 3, for retracting the lid 3 between an opened and a closed position.
16 As detailed in Figs. 3a-b and 4a-b, the retraction apparatus 17 comprises one or more lid roller rails 11 mounted axially on an underside 12 of 18 the lid. One or more lid rollers 13 are mounted on one or more upwardly 19 extending arms 15 which are pivotally mounted adjacent an edge 14 of the vault 1 for engaging and co-operating with the one or more lid roller rails 11 to permit 21 the lid 3 to be rolled between the open and closed positions. Preferably, two lid 22 roller rails 11 and two rollers 13 are used.
23 A hydraulic shock, such as a gas shock 16, is connected to each of 24 the roller mounting arms 15 causing the roller arms 15 to pivot when the gas 1 shock 16 is actuated to bias the lid 3 to a lifted position which aids in retraction of 2 the lid 3 from the vault 1 to the opened position. Normally, the gas shock 16 is in 3 the actuated position as shown in Fig. 4a. Pressure on the lid 3, during the final 4 stages of closing the lid 3, causes each gas shock 16 to move to a lowered position enabling latching of the lid 3 in the closed position.
6 As the lid 3 moves to the opened position, as shown in Fig. 4b, 7 each gas shock 16 extends, permitting further pivoting of the roller arms 15, 8 maintaining the one or more lid rollers in the one or more lid roller rails 11.
9 Having reference to Figs. 5a-6c, the lid 3 comprises a substantially flat plate 20 to which the lid roller rails 11 are mounted on the underside 12. A lid 11 handle 30 is situated at an end 31 of the lid 3. The lid handle 30 is recessed 12 towards the underside 12 of the lid 3 and ccntains a latching mechanism 40.
The 13 latching mechanism 40 comprises a latch handle 41 pivotally attached to a hook 14 42 which releasable engages the vault 1. As the latch handle 41 is lifted within the lid handle 30, the hook 42 is released from the vault 1 permitting the lid 3 to 16 be retracted. Similarly, when the lid 3 has been completely closed, the latch 17 handle 41 is pushed downward into the lid handle 30 causing the hook 42 to 18 engage the vault 1, locking the lid 3 thereto. Typically, the hook 42 engages a 19 loop 43 attached to the vault 1.
A safety release knob 50 extends into the lid handle 30 and is 21 connected by an actuation rod 51 to a release cable 52 extending transversely 22 across the lid 3 adjacent a rear of the lid 3. A pair of latch cams 53 are attached, 23 one to either end of the release cable 52, and act to maintain the lid 3 in the 24 opened position during servicing and inspection by engaging the vault 1 and 1 preventing the lid 3 from moving. When servicing is begun, the personnel rotate 2 the safety release knob 50 to a first latched position or the latch cams 53 are 3 spring-biased to the latched position, to engage the latch cams 53 with the vault 4 1 at a lid stop 54. When the servicing is complete, the personnel rotate the safety release knob 50 to a second position which tensions the cable 52 and releases 6 the latch cams 53 from the vault 1. Once the latch cams 53 are released the lid 3 7 can be actuated to the closed position.
8 Optionally, as shown in Fig. 6c, a safety pin 60 may be dropped 9 into a hole 61 in an edge of the vault 1 such that the pin 60 acts as a safety backup for the lid stop 54, further preventing the lid 3 from closing until the safety 11 pin 60 is removed.
12 As shown in Fig. 7, optionally the lid 3 may comprise at least two 13 portions 3a, 3b, each having retraction apparatus and being retractable from the 14 vault 1 in different, preferably opposing, directions.
Having reference again to Figs 1 and 2, the lid 3 is supported and 16 guided during axial movement of the lid 3, between the open and closed 17 positions. Guide rollers 17 are positioned at an end 18 of the lid 3 opposite to an 18 end 21 adjacent the retraction apparatus 10, in the closed position. Guide rails 19 19 extend axially along the side walls 4 for engaging the guide rollers 17 during axial movement of the lid therealong.
Claims (35)
EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY OR PRIVILEDGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS
FOLLOWS:
1. A flush-mounted lid for an in-ground enclosure comprising:
a substantially flat plate for forming the lid;
retraction apparatus comprising one or more lid rollers pivotally connected to an end wall of the enclosure for lifting the lid from the enclosure to a lifted position and lowering the lid to a closed position substantially flush with an upper end of the enclosure;
one or more rails extending axially along an underside of the lid for engaging the one or more lid rollers for retracting the lid substantially axially from the enclosure to an open position; and means for releasably engaging the lid in the open position.
a substantially flat plate for forming the lid;
retraction apparatus comprising one or more lid rollers pivotally connected to an end wall of the enclosure for lifting the lid from the enclosure to a lifted position and lowering the lid to a closed position substantially flush with an upper end of the enclosure;
one or more rails extending axially along an underside of the lid for engaging the one or more lid rollers for retracting the lid substantially axially from the enclosure to an open position; and means for releasably engaging the lid in the open position.
