Strainer Patents (Class 4/292)
  • Publication number: 20110094021
    Abstract: A disposable strainer for drain holes such as in sinks, bathtubs and floor drain holes. The strainer is relatively thin and has wide edges relative to currently existing strainers. The strainer includes a perforated, concave middle part. The middle part of the strainer is attached to the strainer's edges by means of a circumferential rim that can be stretched and enables to pull the middle part downwards to create a concavity into which the waste accumulates. The strainer is made from a flexible material, which can be folded and which adheres to the sink or floor upon contact with water, such as aluminum foil, pergament paper or regular paper.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2010
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Inventor: Sharon Ychie
  • Patent number: 7900289
    Abstract: The present invention provides a magnetic sink strainer with at least one magnet securely attached to the strainer, to create a magnetic field. The invention also provides a magnetic sink strainer made of a magnetized material to provide a magnetic field. The magnetic sink strainer is firmly placed over a standard sink drain and functions to capture and retain objects that are attracted by a force as a result of being subjected to the magnetic field. This prevents such objects from accidentally being discarded into the sink drain. The magnetic sink strainer also includes at least one slit to enable fluids and other non-magnetic substances to easily and rapidly flow down to the sink drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Bel-Art Products
    Inventors: David Landsberger, Francis Gomes, Morton Milden
  • Patent number: 7887697
    Abstract: An aromatic drain device comprising a perforate retaining device defining a volume for retaining an aromatic media therein, the retaining device releasably secured to a removable drain cover and positioned to extend below the drain cover into the cavity defined by the floor drain wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Inventor: Thomas W. Worth
  • Patent number: 7856680
    Abstract: A shower drainage outlet for a shower tub in an aircraft is stated, which shower drainage outlet comprises three parts that can be displaced, angled or rotated in relation to one another. In this way horizontal, vertical and angular tolerances can be compensated for. Furthermore, the shower drainage outlet is designed to be inserted through an opening in the floor region of the aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Marc Scheel, Simone Guttau, Gunnar Heuer
  • Patent number: 7854029
    Abstract: A water drain assembly includes an embedding ring and a seal washer, such that when a force is applied to press onto a water drain body, the deformation of hooks disposed at a lower edge of the embedding ring latches the edge of a drain through hole to abut the water drain body and fix the water drain body in position, and a rubber seal ring and a pressing member are installed into an internal hole of the water drain body, and a jam-on member is pressed into the internal hole of the water drain body, so as to press the pressing member down to a predetermined position to deform the seal ring, and achieve a tight pressing relation with a drainage pipe inserted therein to achieve a seal waterproof relation between the drainage pipe and the water drain body, and complete the overall installation of the water drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Inventor: Ti-Nien Shih
  • Patent number: 7820041
    Abstract: A uniquely designed drain cover for swimming pools, spas, whirlpools and the like that is non-flat and clover shaped containing three or more “leaves” that provides for strengthened rigidity, increased protection against hair and body entrapment and that is connected to the sump through ribs that run across the body of the drain cover that allow for securing the drain cover to the sump through these ribs in addition to the perimeter providing for greater anti-deflection properties and anti-vortexing properties. Apertures found on the surface of the cover and along the perimeter add to the anti-deflection and anti-vortexing properties of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Waterways Plastics, Inc.
