Recycled Rubber Manhole Cover

Traditional manhole covers lose their anti-slip properties over time due to wear and tear, making them even more hazardous in rainy weather or around bends. Replacing the cover is costly and difficult, while a new layer of anti-slip coating typically wears off within a year, making it an unsustainable solution. To solve this problem, recycled rubber mats, which are naturally anti-slip and wear-resistant, are used to improve the grip on worn-out manhole covers. Drainage grooves and a gentle 2-degree slope are also added to the mats to prevent water accumulation and allow water to drain off on rainy days. Another issue is that manhole covers often sit lower than the road surface in Taiwan due to inconsistent road quality or ground subsidence. A spacer can be placed under the rubber mat to raise the cover to the level of the road, minimising unevenness for riders. This manhole cover solution not only addresses practical concerns but also encourages sustainability by using recycled rubber and repurposed metal bases for new covers. By employing these designs, we can improve road safety and lower maintenance costs while being environmentally conscious. Red Dot Award: Design Concept | Red Dot: Next Gen Award | Concept | Sustainability