Drain Valve Patents (Class 4/688)
  • Patent number: 11162250
    Abstract: Drain valve assembly for a basin includes a drain having a sidewall, which defines a first opening in fluid communication with the basin and with a first portion of the drain. Sidewall includes wall formation positioned within the drain which extends across the first opening separating the first portion of the drain from a second portion of the drain. First portion of the wall formation extends in a first direction away from the basin and defines an outlet opening which extends through the first portion. Plug member is aligned with the outlet opening and movable from a first position with the plug member abutting the first portion and closing the outlet opening and to a second position wherein the plug member is positioned spaced apart from first portion placing the outlet opening in an open position providing fluid communication between the first portion and the second portion of the drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2021
    Assignee: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventor: Jagdish Shinde
  • Patent number: 10233622
    Abstract: A wastewater drain assembly is provided that includes a selectively openable drain stopper. The wastewater drain assembly is interconnected to a fluid basin wherein a flange, which is interconnected to wastewater plumbing, is situated within the sink. The flange receives an insert that has a portion that conceals the flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Assignee: WCM INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: William T. Ball, Eric Pilarczyk
  • Patent number: 9194111
    Abstract: A sink or similar fluid retaining vessel drain system employs a unique linkage assembly to control the opening and closing of a ball type valve mechanism. The system is to be utilized in a small section of pipe as a tailpiece add-on which is connected to the bottom of any standard basket drain, configured to replace the existing straight section of tailpiece pipe below the drain. The system can also be utilized as an originally installed assembly connected directly beneath the drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Inventors: Richard Bohacik, Robert Petner
  • Patent number: 9062441
    Abstract: A cable overload device for a cable-actuated drain system having a drain valve assembly and a drain control assembly where the cable includes a driving end connected to the control assembly and a driven end. The overload device includes a plunger, a linking member, a sleeve, and an energy absorber. The plunger is configured to be coupled to the driven end of the cable. The linking member is configured to move the drain valve assembly between open and closed positions. The sleeve includes a bore that extends from a first side to a second side of the sleeve, wherein the bore is configured to receive the plunger through the first side and to receive the linking member through the second side. The energy absorber is provided in the bore between the plunger and the linking member to absorb a force imposed into the linking member from the drain valve assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Assignee: KOHLER CO.
    Inventors: Benjamin Marotz, Murali Natarajan, Andrew Stokes, Lisa Burns
  • 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: 20150074901
    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: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventor: Michael Delmonico
  • Patent number: 8959674
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a drain valve assembly with a pop-up drain stopper for a drain opening. The drain valve assembly has an improved sealing mechanism whereby the drain valve assembly may be easily installed and, in addition, the interface between the drain valve assembly and the drain opening may be easily cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Inventor: Jimmi Gellert
  • Patent number: 8899549
    Abstract: A drain valve base includes an upper connection seat and a lower connection seat which are integrally formed. The upper connection seat is connected with the lower connection seat by connection arms which are provided at intervals, and hollow portions are provided between every two connection arms. A through drain outlet is formed in the center portion of the lower connection seat, and an annular surface is formed on the top of the lower connection seat. A water-seal convex ring is formed on a side part of the annular surface which is adjacent to the inwall of the drain outlet. A water-seal surface is formed on the top of the water-seal convex ring, and blocking devices which can stop water flow are provided on the inner side and the outer side of the water-seal convex ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Inventor: Yongmao Liu
  • Publication number: 20140059761
