WO2002018713A1

WO2002018713A1 - Adjustable utility access device

Info

Publication number: WO2002018713A1
Application number: PCT/US2001/027329
Authority: WO
Inventors: Chris Sondrup
Original assignee: Precision Cover Systems
Priority date: 2000-09-01
Filing date: 2001-08-31
Publication date: 2002-03-07
Also published as: CA2421048A1; AU2001287032A1

Abstract

A height and/or angle adjustable utility access device (10, 110, 200 or 310) includes a frame (16, 118, 210 or 318) secured over a utility with an opening (22) therethrough. A cover (14) is removably disposed over the opening of the frame. Height adjustment means can be disposed between the frame and the cover for adjusting the height of the cover relative to the frame. Angle adjustment means can be disposed between the frame and the cover for adjusting the angle of the cover relative to the frame. The height adjustment means can include a plurality of steps or pockets (146) foremd about a circumference of the opening at different elevations, and at elast one mating tab (150) selectively mating with at least one of the steps or pockets to selectively position the tab at a desired elevation. The angle adjustment means can include first and second angled edges (374, 378) formed between the cover and frame to selectively orient the cover with the frame.

Description

ADJUSTABLE UTILITY ACCESS DEVICE BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. The Field of the Invention.

The present invention relates generally to a utility access, such as a manhole. More particularly, the present invention relates to a height and/or angle adjustable utility access or manhole having a variable cover height adjustment, and/or variable angular adjustment, to allow the top of the cover to sit flush with the surrounding surface, such as a road.

2. The Background Art.

A utility access provides access to various underground equipment associated with various utilities. Examples of utilities include sewer pipelines or systems, electrical cables or systems, telephone cables or systems, natural gas lines or systems, gas or oil pipelines or systems, cable television lines or systems, water or drainage pipelines or systems, etc. Examples of equipment associated with the utilities include pipelines, cables, valves, meters, switches, storage, etc. The utility access can be large enough for a worker to physically pass therethough, such as a manhole, or can be smaller providing only visual access, such as for a meter, or providing only tool access, such as for a valve. As an example, a manhole is an opening in any surface large enough to allow workmen to descend beneath the surface to obtain access to stored materials or equipment or underground installations. The openings are normally in areas carrying traffic so that a means of securely framing and covering the opening must be provided. The manholes must also be strong enough to withstand various external loadings, for example the loading of vehicles moving over the manhole.

In the prior art, the standard procedure has been to frame the opening with a grey iron casting. These castings typically incorporate a flanged surface that rests on a supporting structure that is located under ground. This supporting structure typically comprises standard concrete rings long enough so that a number of them form a passage to reach the underground installation. The flanged surface of the manhole transmits the weight of the equipment, together with live surface loads, to the supporting structure. The frame typically incorporates a projecting ledge around the circumference and a cast iron cover rests on the ledge and closes the manhole. The cover is a removable casting designed to carry the surface loads, and must transmit those forces to the underground supporting structure through the frame. The cover must be heavy to avoid vandalism. In some cases it is bolted down in order to make the installation water tight and tamper proof.

In one situation, a subsequent layer of surfacing material (for example, asphalt) is added to the road surface. When this happens, the manhole may need to be adjusted to match the height of the new road. Typically, adjustment is done by filling the space between the manhole top structure and the supporting manhole frame structure with layers of bricks and mortar. This is a manual, time- consuming procedure. In addition, spacers may be used.

In addition, road surfaces are often sloped to resist the accumulation of water on the road surface. It will be appreciated that it is often difficult to match the orientation of the manhole cover with the slope of the road.

Examples of patents related to work in this area are U.S. Patents 4,273,467; 5,496,128; 5,564,855; 5,956,905; 4,337,005; 5,366,317; 5,451,119; and 5,470,172. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It has been recognized that it would be advantageous to develop an improved utility access or manhole top structure which is adjustable in height and/or angle. In addition, it has been recognized that it would be advantageous to develop a utility access or manhole with a variable cover height adjustment, and/or a variable angular adjustment, to allow the top of the cover to sit flush with the surrounding surface, such as a road. In addition, it has been recognized that it would be advantageous to develop a method for adjusting the height and angular orientation of a utility access.

The invention provides an adjustable utility access device with 1) a height adjustment means for adjusting the height of a cover relative to a frame or base ring, and/or 2) an angle adjustment means for adjusting the angle of the cover relative to the frame or base ring. Thus, the cover can be positioned flush with a surface, such as a roadway.

