Joint Patents (Class 405/121)
  • Patent number: 10914074
    Abstract: A rain gutter installation device including an expandable rain gutter support and hoist member. The device is constructed to have a transverse cross-sectional area sufficiently large enough to accommodate the sizes and shapes of conventional gutters. The device can include at least one first trough and at least one second trough movable relative to the first trough. The device may expand from about 6 to about 20 feet in length, whereby a considerable length of gutter may be supported in the desired mounting orientation and the likelihood of excessive twisting of the ends of the gutter during hoisting is minimized. As a result, a single installer can install gutter lengths of up to about 60 feet without the assistance of one or more additional installers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2021
    Inventor: Bartley R. Williams
  • Patent number: 10774490
    Abstract: A connecting structure, standard sections, a channel having the standard sections, and an irrigation system are provided. The standard sections each comprise a bottom plate and side plates fixedly connected to both sides of the bottom plate; the three plates form a standard section body in a groove structure. Two ends of the standard section are respectively provided with a male buckle and a female buckle, or the two ends of the standard section are both provided with the male buckle or the female buckle. The male buckle comprises a male buckle connection plate. The female buckle comprises a female buckle connection plate having a U-shaped groove. Moreover, the thickness of the male buckle connection plate matches the width of the U-shaped groove, in order to prevent the male buckle connection plate from coming out of the U-shaped groove of the female buckle connection plate after being inserted therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventors: Xuesong Deng, Hongtao Wang
  • Patent number: 10047512
    Abstract: Embodiments have an accessory rail along the length of each side of a trench drain channel. The accessory rib allows the convenient attachment of accessories to the sides of a channel in order to facilitate the installation of a trench drain, place drain outlets at any convenient place on a channel, and to create right angle joints between two trench drains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2018
    Assignee: Jay R. Smith Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Steven Chromey, Mario L. Stan, Donald E. Priester
  • Patent number: 9725909
    Abstract: A system and devices to clean a rain gutter include a selectively openable end cap provided at an end of a gutter that is configured to be selectively positionable between a closed state and an open state to access an interior of the gutter, and a plurality of debris collecting members configured fit inside the gutter and to be selectively inserted and removed from the gutter in a sliding manner, wherein each of the debris collecting members is configured to be coupled to another of the debris collecting members such that an entirety of coupled debris collecting members may be moved along the gutter by force applied to one end of the coupled debris collecting members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Inventor: Gary Lynn Ward
  • Publication number: 20110135392
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a modular, scalable liquid management system. The disclosed system is modular in that it is assembled from a few primary components. The system is scalable because the primary components are adapted to be re-sized and combined to form a system as wide, deep, and/or long as needed. In various exemplary embodiments, the system is assembled from a plurality of base components and arm components that are tightly connected to form the liquid management system. To resist shifting or separation of system components, the liquid management system is firmly anchored to the ground at multiple locations throughout the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: Penda Corporation
    Inventors: Jason D. Zajicek, Heidi J. Bulgrin, Anthony C. Wangelin
  • Patent number: 7914229
    Abstract: A drain cover portion (100a, 100b) for a linear drainage system which comprises at least two attachment means. The attachment means are provided by at least one a connector attachment means (500) and at least one drain attachment means (700). The connector attachment means (500) is arranged to attach one or more anchor connectors (1002) for connecting an anchor (114) to the drain cover portion (100a, 100b) and/or one or more cover portion connector for connecting said drain cover portion (100a, 100b) to another drain cover portion (100a, 100b). The drain attachment means (700) is arranged to attach a drain portion (200) to the drain cover portion (100a, 100b). Each attachment means is arranged so as to allow the tool-less attachment of a connector/drain section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: ACO Polymer Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Alastair Aubusson, Rob King
  • Publication number: 20100226720
    Abstract: A landscaping channel liner is provided that includes a longitudinally-extending trough having a longitudinally-extending floor located between opposed longitudinally-extending sidewalls extending therefrom. Attachment clips extend longitudinally on each of the sidewalls opposite the floor. Each attachment clip is configured to clasp onto an adjacent attachment clip to hold adjoining channel liners together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2010
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Inventors: Randy J. Meert, Loren R. Graber
  • Patent number: 7758282
    Abstract: An asymmetric corrugated ditch liner is disclosed that is formed with asymmetrical corrugations adapted to control fluid and materials flow through the liner. The asymmetric corrugated ditch liner also includes opposing angled opposing aprons that also having asymmetrical corrugations extending from opposing top edges of the ditch liner in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the liner. Connectors are provided for assembling the asymmetric corrugated ditch liner in a ditch. Anchors also are included for assembling the asymmetric corrugated ditch liner in a ditch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: FastDitch, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Suazo
