Ground Supporting Enclosure Patents (Class 137/363)
  • Patent number: 11313116
    Abstract: A stackable baffle drop shaft unit and method provides a pre-cast body that has a peripheral wall extending thereabout and having a top edge and an opposing bottom edge, the peripheral wall has an exterior facing surface and an opposing interior facing surface, and the body defines a medial channel extending therethrough between the top edge and the bottom edge. A baffle is carried by, and extends inwardly from the interior facing surface and partially across the medial channel defined by the body, and the baffle is positioned between the top edge and the bottom edge. The top edge and the bottom edge of the pre-cast body each define a portion of a positionally securing engagement and alignment means for positional and vertical alignment and stacking of plural units on top of one another. Vertical stacking of plural bodies forms a medial channel extending therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Inventors: Richard J. Eggleston, II, Guy A. Conversano
  • Patent number: 10865886
    Abstract: A pressure control valve may include a valve body, a fixed cylinder and a rotating cylinder. The valve body may have an inlet port and an outlet port. The fixed cylinder may be fixed to an inner wall of the valve body. The fixed cylinder may include a quadrangular first fixed hole connected to the inlet port, and a quadrangular second fixed hole connected to the outlet port. The rotating cylinder may be rotatably arranged in the fixed cylinder. The rotating cylinder may include a quadrangular first pressure control hole selectively connected to the first fixed hole, and a quadrangular second pressure control hole selectively connected to the second fixed hole. Thus, the pressure control valve including the quadrangular fixed hole and the quadrangular pressure control hole may have improved pressure control function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jin-Won Lee, Young-Joo Kim, Kwang-Uk Lee
  • Patent number: 10704277
    Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to processes and apparatuses for use in forming one or more flow channels within a prefabricated manhole assembly. More specifically, an exemplary apparatus embodying various aspects of the disclosure may contain a rigid channel form with a closed top portion, a curved bottom portion, a first end, and a second end. The apparatus may also contain a bung(s) removably positioned into an exterior hole through a sidewall of the prefabricated manhole that may receive one end of the channel form, the bung(s) interior end may further have an open-ended U-shaped slot. A sliding wedge may be used to engaged/disengage the flow channel form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: S & M Precast, Inc.
    Inventor: Raymond L. Graf
  • Patent number: 10273664
    Abstract: A manhole base liner (1), in particular for a wastewater manhole, has a base body (2) which comprises a tread surface (3) and at least one pipe connection opening (5). The base body (2) is produced in one piece from flexible material with a wall thickness, with which it can be bent together substantially arbitrarily in at least partial regions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2019
    Assignee: Predl GmbH
    Inventor: Manfred Predl
  • Patent number: 9587392
    Abstract: A waste or storm water pumping station and system used to pump water from a lower elevation to a higher elevation during the process of moving or managing the water is disclosed herein. The pumping station has a wet well collection chamber with a sloped floor and an integral valve vault chamber cast within the pump station body, which results in increased storage capacity in the wet well chamber for pump station components. Additionally, the pumping station may be installed as a single unit of equal depth to eliminate differential settlement and multiple or uneven excavations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Oldcastle Precast, Inc.