    Abstract: A sink or similar fluid retaining vessel drain system employs a unique linkage assembly to control the opening and closing of a ball type valve mechanism. The system is to be utilized in a small section of pipe as a tailpiece add-on which is connected to the bottom of any standard basket drain, configured to replace the existing straight section of tailpiece pipe below the drain. The system can also be utilized as an originally installed assembly connected directly beneath the drain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Richard Bohacik, Robert Petner
  • Publication number: 20140000022
    Abstract: A thread-in drain for lavatories includes a flanged and threaded pipe inserted into the lavatory drain waste hole from above said hole for connection to plumbing below said hole. Said flange is secured to the inside of the vessel by tightening a nut and washers threaded onto said pipe from below the vessel. Cross-hairs found in traditional lavatory drains are eliminated. A plurality of closures and grates and screens can be introduced and fixed onto the drain by threading an attached male thread ring on the bottom of said introduced piece into a female thread groove on the upmost interior of said threaded pipe. Said thread-in drain allows for removal and sterilization of said introduced piece. Said thread-in drain allows for access to the interior of the drain by cleaning devices. Said thread-in drain allows for uniform distribution of anti-microbial coating in the interior of said drain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventor: Christopher Adam McLeod
  • Patent number: 8584272
    Abstract: A system is provided for enhancing the interconnectability of a bathtub to a plumbing system. More specifically, provided is a flexible conduit and an overflow assembly that allows for a portion of the overflow assembly to be easily located with the wall of a bathtub. The flexible conduit provided allows for adjustability of the conduit to the openings of the bathtub. In addition, provided are methods and apparatus that facilitate testing of a plumbing assembly. Finally, an apparatus and methods are provided that protect portions of the finished bathtub assembly to decrease in the need for replacing said hardware. It is envisioned that aspects and inventions disclosed herein can be used in conjunction to facilitate the interconnection and protection of hardware associated with a bathtub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Publication number: 20130283518
    Abstract: A drain system for a tub of the type having a tub body defining a bathing cavity, a doorway with door sill in the tub body and a door in the doorway. The drain system comprises a drain piping section adapted to be in fluid communication with a tub drain hole in a bottom of the bathing cavity for drainage of bathing liquid therethrough. A drain unit is adapted to be connected to a door drain hole in the door sill for drainage of liquid therethrough. The drain unit has an inner cavity and a check valve held releasably captive in the inner cavity. The check valve is manually removable from an exposed surface of the door sill. A pipe connects the drain unit to the drain piping section to direct liquid collected by the drain unit to the drain piping section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2012
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventors: Dominique Ciechanowski, Miguel Castellote, Jonathan Castellote-Ciechanowski
  • Patent number: 8528128
    Abstract: A closure device for a drain pipeline includes an outer sleeve, an inner sleeve mounted in the outer sleeve, and a closure member. The outer sleeve is adapted to be installed between a drain of a sink or washbasin and a drainpipe. A flow port is defined in the inner sleeve. The closure member is movably supported in the inner sleeve in a vertical direction. The closure member is normally biased by a spring to close the flow port so as to block odor from flowing into an indoor space, and the closure member is moved downwards to open the flow port when draining water into the outer sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Inventor: Yung-Hui Wang
  • Patent number: 8321970
    Abstract: A system is provided for enhancing the interconnectability of a bathtub to a plumbing system. More specifically, provided is a flexible conduit and an overflow assembly that allows for a portion of the overflow assembly to be easily located with the wall of a bathtub. The flexible conduit provided allows for adjustability of the conduit to the openings of the bathtub. In addition, provided are methods and apparatus that facilitate testing of a plumbing assembly. Finally, an apparatus and methods are provided that protect portions of the finished bathtub assembly to decrease in the need for replacing said hardware. It is envisioned that aspects and inventions disclosed herein can be used in conjunction to facilitate the interconnection and protection of hardware associated with a bathtub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Patent number: 8201581
