Open Channel Patents (Class 405/118)
  • Patent number: 11959240
    Abstract: A ditch liner includes: a first corrugation having first and second angled sections, and a central section; and a second corrugation having first and second angled sections, and a central section. The first angled sections are adjacent to each other, the second angled sections are adjacent to each other, the central sections are adjacent to each other, a width of the first angled section of the first corrugation is different than a width of the first angled section of the second corrugation at a first location, a width of the second angled section of the first corrugation is different than a width of the second angled section of the second corrugation at a second location, and a width of the central section of the first corrugation is equal to a width of the central section of the second corrugation at a third location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Assignee: AMERICAN LEAK DETECTION IRRIGATION, INC.
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Suazo
  • Patent number: 11384499
    Abstract: A drainage channel support assembly including a support member adapted to support drainage channel, a pair of pegs arranged to anchor the support member to the ground, and a pair of coupling elements mounted to respective of each of the pair of pegs. The coupling arrangements are configured where on anchoring of the support member to the ground via respective of the pair of pegs either: in a first install mode, the coupling arrangement contacts an upper surface of the support member with the associated peg penetrating the ground along substantially the full length of the peg; or, in a second install mode, the coupling arrangement couples to a fitting which contacts the upper surface of the support member, the coupling arrangement contacting a lower surface of the support member for suspension of the drainage channel above the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2022
    Assignee: RELN PTY LTD
    Inventors: Owen Edward Luke, Luke Nigel Nattrass
  • Patent number: 11131069
    Abstract: A trench drain section for connecting to a mating trench drain section and forming a trench drain system. The trench drain section includes a trough having sidewalls connected by a bottom wall and cooperating to define a channel. The trough further includes an open top, an open end and is connectable to another trench drain section. A pair of rails extend along the sidewalls and are secured by fasteners. Extending over the open top, a grate is supported on the rails. The drain section also includes an alignment bracket having first and second portions that are individually connectable with one of the fasteners. When one of first and second portions is connected with one of the fasteners, the other the portions of the alignment bracket extends from the trough through the open end thereof and is available for connecting to another trench drain section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2021
    Assignee: Jay R. Smith Mfg. Co., assumed name of Smith Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald Elwyn Priester
  • Patent number: 10920392
    Abstract: A system and method for protecting workers, vehicles, and well-heads by enclosing well-site cellars with a series of framed plates. Each plate is perforated and configured for lifting with holes for hoisting the plates. Each plate is lipped to be retained by longitudinal edges of the cellar. A plurality of plates supports a platform for supporting a pipe wrangler adjacent a cellar based wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Assignee: St. Peter Metal Works, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph Ware, Thomas St. Peter
  • Patent number: 10718314
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a modular transportation and storage system for a wind turbine rotor blade comprising a first and a second tip end receptacle (112, 160) for supporting the blade, a tip end frame (111) for receiving any of the first and second tip end receptacles, wherein the first tip end receptacle (112) is adapted for supporting the blade (10) in a substantially vertical position, and wherein the second tip end receptacle (160) is adapted for supporting the blade in a substantially horizontal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2020
    Assignee: LM WP PATENT HOLDING A/S
    Inventors: Jacobus Van Der Zee, Anne Rothe Hakansson
  • Patent number: 10156691
    Abstract: This document discloses novel conduits for telecommunications lines, such as optical fibers. In an aspect, a conduit might have a body defining one or more channels into which optical fibers can be inserted. In another aspect, the body might have a first face that is substantially planar and a second face opposing the first face. The second face might a low-rise arc profile and/or might be configured to be installed into a depression in a material. Also disclosed are methods and tools for installing, using, and/or removing such conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2018
    Assignee: CenturyLink Intellectual Property LLC
    Inventors: Michael L. Elford, Robert J. Morrill, Michael Paul Winterrowd, Thomas Charles Barnett, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8920071
    Abstract: A container adapted to be placed near a walkway or road and adapted to receive a solid ice prevention composition such as salt pellets. The container has an entrance opening and an exit opening. The entrance opening of the container may be connected to a downspout directly or via a connecting member to direct water from the downspout into the container. Water enters the container through the entrance opening and mixes with the ice prevention composition to create a solution having a reduced freezing point. The solution exits the container through the exit opening where it is able to flow in its liquid state even after the ambient air temperature falls below thirty-two degrees Fahrenheit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Hazard Mitigation, Inc.
