With Downspout Patents (Class 52/16)
  • Patent number: 8475654
    Abstract: Included in this disclosure is a downspout drain filter for rain gutter downspouts. The downspout drain filer comprises elongated housing having an axis, a top portion, and a bottom portion. A transition portion connects the top portion to the bottom portion. The top portion includes an intake opening, a top portion perimeter, a debris opening, a filter attachment location, and a downspout attachment location. The downspout attachment location includes a flexible collar that defines a downspout attachment location perimeter that is less than the top portion perimeter. The bottom portion includes a flexible collapsible body that extends from the transition portion. A connection end is positioned opposite the transition portion as a part of the bottom portion. A filter is positioned in the top portion to direct debris out the debris opening and to permit liquid to pass to the bottom portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Jeffrey E. Smith
  • Patent number: 8464474
    Abstract: This new design assembly consisting of two brackets with a round tube, that is mounted on to the roof fascia, the bracket with a single one side round tube is mounted at the far end of the fascia, and the bracket with the double sided tube is mounted on the fascia approx. 10 feet apart. Using the hole in the end cap install the gutter assembly over the round tube on the bracket so that it rotated freely. Install a rain cover over the bracket. The pin is then removed from the bracket and the gutter assembly rotates from a horizontal location to a down position to clean out leaves and debris. After cleaning, the gutter is rotated back to its horizontal location and the pin is reinserted. The rain water will flow trough the bracket tube and out the downspout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Inventor: Roland S Johnson
  • Patent number: 8438788
    Abstract: A rainwater collection apparatus is formed with an outer sleeve member that is adapted to connect with upper and lower downspout portions, and with an internal colander that is operable to collect and filter the rainwater flowing through the upper downspout portion. The colander has an upper flanged edge that removes water flowing along the inside surface of the downspout, a filter area including a plurality of apertures for the passage of rainwater into a catch basin, and a support flange that rests on a base ledge formed on the outer sleeve to define the catch basin. A discharge spout drains the collected rainwater from the catch basin to a remote storage container. An internal opening in the colander allows the passage of debris and the overflow of rainwater from the catch basin through apertures in the colander for discharge through the lower downspout portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Euramax International, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert B. Bell, John J. McNichol, Joseph K. Wolf, J. Michael Connelly
  • Publication number: 20130111824
    Abstract: Disclosed is a rain gutter system that permits the gutter to be inverted, comprising a section of rain gutter that is supported on either side by a rotating assembly that includes a means of rotating the gutter inline to a downward position. The rotating assembly includes a gearbox that is connected to the gutters, and utilizes a gear mechanism that enables automatic rotation of the gutters. When rotated, the gutters allow loose debris contained therein, such as pine needles and leaves, to fall to the ground without requiring a user to climb to the roof to manually clean an upright gutter. If debris is left behind in the gutter, a hose or power sprayer may be used to clear the gutter of any debris contained therein. Once cleaned, the user may return the gutter to its original position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Samuel Rees
  • Patent number: 8424557
    Abstract: A downspout water collection and overflow system employs a downspout water diversion and overflow device which includes a body displacing a downspout section, and a plate supported in the body. The body, being hollow, has upper, lower and side portions defining top, bottom and side openings. The plate is inclined to extend laterally across the body between the upper and lower portions and through the side opening of the side portion. The plate blocks flow of water directly from the top to bottom opening of the body, diverting water flow through the side opening to a storage tank. The plate divides the side opening into upper and lower passages which allows inflow of water from the upper body portion through the upper passage above the plate to the tank and overflow of water from the tank through the lower passage below the plate to the lower body portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Inventor: Donald J. Russell
  • Patent number: 8404110
    Abstract: An apparatus for diverting rainwater includes a body having a top portion, a bottom portion, and a central portion. A diverter is disposed within the central portion, and has a lower portion and an upper portion. The lower portion of the diverter, together with one or more walls of the body, defines a containment configured to capture rainwater that enters through the top portion. An opening in at least one of the walls of the body is configured to divert rainwater from the containment. The body also includes a bypass flow area extending through the central portion adjacent to, and separate from, the containment, where the bypass flow area has a cross-sectional area that is substantially equal to or greater than a cross sectional area of the top and bottom portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Fiskars Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew P. Block