    Abstract: The present invention provides a waste for an item of sanitary ware generating grey water, the waste comprising: (i) an inlet for admitting grey water; (ii) first and second outlets configured to discharge grey water, the first outlet being arranged to connect to a drainage system, and the second outlet being arranged to connect to a recycling system; (iii) a valve configured to selectively direct water to the first outlet or the second outlet, the valve being located between the inlet and the first and the second outlets, wherein the valve is operable between the first and the second positions, the valve connecting the inlet to the first outlet in the first position and the valve connecting the inlet to the second outlet in the second position; and (iv) a plug dimensioned to fit the inlet and configured to operate the valve by manipulation of the plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Inventor: Robert George
  • Publication number: 20120102640
    Abstract: A bath or basin waste having a plug in which the upper face of the cap is substantially below the upper face of the bottom of the bath or basin to which it is fitted when in the closed position and substantially flush with the upper face of the bottom of the bath or basin when in the open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventor: Timothy George Lucas
  • Publication number: 20120047646
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a drain device for draining wastewater, urine, etc. through a drainpipe and blocking bad odors emanating from the drainpipe, and more particularly, to a drain device comprising: an outer container coupled to a top of the drainpipe, a cover seated on a top of the outer container, a conical sloped plate coupled at a lower center of the cover, and a blocking layer formed in a trapezoidal cylindrical shape and coupled between the cover and the sloped plate, the blocking layer having a narrow upper inlet, a wide lower outlet, and a bent portion formed below the upper inlet. Accordingly, water is not left remaining, foreign objects are prevented from being entrapped and are discharged more easily, and the drain device can be reliably used for a long period of time without deforming.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: Hee-beom Park
  • Patent number: 8028357
    Abstract: A system is provided for enhancing the interconnectability of a bathtub to a plumbing system. More specifically, provided is a flexible conduit and an overflow assembly that allows for a portion of the overflow assembly to be easily located with the wall of a bathtub. The flexible conduit provided allows for adjustability of the conduit to the openings of the bathtub. In addition, provided are methods and apparatus that facilitate testing of a plumbing assembly. Finally, an apparatus and methods are provided that protect portions of the finished bathtub assembly to decrease in the need for replacing said hardware. It is envisioned that aspects and inventions disclosed herein can be used in conjunction to facilitate the interconnection and protection of hardware associated with a bathtub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Patent number: 7984521
    Abstract: The device has a housing (5) which can be fastened on the sanitary article (2) and in which is mounted a pushbutton (7) for actuating the drainage valve (A). A pulling element (16) connects the pushbutton (7) to a closure body (33) which is mounted in a displaceable manner in a housing (22) of the drainage valve (A). A changeover device (26) is mounted on the housing (22) of the drainage valve (A) and can be changed over under tension in each case for opening and closing the drainage valve (A). By virtue of the changeover device (26) being arranged on the housing (22) of the drainage valve (A), the actuating part which contains the pushbutton (7) can be designed in a more space-saving and compact manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Geberit Technik AG
    Inventors: Michael Schintler, Martin Rüdisser
  • Publication number: 20100269253
    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: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Applicant: T & S BRASS AND BRONZE WORKS, INC.
    Inventors: GENE EARL FAASSE, Jeffrey H. Baldwin, Richard Aloysius Fahey, JR.
  • Patent number: 7530123
    Abstract: An automatic drain device for a sink and especially a sink without an overflow hole is provided. The device includes a magnetically controlled valve to open a return path for the flow of overflow fluid to the draining pipe. When the sink is about to overflow, water pressure increases causing the valve in the magnetically controlled valve to open a bypass path to the drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Inventors: Zheng Cao, Zhongyan Lv
  • Publication number: 20090044331
    Abstract: A compact drain assembly for sinks and the like, comprising at least one drain duct which can be coupled hermetically at a drain hole which is provided at least at the lateral surface of a sink and has at least one portion which is at the same level as, or lower than, the bottom of the sink. An element for closing the drain is further provided which affects the drain duct.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: ELLECI S.P.A.