The utility access can be a manhole, and the frame or base ring can be secured to a manhole extension. The frame has an opening therethrough to provide access to the utility. The cover is removably disposed over the opening of the frame to cover the utility access. The height adjustment means and the angle adjustment means can be disposed between the frame and the cover.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the height adjustment means includes 1) a first position that maintains the cover at a first height, and 2) a different second position that maintains the cover at a different second height.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the angle adjustment means can include 1) a first position in which a top edge of an adaptor ring is parallel with a bottom edge of the frame, and 2) a second position in which the top edge of the adaptor ring forms an angle with respect to the bottom edge of the frame greater than 0 degrees and less than 20 degrees.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the angle adjustment means further comprises an adaptor ring rotatably disposed on the frame or base ring, and first and second angled edges formed between the adaptor ring and the frame. The frame can include the first angled edge, and the adaptor . ring can include the second angled edge.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the height adjustment means and the angle adjustment means further comprise the frame having a first angled edge. An adaptor ring can be rotatably disposed on the frame, and have a second angled edge rotatably engagable with the first angled edge of the frame. In addition, the adaptor ring can have a plurality of steps formed thereon. An extension ring can be selectively disposed on the adaptor ring, and have at least one tab attached thereto selectively engagable with at least one of the plurality of steps. In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the height adjustment means can include a plurality of steps or pockets formed about a circumference of the opening, and have bottoms disposed at different elevations. At least one mating tab can selectively mate with at least one of the pockets to selectively position the tab at a desired elevation. hi accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the height adjustment means can include an adaptor ring disposed on the frame, and having a plurality of steps at different elevations formed about a circumference thereof. An extension ring can be disposed on the adaptor ring, and can have at least one tab selectively engagable with at least one of the plurality of steps to selectively elevate the extension with respect to the frame. A method of using the adjustable utility access, or for adjusting the orientation and/or height of the cover, includes locating the frame over the utility access; and locating the cover over the opening of the frame. The orientation of the cover can be adjusted by selectively rotating first and second angled edges to selectively orient the cover with respect to the frame. The height of the cover can be adjusted by selectively rotating the at least one tab with respect to a plurality of steps to selectively adjust a height of the cover with respect to the frame.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the step of selectively rotating the first and second angled edges further includes selectively rotating an adaptor ring with respect to the frame. The frame and adaptor ring have the respective first and second angled edges.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the step of selectively rotating the adaptor ring further includes engaging the ground with a distal end of a lever arm; engaging a protrusion which extends from the adaptor ring with an intermediate section of the lever arm which is adjacent the distal end; and pivoting the lever arm about the distal end thereof by applying a force to a proximal end of the lever arm.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the frame also can be selectively rotated by engaging the ground with a distal end of a lever arm; engaging a protrusion which extends from the frame with an intermediate section of the lever arm which is adjacent the distal end; and pivoting the lever arm about the distal end thereof by applying a force to a proximal end of the lever arm. Thus, both the frame and adaptor ring can be selectively rotated to properly orient the cover.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the step of selectively rotating first and second angled edges, and the step of selectively rotating the at least one tab with respect to the plurality of steps, further include selectively rotating an adaptor ring with respect to the frame, the frame and adaptor ring having the respective first and second angled edges; and selectively rotating an extension ring with respect to the adaptor ring, the adaptor ring having the plurality of steps formed thereon, and the extension ring having the at least one tab attached thereto to selectively engage at least one of the plurality of steps of the adaptor ring. The step of selectively rotating the adaptor ring further includes engaging the ground with a distal end of a lever arm; engaging a protrusion which extends from the adaptor ring with an intermediate section of the lever arm which is adjacent the distal end; and pivoting the lever arm about the distal end thereof by applying a force to a proximal end of the lever arm.

Again, the frame can be selectively rotated by engaging the ground with a distal end of a lever arm; engaging a protrusion which extends from the frame with an intermediate section of the lever arm which is adjacent the distal end; and pivoting the lever arm about the distal end thereof by applying a force to a proximal end of the lever arm. Thus, both the frame and adaptor ring can be selectively rotated to properly orient the cover..

Additional features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the detailed description which follows, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which together illustrate, byway of example, features of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side view of angularly adjustable utility access device in accordance with the present invention; FIG. 2 is an exploded side view of a height adjustable utility access device in accordance with the present invention; FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an adaptor ring with a plurality of steps of the utility access device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of another height adjustable utility access device in accordance with the present invention; FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of another height adjustable utility access device with a height adjustment mechanism in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a height adjustment ring of the height adjustment mechanism of FIG. 5; FIG. 7 is a partial, cross sectional side view of the height adjustment mechanism of FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is an exploded side view of a height and angle adjustable utility access device in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a cross sectional side view of the utility access device of FIG. 8, shown in a first lower position, and a first zero pitch orientation;

FIG. 10 is a cross sectional side view of the utility access device of FIG. 8, shown in a second higher position, and a second angled orientation;

FIG. 11 is a side view of the utility access device of FIG. 8, shown in the first lower position, and the second angled orientation; FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the utility access device of

FIG. 8;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the frame of the utility access device of FIG. 8, showing a method for rotating the frame in accordance with the present invention; and FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the adaptor ring of the utility access device of FIG. 8 showing a method for rotating the adaptor ring in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, and any additional applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered within the scope of the invention.

The present invention provides an adjustable utility access, such as a manhole, with 1) an adjustable height, 2) an adjustable angle, or 3) both an adjustable height and an adjustable angle, to adjust or vary the height and/or angle of a cover to allow a top of the cover to be oriented and located as desired, such as to sit flush with the surrounding surface or road. Manholes or manhole access are an example of a field that can benefit from the use of such an adjustable utility access. While the invention is illustrated and described below as being configured for use as a manhole for providing access to a utility beneath a roadway, it is of course understood that the present invention can be configured for access to any structure, storage, or utility, including for example, water lines, water valves, water meters, gas lines, gas valves, cable lines and equipment, electrical lines and equipment, etc. The present invention provides a utility access device that can be used with a utility access for various underground equipment associated with a utility. The utility access device can be configured for use with the particular utility access. As stated above, the utility access can be for pipelines, cables, valves, switches, storage, etc. associated with sewer, drainage, telephone, cable television, electrical, gas or oil systems, and the like. The utility access device can be sized larger to accommodate the passage or a worker therethrough, or smaller to accommodate only tools or visual inspections.

By way of example, the utility access device is described below and illustrated herein with respect to a manhole. The utility access can be disposed on, or attached to, a manhole extension 6, or upper surface or top edge 8 thereof.

