House Plumbing Patents (Class 4/211)
  • Patent number: 11021858
    Abstract: An impact reducer for drainage stacks includes a first pipe section with a first internal passage having at least five alternating bends along its longitudinal axis, a bypass vent in a second pipe section having a second internal passage parallel to the longitudinal axis and a clean out plug in a third pipe section having a third internal passage at a radial angle with the longitudinal axis. First and second end fittings are located on the impact reducer for connecting the device to a drainage pipe. The impact reducer adjusts the turbulent flow of water falling in the drainage stack, converting the turbulent flow to laminar flow before the lower bend fitting of the drainage stack, which protects the lower bend fitting from impact shock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Assignee: Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University
    Inventor: Rehan Jamil
  • Patent number: 9290920
    Abstract: A toilet vent comprising a first fluid connection and a second fluid connection. Said first fluid connection is between an upper portion of a tank of a toilet above a sanitary fluid level and a gas outlet outside of said tank. Said second fluid connection is between a supply line outside of said tank and one or more tank components inside of said tank. Said toilet vent is capable of housing said first fluid connection and said second fluid connection. A portion of said toilet vent, containing a portion of both said first fluid connection and said second fluid connection, passes through a fluid input in a bottom of said tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Throne Cyclone, LLC
    Inventor: Randy White
  • Patent number: 8984673
    Abstract: Equalizing valve (1) comprising a duct (6) having an inlet section (7) and an outlet section (8), a seat (10) and a valve element (12) able to move between a closed position and an open position, characterized in that said duct is able to admit a flow in which, for any flow line (13) between said inlet section and said outlet section, the velocity vector (15) at a given point makes an angle with the velocity vector (14) in the inlet section which increases with the distance away from the inlet section, the angle between the velocity vector (16) in the outlet section and the velocity vector in the inlet section ranging between 80° and 150°, and in which the valve element, in the closed position, makes an angle of between 0° and 70° with the normal to the outlet section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Raccords et Plastiques Nicoll
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Serin, David Dupe, Nicolas Lecointe
  • Patent number: 8850628
    Abstract: A pressure release device for preventing pressure build-up in a sink, shower or tub drain includes an elongated tubular member having an elongated passageway extending therethrough. A partially closed top with a plurality of openings therein and an open bottom and means for disposing the device in a drain with an upper portion of the device extending upwardly by at least about 1 cm above an opening to the drain and a bottom of the device extends downwardly in the drain at least 1 and preferably about 2 cm below the opening of the drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventor: Hager H. S. A. Faredon
  • Patent number: 8640970
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods, devices and systems for improving air quality. In one exemplary embodiment, the invention provides an air quality control system for maintaining or improving air quality within a room. The air quality control system includes a fan in fluid communication with a room. The fan is configured to vent air from within the room to control air quality therein. The air quality control system further includes a fluid flow sensor located proximate to a conduit. The fluid flow sensor is in communication with a wireless transmitter configured to generate a signal based upon fluid flow through the conduit. The air quality control system also includes a receiver configured to receive the wireless signal generated by the wireless transmitter, wherein the receiver is in communication with the fan to cause activation of the fan based upon the signal generated by the wireless transmitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Direct Success, LLC
    Inventor: Bruce Dorendorf
  • Publication number: 20120204333
    Abstract: Equalizing valve (1) comprising a duct (6) having an inlet section (7) and an outlet section (8), a seat (10) and a valve element (12) able to move between a closed position and an open position, characterized in that said duct is able to admit a flow in which, for any flow line (13) between said inlet section and said outlet section, the velocity vector (15) at a given point makes an angle with the velocity vector (14) in the inlet section which increases with the distance away from the inlet section, the angle between the velocity vector (16) in the outlet section and the velocity vector in the inlet section ranging between 80° and 150°, and in which the valve element, in the closed position, makes an angle of between 0° and 70° with the normal to the outlet section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2010