    Inventors: Darin Luneckas, Steve Kunert, Blayne Medema
  • Patent number: 8920072
    Abstract: A drainage channel includes a first sidewall provided with a first rail member extending along a longitudinal axis of the drainage channel. A second sidewall extends along the longitudinal axis of the drainage channel with the first and second sidewalls at least partially defining an interior area of the drainage channel. A first locking insert is at least partially positioned within a first rail opening of the first rail member, with the first locking insert including a first insert opening. Further examples include methods of making a drainage channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: ACO Polymer Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Derek Humphries, James Allen McConnell
  • Patent number: 8894324
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a drainage system for draining surface liquids from a first surface adjacent to one side of a drainage channel and for providing a transition from the first surface on one side of the drainage channel to a synthetic turf surface or other thick surface material on the other side of the drainage channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: ABT, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher Charles Cucchiara
  • Publication number: 20140341654
    Abstract: Modules for use in an assembly for managing the flow of water beneath a ground surface and assemblies of such modules are disclosed. The modules include supports and a deck portion and the supports are spaced apart and form channels with a main section of the deck portion. The deck portion also includes at least one section extending from a main section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2014
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Inventors: Justin Ivan May, Tom Heraty, Philip J. Burkhart
  • Patent number: 8702346
    Abstract: A landscaping channel liner is provided that includes a longitudinally-extending trough having a longitudinally-extending floor located between opposed longitudinally-extending sidewalls extending therefrom. Attachment clips extend longitudinally on each of the sidewalls opposite the floor. Each attachment clip is configured to clasp onto an adjacent attachment clip to hold adjoining channel liners together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventors: Randy J. Meert, Loren R. Graber
  • Patent number: 8678710
    Abstract: A channel (1) is disclosed for use in the field of basic sanitary services, more specifically to a pre-moulded channel for rainwater draining systems, developed to satisfy the surface drainage needs of hydrographic basins and urban areas of growing density. The disclosed channel (1) does not require a stabilized ground, can operate at the surface of roads, allowing traffic to circulate and the road section used to be paved, can use modules of variable lengths, and can even serve, when already in use, as a street surface. The channel (1) comprises four basic pre-moulded modular elements made of reinforced concrete or pre-stressed concrete, i.e.: guide cradle (2), bottom (3), walls (4) and (5) and cover (6), of variable dimensions depending on the projected collecting system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventor: Maurcio Santiago Dos Santos
  • Patent number: 8505131
    Abstract: A trench drain system and method of installation thereof on a level floor surface. An elongate channel member is placed on the floor surface. A preformed elongate sloping member having a thick end tapering to a thin end in inserted into the channel with its thin end closest to the channel drain opening, thereby forming an inclined sloping surface. A grate extends over the channel inlet. The area adjacent the channel is filled to the height of the channel, whereby water thereon flows through the grate into the channel, along the inclined surface and out through the drain opening. The channel can be placed adjacent a vertical wall whereby wall tile may be installed over a channel top edge. The floor area adjacent the channel is filled with preformed sloping sheet members or with plastically formable material positioned at an incline using a floor height setting post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Perimedrain Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Mark E. Doolittle, Jeffrey Harmon
  • Patent number: 8486273
    Abstract: A device for removing silt from flowing water by temporarily slowing the water enough to permit silt to settle naturally to the bottom is disclosed. The water may be slowed by a combination of increased depth and obstructions in the form of rough rocks and chain link fencing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Inventor: John Berger
  • Patent number: 8475079
    Abstract: A drainage apparatus comprises a support device including a support segment defining a clamp path, a first clamp member and a second clamp member. At least the second clamp member is configured to be coupled to the support segment while being free to translate along the clamp path. The drainage apparatus further includes a wedge including a drive axis, a first edge and a second edge. The wedge is tapered along the drive axis between the first edge and the second edge, and the wedge is configured to be driven in a direction of the drive axis into a locked orientation of the support device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: ACO Polymer Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Derek Humphries, James Allen McConnell
  • Patent number: 8469631
    Abstract: The grilled cover piece for drainage channels has a substantially horizontal wall covering the channel and a longitudinal hollow ridge which extends upwards with its top wall having eyelets or holes. The cover piece is positioned flush with or just below the level of the surface from which the water to be drained must be removed, wherein the water flows down by means of gravity into the underlying channel which conveys the water away. The cover piece is provided transversely at one end with at least one female profile and at its other end with at least one male profile complementing the female profile, so that it is possible to connect and fix together several cover pieces arranged in succession so as to cover the channel along the entire length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: EUR.EX S.r.l.
