| |
| United States Patent
|
6,743,360 |
| Petersen , et al. |
June 1, 2004 |
Manhole debris-catching system
Abstract
A debris-catching system for preventing debris from falling into
the pipe opening at the bottom of a manhole catch basin. The
debris-catcher comprises two semi-circular halves hinged together
such that the two halves may be folded and inserted into a manhole
opening. The debris-catcher comprises aligned apertures that allow
it to be hooked and lowered into a manhole. The two halves are
opened up to form a circular blocker which sets on the manhole
bottom flat base. The debris-catcher allows normal effluent flow
through the manhole while in place. The debris-catcher floats and
will do so during an overflow condition. Further, the debris-catcher
will resume its protective function after an overflow condition has
subsided.
| Inventors: |
Petersen; John G.
(Phoenix, AZ), Holmes; William C. (Phoenix, AZ) |
| Appl. No.:
|
10/614,874 |
| Filed: |
July 7, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
|
921768 |
Aug., 2001 |
6613228 |
|
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| Current U.S.
Class: |
210/541 ;
405/36; 52/124.2; 52/20; 52/21 |
| Current
International Class: |
E03F
5/00 (20060101); E03F 5/02 (20060101); E02D 029/12 (); E02D
029/14 () |
| Field of
Search: |
210/541
52/20,21,124.2 405/36 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent
Documents
Primary Examiner: Lithgow; Thomas M.
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
Stoneman; Martin L.
Parent Case Text
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
The present application is a continuation-in-part of related
application Ser. No. 09/921,768, filed Aug. 3, 2001 now U.S. Pat.
No. 6,613,228, entitled "MANHOLE DEBRIS-CATCHING SYSTEM", which is
related to prior provisional application Serial No. 60/228,355,
filed Aug. 28, 2000, entitled "DYNAMIC DEBRIS SHIELD", the contents
of both of which are incorporated herein by this reference and are
not admitted to be prior art with respect to the present invention
by the mention in this cross-reference section.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A debris-catching system for impeding debris from entering pipe
trench portions of a manhole catch basin having a round top with a
first diameter, flat bottom portions extending over a first area
having a second diameter larger than the first diameter, and pipe
trench portions below the flat bottom portions, said system
comprising, in combination: a) substantially-rigid blocker means,
supportable by the flat bottom portions and larger than the round
top, for blocking debris from entering the pipe trench portions; and
b) fold means for folding said blocker means so as to permit entry
of said blocker means, when folded, into the manhole catch basin
through the round top; c) at least one support means for supporting
said substantially-rigid blocker means and cooperating with at least
one blocker lifting device; and d) connector means for connecting
said substantially-rigid blocker means with said at least one
support means.
2. A debris-catching system for impeding debris from entering pipe
trench portions of a manhole catch basin having a round top with a
first diameter, flat bottom portions extending over a first area
having a second diameter larger than the first diameter, and pipe
trench portions below the flat bottom portions, said system
comprising, in combination: a) at least one substantially-rigid
blocker, supportable by the flat bottom portions and larger than the
round top, structured and arranged, when not folded and when
supported by the flat bottom portions, to block debris from entering
the pipe trench portions; b) at least one hinge structured and
arranged to permit folding of said at least one substantially-rigid
blocker so as to permit entry of said at least one
substantially-rigid blocker, when folded, through the round top; c)
at least one support structured and arranged to support said at
least one substantially-rigid blocker and cooperate with at least
one blocker lifting device; and d) at least one connector structured
and arranged to connect said at least one substantially-rigid
blocker with said at least one support.
3. The debris-catching system according to claim 2 wherein said at
least one substantially-rigid blocker comprises at least one hinge
connection having at least one hinge axis through a center of said
at least one blocker to permit folding of said at least one
substantially-rigid blocker along said at least one hinge axis.
4. The debris-catching system according to claim 3 wherein said at
least one connector and said at least one support are structured and
arranged to open said at least one hinge upon lowering onto the
manhole catch basin by the at least one blocker lifting device to
properly place said at least one substantially-rigid blocker.
5. The debris-catching system according to claim 3 wherein said at
least one connector and said at least one support are structured and
arranged to close said at least one hinge upon raising from the
manhole catch basin by the at least one blocker lifting device of
said at least one substantially-rigid blocker.
6. The debris-catching system according to claim 4 wherein said at
least one connector and said at least one support are structured and
arranged to close said at least one hinge upon raising from the
manhole catch basin by the at least one blocker lifting device of
said at least one substantially-rigid blocker.
7. The debris-catching system according to claim 6 wherein said at
least one support comprises at least one flexible tensioner
perpendicular to, adjacent to, and above said hinge axis.
8. The debris-catching system according to claim 7 wherein said at
least one flexible tensioner comprises a steel cable.
9. The debris-catching system according to claim 7 wherein said at
least one flexible tensioner is structured and arranged to support
said at least one substantially-rigid blocker while being grabbed by
the at least one blocker lifting device.
10. The debris-catching system according to claim 7 further
comprising at least one blocker lifting device structured and
arranged to grab the at least one flexible tensioner.
11. The debris-catching system according to claim 10 wherein said at
least one lifting device comprises: at least one pole, having at
least one hook, structured and arranged to removably grab the at
least one flexible tensioner.
12. The debris-catching system according to claim 8 wherein said at
least one connector further comprises at least two eye-end bolts
having said steel cable attached between each respective of said at
least two eye-ends.
13. The debris-catching system according to claim 11 wherein said at
least one hinge connection comprises: a) three corrosion-resistant
strap hinges; and b) a plurality of corrosion-resistant bolts,
corrosion-resistant washers, and corrosion-resistant nuts; and c) at
least one strap connector, placed across said hinge axis, structured
and arranged to be grabbed by said at least one hook; d) wherein
said plurality of corrosion-resistant bolts, corrosion-resistant
washers and corrosion-resistant nuts connects said
corrosion-resistant strap hinges to said substantially-rigid
blocker; and e) wherein said at least one strap connector, when
grabbed by said at least one hook, assists a user to place said
substantially-rigid blocker in said open substantially-flat
position.
14. A debris-catching system for impeding debris from entering pipe
trench portions of a manhole catch basin having a round top with a
first diameter, flat bottom portions extending over a first area
having a second diameter larger than the first diameter, and pipe
trench portions below the flat bottom portions, said system
comprising, in combination: a) a substantially round blocker,
wherein said blocker comprises, i) at least one substantially-rigid
structural material, ii) two half-portions, and iii) at least one
hinge connection connecting said two half-portions; b) wherein said
substantially round blocker may be placed in a substantially folded
position and in an open substantially-flat position, c) wherein each
said half-portion comprises an eye-end, each said eye-end having at
least one wire attached between said eye-ends and being structured
and arranged to place said blocker in a substantially folded
position when said wire is pulled, d) wherein said wire may be used
in lifting and lowering said substantially round blocker when said
substantially round blocker is in said substantially folded
position; and e) wherein said substantially round blocker, when in
said open substantially-flat position, is structured and arranged to
be able to substantially cover the pipe trench portions.
15. The debris-catching system according to claim 14 wherein said at
least one substantially round blocker has a diameter selected from
the group consisting of: a) diameters of about forty-four inches to
about forty-eight inches and; b) diameters of about fifty-four
inches to about sixty inches.