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Serin, David Dupe, Nicolas Lecointe
  • Patent number: 8239973
    Abstract: The toilet ventilation apparatus effectively vents unwanted gasses from a toilet room without risk of return. The apparatus provides for installation to an existing toilet bowl with retention of the existing lid. The seat with bottom orifices is provided in a plurality of thicknesses, shapes, and sizes to correctly fit existing toilets. The discharge hose connects to the collar fitting of the drain collar, which is easily connected to a drain such as a sink drain so that in-floor and wall plumbing invasion is not required. The quick connect fitting is disposed between the escape tube exiting the rear of the seat and the suction hose. The quick connect provides that the vacuum pump and related hose are quickly selectively connected and disconnected to any seat of the apparatus installed on an existing toilet bowl, thereby allowing addition and removal of the pump and hoses at a few seconds notice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Davis Character
  • Patent number: 8151377
    Abstract: The technology described herein provides an odorless and overflow-less toilet system. The technology provides for the removal of odor at its source and aids in overflow protection. The technology provides a toilet system having a second chamber running in fluid communication with a first chamber and a second exit port to allow for the continuation of the second chamber flow to a trap assembly. The trap assembly is configured to separate exhaust odors and overflows. The trap assembly prevents sewage gasses from escaping back through the toilet. The trap assembly allows overflows to be routed back to a sewage out line. The trap assembly provides for the flow of odors from the toilet with an inline exhaust fan. The inline exhaust fan pulls odors from the toilet through the second chamber and exit port of the toilet through the trap assembly and then through the inline exhaust fan to exit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventor: Ronald Ferrell Pickle
  • Publication number: 20120023650
    Abstract: The present invention's toilet provides a toilet odor removal apparatus The toilet may additionally provide a dual flushing system and/or water overflow prevention system. The odor removal apparatus is operable to withdraw air fain a toilet bowl via a suction assembly comprised of a motorized fan to discharge air into a sewer discharge line through a ventilating passage. A valve assembly for controlling the configuration of the system includes a valve controlling means and a solenoid iron plunger. Three main configurations include water flow from the toilet tank to the bowl (flushing), no water flow to the bowl and air flow from the toilet bowl through the fan to the ventilating passage (odor removal), and finally no water flow or air flow (not is use).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2010
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventor: Ghasem Azodi
  • Patent number: 7896976
    Abstract: A ventilation device for the discharge pipe for removing a flow medium pumped to a household appliance. A pipe ventilation valve is connected to the discharge pipe by a channel and comprises a valve body disposed in a float chamber filled with a working medium which is separated from the flow medium and actuates the valve body. The valve body is actuated by transmitting a pneumatic force between the flowing medium and the working medium of the float chamber or between the flowing medium and a sealing surface adjacent to the valve body by means of a pressure medium which is separated from the flowing medium and is enclosed in the channel. The inventive pipe ventilation device makes it possible to avoid a direct contact between the valve body of the pipe ventilation valve and the flowing medium, thereby preventing the valve body from being soiled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Seimens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Gerhard Graf, Bernd Hesterberg
  • Patent number: 6886592
    Abstract: A sewer relief valve assembly comprises a cylindrical sleeve dimensioned for insertion into a clean out which has an interior surface formed as a conduit and exterior threads adapted for mated engagement with the interior threads of the clean out. A valve means is disposed in the cylindrical sleeve which is displaceable from a closed position to an open position by pressurized fluid in the clean out. At least one perforated compartment is disposed inside the cylindrical sleeve which contains a water-soluble disinfectant composition. The valve means is displaceable by fluid pressure to the open position permitting discharge of the effluent through the clean out and the simultaneous release of the water-soluble disinfectant composition from the perforated compartment into the effluent. A water-soluble dye composition can also be included in the perforated compartment so that sewage overflow from the clean out is readily visible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventor: James R. Hart, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6684415