  • Patent number: 7584929
    Abstract: Elements, couplers, systems, and methods for joining two or more trough members. A locking element for a coupler of a cable trough system includes a member including a first member end configured to be coupled to the coupler, and a second member end. The locking element also includes a locking member including a first portion slidingly coupled to the second member end of the member, and a second portion extending to a point, and a handle member defining a bottom surface and being pivotally coupled to the second member end of the member, the handle member pivoting between locked and unlocked positions. As the handle member is pivoted from the unlocked to the locked position, the bottom surface moves the locking member along the member so that the point of the locking member extends into a spacing formed by the coupler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew D. Ferris
  • Patent number: 7491017
    Abstract: A surface drainage device, in particular a sink tank is provided for connection to a drainage device or similar water-conducting element. At least one wall section of the surface drainage device is provided for connection to the water-conducting element and includes at least one flat section that is made of an elastomeric material, so that it can be adapted for the connection by a simple tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: ACO Severin Ahlmann GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Markus Blaschke
  • Patent number: 7470085
    Abstract: The specification and drawing figures describe and show one or more improved ditch liners removably assembled into an improved ditch liner system. The improved ditch liner system includes a first liner section and a second liner section. Both liner sections are formed with a plurality of tightly peaked arc-and-ridge corrugations. Also included is a novel and unique overlap connection assembly for removably connecting one liner section to another liner section. In addition, various ways for sealing the overlap connection assembly are included. The interconnected system of improved ditch liner sections may be secured in a ditch by one or more removably rods. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure, but this abstract is not to be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of any claim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: FastDitch, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Suazo
  • Patent number: 7357600
    Abstract: A water management system includes a series of corrugation couplers adapted for compressibly connecting and detaching liner sections end to end. Each corrugations coupler is included in successively formed corrugation segments. Each corrugation segment includes two adjacent corrugations, a leading corrugation, and a trailing corrugation. The leading corrugation is formed with a substantially triangular cross-section having a rounded apex (the “extended corrugation”); the trailing corrugation in a corrugation segment is formed with a substantially frustoconical cross-section having a height less than the height of the extended corrugation (the “shortened corrugation”). Also included is a connector for contributing to interconnecting liner sections end-to-end. A compressibly resilient gasket is included for contributing to sealing the liner sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Fast Ditch, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Suazo, Dawn S. Harder
  • Publication number: 20080025798
    Abstract: A drainage channel installation device comprises a channel-securing member and a channel-hanging member. The channel-securing member releasably engages the channel-hanging member and has opposed ends that are adapted to be releasably secured to the opposed side walls of a drainage channel. The channel-hanging-member has both an engaging end that is adapted to releasably engage the channel-securing member and a suspending end that is adapted to receive and retain a suspending member. As a result, when the channel-securing member and the channel-hanging member are releasably engaged, the channel-securing member is releasably secured to the opposed side walls of the drainage channel and the suspending end of the channel-hanging member receives and retains the suspending member, the drainage channel can be suspended from the suspending member for installation of the drainage channel. The drainage installation device is reusable and allows the drainage channel to be positioned within a trench at any desired level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2006
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Applicant: ACO POLYMER PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Derek Humphries, James McConnell
  • Patent number: 7306401
    Abstract: The present invention may be assembled for use in conveying fluids flowing on terrain. A conduit may have two elongated side walls and a bottom connector formed in an approximate V cross section shape. The two elongated side walls may have an upper flange with an edge element that may have an expanded diameter relative to the upper flange thickness. A side panel may have a length that is approximately the same as the two elongated side walls. The side panel may have a groove in each longitudinal edge for attachment to the edge element. The side panel may be attached to a terrain ground structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Silent, LLC
    Inventor: Les L. Linkogle
  • Patent number: 7306402
    Abstract: A landscaping channel liner apparatus is provided having a longitudinally-extending trough and longitudinally-extending receptacles. The longitudinally-extending trough has a longitudinally-extending floor located between opposed longitudinally-extending side walls extending therefrom. The longitudinally-extending trough also has first and second opposed transverse open ends formed from the floor and side walls. Each of the side walls defines a longitudinally-extending edge located opposite the longitudinally-extending floor. A longitudinally-extending receptacle is located on each longitudinally-extending edge and includes first and second transverse open ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Inventors: Loren R. Graber, Randy J. Meert
  • Patent number: 7165914
