With Drain Patents (Class 4/650)
  • Patent number: 9115737
    Abstract: Attachment part or trim part for vehicles are typically provided with a plurality of fastening points of which several are provided with through-holes for receiving aligning or fastening devices, in particular welded bolts, screws or rivets. Some of the fastening points are additionally designed to be movable in a premounted situation in a latching manner between a plurality of predetermined positions relative to the aligning or fastening devices used, in order to permit thereby an adjustment of the attachment part or trim part relative to the attachment point on a vehicle. In order to achieve the simplest possible design, it is proposed that the positions are predetermined by the internal contour of the through-holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Assignee: Decoma (Germany) GmbH
    Inventor: Marc Huttenlocher
  • Patent number: 9015876
    Abstract: A waste water insert has a wall surrounding a vertical 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 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Patent number: 9009885
    Abstract: A modular waste drain can includes at least two of the following separate modules that can be selectively attached and detached from each other: an inlet assembly, an outlet assembly and a knife gate valve. An additional module can be provided by a valve guard assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: T & S Brass and Bronze Works, Inc.
    Inventors: Gene Earl Faasse, Jeffrey H. Baldwin, Richard Aloysius Fahey, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20150074900
    Abstract: Food preparation sinks are disclosed which have an integral raised work area that is rinsed by an automatic system. Food waste or the like present in that area can be washed into a sump above a drain, and the weight of the waste and water in the sump is enough to automatically drive them through a baffle to a garbage disposal, without requiring the baffle to be manually opened. An automatic controller system coordinates water flow and garbage disposal operation, and the water supply can be linked to the sink below the sink rim to save counter top space. In some forms multiple rinsing nozzles are provided which pulse in altering fashion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventors: Steven R. Aykens, Shawn J. Booth, Thomas J. Bostedt, Jonathan P. Loeck
  • Publication number: 20140366263
    Abstract: Sinks have a basin and associated lid to open and close the basin based on desired function. The lid is useable as a counter space and concealer for sink internals. The lid can be moved in a variety of ways based on desired function, potentially without need for external attachment, structure, and/or volume for lid function. The lid may be configured to match surrounding surfaces both functionally and aesthetically. Sinks are useable with drains, hinges and other attaching joints, faucets or other water sources, countertops alongside the sink, holes and other drains in lids to permit wetbar and counter usage in a closed position, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2013
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventors: Clifford E. Thompson, Clifford R. Thompson
  • Patent number: 8898828
    Abstract: Food preparation sinks are disclosed which have an integral raised work area that is rinsed by an automatic system. Food waste or the like present in that area can be washed into a sump above a drain, and the weight of the waste and water in the sump is enough to automatically drive them through a baffle to a garbage disposal, without requiring the baffle to be manually opened. An automatic controller system coordinates water flow and garbage disposal operation, and the water supply can be linked to the sink below the sink rim to save counter top space. In some forms multiple rinsing nozzles are provided which pulse in altering fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Steven R. Aykens, Shawn J. Booth, Thomas J. Bostedt, Jonathan P. Loeck
  • Patent number: 8893321
    Abstract: A drain system includes a basin and a drain, where a first one of the basin and the drain comprises at least two substantially inflexible protrusions and a second one of the basin and the drain forms at least two apertures. The protrusions and apertures form male-female connections that facilitate positioning and anchoring of the drain in the basin. Further, stoppers/strainer and ball valves for limiting or ceasing water flow through a drain are disclosed. The stoppers/strainers and quarter turn valves may be switch-activated and moved into position by electricity, water pressure, air pressure and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Delmonico
  • Publication number: 20140259380
    Abstract: One embodiment of the application relates to a sink assembly including a sink and a drain cover. The sink includes a basin and a projection provided in a bottom wall of the basin. The projection includes a first portion and a second portion that define a cavity and a drain opening. The first portion extends from the bottom wall at a first orientation and the second portion extends from the first portion at a second orientation that is different than the first orientation. The drain cover is installed into the cavity of the projection. The drain cover includes a base and at least one leg extending downward from a bottom surface of the base. The base has a top surface that is substantially coplanar with an upper surface of the bottom wall, and has an outer periphery that extends beyond an outer periphery of the drain opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Niels J. Eilmus, Jason R. Miller