    Abstract: There is provided a drain pipe ventilating apparatus that prevents water seal from being broken by supplying air to a drain pipe without using a ventilation pipe having a vent hole installed at a high position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Inventor: Yoshiya Kozono
  • Patent number: 6474365
    Abstract: A system for covering drain pipe outlets, particularly, as they exit a building. The system includes a band that is tightened around the exterior of a pipe as it protrudes through the side of a building. Attached to the band is a hinged cover which is sized to entirely cover the pipe and hidden hinge. The cover may be covered with material to match or complement the building exterior surfacing, such as paint or stucco. In addition, the band portion may also include one or more restictors, such as bars, to prevent unauthorized access or debris from entering the pipe. The system provides for multiple size covers and bands for a wide variety of pipe sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventors: Kenneth E. Brown, Cindy K. Brown
  • Patent number: 6431972
    Abstract: An apparatus for venting several plumbing pipes through existing roof openings made for existing ventilation systems, including turbine ventilators, roof ventilators, ridge ventilators and hip ventilators. The plumbing vent apparatus has two sides, a bottom and two removable end caps. End caps for use with a ridge ventilator or hip ventilator have slots for fitting around the ridge rafter. The apparatus is mounted in the roof opening made for the ventilation system, which is installed above it. When used with a ventilation system which has a ridge or hip rafter, the apparatus can be configured to have mounting flanges along the top of the sides for attachment to the roof decking, or can have mounting flanges along the slots on the end caps for attachment to the rafter. Each male adapter, which is inserted through an opening in the bottom of the apparatus, can hold the venting end of a PVC plumbing pipe. Removable covers are placed into unused openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Hy-Tech Inventions, Inc.
    Inventor: William D. Folsom
  • Patent number: 6092549
    Abstract: The drain system in a building is divided in at least two parts, namely a first part (2) arranged to receive drain water contaminated to a relatively high degree from one or a plurality of first units (3), and a second part (10) arranged to receive drain water normally contaminated to a lower degree from one or a plurality of second units (11, 12). The second drain system part (10) comprises at least one drain conduit (13) and at least one unit (11) connected thereto and so constructed that it lacks traps preventing a flow of air therethrough. An apparatus (16) is connected to the drain conduit (13), for generating such a negative pressure in the drain conduit giving rise to an evacuating flow of air from the room in question in the building through the at least one unit (11) and through the drain conduit (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Inventor: Bertil Eriksson
  • Patent number: 5645099
    Abstract: A sewer relief valve (40) made out of a durable plastic material comprises: a raised head or float housing (52) that serves as a gripping means during it's removal and installation; said housing (52) has male threads (53) which circumference the lower vertical exterior of said float housing (52); said housing (52) surrounding a central passageway (58) through which a hydrostatic pressure relieving float (54) may pass unobstructed; a cap (50) attached to an upper portion of float (54) effectively sealing said central passageway (58) and cosmetically dressing up said float housing (52) of said sewer relief valve (40) to give it the appearance of a conventional raised head plug (28).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Assignees: Dean L. Eaton, Michael Steele
    Inventors: Dean L. Eaton, Michael L. Steele
  • Patent number: 5415438
    Abstract: A drainage vertical tube joint comprising an inner tube (20) provided in hanging-down state at lower side of an upper vertical tube connection port (11), a reduction guide (21) provided in downward inclination on an inner circumferential wall of the inner tube (20) and having its projected end edge (21a) inclined downward in the length direction, a swivel guide (23) projected on an inner circumferential wall of a taper tube part (15) and having its projected end edge (23a) inclined downward in the length direction, wherein the projected end edge (21a) of the reduction guide and the projected end edge (23a) of the swivel guide are opposed and formed in parallel relation in projections of the horizontal plane and formed in intersection relation in projections of the vertical plane, and a ventilation core can be formed accurately in a flowing-down waste water flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Assignee: Noriatsu Kojima
