Overflow Opening Attachment Patents (Class 4/694)
  • Patent number: 11814832
    Abstract: An overflow system for concealing an overflow conduit of a bathtub includes a nut and a cover. The nut has an inner mount configured to secure to the conduit that is substantially circular in shape, and an outer mount including a plurality of engagement sections that extend substantially tangential to the inner mount. The inner mount has a thickness that is greater than a thickness of the outer mount, and the outer mount is centered on and integral with the inner mount. The cover is configured to couple to the nut and is substantially square. The cover includes a front wall and a plurality of side walls, each having a first end extending from the front wall and an opposite second end. The second end includes a lip configured to engage with a respective engagement section of the plurality of engagement sections when the cover is coupled to the nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric Pilarczyk
  • Patent number: 11559171
    Abstract: A pet bath may include a tub, a cover connected to an upper rim of the tub, a jet provided in the tub to discharge bubbles, an air outlet provided in the tub to discharge air, and a sterilizer to sterilize the tub. The tub may have a bottom plate that is raised and lowered relative to a bottom frame having a drain and a filter assembly so that liquid in the tub flows between edges of the bottom plate and an inner surface of the tub toward the bottom frame to be drained and filtered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2023
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Hyunsun Yoo, Myongsun Kim, Sungkyung Kim, Joogyeom Kim, Yousook Eun, Jaehung Chun
  • Patent number: 11479986
    Abstract: The present specification discloses a pool overflow drain heightener that prevents pool water from draining through the pool overflow drain during normal usage, yet permits draining during an emergency overflow event. The pool overflow drain heightener includes a dam basin having an upper rim that defines a mouth configured to be positioned above the desired water level and above the lowest point of the pool overflow drain, such that the water level can temporarily or permanently rise above the lowest point, yet not drain from the pool. Excessive water levels will still be able drain through the mouth, and out the overflow drain, thereby preventing overflow of the pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2022
    Assignee: Rocketfrog Designs, LLC
    Inventors: William C. Baggelaar, Stacy Kapp Baggelaar
  • Patent number: 11466439
    Abstract: An adaptor for connecting a cover to an overflow pipe includes an H-shaped body which is installed in an end portion of the overflow pipe. The lengthwise length of the adaptor is not longer than the outer diameter of the end portion of the overflow pipe. The adaptor includes a first connection portion formed to the center of the adaptor, and two second connection portions respectively formed to two ends of the adaptor. Two lateral sides are formed to two sides of the adaptor. The cover includes a notch communicating with the end portion of the overflow pipe. Multiple protrusions extend from the inner bottom of the cover. The protrusions are engaged with the two lateral sides of the adaptor to connect the cover to the adaptor. Bolt(s) extend through first or second connection portions of the adaptor and are connected to the end section of the overflow pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2022
    Assignee: Bridging Partners Corporation
    Inventors: Kuang-Ming Kuo, Chih-Wei Chen
  • Patent number: 11180908
    Abstract: An overflow assembly for a bathtub includes an elbow having a first threaded section and a retainer nut having a second corresponding threaded section. The retainer nut is configured to threadably mount onto the elbow. The overflow assembly further includes an overflow cover including at least one overflow opening and at least one vent opening defined therein. The overflow cover is configured to engage with the retainer nut and substantially cover the first threaded section and the retainer nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2021
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: William T. Ball, Eric Pilarczyk
  • Patent number: 10927534
    Abstract: A bathtub overflow assembly having an overflow elbow exterior to the bathtub's overflow port with an externally threaded cylinder extending axially from the overflow elbow in the direction of the overflow port. The assembly has an overflow elbow retaining structure in the tub comprising a retainer ring having a flange sized to circumscribe the overflow port on the interior of the tub. The retainer ring has a centrally mounted sleeve which extends axially in the direction of the elbow. The sleeve is internally threaded to cooperatively engage the threads on the overflow elbow cylinder and has a length which is sufficient to enable it to overlap the overflow cylinder. An overflow test plug which threadedly mounts to the retainer ring is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: Jones Stephens Corp.