    Inventors: Brooks Hilton, M Reza Mirzaei, Frank Hinjosa
  • Patent number: 7799216
    Abstract: Drain trap assembly for separating sediment from discharged wastewater including a conduit with a first upper inlet portion and a second upper outlet portion. Between the inlet and outlet is located a lower bend portion. Interrupting the lower bend portion is a third conduit portion including a cup closure for sediment accumulation out of the wastewater pathway. Affixed to the cup closure and extending generally upwardly within the assembly and across the wastewater flow is a strainer including at least one plate with through-holes sized to reject particulate sediment and other solids of a predetermined size. Another strainer embodiment includes fibers affixed to the closure and extending across the wastewater flow. A strainer support leg may be concave to guide or deflect sediment-laden wastewater downwardly to the accumulation area and may include at least one wastewater flow aperture. Closure removal automatically withdraws the strainer, offering ready access to accumulated sediment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Inventor: Michael Gurmu
  • Publication number: 20100206969
    Abstract: A sink drain strainer and sink straining method that does not require electricity or installation permitting a user to manually cut, grind, push, or punch clogging food debris through the drainage holes so that it will be small enough to safely pass through the plumbing system without causing clogs. A sink strainer for processing a solid organic debris object, includes a sink strainer basket, sized for overlying and covering a drain, the sink strainer basket including a plurality of drainage holes retaining the solid organic debris object and inhibiting the solid organic debris object from entering into the drain; and a manually-actuable debris processor, coupled to the basket, for interacting with the drainage holes to resize the solid organic debris object into smaller debris objects sized to enter into the drain from the basket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2010
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Inventor: Finn A. Strong
  • Patent number: 7736499
    Abstract: A disposable drain strainer is removably received within a drain opening having an adjacent drain rim substrate. The strainer has a strainer portion, a ring portion, and a seal release mechanism. Top and bottom surfaces of the ring portion are adapted to sealingly engage the drain rim substrate. The seal release mechanism is integral with the ring portion, and facilitates release of the seal so that the strainer can be readily be removed from the sink and discarded. In one embodiment, the seal release mechanism comprises a tab. In another embodiment, the seal release mechanism comprises a press-release component, wherein the ring portion has arced ring walls having convex and concave configurations. During sealing engagement with the drain rim, the ring portion is in the convex configuration. Pressure applied to the ring portion causes it to move to the concave configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Inventors: Jessica Chong, Haion Won
  • Publication number: 20100011494
    Abstract: A filter for preventing hair from becoming clogged in a drain which comprises a flat annular strainer and a magnetic rim on the periphery of said flat annular strainer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventor: Ethel J. Dees
  • Publication number: 20100000011
    Abstract: The invention is a plumbing apparatus adapted with a removable filter container, which minimizes clogging and enables ease of maintenance by implementing a stopper without a guide but with a filtering container coupled to a pivot rod configured to regulate fluid flow. In one embodiment, the plumbing apparatus comprises of a stopper, a flange and filtering container, coupled to a horizontal pivot that regulates drainage of a basin, for example a sink or a bathtub. The plumbing apparatus minimizes clogging by catching the debris in the filter container. Furthermore the plumbing apparatus minimizes costs by enabling ease of replacement and maintenance. The top may be simply removed from a support member, which enables the removal of the filtering container, allowing for simple maintenance or replacement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventor: RODRIGO ANGARITA
  • Publication number: 20100000012
    Abstract: A drain fitting comprising a cage having a plurality of apertures extending through the cage; a conduit having an inlet and an outlet, the conduit extending at least partially through the cage; and a base cap attached to the cage, the outlet located within the base cap wherein the conduit includes an internal surface that extends from the inlet to the outlet, the internal surface increasing the velocity of the water substantially the length of the internal surface as the water passes from the inlet to the outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Applicant: TRILAUR PTY LTD.