    Inventors: Noriatsu Kojima, Toshihiko Kawamura
  • Patent number: 5209257
    Abstract: A vent for relieving pressure in a sewage collection system for buildings characterized by a buoyant float-closure which will easily open in response to fluid pressure to permit escape of gas or liquid from the system upon the build-up in the system of minimum pressure in excess of atmospheric pressure. The float closure is mounted in a threaded plug which is adapted to replace the conventional clean-out plug on the exterior of the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1993
    Inventor: Clarence E. Baker, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5048562
    Abstract: A one way air admittance valve (2) for admitting air into a pipe (3), which valve (2) comprises a body portion (4) for fitting to the pipe (3), at least one air inlet port (6) in the body portion (4), and rigid sealing means (16) which is longitudinally movable between a first position in which it seals the air inlet port (6) and a second position in which the air inlet port (6) is open for the admittance of air into the pipe (3), the valve (2) being such that there is only one sealing means (16) for all of the air inlet ports (6), and the sealing means (16) being such that it seals at two separate areas by engaging with a pair of lip seals (18,20) which are mounted on the body portion (4) and which are radially spaced apart by being positioned inwardly and outwardly of of the air inlet port (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1991
    Inventor: Patrick D. Frawley
  • Patent number: 5031659
    Abstract: A backwater escape valve comprises a threaded shank received in the threaded opening of a clean out. A pivotally mounted valve body provides a frustoconical valve element and is biased by a spring or by gravity into a closed position against a mirror image frustoconical valve seat. Means are provided to limit opening movement of the valve body in a range of 20.degree.-60.degree. away from the valve seat. The valve seat member is configured to be fully opening and of maximum internal diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1991
    Inventors: Henry G. Gonzales, Joe H. Gonzales
  • Patent number: 5029606
    Abstract: An in-the-wall base unit is provided for connection of building water supply and drain lines to it. A surface-mounted adaptor unit is fastened to the front of the base unit, extends outside the wall for connection of the supply and drain lines in the one instance to a washing machine, and in the other example, to a lavatory. A cover plate neatly frames the adaptor unit and covers the relatively small opening in the wall board through which it extends. A single lever valve assembly controls both the hot and cold water. Build-in drain and vent provisions are made.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1991
    Inventor: Paul W. Kuhlthau, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5010600
    Abstract: A system for exhausting noxious vapors from a bathroom and exhausting the same through a ceiling or wall mounted exhaust fan. The system can utilize an existing exhaust fan in the ceiling or wall of the bathroom as found in older buildings or an exhaust fan in a modified version for installation in a new structure. The system is operable to draw noxious vapors primarily from the toilet seat having an integral exhaust conduit connected to a duct coupled to the housing of the exhaust fan. Provision is made for an exhaust intake for drawing noxious vapors into the exhaust fan housing from a secondary source such as directly from the bathroom. The noxious fumes are vented from the exhaust fan housing to the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1991
    Inventor: Anthony Prisco
  • Patent number: 4998754
    Abstract: In a vent-free single-duct drainage piping system for vertical installation in multi-storied buildings with horizontally extending branches to receive drain from sources of different floors of the building installed, a joint for connecting vertical pipe sections of the drainage piping system is disclosed, which comprises an upper pipe portion having a spiral axis between opposite end portions thereof and adapted for connection to the upstream side of the vertical drainage system to receive drain therfrom. A lower pipe portion is comprised of a first vertical passage connected in direct fluid flow relationship with the upper pipe portion and a second vertical passage having at a side thereof side ports adapted for connection to horizontal drainage pipes laid at a particular floor of the building. The first vertical passage receives drain from the upper pipe portion and the second vertical passage receives drain from the horizontal pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1991
    Assignee: Benkan Corporation
    Inventors: Shigeyuki Matsumoto, Tomoyoshi Kawamura
  • Patent number: 4991623