  • Patent number: 8397435
    Abstract: A top portion (12) of the gutter section (10) is formed with a pair of longitudinally extending, relatively spaced apart ridges (20) and with a plurality of openings (22) disposed on, infront of, in between and behind the ridges (20) for draining rainwater into the gutter (10). A front wall (13) extends downwardly from the top portion (12) and a ledge (14) extends generally horizontally form a lower portion 13B of the front wall (13). The distance D between an upper edge (17) of the front wall (13) and the horizontal ledge (14) is relatively short to improve the versatility and appearance of the cover section 10. The aluminum alloy from which the cover section (10) is formed is relatively thin and the openings (22) in the on the cover section top portion (12) are large enough to facilitate drainage, yet small enough to keep debris from accumulating on the cover section (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventor: Anthony M. Iannelli
  • Patent number: 8397746
    Abstract: A system for rainwater harvesting includes a rain barrel adapted for collecting and storing rainwater runoff gravity-fed from a rooftop through a downspout. A substantially rigid downspout diverter comprises an inlet section, an overflow section, and an elongated connector section interconnecting the inlet section and the overflow section. The inlet section has a first end adapted for communicating with an end of the downspout and a second end communicating with an inlet opening formed with the rain barrel. The overflow section has a first end communicating with an overflow opening formed with the rain barrel and a second end extending away from the rain barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: The Green Rain Barrel Incorporated
    Inventor: Joseph W. Taborek
  • Publication number: 20130025213
    Abstract: The present invention is a structural member made of composite material, characterized by comprising a body which is made of a composite material with at least one type of fiber and at least one type of resin; and at least one connection member which is one piece with said body in order to provide connection to another structural member with the same characteristics. The present invention also relates to modular structures like buildings produced using said structural members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: Renco Kompozit Teknolojileri Sanayi ve Ticaret Lim
    Inventor: Sedat Cetindag
  • Publication number: 20120324803
    Abstract: A rainwater catching and plant watering device includes a collecting member forming a rainwater holding area, the collecting member configured to be attached to a portion of a building from which rainwater will flow. There is at least one opening in the collecting member for receiving rainwater flowing from the building. A flow connector directs rainwater in the water holding area to plants or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventors: Selby Sullivan, Ronald G. Presswood, JR.
  • Publication number: 20120304549
    Abstract: A system of prefabricated modular components, designed to fit and connect together using no tools other than human hands, allowing persons with little or no construction experience to assemble floored/partitioned/roofed structures of variable shape and surface area. Flooring panels are inserted and secured into flooring frames that have been inserted and secured into frame connectors. Flooring frames may be anchored into an outdoor installation surface for long term use. Certain configurations of the frame connector allow for the installation of variable height partition supports, as well as partition panels. A special configuration of the flooring frame allows for wheeled implement/conveyance access to the floored surface from the surrounding surface. Open, unfloored areas may be created within the periphery of a structure. Roof Panels are installed onto and supported by Roof Brackets, Roof Beams and Integrated Gutter Sections. Precipitation is conveyed to Downspout Pipes and Fittings via Downspouts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2011
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Inventor: Richard Bruce Rutledge
  • Patent number: 8322083
    Abstract: An articulating downspout assembly for a downspout system of a building has an elbow component and an end component each having an integrated or integral configuration that cooperatively join with each other to form a hinge. The hinge allows the end component to pivot between a prone position and an upright position. In the upright position the end component is at an angle relative to the elbow component such that a downspout extension section coupled to the end component leans toward and/or against a vertical downspout portion of the building's downspout system. This prevents the end component and thus the downspout extension from spontaneously falling (pivoting) back to the prone position. The integrated configuration of the elbow component is characterized by one or more configured slots while the integrated configuration of the end component is characterized by one or more configured tabs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Lynch Aluminum Mfg. Co.
