Wall Patents (Class 137/360)
  • Patent number: 6895788
    Abstract: A water supply safety valve kit for an appliance in which the kit includes an individual solenoid actuated normally closed valve unit for each water supply line to the appliance and a control unit that plugs into a conventional electrical female household outlet. The control unit has a first outlet at the household line voltage and into which the power cord of the appliance plugs and a second lower voltage outlet responsive to current flow to the first outlet. A count down timer circuit and a low voltage output are activated by the current flow to the first outlet and lines connect that low voltage output to the solenoid valve unit to open the same. The count down timer terminates the low voltage output after a preselected time period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: MCSM, LLC
    Inventor: Danny K. Montgomery
  • Patent number: 6886587
    Abstract: A housing (10) for mounting on a mounting surface and for supporting and protectively enclosing a regulator (12) and one or more gauges (14,16) associated with providing, controlling, and monitoring a flow of gas from a pressurized gas supply, such as is commonly used, for example, in welding, cutting, and otherwise heating metal. The housing (10) comprises a front (20); a left side (22); a right side (24); a top (26), including a bolt flange (28); a bottom (30); a hinge (32); and a securement mechanism (34). The hinge (32) allows for easy access to the regulator (12) and gauges (14,16) without requiring that the housing (10) be completely removed from the mounting surface. The securement mechanism (34) includes one or more isolation mechanisms (64,68) for reducing or substantially eliminating transmission of potentially accuracy-affecting or otherwise damaging vibrations to the regulator (12) and gauges (14,16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: PARAgon Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Bob W. Fancher
  • Patent number: 6883534
    Abstract: A freezeless wall hydrant has a normally horizontal fluid inlet tube with an interior end and exterior end. A hollow valve fitting is rigidly secured to the interior end of the inlet tube for a connection to a source of pressurized fluid. A valve seat is located on an interior end of the valve fitting. A valve body is longitudinally movably mounted in the inlet tube adjacent to the valve fitting. A pressure relief valve is mounted on the inlet tube between the interior and exterior ends thereof so that if residual water within and adjacent the exterior end of the inlet tube freezes and exerts pressure on residual fluid within the inlet tube adjacent the interior end thereof, the pressure relief valve will actuate to purge some of the high pressure fluid to decrease the pressure being exerted by such fluid to the interior of the inlet tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: William T. Ball, Cody W. Jackson, Lawrence Almasy
  • Patent number: 6874527
    Abstract: A flanged bushing top portion is applied to a sink or counter surface over a mounting hole with a skirt portion descending from the top portion of the flanged bushing in to the mounting hole. A tapered expansion sleeve is threaded into the skirt portion of the flanged bushing. As the tapered expansion sleeve is threaded upwards into the tapered skirt portion, the skirt expands and pressed against the inside diameter of the sink mounting hole thereby securing the flanged bushing to the sink surface. A faucet valve assembly, soap/lotion dispenser, or water dispenser is lowered into the bores of the flanged bushing and the expansion sleeve, and the valve's escutcheon collar is secured to the top of the flanged bushing by means of a lock down collar which is threaded onto the exterior threads of the flange of the flanged bushing. This secures the valve assembly, soap/lotion dispenser, or water dispenser to the flanged bushing and consequently to the sink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Inventor: Ernest P. Meeder
  • Patent number: 6857442
    Abstract: A freezeless wall hydrant has a normally horizontal fluid inlet tube with an interior end and exterior end. A hollow valve fitting is rigidly secured to the interior end of the inlet tube for a connection to a source of pressurized fluid. A movable ball is located with a fluid conduit that extends from the interior of the inlet tube to the location of the potable water source. When the water pressure inside the inlet tube increases because of the presence of ice, the high pressure of such water moves the ball to open fluid flow of the high pressure fluid to the source of potable water which will be at a lower pressure, thus reducing the fluid pressure within the inlet tube and saving it from rupture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: William T. Ball, Cody W. Jackson, Lawrence Almasy
  • Patent number: 6857446
    Abstract: In a dual hydrant, the combination comprising two spaced apart tubular bodies to receive in-flow of fluids A and B, a fluid mixing zone to receive fluids A and B from said bodies, manually operable flow control valves in the two tubular bodies, a primary check valve in one of the bodies to pass forward fluid flow toward said mixing zone, and to block reverse flow in the one body, an outlet from the mixing zone, and a secondary check valve in series with the outlet to pass forward flow from either or both of the two bodies through the outlet, and to block reverse flow from the outlet to the mixing zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventor: Herbert W. Hoeptner, III