    Abstract: An automatic air valve for a conduit, through which passes fluids and/or solids, which valve prevents the discharge of contaminated air therefrom into the environment and which further permits the introduction of fresh air from the environment into the conduit when a negative pressure develops therein. The valves may be disposed at either the terminus of or interposed within the conduit flow line of a duct system. The valves include an interior filter that restrains foreign objects, such as insects and snakes, in the duct systems from operatively interfering with the proper operation of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1991
    Inventor: Kurt S. B. Ericson
  • Patent number: 4974632
    Abstract: An automatic air valve for a conduit, through which passes fluids and/or solids, which valve utilizes a freely-movable valve member to prevent the discharge of contaminated air therefrom into the environment and to permit the introduction of fresh air from the environment into the conduit when a negative pressure develops therein. The air valves may be disposed at either the terminus of or interposed within the conduit flow line of a duct system. The air valves include an interior filter that restrains foreign objects, such as insects and snakes, in the duct system from operatively interfering with the freely-movable valve member. Means is also included for preventing the interior filter to move or to be moved into a position wherein the interior filter may operatively interfere with the freely-movable valve member. The interior filters are nonplanar in shape, so as to provide a total air passage area that is substantially the same as the air passage area that is present without the interior filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 4, 1990
    Inventor: Kurt S. B. Ericson
  • Patent number: 4962548
    Abstract: A plumbing arrangement is described for a toilet pan connected to a waste disposal pipe. The waste pipe has an extension extending a short height above the flood level of the water trap. The upper end of the extension is closed off by a two way differential valve opening to the atmosphere. A cover is provided to permit the air flow to and from the valve but still to prevent the ingress of leaves or dirt which could have a detrimental effect upon the working of the valve. A number of embodiments of valve means are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 16, 1990
    Assignee: G.I. Marketing CC
    Inventors: Ivor G. van Deventer, Gerrit R. C. di Somma
  • Patent number: 4933995
    Abstract: A flush-operated bathroom fan is provided which utilizes a float-operated actuator in the water closet tank of the toilet which actuates a switch, turning on the ceiling fan, when the water level in the water closet tank falls indicating that the toilet has been flushed, and when the float rises up again to the normal full-tank water level, the switch is thrown again and the fan is deactivated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 19, 1990
    Inventor: Carl E. Canon
  • Patent number: 4919164
    Abstract: A method of making a partition for a prefabricated framed wall to be mounted into a building structure under construction has several steps: cutting at least one hole through each of a plurality of frame studs, a top frame plate, and a bottom frame plate; aligning the plurality of frame studs; securing tops of the frame studs to the top frame plate; securing bottoms of the frame studs to the bottom frame plate; installing plumbing pipes between the frame studs; and inserting either a sanitary tee or a waste pipe connector or a heating/cooling duct through the holes in the bottom frame plate so that they depend therebelow. The sanitary tees connect below a bathroom floor to either a toilet fixture or a bathtub or a shower. The waste pipe connectors are connected below a floor to either a kitchen sink, a dishwasher, a laundry basin, or a clothes washer. The heating/cooling duct connects either below the bathroom floor or above the bathroom ceiling to either a heater or an air conditioner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 24, 1990
    Inventor: Alexander Barenburg
  • Patent number: 4917147
    Abstract: A backwater escape valve for plumbing systems comprising a cylindrical body adapted to be coupled to a drainpipe system at the opening normally occupied by a sealing plug, and having a vertically disposed outflow opening covered with a hinged, spring-loaded cover which is adapted to be forced open when the associated sewer becomes blocked and water rises in the associated vertical drainpipe to or near the lowest sink or bathtub coupled thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 17, 1990
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Jerkins
  • Patent number: 4867802
    Abstract: An air admittance valve for use in drainage systems comprising a housing with an opening therein through which air passes into the drainage system, and a pivoted closure member adapted to close the opening and openable on a pressure difference between the system and the exterior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1989
    Inventor: Raymond F. Earl
  • Patent number: 4860503