  • Patent number: 8719976
    Abstract: The invention concerns equipment for use at a carwash. The equipment can be used to wash any vehicle, as well as boats (on trailers) and anything else that can be brought into its vicinity. The equipment comprises a wash stand incorporating a basin sized to receive a car washing sponge. The equipment has an inlet valve to fill the basin, an outlet valve to empty the basin, and a control system to perform a wash sequence as follows: closing the outlet valve; opening the inlet valve to selectively fill the basin with water or a mixture of water and cleaning agent; then, periodically opening the inlet valve to top up the basin with water or a mixture of water and cleaning agent; finally, opening the outlet valve to empty the basin. All the steps of the wash sequence are performed according to a predetermined timing schedule.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Federal Oil Australia Pty Limited
    Inventor: John Mirabito
  • Patent number: 8677522
    Abstract: Food preparation sinks are disclosed which have an integral raised work area that is rinsed by an automatic system. Food waste or the like present in that area can be washed into a sump above a drain, and the weight of the waste and water in the sump is enough to automatically drive them through a baffle to a garbage disposal, without requiring the baffle to be manually opened. An automatic controller system coordinates water flow and garbage disposal operation, and the water supply can be linked to the sink below the sink rim to save counter top space. In some forms multiple rinsing nozzles are provided which pulse in altering fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Steven R. Aykens, Shawn J. Booth, Thomas J. Bostedt, Jonathan P. Loeck
  • Patent number: 8607376
    Abstract: A waste water insert has a wall surrounding a vertical 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 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Patent number: 8572773
    Abstract: A method and system for selectively providing a contemporary sink or basin with a cascading water flow over the inside surface of the sink or basin, in addition to a flow of wash water into the basin itself. The sink or basin is provided in two parts, connected about the drain passage. Wash water is flowed into the bowl from above, and cascade water is introduced into a reservoir between the lower, base part and an upper, insert part. A narrow gap between the lower and upper parts lets water flow over the edge of the insert and along the sides of the basin, washing away detritus falling there such as toothpaste and shaving lather. Temperature and volume of the water are controlled for instance by a first valve, and a second valve controls flow into the basin from the faucet and/or from the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: Keith K. Clayton
  • Patent number: 8522800
    Abstract: The invention in one variation is a specialized tub-like apparatus for cleaning sponges. The apparatus is nestable and can be seated in the mouth of a bucket. The apparatus has a ribbed flat bottom, a flanged quasi-circuline tapered side wall contiguous with a pair of elevated shelves with level control holes that establish the water level and flow rate, and a garden hose fastening element that includes two wedged shaped holes that are orthogonal. There is an indentation with drain holes in the center bottom that disburses flow of the incoming water outwardly. The apparatus has a second inward deviation that provides an access port to the interior of the bucket. The access port is large enough to accommodate a drain line for the bucket and wiring. The bottom has several tapered legs with annular drain holes that enable the apparatus to drain dry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: Rob Parker
  • Patent number: 8424123
    Abstract: A sink flange for use in conjunction with a sink drain. The flange includes a flange body and a flange lip. The flange body is substantially vertical having a top end and a bottom end. The bottom end defines a flange passage therethrough. The flange lip is annular having a top side and a bottom side, which radially extends out of the top end of the flange body. The flange passage and flange lip are at least coated with a polymer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Opella, LLC
    Inventor: Ron Svensson
  • Publication number: 20130047332
    Abstract: The invention concerns equipment for use at a carwash. The equipment can be used to wash any vehicle, as well as boats (on trailers) and anything else that can be brought into its vicinity. The equipment comprises a wash stand incorporating a basin sized to receive a car washing sponge. The equipment has an inlet valve to fill the basin, an outlet valve to empty the basin, and a control system to perform a wash sequence as follows: closing the outlet valve; opening the inlet valve to selectively fill the basin with water or a mixture of water and cleaning agent; then, periodically opening the inlet valve to top up the basin with water or a mixture of water and cleaning agent; finally, opening the outlet valve to empty the basin. All the steps of the wash sequence are performed according to a predetermined timing schedule.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: Federal Oil Austalia Pty Limited
