Drain Or Gutter Patents (Class 404/2)
  • Patent number: 6527474
    Abstract: A pavement drain includes a spring coil strap formed in a continuous spiral fashion and composed of a plurality of linear bodies of synthetic resin that are arranged in parallel. The adjacent linear bodies are joined together at side parts thereof having a height at least one fourth the height of the linear bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Stella Corporation
    Inventor: Nobuya Nabeshima
  • Publication number: 20030039509
    Abstract: An apparatus for producing a pipeline includes a plurality of vehicles for straddling a ditch. Al of the vehicles are carried by wide, relatively soft tires for minimizing damage to the soil surface. A first vehicle receives, aligns and maintains sections of pipe in position over a trench while effecting a first weld. Additional welding of the joints between pipe sections is effected in successive vehicles, and the weld joint is inspected and then coated with plastic. Finally, the pipeline is deposited in the trench, and the latter is backfilled by the last vehicle in the train of vehicles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2002
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventor: Garry McIvor
  • Patent number: 6505996
    Abstract: Unitary void-maintaining geocomposites, and drainage systems utilizing those geocomposites, are provided for location below a road surface or below a large structure such as a building, retaining wall or parking lot. In some embodiments, the geocomposites include at least one fluid-transmissible layer, preferably a geotextile, attached adjacent an upper or lower surface, or both surfaces, of a polymer-based core element. In other embodiments, the core element is constructed such that no geotextile layer is needed. Characteristic of the core element is high transmissivity, that is, a high rate of horizontal flow of gases or liquids through the core. Characteristic of the at least one fluid-transmissible layer is high permittivity, that is, a high rate of vertical transmission of liquids and gases through the geotextile layer and into the core element. Also characteristic of fluid-transmissible layers of the invention is high exclusivity with respect to solid materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Tenax Corporation
    Inventors: Peter J. Ianniello, Aigen Zhao, Giovanni Capra
  • Publication number: 20020159833
    Abstract: A pavement drain includes a spring coil strap formed in a continuous spiral fashion and composed of a plurality of linear bodies of synthetic resin that are arranged in parallel. The adjacent linear bodies are joined together at side parts thereof having a height at least one fourth the height of the linear bodies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Applicant: Stella Corporation
    Inventor: Nobuya Nabeshima
  • Publication number: 20020154952
    Abstract: An assembly for forming a trench is described comprising a frame having two elongated members that define a support surface and at least one opening. The assembly also includes a removable grate that is disposed on the support surface and includes a hook that is disposed proximate the opening defined by the elongated frame members. The assembly also includes a removable pin that is slidably inserted through an opening defined by an elongated member and is mechanically engaged by the hook of the grate to secure the grate to the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Applicant: ABT, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles E. Gunter
  • Patent number: 6406218
    Abstract: A structure for use with low flow stormwater drainage includes a two-piece outer cylindrical housing and a removable inner cylindrical flow cartridge containing a replaceable filter media. The housing consists of a sealed basin with a removable lid. The cartridge is suspended within the housing by an open tubular mechanical support extending downward from the housing lid. The bottom of the cartridge is above the bottom of the housing. The cartridge has a permeable screened bottom and a screened orifice at the top where the open tubular support attaches. An inlet into the housing accepts fluid flow transverse to the vertical axis of the cartridge at a depth location near the cartridge vertical midpoint. In operation, hydrostatic head pressure forces stormwater flow into the housing where primary separation of insoluble contaminants occurs. Contaminants with a density less than water remain inside the housing but outside the cartridge at a depth near the housing lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Inventor: Norman L. Olson