    Abstract: A waste water plumbing apparatus connecting waste water depositing receptacles between the different stories of a building. The waste water plumbing apparatus comprises principally a vent pipe and a waste pipe. Connected to the vent pipe is a waste depositing receptacle. A similar waste depositing recptacle being connected to the waste pipe. These waste depositing receptacles are located in different locations. The vent pipe and the waste pipe are located in extemely close proximity to one another and may actually be physically connected together entirely along their longitudinal length. Both the vent pipe and waste pipe are connected at their lowest level to a discharge sewer line. The highest level of the vent pipe is open and extends through the roof of the building structure within which it is mounted. The waste pipe is connected to the vent pipe in the area of the roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1989
    Inventor: Winston H. Palmer
  • Patent number: 4850059
    Abstract: A waste sewage system for a building constructed to prevent sewage from backing up within the building. A valve is connected to an end of a clean-out conduit line of a waste sewage system for normally closing the same and openable in response to sewage effluent backing up within the clean-out conduit line. The valve comprises a tubular body portion having one end connectable to the end of a clean-out conduit line, a cover pivotally mounted on the body portion and normally closing the other end of the body portion, and sealing means carried by the body portion and cooperating with the cover to minimize escapement of noxious sewer gases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1989
    Assignee: Jim Dickerson Plumbing, Inc.
    Inventor: James A. Dickerson
  • Patent number: 4839927
    Abstract: A drainage system installed in a building for conducting waste water from such sanitary fixtures as toilet bowls into the underground sewer, has a stack extending through the floor of each story of the building and branch pipes for conducting the waste water from the fixtures mounted on each floor into the stack through connectors. The stack and each connector have a double structure comprising inner and outer members. The inside of the inner member is used for the discharge of waste water, while the space formed between the inner and the outer member communicates with the inside of the inner member within each connector to permit the flow of air necessary for eliminating a pressure variation induced inside the inner members by the flow of waste water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 20, 1989
    Assignee: Nishihara Engineering Company, Ltd.
    Inventor: Takashi Watanabe
  • Patent number: 4811753
    Abstract: A drain vent apparatus for recreational vehicles may be coupled to the drain vent of a drain line of a vehicle and includes a coupling for a drain hose for the output of the drain vent. The drain vent has an outer housing and an inner pipe located in said outer housing and connected to the coupling for the drain vent for coupling to a drain line of a vehicle. The outer housing forms an annular passageway around the inner pipe for the passage of air and a check valve is located in the outer housing passageway to allow the passage of air in one direction while blocking the passage of water in the opposite direction so that the outside vent air may pass into the drain vent to vent the drain line. The outer housing has an opening to atmosphere covered by a cap. The check valve may be mounted adjacent to the opening in the passageway adjacent the cap so that removal of the cap allows access to the check valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 14, 1989
    Inventor: Paul P. Bethune
  • Patent number: 4581780
    Abstract: An outdoor toilet constructed of precast concrete having integral color incorporated therein with the external surfaces being simulative of wood or the like and provided with a vault with a vent stack extending upwardly along one wall of the toilet and communicating with the vault and with a vent cap on the roof of the toilet to provide an offset passageway for venting the vault by using the chimney effect of the vent stack and vent cap. The vent stack includes an access opening in the exterior wall thereof provided with a closure to enable pump out of the vault from a point externally of the toilet. The toilet includes a toilet riser, handrail, toilet tissue holder, window and louver vents and an access door associated with an entrance slab and screen panels along two edges of the entrance slab to prevent direct observation into the interior of the toilet when the door is open. The entrance slab is supported by cantilever arms integral with the vault at one end edge thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1985
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1986
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Hoskins, Gregory L. Hoskins
  • Patent number: 4551865