2. The flush-mounted lid as described in claim 1 wherein the retraction apparatus further comprises:
one or more roller arms pivotally connected adjacent an edge of the end wall of the enclosure for mounting the one or more rollers thereon for engagement with the one or more rails;
biasing means connected to the one or more roller arms and operable between an actuated position, wherein the one or more roller arms are pivoted to raise the lid to the lifted position for retraction from the enclosure;
and a lowered position, wherein the one or more roller arms are pivoted to lower the lid to the closed position.
one or more roller arms pivotally connected adjacent an edge of the end wall of the enclosure for mounting the one or more rollers thereon for engagement with the one or more rails;
biasing means connected to the one or more roller arms and operable between an actuated position, wherein the one or more roller arms are pivoted to raise the lid to the lifted position for retraction from the enclosure;
and a lowered position, wherein the one or more roller arms are pivoted to lower the lid to the closed position.
3. The flush-mounted lid as described in claim 2 wherein the biasing means are one or more hydraulic shocks.
4. The flush-mounted lid as described in claim 2 or 3 wherein the biasing means are normally biased to the actuated position for pivoting the lid to the lifted position.
5. The flush mounted lid as described in claim 3 wherein the hydraulic shocks are gas shocks.
6. The flush-mounted lid as described in any one of claims 1 to 5 further comprising a lid handle recessed in the lid.
7. The flush-mounted lid as described in claim 1 or 2 further comprising a latching mechanism for temporarily maintaining the lid in the closed position.
8. The flush mounted lid as described in claim 7 wherein the latching mechanism further comprises:
a latch handle;
a hook pivotally connected to the latch handle for releasably engaging the enclosure;
wherein when the latch handle is pushed downward the hook engages the enclosure preventing movement of the lid therefrom; and wherein the latch handle is lifted the hook is released from the enclosure for permitting retraction of the lid therefrom.
a latch handle;
a hook pivotally connected to the latch handle for releasably engaging the enclosure;
wherein when the latch handle is pushed downward the hook engages the enclosure preventing movement of the lid therefrom; and wherein the latch handle is lifted the hook is released from the enclosure for permitting retraction of the lid therefrom.
9. The flush-mounted lid as described in claim 8 wherein the hook engages a loop on the enclosure.
10. The flush-mounted lid as described in claim 8 or 9 wherein the latch handle is positioned within the lid handle.
11. The flush-mounted lid as described in any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein the means for releasably engaging the lid in the open position for temporarily preventing the lid from movement to the closed position comprises:
a lid stop connected to the enclosure; and at least one latch cam releasably actuable to engage the lid stop so as to temporarily prevent the lid from moving to the closed position.
a lid stop connected to the enclosure; and at least one latch cam releasably actuable to engage the lid stop so as to temporarily prevent the lid from moving to the closed position.
12. The flush-mounted lid as described in claim 11 further comprising:
a release cable extending transversely across the lid adjacent a rear of the lid and to which the at least one latch cam is attached;
a safety release knob; and an actuation rod extending between the safety release knob and the release cable;
wherein when the lid is in the open position and the safety knob is rotated to a first latched position, the at least one latch cam engages the at least one lid stop on the enclosure for temporarily preventing the lid from moving to the closed position; and wherein when the safety knob is rotated to a second position, the cable is tensioned to release the at least one cam from engagement with the at least one lid stop permitting the lid to be actuated to the closed position.
a release cable extending transversely across the lid adjacent a rear of the lid and to which the at least one latch cam is attached;
a safety release knob; and an actuation rod extending between the safety release knob and the release cable;
wherein when the lid is in the open position and the safety knob is rotated to a first latched position, the at least one latch cam engages the at least one lid stop on the enclosure for temporarily preventing the lid from moving to the closed position; and wherein when the safety knob is rotated to a second position, the cable is tensioned to release the at least one cam from engagement with the at least one lid stop permitting the lid to be actuated to the closed position.
13. The flush-mounted lid as described in any one of claims 1 to 12 further comprising:
a hole formed in an edge of the enclosure; and a safety pin for dropping into the hole when the lid is in the opened position for further preventing the lid from being actuated to the closed position until the pin is removed.
a hole formed in an edge of the enclosure; and a safety pin for dropping into the hole when the lid is in the opened position for further preventing the lid from being actuated to the closed position until the pin is removed.
14. The flush-mounted lid as described in any one of claims 1 to 13 wherein the substantially flat plate for forming the lid comprises two portions each having a retraction apparatus and means for releasably engaging the lid in the open position for temporarily preventing the lid from movement to the closed position, the two portions being retractable in different directions.