    Inventor: Ken Pasco
  • Patent number: 9428918
    Abstract: A cover is provided in modular form for covering support structures, including columns supporting overpasses on roadways. The cover is formed of cover segments that are connected together laterally and vertically. The cover segments are provided with multiple techniques for vertical and horizontal connection, air channels, stand offs, worker viewing areas, and drainage spaces. The cover is made of a lightweight material and allows for tolerance for expansion of the support structure material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Inventor: Anthony P. Habodasz
  • Patent number: 9109342
    Abstract: A manhole for connecting fluid flow between and for providing access to an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe angularly oriented to one another in a sewage, storm water or like fluid handling system. The manhole comprises an upright housing which defines a manhole interior, the housing having first and second essentially planar upstanding outer sidewalls angularly oriented to one another at substantially the same angle as between the inlet and outlet pipes and a curved upstanding outer side wall extending between the first and second planar sidewalls. First and second openings are formed respectively through the first and second planar sidewalls into the manhole interior for receiving respective ends of the inlet and outlet pipes. A base section within the manhole interior defines a curvilinear fluid flow trough between the first and second openings for conveying fluid flow from the inlet pipe to the outlet pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Assignee: Monobend Technologies LLC
    Inventor: James V. Srackangast
  • Patent number: 9068696
    Abstract: A method of controlling overflow in a below-ground transfer pump sump used in the dispensing of liquid fuels. The method comprises providing a sump having a sump bottom below a level of ground immediately adjacent the sump, providing a storage tank having an internal cavity for the storage of liquid fuel, the storage tank having a conduit in communication with the sump and providing an overflow assembly having an inlet disposed within the sump and an outlet communicating with the conduit. The method includes permitting water from the ground adjacent the sump to enter the sump and mix with any liquid fuel in the sump and if the liquid fuel and water mixture in the sump reaches a predetermined level, allowing the liquid mixture to pass through the overflow assembly, into the conduit and into the storage tank containing the liquid fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: G & A Products, LLC
    Inventor: Garry L. LaPoint
  • Patent number: 9032989
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention provide adjustable pit liners for use in conjunction with pipelines installed underground. The pit liners provide surface access to devices in fluid communication with the pipeline. The adjustability of the pit liners facilitates installation of the pit liners before the final grade surrounding the pit is known. In various embodiments, a tubular structure having an upper section and a lower section is provided, wherein the upper section and the lower section are slideably connected in a telescoping relationship. A locking mechanism is also provided to releaseably lock the overall height of the tubular structure as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventors: Scott P. Floyd, Bobby W. Pope
  • Publication number: 20150107694
    Abstract: A drain box assembly for a convertible splash pad/ice rink structure comprises a housing having an open top and a closed bottom, sidewalls connecting the top and bottom of the housing in fluid sealing relation to form within the housing a vertically directed water flow channel that connects a water ingress port and a water egress port in fluid communication one with the other. Connectors operatively secure the housing at the water egress port to a drain pipe. A plurality of coolant pipe segments each have an axis of symmetry extending between a first open end and a second open end. The coolant pipe segments are mounted on the housing to extend through the vertically directed water flow channel adjacent the open top, in substantially transverse relation to the vertical water flow channel. The first and second open ends of each coolant pipe segment extend beyond the one or more upright walls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventor: Brendan Lenko
  • Publication number: 20150068616
    Abstract: The portable steel-reinforced HDPE pump station includes a vertically upright, cylindrical wet well fabricated from high-density polyethylene reinforced by helically wound steel ribs. HDPE profile wall material and endoskeleton are used for wet well reinforcement. Exterior foam insulation or thin HDPE shell wrap are disposed on outer portion of the wet well. The base of the pump station includes cross ribs atop a planar anti-flotation collar. Interior spaces between the cross ribs are filled with concrete to anchor the wet well in situ. Alternatively, a steel plate is used as a base. The steel plate base may be encapsulated by an HDPE sheet. HDPE sheets form a sloping hopper bottom at lower inside portion of the wet well. The annular space between the hopper bottom and base plate is filled solid with a closed-cell polyurethane insulation. Alternatively the wet wall is constructed of structurally reinforced thermoplastic without steel reinforcement ribs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventors: DANIEL M. EARLY, SCOTT F. EASTER
  • Patent number: 8955539
    Abstract: The portable steel-reinforced HDPE pump station includes a vertically upright, cylindrical wet well fabricated from steel-reinforced plastic. Pumps are disposed in the wet well. A pipe connected to the pumps extends to the outside of the wet well to allow outflow of water to external systems. An access hatch covers the upper portion of the wet well and is arranged above grade. The remainder of the wet well is disposed in the ground, below grade. Vertically disposed sliding rails are attached inside the wet well, and extend upward from a working area of the well to the top of the well near the access hatch. The pumps are slidably attached to the rails to facilitate sliding installation and removal of the pumps by way of the access hatch. A water-receiving inlet pipe extends into the wet well, the inlet pipe allowing entry of water inside the wet well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Inventors: Daniel M. Early, Scott F. Easter
  • 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: 8875729
    Abstract: A sump pump assembly broadly comprises a square or rectangular-shaped basin, a first shelf fixedly position in a lower end of the basin, a lid for securing to an upper end of the basin, the lid having a transparent window for viewing a water level in the basin, a light mounted within the basin for assisting in viewing the water level, a first pump positioned on a floor of the basin, a second pump positioned on the first shelf, and an alarm for notifying a building owner when the first pump ceases to operate but prior to operation of the second pump. Alternative embodiments comprise a battery-powered third pump, a battery for powering the third pump, and a mount for mounting the battery inside the basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Dry Basement, Inc.