    Abstract: A ventilator for withdrawing foul air from a lavatory pan has, within a housing (16), a duct (11) for connection between the discharge pipe (31) of the lavatory flushing assembly and the flush pipe (33) of the lavatory pan. An extractor fan (41) is provided in the housing (16) for withdrawing air from the duct (11) by way of an air passage (28) therein and expelling it through an exhaust pipe (47) to atmosphere outside the lavatory. The air passage (28) may be opened or closed by a valve (27). The fan (41) may be switched on when the valve (27) is open. When the lavatory pan is flushed, water passing through the duct (11) moves a cup (25) connected to the valve (27) so as to close the valve (27) and switch off the fan (41).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1984
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1985
    Inventor: Dudley G. Waters
  • Patent number: 4494255
    Abstract: This invention includes in combination, a flush-type toilet and an odor-removing device comprising a toilet stool having front and rear portions with the front portion being the bowl and the rear portion including a water passage in communication with the bowl. The rear portion has a top side and lateral sides which define the aforesaid passage, the rear portion having a water inlet opening through the top side in communication with the water passage. An odor-removing device is attached to the rear portion for producing a flow of air in a direction from the bowl through the passage and out of one of said sides. A separate port is provided in one side of the device and is disposed in spaced relation from the water inlet opening whereby air can be drawn through the water passage in a direction opposite to the flow of water from the water inlet to the bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1983
    Date of Patent: January 22, 1985
    Inventor: Charles E. Drummond
  • Patent number: 4493117
    Abstract: A deodorizer for a toilet employing a compact motor housing for drawing odor laden gases from the interior of a toilet when in use and venting those gases. The motor housing is a compact device which includes a one-way valve and a motor-driven fan. In one embodiment the housing is located on the toilet and is readily removable. In another embodiment the housing is located away from the toilet and an air intake device is located on the bowl beneath the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1983
    Date of Patent: January 15, 1985
    Inventor: Aldo Sguazzin
  • Patent number: 4480656
    Abstract: This invention is directed to a plumbing fixture to lessen and to prevent the flow of a liquid, from a source of liquid, flowing to an apparatus such as a washing machine or a dishwasher. More, particularly, this plumbing fixture is directed to lessening the flow of a liquid from a laundry tub to a washing machine or a dishwasher by a syphoning effect. The liquid in the laundry tub is not allowed to flow to the washing machine or a dishwasher by a syphoning action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1979
    Date of Patent: November 6, 1984
    Inventor: Robert L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 4475571
    Abstract: An improved sewer relief valve which is vandal-proof and automatically opens responsive to a back flow of sewage and drain water within a plumbing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1983
    Date of Patent: October 9, 1984
    Inventors: James M. Houston, Jr., John W. Baker
  • Patent number: 4449741
    Abstract: A plumbing network section for multi-storied construction is disclosed which uses an integral waste stack segment and waste receiving manifold for receiving waste from plumbing fixtures, and with multiple vents in the waste receiving manifold arranged for connection to a vent manifold. The combination waste stack section and waste manifold, and also the vent manifold uses sleeve type construction for connection to pipes which simplifies assembly in the field and effects reduction in labor and parts costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Inventors: Robert L. Litvin, David W. Price
  • Patent number: 4372087
    Abstract: A modular building structure is disclosed herein and comprises a support structure (10) including a plurality of spaced vertical columns (11), horizontal beams (12) interconnected between columns to form a rigid support system, and at least one space module (22) structurally defining an enclosed volume of space and adapted to be removably supported from said support structure, in which there are provided utility conduits (45, 46, 47, 48, 49) integrated with at least some of said columns and connectable at their lower ends to utility inlets and outlets (40). The conduits are provided for connection into various units (34,35,36,37) and utilities with the space module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1980
    Date of Patent: February 8, 1983
    Inventor: Ernest J. Kump
  • Patent number: 4323270