    Inventor: Lawrence James Evans
  • Patent number: 7625488
    Abstract: A unitary plumbing apparatus is disclosed that serves as a drain waste water strainer trap for sinks and other plumbing fixtures as well as a filter or strainer for the exiting waste water to keep the drain pipe free flowing or to recover valuables lost into drain lines. The filter or strainer can be removed from the apparatus for cleaning by removing a cap at the bottom of the apparatus. The cap can be removed by hand. The top and bottom sections of the body of one embodiment of the apparatus are mutually rotatable for convenience in connecting inlet and outlet apparatus conduits to standing plumbing drain piping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Inventor: Dale M Blackburn
  • Patent number: 7618532
    Abstract: An aromatic drain device comprising a perforate retaining device defining a volume for retaining an aromatic media therein, the retaining device releasably secured to a removable drain cover and positioned to extend below the drain cover into the cavity defined by the floor drain wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas W. Worth
  • Publication number: 20090271920
    Abstract: A coil or spring device in the shape of a cone or funnel with a decreasing radius and decreasing pitch that can be inserted in a drain to trap hair and other foreign matter that would otherwise cause a clogging condition in waste water drain pipes and plumbing systems. The device is preferably biodegradable and is designed to fit in a wide variety of drain pipe diameters and to be removably positionable to allow for easy inspection, replacement, and disposal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2009
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventor: Gregory R. Viggiano
  • Publication number: 20090172877
    Abstract: A waste water insert has a cylindrical wall surrounding a vertical cylindrical bore. A horizontal flange extends outwardly from the upper end of the wall and has a lip formed on its outer periphery. The horizontal flange of the waste water insert is super-imposed over the horizontal flange of a waste water strainer located in a bathtub, sink or the like. The cylindrical wall of the insert extends downwardly through the cylindrical wall of the waste water strainer with the two walls being spaced from each other by virtue of the cylindrical wall of the insert having a smaller diameter than that of the strainer. One or more grooves are within the cylindrical wall of the insert and receive resilient rings that engage the cylindrical wall of the strainer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Publication number: 20090151060
    Abstract: An apparatus for entrapping foreign matter and debris in drains is disclosed. The apparatus has a bristle holding device, bristles and an optionally detachable bottom base. The apparatus can be easily removed, cleaned, and then placed back into the drain for additional use, or the apparatus may be discarded and replaced with a new apparatus. The apparatus can be used in multiple drain types including pop-up, plunger, push-pull tub sink or shower drains and stationary drains, such as those found in a shower. The apparatus may be sold as a kit or as a replacement part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventors: Edward L. Zubillaga, Patrice Ballew-Zubillaga
  • Patent number: 7531088
    Abstract: A drain trap assembly for separating sediment from wastewater released from kitchen, bath or washroom appliance such as a sink or tub including a conduit with a first upper inlet portion and second upper outlet portion. Between the inlet and outlet is located a lower bend portion. Interrupting the lower bend portion is a third conduit portion including a cup closure for sediment accumulation area out of the wastewater pathway. Affixed to the closure cup and extending generally upwardly within the drain trap assembly and across the wastewater flow is a strainer in the form of at least one plate including through-holes sized to reject particulate sediment and other solids of a predetermined size. A second embodiment of the strainer takes the form of a mass of fibers affixed to the closure and extending across the wastewater flow. Closure removal automatically withdraws the strainer, offering ready access to accumulated sediment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Gurmu
  • Patent number: 7517452
    Abstract: A floor waste (10) including a filter basket (16) having a magnet (18). The magnet (18) attracts a movable valve member (27) upwardly from a seat (22) to allow liquid to pass through the seat (22). When the basket (15) is removed the movable valve member (27) closes the seat (22). In one embodiment the valve member (27) includes a valve disk 29 that prevents the flow of liquid through the seat (22) when engaged therewith, while in another embodiment the disk (29) has a series of passages (31) that permits the flow of liquid through the seat when the disk (29) is engaged with the seat (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Speciality Plumbling Supplies Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Raymond G. Chapman, David W. Creasy
  • Patent number: 7504024
    Abstract: An apparatus includes: a commercial kitchen sink having a drain; a trough below the sink for transporting effluent positioned such that there is an air gap between it and the drain; and a plurality of selectively positionable markers on the trough for indicating positions for strainers to collect solids in effluent discharging form the drain. A method of removing solids from an effluent flow from a kitchen sink having a drain hole is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: Thermaco, Inc.