  • Patent number: 6406216
    Abstract: A storm sewer overflow control device for controlling runoff surge flows from a generally vertically oriented storm drain into a generally horizontally oriented storm sewer pipe includes an engagement portion configured for insertion into the storm sewer pipe, a flow control portion attachable to the engagement portion and configured for receiving runoff surge flow flowing down the storm drain and slowing the flow for entry into the storm sewer through the engagement portion. The engagement portion is radially expandable to tightly and frictionally engage an interior surface of the storm sewer pipe, and preferably is configured to expand radially as it is shortened axially.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Inventor: Jason J. Raasch
  • Patent number: 6394700
    Abstract: A plastic apron endwall is connected to a drain which extends under a highway. The apron endwall is in the form of an upwardly opening trough having a general wedge shape and incorporates lateral wings which extend outwardly from the sides of the apron end wall into the surrounding soil, so that as installed, the soil overburden prevents the apron end wall from being displaced upwardly by buoyancy forces in the event that the ditch into which the apron end wall drains becomes flooded. The total planar area of the wings is selected so that the overburden, that is the soil which lies above the wings, is sufficient to offset any buoyancy force produced by water saturated the soil in which the apron end wall is embedded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: Midwest Plastic Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary A. Fish
  • Publication number: 20020057945
    Abstract: A modular trench drainage system for placement in a trench of a natural surface or pavement. The system includes a base conduit, a grate cover pivotably secured to the base conduit for covering the base member, a coupling mechanism for pivotably securing the grate cover to the base conduit, an alignment mechanism for aligning the grate cover with respect to the base conduit when the grate cover is placed in a closed position over the base conduit, and a locking mechanism for locking the grate cover to the base conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2001
    Publication date: May 16, 2002
    Inventors: Donald E. Dahowski, James G. Wilson, Allen L. Kinner, Christopher B. Presler, Matthew B. Schlager
  • Patent number: 6385913
    Abstract: A steel manhole is provided which includes a steel box having a hole having a bolt hole and formed at an upper portion of the same, a height control pipe having a vertical longitudinal hole inserted into an inner diameter portion of the hole, a multi-hole lid for covering an upper portion of the height control pipe, a male screw formed at left and right portions of the steel box and having a male screw portion, and a female screw having a thread portion for being threaded with the male screw pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: Byung Moo Ahn
  • Patent number: 6379079
    Abstract: Ecotechnical pavement comprising a draining and wearing course (1) and at least a second lower layer (2) of analogous structure. The particular granulometry of the layers (1, 2) and the choice of aggregates, insure both an optimum adherence and the absorption of medium and high acoustic frequencies produced by vehicle traffic. Between the two layers (1, 2) and the lower supporting layer (5) there is provided a “cooperating separation layer” (3) which transmits the forces produced by vehicle traffic to the supporting layer (5). The layer (3) acts as a Helmhotz resonator in order to absorb sound at low frequencies, besides allowing an easy transversal flow of rainwater, the passage of powder of heavy metals or the passage of other types of liquids; the latter, which may be dangerous or polluting, are collected in a lateral “reservoir pavement” (9). The separation layer prevents cracks due to fatigue from rising.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Autostrade Concessionie Costruzioni Autostrade S.p.A.