  • Patent number: 6845785
    Abstract: A flush-mount connector system is provided for use in attaching supply line valves and drain elbows to in-wall plumbing lines without a conventional in-wall outlet box. The system desirably includes at least one mounting plate, at least one valve holder or drain elbow, and a removable cover panel. The valve holder and drain elbow are each insertable into frictional engagement with a hole in the mounting plate and are rotatable inside the hole to position an attached valve, valves or drain elbow as needed for connection to the in-wall plumbing lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: LSP Products Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Duane R. Condon
  • Patent number: 6840267
    Abstract: A universal connection kit for installing a bath spout having an internal coupling at the discharge end to a wall pipe. The connection kit is made up of a conduit and a number of adapters for connection to varying types of wall pipe. The components are connected together via corresponding threaded sections. The particular adapter used depends upon the type of wall pipe present since each adapter allows connection to one of the common types of wall pipe. The universal connection kit provides a flush fit of the bath spout against the wall, regardless of which adapter is used, if any.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: NCH Corporation
    Inventors: John P. Jennings, Jeffery Tzeng, Alexander Yeh
  • Publication number: 20040261853
    Abstract: A universal connection kit for installing a bath spout having an internal coupling at the discharge end to a wall pipe. The connection kit is made up of a conduit and a number of adapters for connection to varying types of wall pipe. The components are connected together via corresponding threaded sections. The particular adapter used depends upon the type of wall pipe present since each adapter allows connection to one of the common types of wall pipe. The universal connection kit provides a flush fit of the bath spout against the wall, regardless of which adapter is used, if any.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: John P. Jennings, Jeffery Tzeng, Alexander Yeh
  • Patent number: 6830063
    Abstract: A freezeless wall hydrant is provided that has an elongated inlet pipe comprised of a hollow tube. The tube is connected to a valve and fitting assembly on its inner end for connection to a source of water under pressure. On the outer end, the tube is connected to an adjusting element with an outlet port that is associated with the valve and fitting assembly to open or close the tube to fluid flow and allow for fluid flow out of the tube when the valve is in the open position. The tube is comprised of a flexible material that enlarges in diameter in an area along its length when it is subjected to trapped fluid therein under high pressure so that the tube will not rupture. The tube returns to its normal diameter after the high fluid pressure therein is abated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Patent number: 6805154
    Abstract: A freezeless wall hydrant has a fluid inlet end connected to a source of pressurized water, and a fluid outlet end. A check valve is placed in the bore of the valve body and is spring loaded to open only when extreme water pressure within the inlet valve lifts a spring loaded piston element to permit the highly pressurized water to move through the bore in the valve body and be relieved as it escapes rearwardly into the original source of pressurized water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Alfred F. Dickey, Cody W. Jackson, William T. Ball
  • Patent number: 6789564
    Abstract: A hose reel includes a reel and a movable curve tube disposed on the center of a tabular rack. A cover is fixed on a lateral side of the rack while a crank is positioned on the other lateral side. A multi-path hose connects to a movable curve tube by a coupling for being wound on the reel through the crank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: Chung-Cheng Wu
  • Patent number: 6786239
    Abstract: A storage hub is described for the temporary storage of a cap of the type typically threaded onto the outlet of a spigot to prevent leakage. The hub comprises a generally U-shaped body that can be mounted on the valve stem of a spigot, on top of the handle. Alternatively, it can be mounted on the wall of the structure on which the spigot is mounted. The hub has a generally cylindrical body provided with external threads onto which the cap is threaded. Several means are described for securing the hub to the spigot or to the adjoining wall structure. Among them is the use of magnetic attraction, a suitable adhesive, a nail, or a threaded fastener. An alternative is for the hub and the valve handle to be a unitary structure. The hub can be made from a polymer, an elastomer or metal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Inventor: Charles A. Welsh
  • Patent number: 6766821
    Abstract: A reel for storing an air hose includes a hollow housing having a spring biased pulley rotatably mounted therein. A pressured air inlet extends through the housing along the pulley axis of rotation and is sealed to a nozzle rotating with the pulley. The pulley stores an air hose having one end connected to the nozzle and an opposite end extending through an opening in the housing for attachment to a pneumatic tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: Alert Stamping & Mfg. Co, Inc