The manhole extension 6 is usually made of concrete and has an hole forming a vertical shaft for workmen to climb down for access to underground utilities, storage or structures. Typically, the utility access is suπounded by supporting ground material 9, like concrete or asphalt. The upper surface or top edge 8 is typically perpendicular to a plumb line to ensure a vertical shaft for sewer workers to climb down into. Typically, the utility access and manhole extension

6 are located underneath a surface, such as a roadway, and the cover typically must be flush with the surface or roadway. Adjustable Angle Utility Access

As illustrated in FIG. 1, an angle adjustable utility access device or manhole assembly 10 is shown for adjusting or varying the angular orientation of a utility or manhole cover 12. As stated above, the manhole assembly 10 can be disposed on the manhole extension 6, or upper surface 8 thereof, and can be surrounded by supporting ground material 9, like concrete or asphalt. The manhole assembly 10 can include a rotatable angular top ring 14, and an angular frame or base ring 16, both of which are stacked on top of the manhole extension

6, and both of which support the manhole cover 12. The top ring 14 may have a coupling 22 for holding the lid 12 onto the ring 14. The coupling 22 would typically, but not necessarily, include a lid wall 24, for holding the manhole lid 12, a shoulder 26, for supporting the lid 12. The top ring 14 has a height dimension that increases uniformly from a first height associated with a first side 18, and maximizes at a second height associated with a second side 20. The top ring 14 has a variable height wall 28 that uniformly increases in height from the short side 18 to the maximum height side 20. The top ring 14 also has a bottom edge 29 that is parallel to line 27 that illustrates angle 25 that is created from the height variation between sides 18 and

20. In one aspect, the created angle 25 can be between two and ten degrees.

The base ring 16 includes a base coupling 30 for coupling to the lower portion of the top ring 14. The coupling 30 may be designed with a vertical holding wall 32, for holding the ring 14 from moving off of the base ring 16, and a base coupling shoulder 34 for supporting the top ring 14. The base ring also can include a lower base coupling 36, for holding the base ring 16 onto the manhole extension 6. The lower base coupling 36, may include, but not be limited to, an extension 38, for holding the whole adjustable ring assembly 10 on top of the extension 6, and a lower coupling wall 40, for holding the base ring 16 from sliding off of the manhole extension 6. The base ring 16 also has a shorter side 44 and a taller side 42 that forms a angle 46. It is noted that line 48 is parallel to a bottom edge 50 and is positioned to illustrate the angle 46. The angle 46 can be between two and ten degrees. The bottom edge 50 of the base ring 16 can be parallel to the top edge 8 of the manhole extension 6.

The top ring 14 advantageously is rotatably disposed on the base ring 16. Thus, the top ring 14 can be selectively rotated on the base ring 16 to selectively orient an upper edge of the top ring 14, or the cover 12. Thus, one ring can be rotated with respect to another to obtain the desired angle or pitch, and both rings can be rotated together to properly orient the angle or pitch. It should be noted that most all designs of manhole extensions 6 are designed with the top edge 8 to be level, or perpendicular to plumb. This is to ensure that the hole to the sewer is perpendicular to the sewer lines. Uniquely, a maximum amount of pitch to the cover 12 is achieved by placing the shortest sections 18 and 44 of the top and base rings 14 and 16 upon each other, as currently illustrated, which will position the largest ends 20 and 42 upon each other. Additionally, it is possible to have the cover 12 in a zero pitch, or a zero degree slope. This is accomplished by having the largest and smallest sections 18 and 42, and 20 and 44, stacked above each other. Specifically, the angle achieved by the one ring would be off set by the opposite angle provided by the other ring.

It is further noted that each ring section is designed to withstand the full weight of any passing vehicle. These sections are desired to be made of cast iron or other strong materials. They are designed to be sold in combination and are not made to be separate from each other.

One skilled in the art would be capable of making many obvious design changes which would stay within the scope of the invention disclosed in this application. It is noted that cement extension 6 is illustrated as having no groove therein to accommodate the insertion of the base ring 16. However, it is also understood that there are many ways to place the lower ring 16 over the extension 6. For example, the base ring 16 could be bolted thereon, or could even be threaded to the extension 6. Adjustable Height Utility Access As illustrated in FIG. 2, a height adjustable utility access device, indicated generally at 110, in accordance with the present invention is shown for adjusting the height of a cover 14 to be flush with a surface, such as a roadway. The utility access device 110 can include the cover 14 and a frame or manhole ring 118. The frame 118 has an opening 122 therethrough for providing access therethrough to a utility. The cover 14 covers the opening 122. The frame 118 can be disposed on or attached to a manhole extension 6 (FIGs. 1 and 5).

The utility access device 110 advantageously includes a height adjustment mechanism or means for adjusting the height of the cover 14 with respect to the frame 118, and thus with respect to a surface or roadway. Preferably, the utility access device 110 includes an adaptor or adaptor ring 130, and an extension or extension ring 134. The adaptor ring 130 is disposable on, and engages, the frame 118, while the extension ring 134 is disposed on, or received by the adaptor ring 130. The cover 14 is removably disposed on the extension ring 134, and thus is removably disposed over the opening 122 of the frame 118. Both the adaptor ring 130 and extension ring 134 can be annular or ring-like, and have access holes formed therethrough. It is of course understood, that the adaptor 130 and extension 134 can be of any shape.

The frame 118 preferably is a standard frame configured to receive a standard cover 14. Thus, the adaptor ring 130 can have a lip 138 sized and shaped to be received by the frame 118, similarly to how the cover 14 would be received. Similarly, the cover 14 preferably is a standard cover. Thus, the extension ring 134 can have an opening 142 (FIG. 4) sized and shaped to receive the cover 14.