    Inventor: Emiliano Santi
  • Patent number: 8439602
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed that includes a ditch liner formed with two opposing walls. A plurality of friction control corrugations is formed in both of the two opposing walls. The apparatus also includes one or more subsurface aprons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: FastDitch, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Suazo
  • Patent number: 8357295
    Abstract: An adjustable anchor rod arrangement for use with an underdrain system that includes the a pair of spaced apart legs and an elongated member adjustably attached to the legs, wherein the legs are adjustable along a longitudinal axis of the elongated member and the elongated member is adjustable along a longitudinal axis of the legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Xylem Water Solutions Zelienople LLC
    Inventor: John L. Geibel
  • Patent number: 8322944
    Abstract: A modular trench drain system with sloping overlay rails. A non-sloping section of trench drain is transformed into a sloping trench drain by installing sloping overlay rails. The overlay rails rest on the top of the upper edge of the sidewalls and may have a ledge which allows grating, which spans across the channel, to rest on top. The modular channel sections may be held together and in place by a channel bracket with holes for accepting support rods which further secure the channels in place before and after the concrete has been poured and cured around the channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Josam Company
    Inventors: Barry J. Hodgekins, Craig Swider, Jason Jacobs, Peter Lenk, Wolfgang Strandl, Brian Tubaugh
  • Patent number: 8240946
    Abstract: A water drainage system having an elongated housing constructed from a plurality of identical subhousings which are aligned end to end. The housing is constructed of a flexible material and includes an elongated longitudinally extending interior chamber and at least one inlet open to a top of the housing and the chamber. A drainage pipe is attached to the housing and has one end open to the chamber and its other end at a location which dissipates water collected within the housing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Sheldon Applefield
  • Publication number: 20120099927
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a channel (1) for use in the field of basic sanitary services, more specifically to a pre-moulded channel for rainwater draining systems, developed to satisfy the surface drainage needs of hydrographic basins and urban areas of growing density. The disclosed channel (1) does not require a stabilised ground, can operate at the surface of roads, allowing traffic to circulate and the road section used to be paved, can use modules of variable lengths, and can even serve, when already in use, as a street surface. The channel (1) comprises four basic pre-moulded modular elements made of reinforced concrete or pre-stressed concrete, i.e.: guide cradle (2), bottom (3), walls (4) and (5) and cover (6), of variable dimensions depending on the projected collecting system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventor: Maurcio Santiago Dos Santos
  • Patent number: 8096730
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for repairing failed metal pipe inverts includes an apparatus for distributing concrete that is positioned at one entrance of the metal pipe invert. The apparatus includes a frame having a forward end and a rearward end. A trough is connected to the forward end, and a support arm is connected to said rearward end. One end of a chute traverses the trough, while the other is supported by the support arm. A scraper is to the chute to spread concrete distributed from the trough into the pipe invert. The concrete is poured into the chute and distributed into the trough. The apparatus is pulled through the metal pipe invert to distribute concrete from an opening in the trough onto the metal pipe invert. The scraper engages the concrete to selectively spread the concrete on the metal pipe invert and repair the invert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Inventor: Alan Hollis
  • Publication number: 20110268506
    Abstract: A flood defense apparatus including a channel 10 having a base 12 and side walls 14, 16 extending downwardly from a surface level opening 36 to the base 12 so as to be adapted to collect and transfer surface liquid, a channel dividing formation 18 extending generally downwardly from the opening of the channel towards but not to the base, so as to divide the channel into a drainage portion 20 open for the access flow of surface liquid and a chamber portion 22 and to define a liquid communicating portion 24 between the drainage portion and the chamber portion below the dividing formation, and at least one buoyant barrier member 26 received in the chamber portion to be selectively moveable between a first position within the channel and a second position where the barrier member at least partially extends from the channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventors: Anthony Thornbury, Stuart Varndell
  • Patent number: 7967523
    Abstract: A trench drain assembly including a flow channel and a frame for supporting the channel in a trench. Sidewalls of the frame have a gradually increasing height between ends of the frame so that the frame creates a gradual slope for the assembly to properly drain. In addition, sidewalls of the frame include spaced lugs that extend outwardly and sidewalls of the channel include spaced lugs that extend inwardly to create an interference fit with the lugs of the frame so that the channel can be easily attached to the frame. During assembly, the frame is lowered onto the channel so that the lugs of the frame are received between the lugs of the channels and the frame is then slid with respect to the channel until the lugs of the frame are positioned below the lugs of the channel to secure the frame to the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Watts Water Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Roy Hetzler, Bushra A. Ghaly