    Inventor: Wayne Kessler
  • Patent number: 8316585
    Abstract: A gutter cover having a foraminous central portion with a first side structure and a second side structure, the first side structure having an upwardly extending wall portion, a downwardly extending wall portion merging with the upwardly extending wall portion, and a flange portion extending outwardly from the downwardly extending wall portion, the second side structure having an upwardly extending portion and a flange arrangement associated with the second side structure, the foraminous central portion being formed of a flexible material to permit the central portion to bend to permit placement of the gutter cover in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Inventor: Stephane Brochu
  • Publication number: 20120279583
    Abstract: A device for being received within a downspout of a rain gutter assembly is provided. The device is configured for being received in a downspout of the type having an inlet at a top portion thereof and an outlet at a bottom portion thereof. The device includes a housing defining a longitudinally extending passageway for allowing flow of uncollected water therethrough, at least one laterally extending collection aperture defined in the housing for allowing flow of collected water therethrough, a collection chamber in communication with the at least one drain for collecting water, and a drain outlet in communication with the chamber for allowing flow of collected water therethrough. A storage tank such as a flexible bladder may also be provided. The storage tank may be in communication with a siphon pump assembly. The storage tank may also be provided with a camouflaging pattern and ultraviolet and rot resistant materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventor: Paul Bradley Forrest
  • Patent number: 8292198
    Abstract: The present invention features a lawn sprinkling system, which comprises a gutter disposed along the side of a building structure, a sprinkler head disposed within the gutter, a water supply, and a water supply pipe. The water supply pipe is disposed within a recess alongside the down spout, and water supply pipe fluidly connects to the sprinkler head and to the water supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventors: Francisco Sanchez, Luis Sanchez
  • Patent number: 8286390
    Abstract: A removable downspout system for use with conventional gutter systems includes a spout mated with a gutter of the gutter system, a box mated with a downspout for the gutter system, and components for removably mating the downspout fitted with the box to the gutter fitted with the spout. The spout and the box mate with one another, as nested structures, to prevent leakage at the junction between the spout and the box. A base is provided for attaching the downspout to the receiving structure, and a clip cooperates with the base for removably retaining the downspout to the base. As an alternative, a support structure is provided for mating the downspout with an underground system of pipe, and is fitted over the entrance to the underground system of pipe. A clamp is also provided for attaching the downspout to the receiving structure, in cooperation with a clip for removably retaining the downspout to the clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventor: Kevin N. Leahy
  • Publication number: 20120240480
    Abstract: The invention is a retractable gutter system that allows the gutter to be moved under the eaves in climates that are typically below freezing, to prevent an ice dam from forming under the eaves, and at times when leaf debris risks clogging the gutter. Slide retainers are affixed to the soffit and the gutter affixed to the extendible slides held in the slide retainers. The gutter is slidable between a first position in which the gutter is placed at the drip edge and a second position in which the gutter is stowed away under the eaves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventor: Robert K. Hutchings, JR.
  • Patent number: 8261493
    Abstract: A gutter protection device includes an elongated frame having opposite first and second edge portions, opposite first and second end portions, an elongated recessed portion in a medial portion thereof, and one or more insert panels removably secured within the recessed portion. The recessed portion extends from the frame first end portion to the frame second end portion, and includes a plurality of gutter access openings arranged longitudinally in end-to-end spaced-apart relationship. Each insert panel is removably secured within the frame recessed portion, and includes opposite first and second edge portions, opposite end portions, and opposite upper and lower surfaces. Each panel includes a plurality of spaced-apart openings formed therethrough that permit water to flow into a rain gutter. A filtering screen is secured to the insert panel lower surface and covers the insert panel openings. The filtering screen is configured to prevent the passage of debris therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Phalanx Gutter Guard, LLC
    Inventor: Shane Hedrick
  • Patent number: 8234819
    Abstract: The invention relates to means and methods for maintaining a gutter assembly either in the upward, rain-gathering position or in the downward position under the eaves, where it can be cleaned with a water jet. In the downward position, the gutter assembly remains protected from snow and ice sliding from the roof. Brackets fixated to magnetic latches attached to the fascia support the gutter. Closed magnetic latches maintain the gutter assembly in the upward position. Open magnetic latches maintain the gutter assembly in the downward position. Transition from the upward to the downward position, or vice versa, is achieved from the ground by means of a hook and a U-shaped fork attached to a pole. If the gutter is left in the upward position in winter, snow and ice sliding from the roof will push it to the downward position without damaging it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Dimitri Petrov Consultants Inc.