The adaptor ring 130 advantageously includes a plurality of steps or pockets 146 (FIG. 3), while the extension ring 134 includes one or more mating tabs 150 (FIG. 2) which engage or selectively mate with the steps or pockets 146 to selectively position the tabs 150, and thus the extension ring 134 and cover 14, at a desired elevation. Referring to FIG. 3, the plurality of steps or pockets 146 can be formed in an inner surface or circumference of the adaptor ring 130, and are disposed at different elevations. The plurality of steps or pockets 146 preferably includes three sets of steps or pockets, each with a matching plurality of steps or pockets. It is believed that three sets of steps or pockets, and three tabs 150 (FIG. 2) provides the greatest stability between the adaptor ring 130 and extension ring 134 (FIG. 2), and greatest flexibility in tolerances. For example, it is believed that three tabs 150 (FIG. 2) can engage or rest on three steps 146 without wobbling, and without meeting exacting tolerances.

As discussed above, the plurality of steps or pockets 146 can be conceptualized in different ways. The adaptor ring 130 can have a plurality of steps arranged in a stair-like fashion around the interior of the adaptor ring 130, with each subsequent step being at a higher or lower elevation as the steps extend around the adaptor ring 130. The adaptor ring 130 also can have a plurality of pockets or indentations formed in the inner surface and upper edge of the adaptor ring 130. The pockets can have bottom walls at different elevations, or the pockets can have different depths from the upper edge. In addition, adjacent steps or pockets 146 can be separated by walls 154 which prevent the tabs 150 (FIG. 2) from inadvertently moving from one step to another. For example, a wall 154 can be formed between a step and a proximal lower step to prevent the tab 150 from sliding off the step to the lower step under an applied force and/or vibration.

Referring again to FIG. 2, the one or more tabs 150 can be formed on the extension ring 134. The tabs 150 can be formed on the exterior surface or outer circumference of the extension ring 134. As stated above, the extension ring 134 preferably has three tabs 150. The tabs 150 have a bottom surface which engages or rests on the steps 146 (FIG. 3). In addition, the tabs 150 can be sized and shaped to mate with the pockets 146 (FIG. 3). The extension ring 134 can be vertically manipulated, indicated by arrow

158, with respect to the adaptor ring 130. For example, the extension ring 134 can be lifted vertically upwardly from the adaptor ring 130, and/or vertically placed on or in the adaptor ring 130. In addition, the extension ring 134 can be rotated, indicated by arrow 162, with respect to the adaptor ring 130. Thus, the extension ring 134 can be displaced vertically upwardly, and rotated, with respect to the adaptor ring 130 to position the extension ring 134 at a desired height with respect to the adaptor ring 130. For example, to increase the height or elevate the extension ring 134, the extension ring 134 is lifted and turned so that the tab 150 engages a higher step or pocket 146 (FIG. 3). With walls 154 extending to the top or upper edge of the adaptor ring 130, it may be necessary to completely remove the extension ring 134 from the adaptor ring 130 prior to rotation. Thus, the extension ring 134 can have a plurality of positions or rotational orientations with respect to the adaptor ring 130 which result in different heights or elevations of the extension ring 134. For example, the extension ring 134 can have a first position in which the tabs 150 rest on first steps or in first pockets 146 (FIG. 3) to maintain the cover 14 at a first height, and at least a second position in which the tabs 150 rest on different second steps or in different second pockets at a different elevation to maintain the cover 14 at a different second height.

The extension ring 134 can be sized and shaped to extend into the adaptor ring 130. The extension ring 134 can have a vertical skirt or extension 166 with a length or height sized to completely cover the steps or pockets when the extension ring 134 is received within the adaptor ring 130, thus preventing access to any cavities created by the steps from inside the rings.

The adaptor ring 130 with steps 146 (FIG. 3) and the extension ring 134 with tabs 150 are one example of a height adjustment means for adjusting the height of the cover 14 relative to the frame 118. It is of course understood that other means can be used, including for example: exterior steps or pockets, and interior tabs; steps on the extension ring, and tabs on the adaptor ring; steps or tabs directly on the frame; a plurality of steps forming the tabs; various different numbers of sets of steps and/or tabs; etc. Other examples of height adjustment means are described below with respect to alternative embodiments. One advantage of the adaptor ring 130 and extension ring 134 is that they can be used with typical or existing frames 118 and covers 14.

Referring to FIG. 4, another height adjustable utility access device, indicated generally at 200, is shown, which is similar in many respect to the device 110 described above. The utility access device 200 includes a frame 210 with the plurality of steps or pockets 146 formed directly therein, thus eliminating the need for the separate adaptor described above. Again, the extension ring 134 with tabs 150, and the frame 210 with steps 146, is one example of a height adjustment means for adjusting the height of the cover relative to the frame. It is of course understood that other configurations are possible, including for example: external steps or pockets, and internal tabs; forming the steps in the extension ring and the tabs on the frame; etc.

Referring to FIG. 5, another height adjustable utility access device, indicated generally at 250, is shown. The utility access device 250 includes a frame 118 and a cover 14. The utility access device also includes an extension apparatus or height adjustment device 254 having first and second, or lower and upper, rings 258 and 262. The device 254, or rings 258 and 262, preferably can be disposed between the frame 118 and the cover 14. The first ring 258 can be disposed on the frame 118, while the second ring 262 is disposed on the first ring 258, and receives the cover 14. Like the embodiments described above, the height adjustment device 254 utilizes a plurality of steps.

Referring to FIG. 6, a portion of the height adjustment device 254 is shown, namely the first or lower ring 258. The second or upper ring 262 can be a similar, but inverted ring. The lower and upper rings, illustrated by the lower ring 258, includes a plurality of steps 268. As described above, the steps 268 can include a plurality of sets 272 of steps. The steps 268 can increase uniformly in height or elevation from the bottom step to the top step. These steps 268 can be formed of a riser section 276 and a platform 280.