    Inventor: John Mirabito
  • Publication number: 20130031719
    Abstract: Motorcycle gas tank sinks and methods of their construction are disclosed. In one embodiment, a sink includes a basin and a shell. The basin has a drain area for discharging liquid from the basin, the shell has a motorcycle gas tank configuration, and the basin extends downwardly from an upper side of the motorcycle gas tank configuration. Another sink includes a basin and a shell. The shell has an outer surface simulating a motorcycle gas tank, and the basin extends downwardly from an upper side of the shell for receiving liquid. Still another sink includes a basin and a motorcycle gas tank altered to receive the basin therein. The basin is received in the motorcycle gas tank. Each of the various sinks may include a faucet for supplying water to the respective basins.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Inventor: Roland D. Ritchel
  • Publication number: 20120255117
    Abstract: Sinks and drains for sinks permitting the attachment of the drain to the sink such that the drain is substantially disposed below the top surface of the sink basin, and such that there is no discernable separation between the base of the sink basin and the drain when viewed from above the sink. A method of making a sink such that there is no discernable separation between the base of the sink basin and the drain when viewed from above the sink.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Applicant: Elkay Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Daniel Keating Childs, Shawn Daly, Jonathan Chee Yeen Chong
  • Publication number: 20120151672
    Abstract: A sink is described herein which includes a basin including an upper rim having a back portion, and an interior surface having a sloped surface portion and a bottom surface portion, wherein the sloped surface portion extends from the back portion of the upper rim into the bottom surface portion; a faucet member extending upwardly from an upper portion of the sloped surface; and a drain opening extending through the bottom surface portion, wherein the faucet member is positioned such that liquid from the faucet member flows onto the sloped surface portion into the bottom surface portion and into the drain opening. A method for preventing splashing of a liquid from a sink is also provided herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Applicant: AS IP Holdco, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Christophe Bucher
  • Publication number: 20110296605
    Abstract: An oral hygiene station (10) for children has a portable, hand held body (12), and a suction cup (26) for releasably mounting the body to a vanity unit. The body (12) has a basin (16) and a lid (18) hingedly connected thereto for opening and closing the basin. The basin has slots (20) each of which can receive therethrough the shaft of a toothbrush. The basin also has a mouth wash cup holder (22). The lid (18) has a mirror (24) supported on its inside surface so that a child using the oral hygiene station (10) can see themselves in the mirror when the lid is opened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventor: Andrew John Kerr
  • Publication number: 20110225726
    Abstract: A basin for use in at least one of irrigation, debridement, cleaning and other procedures on a subject's appendage includes a flexible body including one or more walls. A first wall can define an appendage contour, which can flex under the weight of the appendage, providing a comfortable seat that conforms to the subject's appendage. The body can be a monolithic, one-piece structure constructed from a closed cell foam. The body can include integral stiffening structures that enhance its rigidity yet still enable the basin to be flexible when adjacent another appendage or body portion. The basin can include a sloped bottom to direct fluids toward an outlet port for draining, and baffles projecting from the bottom. The basin can include a reticulated foam insert positioned adjacent the bottom, on the baffles, where the insert minimizes splash back yet adequately captures debris and other items washed from the appendage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: SPECTRUM HEALTH HOSPITALS
    Inventors: Angel I. Dominguez, Wayne A. Blessing
  • Patent number: 7954183
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable sink or container with a lid that is preferably capable of closing and sealing the sink or container. In certain embodiments, the sink is preferably adapted to be connected to an existing water supply, such as an outdoor hose or faucet, such that running water can be provided inside the sink in an outdoor environment. The sink or container preferably has features that make it easy to use in an outdoor environment, such as folding legs, an adjustable spigot, a spray nozzle, a storage drawer, a shelf, a drain, a funnel, a strainer for the drain, cutting boards, baskets, etc. In one aspect, the sink preferably has handles that support utility panels that can be folded up or down on top of the sink or container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventor: Gregory Stuart Cawthon