16. The debris-catching system according to claim 14 wherein said at
least one substantially-rigid structural material comprises High
Density Polyethylene (HDPE).
17. A method of using a debris-catcher for impeding debris from
entering pipe trench portions of a manhole catch basin having a
round top with a first diameter, flat bottom portions extending over
a first area having a second diameter larger than the first
diameter, and pipe trench portions below the flat bottom portions
wherein the debris catcher comprises a substantially round blocker
comprising a substantially-rigid structural material, two
half-portions, at least one hinge connection having a hinge axis and
connecting the two half-portions, and wherein the blocker may be
placed in a substantially folded position or in an open
substantially-flat position, and wherein each such half-portion
comprises at least one flexible tensioner, perpendicular to said
hinge axis, being structured and arranged to support said at least
one substantially round blocker while being grabbed by at least one
blocker rigid lifting device, comprising the steps of: a) selecting
a debris-catcher having such desired diameter of such required end
size structured and arranged to substantially cover such pipe trench
portions below such flat bottom portions when opened to a
substantially-flat position; b) grabbing such at least one flexible
tensioner with such at least one blocker rigid lifting device and
lifting and lowering such folded debris-catcher through such top of
such manhole and down through such manhole catch basin to such flat
bottom portions; c) un-attaching such at least one blocker rigid
lifting device from such debris-catcher; d) unfolding such
debris-catcher such that such debris-catcher is opened with such
hinges facing upward toward such top of such manhole; e) aligning
such hinge axis so that most of such hinge axis is supported by such
flat bottom portions; and f) placing such rigid lifting device
against at least one hinge and pressing such debris catcher into a
substantially-flat position.
Description
BACKGROUND
This invention relates to providing a debris-catching system for
preventing debris from falling or being thrown, etc., into the pipe
opening (sometimes herein called "pipe trench") at the bottom of a
manhole catch basin.
Typically, manholes are placed for the purpose of servicing storm or
sewer systems. Such manholes typically consist of a bottom catch
basin constructed of brick, pre-cast concrete or poured-on-site
concrete set at the level of the fluid transferring pipe. One end of
at least one pipe typically is set into the manhole such that the
effluent flows into one or more trenches in the manhole bottom and
flows through the manhole into one or more pipes entering other
portions of the manhole. Such other pipes are generally within the
same vertical elevation, but sometimes may be at slightly varied
elevations. Such pipe may be only a few feet below ground, to many
feet below ground, in a general range of about four to twenty feet.
Catch basins are usually provided in pre-selected diameters.
Typically, pre-cast sections of the manhole may be added to the
lower portion to adjust the manhole in height to account for the
depth required to reach the surface height. The manhole typically
comprises a ladder (made up of ladder rungs spaced apart) within it
in which a person may use to descend to the manhole bottom. The
manhole is typically removably sealed by a cover, which is usually
flush with the surface. The surface usually consists of landscape,
an alleyway, parking area or roadway, as the storm and sewer lines
are generally placed within an easement in such an area.
In new construction, the manhole is placed and the piping is
attached to the manhole. However, because the surface is usually the
last area to be finished, the manhole is only temporarily covered.
Such covers are usually made of metal and cover only the top of the
manhole. Debris often enters the manhole as vehicles and other
construction activity occurs. Such debris may easily amount to
hundreds of pounds of dirt, asphalt or rain-washed debris from the
construction site. The piping may or may not be in use during this
construction activity. If the piping is new and not in use, it is
usually inspected prior to being buried. After such inspection, it
is a costly endeavor to expose the pipe, or have it vacuumed out if
it becomes blocked due to debris. If the piping is in use, an
expensive and messy blockage may occur.
A need exists to adequately protect such piping in a manhole from
debris blockage while still permitting the piping to be utilized.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
A primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide
a system for blocking debris from entering the piping system of a
manhole.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system that assists in preventing debris from
entering the piping system within the manhole.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system that is easily installed and removed.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system that provides for the continued system
operation in the event the manhole is flooded.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system that provides a lifting and setting device for
assisting in the placement and removal of the system from a manhole.
A further primary object and feature of the present invention is to
provide such a system that is efficient, inexpensive, and handy.
Other objects and features of this invention will become apparent
with reference to the following descriptions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention
provides a debris-catching system for impeding debris from entering
pipe trench portions of a manhole catch basin, having a round top
with a first diameter, flat bottom portions extending over a first
area having a second diameter larger than the first diameter, and
pipe trench portions below the flat bottom portions, comprising, in
combination: substantially-rigid blocker means, supportable by the
flat bottom portions and larger than the round top, for blocking
debris from entering the pipe trench portions; and fold means for
folding such blocker means so as to permit entry of such blocker
means, when folded, into the manhole catch basin through the round
top.
Additionally, it provides such a system wherein such blocker means
comprises attachment means for attaching at least one lifting device
to such blocker means. It also provides such a system wherein such
attachment means comprises at least one aperture; and it provides
such a system wherein such blocker means is floatable. Further, it
provides such a system wherein such fold means comprises at least
one hinge. And, it provides such a system wherein such blocker
means, when not folded and when supported by the flat bottom
portions, is capable of substantially covering the pipe trench
portions. Moreover, it provides such a system wherein such blocker
means, when not folded and when supported by the flat bottom
portions, is capable of substantially covering the pipe trench
portions. It provides such a system wherein such blocker means, when
not folded and when supported by the flat bottom portions, is
capable of supporting at least about one-hundred pounds.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a debris-catching system for impeding debris from
entering pipe trench portions of a manhole catch basin, having a
round top with a first diameter, flat bottom portions extending over
a first area having a second diameter larger than the first
diameter, and pipe trench portions below the flat bottom portions,
comprising, in combination: substantially-rigid blocker, supportable
by the flat bottom portions and larger than the round top,
structured and arranged, when not folded and when supported by the
flat bottom portions, to block debris from entering the pipe trench
portions; and at least one hinge structured and arranged to permit
folding of such blocker so as to permit entry of such blocker, when
folded, through the round top.
It also provides such a system wherein such blocker is substantially
round. And, it provides such a system wherein such blocker comprises
at least one hinge connection having at least one hinge axis through
a center of such blocker. It even provides such a system wherein
such blocker is floatable. Further, it provides such a system
wherein such at least one hinge connection comprises three
corrosion-resistant strap hinges. And, it provides such a system
wherein such at least one hinge connection comprises: three
stainless steel strap hinges; and a plurality of stainless steel
bolts, corrosion resistant washers, and stainless steel nuts;
wherein such plurality of stainless steel bolts, corrosion resistant
washers and stainless steel nuts connects such three stainless steel
strap hinges with such blocker.
Even further, it provides such a system wherein such blocker
comprises at least one attachment structured and arranged to permit
removable attaching of at least one lifting device to such blocker.
It also provides such a system wherein such attachment comprises at
least one aperture. Still further, it provides such a system wherein
such blocker, when not folded and when supported by the flat bottom
portions, substantially covers the pipe trench portions. And, it
provides such a system wherein such blocker is capable of supporting
at least one-hundred pounds of debris. Still further, it provides
such a system wherein such blocker is capable of supporting at least
one normal-sized worker.