Referring to FIG. 7, there is illustrated a portion of the adjusting device 254. Specifically, the lower ring 258 is in a meshed position with the upper ring

262. Both rings have steps 268, resembling steps of a stairway, which preferably increase uniformly in height from a bottom step to a top step. Uniquely, it is noted that the platform 280 may have an angle 284, which would be angled from a base edge 288. Additionally, it is noted that the riser 276 may also be sloped in either direction 276a or 276b. The various riser angles allow for several advantages. For example, riser 276a makes it easier to move the height adjustment devise 254 from step to step, where riser 276b will actually make it harder to move the height adjustment devise 254 and actually hold the steps into position.

The operation of the height adjustment device 254 can be viewed as a meshing action. Specifically, the upper ring 262 can be rotated and replaced onto the lower ring 258, and thereby meshing the steps 268 of both the rings 258 and 262, thus selecting an appropriate overall height.

The adjustable device 254, or first and second rings 258 and 262, is another example of a height adjustment means, hi addition, the rings 258 and 262 could also be made to be permanently fixed to each other by means of bolts, or pegs, or other secure means of bonding after having been adjusted, i a similar manner, the lower ring 258, could be made to securely and permanently fasten to the frame 118. Additionally, the cover 14 could be permanently fixed to the upper ring 262. Although the adjustable unit 254 is illustrated as fitting into the frame 118, it also can be modified to fit over the sides of frame 118. In addition, the rings 258 and 262 also could be made with appropriate hand-grips, or means of inserting external handles, to facilitate the workers in repositioning the height adjustment.

It is noted that adjustable device 254 is illustrated to be positioned between the cover 14 and the frame 118. However, adjustable unit 254 can be placed below the frame 118, and above the manhole extension 6 and still achieve the same results.

It should be noted that most top manhole assemblies are of a fixed height design. In a typical installation the manhole is located in a road for access to a sewer. When a subsequent layer of material is added to the surface, the manhole covers are no longer flush with the road surface, hi one application of the present invention, the height or elevation of the cover 14 is increased. This provides a cost effective and efficient means of adjusting the height of manhole cover assemblies to match the suπounding surface. It is further noted that the frames and rings described above are designed to withstand the full weight of any passing vehicle or other live load. The frames and rings can be made out of cast iron or other strong material.

It is further noted that the above embodiments show the sets of steps making a transition from a high step to a low step. The transition, however, can be from the highest step to any intermediate step. Thus, a pyramid shaped stepping sequence could also be employed. This would allow rotation in either direction.

Referring to FIG. 2, the frame 118 can include one or more protrusions 290 formed thereon and extending outwardly in a radial direction past the circumference or perimeter of the frame 118. Similarly, the adaptor ring 130 can include one or more protrusions 294. The protrusions 290 and 294 preferably are plate like or have flat faces. The protrusions 290 and 294 form, or act as, anchors to resist movement and/or pivoting of the frame 118 or adaptor ring 130 after installation. Typically, concrete or asphalt is poured around the frame 118 and adaptor ring 130, and thus around the protrusions 290 and 294. Adjustable Height and Angle Utility Access

As illustrated in FIG. 8, a height and angle adjustable utility access device, indicated generally at 310, in accordance with the present invention is shown for adjusting the height and angle of a cover 14 to be flush with a surface (not shown), such as a roadway. The utility access device 310 can include the cover 14 and a frame or manhole ring 318. The frame 318 is similar in many respects to the frame described above. The utility access device 310 advantageously includes a height adjustment mechanism or means for adjusting the height of the cover 14 with respect to the frame 318, and thus with respect to a surface or roadway. In addition, the utility access device 310 advantageously includes an angle adjustment means for adjusting the angle of the cover 14 relative to the frame 318, and thus with respect to a surface or roadway. In one aspect, the utility access device 310 includes an adaptor or adaptor ring 330, and an extension or extension ring 134. The adaptor ring 330 is similar in many respects to the adaptor ring described above. The adaptor ring 330 is disposable on, and engages, the frame 318, while the extension ring 134 is disposed on, or received by the adaptor ring 330. The cover 14 is removably disposed on the extension ring 134, and thus is removably disposed over the opening 122 of the frame 318. Both the adaptor ring 330 and extension ring 134 can be annular or ring-like, and have access holes formed therethrough. It is of course understood, that the adaptor 330 and extension 134 can be of any shape. The cover 14 preferably is a standard cover. Thus, the extension ring 134 can have an opening 342 (FIG. 12) sized and shaped to receive the cover 14.

The adaptor ring 330 advantageously includes a plurality of steps or pockets 146 (FIG. 12), while the extension ring 134 (FIG. 8) includes one or more mating tabs 150 which engage or selectively mate with the steps or pockets 146 to selectively position the tabs 150, and thus the extension ring 134 and cover

14, at a desired elevation. The extension ring 134 can be vertically manipulated, indicated by arrow 158 (FIG. 8), with respect to the adaptor ring 330. For example, the extension ring 134 can be lifted vertically upwardly from the adaptor ring 330, and/or vertically placed on or in the adaptor ring 330. In addition, the extension ring 134 can be rotated, indicated by arrow 162, with respect to the adaptor ring 330. Thus, the extension ring 134 can be displaced vertically upwardly, and rotated, with respect to the adaptor ring 330 to position the extension ring 134 at a desired height with respect to the adaptor ring 330. For example, to increase the height, or elevate, the extension ring 134, the extension ring 134 is lifted and turned so that the tab 150 engages a higher step or pocket 146 (FIG. 12). With walls 154 extending to the top or upper edge of the adaptor ring 330, it may be necessary to completely remove the extension ring 134 from the adaptor ring 330 prior to rotation. Thus, the extension ring 134 can have a plurality of positions or rotational orientations with respect to the adaptor ring 330 which result in different heights or elevations of the extension ring 134.