  • 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: 7731846
    Abstract: A grease collection system for collecting and storing cooking grease for disposal by a user. The grease collection system includes an inlet assembly being designed for being coupled to a cabinet. The inlet assembly is designed for receiving the cooking grease to be disposed of by the user. A collection assembly is in fluid communication with the inlet assembly whereby the collection assembly is designed for receiving and storing the cooking grease from the inlet assembly to be selectively disposed of by the user. A hose member is fluidly coupled between the inlet assembly and the collection assembly. The hose member provides fluid communication between the inlet assembly and the collection assembly whereby the hose member is designed for permitting the cooking grease to flow from the inlet assembly to the collection assembly when the inlet assembly receives the cooking grease from the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Inventor: Robert E. Jones
  • Publication number: 20100101015
    Abstract: A portable personal hygiene apparatus, includes a water-impermeable user support shaped to support a person in a reclined posture, including a support surface contoured to receive a person's body thereon and a raised side surface extending continuously from the support surface completely around upper and lateral side edges of the support surface such that water discharged onto a person seated on the support surface is contained by the user support and flows downwardly to a front lower edge of the support surface, and a support frame fixed to the user support and having at least one wheel permitting rolling movement of the apparatus. The raised side surface of the user support is narrow in width such that an overall width of the user support substantially corresponds to a width of the support surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2009
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Inventor: Ronald Mondrush
  • Patent number: 7665160
    Abstract: A permanent restoration of one-piece cultured marble bathroom countertop/sinks including the insertion of a polymeric bowl within the existing sink without the need to remove or replace existing plumbing. The polymeric bowl insert is secured in place over the existing sink with an expandable drain insert. Seals and adaptive deformable strips, attached to the outer surface of the bowl, provide support and insure a snug and watertight fit within an existing cultured marble countertop/sink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Inventor: Brent Linder
  • Publication number: 20090265850
    Abstract: A wash basin includes a drain opening formed in a basin member for fitting a housing, a carrier having a peripheral wall member secured in the housing and a casing spaced from the peripheral wall member and coupled to the peripheral wall member with one or more arms for forming a passage between the peripheral wall member and the casing, and for allowing the water to flow out through the passage between the peripheral wall member and the casing, and for preventing the water from flowing into the casing, and for preventing the follower and the sliding member and the spring member received in the casing from being rusted or damaged or interfered by the water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Chun Sheng Kuo
  • Publication number: 20090193577
    Abstract: A universal face wash and care station for an easy and effective washing of user's face and/or scalp without need for special accommodations and preparation. One of the key features of the invention is providing a comfortable and/or ergonomically neutral user posture, such as standing upright or sitting when using the device. Another key feature is providing a hand-free face and/or scalp washing and care without preliminary preparation, such as undressing and preliminary washing of hands.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventors: Nikolai Eiteneer, Boris Eiteneer
  • Patent number: 7533426
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for a gray water interface valve for use with a vacuum source and a collection tank. The systems and methods comprise a basin for collecting gray water, the basin having an outlet; a reservoir in fluid communication with the outlet, the reservoir adapted to house gray water; a vent line associated with the reservoir; a pressure switch associated with the reservoir, the pressure switch adapted to signal when the reservoir is full; a controller associated with the pressure switch, the controller adapted to begin a discharge cycle by checking and switching on the vacuum source if necessary; a solenoid valve activated by the controller in order to control the flow of vacuum through the system; and a drain valve adapted to open via vacuum pressure and evacuate gray water from the reservoir, wherein the drain valve is adapted to close before all of the gray water from the reservoir is emptied to reduce noise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: MAG Aerospace Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Pondelick