    Inventor: Gabriele Camomilla
  • Patent number: 6371690
    Abstract: A liquid-handling installation utilizes an upstream and a downstream separator unit, each unit having a horizontal partition defining a treatment compartment below the partition and an overflow compartment above the partition. Each unit has an inlet opening and an outlet opening. Two conduits communicate the outlet opening of the upstream unit with the inlet opening of the downstream unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventor: Joseph Gordon Monteith
  • Patent number: 6340267
    Abstract: A concrete block, especially for forming a shoulder in a paved surface, a pavement, etc., having a support surface which is shaped in the form of a ramp and a cross-sectional contour which is provided with an upper surface region, which is at least approximately horizontal, a middle surface region with an inclined shape (S) forming the ramp, an at least approximately horizontal lower surface region and with a liquid-guiding gutter. The upper and lower surface regions of the concrete block have a surface depression proximate adjoining side surfaces and adjacent respective apical surface regions which are adjacent to the central surface region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2002
    Inventor: Karl Kortmann
  • Patent number: 6309139
    Abstract: A manhole for a storm sewage system comprising a structure having at least two outwardly extending substantially vertical flat panels projecting outwardly from the exterior surface a predetermined distance on opposite sides of the base portion of the manhole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Wilkinson Heavy Precast Limited
    Inventor: John Tran-Quoc-Nam
  • Patent number: 6273640
    Abstract: An irrigation ditch liner system comprises a plurality of liner sections including at least one straight conduit section and one corrugated conduit section, each conduit having a semi-cylindrical body portion defining a conduit interior diameter, vertical walls extending from the semi-cylindrical body portion, and end sections having extending end flanges with an interior diameter greater than said conduit interior diameter. A connecting joint is provided with an outer wall and an inner wall, the inner wall having a interior diameter the same as the conduit interior diameter, where the outer wall of the connecting joint further defines a depending lip that captures the end flanges between the inner wall and the outer wall of the connecting joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Assignee: Fast Ditch, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Suazo
  • Publication number: 20010003886
    Abstract: A locking ground hole cover is disclosed comprising a cover plate with a scissor-type apparatus suspended therefrom which apparatus can be actuated from above the cover plate. The apparatus allows for the locking of a hole by pulling the cover plate down into a sealed locked position with the hole mouth. Variations on the device are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2000
    Publication date: June 21, 2001
    Inventors: Larry Mihalicz, Orest Boyachek
  • Patent number: 6234711
    Abstract: A prefabricated one-piece metal frame and funnel drain is constructed for curb and gutter use. The frame may be constructed in a number of styles, with a particular style selected to match the desired curb form. The funnel drain also includes a variety of styles in order to accommodate different drain pipe orientations and configurations. When welded together, the frame and funnel drain may be mounted within any standard curb and gutter form such that curb and gutter installation and drain pipe installation may be accomplished simultaneously, without any preparatory concrete work required for placement of the frame and funnel drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Inventor: Donald B. Beaman
  • Patent number: 6227758
    Abstract: A protector for a drainpipe exit passing through a sidewalk curb is provided with an angled front face with an exit drain opening formed therein. The angled front face is secured to a top plate, a hollow drainpipe connecting portion, a rear securing element and at least one lower rebar securing element. The curb protector is inserted and held in a form while making or repairing a curb and held therein by concrete poured around a drainpipe connected to the curb protector and the curb protector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventors: Gregory J. Missick, Brent W. Chapman
  • Patent number: 6220784
    Abstract: An apparatus for forming a trench which is adapted to receive at least one grate that will cover the trench. The apparatus comprises first and second frame rails that are connected by at least one removable spacer. The spacer is sized and configured to maintain proper alignment and spacing between the first and second frame rails during the formation of the trench. The removable spacer is connected to the first and second frame rails with spacer securing means. In addition to securing the at least one spacer to the first and second frame rails, the securing means also can be used to fixedly secure the at least one grate in place on the first and second frame rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Inventor: Albert W. Bricker
  • Patent number: 6206607
    Abstract: A porous pavement construction formed from environmental porous pavement materials is formed with a number of aqueduct channels located underneath the pavement surface, so that water can percolate downward into the pavement and enter the channels. Methods of forming this pavement structure are also discussed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: John, J. Medico, Jr. Christine Meoli Medico Family Trust
    Inventors: John J. Medico, Jr., Christine Meoli Medico, Peter J. Medico, John C. Medico, III
  • Patent number: 6202358