  • Patent number: 7914229
    Abstract: A drain cover portion (100a, 100b) for a linear drainage system which comprises at least two attachment means. The attachment means are provided by at least one a connector attachment means (500) and at least one drain attachment means (700). The connector attachment means (500) is arranged to attach one or more anchor connectors (1002) for connecting an anchor (114) to the drain cover portion (100a, 100b) and/or one or more cover portion connector for connecting said drain cover portion (100a, 100b) to another drain cover portion (100a, 100b). The drain attachment means (700) is arranged to attach a drain portion (200) to the drain cover portion (100a, 100b). Each attachment means is arranged so as to allow the tool-less attachment of a connector/drain section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: ACO Polymer Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Alastair Aubusson, Rob King
  • Patent number: 7794176
    Abstract: An adjustable height drain has an elongate base element and an elongate drain element. The elongate base element has walls extending upwardly from the elongate base element. The elongate drain element has a top surface supported by downwardly extending walls, and the top surface has a plurality of apertures enabling water to drain through the top surface. First interlocking elements are vertically spaced from each other on the upwardly extending walls, and second interlocking elements are spaced apart from each other on the downwardly extending walls, enabling the elongate drain element to engage the elongate base element in either a first position or a second position, adapting to change in surface elevation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Stegmeier LLC
    Inventor: Darell W. Musser
  • Patent number: 7758282
    Abstract: An asymmetric corrugated ditch liner is disclosed that is formed with asymmetrical corrugations adapted to control fluid and materials flow through the liner. The asymmetric corrugated ditch liner also includes opposing angled opposing aprons that also having asymmetrical corrugations extending from opposing top edges of the ditch liner in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the liner. Connectors are provided for assembling the asymmetric corrugated ditch liner in a ditch. Anchors also are included for assembling the asymmetric corrugated ditch liner in a ditch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: FastDitch, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Suazo
  • Patent number: 7703502
    Abstract: An assembly is provided for forming a trench of a predetermined shape. The trench-forming assembly includes a removable longitudinal form body, a pair of frame members and at least one mounting bracket assembly. The form body is capable of shaping a moldable trench forming composition poured around the form. Each frame member includes a support surface, and is in engagement with a respective side surface of the form body. The mounting bracket assemblies, each of which can include a mounting bracket and a pair of hook members, extend laterally across the top surface of the form body. In this regard, each mounting bracket assembly removably engages a downwardly facing side of the support surface of the frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: ABT, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy Harold Wallace, Barry Clifton Williams
  • Patent number: 7637695
    Abstract: A frame for retaining a grate over a trench for directing storm water to subterranean basins includes a frame that is embedded in the concrete surrounding the trench. The frame includes a support member, including a vertical support that is sized and dimensioned to abut the wall of the trench, and a horizontal flange that is cantilevered over the trench to receive a grate member. The frame further includes a reinforcement member that runs parallel to the length of the support member, and a plurality of rib members that couple the reinforcement member to the support member. The reinforcement member and rib members are embedded in the pavement adjacent the trench, to provide a back structure for reinforcing the support of the grate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Neenah Foundry Company
    Inventor: Steven M. Akkala
  • Patent number: 7637694
    Abstract: An adjustable drain has an elongate base element and an elongate drain element. The elongate base element has upwardly extending walls extending upwardly from the elongate base element. The elongate drain element has a top surface supported by downwardly extending walls, and the top surface has a plurality of apertures enabling water to drain through the top surface. First interlocking elements are vertically spaced from each other on the upwardly extending walls, and second interlocking elements are spaced apart from each other on the downwardly extending walls, enabling the elongate drain element to engage the elongate base element in either a first position or a second position, adapting to either smaller or larger pavers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Inventor: Darell W. Musser
  • Patent number: 7632042
    Abstract: An alignment device is disclosed use in maintaining the alignment of longitudinal frame members of a trench-forming assembly. The alignment device comprises a cross member. Extending in the same direction from opposite ends of the cross member is at least one pair of first lateral extensions. The pair of lateral extensions is spaced apart so as to contact the respective longitudinal frame members of the trench-forming assembly, and thereby maintain the two frame members at a distance relative to each other. The alignment device may further include at least one interior extension extending from the cross member in the same direction as the pair of first lateral extensions. In this embodiment, the interior extension defines a slot between the interior extension and at least one of the first lateral extensions, where the slot is structured is to receive at least a portion of one of the longitudinal frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: ABT, Inc.