    Inventor: Dimitri Petrov
  • Patent number: 8215080
    Abstract: A gutter assembly for collecting and channelling rainwater run-off from a roof structure, including: one or more elongate gutter members; at lease one mounting bracket for pivotably mounting each gutter member at the roof structure such that each gutter member is movable between an in-use collecting and channelling position and a substantially inverted cleaning position; and, at least one actuator which acts on one or more gutter members to move the gutter member by generating a pushing force to pivot the gutter member about the mounting bracket to the cleaning position and pulling force to cause the gutter member to return to the in-use position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: No-Sweat Gutters P/L
    Inventors: Raibeart W. McNeish, Liem Rossney
  • Patent number: 8201369
    Abstract: A conduit adapter system enables routing of conduit through one or more structural members of width W with minimal weakening of the structural member or members, and includes a first section of conventional round conduit on one side of the structural member or members, and a second piece of round conduit on an opposite side of the structural member or members, and a bridge conduit section of sufficient length to pass through the structural member or members, the bridge conduit section having a symmetrical cross-section with a first dimension significantly less than a second dimension, and an area at least as large as the area of the round conduit sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Inventor: Arthur Raymond Coughlin
  • Patent number: 8176687
    Abstract: A gutter system is provided to guard a gutter from the entry of leaves, debris, pine needles, twigs, and the like, and to prevent water and animals from entry. In at least one embodiment, a hanger bracket is configured to secure a gutter to a building, and configured to secure an upper gutter cover and a lower gutter cover, in a tiered, stair-step manner, to the gutter. In another embodiment a gutter system is provided that includes a gutter, an upper gutter cover, a lower gutter cover, and a hanger bracket configured to secure the gutter to a building having a roof and rainwater runoff, and configured to secure the upper gutter cover and the lower gutter cover, in a tiered, stair-step manner, to the gutter. In yet another embodiment a method for protecting gutters from debris other than rainwater runoff is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventor: Ramon R. Roque Alonso
  • Patent number: 8136304
    Abstract: The Downspout Claw is made of clear plastic which enables one to see any debris which may have collected on its fingered protrusions inside the downspout pipe. The Claw may be used as a secondary or additional device to collect debris in the downspout pipe. The invention may be removed, cleaned and replaced without the need of any tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Inventor: Jozsef Sternbach
  • Publication number: 20120042580
    Abstract: In an embodiment, a deck drainage system has a water-receiving structure locatable under the deck and a gutter connectable to the deck adjacent to an end of the water-receiving structure for receiving water from the water-receiving structure. The water receiving structure comprises a plurality of interconnected troughs. Each trough of the plurality of interconnected troughs includes first and second opposing sidewalls. The first sidewall of a respective trough comprises a tab and a second sidewall of the respective trough comprises a channel. The tab of the first sidewall of a first trough of the plurality of interconnected troughs extends into the channel of the second sidewall of a successively adjacent second trough of the plurality of interconnected troughs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2010
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Inventor: Rodney Manson
  • Patent number: 8097151
    Abstract: The device disclosed is an improved water harvesting device providing the capability of diverting debris away from a water entry area and reducing potential for clogging of the water entry area. The water harvesting device comprises a tank portion for containment of water and a water entry portion for receiving water, particularly rainwater from a building water collection system such as an eaves and downspout configuration. Debris typically accompanying rainwater as it exits from the downspout of the building collection system is diverted away from the water entry area allowing for better water collection efficiency, preventing backing of water and reducing operator maintenance of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Green Ripple Innovations Inc.
    Inventor: Scott William Allan
  • Patent number: 8075765
    Abstract: Non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein include components of a rain water collection system and methods of fabricating the components. The disclosed components include a down spout interface bladder and a rain water holding device. Also disclosed are a method of fabricating a down spout interface bladder and a method of fabricating a rain water holding device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Seattle Tarp Company
    Inventor: Deano Perlatti
  • Patent number: 8033058
    Abstract: An apparatus for diverting rainwater includes a body having a top portion, a bottom portion, and a central portion. A diverter is disposed within the central portion, and has a lower portion and an upper portion. The lower portion of the diverter, together with one or more walls of the body, defines a containment configured to capture rainwater that enters through the top portion. An opening in at least one of the walls of the body is configured to divert rainwater from the containment. The body also includes a bypass flow area extending through the central portion adjacent to, and separate from, the containment, where the bypass flow area has a cross-sectional area that is substantially equal to or greater than a cross sectional area of the top and bottom portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Fiskars Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew P. Block
  • Publication number: 20110239547
    Abstract: The present invention provides a gutter assembly configured for removing water from a structure. The gutter assembly is also configured to be moved to a position for accessible cleaning. The gutter assembly includes a trough having an opening configured to provide for the flow of water from the trough. A downspout is positioned near the trough and configured to convey water away from the trough. The trough and the downspout are configured to move together between a raised position and a lowered position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventor: Ross Dean Port
  • Publication number: 20110232766
    Abstract: A rainwater collection apparatus is formed with an outer sleeve member that is adapted to connect with upper and lower downspout portions, and with an internal colander that is operable to collect and filter the rainwater flowing through the upper downspout portion. The colander has an upper flanged edge that removes water flowing along the inside surface of the downspout, a filter area including a plurality of apertures for the passage of rainwater into a catch basin, and a support flange that rests on a base ledge formed on the outer sleeve to define the catch basin. A discharge spout drains the collected rainwater from the catch basin to a remote storage container. An internal opening in the colander allows the passage of debris and the overflow of rainwater from the catch basin through apertures in the colander for discharge through the lower downspout portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventors: Robert B. Bell, John J. McNichol, Joseph K. Wolf, J. Michael Connelly
  • Patent number: 8006441
    Abstract: The present invention is an improved method of making cornice assemblies and other trim members utilizing the process of pultrusion. The cornice assemblies and the other trim members made by the method of the present invention exhibit superior strength to weight ratios, low expansion and contraction due to changes in temperature and humidity, as well being less labor intensive to install.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: PN II, Inc.