    Abstract: An elongate ground gutter device designed to be substantially recessed in the ground with the central trough section thereof open above ground. The gutter device is designed to communicate with the downspout of a roof gutter to receive rain water into the trough section and transport it a distance away from the building. The gutter device comprises a trough section having vertical walls terminating in upper reinforcement sections which are supported on the ground surface, and a pair of lower horizontal flanges which are buried below ground, parallel to and underlying the reinforcement sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventor: Lawrence M. Janesky
  • Patent number: 6146051
    Abstract: The paving system has a perforated pavement covering a deep substrate of mainly hard nodules or shells, the whole being surrounded by impervious walls to provide temporary storage in the interstices for chemical spillage or flood water, wherein liquids may be chemically treated or biologically decomposed, and from whence the rate of outflow may be regulated, the pavement consisting of preformed pavings of brick, concrete or other material, laid edge to edge without mortar or cement, and these pavings can be perforated or notched to allow liquids to run down into the substrate. The pavings are laid on a screen which filters out solid particles to reduce clogging. The system allows biological substances to grow, or be introduced, with or without additional nutrients, and allows chemical treatments to be introduced, from above, when needed. The whole pavement system can be lifted out for cleaning or, substitution, and relaid as new.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: Conventry University
    Inventor: Christopher John Pratt
  • Patent number: 6132137
    Abstract: An elongate grate capable of securing an edge portion of an artificial turf surface within a drainage channel is provided. The grate includes an elongate central portion defining a plurality of openings to permit runoff from the artificial turf surface to flow into the drainage channel. Connected to at least one exterior edge of the central portion is a downwardly extending wall portion being interior of the exterior edge for applying a downwardly directed engagement force to the edge portion of the artificial turf surface. According to another embodiment of the grate, an elongate slot is integrally defined in the central portion having a width such the edge portion of the artificial turf can be frictionally engaged therein. According to yet another embodiment, a grate is provided with a central portion positioned between opposed edge portions and defines a plurality of openings therein such that an impervious athletic surface can be formed over each of the edge portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: ABT, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles E. Gunter
  • Patent number: 6113311
    Abstract: A modular trench drain for use in a trench drain system. The trench drain includes an open-faced channel including a narrow throat into which water can flow and a wider flow passage. The trench drain can include an integrally formed, removable cover which renders the channel close-faced. The removable cover is removed after installation of the drain. The throat can be offset to allow curbside installation of the trench drain. Protuberances are provided to secure the drain in the material in which the trench drain is embedded. Securement clips are provided for receiving support rods and reinforcing rods to ease installation and to provide structural stability to the trench drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Zurn Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Allen R. Becker, Michael A. Funari, Donald A. Kubiak
  • Patent number: 6088984
    Abstract: A method for making a floor that slopes toward a drain includes the steps of enclosing a predetermined area of a flat support surface around the drain with upstanding border members, positioning an annular ring in closely spaced, concentric relation around the drain, arranging a plurality of straight form members in radial relation to the drain, connecting a radially innermost end of each form member to the annular ring so that the top edge of each form member is spaced downwardly from the plane of the drain by a distance equal to a tile thickness, and positioning an outermost end of each form member in abutting relation to the border member. Each form member has a height at its innermost end that is less than a height of its outermost end. A cementitious material is poured into the predetermined area and the material is made flush with the respective top edges of the form members. An auxiliary form member is attachable to a trailing end of each form member to increase the versatility of the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventor: Mark E. Kirby
  • Patent number: 6082925
    Abstract: A storm sewer overflow control device for controlling runoff surge flows from a generally vertically oriented storm drain into a generally horizontally oriented storm sewer pipe includes an engagement portion configured for insertion into the storm sewer pipe, a flow control portion attachable to the engagement portion and configured for receiving runoff surge flow flowing down the storm drain and slowing the flow for entry into the storm sewer through the engagement portion. The engagement portion is radially expandable to sealingly engage an interior surface of the storm sewer pipe, and preferably is configured to expand radially as it is shortened axially.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Inventor: Jason J. Raasch
  • Patent number: 6074130
    Abstract: A manhole drop system is described which is convenient to inspect. A catch bowl made of an integral structure is formed to capture and channel sewer fluid entering a manhole an elevation that is above a bottom located sewer line. The catch bowl has its upper portion shaped to reveal both a lower exit port leading to down drain and to reveal the discharge opening from a side feed. The catch bowl has a front surface that is curved sufficiently to enable a relatively secure seal between the front surface and a curved wall of the manhole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: Duran, Inc.