In accordance with yet another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a debris-catching system for impeding debris from
entering pipe trench portions of a manhole catch basin, having a
round top with a first diameter, flat bottom portions extending over
a first area having a second diameter larger than the first
diameter, and pipe trench portions below the flat bottom portions,
comprising, in combination: a substantially round blocker, wherein
such blocker comprises, a substantially-rigid structural material,
two half-portions, at least one hinge connection connecting such two
half-portions; wherein such blocker may be placed in a substantially
folded position and in an open substantially-flat position, wherein
each such half-portion comprises an aperture, each such aperture
being structured and arranged to align with each other such aperture
when such blocker is placed in such substantially folded position,
whereby such apertures may be used as attachments in lifting and
lowering such blocker when such blocker is in such substantially
folded position; wherein such substantially round blocker, when in
such open substantially-flat position, is structured and arranged to
be able to substantially cover the pipe trench portions.
Additionally, it provides such a system wherein such substantially
round blocker has a diameter selected from the group consisting of:
diameters of about forty-four inches to about forty-eight inches;
diameters of about fifty-four inches to about sixty inches. And, it
provides such a system wherein such structural material comprises
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE). Further, it provides such a system
wherein such at least one hinge connection comprises: three
corrosion-resistant strap hinges; and a plurality of
corrosion-resistant bolts, corrosion-resistant washers, and
corrosion-resistant nuts; wherein such plurality of
corrosion-resistant bolts, corrosion-resistant washers and
corrosion-resistant nuts connects such corrosion-resistant strap
hinges to such substantially round blocker. In accordance with a
preferred embodiment hereof, this invention also provides a method
of making a debris-catcher, for impeding debris from entering pipe
trench portions of a manhole catch basin, having a round top with a
first diameter, flat bottom portions extending over a first area
having a second diameter larger than the first diameter, and pipe
trench portions below the flat bottom portions, comprising the steps
of: providing a structural material having an area capable of being
cut to a diameter of the required end size; cutting such structural
material into two equal halves; cutting each such half in a
semi-circle shape having a radius half that of such desired end
diameter of such debris-catcher so that each such respective half is
substantially equal to each other such half; drilling a lifting
aperture in each such half wherein: each such lifting aperture is
structured and arranged to align with each other respective such
lifting aperture when each respective such half is aligned; and
whereby each respective aligned lifting aperture can be used
together to lift such halves when aligned; drilling a plurality of
hinge-installation apertures in each such half in such manner as to
enable insertion of a corrosion-resistant bolt through each
respective such hinge-installation aperture; attaching at least one
hinge to each such half using such corrosion-resistant bolts, at
least one washer, and at least one corrosion-resistant nut, along a
hinge axis corresponding to a flat edge of each such half so that
such halves can be folded together in a folded position for entry
through the top and opened to a substantially-flat position to
provided a round such debris catcher having such desired diameter of
such required end size. It also provides such a system wherein such
structural material comprises High Density Polyethylene (HDPE). And,
it provides such a system wherein such at least one hinge comprises
three corrosion-resistant strap hinges.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention also provides a method of using a debris-catcher for
impeding debris from entering pipe trench portions of a manhole
catch basin, having a round top with a first diameter, flat bottom
portions extending over a first area having a second diameter larger
than the first diameter, and pipe trench portions below the flat
bottom portions wherein the debris catcher comprises a substantially
round blocker comprising a substantially-rigid structural material,
two half-portions, at least one hinge connection having a hinge axis
and connecting the two half-portions, and wherein the blocker may be
placed in a substantially folded position or in an open
substantially-flat position, and wherein each such half-portion
comprises an aperture, each such aperture being structured and
arranged to align with each other such aperture when such blocker is
placed in such substantially folded position, comprising the steps
of: selecting a debris-catcher having such desired diameter of such
required end size structured and arranged to substantially cover the
pipe trench portions below the flat bottom portions when opened to a
substantially-flat position; folding the debris-catcher in a folded
position along a hinge axis corresponding to a flat edge of each
such half so that such halves can be folded together in a folded
position for entry through the round top of the manhole; attaching a
lifting device through each aligned aperture and lifting and
lowering the debris-catcher through the top of the manhole and down
through the manhole catch basin to the flat bottom portions;
un-attaching the lifting device from the debris-catcher; unfolding
the debris-catcher such that the debris-catcher is opened to a
substantially-flat position with the hinges facing upward toward the
top of the manhole; aligning the hinge axis such that most of the
hinge axis is supported by the flat bottom portions.
In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention
provides a debris-catching system for impeding debris from entering
pipe trench portions of a manhole catch basin having a round top
with a first diameter, flat bottom portions extending over a first
area having a second diameter larger than the first diameter, and
pipe trench portions below the flat bottom portions, such system
comprising, in combination: substantially-rigid blocker means,
supportable by the flat bottom portions and larger than the round
top, for blocking debris from entering the pipe trench portions; and
fold means for folding such blocker means so as to permit entry of
such blocker means, when folded, into the manhole catch basin
through the round top; support means for supporting such
substantially-rigid blocker means and cooperating with at least one
blocker lifting device; and connector means for connecting such
substantially-rigid blocker means with such at least one support.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a debris-catching system for impeding debris from
entering pipe trench portions of a manhole catch basin having a
round top with a first diameter, flat bottom portions extending over
a first area having a second diameter larger than the first
diameter, and pipe trench portions below the flat bottom portions,
such system comprising, in combination: at least one
substantially-rigid blocker, supportable by the flat bottom portions
and larger than the round top, structured and arranged, when not
folded and when supported by the flat bottom portions, to block
debris from entering the pipe trench portions; at least one hinge
structured and arranged to permit folding of such at least one
substantially-rigid blocker so as to permit entry of such at least
one substantially-rigid blocker, when folded, through the round top;
at least one support structured and arranged to support such at
least one substantially-rigid blocker and cooperate with at least
one blocker lifting device; and at least one connector structured
and arranged to connect such at least one substantially-rigid
blocker with such at least one support. Moreover, it provides such a
debris-catching system wherein such at least one substantially-rigid
blocker comprises at least one hinge connection having at least one
hinge axis through a center of such at least one blocker to permit
folding of such at least one substantially-rigid blocker along such
at least one hinge axis. Additionally, it provides such a
debris-catching system wherein such at least one connector and such
at least one support are structured and arranged to open such at
least one hinge upon lowering onto the manhole catch basin by the at
least one blocker lifting device to properly place such at least one
substantially-rigid blocker. Also, it provides such a
debris-catching system wherein such at least one connector and such
at least one support are structured and arranged to close such at
least one hinge upon raising from the manhole catch basin by the at
least one blocker lifting device of such at least one
substantially-rigid blocker. In addition, it provides such a
debris-catching system wherein such at least one connector and such
at least one support are structured and arranged to close such at
least one hinge upon raising from the manhole catch basin by the at
least one blocker lifting device of such at least one
substantially-rigid blocker. And, it provides such a debris-catching
system wherein such at least one support comprises at least one
flexible tensioner perpendicular to, adjacent to, and above such
hinge axis. Further, it provides such a debris-catching system
wherein such at least one flexible tensioner comprises a steel
cable. Even further, it provides such a debris-catching system
wherein such at least one flexible tensioner is structured and
arranged to support such at least one substantially-rigid blocker
while being grabbed by the at least one blocker lifting device.