    Inventors: Ralph E. Brafford, Jr., Roger J. Morrow, Timothy H. Wallace, Bryan A. Hendrix
  • Patent number: 7588392
    Abstract: A two-part grate assembly for a channeled drain trough. The grate assembly has a grate frame that receives a removable grate section. The grate frame has lugs with vertical projections extending therefrom that define securing recesses that assist in aligning and securing the grate frame atop a drain trough. Additionally, the present invention is directed to the use of an alignment bar that prevents the grate section from sliding out of operating position within the grate frame by restricting lateral movement of the grate section. Further, the present invention is directed to a method of providing a grate assembly for a channeled drain trough having a grate frame that is adapted to receive a removable grate section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: Zurn Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Doug Wroblewski, Kevin D. Himes, Patrick Slater, Douglas Dalton, David A. Ecklund, Joseph A. Sanfilippo
  • Patent number: 7534071
    Abstract: A cradle assembly for installing trench drain or conduit channels which enables the channels to be suspended from support rods while simultaneously permitting the adjustment of the channel height with in the trench. Because the assembly enables the channel to be supported by the support rods while permitting adjustment of the channel height, final adjustments can be performed by a single worker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: ACO Polymer Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Derek Humphries, James McConnell
  • Publication number: 20090103982
    Abstract: A modular trench drain system with sloping overlay rails. A non-sloping section of trench drain is transformed into a sloping trench drain by installing sloping overlay rails. The overlay rails rest on the top of the upper edge of the sidewalls and may have a ledge which allows grating, which spans across the channel, to rest on top. The modular channel sections may be held together and in place by a channel bracket with holes for accepting support rods which further secure the channels in place before and after the concrete has been poured and cured around the channels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventors: Barry J. Hodgekins, Craig Swider, Jason Jacobs, Peter Lenk, Wolfgang Strandl, Brian Tubaugh
  • Patent number: 7513712
    Abstract: A device of a water draining system for caverns is described, comprising one or more sections of tunnel covering or tunnel canvas which is arranged in the cavern at a certain distance from the walls and ceiling of the cavern, and a draining pipe system for leading away water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Giertsen Tunnel AS
    Inventor: Alv Hanstvedt
  • Patent number: 7507054
    Abstract: A below grade trench drain system and a method for making the trench drain system is disclosed which does not rely on the contractor's prowess to dig a trench with a proper slope. The trench drain system, in accordance with the present invention, includes a plurality of modular trench sections formed with a uniform exterior height and an interior fluid channel formed with a pre-sloped floor. As such, the trench drain system, in accordance with the present invention, can be installed in a level trench, which greatly simplifies installation by the contractor and ensures that the trench drain will be installed with the proper slope. The modular trench sections can be coupled together forming a trench drain with a continuous slope or alternatively coupled with modular trench sections with no slope to form a stepped slope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: Lighthouse Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Charles Fithian, Todd J. Holloway
  • Patent number: 7491017
    Abstract: A surface drainage device, in particular a sink tank is provided for connection to a drainage device or similar water-conducting element. At least one wall section of the surface drainage device is provided for connection to the water-conducting element and includes at least one flat section that is made of an elastomeric material, so that it can be adapted for the connection by a simple tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: ACO Severin Ahlmann GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Markus Blaschke
  • Publication number: 20080187399
    Abstract: An asymmetric corrugated ditch liner is disclosed that is formed with asymmetrical corrugations adapted to control fluid and materials flow through the liner. The asymmetric corrugated ditch liner also includes opposing angled opposing aprons that also having asymmetrical corrugations extending from opposing top edges of the ditch liner in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the liner. Connectors are provided for assembling the asymmetric corrugated ditch liner in a ditch. Anchors also are included for assembling the asymmetric corrugated ditch liner in a ditch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: FastDitch, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Suazo
  • Patent number: 7357600
    Abstract: A water management system includes a series of corrugation couplers adapted for compressibly connecting and detaching liner sections end to end. Each corrugations coupler is included in successively formed corrugation segments. Each corrugation segment includes two adjacent corrugations, a leading corrugation, and a trailing corrugation. The leading corrugation is formed with a substantially triangular cross-section having a rounded apex (the “extended corrugation”); the trailing corrugation in a corrugation segment is formed with a substantially frustoconical cross-section having a height less than the height of the extended corrugation (the “shortened corrugation”). Also included is a connector for contributing to interconnecting liner sections end-to-end. A compressibly resilient gasket is included for contributing to sealing the liner sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Fast Ditch, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Suazo, Dawn S. Harder