    Inventor: Lee A. Duran
  • Patent number: 6062767
    Abstract: A storm water receptor having at least one inlet and an outlet positioned at a discharge level lower than the level of the intake provided with a novel, removable divider which divides the receptor into an upper chamber and a lower chamber, having a float-actuated trap door that permits water entering the upper chamber of the catch basin or field inlet to be diverted and flow into the lower chamber until the lower chamber is filled with liquid, at which point the entrance into the lower chamber closes, and water entering the upper chamber passes directly out of the upper chamber through the discharge pipe. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the float-activated trap door can be replaced with a stationary, removable plate or ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventors: Samuil Kizhnerman, Michael J. Calise
  • Patent number: 6047897
    Abstract: A sprinkler system for a vehicle running test course having an incline in the direction of the width of the vehicle running test course such that said vehicle running test course has a higher side and a lower side. The sprinkler system including a concave placement channel constructed on one or both sides of the vehicle running test course; multiple sprinklers capable of sprinkling water over the vehicle running test course being installed in the concave placement channel; a concave installation channel constructed on the higher side of the vehicle running test course; and multiple water sprinkler nozzles placed in the concave installation channel. The water sprinkler nozzles sprinkle water onto the higher side of the vehicle running test course such that the sprinkled water flows downward along the surface of the vehicle running test course toward the lower side of the vehicle running test course.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: Marubeni Plant Contractor, Inc.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Ueno, Mitsuru Kawamura
  • Patent number: 6017166
    Abstract: A catch basin guard and filter for preventing entry into a catch basin and subsequently a storm drain. The preferred embodiment provides a form fitting cover having a grate. The invention is designed for catch basins being installed in construction sites. The invention blocks the inlet of a catch basin, thereby deterring the entry of debris, animals and, most importantly, children. This deterrent increases the completion of construction because the catch basin will need less cleaning and evacuating before coupling to the existing storm drain system. The invention additionally has a mesh filter covering the grate, and a second embodiment employs overflow apertures to provide for the passing of fluids should the filter become clogged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2000
    Inventor: William H. Mossburg, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6004068
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming a trench or catch basin void with removable cardboard components that fold up to create a three dimensional trench void form, and pair of elongated frame members to define a support surface for a trench cover is disclosed according to the present invention. The removable cardboard form includes a rectangular shape with outwardly extending edges running longitudinally along the top surface. A pair of elongated frame members lay in a coplanar, spaced relationship to the side and bottom of the outward extended top edges of the predetermined form. The frames are used to define a surface to support the trench covers. A pair of U shaped support legs are joined at the ends to the frame members with nuts in order to maintain clearance for total encasement and adjust the top of the form to the desired finish elevation. Another preferred embodiment utilizes a rectangular rail for creating a drain support in a finished catch basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Inventor: David Hosley
  • Patent number: 5997210
    Abstract: A decking plate is arranged on a cover plate over the open top of a U shaped channel, such that a through hole of the decking plate is positioned aligned over a cutout portion of the cover plate. A fixture is inserted through the through hole and the cutout portion. The fixture includes a head, a screw, a tube like portion and a protrusion. The cover plate and the decking plate are pinched and fixed together between the head and the protrusion of the feature. Thus, a positioned displacement of a attached plurality of plates can be prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Miyagawa Kasei Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Mitsuya Shirakawa
  • Patent number: 5971662
    Abstract: A polymeric trench drain for use in a trench drain system. The trench drain includes an open-faced channel having a crushing rib. The crushing rib prevents buckling of the trench drain due to changes in temperatures. The trench drain also includes removable spacer blocks for use during installation, which prevent the trench drain channel from deforming during installation. Rebar clips and securement clips are provided for easy installation. A unique profile is provided on support ribs to assist in easy stacking of the trench drains prior to installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Zurn Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Allen R. Becker, Michael A. Funari, Donald A. Kubiak