Moreover, it provides such a debris-catching system further
comprising at least one blocker lifting device structured and
arranged to grab the at least one flexible tensioner. Additionally,
it provides such a debris-catching system wherein such at least one
lifting device comprises: at least one pole, having at least one
hook, structured and arranged to removably grab the at least one
flexible tensioner. Also, it provides such a debris-catching system
wherein such at least one connector further comprises at least two
eye-end bolts having such steel cable attached between each
respective of such at least two eye-ends. In addition, it provides
such a debris-catching system wherein such at least one hinge
connection comprises: three corrosion-resistant strap hinges; and a
plurality of corrosion-resistant bolts, corrosion-resistant washers,
and corrosion-resistant nuts; and at least one strap connector,
placed across such hinge axis, structured and arranged to be grabbed
by such at least one hook; wherein such plurality of
corrosion-resistant bolts, corrosion-resistant washers and
corrosion-resistant nuts connects such corrosion-resistant strap
hinges to such substantially-rigid blocker; and wherein such at
least one strap connector, when grabbed by such at least one hook,
assists a user to place such substantially-rigid blocker in such
open substantially-flat position.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a debris-catching system for impeding debris from
entering pipe trench portions of a manhole catch basin having a
round top with a first diameter, flat bottom portions extending over
a first area having a second diameter larger than the first
diameter, and pipe trench portions below the flat bottom portions,
such system comprising, in combination: a substantially round
blocker, wherein such blocker comprises, at least one
substantially-rigid structural material, two half-portions, at least
one hinge connection connecting such two half-portions; wherein such
substantially round blocker may be placed in a substantially folded
position and in an open substantially-flat position, wherein each
such half-portion comprises an eye-end, each such eye-end having at
least one wire attached between such eye-ends and being structured
and arranged to place such blocker in a substantially folded
position when such wire is pulled, wherein such wire may be used in
lifting and lowering such substantially round blocker when such
substantially round blocker is in such substantially folded
position; wherein such substantially round blocker, when in such
open substantially-flat position, is structured and arranged to be
able to substantially cover the pipe trench portions. And, it
provides such a debris-catching system wherein such at least one
substantially round blocker has a diameter selected from the group
consisting of: diameters of about forty-four inches to about
forty-eight inches; diameters of about fifty-four inches to about
sixty inches. Further, it provides such a debris-catching system
wherein such at least one substantially-rigid structural material
comprises High Density Polyethylene (HDPE).
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a method of using a debris-catcher for impeding
debris from entering pipe trench portions of a manhole catch basin
having a round top with a first diameter, flat bottom portions
extending over a first area having a second diameter larger than the
first diameter, and pipe trench portions below the flat bottom
portions wherein the debris catcher comprises a substantially round
blocker comprising a substantially-rigid structural material, two
half-portions, at least one hinge connection having a hinge axis and
connecting the two half-portions, and wherein the blocker may be
placed in a substantially folded position or in an open
substantially-flat position, and wherein each such half-portion
comprises at least one flexible tensioner, perpendicular to such
hinge axis, being structured and arranged to support such at least
one substantially round blocker while being grabbed by at least one
blocker rigid lifting device, comprising the steps of: selecting a
debris-catcher having such desired diameter of such required end
size structured and arranged to substantially cover such pipe trench
portions below such flat bottom portions when opened to a
substantially-flat position; grabbing such at least one flexible
tensioner with such at least one blocker rigid lifting device and
lifting and lowering such folded debris-catcher through such top of
such manhole and down through such manhole catch basin to such flat
bottom portions; un-attaching such at least one blocker rigid
lifting device from such debris-catcher; unfolding such
debris-catcher such that such debris-catcher is opened to with such
hinges facing upward toward such top of such manhole; aligning such
hinge axis so that most of such hinge axis is supported by such flat
bottom portions; and placing such rigid lifting device against at
least one hinge and pressing such debris catcher into a
substantially-flat position.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view, partially in section, of a typical
manhole structure illustrating the debris-catching system and
insertion of a debris-catcher, according to a preferred embodiment
of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view, partially in section, of a typical
manhole structure and an installed debris-catcher, according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a debris-catcher in the open
position, according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a debris-catcher in a partially
folded position, according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view, partially in section, of the lower
section of a typical manhole structure illustrating the
debris-catcher blocking debris, according to a preferred embodiment
of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a sectional view through the section 6--6 of FIG. 2.
FIG. 7 is a top view, partially in section, illustrating the
preferred joint placement of the debris-catcher in a single pipeline
manhole installation, according to a preferred embodiment of the
present invention.
FIG. 8 is a top view, partially in section, illustrating the
preferred joint placement of the debris-catcher in a three-way
Y-pipeline manhole installation, according to a preferred embodiment
of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a top view, partially in section, illustrating the
preferred joint placement of the debris-catcher in a two-way
Y-pipeline manhole installation, according to a preferred embodiment
of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a top view of a debris-catcher, according to a preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a sectional view through the section 11--11 of FIG. 10.
FIG. 12 is a side view of the debris-catcher, according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a side view of the debris-catcher in a partially folded
position, illustrating the folding range of motion, according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 14 is a top view of the debris-catcher in the folded position,
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic top view of the first step in a method of
making a debris-catcher, according to a preferred embodiment of the
present invention.
FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic top view of another step in a method of
making a debris-catcher, according to a preferred embodiment of the
present invention.
FIG. 17 is a diagrammatic top view of yet another step in a method
of making a debris-catcher, according to a preferred embodiment of
the present invention.
FIG. 18 is a perspective view, partially in section, of a further
step in a method of making a debris-catcher, according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a lifting and setting assembly of
the debris-catching system according to another preferred embodiment
of the present invention.
FIG. 20 is a section view through section 20--20 of FIG. 19.
FIG. 21 is a section view through section 21--21 of FIG. 19.
FIG. 22 is a section view through section 22--22 of FIG. 19.
FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the lifting and setting assembly of
FIG. 19 in use.
FIG. 24 is another perspective view of the lifting and setting
assembly of FIG. 19 in use.
FIG. 25 is a perspective view, partially in section, of the lifting
and setting assembly of FIG. 19 in use.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION
Reference is now made to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view,
partially in section, of a typical manhole structure 30 illustrating
the debris-catching system 28 and insertion of a debris-catcher 32
(embodying herein substantially-rigid blocker means, supportable by
the flat bottom portions and larger than the round top, for blocking
debris from entering the pipe trench portions; and also embodying
herein a substantially-rigid blocker, supportable by the flat bottom
portions and larger than the round top, structured and arranged,
when not folded and when supported by the flat bottom portions, to
block debris from entering the pipe trench portions), according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention. A typical manhole
structure 30 comprises a lower portion 34, a top portion 36, and may
comprise one or more center portions 38. The center portions 38
assist in adjusting the manhole structure 30 to the approximate
desired height. In addition, the top portion 36 may also comprise
additional height adjusting rings 40 and a manhole cover mounting
frame 42 to more closely adjust the height required to reach the
surface 31 (shown best on FIG. 6). Preferably, the lower portion 34
comprises one or more depressions identified as trench 44.