    Inventors: Giancarlo Traversa, Giorgio Davide Traversa, Danilo Giselico
  • Publication number: 20070289059
    Abstract: The device has a housing (5) which can be fastened on the sanitary article (2) and in which is mounted a pushbutton (7) for actuating the drainage valve (A). A pulling element (16) connects the pushbutton (7) to a closure body (33) which is mounted in a displaceable manner in a housing (22) of the drainage valve (A). A changeover device (26) is mounted on the housing (22) of the drainage valve (A) and can be changed over under tension in each case for opening and closing the drainage valve (A). By virtue of the changeover device (26) being arranged on the housing (22) of the drainage valve (A), the actuating part which contains the pushbutton (7) can be designed in a more space-saving and compact manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Publication date: December 20, 2007
    Applicant: GEBERIT TECHNIK AG
    Inventors: Michael Schintler, Martin Rudisser
  • 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: 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: 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: 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: 6966077
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for opening and shutting a drain valve in a washstand, particularly, an apparatus for automatically opening and shutting a drain valve in a washstand, wherein an automatic opening and shutting means for automatically opening and shutting the drain valve is mounted. The apparatus for automatically opening and shutting the drain valve in the washstand, wherein a drain-pipe is connected to the bottom of a washstand, and the top of the drain-pipe, i.e., a drain-outlet is opened and shut by a drain valve built in the drain-pipe, including a deceleration motor formed at one side of the drain-pipe, a working cam closely contacting the bottom of the drain valve, wherein the working cam is disposed on the axis of the deceleration motor, and a touch button for turning on/off the deceleration motor, wherein the touch button is disposed at a predetermined portion of the washstand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Inventor: Sang-Ik Cho
  • Patent number: 6675407
    Abstract: A solenoid activated bathtub drain closure is associated with the bathtub having a bottom with a drain opening therein. A vertically movable drain stopper is mounted over the drain opening. A drain pipe is connected to the drain opening and is conventionally positioned below the drain opening. A solenoid having a movable plunger is located outside the drain pipe and is preferably mounted on the drain pipe. Linkage is secured to the plunger and extends from the plunger into the drain pipe and terminates at an inner end underneath the drain opening. The linkage is so configured that when the plunger is moved by the solenoid from a first position to a second position, the inner end of the linkage will engage the stopper and raise it with respect to the drain opening to permit fluid in the bathtub to flow by gravity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Patent number: 6637051
    Abstract: Disclosed is a bathtub drain arrangement for implementation in a soaker bathtub of the type having a main basin coupled to a surrounding overflow trough. There is a drain channel extending from under the trough. There is also a drain pipe for draining water from the main basin. A drain control is positioned in the trough to extend into the drain channel and then outward there from.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventor: Peter W. Swart
  • 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: 6584625
    Abstract: A fluid flow control device is provided as an integral component of a drainage system for sinks in a commercial environment. This fluid flow control device includes a housing that is disposed beneath a waste valve and configured to define a flow control insert that is configured and disposed to interrupt the flow of fluid leaving the waste valve and before that flow reaches a grease interceptor. Both the housing and flow control insert are desirably made as a unitary structure from cast metal. Alternatively, the housing can define a ledge that receives a removable disk forming the flow control insert. In both embodiments, the flow control insert that has an opening through the insert that is sized for a flow area according to the needs of the fluid flows that are anticipated in the drainage system in question.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: T&S Brass and Bronze Works, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Weaver
  • Patent number: 6546573
    Abstract: A drain cover assembly with a hollow conduit member with an open end that penetrates and extends through a drain port of a bathtub, and a drain cover with a center opening, a horizontal flange, and an integral sleeve that extends into the open end of the conduit, the sleeve having protruding elements that are received by slots on the interior of the conduit to guide and releasably secure the drain cover to the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Patent number: 6523192
    Abstract: A system for automatically purging residual water from the whirlpool plumbing of a whirlpool bath. The system includes a bathtub, a primary water inlet in hydraulic communication with the bathtub, a primary water outlet in hydraulic communication with the bathtub, a plunger actuatable to engage the primary water outlet to prevent water flow through the primary water outlet. When the bathtub is filled with water the plunger is automatically disengaged for a predetermined length of time to flush the water manifold, the water manifold conduit, the at least one water delivery conduit and the at least one jet nozzle. Also, when the bathtub is substantially drained, the air pump may be actuated to introduce air into the at least one jet nozzle, the at least one suction fitting, the water manifold, the at least one water delivery conduit, and the at least one hydraulic suction conduit to purge residual water therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Inventor: Cary Gloodt