  • Patent number: 5908266
    Abstract: Below ground drain and conduit member to receive surface water. The member comprises two (2) extruded plastic assemblies that are joined together to form one (1) unit. This unit assembly is attached to a plastic carrier pipe, in a longitudinal fashion. The unit assembly is attached to the carrier pipe by a chemical welding process or other means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Inventor: Lyle E. Miller
  • Patent number: 5906454
    Abstract: A solid state porous rubber overlayment friction course is formed from recycled rubber, plastic and/or other products, and facilitates drainage of standing water from the road surface. The overlayment may have holes running through its surface to expedite water drainage, and also may have grooves on its undersurface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Inventors: John J. Medico, Jr., Christine Meoli Medico, Peter J. Medico, John C. Medico, III
  • Patent number: 5882145
    Abstract: A trench liner system used for forming a single or a dual containment trench where expansion and contraction of the liner is controlled. For single containment, the trench system has a primary liner or a primary liner and a separator. For dual containment, the trench system has a primary liner and a secondary liner, or a primary liner, a separator and a secondary liner. Each system also includes anchors spaced along the length of the liner so as to partition the liner into juxtaposed vertical segments. The anchors allow unimpeded contraction and expansion of the liner between anchors within a segment. These embodiments may include a holding element for holding the liners against the trench walls so as to allow each segment to expand and contract along its respective length. Another embodiment of this invention provides laterally extending cavities spaced along the length of the trench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Assignee: Hoosier Group, LLC
    Inventor: John V. Beamer
  • Patent number: 5879106
    Abstract: A trench liner system used for forming a single or a dual containment trench where expansion and contraction of the liner is controlled. For single containment, the trench system has a primary liner or a primary liner and a separator. For dual containment, the trench system has a primary liner and a secondary liner, or a primary liner, a separator and a secondary liner. Each system also includes anchors spaced along the length of the liner so as to partition the liner into juxtaposed vertical segments. The anchors allow unimpeded contraction and expansion of the liner between anchors within a segment. These embodiments may include a holding element for holding the liners against the trench walls so as to allow each segment to expand and contract along its respective length. Another embodiment of this invention provides laterally extending cavities spaced along the length of the trench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Assignee: Hoosier Group, LLC
    Inventor: John V. Beamer
  • Patent number: 5855774
    Abstract: A storm drain filter (10) functioning to remove selected substances from water flowing through a municipal storm drain. The storm drain filter (10) has an absorption filter (18) functioning to absorb selectable substances from a liquid. The absorption filter (18) comprises an absorption filter frame (18A) enclosing an absorption filter absorbing material (18B) between pairs of at least two absorption filter longitudinal retainers (18C) and at least two absorption filter transverse retainers (18D). The at least two absorption filter longitudinal retainers (18C) and at least two absorption filter transverse retainers (18D) function to retain the absorption filter absorbing material (18B) within the absorption filter frame (18A). A tray (16) functions to support the absorption filter (18). The tray rear (16B) comprises at least one orifice (16BA) functioning to permit liquid to flow therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Inventor: Carl Boelter
  • Patent number: 5846020
    Abstract: The invention effectively multiplies a roadway vertically by allowing automobiles to travel on top of each other. Each section of the invention is a pre-fabricated reinforced concrete multi-level roadway structure that covers an existing lane of traffic on a roadway. The invention is easily cast, transported, assembled and moved, as needed. The cover of the lower roadway forms the roadway of the upper lane of traffic. The bottom section of the invention is made up of two "Jersey-type" barriers which have vertical columns that then support the upper roadway section. The upper section of the invention contains "Jersey-type" barriers for safety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Inventor: Kevin McKeown
  • Patent number: 5842811