    Inventors: Curtis Bramble, Otto W. Fleck, Lowell Hickman
  • Patent number: 8844559
    Abstract: A cleanout protector includes a hollow sleeve having an upper end, a lower end and at least one outer wall. The lower end includes a plurality of piercing members for penetrating surrounding soil. Any one of a plurality of fixtures, such as a solar lamp or a decorative design element, is removably mounted on the upper end of the sleeve. Accordingly, a user superimposes the sleeve on a cleanout and inserts the piercing members into the soil as far as possible. A desired fixture is mounted on the sleeve thereby protecting and decoratively concealing the cleanout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Dry
  • Publication number: 20140261770
    Abstract: An embodiment of a septic system comprises a primary tank, a wastewater inlet, and a passive overflow discharge system. The wastewater inlet is in fluid communication with the interior cavity of the primary tank, and the passive overflow discharge system comprises an overflow repository that is in fluid communication with at least one of the interior cavity of the primary tank and the wastewater inlet. In various embodiments, the overflow repository can comprise at least one auxiliary tank, a leach field system or combinations thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: John Matthew Weed
  • Publication number: 20140251439
    Abstract: An underdrain system for transferring forces and directing flow includes at least one underdrain block having a top wall, a bottom wall, and two side walls connecting the top wall to the bottom wall to define a block interior. An insert is disposed in the interior of the underdrain block. The insert includes force-transmitting buttresses spaced along an exterior of the insert that contacts the two side walls of the underdrain block and act to transfer downward forces acting on the top wall of the underdrain block and internal fluid forces acting on the insert to the side walls of the underdrain block. The force-transmitting buttresses can also direct hydraulic flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2014
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: Xylem Water Solutions Zelienople LLC
    Inventors: Christopher J. Ball, Brian J. Bates, Howard J. Sweeney
  • Publication number: 20140216571
    Abstract: The combination of: a) an underground valve for a supply line and having an underground actuator through which the state of the valve can be changed to control flow within the supply line; and b) a conduit assembly embedded in ground material and defining an access passage through which above ground access can be obtained to the valve actuator. The conduit assembly has a cap that can be selectively changed between: a) a first state wherein the cap blocks the entry opening; and b) a second state wherein above ground access can be gained to the valve actuator. The conduit assembly has an upper conduit part and a lower conduit part. The upper and lower conduit parts are interconnected and configured so that they move axially guidingly against and relative to each other so as to vary an effective combined axial length of the upper and lower conduit parts in response to forces generated by the ground material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: Argonics, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph Roell
  • Patent number: 8776822
    Abstract: An inflow protection device for preventing liquids and other contaminants from entering a water-carrying pipeline through an air valve connected to the pipeline. The inflow protection device includes an adaptor and an elongated vent pipe. The adaptor has a first end for coupling with an outlet of the air valve and second end. The vent pipe has a first end configured for directly or indirectly coupling with the second end of the adaptor and a second end extending out of and above a vault in which the air valve is installed. The vent pipe is of a length sufficient to position its second end above a flood plain level so that the second end allows air to be exhausted from and admitted into the air valve even when the vault in which the air valve is located becomes flooded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Odor Control Specialties, LLC
    Inventor: Mark McIntire
  • Publication number: 20140130902
    Abstract: A floor drain having a drainage gutter and a detachable cover that is firmly attached to the floor drain and configured to hold a tile that complements or accents the tile in the shower, the surrounding floor, or the floor plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Inventors: Timothy Lucas, Kent Charles Curley
  • Patent number: 8695627
    Abstract: A frame for supporting a pressure relief valve located within a frac line connected to high pressure pumps on frac trucks. A metallic base is formed from rectangular tubing in the shape of a box. Saddles on the base support a tee on the lower portion of the relief valve. Brace links are connected at one end to the corners of the metallic base and swivel about clevises to allow access to the pressure relief valve. The other end of the brace links connect to clevises on a flange when assembled. The flange is rigidly connected to an upper portion of the relief valve to stabilize the assembly. Lifting loops on the flange allow the frame to be lifted during assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: S.P.M. Flow Control, Inc.