    Abstract: The specification and drawing figures describe and show one or more improved ditch liners removably assembled into an improved ditch liner system. The improved ditch liner system includes a first liner section and a second liner section. Both liner sections are formed with a plurality of tightly peaked arc-and-ridge corrugations. Also included is a novel and unique overlap connection assembly for removably connecting one liner section to another liner section. In addition, various ways for sealing the overlap connection assembly are included. The interconnected system of improved ditch liner sections may be secured in a ditch by one or more removable rods. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure, but this abstract is not to be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of any claim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: FastDitch, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Suazo
  • Patent number: 7156580
    Abstract: The specification and drawing figures describe and show an interlockable drainage system insertable into a ditch that includes two or more liner sections. Each liner section includes a plurality of corrugations that are asymmetrical. The interlockable drainage system also includes a flared channel extending from opposing edges of the liner sections. A shoulder is formed in the opposing ends of the liner sections. A plurality of bosses is formed on the shoulder. The plurality of bosses on one shoulder is compressibly connectable to the plurality of bosses on an opposing shoulder, thus connecting one liner section to another. A connector is provided for added interconnectability of the plurality of bosses. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure, but this abstract is not to be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of any claim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: FastDitch, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Suazo, Isaac Suazo, Dawn S. Harder, Juan Griego, Julian Suazo
  • Patent number: 7025532
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for lining ditches is provided. The apparatus and method for lining ditches, according to the present invention, includes a plurality of substantially corrugated liner sections, preferably made of a thermoplastic material such as polyethylene. Each liner section is designed to be assembled by detachably engaging ends of ditch liner sections. A sealant that does not bond with the material from which the liner sections are made may also be included. An inlet/outlet channel is included. The inlet/outlet channel is removably connectable with at least one end of a liner section by snapping together the two components. A liner section in the form of a splitter section also is provided. A splitter section permits rerouting the flow of water in a variety of directions through a ditch lined with the apparatus of the present invention. Also, a diverter section is included for diverting water from one flow direction through the ditch to a point or area of application of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: Fast Ditch, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Suazo, Isaac Suazo, Annabelle Suazo, Dawn Suazo Daugherty, Juan Griego, Julian Suazo
  • Patent number: 6991404
    Abstract: A closed modular ditch liner includes a plurality of closed liner sections, a plurality of covers, and at least one alignment key. The cross section of each closed liner section includes at least one trough contour and a single cover retention lip formed on a top end of each side thereof. Each cover is laterally retained between the two cover retention lips. A key slot is preferably formed on at least one side of the closed liner section to receive a single alignment key. However, alignment keys that do not require a key slot may also be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Inventor: James W. Charon
  • Patent number: 6942424
    Abstract: An open modular ditch liner includes a plurality of open liner sections and at least one channel alignment key. The at least one channel alignment key is sized to receive a thickness of two adjacent open liner sections. An erosion barrier insert may be placed between the ends of two adjacent open liner sections. A radius liner insert may be placed between the ends of two adjacent open liner sections. The width of an open liner section may be expanded with a plurality of side connection keys and a plurality of expandable liner sections. A plurality of pitch expandable liner sections may be inserted between the plurality of open liner sections and expandable liner sections. At least one side of the plurality of open liner sections and expandable liner sections may be mitered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Inventor: James W. Charon
  • Patent number: 6880295
    Abstract: A snap lock device is disclosed for hingedly securing an extension to a downspout. The device includes a first member having a head and a shank extending from the head. The shank extends through a first hole defined by the extension and through a second hole defined by the downspout. A second member cooperates with the first member and the second member defines an aperture for the locking reception therein of the shank for locking the extension and downspout together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Scott Frey
  • Patent number: 6860678
    Abstract: A channel system for forming a trench is disclosed that includes a number of precast drainage channel sections and one or more alignment keys for aligning and interlocking adjacent channel sections. Each alignment key includes a base shaped for laterally bridging across a predetermined exterior portion of adjacent bottom walls of the adjacent channel sections. The alignment key also includes first and second opposed, inwardly facing jaw members shaped for longitudinally bridging across a predetermined exterior portion of adjacent first and second sidewalls, respectively, of the adjacent channel sections. Each pair of the jaw members can be carried by a respective base, and can be positioned in a lateral and longitudinal direction relative to the respective base to thereby substantially align and interlock the adjacent channel sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: ABT, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles E. Gunter
  • Publication number: 20040258478