  • Publication number: 20030033670
    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: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: John W. Cantrell
  • Publication number: 20020194675
    Abstract: A fluid flow control device is provided as an integral component of a drainage system for sinks in a commercial environment. This fluid flow control device includes a housing that is disposed beneath a waste valve and configured to define a flow control insert that is configured and disposed to interrupt the flow of fluid leaving the waste valve and before that flow reaches a grease interceptor. Both the housing and flow control insert are desirably made as a unitary structure from cast metal. Alternatively, the housing can define a ledge that receives a removable disk forming the flow control insert. In both embodiments, the flow control insert that has an opening through the insert that is sized for a flow area according to the needs of the fluid flows that are anticipated in the drainage system in question.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Inventor: Mark Weaver
  • Patent number: 6484329
    Abstract: A stopper for selectively blocking a drain to the passage of water. The drain has an inlet, an outlet and a substantially cylindrical throat between the inlet and outlet. A control means is provided for selectively feeding control fluid under hydraulic pressure to the cylindrical throat whereupon an expandable bladder located within the cylindrical throat selectively expands in fluid communication with the control fluid to block the drain and thus act as a stopper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Inventor: Scott Duncan
  • Patent number: 6470514
    Abstract: A drain valve 1 comprises a body 10 having a cylinder portion 11 and a branch portion 12, to which are mounted a plug 30 constituting a valve seat and a hose joint 70. A poppet 50 constituting a valve means is slidably inserted to the plug 30. An operating device 100 mounted to said branch portion 12 and comprising a movable shaft 120 is used to open and close the valve by operating said poppet 50 via an operating rod 160.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Jamco Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroyasu Onoue
  • Patent number: 6415463
    Abstract: A drain stop and overflow mechanism that is particularly well-suited for use with a free-standing bathtub includes a drainpipe that can be connected to a water drain opening in the bathtub. A standpipe can be connected at a bottom end to a waste water line and also to the drainpipe. A sleeve provides an internal overflow system within the standpipe, and a plunger controlling drainage is positioned within the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Kallista, Inc.
    Inventor: Erich D. Slothower
  • Patent number: 6367102
    Abstract: A drain assembly mountable in a drain opening of a wash basin includes a movable stopper guide that can be used during installation to align the drain flange to the drain body from above the sink. The stopper guide supports at an upper end a stopper for closing the drain opening. The stopper guide has an axial opening accommodating an axial fastener joining the drain flange and drain body to the basin. The stopper guide also has downwardly extending legs defining an axial slot extending from the axial opening for accommodating cross-members extending laterally between each of the drain flange and drain body. The drain flange can be aligned to the drain body by engaging the drain flange cross-member and rotating it as needed. A method of installing a drain assembly to a basin is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventor: Mark F. McMullen
  • Patent number: 6341391
    Abstract: An improved hidden drain outlet structure for sink includes a drain pipe, a drain head screwed to the drain pipe at an upper end thereof and a filter movably screwed to the drain head. The filter may trap and collect external articles and garbage to prevent the drain pipe from clogging, and may be disassembled easily for repairs. The drain head and filter form a double curve-shaped top surface with a converged valley to facilitate water discharging and form a sturdy and safe construction and has aesthetic appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Inventor: Tsan-Hsiung Cheng
  • Patent number: 6317906
    Abstract: A strainer assembly for bathtub drains has a strainer body with a circular horizontal flange having a center opening and which is adapted to fit over and around a vertically disposed drain port in the bottom of a tub or the like. A hollow bushing extension extends downwardly from the center opening and terminates in an open lower portion with external threads. A hollow attachment bushing having a center opening is threadably secured around the lower portion of the bushing extension and extends downwardly therefrom. The attachment bushing has a lower open end with at least one crossbar extending thereacross. A bearing hub is formed in the center of the crossbar on the center axis of the aforesaid center openings. A vertically disposed threaded aperture is located in the hub and is adapted to threadably receive a connecting stud from a drain strainer or closure valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Patent number: 6282730
    Abstract: A waste outlet fitting for use in tubs, sinks and basins. A magnetic plug is mounted in the waste outlet which can be rotated between open and closed positions through the use of a rotatable magnetic located proximate to the plug. The magnetic is rotatable by use of a remotely located handle employing cable, wire or rods for connecting the handle and magnetic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: E-Ticket Enterprises, LLC