    Inventors: Vladimir Kugelev, Mark D. Matzner
  • Publication number: 20140034152
    Abstract: A water storage fence apparatus for collecting, storing, and apportioning use of rainwater diverted therein, said water storage fence apparatus including a plurality of interconnectable fencing sections configured to be erectable around the boundary of an extant property, each of said fencing sections having a first storage tank and a second storage tank disposed within, wherein a plurality of joining pipes and a plurality of T junction pipes interconnect each of the plurality of fencing sections, wherein rainwater is storable within the first and second storage tank of each of the plurality of fencing sections and said rainwater drainable therefrom, as desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Peter A. Drummond
  • Patent number: 8561633
    Abstract: The steel-reinforced HDPE rain harvesting system collects, stores, and pumps harvested rain water for a variety of non-portable uses. The rain harvesting system includes either a horizontally disposed or vertically disposed steel-reinforced plastic cylindrical wetwell connected to an inlet pipe. The inlet pipe discharges rain water into a rain filter made from a pervious concrete manhole lined with a replaceable 20-micron filter cloth. The rain filter allows rain water into the storage section of the wetwell. A high water alarm is disposed in the rain filter and alerts maintenance personnel to clean the filter when needed. A submersible pump is housed in an HDPE pump sleeve outside the wetwell and conveys effluent from a forcemain at the wetwell's bottom portion to a target area. A level monitoring system disposed inside the wetwell selectively activates the pumping system. Maintenance hatches atop the unit are included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Inventors: Daniel M. Early, Scott F. Easter
  • Patent number: 8511336
    Abstract: An irrigation valve vault including a base frame member having a plurality of sides forming an enclosed area including a first side having a water inlet passage with a plurality of apertures along its length and opening into the enclosed area, a second side having a plurality of apertures extending from the enclosed area to connection points for water lines located on the outside of the second side, a plurality of valves located within the enclosed area and connecting between apertures on the first side and apertures on the second side, a sloped compartment located on top of the base frame, and a lid placed on the top aperture of the sloped compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventor: Scott Michael Schumacher
  • Patent number: 8496023
    Abstract: A temporary drainage system for draining rain water that flows into a floor under construction to an outside of a building during construction of a multiple-story building includes: a flexible drainage collection hose connected to a penetration hole formed in a floor slab of the floor under construction; a sand-settling vessel provided on a floor slab of a constructed floor of the building and connected to the drainage collection hose; a drainage pit provided on a lowest floor of the building to store drainage water discharged from the sand-settling vessel through a drainage hose; and a drainage pump provided in the drainage pit. The drainage water collected into the drainage pit is discharged to the outside of the building by an operation of the drainage pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Toshiba Plant Systems & Services Corporation
    Inventor: Tsuyoshi Honda
  • Patent number: 8474477
    Abstract: A watertight, multi-sectioned, sump-pump basin cover back-up device made of a first cover section defining an outer-rim having a central aperture for accepting a water tightly sealable second cover section having at least one opening therethrough for accepting a water-tightly sealable discharge pipe, another water-tight, uncoverable, covered aperture for drainage of water from the floor adjacent to the sump-pump basin into the basin only when the water-tight cover is removed, and an auxiliary discharge pipe having a predetermined height, providing for said pipe to function as a relief valve. The device fixedly or detachably attachable to a sump pump basin rim, reducing or eliminating sump-pump cavity overflow flooding, while retarding the escape of pump noise, odor, and gases known to emanate from sump-pump basins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Edward P. Melisz, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20130126406
    Abstract: The storm drain with water trap is installed in the opening of a storm or sewer drain to close off the underlying drain channels and residual water therein from the open air, thus preventing escape of mold, mosquitoes, and other hazards into the air. The device has an insert having an open top and bottom. A shallow water trap pan is suspended below the insert. In dry conditions, the water trap contains little water, the relatively light weight of the trap and contained water allowing it to be lifted by springs against the bottom of the insert to form a seal, When runoff water flows into the drain, the greater amount of water and its weight draws the insert downward, extending the springs and opening a gap between the lower edge of the insert and the water trap pan to allow the runoff water to flow therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventor: JASEM M.J. ALQANEE
  • Patent number: 8439648