  • Publication number: 20090113619
    Abstract: A dual spout-type faucet with controllable conventional-flow and mister-flow rates is provided. In a first mode, one or more mister elements, or apertures having mister-like openings, are co-located proximate to a spout outlet, wherein water flow rates to the mister elements (or openings) and spout outlet are both controllable by one or more valve controllers accessible to a user. In a second mode, one or more mister elements, or apertures having mister-like openings, are co-axially located in a spout outlet wherein water flow rates to the mister elements (or openings) and spout outlet are both controllable by one or more valve controllers accessible to a user. In another embodiment the apparatus may be handheld and positionable and equipped to dispense soap or a cleaning solution optionally including attachable scrubbers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2008
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventors: Clyde L. Tichenor, Darrell Jay Metcalf
  • Patent number: 7503083
    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: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Publication number: 20080276366
    Abstract: Provided is a seal for sealing a sink or other overflow drain in fluid communication with a sink drain system. The seal is used in conjunction with a pressure-based drain-opening device. The seal is configured as a releasable adhesive tape that includes water-resistant, flexible, conformable sheet material having pressure-sensitive adhesive layer adhered to one surface of the sheet material. Optionally, a protective layer may overlie the adhesive layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2007
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventor: Bruce Bitowft
  • Publication number: 20080184482
    Abstract: An integrated drain and fountain device having a stationary fountain nozzle integrated within a lower portion of a sink and disposed to produce a vertical stream of water at a user-defined water pressure. A concentrically located drain to the fountain nozzle is adapted to receive and collect water and is in fluid communication with drain piping. A water supply riser is in fluid communication with a water intake pipe that allows both hot and cold water to enter the water supply riser so that water can be discharged through the fountain nozzle. A controller for the fountain device is located on a counter top so that when a downward force is applied to the controller, the downward force is directed through a linkage including a flexible arm that redirects the downward force to an upward force causing an o-ring stopper of the integrated drain and fountain device to move vertically.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: KIONN ALLS
  • Patent number: 7331070
    Abstract: A portable sink includes first and second storage tanks for storing clean and dirty water respectively and a concave basin between the two tanks. The sink also includes a plastic base member that supports the clean water tank above and to one side of the base and the second tank below the concave basin. A normally closed one-way depressible valve connects the basin and the second storage tank for allowing water to drain into the second tank by gravity and from preventing dirty water from being returned to the basin. The valve also includes a circular plug with an upwardly extending skirt and a coil spring within the skirt for biasing the valve into a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Inventor: Aref Ghareeb Al-Anezi
  • Publication number: 20070245485
    Abstract: A drain tube assembly for use with a lavatory or other plumbing fixture is disclosed. The lavatory has a basin, a lower drain outlet having an internal threaded bore, and a one-piece drain structure having a drain tube adjacent one axial end, an attachment sleeve adjacent an opposed axial end which is radially outwardly threaded, and a radially extending flange there between. When attached, the drain structure has an axial path extending through the attachment sleeve, flange, and drain tube to carry liquid from the lavatory out the drain tube. In a first position the flange can form a clamp member if the assembly is to be mounted through a counter top. Alternatively the flange can in a second position form a base for the lavatory when the lavatory is suspended. Movement between the positions is created by varied degrees of threading the sleeve into the lower drain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Publication date: October 25, 2007
    Inventor: Mark F. McMullen
  • Patent number: 7240853
    Abstract: Emergency showers can go through extended periods of disuse, allowing for the growth of bacteria and other substances in the stagnant water in the supply passages. Water dispensed from such the shower head can come into contact with or be consumed by a user. Embodiments of the invention provide a system that can automatically flush stagnant water from emergency showers on a timed basis to minimize the possibility that contaminated water is delivered to a user. In addition, the automatic stagnant water flushing system according to embodiments of the invention can provide temperature-based flushing systems to avoid the dangers or discomfort associated with the delivery of excessively hot or cold water to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventor: Thomas M. Taylor