    Abstract: An open modular ditch liner includes a plurality of open liner sections and at least one channel alignment key. The at least one channel alignment key is sized to receive a thickness of two adjacent open liner sections. An erosion barrier insert may be placed between the ends of two adjacent open liner sections. A radius liner insert may be placed between the ends of two adjacent open liner sections. The width of an open liner section may be expanded with a plurality of side connection keys and a plurality of expandable liner sections. A plurality of pitch expandable liner sections may be inserted between the plurality of open liner sections and expandable liner sections. At least one side of the plurality of open liner sections and expandable liner sections may be mitered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2004
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventor: James W. Charon
  • Patent number: 6817807
    Abstract: An open modular ditch liner includes a plurality of open liner sections and at least one alignment key. A substantially concave shape is formed in a top of each open liner section. At least one key slot is preferably formed on at least one side of each open liner section to receive at least one alignment key. The key slot may have an interference fit. An angle may be formed on at least one end of each open liner section. A key block with the same length of a open liner section may be used as an alignment key. A riser block may be used to terminate at least one side of at least one open liner section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventor: James W. Charon
  • Publication number: 20040202510
    Abstract: The specification and drawing figures describe and show one or more improved ditch liners removably assembled into an improved ditch liner system. The improved ditch liner system includes a first liner section and a second liner section. Both liner sections are formed with a plurality of tightly peaked arc-and-ridge corrugations. Also included is a novel and unique overlap connection assembly for removably connecting one liner section to another liner section. In addition, various ways for sealing the overlap connection assembly are included. The interconnected system of improved ditch liner sections may be secured in a ditch by one or more removable rods. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure, but this abstract is not to be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of any claim.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Suazo
  • Publication number: 20040136785
    Abstract: A channel system for forming a trench is disclosed that includes a number of precast drainage channel sections and one or more alignment keys for aligning and interlocking adjacent channel sections. Each alignment key includes a base shaped for laterally bridging across a predetermined exterior portion of adjacent bottom walls of the adjacent channel sections. The alignment key also includes first and second opposed, inwardly facing jaw members shaped for longitudinally bridging across a predetermined exterior portion of adjacent first and second sidewalls, respectively, of the adjacent channel sections. Each pair of the jaw members can be carried by a respective base, and can be positioned in a lateral and longitudinal direction relative to the respective base to thereby substantially align and interlock the adjacent channel sections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Applicant: ABT, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles E. Gunter
  • Patent number: 6722818
    Abstract: A ditch liner system is provided. The ditch liner system includes a plurality of removably engageable corrugated ditch liners. Each of the removably engageable corrugated ditch liners is monolithically formed with a compressibly connectable member at one end, and a coupling channel at the other end. The compressibly connectable member, and the coupling channel, are reciprocally and compressibly connectable. A duct is formed in the compressibly connectable member for insertion of a sealant. A groove is formed in the coupling channel for inserting one or more connectors. An adapter is provided for directing water from the ditch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Fast Ditch, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Suazo, Isaac Suazo
  • Patent number: 6698977
    Abstract: A modular ditch liner have open and closed embodiments. An open modular ditch liner includes a plurality of open liner sections and at least one alignment key. A substantially concave shape is formed in a top of each open liner section. A key slot is preferably formed on at least one side of each open liner section to receive a single alignment key. A closed modular ditch liner includes a plurality of closed liner sections, a plurality of covers, and at least one alignment key. The cross section of each closed liner section includes at least one trough contour and a single cover retention lip formed on a top end of each side thereof. Each cover is laterally retained between the two cover retention lips. A key slot is preferably formed on at least one side of the closed liner section to receive a single alignment key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Inventor: James W. Charon
  • Patent number: 6692186
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for lining ditches is provided. The apparatus and method for lining ditches, according to the present invention, includes a plurality of substantially corrugated liner sections, preferably made of a thermoplastic material such as polyethylene. Each liner section is designed to be assembled by detachably engaging ends of ditch liner sections. A sealant that does not bond with the material from which the liner sections are made may also be included. An inlet/outlet channel is included. The inlet/outlet channel is removably connectable with at least one end of a liner section by snapping together the two components. A liner section in the form of a splitter section also is provided. A splitter section permits rerouting the flow of water in a variety of directions through a ditch lined with the apparatus of the present invention. Also, a diverter section is included for diverting water from one flow direction through the ditch to a point or area of application of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Fast Ditch, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Suazo, Isaac Suazo, Annabelle Suazo, Dawn Suazo Daugherty, Juan Griego, Julian Suazo