    Inventors: James D. Kovacik, Paul S. Blanch, Joseph J. Smith
  • Patent number: 6761183
    Abstract: In a valving assembly, the combination comprising an elongated hollow valve body having an inlet and an outlet for fluid flow, a valve in the body to control the flow, an elongated hollow stem movable in the body to open and close the valve, packing extending between portions of the stem and body, in spaced relation to the valve, a side drain port in and movable by the stem between a first position in which the port is blanked by the packing, and a second position in which the port is exposed to fluid in the body outside the stem, to pass such fluid into the stem for drainage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Inventor: Herbert W. Hoeptner, III
  • Patent number: 6752167
    Abstract: The wall hydrant is automatically draining, providing freeze resistant, and includes protections against contamination of a building's potable water supply from the backflow of water in an attached hose. In particular, a dual check hose connection backflow preventer provides protection against back pressure from a hose fill of water which is elevated 10 feet. In addition, protection is provided from back siphonage due to a reduction of pressure in the potable water system within the building. Finally, a biased open atmospheric vent is located between the two independent checks to further assure the protection against backflow from the hose to the potable water system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Assignee: Jay R. Smith Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: William A. Stanaland, Stephen L. Buehler
  • Publication number: 20040112433
    Abstract: A housing for receiving a gas line, sized to fit behind the plane of a wall. The housing including a back member and a plurality of side members sealed along a plurality of seams to define an enclosure having an open face generally parallel to the back member. The enclosure defining an interior surface and an exterior surface and at least one of the interior surface and exterior surface including a fire resistant material. An orifice is located in at least one of the side members and the orifice is adapted to accept the gas line. At least one attachment member is adapted to permit the enclosure to be affixed to the wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Applicant: DICOSOLA, NICOLA A.
    Inventor: Nicola A. Dicosola
  • Patent number: 6748970
    Abstract: A fluid diaphragm valve and interconnected pilot valve apparatus for control flow of fluid discharge from a pressurized fluid distribution system. The apparatus has a primary valve with an inlet adapted to receive fluid under pressure, and an outlet adapted to discharge fluid to an outlet conduit. A diaphragm chamber is provided in the primary valve that is responsive to fluid pressure controlled by a pilot diaphragm valve. Upon release of fluid pressure in the pilot diaphragm valve, the primary valve allows passage of fluid to the outlet conduit. Bleed fluid from the pilot valve is also discharged into the outlet conduit and is thus saved for use. Upon closure of the pilot valve, a bleed port in the primary diaphragm in the primary valve allows repressurization and seating of the primary diaphragm, thus terminating fluid flow through the primary valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Inventor: Myron Keller
  • Publication number: 20040103941
    Abstract: An assembly for mounting a tub/shower mixing valve onto a fiberglass shower stall wall. The assembly comprises a valve mounting sleeve and a locking plate that helps secure the mounting sleeve to the shower stall wall. Alternatively, the mounting sleeve may be secured to the shower stall wall by bolts threadably connected to the mounting sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2003
    Publication date: June 3, 2004
    Inventor: B. Eugene HODGES
  • Patent number: 6732757
    Abstract: An improved water-treatment canister configuration of the chemical-dispensing bypass type, employing a screw-cap for periodic replenishment of an active chemical-feed ingredient; —featuring a special EZ-PURGE™ push-button bleed-valve device, enabling more convenient means by which to quickly and reliably release air otherwise remaining debilitatingly-captive within the canister upon replacement of the screw-cap during routine-maintance. An collar like security/cap-lock device employing a conventional padlock, serves as an antitamper-device, while an “Emergency Service”—label is also included, whereby an inexperienced person can simply deactivate the metering-system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Inventor: Roger A. Benham
  • Patent number: 6732758
    Abstract: A fluid shock absorber assembly having a shut-off valve, a water hammer arrester device and a water inlet. The assembly is comprised of a low profile adaptor structure constructed and arranged to permit the assembly to be mounted in a housing enclosure for aligning and joining water lines to form washing machine and icemaker connection structures. The housing enclosure which mounts to a building structure is designed to further allow the fluid shock absorber assembly components to be installed, maintained and replaced therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: Oatey Co.