  • Patent number: 7240854
    Abstract: Eyewash stations can go through extended periods of disuse, allowing for the growth of bacteria and other substances in the stagnant water in the supply passages. Water dispensed from such the eyewash station can come into contact with or be consumed by a user. Embodiments of the invention provide a system that can automatically flush stagnant water from eyewash stations on a timed basis to minimize the possibility that contaminated water is delivered to a user. In addition, the automatic stagnant water flushing system according to embodiments of the invention can provide temperature-based flushing systems to avoid the dangers or discomfort associated with the delivery of excessively hot or cold water to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventor: Thomas M. Taylor
  • Patent number: 7240852
    Abstract: Drinking fountains can go through extended periods of disuse, allowing for the growth of bacteria and other substances in the stagnant water in the supply passages. Water dispensed from such the drinking fountain spout can come into contact with or be consumed by a user. Embodiments of the invention provide a system that can automatically flush stagnant water from drinking fountains on a timed basis to minimize the possibility that contaminated water is delivered to a user. In addition, the automatic stagnant water flushing system according to embodiments of the invention can provide temperature-based flushing systems to avoid the dangers or discomfort associated with the delivery of excessively hot or cold water to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventor: Thomas M. Taylor
  • Patent number: 7178739
    Abstract: There are a number of water dispensing systems in the art that can go through periods of disuse, allowing for the growth of bacteria and other substances. Water dispensed from such devices can come into contact with or be consumed by a user. Embodiments of the invention provide a system that can automatically flush stagnant water from these water dispensing systems on a timed basis to minimize the possibility that contaminated water is delivered to a user. In addition, the automatic stagnant water flushing system according to embodiments of the invention can provide temperature-based flushing systems to avoid the dangers or discomfort associated with the delivery of excessively hot or cold water to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Inventor: Thomas M. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6957452
    Abstract: An optical coupler for use within a sink assembly comprising a countertop having a countertop bore formed therethrough and a sink basin mounted above the countertop, the basin having a bore co-axial with the countertop bore for receiving the terminal end of a water drain pipe passing up through the countertop to the sink basin. The light coupler includes a light coupler body having a lower portion received through the countertop bore and an upper portion resting on the countertop about the countertop bore. The water drain pipes passes up through a bore formed through the light coupler body, the coupler further having a light-transmissive portion coupling the lower portion with the upper portion. Light from a light source located proximal the lower surface of the light coupler body lower portion is admitted through the lower surface and transmitted up through the light coupler body and out the upper surface to the sink basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: O'Ryan Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Rick Grant
  • Patent number: 6857141
    Abstract: A multi-layered concave basin is formed for mounting in an opening in a wash stand. The basin is made from pliant woven twigs with successive bottom layers of a first clear epoxy, a clear fiber cloth and a second clear epoxy and a top layer of a third clear epoxy to create a basin impervious to water under pressure from a wash basin spigot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventors: Karen R. Jackson, Amy J. Parsons
  • Patent number: 6836910
    Abstract: The portable sink is capable of being connected to an existing water supply, such as an outdoor hose or faucet, such that running water can be provided inside the sink in an outdoor environment. The sink preferably has features that make it easy to use in any outdoor environment, such as folding legs, an adjustable spigot, a spray nozzle, a storage drawer, a shelf, a large drain, a funnel, a strainer for the drain, cutting boards, baskets, etc. The lid also enables the sink to be used as a container for storing items during travel. In this respect, the sink can be made of an insulating material so that it can double as an ice chest when desired. A pressurized water tank can be provided which is preferably sized to fit inside the sink and adapted to supply water where no other water supply is available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Cawthon Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory Stuart Cawthon
  • Patent number: 6763533