  • 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: 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
  • 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: 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: 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: 5853265
    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: May 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1998
    Assignee: ABT, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles E. Gunter
  • Patent number: 5779393
    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: May 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Assignee: ABT, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles E. Gunter
  • 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: 5662812
    Abstract: A machine tool coolant collection flume system (10) for communicating machine tool coolant from machine tools to a filtration system includes a main trough (12) and a tributary trough (14) intersecting the main trough wherein each trough (12,14) slopes downwardly in the direction of machine tool coolant flow and the main trough (12) has a greater cross-sectional area at the downstream side of its intersection with the tributary trough (14) to smoothly accommodate the additional flow of machine tool coolant from the tributary trough (14) without affecting upstream flow. A single large diameter flush nozzle (20) provides a low velocity high volume forced coolant flow in the main trough (12) upstream of the intersection by the tributary trough (14) to minimize the creation of mist and turbulence downstream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Assignee: Henry Filters, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen N. McEwen
  • Patent number: 5658092
    Abstract: An adjustable extension assembly for a downspout includes a fixed piece attachable to the lowermost end of a downpipe, a rotatable collar attached to the fixed piece, and at least one extension pivotally attached to the rotatable collar. Additional slidable members may be telescopingly attached to the extension. The extension members are channel-shaped in cross-section. The extension may be composed of a polymerized material or a metal. In addition to being easily attached to a downspout, the adjustable extension of the present invention may be selectively adjusted for fitting, for selective water deflection, and for proper lawn maintenance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Inventor: Ronald L. Sweers
  • Patent number: 5573351
    Abstract: A trench liner system used for lining a single containment trench and for forming a dual containment trench from a single containment trench comprising a primary liner means within the trench supported by a separating means between the primary liner and the trench walls and bottom, and a means for holding the primary liner means and the separating means to the trench walls. The separating means comprises a plurality of pairs of elongated members disposed along the trench such that the rear surface of each elongated member is in contact with one wall of the trench and the underside surface of each member is in contact with the bottom of the trench. The elongated members are in opposed relationship to each other. The length of the lower portion of each elongated member is less than one-half the width of the bottom of the trench so that a gap is formed between the distal edges of the lower portions to position therein a means for detecting a leak in the primary liner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Assignee: Hoosier Group, L.L.C.
    Inventor: John V. Beamer
  • Patent number: 5573350
    Abstract: A method for cutting first and second complementary foamed plastic bodies of a predetermined shape from a single workpiece includes the step of moving a linear cutting element through the workpiece. The linear cutting element, such as a heated wire, is moved through the workpiece to form a first surface which forms a portion of the predetermined shape of the first and second foamed plastic bodies. The workpiece is thereafter shifted in position relative to the linear cutting element and the linear cutting element is again moved through the shifted workpiece to form a second surface. Due to the shifting of the workpiece, the first surface is sloped relative to the second surface. The first and second foamed plastic bodies are preferably first and second trench forms defining the shapes of different sections of a trench drain which has a continuously sloped bottom surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Assignee: ABT, Inc.
    Inventor: Lannie L. Stegall
  • Patent number: 5553973
    Abstract: Flumes for manhole inverts are described and formed of integrally molded segments which interfit with each other so as to connect inlets to an outlet of a manhole independent of the shape and size of the manhole. The flumes are made in a set and in one set the flumes are formed of a pipe segment which either is integrally connected to an open channel segment or connected thereto with suitable fasteners and with the overall length of the flume being substantially less than the distance between the inlet and an outlet of the manhole. Another set of flumes has only open channel segments which are generally substantially smaller in length than the flumes which have both a pipe and an open channel segment. The open channel segments are provided with end flanges to enable their connection to similarly shaped channel segments to form inverts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1996
    Inventor: Lee Duran
  • Patent number: 5501547
    Abstract: A modular assembly of channel sections (2) is disclosed which are connected to one another for providing a drainage system by a shutter coupling between a groove 24 formed at one end of any channel section and a rib (6') formed at the other end. Channel section (2) has a modular construction as it is provided with a number of parallel ribs (6') extending in a plane perpendicular to the length of the section at regular intervals so that the length of the final assembled channel can be changed by varying the coupling of the sections. Further anchoring ribs (6) are provided near ribs (6'). A shutter head member (26) coupled at either end of channel section (2) and having a dead but easily pierceable pipe fitting (30) is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Assignee: First Plast S.R.L.