    Inventor: William J. Pulte
  • Patent number: 8006720
    Abstract: A downspout flow diverter for diverting water from a gutter downspout to an alternate location outside the downspout. A first embodiment of the downspout flow diverter comprising a diverter plate pivotally supported from a main body, and a sliding jacket disposed for sliding engagement with the main body, wherein the position of the diverter plate is responsive to the position of the sliding jacket. The first embodiment of the downspout flow diverter further comprising a seepage barrier, defining a drain void, for channeling water seepage from around the stowed diverter plate, back into the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Kenneth S. Kotansky
  • Publication number: 20110203191
    Abstract: A drain box includes a housing having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion generally defines a cavity and has a bottom wall that extends below a plane defined by a generally flat roof of a building. The second portion is laterally adjacent to the first portion. The second portion has a bottom wall that extends along a portion the roof. A downspout guard is located within the cavity. The downspout guard includes a water-porous material located entirely within the first portion of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Applicant: PARAINO, INC.
    Inventor: Gregg ARGENTINA
  • Publication number: 20110173897
    Abstract: An apparatus and method provides for protecting a downspout elbow or extension of a rain gutter from suffering and inflicting harm. The apparatus has a protective outer surface to guard against one or more sharp edges or surfaces of the downspout elbow or extension from suffering or inflicting harm. Methods of protecting the downspout elbow or extension include at least elastically deforming, sliding, rolling, or inverting a portion or all of the apparatus onto the opening and adjacent portions of the downspout elbow or extension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2011
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventor: STACEY SCHNEIDER
  • Patent number: 7971602
    Abstract: Systems and methods for collecting, storing, and redistributing water, which systems and methods make use of building foundations and surface concrete slab structures. A variety of rainwater collectors are anticipated, including rooftop collection systems (e.g., gutters) and ground surface covering structures (driveways, sidewalks, parking lots, and patios). These collection systems are joined together in a collection conduit system that carries the rainwater to one or more rainwater containment vessels. The stored water may then be redistributed, again through a variety of distribution means, to address part or all of the landscape watering requirements of the property. The system takes advantage of standard foundation and slab construction techniques to establish a major portion of the structure required for the containment vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: David Lewis
  • Patent number: 7958680
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for connecting to the down spout of a gutter system to slow, disrupt, diffuse and absorb energy from runoff water to thereby eliminate erosion and destruction of surrounding landscaping is beneficial and desirable. The apparatus has an enclosure for passing runoff water therethrough. At least one upwardly extending baffle is used to slow and disrupt water from the down spout and at least one downwardly extending baffle is also used to slow, disrupt and diffuse runoff water from the down spout. The upwardly extending baffle and the downwardly extending baffle are for managing runoff water from the down spout to prevent erosion and destruction of surrounding landscaping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Inventor: Dennis DeNooy
  • Patent number: 7950187
    Abstract: A top portion (12) of the gutter section (10) is formed with a pair of longitudinally extending, relatively spaced apart ridges (20) and with a plurality of openings (22) disposed on, in front of, in between and behind the ridges (20) for draining rainwater into the gutter (10). A front wall (13) extends downwardly from the top portion (12) and a ledge (14) extends generally horizontally form a lower portion 13B of the front wall (13). The distance D between an upper edge (17) of the front wall (13) and the horizontal ledge (14) is relatively short to improve the versatility and appearance of the cover section 10. The aluminum alloy from which the cover section (10) is formed is relatively thin and the openings (22) in the on the cover section top portion (12) are large enough to facilitate drainage, yet small enough to keep debris from accumulating on the cover section (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Inventor: Anthony M Iannelli
  • Patent number: 7946081
    Abstract: A cover assembly for an eaves trough that is connected to a structure for receiving water from the structure includes an elongate body having a plurality of apertures extending therethrough and an upper fastening structure that connects the body to the structure. The elongated body at least partially overlies the structure and the eaves trough to prevent debris from entering an interior of the eaves trough. The apertures overlie the eaves trough such that water travels from the structure onto the body and through the apertures to the interior of the eaves trough. The upper fastening structure has a longitudinally extending first channel member that is connected to the structure, and an upper engaging member disposed on the body near a first longitudinal edge thereof. The upper engaging member is releasably engageable with the first channel member to releasably secure the first longitudinal edge of the body to the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Inventor: Michael J. Frederick
  • Patent number: 7919002