    Abstract: This invention relates generally to fittings used in plumbing systems, and more particularly relates to a new and improved construction for a fitting device of the type for use intermediate of and connecting water closets, sinks, baths, basins or the like with the main waste or soil pipe and with the main vent pipe. In the invention, such fitting device may be employed advantageously in new construction or in the repair of existing plumbing systems such as in re-modeling or the like. The fitting is of a unitary, one-piece construction made from a plastic material having a hollow cylindrical body with an inlet end and an outlet end. Intermediate the inlet and outlet ends, there is an integral transversely extending hub section of a generally figure-eight construction defined by an oppositely disposed pair of superposed vent and/or waste openings adapted for use as a vent and/or waste for the plumbing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1980
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1982
    Inventor: James A. Brock
  • Patent number: 4261386
    Abstract: A sewer relief valve for placement in an existing sewer line connecting a residence or other facility generating sewage and the sewage collection system, the valve comprising connection means adapted to connect into a sewer line, an adapter means in turn operably attached to the connection means, and a cap means attached in air-tight and water-tight fashion to the adapter means, the adapter means also having O-ring sealing means whereby backing up sewage and water interiorly to the sewer pipe will forcibly eject the cap means and permit exterior ground flooding rather than flooding interiorly to the residence or other sewage generating facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1978
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1981
    Inventor: Jack W. Young
  • Patent number: 4246664
    Abstract: Plumbing systems for routing wastes from a plurality of plumbing fixtures to a sewer, and for venting gases from the plumbing fixtures to the atmosphere. Also, plumbing fittings for use in such plumbing systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1979
    Date of Patent: January 27, 1981
    Inventor: Roy L. Reynolds
  • Patent number: 4191407
    Abstract: A plumbing connector and a method for installing or replacing pipe which extends between a toilet and a ferrule utilize a pair of sleeves arranged coaxially so as to form an annular socket for receiving one end of the ferrule. The inner sleeve is adapted for permanent connection to the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1977
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1980
    Inventor: John Bretone, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4162546
    Abstract: A branch tail piece for connecting the waste water outlet of an automatic dishwasher or the like to a sink drain system. The tail piece includes an inclined branch member and a curved baffle positioned within the tail piece for preventing waste water from the dishwasher from entering the sink strainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1977
    Date of Patent: July 31, 1979
    Assignee: Carrcraft Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Shortell
  • Patent number: 4129906
    Abstract: A normally closed sewage venting system comprising at least one or more plumbing fixtures having associated traps and drain lines that empty into a main drain that is connected to a sewer main. The main drain is normally directly vented to atmosphere by a plumbing vent. In accordance with the present invention each plumbing vent is capped off with a breather valve. The breather valve is a slit diaphragm valve that readily permits air to enter the system, to prevent syphoning from the traps, and prevents the escape of gases from the system except under predetermined excessive pressure conditions. Therefore, the gases previously emitted to the atmosphere are now drawn, with the drainage, into the sewer main. The sewer main may be subjected to a slight negative pressure which draws the sewer gases off and into a gas separation and storage facility where the noxious gases can be neutralized and the burnable gases processed and stored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1973
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1978
    Inventor: Jack G. Ohringer
  • Patent number: 4121914
    Abstract: A drainage piping system for discharging soil water and waste water from various plumbing fixtures comprises a vertical main pipe and lateral branch pipes connected to the fixtures. To provide a single-pipe confluence system for installation in medium-sized or high buildings without employing a vent pipe to be arranged along the vertical main pipe, the main pipe incorporates at least one twisted pipe portion having an axis helically deviating from the axis of the main pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1977
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1978
    Assignee: Kubota, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomio Kigawa, Takeshi Ishihara
  • Patent number: RE32870
    Abstract: An improved sewer relief valve which is vandal-proof and automatically opens responsive to a back flow of sewage and drain water within a plumbing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1986
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1989
    Inventors: James M. Houston, Jr., John W. Baker