    Inventors: William C. Batten, Bruce W. Kyles
  • Publication number: 20090049594
    Abstract: The present invention provides a magnetic sink strainer with at least one magnet securely attached to the strainer, to create a magnetic field. The invention also provides a magnetic sink strainer made of a magnetized material to provide a magnetic field. The magnetic sink strainer is firmly placed over a standard sink drain and functions to capture and retain objects that are attracted by a force as a result of being subjected to the magnetic field. This prevents such objects from accidentally being discarded into the sink drain. The magnetic sink strainer also includes at least one slit to enable fluids and other non-magnetic substances to easily and rapidly flow down to the sink drain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventors: David Landsberger, Francis Gomes, Morton Milden
  • Publication number: 20090025128
    Abstract: A disposable drain strainer is removably received within a drain opening having an adjacent drain rim substrate. The strainer has a strainer portion, a ring portion, and a seal release mechanism. Top and bottom surfaces of the ring portion are adapted to sealingly engage the drain rim substrate. The seal release mechanism is integral with the ring portion, and facilitates release of the seal so that the strainer can be readily be removed from the sink and discarded. In one embodiment, the seal release mechanism comprises a tab. In another embodiment, the seal release mechanism comprises a press-release component, wherein the ring portion has arced ring walls having convex and concave configurations. During sealing engagement with the drain rim, the ring portion is in the convex configuration. Pressure applied to the ring portion causes it to move to the concave configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventors: Jessica Chong, Haion Won
  • Publication number: 20090007321
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a drainage apparatus for a sink, in which it is possible to drain wash water rapidly without having residue substances such as foreign substances and the like caught thereon, and prevent leakage of malodor in advance, thereby achieving excellent cleanliness, facilitating an operation and maintenance of the drainage apparatus due to its simple configuration and structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Inventor: Young Boung Kang
  • Patent number: 7467425
    Abstract: A drain cover may include a base, a medial member extending upwardly from the base, an outer peripheral sidewall extending upwardly from the base, and a collar extending outwardly from the outer peripheral sidewall. The base may have a medial portion, an outer peripheral portion, a first passageway formed in the medial portion, and a plurality of second passageways formed between the medial portion and the outer peripheral portion. The medial member may have a grip portion. The collar may extend outwardly from the top of the outer peripheral sidewall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Inventor: Brent E. Harmes
  • Publication number: 20080307573
    Abstract: The invention resolves the choking problem of the existing sink strainers. The new design has a water outlet and a residues settlement area. See FIG. 7 for the concept design. The water outlet is designed at above the surface of the sink and the settlement area is at below the surface. The residues will eventually settle down in the settlement area when the water flows through the strainer. The water outlet will not be covered by the residues as it is above the surface. Having these two features in one will prevent the sinks from choking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2005
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventor: Yeong Cherng Ho
  • Publication number: 20080295236
    Abstract: A floor sink strainer arrangement adapted to fasten to a receptacle body of a floor sink. The strainer arrangement includes a strainer having a body and defining a slot therein for receiving a fastener, and a fastener arrangement attached to the strainer. The strainer is adapted to be received within the receptacle body of the floor sink. The fastener arrangement includes a support base and a longitudinal extending member attached to the base and extending therefrom, wherein the base is adapted to be secured to a drain pipe when the strainer is received within the receptacle body of the floor sink.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: ZURN INDUSTRIES, LLC
    Inventors: Ben Eichler, Douglas R. Wroblewski, Joseph Tripodi
  • Publication number: 20080271232
    Abstract: A drain cover is fabricated with a plurality of apertures in patterns of varying shapes. The cover is formed as a plate, suitable for installation proximate to a drain, and capable of bearing sufficient weight, the latter a function of the plate's size and intended use. The construction and arrangement of the plate, particularly the apertures, is such that the cover is operative to protect the drain from clogging, protect an individual near the drain from slips and falls, and still effectively and efficiently pass fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventor: James Edward Self
  • Patent number: 7442296
