High strength cover for underground utility box

• Main Author: SAMOLIS; ALFONSO A
• Format: Patent
• Language: English
• Published: 12.05.1981
• Subjects: EMBANKMENTS; EXCAVATIONS; FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS; FOUNDATIONS; HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; SOIL SHIFTING; UNDERGROUND OR UNDERWATER STRUCTURES

A high strength cover for an underground utility box of the type that is normally installed on streets and driveways and is subjected to substantial vehicle loads. The cover structure includes a fixed rectangular frame the upper edge of which is installed substantially flush with the ground level. Below the ground level the frame defines bearing surfaces throughout the periphery of the frame, the inner edge of the bearing members defining the access opening. Two structural frameworks, dimensioned to be, in combination, substantially coextensive with the access opening are provided to span the bearing surfaces. The frameworks have sufficient vertical dimensions to afford the necessary strength. The frameworks are hinged for pivotal movement about axes along two opposite ends of the frame so that they can be moved to an upright position to afford access to the box. Hingedly mounted on a side edge which extends between the end edges of the frame are two cover plates which in combined outlinear form cover the access opening. The cover plates are impervious so as to close the access opening and when closed are supported by the subjacent frameworks. The cover plates are also provided with brackets which engage the frameworks in the upstanding position so as to form a barrier around three sides of the opening when access to the box is desired.