  • Publication number: 20080019776
    Abstract: A below grade trench drain system and a method for making the trench drain system is disclosed which does not rely on the contractor's prowess to dig a trench with a proper slope. The trench drain system, in accordance with the present invention, includes a plurality of modular trench sections formed with a uniform exterior height and an interior fluid channel formed with a pre-sloped floor. As such, the trench drain system, in accordance with the present invention, can be installed in a level trench, which greatly simplifies installation by the contractor and ensures that the trench drain will be installed with the proper slope. The modular trench sections can be coupled together forming a trench drain with a continuous slope or alternatively coupled with modular trench sections with no slope to form a stepped slope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2006
    Publication date: January 24, 2008
    Inventors: Paul Charles Fithian, Todd J. Holloway
  • Patent number: 7306401
    Abstract: The present invention may be assembled for use in conveying fluids flowing on terrain. A conduit may have two elongated side walls and a bottom connector formed in an approximate V cross section shape. The two elongated side walls may have an upper flange with an edge element that may have an expanded diameter relative to the upper flange thickness. A side panel may have a length that is approximately the same as the two elongated side walls. The side panel may have a groove in each longitudinal edge for attachment to the edge element. The side panel may be attached to a terrain ground structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Silent, LLC
    Inventor: Les L. Linkogle
  • Patent number: 7172368
    Abstract: An assembly is provided for forming a trench of a predetermined shape. The trench-forming assembly includes a removable longitudinal form body, a pair of frame members and at least one mounting bracket assembly. The form body is capable of shaping a moldable trench forming composition poured around the form. Each frame member includes a support surface, and is in engagement with a respective side surface of the form body. The mounting bracket assemblies, each of which can include a mounting bracket and a pair of hook members, extend laterally across the top surface of the form body. In this regard, each mounting bracket assembly removably engages a downwardly facing side of the support surface of the frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: ABT, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy Harold Wallace, Barry Clifton Williams
  • Patent number: 7165914
    Abstract: The specification and drawing figures describe and show one or more improved ditch liners removably assembled into an improved ditch liner system. The improved ditch liner system includes a first liner section and a second liner section. Both liner sections are formed with a plurality of tightly peaked arc-and-ridge corrugations. Also included is a novel and unique overlap connection assembly for removably connecting one liner section to another liner section. In addition, various ways for sealing the overlap connection assembly are included. The interconnected system of improved ditch liner sections may be secured in a ditch by one or more removable rods. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure, but this abstract is not to be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of any claim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: FastDitch, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Suazo
  • Patent number: 7156580
    Abstract: The specification and drawing figures describe and show an interlockable drainage system insertable into a ditch that includes two or more liner sections. Each liner section includes a plurality of corrugations that are asymmetrical. The interlockable drainage system also includes a flared channel extending from opposing edges of the liner sections. A shoulder is formed in the opposing ends of the liner sections. A plurality of bosses is formed on the shoulder. The plurality of bosses on one shoulder is compressibly connectable to the plurality of bosses on an opposing shoulder, thus connecting one liner section to another. A connector is provided for added interconnectability of the plurality of bosses. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure, but this abstract is not to be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of any claim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: FastDitch, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Suazo, Isaac Suazo, Dawn S. Harder, Juan Griego, Julian Suazo
  • Patent number: 7134808
    Abstract: Plastic liner sections define a drainage channel when placed end to end. Each end has a stiff, double walled flange at each side of the end adapted to butt up to a similar flange at the adjacent end of the next sections. The double walled construction of the flanges stiffens the ends significantly reducing the risk of deformation by the hydrostatic forces produced by wet concrete during installation. A groove is formed inwardly of the flanges on a female end of the liner section and receives a sealing ring, which is held in place by a lip formed on a male end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: ACO Polymer Products, Inc.