For example, the extension ring 134 can have a first position in which the tabs 150 rest on first steps or in first pockets 146 (FIG. 12) to maintain the cover 14 at a first height, as shown in FIG. 9, and at least a second position in which the tabs 150 rest on different second steps or in different second pockets at a different elevation to maintain the cover 14 at a different second height, as shown in FIG. 10.

Referring to FIG. 8, as stated above, the utility access device 310 also advantageously includes an angle adjustment means or orientor to selectively orient the cover 14 with respect to the frame 318. The frame 318 has a bottom edge 370 which can be disposed on a manhole extension, as is known in the art. The bottom edge 370 is commonly oriented horizontally, or perpendicular to vertical. Preferably, the frame 318 also has a top edge 374 which advantageously is angled with respect to the bottom edge 370. The frame 318 has a perimeter wall 376 which varies in height from a shorter end to an opposite higher end.

In addition, the adaptor ring 330 preferably has a bottom edge 378 which is angled with respect to a top edge 382. The adaptor ring 330 has a perimeter wall 384 which varies in height from a shorter end to an opposite higher end. The angled bottom edge 378 rotatably engages the angled top edge 374 of the frame 318. The angled edges 378 and 374 form the orientor. Thus, the angular orientation of the adaptor ring 330, or upper edge 382 thereof, can be selectively oriented with respect to the frame 318, or bottom edge thereof 370. For example, the adaptor ring 330 and frame 318 can have a first position in which the top edge 382 of the adaptor ring 330 is parallel with the bottom edge 370 of the frame 318, such as by aligning the shorter end of the adaptor ring 330 with the higher end of the frame 318, as shown in FIG. 9. In addition, the adaptor ring 330 and frame 318 can have a second position in which the top edge 382 of the adaptor ring 330 forms an angle with respect to the bottom edge 370 of the frame 318, as shown in FIG. 10. Such an angle can be formed by selectively orienting or rotating the adaptor ring 330 with respect to the frame 318. It will be appreciated that a maximum angular orientation can be achieved by aligning the higher ends of the adaptor ring 330 and frame 318. hi one aspect, the angled top edge 374 of the frame 318 forms an angle with respect to the bottom edge 370 greater than 0 degrees, and less than or equal to 10 degrees. Similarly, the angled bottom edge 378 of the adaptor ring 330 preferably forms an angle with respect to the top edge 382 greater than 0 degrees, and less than or equal to 10 degrees. Thus, the adaptor ring 330 and frame 318 can be oriented or rotated with respect to one another to vary the angle between the bottom and top edges 370 and 382 between 0 and twenty degrees.

Referring to FIG. 12, the top edge 374 of the frame 318 can be configured to receive the bottom edge 378 of the adaptor ring 330. The top edge 374 can have a lip or flange upon which the bottom edge 378 abuts, and a perimeter wall surrounding the bottom edge 378. Thus, the adaptor ring 330 can rotate within the frame 318. It is of course understood that the mating structure can be reversed so that the top edge of the frame is received within the bottom edge of the adaptor ring. The angled edges 374 and 378 between the adaptor ring 330 and frame

318, or between the frame 318 and cover 14, are one example of an angle adjustment means for adjusting the angle of the cover 14 relative to the frame 318. It is of course understood that other means can be used, including for example, different angled edges, etc. It also is understood that the locations of the height adjustment means and the angle adjustment means can be reversed.

In addition, the rings and frame can be permanently fixed to each other by means of bolts, or pegs, or other secure means of bonding after having been adjusted. In addition, the rings also could be made with appropriate hand-grips, or means of inserting external handles, to facilitate the workers in repositioning the height adjustment.

It is noted that the height adjustment means and angle adjustment means are illustrated to be positioned between the cover 14 and the frame 318. Both, however, can be placed below the frame 318, and above the manhole extension 6 (FIGs. 1 and 5), and still achieve the same results. It should be noted that most top manhole assemblies are of a fixed height and fixed angular orientation design. In a typical installation the manhole is located in a road for access to a sewer. When a subsequent layer of material is added to the surface, the manhole covers are no longer flush with the road surface, hi one application of the present invention, the height or elevation of the cover 14 is increased, and the angular orientation adjusted. This provides a cost effective and efficient means of adjusting the height and angular orientation of manhole cover assemblies to match the suπounding surface. It is further noted that the frames and rings described above are designed to withstand the full weight of any passing vehicle or other live load. The frames and rings can be made out of cast iron or other strong material. A method for using the adjustable utility access 310 described above, or for adjusting the orientation and the height of the cover 14, includes the steps of locating the frame 318 with its opening 122 over the utility access; locating the cover 14 over the opening 122 of the frame; selectively rotating the first and second angled edges 374 and 378 to selectively orient the cover 14 with respect to the frame318; and selectively rotating the tab 150 with respect to the plurality of steps 146 to selectively adjust the height of the cover 14 with respect to the frame 318.

The step of selectively rotating the first and second angled edges 374 and 378 can further include selectively rotating the adaptor ring 330 with respect to the frame 318. Referring to FIGs. 13 and 14, the frame 318 and adaptor ring 330 advantageously can be rotated with respect to one another or the ground 396 using a lever arm 400 and protrusions form on, and extending from, the frame and adaptor ring. The frame can have one or more protrusions 404 extending therefrom in a radial direction, and extending beyond the circumference or perimeter of the frame 318. Similarly, the adaptor ring 330 can have one or more protrusions 408. The lever arm 400 can be used to engage the protrusions 404 or 408 to pivot the respective frame 318 or adaptor ring 330.