    Inventor: Raun A. Kopp
  • Publication number: 20040069346
    Abstract: A sprinkler winterization and drainage device and method for use in new and existing sprinkler systems that is capable of operation completely from the outside of a building. The devices and methods of the present invention may be used for sprinkler systems in residential homes, commercial or residential rentals, parks, schools and any other application where the main water supply conduit and main sprinkler supply line is located within the interior of a building. The device and method include a valve assembly including a valve located inside a building for shutting off the main sprinkler supply line from outside the building, while also providing for drainage of residual water in the valve assembly to the outside of the building. The device and methods of the present invention completely eliminate the necessity of entry into a building in order to perform sprinkler winterization.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Adrian
  • Publication number: 20040050423
    Abstract: A two-piece, flush-mounting box designed for installing plumbing elements consists of the flush-mounting box itself and a flange that may be fastened to the side walls of the flush-mounting box at a certain distance from its front. That distance is preset prior to installation in order that, as the case may be, removal of its protruding portion will be unnecessary or the front surface of the flange will be flush with the front or rear surface of the wall when it has been installed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventor: Alois Schoenweger
  • Patent number: 6698103
    Abstract: A mounting plate assembly for use in aligning electrical and plumbing components of a toilet flush valve installation includes a pair of rails having openings therein for use in attaching the assembly to wall studs of variant spacing. There is a plate with openings and fasteners on the plate and rails for variable mounting of the plate to the rails. The plate has an opening for installation of an electrical box and at least one opening for a water inlet pipe. A pipe locater is used to properly position a pipe within the plate opening. There are openings at upper and lower portions of the plate to insure its correct vertical alignment with a water drain from a toilet fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Sloan Valve Company
    Inventors: Richard A. Nortier, Mario E. Semchuck
  • Patent number: 6695001
    Abstract: A housing for receiving a gas line, sized to fit behind the plane of a wall. The housing including a back member and a plurality of side members sealed along a plurality of seams to define a enclosure having an open face generally parallel to the back member. The enclosure defining an interior surface and an exterior surface and at least one of the interior surface and exterior surface including a fire resistant material. An orifice is located in at least one of the side members and the orifice is adapted to accept the gas line. At least one attachment member is adapted to permit the enclosure to be affixed to the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: Nicola A. Dicosola
  • Patent number: 6672329
    Abstract: An in-wall retractable water hose assembly for retracting and storing a water hose, having a housing located within a dwelling and an insulated front access door for providing access to the hose from outside the dwelling. A reel assembly is mounted within the housing on which the water hose is spooled, and a motor connected to the reel assembly effects rotation of the reel. A power box is positioned within the housing and has a power switch in communication with the motor. A movable casing is mounted on the reel assembly, the casing having a channel for accommodating the water hose. Movement of the casing along the reel assembly determines the positioning of the hose and maintains an even distribution of the hose along the reel. A stabilizing bar prevents wobbling of the casing during retraction of the water hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventors: Rodney Brooks, Robert Murphey
  • Patent number: 6668852
    Abstract: A service sleeve coupled with a frost proof sillcock including a housing having an outer surface and defining an inner chamber for receiving an inner portion of the sillcock, a stem portion, and an area of water pipe that extends radially from the stem portion to the structure's water supply. The service sleeve further includes a cap having an inner surface, a first end having a diameter to receive the outer surface of the housing, and a second end having a diameter sized to slidingly receive the water pipe. The stem portion having a male portion and a female portion. The male and female portions have bores therethrough. The female portion having an inlet end coupled to the water pipe and an opening opposite the inlet end for access to the bore of the female portion. The male portion having an outlet end for connecting to the inner portion of the sillcock and an opening for access to the bore of the male portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Continental Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: John Theodore Williamson
  • Patent number: 6640357
    Abstract: A water faucet structure includes a first valve seat mounted in one side of a wall, a first ceramic control valve fastened to the first valve seat, a second valve seat mounted in other side of the wall in a back-to-back manner in relation to the first valve seat, and a second ceramic control valve fastened to the second valve seat. The first and the second ceramic control valves each have a bottom seat which is provided with a cold water inlet, a hot water inlet, and a water outlet. The water inlets and the water outlets of the first and the second ceramic control valves are arranged in a mirror image pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Hain Yo Enterprises Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chia-Bo Chang