    Abstract: A lift station containing a tube, an access box connected to the tube, and an inner pipe that is removable, positioned in the tube that can be used to contain and discharge process water. The design aids in construction and maintenance and can detect leaks that can reduce process water contamination of surrounding soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventor: Roy Harrison McIntyre
  • Patent number: 8348548
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods, devices and systems to maintain the accessibility and integrity of equipment contained in underground housings. The methods, devices and systems and methods of the present invention maintain the accessibility and integrity of equipment contained in underground housings by providing at least one barrier that prevents burrowing animals from off-loading displaced ground dirt or other debris into the space created by the underground housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventor: George W. Keeney
  • Publication number: 20120312386
    Abstract: A modular pre-cast concrete station (for gasoline, natural gas and/or other fuels) uses culverts that are assembled quickly and conveniently at the building site and, if desired, in the future, disassembled just as quickly and conveniently, thereby saving substantial costs, and thereby providing an entirely new (and potentially huge) market for the culverts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: R. Keith Barker
  • Publication number: 20120138160
    Abstract: A protective assembly for an operating nut of an actuator for a valve in an underground pipe system is comprised of a guide assembly and a mounting assembly. A riser pipe is used to access the operating nut from above ground. The protective assembly maintains alignment of the riser pipe at installation and as the ground shifts over time. The guide assembly is formed of a guide structure and a mounting collar that juts outwardly from the guide structure forming a flange. The mounting assembly has a first portion for attaching the mounting assembly to the flange, and a second portion for attaching the mounting assembly to the actuator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2011
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Inventors: Don Butler, Eric Jackson
  • Patent number: 8083436
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods, devices and systems to maintain the accessibility and integrity of equipment contained in underground housings. The methods, devices and systems and methods of the present invention maintain the accessibility and integrity of equipment contained in underground housings by providing at least one barrier that prevents burrowing animals from off-loading displaced ground dirt or other debris into the space created by the underground housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Inventor: George W. Keeney
  • Patent number: 8066029
    Abstract: A sewer backup alarm and overflow prevention device eliminates raw sewage spills by preventing pressure buildup in sewer drains. One or more sewage level sensors may be coupled to an alarm and/or to an automatic water main shut-off valve. The level sensor may detect excess fluid levels in a sewer lateral line. The sewer backup alarm and overflow prevention device may include a joggle which is a component of a non-mechanical backflow prevention device. The level sensor may detect fluid levels in the lower portion of the joggle and activate the automatic water main shut-off valve and/or the alarm. The sewer backup alarm and overflow prevention device may include at least one two-way, in-line cleanout tube which may extend vertically upwardly from the joggle. The level sensor may be mounted in the vertical cleanout tube. The components may be contained within a seamless polyethylene vault for ease of installation and protection against root intrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventors: William McDonald, Walter L. Dabbs, Paul Willman
  • Patent number: 7971602
    Abstract: Systems and methods for collecting, storing, and redistributing water, which systems and methods make use of building foundations and surface concrete slab structures. A variety of rainwater collectors are anticipated, including rooftop collection systems (e.g., gutters) and ground surface covering structures (driveways, sidewalks, parking lots, and patios). These collection systems are joined together in a collection conduit system that carries the rainwater to one or more rainwater containment vessels. The stored water may then be redistributed, again through a variety of distribution means, to address part or all of the landscape watering requirements of the property. The system takes advantage of standard foundation and slab construction techniques to establish a major portion of the structure required for the containment vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: David Lewis
  • Patent number: 7926510
    Abstract: A riser system for use at the access opening of a wastewater treatment tank includes an adaptor ring affixed to the top of the tank, and a mating riser. The adaptor ring and riser have ends with mating circumferential L-shape sections. There are horizontally projecting tabs spaced apart around the upper end of the adaptor. The tabs engage a corresponding number of L-shape slots which are spaced apart around the circumference of the bottom end of the riser. When ring and riser are mated, rotation of the riser relative to the adaptor causes each tab to move circumferentially to a recess in the slot, which locks the tab in position. Micro-ridges on horizontal mating surfaces of the L-shape sections help form a seal between the two parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: EZflow L.P.