Preferably, trench 44 is in line with the inflow pipe 50 or outflow
pipe 52 (no particular order is intended, as either pipe may be
inflow or outflow; such inflow pipe 50 or such outflow pipe 52 may
comprise more than one pipe) and allows access to the pipe interior
46 for maintenance purposes. Preferably, the manhole structure 30
also comprises a plurality of ladder rungs 48 for entry into the
manhole structure 30. The manhole opening 54 is a standard size,
preferably round in shape, as shown. Such manhole openings 54 are
typically twenty-four inches in diameter, or thirty inches in
diameter. Preferably, a cover 56 of the appropriate size sets in the
manhole cover mounting frame 42 and covers the manhole opening 54.
Preferably, debris-catcher 32 comprises two apertures 58 and 60
(embodying herein wherein such blocker means comprises attachment
means for attaching at least one lifting device to such blocker
means; and embodying herein wherein such attachment means comprises
at least one aperture; and also embodying herein wherein such
blocker comprises at least one attachment structured and arranged to
permit removable attaching of at least one lifting device to such
blocker; and further embodying herein wherein such attachment
comprises at least one aperture), which align when the
debris-catcher 32 is folded, as shown (the above arrangement
embodying herein wherein each such half-portion comprises an
aperture, each such aperture being structured and arranged to align
with each other such aperture when such blocker is placed in such
substantially folded position). Preferably, an attacher, such as a
hook 64, is attached through the aligned apertures 58 and 60.
Preferably, in combination with a lowering mechanism, such as a rope
66 (this arrangement embodying herein at least one lifting device),
the debris-catcher 32 may be lowered or raised through the manhole
opening 54 (this arrangement embodying herein whereby such apertures
may be used as attachments in lifting and lowering such blocker when
such blocker is in such substantially folded position), while in a
substantially folded position 55, to the flat base 62 portion of the
lower portion 34. Upon reading the teachings of this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art, will now appreciate that,
under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as manhole
depth, etc., other methods of lowering the debris-catcher 32, such
as, for example, using cables, poles, etc., may suffice. The
debris-catcher 32 may be carried down the ladder rungs 48; however,
due to the weight and size of the debris-catcher 32, such a method
may be undesirable and is not preferred.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view, partially in section, of a typical
manhole structure 30 and an installed debris-catcher 32, according
to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, the
debris-catcher 32 is opened up and placed in a substantially open
position 68 on the flat base 62 portion of the lower portion 34 of
the manhole structure 30, as shown in FIG. 2. Preferably, the
debris-catcher 32 rests directly on the flat base 62 and
substantially covers trench 44 (the above described arrangement
embodying herein wherein such blocker means, when not folded and
when supported by the flat bottom portions, is capable of
substantially covering the pipe trench). Typically, the flat base 62
is round, and either forty-eight inches in diameter, or sixty inches
in diameter. Preferably, the debris-catcher 32 is also round
(embodying herein wherein such blocker is substantially round), and
at least forty-four inches in diameter for a forty-eight inch flat
base 62, and at least fifty-six inches in diameter for a sixty inch
flat base 62 (this arrangement embodying herein wherein such
substantially round blocker has a diameter selected from the group
consisting of: diameters of about forty-four inches to about
forty-eight inches; diameters of about fifty-four inches to about
sixty inches). Upon reading the teachings of this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art, will now appreciate that,
under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as manhole
dimensions, economics considerations, etc., other dimensions of the
debris-catcher 32, such as, for example, forty-seven inches etc.,
may suffice. Preferably, the debris-catcher 32 is slightly less than
the full diameter of the flat base, as such manhole structures 30
are not usually a perfect diameter and may have a ladder rung 48
that will interfere with opening a folded debris-catcher 32 that is
too large a diameter.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a debris-catcher 32 in the open
position 68, according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a debris-catcher 32 in a
partially folded position 70, according to a preferred embodiment of
the present invention. Preferably, the debris-catcher 32 comprises
two halves 72 and 74 (embodying herein two half-portions).
Preferably, each half 72 and 74 is substantially a semi-circle, as
shown. Preferably, each half 72 and 74 is connected to the other by
hinges 76 (embodying herein at least one hinge connection connecting
such two half-portions; and also embodying herein wherein such fold
means comprises at least one hinge; and, embodying herein wherein
such blocker comprises at least one hinge connection having at least
one hinge axis through a center of such blocker). Preferably, hinges
76 comprise three strap hinges, as shown. Preferably, the hinges 76
are type 304 stainless steel (the above arrangement embodying herein
wherein such at least one hinge connection comprises three
corrosion-resistant strap hinges; and, embodying herein three
stainless steel strap hinges). Each hinge is preferably six-knuckle
construction with one-half inch ends, three-quarter inch centers
being pin spun on both ends. Preferably, the hinges 76 are about
four inches wide and sixteen inches long (each half-hinge being
eight inches long). Preferably, the hinges 76 are 0.0800-0.125
inches thick. Upon reading the teachings of this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art, will now appreciate that,
under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as strength
requirements, weight load, economic considerations, etc., other
connection arrangements and material specifications, such as, for
example, welded plates, living hinges, etc., may suffice.
Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those
with ordinary skill in the art, will now appreciate that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as storing the
debris-catcher, shipping considerations, etc., other construction
portions, such as, for example, four piece construction, etc., may
suffice.
Preferably, the hinges 76 are attached to the debris-catcher 32 such
that when the debris-catcher 32 is in the open position 68, the
debris-catcher 32 lays in about a flat plane, as shown. Preferably,
the hinges 76 are attached to the debris-catcher 32 such that when
the debris-catcher 32 is in the folded position 55, the two halves
72 and 74 may be folded in a semi-circle (see FIG. 13 and FIG. 14)
configuration allowing entry into the manhole opening 54, as
illustrated in FIG. 1, (the above arrangement embodying herein
wherein such blocker may be placed in a substantially folded
position and in an open substantially-flat position; and, embodying
herein fold means for folding such blocker means so as to permit
entry of such blocker means, when folded, into the manhole catch
basin through the round top; and, also embodying herein at least one
hinge structured and arranged to permit folding of such blocker so
as to permit entry of such blocker, when folded, through the round
top).