    Abstract: Most commercial & residential buildings have rainwater collection systems that consist of leaders and gutters that collect water coming off the roof. These leaders and gutters are connected to drain pipes that channel the water away from the structure, usually into a dry well or storm drain. A substantial add-on to the leader and gutter system is a debris trap with an overflow port. The debris trap/overflow port may be attached to the leader at waist height (for easy access) to collect leaves, tree droppings, windblown litter and other materials. This debris can be easily discarded by opening an access panel to empty a built-in strainer. When a dry well or storm drain becomes saturated, water will back up through the leader causing seepage and overflow into the building and create erosion that can damage the foundation. The function of the overflow port is to divert water from the drain pipe away from the foundation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Inventor: Jim Hurtado
  • Publication number: 20110067319
    Abstract: Using two new integral component types, RGRS provides an effective way from the ground to rotate and clean rain gutters. The Rotating Bracket attaches to the fascia board and maintains the normally upright gutter. A self-closing hinge in the rotating bracket provides retention yet allows the gutter to be rotated forward 180 degrees for cleaning. The Collector Box located directly under the gutter floor is secured to the fascia board and connects to a standard downspout. The collector box captures water from a drain hole in the gutter floor and directs it into the downspout. There is no connection between the gutter and collector box. Using a third non-integral component, comprised of an actuation rod/cleaning brush tool attached to an extendable telescopic pole, an operator at ground level can rotate, manually clean (if gravity can not dislodge wet contents present) and upright the gutter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Inventor: John Harrison Anthony
  • Patent number: 7909274
    Abstract: A device for reducing clogging of a gutter comprises a housing which fits in a gutter over the downspout. The device contains a motor-driven grinder mechanism which grinds up waterborne leaves and other debris passing through the housing, preferably as they exit through the outlet of the housing to the downspout. Preferably, the device also includes a plunger mechanism which helps push water and debris in the housing through the grinder mechanism. Also, preferable the device includes a water sensor and a debris sensor for operating the motor only when both water and debris are present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Migliaccio
  • Publication number: 20110056144
    Abstract: The present invention in several embodiments is an arrangement of components that work together to hide the attachment screws for drainage channels behind the exterior siding. The drain exit for this system is larger for a greater volume of runoff. This helps reduce and/or eliminate wood wrought of the roof top eaves caused by traditional exterior wall-mounted drainage systems. The entire corner cap is preferably an open channel. There is preferably a left side and a right side application. Preferably a spray on rubberized coating is applied to the surface contacting the wall of the building to prevent water from damaging the building. This system is ideal for any residential and most commercial uses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: JOHN E. HICKS
  • Patent number: 7895793
    Abstract: A downspout assembly includes a downspout, a downspout extension disposed in fluid communication with the downspout and a strainer basket seated in the downspout extension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Yates
  • Publication number: 20110041416
    Abstract: Rainwater diverter comprises a base member and a sleeve member. The base member includes a tubular conduit having an upper end and a lower end sized to closely fit within an upper end of a lower downspout section. Surrounding the tubular conduit is a fluid chamber having an open upper end and a closed bottom, and a discharge opening adjacent the bottom. The sleeve member has a lower end sized to have a close sliding fit inside the open upper end of the chamber, and an upper end sized to have a close sliding fit over a lower end of an upper downspout section. The sleeve member is shaped to provide a narrow gap between the sleeve member and the upper end of the tubular conduit leading into the chamber surrounding the tubular conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2010
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventors: Matthew L. Schmidt, Robert P. Shade
  • Patent number: 7891143
    Abstract: An interlocking gutter system that incorporates a gutter clip and a gutter hanger to affix a gutter to a retaining clip attached to a fascia board of a building, thereby eliminating the need to place holes in the gutter itself to insert screws or nails. The gutter hanger of the present invention is constructed of a single piece which has a hanger portion which is disposed substantially within the gutter and spans the width of the gutter to maintain the shape and structural integrity of the gutter. A vertical portion of the gutter hanger extends vertically from the hanger portion and terminates in a top portion which provides support to a leaf protection device. Alternatively, the gutter hanger is constructed of a hanger portion, and a separate vertical portion which is contiguous with the top portion, and is also removably attachable to the hanger portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Karl J. Gramling
  • Patent number: 7891907
    Abstract: Drainage device having an inlet having at least three substantially straight sides with rounded corners linking the at least three substantially straight sides. The sides and corners taper to form a circular outlet. The rounded corners are upper edges of channels of the device, and the channels are depressions in the sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Enverflow Ltd.