    Inventors: Lloyd Asher Gross, Andrew Neil Gross, Ronald Charles Link, Jr., Gordon Lowell Gross, Anthony Joseph Yanka
  • Patent number: 10563385
    Abstract: An overflow cover interconnection system utilizes an overflow elbow with an upper portion for insertion through an overflow drain hole in a bathtub wall; a nut, ring, or other component that fits on or around the upper portion to secure the overflow elbow in position; and an overflow cap that shields the upper portion and nut, ring, or other component from view of a user of the bathtub. The system is configured for use with bathtubs having varying wall thicknesses, without necessitating any modifications thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: William T. Ball, Eric Pilarczyk
  • Patent number: 10443220
    Abstract: An overflow assembly for a bathtub includes an elbow having a first threaded section and a retainer nut having a second corresponding threaded section. The retainer nut is configured to threadably mount onto the elbow. The overflow assembly further includes an overflow cover including at least one overflow opening and at least one vent opening defined therein. The overflow cover is configured to engage with the retainer nut and substantially cover the first threaded section and the retainer nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2019
    Assignee: WCM INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: William T. Ball, Eric Pilarczyk
  • Patent number: 10225951
    Abstract: The present application discloses a liquid immersion tank of an electronic equipment, which restrains a gas from being mixed in a circulation path even when an outflow port to a circulation path exists in the vicinity of a liquid surface. The liquid immersion tank of the electronic equipment, which is disclosed in the present application, includes a tank body being receivable of the electronic equipment and being connected to the circulation path of a coolant for liquid-cooling the electronic equipment by being immersed in the liquid coolant, and an enclosure including inside an outflow port to the circulation path and receiving an inflow of the coolant overflowing from a liquid surface in the tank body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventors: Shinnosuke Fujiwara, Hideo Kubo
  • Patent number: 9890522
    Abstract: An overflow drain for a tub includes a bracket configured to be located against an inside surface of the tub and connected to an overflow elbow. A first elongated slot is disposed through the bracket. A faceplate is configured to be attached to the bracket. A second elongated slot is disposed through the faceplate. A first knob is movably connected to the faceplate. An elongated seal plate is disposed on the inside of the faceplate and connected to the first knob. The seal plate is configured to move between an open position and a closed position by a movement of the first knob, wherein in the closed position the seal plate is configured to create a watertight seal around either the first or second elongated slots, and wherein in the open position the seal plate is configured to drain a fluid through the first and second elongated slots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventors: Max Homami, Michael Gerard Rohlfs
  • Patent number: 9702129
    Abstract: An overflow for a tub or basin includes a bracket and a movable cover. A water passageway is disposed through the bracket. The cover is attached to the bracket and translatably movable by a user. A drain aperture is disposed through the cover. An edge is disposed along a perimeter of the cover with a channel disposed on an inside edge surface. The bracket includes a flexure or a pin biased by a spring. When the cover is attached to the bracket the flexure or pin is partially disposed within the channel creating a force biasing the cover to remain attached to the bracket. Alternatively, a magnet may be used to bias the cover to the bracket. When the cover is in an open position, water can flow through both the bracket and the cover. When the cover is in a closed position, it blocks the flow of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Inventors: Max Homami, Michael Gerard Rohlfs
  • Patent number: 9339150
    Abstract: A sink overflow hole plug can include a plug body defining an interior chamber, and at least one protuberance extending into the chamber, wherein the protuberance is configured to be received by an external aperture of an overflow prevention channel of a drainage system of a plumbing fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Douglas L. Risko
  • Patent number: 9181686
    Abstract: A trim kit for providing improved aesthetics to a bathroom fixture having a first side and a second side with a housing of a device coupled to the first side. The trim kit includes a mounting plate configured to be coupled to the device on the second side of the fixture, and an escutcheon having an interior surface and an exterior surface. The exterior surface is configured to provide a decorative aesthetic for the trim kit. The mounting plate includes a plurality of tabs. The interior surface of the escutcheon includes a plurality of catches that are each configured to engage with a corresponding catch to allow the escutcheon to be detachably coupled to the mounting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2015
    Assignee: KOHLER CO.
    Inventors: Benjamin Marotz, Murali Natarajan, Andrew Stokes, Lisa Burns
  • Patent number: 8887325
    Abstract: Overflow adapter for raising fluid discharge overflow level of a drain overflow having a drain overflow discharge entrance and a substantially centrally disposed drain overflow connector, the drain overflow installed in a plumbing fixture having a drain, the drain overflow having an optional drain control attached to and working in conjunction with the substantially centrally disposed drain overflow connector, the optional drain control for opening and closing the drain, comprising: an overflow disk having an upper overflow disk discharge opening having opposing substantially concentric arcuate edges and opposing edges transverse to the opposing substantially concentric arcuate edges, an overflow plate having an upper overflow plate hole at least as large as the upper overflow disk discharge opening, a shaft, and a cover or handle fastened to and working in conjunction with the shaft when the optional drain control is installed in the drain overflow for opening and closing the drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventor: Frank Antoniello
  • Publication number: 20140259386
    Abstract: Overflow adapter for raising fluid discharge overflow level of a drain overflow having a drain overflow discharge entrance and a substantially centrally disposed drain overflow connector, the drain overflow installed in a plumbing fixture having a drain, the drain overflow having an optional drain control attached to and working in conjunction with the substantially centrally disposed drain overflow connector, the optional drain control for opening and closing the drain, comprising: an overflow disk having an upper overflow disk discharge opening having opposing substantially concentric arcuate edges and opposing edges transverse to the opposing substantially concentric arcuate edges, an overflow plate having an upper overflow plate hole at least as large as the upper overflow disk discharge opening, a shaft, and a cover or handle fastened to and working in conjunction with the shaft when the optional drain control is installed in the drain overflow for opening and closing the drain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Frank Antoniello