    Inventor: Giulio Mantelli
  • Patent number: 5315090
    Abstract: An elongate channel member is arranged for mounting to a front wall of an awning to direct rainwater therefrom. The channel is arranged to include spaced lug members, having support apertures to each receive a fastener for securement of the channel to the awning member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1994
    Inventor: John D. Lowenthal
  • Patent number: 5300220
    Abstract: A machine tool coolant collection flume system (10) for communicating machine tool coolant from machine tools to a filtration system includes a main trough (12) and a tributary trough (14) intersecting the main trough wherein each trough (12,14) slopes downwardly in the direction of machine tool coolant flow and the main trough (12) has a greater cross-sectional area at the downstream side of its intersection with the tributary trough (14) to smoothly accommodate the additional flow of machine tool coolant from the tributary through (14) without affecting upstream flow. A single large diameter flush nozzle (20) provides a low velocity high volume forced coolant flow in the main trough (12) upstream of the intersection by the tributary trough (14) to minimize the creation of mist and turbulence downstream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Assignee: Henry Filters, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen N. McEwen
  • Patent number: 5256000
    Abstract: A system for forming a multi-walled trench comprising a pair of frame members, each having a horizontal section and a section depending from the horizontal section; a holding pan having sidewalls exterior to the depending portion of the frame members, a bottom floor disposed between the sidewalls, and flanges on each sidewall extending parallel to the plane of the horizontal section of the frame member and away from the depending portion; an outer wall disposed within the holding pan having an inside surface and an outside surface, the outside surface of the outer wall engaging at least a portion of the sidewalls and the bottom walls of the holding pan; an inner wall disposed within the outer wall having an inside surface and an outside surface, the inside surface of the inner wall engaging at least a portion of the inner surface of the depending portion of the frame members, and a cavity being formed between the outside surface of the inner wall and the inside surface of the outer wall; means in the cavity f
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1993
    Assignee: Construction Casting Company
    Inventor: John V. Beamer
  • Patent number: 5226748
    Abstract: A clip-type support for use in installing trench drain systems. The clip device has two clip structures spaced from each other along a central web to engage, clamp and support two inter-engaging end portions of adjacent drain channel sections. A middle portion of the clip device separating the two clip structures has two deformable tabs, each located on opposite sides of the web. The tabs have apertures for engaging support rods which support the clip and drain channel sections within a trench in which the trench drain system is being installed. By deforming the tabs, the apertures are aligned relative to the rods thereby allowing the clip to move along the rods to align the adjacent drain channel sections. When the tabs are not deformed, the apertures are not aligned thereby locking the clip in place relative to the rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1993
    Assignee: Aco Polymer Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jorg R. Barenwald, August W. Haupt
  • Patent number: 4954015
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an eavestrough fitting having a molded plastic member with a gasket secured thereto having a unique configuration. The gasket has at least two ribs extending across the molded plastic member and up the sides thereof, with these ribs being sized to form a seal with an appropriately shaped eavestrough inserted within the fitting. The eavestrough is inserted into the fitting and the gasket includes resilient aligning members urging the sidewalls of the inserted eavestrough towards the center whereby the base of the eavestrough is more positively urged into sealing contact with the ribs across the base of the molded plastic member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1990
    Assignee: GSW Inc.
    Inventor: Vince J. McGowan
  • Patent number: 4878782
    Abstract: An alignment and installation strap for a presloped drainage channel run is disclosed wherein the strap includes a body and two arms perpendicular to said body, a spike attachment means on each arm and at least two thread holes with bolts on each arm, the holes being placed so that when the strap is placed over or under two adjacent drainage channel sections one of the bolts on each arm will screw into an indentation on each outside wall of one channel section and the other bolt on each arm will screw into an indentation on each outside wall of the second channel section when the two sections are correctly aligned and the two spike attachment means will accept, slide over and attach to two spikes which may be driven into the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 7, 1989
    Inventors: Thomas B. Beattie, Fred M. Schweinberg, Ronald L. Rutzen