FIG. 5 is a perspective view, partially in section, of the lower
section 34 of a typical manhole structure 30 illustrating the
debris-catcher 32 blocking debris 78, according to a preferred
embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, the debris-catcher
32, in the open position 68, rests on the flat base 62, as shown,
such that the debris-catcher 32 covers the trench 44 (this
arrangement embodying herein wherein such substantially round
blocker, when in such open substantially-flat position, is
structured and arranged to be able to substantially cover the pipe
trench portions). Upon reading the teachings of this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art, will now appreciate that,
under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as trench
width, etc., other blocking arrangements, such as, for example,
utilizing more than one debris-catcher, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, as debris falls into the manhole structure 30, it lands
on the debris-catcher 32. Preferably, the debris-catcher 32
maintains its integrity and holds the debris 80 until such time as
the debris 80 is removed. The present method and composition
described herein provides for the debris-catcher 32 to hold well
over one hundred pounds of debris 80 (embodying herein wherein such
blocker is capable of supporting at least one hundred pounds of
debris; and embodying herein wherein such blocker means, when not
folded and when supported by the flat bottom portions, is capable of
supporting at least about one hundred pounds). Preferably, the
debris-catcher 32 will hold the weight of a normal-sized person in
addition to the weight of the debris 80 (embodying herein wherein
such blocker is capable of supporting at least one normal-sized
worker), as a person normally will descend the manhole structure 30
to remove the debris 80. This total weight may be as much as about
four hundred pounds using the described preferred embodiments.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art, will now appreciate that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as material
considerations, weight load requirements, economic considerations,
etc., other weight bearing materials, such as, for example, heavy
carbon-fiber, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 6 is a sectional view through section 6--6 of FIG. 2. In one
preferred embodiment, the debris-catcher 32 is preferably made from
a substantially rigid material (embodying herein a
substantially-rigid structural material). The preferred material is
High Density Polyethylene, referred to herein as HDPE (embodying
herein wherein such structural material comprises High Density
Polyethylene). HDPE has excellent chemical resistant properties,
weathering capabilities, and stress absorption properties, which
make it an excellent choice for use as a debris-catcher 32. Further,
HDPE floats. The preferred thickness is one-half inch HDPE sheeting.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art, will now appreciate that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economic
consideration, manufacturing, material availability, etc., other
materials for use as the debris-catcher, such as, for example, other
plastic compositions, etc., may suffice. Preferably, when the
debris-catcher 32 is made from HDPE and installed in the manhole
structure 30, the debris-catcher 32 allows the uninterrupted
function of the flow of effluent or matter through the manhole
structure 30. In addition, the debris-catcher 32 will float, as
indicated by line 90 in FIG. 6, should an overflow 88 occur (this is
what is meant by "floatable", including buoyancy and lifting by
overflow pressure) and will resume its position, as indicated by
line 92, on the flat base 62 when the overflow 88 has subsided (this
arrangement embodying herein wherein such blocker means and blocker
is floatable). Preferably, the hinge axis (joint 80) of the
debris-catcher 32 is located perpendicular to the trench 44.
However, in situations where more than one trench 44 is used, the
joint is preferably located such that it is not in-line with the
trench 44. Examples of other trench arrangements are illustrated in
FIG. 7, FIG. 8 and FIG. 9.
Reference is now made to the following Figures with continued
reference to the above-described Figures. FIG. 7 is a top view,
partially in section, illustrating the preferred joint 80 placement
of the debris-catcher 32 in a single pipeline manhole 82
installation application, according to a preferred embodiment of the
present invention. FIG. 8 is a top view, partially in section,
illustrating the preferred joint 80 placement of the debris-catcher
32 in a three-way Y-pipeline manhole 84 installation application,
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9
is a top view, partially in section, illustrating the preferred
joint 80 placement of the debris-catcher 32 in a two-way Y-pipeline
86 manhole installation application, according to a preferred
embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a top view of a
debris-catcher 32, according to a preferred embodiment of the
present invention.
Preferably, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the hinges 76 comprise three
hinges 94, 96 and 98. Preferably, hinge 94 is attached to the
debris-catcher 32 such that it is located transverse to the joint
80, approximately midway between the two ends 100 and 102, as shown.
Preferably, hinge 96 is located transverse to joint 80,
approximately midway between hinge 94 and the end 102, as shown.
Preferably, hinge 98 is located transverse to joint 80 approximately
midway between hinge 94 and the end 100, as shown. Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art, will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering issues such as weight and strength considerations,
economics, etc., other methods of aligning the hinges, such as, for
example, offset alignment, etc., may suffice
FIG. 11 is a sectional view through section 11--11 of FIG. 10. FIG.
12 is a side view of the debris-catcher 32, according to a preferred
embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, as illustrated in
FIG. 11 and more specifically shown in FIG. 18, the hinges 76 are
attached to each half 72 and 74 using a bolt 104, washer 106, and
nut 108 arrangements. Preferably, each hinge 76 is attached using a
plurality of corrosion-resistant bolts 104, washers 106, and nuts
108 (embodying herein a plurality of stainless steel bolts,
corrosion resistant washers, and stainless steel nuts; and also
embodying herein wherein such plurality of stainless steel bolts,
corrosion resistant washers and stainless steel nuts connects such
three stainless steel strap hinges with such blocker). In the
illustrated embodiment of FIG. 18, twelve such bolt 104, washer 106
and nut 108 arrangements are preferably utilized. Preferably, bolt
104 is placed through the top 110 of hinges 76 through pre-drilled
holes 112 (see FIG. 18), passing through matching aligned
pre-drilled holes 114 in the debris-catcher 32, as shown.
Preferably, washer 106 is placed onto bolt 104, followed by nut 108,
which is then preferably threaded onto bolt 104, in well-known ways,
such that the nut 108 is tight against the washer 106 and
debris-catcher 32. In addition, the bolt 104 is preferably about
flush with the bottom 105 of the nut 108 when the nut 108 has been
fully tightened. Preferably, in the above-described manner, the
hinges 76 are firmly attached to the debris-catcher 32. Upon reading
the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in
the art, will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering issues such as economics, size and dimension of the
debris-catcher, etc., other methods of hinge 76 attachment, such as,
for example, rivets, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, bolts 104 are military standard MS35307 hexagon head,
steel, and corrosion resisting bolts. In the preferred embodiment
using one-half inch HDPE and 0.0800-0.125 inch thick hinges, a
one-inch long bolt 104 is preferred. Preferably, bolt 104 has a
diameter of three-eighths of an inch. Under appropriate
circumstances, other arrangements may suffice. Preferably, washers
106 are military standard MS15795 flat-metal round washers sized to
fit bolts 104. Preferably, nuts 108 are military standard MS51971
steel, hexagon, corrosion-resisting bolts sized to fit bolts 104.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art, will now appreciate that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economic
consideration, durability, etc., other types and sizes of bolts 104,
such as, for example, airplane bolts, etc., may suffice.
FIGS. 15 through 18 illustrate a preferred method of making the
debris-catcher 32. FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic top view of the first
step in a method of making a debris-catcher 32, according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a
diagrammatic top view of another step in a method of making a
debris-catcher 32, according to a preferred embodiment of the
present invention. FIG. 17 is a diagrammatic top view of yet another
step in a method of making a debris-catcher 32, according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a
perspective view, partially in section, of a further step in a
method of making a debris-catcher 32, according to a preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
Preferably, the debris-catcher 32 is made from one-half inch thick
HDPE sheeting. Such sheeting is typically supplied in forty-eight
inch and sixty-inch square sheets (this arrangement embodying herein
the step of providing a structural material having an area capable
of being cut to a diameter of the required end size). Preferably, as
stated above, the debris-catcher 32 is round and at least forty-four
inches in diameter for a forty-eight inch flat base 62, and at least
fifty-six inches in diameter for a sixty-inch flat base 62.
Preferably, a debris-catcher for a forty-eight inch flat base 62 is
cut from a forty-eight inch HDPE sheeting. Preferably, a
debris-catcher for a sixty-inch flat base 62 is cut from a sixty
inch HDPE sheeting.