Referring to FIG. 14, the step of selectively rotating the adaptor ring can further include engaging the ground 396 with a distal end 412 of the lever arm 400. The protrusion 408 can be engaged by an intermediate portion 416 of the lever arm 400. The intermediate portion 416 is adjacent the distal end 412. Force, indicated by arrow 420, can be applied to a proximal end 424 of the lever arm 400 to pivot the lever arm 400 about the distal end 412, thus causing the intermediate portion 416 to move against the protrusion 408 and rotate the adaptor ring 330. Thus, the adaptor ring 330 can be pivoted with respect to the frame 318 to pivot the first and second angled edges 374 and 378 and adjust the angle of the upper end of the adaptor ring 330, and thus the cover 14.

Similarly, the frame 318 can be pivoted or rotated to further orient the angle of the cover 14. Referring to FIG. 13, the lever arm 400 can engage the ground 396 with its distal end 412, and engage the protrusion 404 with its intermediate portion 416. Force 420 can be applied to the proximal end 424 of the lever arm 400 to pivot the lever arm 400 about its distal end 412 causing the intermediate section 416 to move against the protrusion 404 and rotate the frame 318. Thus, the frame 318 can be pivoted or rotated to orient the angle of the cover 14. It will be appreciated that the frame 318 and the adaptor ring 330 can have significant weight, and thus be difficult to pivot or rotate by hand, fti addition, it will be appreciated that the frame 318 and the adaptor ring 330 are located near ground level, making it difficult for workers to squat and turn. Thus, the lever arm 400 and protrusions 404 and 408 advantageously provide a method for pivoting or rotating the frame 318 and adaptor ring 330. In addition, the protrusions 404 and 408 can act as anchors to resist further movement as concrete or asphalt us poured about the frame and adaptor ring.

Furthermore, the step of selectively rotating the at least one tab with respect to the plurality of steps can further include selectively rotating the extension ring 134 with respect to the adaptor ring 330. The extension ring 134 may need to be lifted before it is rotated due to the walls 154.

It is to be understood that the above-described arrangements are only illustrative of the application of the principles of the present invention. Numerous modifications and alternative arrangements may be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention and the appended claims are intended to cover such modifications and arrangements. Thus, while the present invention has been shown in the drawings and fully described above with particularity and detail in connection with what is presently deemed to be the most practical and prefeπed embodiment(s) of the invention, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that numerous modifications, including, but not limited to, variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use may be made, without departing from the principles and concepts of the invention as set forth in the claims.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An angularly adjustable utility access device, comprising: a) a cover, configured to cover access to a utility access; and b) an adjusting means, coupled between the cover and the utility access, for adjusting the angle of the cover relative to a top edge of the utility access.

2. A device in accordance with claim 1, wherein the adjusting means further includes : a) a first position that provides for zero degrees of slope between the cover and the top edge of the utility access; and b) a second position that provides for up to and including twenty degrees of slope between the cover and the top edge of the utility access.

3. A device in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the adjusting means comprises: a) a base ring, having:

1) a bottom base ring edge, designed to be rotatably and removably coupled to the utility access; and

2) an angled top edge, forming an angle in the range of between two to ten degrees with the bottom base ring edge.

4. A device in accordance with claim 3, wherein the adjusting means further comprises: b) a rotatable ring, having:

1) a bottom edge, designed to be rotatably and removably coupled to the angled top edge of the base ring; and

2) a angled top edge, forming an angle in the range of between two to ten degree from the bottom edge of the rotatable ring.

5. A device in accordance with claim 1, wherein the utility access is a manhole; and wherein the frame is configured to be attached to a manhole extension.

6. A height adjustable utility access device, comprising: a) a frame, configured to be secured over a utility, having an opening therethrough; b) a cover, removably disposed over the opening of the frame; and c) height adjustment means, disposed between the frame and the cover, for adjusting the height of the cover relative to the frame.

7. A device in accordance with claim 6, wherein the height adjustment means includes: a) a first position that maintains the cover at a first height; and b) a different second position that maintains the cover at a different second height.

8. A device in accordance with claim 6, wherein the height adjustment means includes: a) a plurality of pockets, formed about a circumference of the opening, having bottoms disposed at different elevations; and b) at least one mating tab, selectively mating with at least one of the pockets, to selectively position the tab at a desired elevation.

9. A device in accordance with claim 6, wherein the height adjustment means includes: a) a plurality of steps, formed on the frame, at different elevations; and b) an extension, disposed on the frame, having at least one tab selectively engagable with at least one of the plurality of steps to selectively elevate the extension with respect to the frame.

10. A device in accordance with claim 6, wherein the height adjustment means includes: a) an adaptor ring, disposed on the frame, having a plurality of steps at different elevations formed about a circumference thereof; and b) an extension ring, disposed on the adaptor ring, having at least one tab selectively engagable with at least one of the plurality of steps to selectively elevate the extension with respect to the frame.

11. A device in accordance with claim 10, wherein each step includes a wall disposed between the step and a proximal step to prevent the at least one tab from inadvertently moving from the step to the proximal step.

12. A device in accordance with claim 6, wherein the height adjustment means includes: a) a first ring, disposed on the frame, having a plurality of steps at different elevations; and b) a second ring, disposed on the first ring, having a plurality of steps at different elevations, the plurality of steps of the first and second rings being selectively engagable to selectively elevate the second ring with respect to the first ring.

13. A device in accordance with claim 6, further comprising: at least one projection, extending outwardly from the frame and past a perimeter thereof.

14. A device in accordance with claim 6, wherein the utility access is a manhole; and wherein the frame is configured to be attached to a manhole extension.

15. A height and angle adjustable utility access device, comprising: a) a frame, configured to be secured over a utility, having an opening therethrough; b) a cover, removably disposed over the opening of the frame; c) height adjustment means, disposed between the frame and the cover, for adjusting the height of the cover relative to the frame; and d) angle adjustment means, disposed between the frame and the cover, for adjusting the angle of the cover relative to the frame.