    Abstract: A confined space manhole sign system for use in association with a manhole including a ledge and a manhole cover, the apparatus comprises a plurality of manhole insert members each having a circular base with an upper surface, an upstanding sidewall extending from the base and being formed contiguously therewith, two drain apertures being positioned at the intersection of the base and the sidewall, a flange being formed contiguously with the upstanding sidewall and extending radially therefrom, the flange having a lower surface including a plurality of perforation grooves formed therein; and a plurality of warning signs each having descriptive indicia marked thereupon, each of the warning signs being fixedly positionable upon the upper surface of the base, the system warning manhole workers of potentially dangerous situations within a manhole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Inventor: David B. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5839852
    Abstract: The invention provides a road spillway comprising a porous removable deck over a ditch across a road. The road has a surface for driving on. Solid supports are provided on opposite sides of the ditch and below the surface of the road. Span members span the ditch generally below the surface of the road, removably resting on the solid supports. Deck members are positioned above, and attached to, the span members. A rigid grader bar may be attached to the top of the deck members, spanning the porous deck. The span members and deck members form a porous deck resting on the supports and spanning the ditch. The deck has a top for driving on which is generally at the level of the surface of the road. A settling pond may be provided in fluid communication with the ditch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Inventor: Jack Mattson
  • Patent number: 5803662
    Abstract: An elongate drainage channel capable of receiving runoff from an athletic surface is provided which includes a bottom wall and a pair of sidewalls extending upwardly from the opposed sides of the bottom wall. The drainage channel also includes a projection extending transversely outwardly from the exterior of at least one of the sidewalls and spaced at a predetermined distance below the open top for defining a height to which a subsurface layer is applied adjacent to the drainage channel. The projection is also fracturable from the sidewall so as to act as a mechanical fuse to prevent vibratory or tamping machinery from damaging the drainage channel. In another embodiment of the invention, an elongate channel section is provided which has a bottom surface which includes end portions which are shaped as generally planar reference surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Assignee: ABT, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles E. Gunter
  • Patent number: 5753340
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to composites and multi-composites of a prefabricated core of a cellulosic honey comb filled with a rigid polyurethane and layers of fiber saturated thermoset resins. More specifically, the present invention is directed to composites and multi-composites of a cellulosic honey comb filled with rigid polyurethane prefabricated core and a fiber reinforced material, either fibers or woven fibers selected from the group consisting of glass, polyester, carbon and aramid fibers as a mat or cloth saturated with a thermoset resin selected from the group consisting of catalyzed polyester, amine catalyzed epoxy, catalyzed vinyl ester and acid catalyzed furan resins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Assignee: Welch-Sluder IP Partners
    Inventors: William L. Welch, Don W. Sluder, Richard L. Cory
  • Patent number: 5718537
    Abstract: A polymeric trench drain for use in a trench drain system. The trench drain includes an open-faced channel having a crushing rib. The crushing rib prevents buckling of the trench drain due to changes in temperatures. The trench drain also includes removable spacer blocks for use during installation, which prevent the trench drain channel from deforming during installation. Rebar clips and securement clips are provided for easy installation. A unique profile is provided on support ribs to assist in easy stacking of the trench drains prior to installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1998
    Assignee: Zurn Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Allen R. Becker, Michael A. Funari, Donald A. Kubiak
  • Patent number: 5702204
    Abstract: An apparatus for connecting and aligning frame member sections of a trench with a connector is disclosed according to the present invention. The connector may include horizontal and vertical panel sections each defining a pair of openings therein. Protrusions extending from the ends of the adjacent frame member sections are inserted into the openings to securely connect the frame member sections together. The frame member sections may have a protrusion on both horizontal and vertical legs thereof and the connector may include a peripheral edge portion defining an edge of each of the openings and further defining a gap in the body portion. The gap allows the protrusion to be inserted in the opening. The peripheral edge portion may include a resilient end segment and a guide surface defined thereby for guiding the protrusion into the opening. The peripheral edge portion may also include a side segment defining a guide edge adjacent to the gap which is tapered to help guide the protrusion into the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: ABT, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles E. Gunter