  • Publication number: 20030192593
    Abstract: The present invention provides an axially-rotated valve which permits increased flow rates and lower pressure drop (characterized by a lower loss coefficient) by using an axial eccentric split venturi with two portions where at least one portion is rotatable with respect to the other portion. The axially-rotated valve typically may be designed to avoid flow separation and/or cavitation at full flow under a variety of conditions. Similarly, the valve is designed, in some embodiments, to produce streamlined flow within the valve. A typical cross section of the eccentric split venturi may be non-axisymmetric such as a semicircular cross section which may assist in both throttling capabilities and in maximum flow capacity using the design of the present invention. Such a design can include applications for freeze resistant axially-rotated valves and may be fully-opened and fully-closed in one-half of a complete rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2003
    Publication date: October 16, 2003
    Applicant: Bighorn Valve, Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Walrath, William R. Lindberg, Robert K. Burgess
  • Patent number: 6601604
    Abstract: This invention provides for a valve system for use in fire suppression systems that provides pressure relief, pressure testing, and drain/test fluid flow capability. The valve system consists of a valve body with an attached riser. Adjustably attached to the riser is a rotary handle for raising and lowering a spring loaded valve stem. A blocking plug is provided for attachment to the handle which operates to block the movement of the valve stem during pressure testing of the fire suppression system. A tension disk is adjustably attached to the inside of the riser to manually adjust the spring tension. In addition, a means is provided for preventing system fluid from contacting the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Inventor: Michael S. Cooper
  • Publication number: 20030127136
    Abstract: A mounting assembly is disclosed for mounting an object, such as a valve or a spa jet about an aperture in a wall such as a bath or shower wall. The assembly has the advantage that the object can be mounted such that it projects a predetermined distance from the front surface of the wall and can be secured to the wall by rotating a member on the front side of the wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Inventor: Kipley Roydon Marks
  • Patent number: 6581627
    Abstract: A dialysis wall station is disclosed which presents a recessed solutions distribution area having a valve panel, an intermediate cantilevered connections panel and drain area. The drain area includes a back wall, an inclined floor that extends downwardly to a rear corner drain and a front lip. The wall station also includes a valve clamping block for securely mounting the solution valves to the wall station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventor: Jack R. Dillon
  • Patent number: 6561548
    Abstract: A protective device for a sanitary fitting contains a covering, which during installation steps is mounted such that outlets of the fitting are sealed in pressure-resistant manner and/or are interconnected. This sealed covering is connected by separable means to a cylindrical skirt, which surrounds the fitting and/or the fitting part. After the installer tests the house plumbing and completes the wall surface, the covering is removed again from the sanitary fitting or the part thereof. As desired, it is also possible to remove the skirt or leave it in the wall. For this purpose the skirt is attached to the sealing part of the covering by easily separated ridges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Hansgrohe
    Inventors: Ralf Mantel, Werner Lorch
  • Patent number: 6561387
    Abstract: The material transport system is for conveying water softener salt to a water softener brine tank located in the interior of a structure such as a house. A portable loading hopper is employed from outside of the house. The hopper is located adjacent and demountably attached to the exterior wall of the structure and has an open top and a bottom end. The hopper has converging side walls extending towards the bottom end and terminating in an annular collar. A coupling is secured to the collar with the coupling having a first extension. A 60° elbow is provided with a flange for receiving the first extension and is secured to the coupling. A tubular second extension is secured to the elbow and extends through the exterior wall into the interior of the structure. A feed tube having an enlarged end is located in the interior of the structure. The second extension extends into the enlarged end of the feed tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Inventor: Larry R. Slawson
  • Patent number: 6557576