16. A device in accordance with claim 15, wherein the height adjustment means includes: a) a first position that maintains the cover at a first height; and b) a different second position that maintains the cover at a different second height; and wherein the angle adjustment means includes: a) a first position in which the cover is parallel with a bottom edge of the frame; and b) a second position in which the cover forms an angle with respect to the bottom edge of the frame greater than 0 degrees and less than 20 degrees.

17. A device in accordance with claim 15, wherein the angle adjustment means further comprises: a) an adaptor ring, rotatably disposed on the frame; and b) first and second angled edges formed between the adaptor ring and frame, with the frame including the first angled edge, and the adaptor ring including the second angled edge, to selectively orient a top edge of the adaptor ring with a bottom edge of the frame.

18. A device in accordance with claim 17, further comprising: at least one projection, extending outwardly from the adaptor ring and past a perimeter thereof, configured to facilitate selective orientation of the adaptor ring during installation while resisting movement of the adaptor ring after installation.

19. A device in accordance with claim 15, wherein the height adjustment means and the angle adjustment means further comprise: a) the frame having a first angled edge; b) an adaptor ring, rotatably disposed on the frame, having a second angled edge rotatably engagable with the first angled edge of the frame, and having a plurality of steps formed thereon; and c) an extension ring, selectively disposed on the adaptor ring, having at least one tab attached thereto and selectively engagable with at least one of the plurality of steps.

20. A device in accordance with claim 15, wherein the height adjustment means includes: a) a plurality of pockets, formed about a circumference of the opening, having bottoms disposed at different elevations; and b) at least one mating tab, selectively mating with at least one of the pockets, to selectively position the tab at a desired elevation.

21. A device in accordance with claim 15, wherein the height adjustment means includes: a) an adaptor ring, disposed on the frame, having a plurality of steps at different elevations formed about a circumference thereof; and b) an extension ring, disposed on the adaptor ring, having at least one tab selectively engagable with at least one of the plurality of steps to selectively elevate the extension with respect to the frame.

22. A device in accordance with claim 15, further comprising: at least one projection, extending outwardly from the frame and past a perimeter thereof, configured to facilitate selective orientation of the frame during installation while resisting movement of the frame after installation.

23. A device in accordance with claim 15, wherein the utility access is a manhole; and wherein the frame is configured to be attached to a manhole extension.

24. A method for adjusting an orientation and a height of a cover for a utility access, comprising the steps of: a) locating a frame having an opening therethrough over the utility access; b) locating the cover over the opening of the frame; c) selectively rotating first and second angled edges to selectively orient the cover with respect to the frame, the first angled edge forming an angle greater than 0 degrees with respect to a bottom edge of the frame, and the second angled edge forming an angle greater than 0 degrees with respect to the cover; and d) selectively rotating at least one tab with respect to a plurality of steps to selectively adjust a height of the cover with respect to the frame.

25. A method in accordance with claim 24, wherein the first and second angled edges are disposed between the frame and the cover; and wherein the at least one tab and the plurality of steps are disposed between the frame and the cover.

26. A method in accordance with claim 24, wherein the step of selectively rotating the first and second angled edges further includes: selectively rotating an adaptor ring with respect to the frame, the frame and adaptor ring having the respective first and second angled edges, the first angled edge forming an angle with respect to an opposite edge of the frame greater than 0 degrees, and the second angled edge forming an angle with respect to an opposite edge of the adaptor ring greater than 0 degrees.

27. A method in accordance with claim 24, wherein the step of selectively rotating the adaptor ring further includes: a) engaging the ground with a distal end of a lever arm; b) engaging a protrusion which extends from the adaptor ring with an intermediate section of the lever arm which is adjacent the distal end; and c) pivoting the lever arm about the distal end thereof by applying a force to a proximal end of the lever arm.

28. A method in accordance with claim 27, further comprising the steps of: a) engaging the ground with a distal end of a lever arm; b) engaging a protrusion which extends from the frame with an intermediate section of the lever arm which is adjacent the distal end; and c) pivoting the lever arm about the distal end thereof by applying a force to a proximal end of the lever arm.

29. A method in accordance with claim 24, wherein the step of selectively rotating the at least one tab with respect to the plurality of steps further includes: selectively rotating an extension ring with respect to an adaptor ring, the adaptor ring having the plurality of steps formed thereon, and the extension ring having the at least one tab attached thereto to selectively engage at least one of the plurality of steps of the adaptor ring.

30. A method in accordance with claim 24, wherein the step of selectively rotating first and second angled edges, and the step of selectively rotating the at least one tab with respect to the plurality of steps, further include the steps of: a) selectively rotating an adaptor ring with respect to the frame, the frame and adaptor ring having the respective first and second angled edgeδ; and b) selectively rotating an extension ring with respect to the adaptor ring, the adaptor ring having the plurality of steps formed thereon, and the extension ring having the at least one tab attached thereto to selectively engage at least one of the plurality of steps of the adaptor ring.

31. A method in accordance with claim 30, wherein the step of selectively rotating the adaptor ring further includes: a) engaging the ground with a distal end of a lever arm; b) engaging a protrusion which extends from the adaptor ring with an intermediate section of the lever arm which is adjacent the distal end; and c) pivoting the lever arm about the distal end thereof by applying a force to a proximal end of the lever arm.

32. A method in accordance with claim 31 , further comprising the steps of: a) engaging the ground with a distal end of a lever arm; b) engaging a protrusion which extends from the frame with an intermediate section of the lever arm which is adjacent the distal end; and c) pivoting the lever arm about the distal end thereof by applying a force to a proximal end of the lever arm.