    Abstract: A disposable drain strainer is removably received within a drain opening having an adjacent drain rim substrate. The strainer has a strainer portion, a ring portion, and a seal release mechanism. Top and bottom surfaces of the ring portion are adapted to sealingly engage the drain rim substrate. The seal release mechanism is integral with the ring portion, and facilitates release of the seal so that the strainer can be readily be removed from the sink and discarded. In one aspect, the seal release mechanism comprises a tab. In another aspect, the seal release mechanism comprises a press-release component, wherein the ring portion has arced ring walls having convex and concave configurations. During sealing engagement with the drain rim, the ring portion is in the convex configuration. Pressure applied to the ring portion causes it to move to the concave configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Inventors: Jessica Chong, Haion Won
  • Patent number: 7325694
    Abstract: A strainer is provided to facilitate the washing of an item in a conventional sink. The strainer includes a flexible sheet having a plurality of apertures extending therethrough. Handles project from the outer periphery of the flexible sheet to move the flexible sheet between a first position wherein the sheet is generally planer and a second position wherein the sheet forms a bag. A plurality of spacers extends from and are spaced along a first face of the sheet to space the sheet from the surface of the sink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Inventor: Richard D. Bushey
  • Publication number: 20070272604
    Abstract: A disposable drain strainer is removably received within a drain opening having an adjacent drain rim substrate. The strainer has a strainer portion, a ring portion, and a seal release mechanism. Top and bottom surfaces of the ring portion are adapted to sealingly engage the drain rim substrate. The seal release mechanism is integral with the ring portion, and facilitates release of the seal so that the strainer can be readily be removed from the sink and discarded. In one aspect, the seal release mechanism comprises a tab. In another aspect, the seal release mechanism comprises a press-release component, wherein the ring portion has arced ring walls having convex and concave configurations. During sealing engagement with the drain rim, the ring portion is in the convex configuration. Pressure applied to the ring portion causes it to move to the concave configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2006
    Publication date: November 29, 2007
    Inventors: Jessica Chong, Haion Won
  • Patent number: 7178675
    Abstract: A drain water filter assembly for filtering debris laden liquids. The filter assembly has an apertured filter holder constructed and arranged to be placed into a basin, tub or sink. A removable and disposable filter is provided for placement within and securement to the filter holder structure. The filter holder has an elevated bottom portion which permits debris to be filtered and the filtered drain water to be dispensed through the apertures in the elevated portions of the filter holder bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Inventor: John C. Votel
  • Patent number: 7178179
    Abstract: A drain for swimming pools, spas, whirlpool baths, etc., includes a plurality of first orifices in communication with corresponding serpentine passageways to minimize hair or a body part from covering and entering the first orifices to a degree sufficient to entrap a bather. A plurality of second orifices independent of the first orifices and in fluid communication with one another through a peripheral passageway provide a flow of water from the peripheral passageway into the serpentine passageways to create an alternate water inflow path and reduce the pressure differential and possible entrapment that might occur should a body part or hair come in contact with or enter the first orifices. Moreover, a plurality of ridges are attendant the first orifices to reduce the likelihood of direct contact with the first orifices by a body part or hair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Paramount Leisure Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven R. Barnes
  • Patent number: 7128834
    Abstract: A drain strainer for debris is located in drain line having a side outlet extending to a drain line flow space. The strainer has a body bounded by sidewalls contiguous with an annular forward end wall for abutting with the drain flow space to prevent the passage of debris. An array of apertures in the strainer body, which is hemispherical or planner with upstanding sidewalls, is sufficient in number and size to maintain water flow while extracting and retaining debris occurring in the drain line flow space. A closure assembly is formed by a closure plate that supports a seal acted on by a retainer for forming a fluid tight seal with the side outlet opening of the drain line segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Inventor: Robert N. Davenport
  • Patent number: 7011746
    Abstract: A rainwater surface drain for use in roof drains comprises a substantially funnel-shaped reservatory for water to be drained and covered with an upper strainer or grating member downstream of which an eddy preventing insert means in the form of a flat grate member is disposed at a short distance upstream of a discharge outlet on the bottom side of the reservatory which is connected with an outlet pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Ernst Zürn GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Antonio Böckmann
  • Patent number: 6932899