    Abstract: An axially-rotated valve permitting increased flow rates and lower pressure drop is disclosed using an axial eccentric split venturi with two portions where at least one portion is rotatable with respect to the other portion. A cross section of the eccentric split venturi may be non-axisymmetric such as a semicircular cross section which may assist in both throttling capabilities and in maximum flow capacity. Applications are disclosed for freeze resistant axially-rotated valves which may be fully-opened and fully-closed in one-half of a complete rotation. An internal wide radius elbow connected to a rotatable portion of the eccentric venturi may assist in directing flow with lower friction losses. A valve actuator may actuate in an axial manner located outside of the axial flow path. A seat may be used between the two portions that may include a peripheral and diametrical seal in the same plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Big Horn Valve, Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Walrath, William R. Lindberg, Robert K. Burgess
  • Patent number: 6550157
    Abstract: A clothes dryer vent system is designed for hollow walls framed with scantling and covered with sheathing secured to the scantling, the walls having a hollow interior space that is uniformly, at least about 3½ inches wide. The vent system includes a rough-in box for recessed mounting within a hollow wall, the rough-in box having a substantially planar rear panel, side panels and nonparallel top and bottom panels, the side panels and the top and bottom panels intersecting and unitary with the rear panel, each side panel intersecting and unitary with both top and bottom panels, the rough-in box also having a depth no greater than about 4 inches, and a stub connector pipe affixed within the top panel, the stub connector pipe having a lower portion of oval-shaped cross section within the box that is couplable to a flexible dryer vent hose and an upper portion outside the box directly couplable to an oblong vent pipe having a minor cross-sectional dimension no greater than about 2 inches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Robert W. Harding
  • Patent number: 6546953
    Abstract: A hose concealing device which hides a hose when it is not intended to be used and which allows access to the hose when it is desirable to use the hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Inventor: Steven Kowalke
  • Publication number: 20030056826
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes prefabricated, modular plumbing assemblies and methods of installing the plumbing assemblies. The plumbing assemblies contain all the components needed for a complete installation. The plumbing assemblies are modular and prefabricated, so that in most cases only one measurement is required on site for installation of the assemblies. The installed plumbing assemblies are at an appropriate finished height and orientation for connection to a plumbing fixture. The use of the plumbing assemblies of the present disclosure greatly simplifies the installation process, decreasing the labor cost associated with installation, decreasing the time needed for installation, saving on material costs and material waste and reducing the installation errors inherent in the current methods for installing plumbing assemblies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventor: James D. Thomas
  • Patent number: 6532986
    Abstract: A freezeless wall hydrant has a fluid inlet end connected to a source of pressurized water, and a fluid outlet end. A check valve is placed in the bore of the valve body and is spring loaded to open only when extreme water pressure within the inlet valve lifts a spring loaded piston element to permit the highly pressurized water to move through the bore in the valve body and be relieved as it escapes rearwardly into the original source of pressurized water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Alfred F. Dickey, Cody W. Jackson, William T. Ball
  • Patent number: 6526699
    Abstract: A water holding and dispersing apparatus for catching and retaining rainwater for later watering usage. The water holding and dispersing apparatus includes a housing having a top wall, a bottom wall, a front wall, a back wall, a first side wall and a second side wall. The housing comprises a substantially rigid material. A supply pipe is positioned nearer the top wall than the bottom wall and has a first end fluidly coupled to the housing. A second end of the supply pipe is fluidly coupled to a gutter of a dwelling such that water in the gutter will flow into the housing through the supply pipe. A first drainage pipe is fluidly coupled to the first side wall and is located generally adjacent to the bottom wall. The first drainage pipe has a valve thereon for selectively opening and closing the first drainage pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventor: Steve J. Foglio, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20030019523
    Abstract: A housing for receiving a gas line, sized to fit behind the plane of a wall. The housing including a back member and a plurality of side members sealed along a plurality of seams to define a enclosure having an open face generally parallel to the back member. The enclosure defining an interior surface and an exterior surface and at least one of the interior surface and exterior surface including a fire resistant material. An orifice is located in at least one of the side members and the orifice is adapted to accept the gas line. At least one attachment member is adapted to permit the enclosure to be affixed to the wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2001
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventor: Nicola A. Dicosola
  • Patent number: 6510748
    Abstract: A pipe connection system has a non-threaded, quick-pipe connection for connecting pipe in a pressurized system, for connecting piping components within a fire sprinkler system, including a flow switch to a fire sprinkler system riser port. A male and female member are attached through the use of a through-slot in the female member that aligns with a groove in the male member such that a locking clip may be inserted through the female and male members when they are joined, thereby blocking the members from being dis-joined. An O-ring seal in a groove on the male member and sealable bore on the female member allow for a sealed and pressurized piping system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Inventor: Michael S. Cooper