15. The flush-mounted lid as described in claim 14 wherein the two portions are retractable in opposing directions.
16. The flush mounted lid as described in claim 1 further comprising:
supporting rollers on the underside of the lid at an end opposite an end of the lid which is adjacent the lid rollers in the closed position; and guides formed axially along side walls of the in-ground enclosure for engaging the supporting rollers as the lid is moved between the open and closed positions.
supporting rollers on the underside of the lid at an end opposite an end of the lid which is adjacent the lid rollers in the closed position; and guides formed axially along side walls of the in-ground enclosure for engaging the supporting rollers as the lid is moved between the open and closed positions.
17. A flush-mounted lid for an in-ground enclosure comprising:
a substantially flat plate for forming the lid;
a retraction apparatus connected between an end wall of the enclosure and an underside of the lid for permitting movement of the lid between a closed position wherein the lid substantially covers the enclosure and is substantially flush with a surface of the ground and a lifted position wherein the lid can be retracted on the retraction apparatus substantially axially from the enclosure to an open position, the retraction apparatus comprising one or more rails extending axially along the underside of the lid, one or more rollers pivotally connected to the end wall of the enclosure and one or more roller arms pivotally connected adjacent an edge of the end wall of the enclosure for mounting the one or more rollers thereon for engagement with the one or more rails, and one or more hydraulic shocks connected to the one or more roller arms and operable between an actuated position, wherein the one or more roller arms are pivoted to raise the lid to the lifted position for retraction from the enclosure; and a lowered position, wherein the one or more roller arms are pivoted to lower the lid to the closed position.
means for releasably engaging the lid in the open position for temporarily preventing the lid from movement to the closed position.
a substantially flat plate for forming the lid;
a retraction apparatus connected between an end wall of the enclosure and an underside of the lid for permitting movement of the lid between a closed position wherein the lid substantially covers the enclosure and is substantially flush with a surface of the ground and a lifted position wherein the lid can be retracted on the retraction apparatus substantially axially from the enclosure to an open position, the retraction apparatus comprising one or more rails extending axially along the underside of the lid, one or more rollers pivotally connected to the end wall of the enclosure and one or more roller arms pivotally connected adjacent an edge of the end wall of the enclosure for mounting the one or more rollers thereon for engagement with the one or more rails, and one or more hydraulic shocks connected to the one or more roller arms and operable between an actuated position, wherein the one or more roller arms are pivoted to raise the lid to the lifted position for retraction from the enclosure; and a lowered position, wherein the one or more roller arms are pivoted to lower the lid to the closed position.
means for releasably engaging the lid in the open position for temporarily preventing the lid from movement to the closed position.
18. The flush-mounted lid as described in claim 17 wherein the one or more hydraulic shocks are normally biased to the actuated position for pivoting the lid to the lifted position.
19. The flush mounted lid as described in claim 17 or 18 wherein the hydraulic shocks are gas shocks.
20. The flush-mounted lid as described in any one of claims 17 to 19 further comprising a lid handle recessed in the lid.
21. The flush-mounted lid as described in any one of claims 17 to 20 further comprising a latching mechanism for temporarily maintaining the lid in the closed position.
22. The flush mounted lid as described in claim 21 wherein the latching mechanism further comprises:
a latch handle;
a hook pivotally connected to the latch handle for releasably engaging the enclosure;
wherein when the latch handle is pushed downward the hook engages the enclosure preventing movement of the lid therefrom; and wherein the latch handle is lifted the hook is released from the enclosure for permitting retraction of the lid therefrom.
a latch handle;
a hook pivotally connected to the latch handle for releasably engaging the enclosure;
wherein when the latch handle is pushed downward the hook engages the enclosure preventing movement of the lid therefrom; and wherein the latch handle is lifted the hook is released from the enclosure for permitting retraction of the lid therefrom.
23. The flush-mounted lid as described in claim 22 wherein the hook engages a loop on the enclosure.
24. The flush-mounted lid as described in claim 22 or 23 wherein the latch handle is positioned within the lid handle.
25. The flush-mounted lid as described in any one of claims 17 to 24 wherein the means for releasably engaging the lid in the open position for temporarily preventing the lid from movement to the closed position comprises:
a lid stop connected to the enclosure; and at least one latch cam releasably actuable to engage the lid stop so as to temporarily prevent the lid from moving to the closed position.
a lid stop connected to the enclosure; and at least one latch cam releasably actuable to engage the lid stop so as to temporarily prevent the lid from moving to the closed position.