  • Patent number: 5647692
    Abstract: A resilient edge adapter is provided for defining an edge of a drainable athletic playing surface formed of a moldable material. The edge adapter includes a base portion for cooperably engaging an upper portion of a drainage channel and an upstanding portion extending upwardly from the base portion for restraining the moldable material when applied adjacent to the drainage channel, thereby defining an edge of the athletic playing surface. The upstanding portion may be formed of a resilient and elastically deformable material and the base portion may include an elongate continuous plug portion to cooperably engage a corresponding slot defined in the upper edge of the channel. An edge adapter is also provided which has a pair of upstanding portions extending upwardly from a base portion for forming a running track surface over both opposed edges of a grate. Associated methods for forming athletic playing surfaces are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1997
    Assignee: ABT, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles E. Gunter
  • Patent number: 5647689
    Abstract: An elongate grate capable of securing an edge portion of an artificial turf surface within a drainage channel is provided. The grate includes an elongate central portion defining a plurality of openings to permit runoff from the artificial turf surface to flow into the drainage channel. Connected to at least one exterior edge of the central portion is a downwardly extending wall portion being interior of the exterior edge for applying a downwardly directed engagement force to the edge portion of the artificial turf surface. According to another embodiment of the grate, an elongate slot is integrally defined in the central portion having a width such the edge portion of the artificial turf can be frictionally engaged therein. According to yet another embodiment, a grate is provided with a central portion positioned between opposed edge portions and defines a plurality of openings therein such that an impervious athletic surface can be formed over each of the edge portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1997
    Assignee: ABT, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles E. Gunter
  • Patent number: 5645367
    Abstract: A drainage system includes a conduit connector which is integrally molded within a precast drainage system component in order to provide for the interconnection of a variety of drainage system components, such as drainage channel sections and catch basins. The conduit connector can include a connector body which defines an aperture of a predetermined shape and size which are selected to match and snugly engage the conduit. The connector body further includes at least one locking anchor to secure the connector body against movement relative to the precast component. The locking anchor can include a longitudinal movement resisting anchor and/or a rotational movement resisting anchor. In order to further secure the conduit connector within the precast component, the wall of the precast component is substantially continuous about the conduit connector. In addition, the connector body preferably has a predetermined thickness which is no greater than the thickness of the precast component walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Assignee: ABT, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles E. Gunter
  • Patent number: 5630674
    Abstract: A road surface formed by laying a multiplicity of molded elastic plates 2 each containing a rubber material 6 mixed with an aggregate 7 having anti-wear properties. These elastic plates 2 are laid on a roadbed 3, and are fixed by fixing means 20. Strong adhesive force between this rubber material and the aggregate greatly suppresses peeling of the aggregate 7 from the rubber 6 and prevent formation of pit holes on the surface of the road. The highly elastic nature of the elastic plates prevents plastic deformation and cracks of the road due to vehicle load, suffer little change with temperature variation, providing long-term durability. Accordingly, the frequency of repairs or modifications carried out to improve durability is drastically reduced, and the number of defects is reduced so that the safety of vehicles using the road is increased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1997
    Inventor: Takeo Inaba
  • Patent number: 5613797
    Abstract: An anhydrous viscoelastic buffer joint including a filling of viscoelastic bituminous material between the floor slab including the joint slit and the upper zone covered by the vehicles. The joint further includes drainage and canalization systems for the downflow of water in the zone of the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 25, 1997
    Assignee: Autostrade - Consessioni E Costruzioni Autostrade S.p.A.
    Inventors: Mariano Romagnolo, Gabriele Camomilla