  • Patent number: 6477813
    Abstract: A fire protection sleeve (1) for a pipeline (4), which extends through an opening (2) in a wall (3), is surrounded circumferentially at least partly by intumescing material (10) contained in a fire-resistant folded fabric tube (5). The fabric tube (5) forms several circumferential, unilateral inner folds (6) and the folds (6) are sewn in each case with a yarn (8), to an opposite side of the tube, and the yarn melts or burns in the event of a fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Arndt Andresen
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20020134431
    Abstract: A fluid shock absorber assembly having a shut-off valve, a water hammer arrester device and a water inlet. The assembly is comprised of a low profile adaptor structure constructed and arranged to permit the assembly to be mounted in a housing enclosure for aligning and joining water lines to form washing machine and icemaker connection structures. The housing enclosure which mounts to a building structure is designed to further allow the fluid shock absorber assembly components to be installed, maintained and replaced therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventor: Raun A. Kopp
  • Patent number: 6435206
    Abstract: A valve outlet assembly for mounting to a building structure and adapted to interconnect a water supply line to a plumbing fixture or an appliance. The outlet assembly has a housing enclosure, an exterior cover and alignment and mounting assemblies which cooperate with the housing structure. A valve structure is mounted in the housing to a conduit fitting which extends through a housing wall. The valve structure is constructed and arranged to receive a water line extending to the appliance. The housing enclosure has opposing alignment and mounting assemblies which provide for various securement options to position the valve outlet assembly within a building wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: Oatey Company
    Inventor: Michael W. Minnick
  • Publication number: 20020108328
    Abstract: A process for anchoring a water line to a building wall for supporting an attached spigot is the step of selecting a spigot water line anchor having a generally spool shape having a center support member having a pair end flanges attached thereto having an opening slot extending through the spigot water line anchor for sliding over a water line adjacent a spigot in a building wall for supporting the spigot and sliding the selected spigot water line anchor over a water line adjacent a spigot within the wall of a building having each anchor flange extending over adjacent opposite sides of a building wall for supporting the water line and spigot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventor: Dwayne E. Richardson
  • Patent number: 6431204
    Abstract: A wall hydrant assembly with a faucet head mounted to an exterior wall of a building and connected to an outlet pipe that extends through the exterior wall to a solenoid valve located in an interior area. An inlet pipe is connected to a water supply at one end and the solenoid valve at the other. An actuating means is operatively connected to the solenoid valve for controlling the valve to allow and prevent water to flow from the water supply to the faucet head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Patent number: 6421849
    Abstract: An assembly for mounting a faucet, plumbing control valve, or other plumbing fitting on a counter top or other wall is disclosed. The fitting includes an externally threaded housing (e.g. the exterior of a conduit or valve cartridge). The fitting is mounted by a wedge lock adapter that includes a cage and a ring nut. The cage has an annular base sized smaller than the mounting opening in the wall, and three wedge-shaped legs. The legs extend upwardly from the base through the opening to upper feet extending radially outward beyond the diameter of the mounting opening. The ring nut is captured in the cage and has an annular body with a threaded inner diameter that engages the external threads of the valve body. The ring nut has three tabs extending radially outward between the legs such that the fitting can be secured by rotating the fitting to drive the ring up, and thereby drive the legs outward against the inner diameter of the mounting opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventor: Ricardo O. Gray
  • Patent number: 6422520
    Abstract: A universal mounting bracket (20) being configured to mount a prepared shower mixing valve (55) directly to the reverse side of a fiber glass shower wall (52). A direct mounting is realized when a nearly circular mounting aperture (24) within the mounting bracket body (22) is aligned with a prepared mating aperture (54) through the fiber glass wall. The mounting bracket (20) is attached with a plurality of U shaped spring clips (46) that snap into a plurality of rectangular apertures (30) located on the bracket body (22). The mounting bracket comprises a plurality of rearward protruding forked projections (32) axial positioned at 90 degrees to one another on the outer rim of the bracket body. The configuration of the forked projections (32) allow a plurality of copper tubes (58) of the prepared mixing valve (55) to be saddled and secured into the forked projections (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Inventor: James F. Hand