    Inventor: Scott Duncan
  • Patent number: 6154898
    Abstract: A wastewater drain control for fluid compartments has a waste water discharge port in the bottom thereof and in communication with a vertical drain pipe. A valve seat element is in the pipe below the port and has an inclined annular valve seat surface and a center opening. A spherical valve element has a diameter greater than the center opening in the valve seat surface and is adapted to close the center opening to fluid flow when dwelling on the valve seat element above the center opening. A valve stem is rigidly secured by an upper end to the spherical valve element. The lower end extends downwardly through the center opening and terminates in a lower end. This lower end is connected to a linkage assembly which extends through a seal element in the vertical pipe and extends to a remote location accessible in the environment of the fluid compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Patent number: 6119283
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for evacuation of liquids, such as wastewater from e.g. wash basins, urinals, bath tubs or showers, whereby the liquid is collected in a sump, generates a hydrostatic pressure and is evacuated from the sump through a vacuum pipeline after a predetermined hydrostatic pressure is generated. In order to avoid flexible control conduits and to achieve time controlled evacuation with a simple mechanism, valves are integrated in a housing and operated by pressure differences acting on diaphragms after a certain hydrostatic pressure has been generated. One of the valves opens a connection between the sump and the vacuum pipeline to evacuate the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Roediger Vakuum- und Haustechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Lothar Galler
  • Patent number: 6061847
    Abstract: An improved linkage assembly for a pop-up drain stopper assembly includes an elongated connector bar having a plurality of apertures adjacent both its upper and lower ends. The assembly also includes a stem having a J-shaped portion of its lower end that is received within a select aperture. A lever arm is received within an aperture adjacent the lower end of the connector bar, the opposing end of which is attached to a drain stopper. The linkage assembly may be quickly and conveniently adjusted or dismantled with minimal effort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventor: Stanley A. Jourdan
  • Patent number: 6058526
    Abstract: The drain assembly is constructed with a segmented ball valve of stainless steel or plastic which is rotatable between an open position and a closed position by a shaft extending from the drain body. An annular valve seat is biased against the valve body by a compression device and an annual retainer which is threaded into the valve body from above. A strainer may also be provided to catch large particles which might otherwise not be desirable for passage through the drain assembly. The valve body provides a relatively large opening for the discharge of fluids into a drain pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Component Hardware Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Bernard Parisi, David J. Burke
  • Patent number: 5996143
    Abstract: The pop up lavatory plug comprises a body which depends from a head and has a trailing connector. The connector is elongate and has a linear array of bores therein. The head has a cavity in a top surface thereof which engages an overcap. Extending downwardly into the plug body from within the cavity is a slot by means of which an overcap assembly can be floatingly engaged to the plug in place of the overcap when it is desired to cover a visible flange of a drain assembly rather than merely selectively sealing an orifice of the drain assembly as is accomplished when the overcap is used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Inventors: Var E. Lordahl, Alex Riutis
  • Patent number: 5662138
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a water drop structure which not only functions as a water drop but also prevents pests from intruding indoors, smell from leaking indoors, and sewage back flow when the robe is clogged. It has a main body, main drum, control floating ball, upper partition, and an upper cover. The main body has a positioning flange, main through hole, let-in sheet to form a let-in slot, and a main drum having a lower through hole, union sheet, and upper partition having a spacer with a recess, upper through hole, and its peripheral having union sheet, the upper cover having water drop hole, and the bottom having extension hood with inside diameter smaller than that of upper partition. The main drum and upper partition may be set in the main drum, and an upper cover can be assembled in the upper partition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Inventor: Wen-Hsing Wang
  • Patent number: 5419359
    Abstract: A valve device for use with a drain provided with a pipe having an entrance for collecting liquid leading to a P-trap beneath the entrance. The device comprising an open vessel, in use positioned at the entrance of the pipe, having walls and a floor defining an internal chamber, the floor having an opening for permitting liquid collected in the chamber to pass into the pipe. The device is provided with a valve arranged to seat in the opening from below and is movable between a closed position sealing the opening against gas and liquid flow from the pipe to the chamber and an open position spaced from the opening beneath the floor. A float is positioned in the internal chamber and a linkage transfers buoyancy force exerted on the float by liquid collected in the chamber to the valve to cause the valve to move from the closed position to the open position when the liquid exceeds a certain depth in the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1995
    Assignees: Murray A. Grant, Harold N. Westdal
    Inventor: Bouko J. Kor