In the first preferred step of making a debris-catcher 32, the
selected HDPE sheeting 116 is cut in halves 120 and 121, as
illustrated in FIG. 15 (this arrangement embodying herein the step
of cutting such structural material into two equal halves). The
sheeting is very heavy, and cutting it in half allows for a more
easily workable size. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues
such as manufacturing, economics, durability, etc., other methods of
making the debris-catcher, such as, for example, molding, etc., may
suffice.
Preferably, a semi-circle 118 having a radius of one-half of the
selected final diameter is then cut from the halves 120 and 121, as
shown in FIG. 16 (this arrangement embodying herein the step of
cutting each such half in a semi-circle shape having a radius half
that of such desired end diameter of such debris-catcher so that
each such respective half is substantially equal to each other such
half). Several methods and tools may be used by those knowledgeable
in such art, however, it is preferred to use a Rebel.RTM.
Roto-zip.RTM. tool with a Saber-Cut Zip-bit cutting bit (available
from Roto-zip Tool Company).
Preferably, after the semi-circle 118 is cut, the pre-drilled holes
112 and apertures 58 and 60 are drilled, as illustrated in FIG. 17,
using a standard drill press. Preferably, the two apertures 58 and
60 will align with each other when respective halves 120 and 121 are
aligned, as when they are in a folded position as described-above
with reference to FIG. 14 and FIG. 1 (embodying herein wherein each
such lifting aperture is structured and arranged to align with each
other respective such lifting aperture when each respective such
half is aligned). Preferably, the aligned two apertures 58 and 60
are to be used for raising and lowering the debris-catcher 32 (this
arrangement embodying herein whereby each respective aligned lifting
aperture can be used together to lift such halves when aligned).
Preferably, the pre-drilled holes 114 are drilled next, arranged to
align with the hinge pre-drilled holes 112 such that the hinges may
be installed connecting each respective halves 120 and 121 (this
arrangement embodying herein the step of drilling a plurality of
hinge-installation apertures in each such half in such manner as to
enable insertion of a corrosion-resistant bolt through each
respective such hinge-installation aperture). Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art, will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering issues such as manufacturing, economics, etc., other
methods of manufacturing, such as, for example, pre-formed molding
of apertures, etc., may suffice. Similar procedures of drilling are
generally well-known by those knowledgeable in the art.
Preferably, in the final step of making a debris-catcher 32, the
hinges 76 are attached using the bolt 104, washer 106, and nut 108
arrangement, and the two halves 120 and 121 are joined such that the
debris-catcher may be placed in a substantially folded position 55
or open position 68 (the above arrangement embodying herein the step
of attaching at least one hinge to each such half using such
corrosion-resistant bolts, at least one washer, and at least one
corrosion-resistant nut, along a hinge axis corresponding to a flat
edge of each such half so that such halves can be folded together in
a folded position for entry through the top and opened to a
substantially-flat position to provided a round such debris catcher
having such desired diameter of such required end size). Upon
reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary
skill in the art, will now appreciate that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering issues such as economics, manufacturing
techniques, etc., other methods of design and manufacturing of the
debris-catcher may suffice.
A preferred method of using a debris-catcher for impeding debris
from entering pipe trench portions of a manhole catch basin will now
be described. The manhole catch basin as described herein, will
normally have a round top, with a first diameter, flat bottom
portions extending over a first area having a second diameter larger
than the first diameter, and pipe trench portions below the flat
bottom portions. Also, as described herein, the preferred debris
catcher comprises a substantially round blocker comprising a
substantially-rigid structural material, two half-portions, at least
one hinge connection having a hinge axis and connecting the two
half-portions. As described, the blocker may be placed in a
substantially folded position or in an open substantially-flat
position; and each such half-portion comprises an aperture, each
such aperture being structured and arranged to align with each other
such aperture when such blocker is placed in such substantially
folded position.
Preferably, to use this described debris-catcher, the following
steps are preferred. First, there is selected a debris-catcher
having such desired diameter of such required end size structured
and arranged to substantially cover the pipe trench portions (see
FIG. 2) below the flat bottom portions when opened to a
substantially-flat position. Next, the user preferably folds the
debris-catcher in a folded position (see FIG. 1) along a hinge axis
corresponding to a flat edge of each such half so that such halves
can be folded together in a folded position for entry through the
round top of the manhole (see FIG. 1). Next, the user preferably
attaches a lifting device (see FIG. 1) through each aligned aperture
and lifting and lowering the debris-catcher through the top of the
manhole and down through the manhole catch basin to the flat bottom
portions. Next, the user preferably un-attaches the lifting device
from the debris-catcher. Next, the user preferably unfolds the
debris-catcher such that the debris-catcher is opened to a
substantially-flat position with the hinges facing upward toward the
top of the manhole (see FIG. 2). And next, the user preferably
aligns the hinge axis such that most of the hinge axis is supported
by the flat bottom portions (see FIGS. 2, 7, 8 and 9). Upon reading
the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in
the art, will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering issues such as desired function, economic
considerations, user preferences, etc., other methods of use, such
as, for example, protecting irrigation cisterns, etc., may suffice.
Another preferred embodiment of a method of using a debris-catcher
for impeding debris from entering pipe trench portions of a manhole
catch basin will now be described. The manhole catch basin, as
described above, will normally have a round top with a first
diameter, flat bottom portions extending over a first area having a
second diameter larger than the first diameter, and pipe trench
portions below the flat bottom portions wherein the debris catcher
comprises a substantially round blocker comprising a
substantially-rigid structural material, two half-portions, at least
one hinge connection having a hinge axis and connecting the two
half-portions. Preferably, the blocker may be placed in a
substantially folded position or in an open substantially-flat
position. Preferably, each such half-portion comprises at least one
flexible tensioner, perpendicular to such hinge axis, to support
such at least one substantially round blocker while being grabbed by
at least one blocker rigid lifting device. First, a user will select
a debris-catcher having a desired diameter of required end size to
substantially cover the pipe trench portions below the flat bottom
portions when opened to a substantially-flat position. Next the user
will grab the at least one flexible tensioner with at least one
blocker rigid lifting device and lift and lower the now folded
debris-catcher through the top of the manhole and down through such
manhole catch basin to the flat bottom portion. Then the user will
un-attach the blocker rigid lifting device from the debris-catcher
and unfold the debris-catcher so that such debris-catcher is opened
with the hinges facing upward toward such top of the manhole.
Preferably, the user aligns the hinge axis so that most of the hinge
axis is supported by the flat bottom portions. Then, the user places
the rigid lifting device against the hinge and presses the debris
catcher into a substantially-flat position. (This arrangement
embodies herein a method of using a debris-catcher for impeding
debris from entering pipe trench portions of a manhole catch basin
having a round top with a first diameter, flat bottom portions
extending over a first area having a second diameter larger than the
first diameter, and pipe trench portions below the flat bottom
portions wherein the debris catcher comprises a substantially round
blocker comprising a substantially-rigid structural material, two
half-portions, at least one hinge connection having a hinge axis and
connecting the two half-portions, and wherein the blocker may be
placed in a substantially folded position or in an open
substantially-flat position, and wherein each such half-portion
comprises at least one flexible tensioner, perpendicular to such
hinge axis, being structured and arranged to support such at least
one substantially round blocker while being grabbed by at least one
blocker rigid lifting device, comprising the steps of: selecting a
debris-catcher having such desired diameter of such required end
size structured and arranged to substantially cover such pipe trench
portions below such flat bottom portions when opened to a
substantially-flat position; grabbing such at least one flexible
tensioner with such at least one blocker rigid lifting device and
lifting and lowering such folded debris-catcher through such top of
such manhole and down through such manhole catch basin to such flat
bottom portions; un-attaching such at least one blocker rigid
lifting device from such debris-catcher; unfolding such
debris-catcher such that such debris-catcher is opened to with such
hinges facing upward toward such top of such manhole; aligning such
hinge axis so that most of such hinge axis is supported by such flat
bottom portions; and placing such rigid lifting device against at
least one hinge and pressing such debris catcher into a
substantially-flat position.)