    Inventors: David Charles Albone, Robert James King
  • Patent number: 7125506
    Abstract: A drainage channel installation device comprises a channel-securing member and a channel-hanging member. The channel-securing member releasably engages the channel-hanging member and has opposed ends that are adapted to be releasably secured to the opposed side walls of a drainage channel. The channel-hanging-member has both an engaging end that is adapted to releasably engage the channel-securing member and a suspending end that is adapted to receive and retain a suspending member. As a result, when the channel-securing member and the channel-hanging member are releasably engaged, the channel-securing member is releasably secured to the opposed side walls of the drainage channel and the suspending end of the channel-hanging member receives and retains the suspending member, the drainage channel can be suspended from the suspending member for installation of the drainage channel. The drainage installation device is reusable and allows the drainage channel to be positioned within a trench at any desired level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: ACO Polymer Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Derek Humphries, James McConnell
  • Patent number: 7059804
    Abstract: The invention relates to a drainage device for surface drainage, in particular to drainage channels with a channel body and a frame which fits on an upper edge of the channel body, comprising an outer arm and an inner arm between which the upper edge of the channel body sits, for housing a cover. According to the invention, simple economic production and assembly of the frame on the channel body may be guaranteed whereby the frame is embodied such as to be able to be cast within the body of the channel body on the casting thereof, or alternatively, may be fixed to the channel body by means of continuous jointing to a pre-fabricated channel body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: ACO Severin Ahlmann GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Michael Sieber, Markus Blaschke, Heino Messerschmidt, Arne Stoltenberg
  • Patent number: 7025532
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for lining ditches is provided. The apparatus and method for lining ditches, according to the present invention, includes a plurality of substantially corrugated liner sections, preferably made of a thermoplastic material such as polyethylene. Each liner section is designed to be assembled by detachably engaging ends of ditch liner sections. A sealant that does not bond with the material from which the liner sections are made may also be included. An inlet/outlet channel is included. The inlet/outlet channel is removably connectable with at least one end of a liner section by snapping together the two components. A liner section in the form of a splitter section also is provided. A splitter section permits rerouting the flow of water in a variety of directions through a ditch lined with the apparatus of the present invention. Also, a diverter section is included for diverting water from one flow direction through the ditch to a point or area of application of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: Fast Ditch, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Suazo, Isaac Suazo, Annabelle Suazo, Dawn Suazo Daugherty, Juan Griego, Julian Suazo
  • Patent number: 6991404
    Abstract: A closed modular ditch liner includes a plurality of closed liner sections, a plurality of covers, and at least one alignment key. The cross section of each closed liner section includes at least one trough contour and a single cover retention lip formed on a top end of each side thereof. Each cover is laterally retained between the two cover retention lips. A key slot is preferably formed on at least one side of the closed liner section to receive a single alignment key. However, alignment keys that do not require a key slot may also be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Inventor: James W. Charon
  • Patent number: 6945733
    Abstract: A cover for a drainage device, in particular a drainage channel with a channel body such that the cover can be set on an upper edge of the channel body, which comprises detent ridges that extend into the channel body and which has at least one fixing element to attach the cover to the channel body or to a frame disposed on the channel body to reinforce its upper edge, such that in a locked state the fixing element engages a recess in the channel body or frame. In order to achieve durable fixation of the cover on the channel body, while enabling the fixing element to be simple to manufacture and install, and the channel cross-section to remain free, the detent ridges comprise at least one aperture to guide the fixing element, which projects out of that aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: ACO Severin Ahlmann GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Axel Rathmann, Manfred Rinckens