26. The flush-mounted lid as described in claim 25 further comprising:
a release cable extending transversely across the lid adjacent a rear of the lid and to which the at least one latch cam is attached;
a safety release knob; and an actuation rod extending between the safety release knob and the release cable;
wherein when the lid is in the open position and the safety knob is rotated to a first latched position, the at least one latch cam engages the at least one lid stop on the enclosure for temporarily preventing the lid from moving to the closed position; and wherein when the safety knob is rotated to a second position, the cable is tensioned to release the at least one cam from engagement with the at least one lid stop permitting the lid to be actuated to the closed position.
a release cable extending transversely across the lid adjacent a rear of the lid and to which the at least one latch cam is attached;
a safety release knob; and an actuation rod extending between the safety release knob and the release cable;
wherein when the lid is in the open position and the safety knob is rotated to a first latched position, the at least one latch cam engages the at least one lid stop on the enclosure for temporarily preventing the lid from moving to the closed position; and wherein when the safety knob is rotated to a second position, the cable is tensioned to release the at least one cam from engagement with the at least one lid stop permitting the lid to be actuated to the closed position.
27. The flush-mounted lid as described in any one of claims 17 to 26 further comprising:
a hole formed in an edge of the enclosure; and a safety pin for dropping into the hole when the lid is in the opened position for further preventing the lid from being actuated to the closed position until the pin is removed.
a hole formed in an edge of the enclosure; and a safety pin for dropping into the hole when the lid is in the opened position for further preventing the lid from being actuated to the closed position until the pin is removed.
28. The flush-mounted lid as described in any one of claims 17 to 27 wherein the substantially flat plate for forming the lid comprises two portions each having a retraction apparatus and means for releasably engaging the lid in the open position for temporarily preventing the lid from movement to the closed position, the two portions being retractable in different directions.
29. The flush-mounted lid as described in claim 28 wherein the two portions are retractable in opposing directions.
30. A method for operating a flush-mounted lid on an in-ground enclosure comprising:
providing a substantially flat lid which is in a flush to the enclosure in a closed position;
pivoting one or more lid rollers from at least one end wall of the enclosure for lifting one end of the lid from the closed position to a lifted position;
and rolling the rails of the lid along the one or more rollers for retracting the lid axially to an open position.
providing a substantially flat lid which is in a flush to the enclosure in a closed position;
pivoting one or more lid rollers from at least one end wall of the enclosure for lifting one end of the lid from the closed position to a lifted position;
and rolling the rails of the lid along the one or more rollers for retracting the lid axially to an open position.
31. The method of claim 30 further comprising:
releasing the lid from the open position;
rolling the rails of the lid along the one or more rollers for returning the lid to the lifted position; and thereafter pivoting the one or more lid rollers for lowering the lid to the closed position.
releasing the lid from the open position;
rolling the rails of the lid along the one or more rollers for returning the lid to the lifted position; and thereafter pivoting the one or more lid rollers for lowering the lid to the closed position.
32. The method of claim 31 further comprising:
biasing the pivoting of the lid rollers for raising the lid to the lifted position; and applying pressure to the lid to pivot the lid rollers and lower the lid to the closed position.
biasing the pivoting of the lid rollers for raising the lid to the lifted position; and applying pressure to the lid to pivot the lid rollers and lower the lid to the closed position.
33. The method of claim 32 further comprising latching the lid in the closed position.
34. The method of any one of claims 30 to 33, wherein while retracting the lid, further comprising guiding another end of the lid along side walls of the enclosure during axial movement between the open and closed positions.
35. The method of any one of claims 30 to 34 further comprising releasably engaging the lid in the open position for temporarily preventing the lid from movement to the closed position.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2452823A CA2452823C (en) | 2003-12-10 | 2003-12-10 | Flush-mounted retractable lid |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2452823A CA2452823C (en) | 2003-12-10 | 2003-12-10 | Flush-mounted retractable lid |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2452823A1 CA2452823A1 (en) | 2005-06-10 |
| CA2452823C true CA2452823C (en) | 2012-01-10 |
Family
ID=34624365
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2452823A Expired - Fee Related CA2452823C (en) | 2003-12-10 | 2003-12-10 | Flush-mounted retractable lid |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2452823C (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN104452823A (en) * | 2014-12-12 | 2015-03-25 | 杨立斌 | Safety well lid |
Families Citing this family (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US9022439B2 (en) * | 2012-09-27 | 2015-05-05 | Richard L. Ousley | Security cover for a utility ground box and method |
| CN103437418B (en) * | 2013-08-30 | 2015-06-03 | 绍兴文理学院 | Intelligent water draining system of urban roads |
| GB2522002A (en) * | 2013-11-07 | 2015-07-15 | Wade Internat Ltd | Access cover assembly |
-
2003
- 2003-12-10 CA CA2452823A patent/CA2452823C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN104452823A (en) * | 2014-12-12 | 2015-03-25 | 杨立斌 | Safety well lid |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2452823A1 (en) | 2005-06-10 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |
Effective date: 20210831 |
|
| MKLA | Lapsed |
Effective date: 20191210 |