Reference is now made to the following drawings with continued
reference to the above drawings. FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a
lifting and setting assembly 200 of the debris-catching system 28
according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 20 is a section view through section 20--20 of FIG. 19. FIG. 21
is a section view through section 21--21 of FIG. 19.
In an alternate preferred embodiment, FIG. 19 through FIG. 24
illustrate the above-described debris-catcher 32 with a lifting and
setting assembly 200 comprising a lifting device 202 and setting
device 204, as shown. Preferably, the lifting device 202 (embodying
herein support means for supporting such substantially-rigid blocker
means and cooperating with at least one blocker lifting device; and
embodying herein at least one support structured and arranged to
support such at least one substantially-rigid blocker and cooperate
with at least one blocker lifting device) comprises an eye-end 206
bolted through each respective aperture 58 and 60, as shown
(embodying herein connector means for connecting such
substantially-rigid blocker means with such at least one support;
and embodying herein at least one connector structured and arranged
to connect such at least one substantially-rigid blocker with such
at least one support; and embodying herein wherein such at least one
connector further comprises at least two eye-end bolts having such
steel cable attached between each respective of such at least two
eye-ends). Preferably, a wire 208, preferably steel cable (embodying
herein wherein such at least one flexible tensioner comprises a
steel cable), is attached between the two eye-ends 206, as shown
(embodying herein wherein such at least one support comprises at
least one flexible tensioner perpendicular to, adjacent to, and
above such hinge axis). Preferably, the wire 208 fully supports the
weight of the debris-catcher 200 (embodying herein wherein such at
least one flexible tensioner is structured and arranged to support
such at least one substantially-rigid blocker while being grabbed by
the at least one blocker lifting device). Upon reading the teachings
of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will
now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering
issues such as desired strength of the wire 208, economic
considerations, hardware availability, etc., other methods of
attaching wire 208, such as, for example, quick-connect hardware,
etc., may suffice.
FIG. 22 is a section view through section 22--22 of FIG. 19.
Preferably, the setting device 204 comprises a semi-rigid wire 210
connected between two bolts 104, as shown. Preferably, the
semi-rigid wire 210 is just long enough to permit the hook
hooked-end 232 beneath the wire 210, as shown in FIG. 24 below. This
arrangement embodies herein at least one strap connector, placed
across such hinge axis, structured and arranged to be grabbed by
such at least one hook. Most preferably, the semi-rigid wire 210 is
connected between two adjacent bolts 216 and 218, preferably one
bolt 216 on side 220 and one bolt 218 on side 222 of the hinge 212,
preferably at an angle of about forty-five degrees from each other
respective bolt 216 and 218, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of
this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art, will now
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues
such as desired strength of the wire 210, economic considerations,
hardware availability, etc., other methods of attaching wire 210,
such as, for example, spot welding the wire 210 to the bolts etc.,
may suffice.
FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the lifting device 202 of FIG. 19
in use. Preferably, in operation, a pole 230 having a hooked end 232
(embodying herein wherein such at least one lifting device
comprises: at least one pole, having at least one hook, structured
and arranged to removably grab the at least one flexible tensioner;
and embodying herein at least one blocker lifting device structured
and arranged to grab the at least one flexible tensioner),
preferably a telescopic pole, most preferably a Hastings
Tel-o-pole.RTM. Hot stick (available from www.hfgp.com) is used to
lift and lower the debris-catcher 32 into and out of a manhole
structure 30. In a preferred embodiment, the hook 234 is placed
under the wire 208, as shown. Preferably, pulling up on the wire 208
folds the debris-catcher in a folded position for entry through the
round top of the manhole (see FIG. 1). This arrangement embodies
herein wherein such at least one substantially-rigid blocker
comprises at least one hinge connection having at least one hinge
axis through a center of such at least one blocker to permit folding
of such at least one substantially-rigid blocker along such at least
one hinge axis. Next, the user preferably lowers the debris-catcher
32 through the top 236 of the manhole structure 30 and down through
the manhole catch basin 238 to the flat bottom portions 240, as
shown. Next, the user preferably un-attaches the lifting device 202
from the debris-catcher 200 by unhooking the hook 234 from the wire
208 allowing the debris-catcher 200 to unfold such that the
debris-catcher is opened to a substantially-flat position 242
(embodying herein wherein such at least one connector and such at
least one support are structured and arranged to open such at least
one hinge upon lowering onto the manhole catch basin by the at least
one blocker lifting device to properly place such at least one
substantially-rigid blocker) with the hinges facing upward toward
the top 236 of the manhole structure 30, as shown (see FIG. 2 and
FIG. 25). Next, the user preferably aligns the hinge axis 250 such
that most of the hinge axis 250 is supported by the flat bottom
portions 240. Preferably, when the debris-catcher 200 is ready to be
removed from the manhole structure 30, the lifting device 202 is
used to lift the debris-catcher 200. Preferably, the hook 234 is
placed under the wire 208 and the debris-catcher 200 is lifted.
Preferably, the debris-catcher folds along the hinge axis 250 as the
lifting device lifts the debris-catcher 200, as shown. This
arrangement embodies herein wherein such at least one connector and
such at least one support are structured and arranged to close such
at least one hinge upon raising from the manhole catch basin by the
at least one blocker lifting device of such at least one
substantially-rigid blocker.
FIG. 24 is another perspective view of the setting device 204 of
FIG. 19 in use. FIG. 25 is a perspective view, partially in section,
of the lifting device 202 and setting device 204 of FIG. 19 in use
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. In
order to firmly place the debris-catcher 32 in a substantially-flat
position 242, it has been determined by applicant that, under
appropriate circumstances, the setting device 204 is very useful in
positioning the debris-catcher 32 with a pole 230. In operation, the
hook 234 is placed under wire 210 and the pole 230 is pushed against
the hinge 76 to force the hinge 76 flat, as shown (embodying herein
wherein such at least one strap connector, when grabbed by such at
least one hook, assists a user to place such substantially-rigid
blocker in such open substantially-flat position). Depending on the
available space to maneuver the pole 230, the hook 234 is placed on
either the center hinge 246 or an end hinge 248, as shown. Upon
reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary
skill in the art, will now appreciate that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering issues such as user preference, right or
left-handed users, manhole depth, etc., other methods of lowering
the debris-catcher, such as, for example, use of a rope and hook,
manual placement, etc., may suffice.
Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments
of this invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of
this invention includes such modifications as diverse shapes and
sizes and materials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims
as read in connection with the above specification.
Further, many other advantages of applicant's invention will be
apparent to those skilled in the art from the above descriptions and
the below claims.
* * * * *
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