    Abstract: A pool skimmer basket kit for cleaning pool water is provided, which includes: a first skimmer basket having a peripheral wall portion and a bottom wall portion, each wall portion of the first skimmer basket defining therein a plurality of perforations of a first size; and a second skimmer basket having a peripheral wall portion and a bottom wall portion, each wall portion of the second skimmer basket defining therein a plurality of perforations of a second size. The pool skimmer basket kit of the invention may further include a third skimmer basket, the third skimmer basket having a peripheral wall portion and a bottom wall portion, each wall portion of the third skimmer basket defining therein a plurality of perforations of a third size. Each skimmer basket has a different color to one another for facilitating identification by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Stealth Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: Jonathan J. Bonelli, Matt Cowdell, Mitchell Saccoccio
  • Patent number: 6925964
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) and a device (30) are provided for catching pet hair during the process of bathing a pet in a bathtub (12) or sink-like structure. Typically the apparatus (10) is comprised of a net (18) having a selected mesh size which is stretched over the bottom of the bathtub (12) and held in place with hooks (26) attached to the bottom of the bathtub 12 via integral suction cups (24). The device (30) combines functional features of the apparatus (10) into a screen (38) for catching pet hair which is held rigid in a frame (32) made of a pliable material which engages and grips the bottom of the bathtub (12) and allows water to drain out to the drain (22) of the bathtub (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Inventor: Stephanie Jeffery
  • Patent number: 6915814
    Abstract: A transparent pipe trap with means of enhancing the biodegradation of sink effluents in a household sink uses a screen located “downstream” from the trap to deflect valuable items into the trap. The trap is easily drained and easily removed, for convenient retrieval of valuable items, such as rings, which are lost down a sink or other drain. The invention also promotes the biodegradation of sink effluents through time-release biodegradation substances in the cup and/or coated upon the screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Inventor: Dara Cheng
  • Patent number: 6859950
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for drain strainer installation and maintenance are disclosed. In one embodiment, a drain strainer assembly includes a housing having an interior chamber and defines an opening leading to the interior chamber. Inlet and outlet ports are disposed through the housing, and at least one coupling device couples the housing to a support wall such that the opening is at least approximately parallel with the support wall. The assembly further includes a strainer member positioned in the interior chamber at least partially between the inlet and outlet ports, and a door member covering the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: John C. Rood
  • Patent number: 6817043
    Abstract: A replacement drain cover apparatus for a swimming pool drain to protect a swimmer from entrapment of the swimmer's body or hair and having a drain sump adapter ring for securing means into a pool drain sump and an installation plate for releasably securing onto the adapter ring and for positioning the adapter ring in a pool drain sump for securing the adapter ring in the correct position in the pool drain sump for a drain cover. An anti-entrapment drain cover having a size substantially greater than the pool drain sump is secured to the adapter ring to cover the drain sump and has sufficient cross sectional area so that the velocity of flow under and though the drain cover at any point on the drain cover even if partially blocked by a swimmer is at a rate to protect a swimmer from entrapment of the swimmer's body and hair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventor: Leif Alexander Zars
  • Patent number: 6802962
    Abstract: An easy access deck drain cover assembly with a strainer plate having a removable hinge at one end and a removable locking mechanism opposite the hinge where the locking mechanism includes a J-bolt coupled to the strainer plate and means for engaging the bottom of the J-bolt to secure the strainer plate in a closed position. The strainer plate cover remains connected to the deck drain even when opened so that the deck drain may be serviced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Albert E. Browne, III, Jeffrey W. Gibbs
  • Patent number: 6735791
    Abstract: The disposal adapter comprises a seating ring, which when appropriately seated and fixed within a neck of a larger sink flange of a disposal, allows for engagement thereto of a smaller splash guard, eliminating the need to disassemble the IN-SINK-ERATOR disposal unit with the large sink flange for replacement of the splash guard thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Inventors: Var Lordahl, Scott H. Koepsel
  • Patent number: 6699606
    Abstract: A sanitary ware comprises a sanitary ware body and a surface glaze layer provided on the sanitary ware body. The surface glaze layer has a center line average roughness Ra of less than 0.07 &mgr;m as measured with a stylus type surface roughness tester according to JIS B 0651-1996.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Toto Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsuyoshi Machida, Koichi Hayashi, Hirotaka Ishibashi, Tomoyasu Ichiki, Masaaki Ito, Masami Ando, Atsushi Kitamura, Toshihiro Aoshima, Katsuhiro Kawakami, Satoshi Horiuchi, Makoto Hayakawa
  • Patent number: 6687925
    Abstract: A floor drain assembly includes a barrel assembly having a radially outwardly flared drain area surrounded by an outer ledge for supporting the outer periphery of a grate covering the drain area. Radially inwardly of the ledge are a plurality of supports integral with the barrel assembly and/or grate for providing additional support for the span of the grate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Oatey Co.