    Inventors: Theophilus B. Terry, III, Thomas N. Jenkins
  • Publication number: 20110070026
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods, devices and systems to maintain the accessibility and integrity of equipment contained in underground housings. The methods, devices and systems and methods of the present invention maintain the accessibility and integrity of equipment contained in underground housings by providing at least one barrier that prevents burrowing animals from off-loading displaced ground dirt or other debris into the space created by the underground housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Inventor: George W. Keeney
  • Patent number: 7780374
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods, devices and systems to maintain the accessibility and integrity of equipment contained in underground housings. The methods, devices and systems and methods of the present invention maintain the accessibility and integrity of equipment contained in underground housings by providing at least one barrier that prevents burrowing animals from off-loading displaced ground dirt or other debris into the space created by the underground housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Inventor: George W. Keeney
  • Publication number: 20100139807
    Abstract: A sump assembly (70) comprising: (i) a sump body (71) including a bottom and at least one side wall (72), the bottom and side wall(s) co-operating to define an open topped internal cavity within the sump body capable of containing fluids, the side walls further defining an opening (76) in the top of said sump; (ii) at least one flange (77) extending outwardly from the side wall(s), the flange incorporating fixing means (79) adapted, in use, to tie the sump into the surrounding structure; (iii) a mounting frame assembly (90) adapted, in use, to be keyed into the surrounding structure and to secure a dispensing unit in place; wherein the sump body and the flange(s) are of unitary construction, the flange(s) being formed as an integral part of the sump body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventors: John Alexandre Boudry, Lee Markham
  • Publication number: 20100116358
    Abstract: To facilitate cleaning and to facilitate management thereof, a dust-removal managing pit is provided with an upper pit having a bottom and to which an inflow pipe is connected and a cylindrical lower vertical pit having its upper part connected to the upper pit for supplying water flowing down from an upper-end opening portion to a water storage tank. The upper end of the lower vertical pit is provided penetrating a bottom wall of the upper pit, while a peripheral wall of the upper pit is provided so as to surround the upper end of the lower vertical pit, and a peripheral groove for precipitating solid substances contained in water is formed between the periphery of the upper end of the lower vertical pit and the peripheral wall. A mesh plate constituted capable of filtering water leading to the peripheral groove is provided on the upper pit. One end of a drain pipe with the other end connected to a sewer pipe is connected to the peripheral wall, and an adjusting valve is provided in the drain pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Applicant: TOTETU MFG. CO. LTD.
    Inventor: Seiichiro Takai
  • Patent number: 7617994
    Abstract: A sprinkler head housing for allowing access to sprinkler heads and shafts for maintenance and repair. More particularly, the present invention relates to a device which allows for, and encloses, a working space around underground sprinkler heads. The device is placed around a sprinkler shaft in the ground and the plant material is placed on its outside. The top of the sprinkler head sits above the device. When the sprinkler needs to be accessed, the top of the device can be removed and an open interior space remains where a user can place his/her hands and/or tools to repair or replace a sprinkler head. This invention may be installed when the underground sprinkler system itself is first installed or alternatively may be installed at each sprinkler head as needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Inventors: William K. Gunderson, Lyle D. Ungerecht
  • Publication number: 20090183785
    Abstract: The disclosed sump pump pit is modular, being formed from substantial planar lightweight top, bottom and side walls that when disassembled can be carried compactly stacked on one another to an intended sump hole, and can then be assembled and secured together as the rigid pit defining an enclosure sized to hold at least one sump pump (preferably two sump pumps side-by-side). Cooperating tongue and groove configurations on the side wall edges interlock these components in a tubular configuration, and the end edges of the side walls can be fitted into and secured in channels in the top and bottom walls, making the pit rigid. The pit walls are perforated for communicating the sump hole with the pit enclosure. Piping extended through the top wall allows water to be pumped from the sump hole via the pit pump(s).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventors: Louis F. Cole, Douglas Chirichiello
  • Publication number: 20090044869
    Abstract: An irrigation valve box includes a body for shielding the valve, which forms an opening at the top, and a removable lid for fitting into the opening formed by the body. Access to the valve is normally gained by removing the lid. Metal is associated with the valve box for the purpose of being detected by a metal detector. In one arrangement the metal forms a plate which fits into the removable lid. In an arrangement especially suited for a larger or commercial valve box, the metal forms a metal ring which fits into the removable lid. In yet another arrangement, the lid comprises molded plastic or molded rubber and the metal is molded into the lid. In one such an arrangement, the metal forms a wire mesh.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: Wayne Brown, Morris A. Brown
  • Publication number: 20080289699