    Abstract: A coupling system for securing a sink to a drain pipe. The coupling system of the present invention can include a support member and a flange connector. The flange connector can be coupled to the support member about opposite surfaces of a sink. The support member can include both a shoulder and a support surface opposite to the shoulder. The shoulder can be configured to support a sink and a gasket can be positioned thereon or within a recess therein to provide enhanced communication between a sink and the shoulder. The support surface, by comparison, can be configured to rest upon a support surface able to support the sink when coupled to the support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventors: Robert H. Mayer, Nicole D. Mayer
  • Patent number: 6756151
    Abstract: A draining device including a threaded portion, the threaded portion depending outwardly from an annular portion and having an inner opening in fluid communication with a pair of openings in the annular portion, where said pair of openings provides a pathway for draining.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Shijian Zhou, Timothy H. Kline, Donald F. Turner, James R. Nowakowski
  • Patent number: 6662387
    Abstract: A water trap comprising a cylindrical outer casing having a flat top wall and a frustoconical bottom wall, an internal substantially semi-circular open topped water seal container within the outer casing, an inlet into the water seal container which passes through the top wall and abuts one side wall of the water seal container and extends thereinto, and an outlet from the bottom wall of the trap that is offset from, and co-linear with, the inlet. The cross-sectional areas within the trap progressively increase to promote water flow through the trap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Inventor: Duncan P. Winzar
  • Patent number: 6618874
    Abstract: The subject matter of the invention is first a waste (10) for a washbasin (3) of a washstand (1) with a slot-shaped runout (6) with a channel-shaped trough (20) with a connecting branch (21) for connection to a drain pipe and second a washstand (1), wherein the basin (3) is formed by a rear wall (5) oriented approximately normal to the upper side of the washstand (1) and by a bottom (4) that extends angularly from the upper side and is oriented toward the rear wall (5), a slot-shaped runout (6) being formed between rear wall (5) and bottom (4) , and wherein the slot-shaped runout (6) is provided with a channel-shaped trough (20) according to one or several features of the claims 1 through 9.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Gerloff
  • Publication number: 20030159208
    Abstract: A coupling system for securing a sink to a drain pipe includes a flange connector having a drainage channel and a peripheral flange. A support member for supporting the sink has a drainage channel. Engagement structure secures the flange connector to the support member such that the drainage channel of the flange connector communicates with the drainage channel of the support member. A sink system and method for installing a sink are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Inventors: Robert H. Mayer, Nicole D. Mayer
  • Patent number: 6609259
    Abstract: A drain assembly is provided that eliminates the need for reconfiguring of existing plumbing during installation of a deep-sink assembly while maintaining a suitable working height. The drain assembly including a hollow body, a valve within the body and a mount to operably connect the valve within the hollow body. The hollow body includes an inlet, an outlet, and an inner wall positioned between the inlet and the outlet. A fluid path enters the inlet of the body in a first direction and is diverted to a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction by the inner wall. The diverted fluid path exits the body moving in the second direction. The mount is located at least partially within the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Metcraft, Inc.
    Inventor: John W. Cantrell
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6601248
    Abstract: A drain connector includes a fixed unit (2) having a first drain conduit for permanent attachment to a drain pipe and a detachable unit (6) having a second drain conduit for attachment to a removable appliance (8). The fixed unit (2) includes a first drain connector element (36) and the detachable unit includes a second drain connector element (18) for detachable connection with the first drain connector element. The fixed unit (2) further includes a closure member (44) that is adjustable between an opened condition and a closed condition in which it substantially closes the first drain conduit, to prevent the passage of rodents through the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: Mechline Developments Limited
    Inventor: Peter Sage-Passant
  • Patent number: 6446279
    Abstract: A drainage surface is provided on a conventional stamped metal sink and drain board unit. Multiple separate arrays of surface ridges are cold metal stamped in each of the drain boards. The upper ridge surfaces form a resting plane for dishware and cooking utensils while drying, permitting air circulation under the each of the kitchenware articles. Such circulating air speeds drying times and lessens the opportunities for cross-contamination problems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventor: Theodore C. Lambertson