    Inventor: John Anthony Smith
  • Patent number: 7883038
    Abstract: A device for reducing clogging of a gutter comprises a housing which fits in a gutter over the downspout. The device contains a motor-driven grinder mechanism which grinds up waterborne leaves and other debris passing through the housing, preferably as they exit through the outlet of the housing to the downspout. The grinder mechanism preferably comprises one or more rotary type blades located above an inlet of the downspout. The device may also include a plunger mechanism which helps push water and debris in the housing through the grinder mechanism. Also, preferable the device includes a water sensor and a debris sensor for operating the motor only when both water and debris are present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Migliaccio
  • Patent number: 7870868
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for capturing filtered rainwater during wet weather, storing the filtered rainwater in an elevated storage tank, conveying the filtered rainwater by gravity to a toilet tank and controlling its introduction into the toilet tank. The apparatus preferably comprises an inline filter for installation in a horizontal or sloping section of a rain gutter, a storage tank that is mountable at an elevation higher than the elevation of the toilet tank, water transfer tubing or piping for conveyance of filtered rainwater to the storage tank, water supply tubing or piping for conveyance of stored water to the toilet tank, and a control valve for introducing the stored water into the toilet tank when it is needed. In a preferred embodiment, the components of the apparatus are provided to the consumer in the form of an easily installed kit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Inventor: Gary K. Ilalaole
  • Publication number: 20110000142
    Abstract: The present invention describes systems and methods which provide a moisture barrier that douses or diffuses buoyant burning debris, particularly hot embers, from a bush and/or brush fire (e.g., wildfires). By strategic placement of the devices and/or apparatus as disclosed, a method of preventing the destruction of dwellings and roof-containing structures by exploiting heat convection is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2009
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Inventor: My Bui
  • Publication number: 20100281784
    Abstract: A building process that offers better qualities in terms of value, structural integrity, and comfort and energy conservation for industrial, commercial and residential building industries. The present invention starts with a single component which is the vertical composite insulated supporting steel members, then the plates, the beams, the composite insulated wall system, the floor joist system, the temperature regulated roof system and the multiple insulation patterns to create the active thermal force air cavities and inactive cavities. The entire concept of utilizing the invention is that the design of all of the components and parts, the objectives are focused on to facilitate the prefabrication process and conserve energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventor: Ano Leo
  • Publication number: 20100263295
    Abstract: A water collection system blocks down-pipes to collect water from a roof. A down-pipe (27) is located adjacent a rain water diversion unit (31). The unit comprises a box (36) with the down-pipe (27) fitted to an opening (37) in bottom (38) of the box (36). The gutter (14) has two side-by-side openings (39 and 40), the opening (40) has an overflow in the form of upstanding wall (41) while the opening (39) has a valve plate (42) hinged to the front edge at (43). A pneumatic actuator (44) is used to move the valve plate (42) to the closed position. When the valve is closed, the opening (40) and the upstanding wall (41) serve as an overflow back to the stormwater via the box (36). The tank pipe (17) also has an opening (45) with an upstanding wall (46) which has its upper edge (47) set lower than the upper edge (48) of the wall (41) of the overflow. All down-pipes are fitted with diversion units.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2007
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Mark Brendan Flanagan