    Abstract: A downspout skirt includes a first skirt member having first and second exposed ends and having an inner surface configured to engage a side wall of a downspout, and including a second skirt member having third and fourth exposed ends and having an inner surface configured to engage a different side wall of the downspout. The downspout skirt also includes a fastening system for removably coupling the first and second exposed ends of the first skirt member to the third and fourth exposed ends of the second skirt member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2007
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventor: Gerard Buonpane
  • Patent number: 7380566
    Abstract: A system and method for dewatering a subsurface vault housing a portion of a pipeline is provided. The dewatering system includes a fluid inlet pipe adapted for fluidly communicating with the pipeline and redirecting fluid being transported by the pipeline to a fluid pump system. The fluid pump system includes a pump capable of being operated solely by the redirected fluid for removing fluids, such as water, from within the subsurface vault. A fluid outlet pipe in fluid communication with the fluid pump system returns fluid not used to operate the fluid pump system back to the pipeline for being transported downstream from the dewatering system. A liquid level sensor is used for generating and transmitting a signal to a valve when the water within the subsurface vault exceeds a predetermined level for permitting the redirected fluid to flow to the fluid pump system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Inventor: Jon Selander
  • Patent number: 7255124
    Abstract: The quick coupler anchor includes an anchor body having a pair of vertical plates extending generally at right angles one to the other and spaced from one another. Planes containing the plates, when extended, intersect along a vertical line offset from the center axis of a valve received in a recess in a member connecting upper edges of the vertical extending plates. The recess has a plurality of flats for registration with the flats of the hex nut of the valve body. When the anchor is embedded in the ground with the recess about the hex nut, the anchor restrains rotational movement of the valve relative to the anchor in response to a torque applied to the valve to open or close the valve. The center of vertical support of the anchor lies generally coincident with the vertical axis of the valve to provide stability to the valve and anchor upon vertical loadings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: The Harrington Corporation
    Inventors: John Emmett Riordan, III, Sean Brian Routon
  • Patent number: 7150290
    Abstract: A unitary concrete structure pumping station useful in pumping waste fluids and the like during the passing of such materials from one part of a gravity flow waste system to another. This concrete structure is simple to install and use and many of the problems associated with conventional pumping stations are alleviated. The structure is comprised of several parts that can be made pre-assembled at the factory or assembled in the field prior to installation. By being a unitary structure this pumping station is resistant to movements within the earth and therefore less likely to incur line breaks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: Electric Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank J. Smith
  • Patent number: 7004190
    Abstract: A protective collar for protecting the outside drop of a manhole having a U shaped housing extending from the outside wall of the manhole around the outside drop pipes and back to the outside wall. The protective collar having flanges at each end of the U shaped collar for attaching the collar to the outside wall of the manhole. The U shaped collar, having grooves on the inside for attaching rings, which surround the outside drop pipes. The rings having inside diameters, which vary to fit the size of pipe used by the outside drop such that are size collar works with any size outside drop pipe. An elbow attached to the outside of the manhole wall and to the protective collar such that the outside drop pipe connects to the elbow. Thus the outside drop is totally protected from being moved relative to the manhole which may cause leaks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Inventor: Julian P. Trangsrud
  • Patent number: 6997201
    Abstract: A wastewater control system for use with a sewer service line conducting a flow of wastewater from a building to a sewer main. A flow control device is installed in the sewer service line; and an actuator, in electrical communication with the sensor, is connected to the flow control device. The actuator in response to an output signal from a hydrologic sensor causes the flow control device to block the flow of wastewater to the sewer main and detain the wastewater in the sewer service line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Inventor: Herbert C. Preul
  • Patent number: 6986622
    Abstract: A pipework containment system comprising: (i) an outer containment pipe extending between a chamber and a sump; (ii) a fluid-tight seal between the outer containment pipe and the chamber; (iii) a fluid-tight seal between the outer containment pipe and the sump; (iv) a plurality of flexible supply pipes extending between said chamber and said sump; characterized in that the plurality of supply pipes are contained within one and the same outer containment pipe, the arrangement of supply pipes within the outer pipe and the flexibility of the supply pipes being such that each individual supply pipe may be withdrawn from the system and/or replaced after construction of the pipework containment system is complete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Petro Technik Limited
    Inventors: Jan Ageheim, Glyn A. V. Owens, Wayne Clifton Augustus Wright
  • Patent number: 6968854
    Abstract: A manhole base or liner for directing the flow of liquid from a manhole inlet opening positioned in one of a plurality of possible locations in a manhole side wall to a manhole outlet opening in the manhole side wall, and a manhole having the base or liner. The base or liner includes a perimeter, an upper surface extending to the perimeter; and a liquid flow path formed in the upper surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Munro Concrete Products Ltd.
    Inventors: John Mokrzycki, John Munro