    Inventor: Michael W. Minnick
  • Patent number: 6615417
    Abstract: An anti-entrapment, anti-vortex swimming pool and/or wading pool drain cover having a discus or wheel-like configuration with a relatively large radius, substantially larger than the radius of a pool drain which the drain cover is intended to cover, so that the disk extends out over the pool floor or other surface having the drain, radially beyond the drain, the disk carrying beneath it a plurality of evenly spaced radial ribs which define between them channels opening at the periphery; the ribs support the cover on the surface in which the drain is located so that the disk periphery stands off that surface for water flow intake beneath through the side inlets; the ribs and channels control water flow beneath the disk so that water flows relatively evenly in the channels from the periphery and then into the drain without potential for pool user entrapment and substantially without vortex creation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: World Wide Sports, LLC
    Inventor: Harry W. Newhard
  • Patent number: 6609257
    Abstract: A basin generally for use in health-care industries for debridement and/or irrigation of wound areas. The basin is best used for treatment of wounds on extremities and comprises a stable basin having contoured seats on opposing side walls and a filtering device to prevent clogging of the drainage hole and tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Fiore Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel R. O'Geary
  • Publication number: 20030146144
    Abstract: A drain water filter assembly for filtering debris laden liquids. The filter assembly has an apertured filter holder constructed and arranged to be placed into a basin, tub or sink. A removable and disposable filter is provided for placement within and securement to the filter holder structure. The filter holder has an elevated bottom portion which permits debris to be filtered and the filtered drain water to be dispensed through the apertures in the elevated portions of the filter holder bottom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventor: John C. Votel
  • Patent number: 6601242
    Abstract: A combination flexible strainer and plug for use in conjunction with a drain opening of a plumbing fixture. The strainer comprising a substantially cylindrical portion constructed and arranged to extendingly engage the drain opening. The strainer having a bottom portion engaged to a lowermost portion of the substantially cylindrical portion, the bottom portion having a plurality of openings therethrough. The strainer having an annular ring engaged to an uppermost portion of the substantially cylindrical portion and outwardly extending therefrom, the annular ring constructed and arranged to form a seal with a portion of the plumbing fixture immediately adjacent to the drain opening. The plug comprising an upper surface, the upper surface and a lower surface. The upper surface having at least one projection, the at least one projection providing a grasping surface by which the plug may inserted into and removed from within the substantially cylindrically shaped portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Inventor: Gary H. Rebischke
  • Patent number: 6588029
    Abstract: A safety cover for swimming pool drains for dispersing suction pressure and preventing a person's hair or other body parts from becoming entangled and otherwise preventing injury or death. A generally dome-shaped drain cover is removably affixed to a new and/or existing suction drain using a universal mounting mechanism. The drain cover is preferably circular and includes a peripheral lip, a sidewall, and a segmented dome-shaped top portion. The peripheral lip functions to form a seal with the bottom surface of the pool surrounding the drain, while the sidewall defines a plurality of openings therein and the segmented dome-shaped top portion defines a plurality of segments each of which include a plurality of openings. Each opening incorporates screen mesh material for allowing water to flow therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: Paul M. Mullings
  • Patent number: 6567996
    Abstract: A lock for holding a drain screen in place on the end of a drainpipe has a bolt passing through the screen and screwed into a lateral bore of a cross brace within the drainpipe. The cross brace has an elongated body with a longitudinal bore having left and right threaded rods for easy insertion and the bolt has a non-standard head to thwart removal thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: Peter C. Rao
  • Patent number: 6548162
    Abstract: Sanitary wares having a controlled surface are disclosed which are less likely to be stained or soiled and/or possess excellent gloss. The first sanitary ware comprises a sanitary ware body and a surface glaze layer provided on the sanitary ware body, wherein the surface glaze layer has a center line average roughness Ra of less than 0.07 &mgr;m. This sanitary ware is advantageous in that stains or soils are much less likely to be adhered to the surface thereof and, even when adhered to the surface thereof, can be removed by a weak water stream. The second sanitary ware comprises a sanitary ware body and a surface glaze layer provided on the sanitary ware body, wherein the surface glaze layer has a kurtosis Rku of less than 2.70. This sanitary ware advantageously possesses excellent surface gloss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Toto Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsuyoshi Machida, Koichi Hayashi, Hirotaka Ishibashi, Tomoyasu Ichiki, Masaaki Ito, Masami Ando, Atsushi Kitamura, Toshihiro Aoshima, Katsuhiro Kawakami, Satoshi Horiuchi, Makoto Hayakawa