  • Publication number: 20140223658
    Abstract: A lavatory system includes a basin configured to receive at least one faucet, the basin defining a primary drain passage and first and second overflow drain passages; and an overflow adapter configured to be mounted to a rear surface of the basin, the overflow adapter defining an adapter passage such that when the overflow adapter is mounted to the basin, fluid received by way of the first overflow drain passage is directed through the adapter passage between the overflow adapter and the rear surface of the basin and to the second overflow drain passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: Bradley Fixtures Corporation
    Inventors: Scott L. Kempen, Theodore E. Dhein, William L. Haas, Michael D. McLaughlin, Timothy E. Perrin, Robert Michael Piekarski
  • Publication number: 20140223659
    Abstract: A plate is provided for concealing an inlet of an overflow pipe in a bathtub. The plate includes a flange extending along a first portion of a perimeter of a back surface of the plate and not extending along a second portion of the perimeter, such that an opening is provided between the second portion of the perimeter and a surface of the bathtub. The second portion of the perimeter is dimensioned so the overflow water is capable of passing through the opening. The plate farther includes a plurality of inclined surfaces to define a plurality of slots where each slot is disposed between consecutive inclined surfaces. The inclined surfaces are disposed at an angle relative to a normal direction to obstruct a view of the surface of the bathtub through the plate. The inclined surfaces are arranged such that the slots accommodate an air flow through the plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2013
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Inventor: Frank H. Gay
  • Patent number: 8769736
    Abstract: An overflow plate concealing device for bathtubs that is associated with a plate of an overflow system of the bathtub. This aspect of the invention allows the overflow plate to be concealed to allow the user to alter the aesthetic appearance of their bathtub or repair the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Patent number: 8756724
    Abstract: An overflow cover assembly and kit for making same comprising at least a cover piece including a snap on section and a hanger which is configured to engage a bracket crossing and engaged over a port of an overflow system, the hanger mounting to the overflow port bracket using screws from the previous hanger engaged thereto and the cover piece being engaged to the hanger by two screws provided in the kit, the cover assembly accommodating replacement of either one or two screw cover embodiments and being provided in various finishes and in regular size or being oversized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Inventors: Var Lordahl, Bruce L. Graham
  • Patent number: 8635719
    Abstract: A three-position, circularly-shaped, height-adjustable overflow drain is disclosed. A circular back plate includes a bottom half opposite a top half, and is configured to be attachable to an overflow elbow. A first aperture is located in the bottom half of the back plate. A second aperture is located in the top half of the back plate. A rotatable handle comprises an outer cylindrical portion including a center plate. A third aperture is located in the center plate. The first, second and third apertures are aligned along a common radius, wherein the rotatable handle is rotatable to align either the first and third apertures, the second and third apertures, or no apertures. A cover plate is disposed within the rotatable handle and attached to the circular back plate forming an annular gap between the cover plate and the outer cylindrical portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Inventors: Max Homami, Michael Gerard Rohlfs
  • Publication number: 20130031720
    Abstract: A three-position, circularly-shaped, height-adjustable overflow drain is disclosed. A circular back plate includes a bottom half opposite a top half, and is configured to be attachable to an overflow elbow. A first aperture is located in the bottom half of the back plate. A second aperture is located in the top half of the back plate. A rotatable handle comprises an outer cylindrical portion including a center plate. A third aperture is located in the center plate. The first, second and third apertures are aligned along a common radius, wherein the rotatable handle is rotatable to align either the first and third apertures, the second and third apertures, or no apertures. A cover plate is disposed within the rotatable handle and attached to the circular back plate forming an annular gap between the cover plate and the outer cylindrical portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Inventors: Max Homami, Michael Rohlfs
  • Publication number: 20120204345
    Abstract: An overflow plate concealing device for bathtubs that is associated with a plate of an overflow system of the bathtub. This aspect of the invention allows the overflow plate to be concealed to allow the user to alter the aesthetic appearance of their bathtub or repair the same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2012
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Applicant: WCM INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: William T. Ball, Eric Pilarczyk
  • Patent number: 8201289
    Abstract: A control is provided adjacent an overflow of a bathtub or sink. It both remotely controls operation of a basin bottom drain, and provides an option of shutting off flow through the overflow. Rotation of a handle of the control controls the bottom drain, and axial movement of the handle controls flow through the overflow. For example, a clicker-type pop-out valve can control overflow flow. Slot and projection structures restrict use of the overflow shutoff when the drain is not closed, and/or in some circumstances even when the drain is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Cary D. Edmonds, Katherine A. Stanchak, Murali Natarajan
  • Publication number: 20120079654
    Abstract: An overflow plate concealing device for bathtubs that is associated with a plate of an overflow system of the bathtub. This aspect of the invention allows the overflow plate to be concealed to allow the user to alter the aesthetic appearance of their bathtub or repair the same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Applicant: WCM INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Patent number: 7856677
    Abstract: A cover for a bathtub overflow port includes a concave body provided with a circular inner edge maintaining a vacuum seal with an inner surface of the existing bathtub. Such a circular inner edge of the body is removably abutted directly against the inner surface of the existing bathtub during operating conditions. The inner edge of the body creates a vacuum within the body when the inner edge of the body is abutted against the inner surface of the existing bathtub. Such a vacuum statically affixes the body to the inner surface of the existing bathtub during operating conditions. The cover further includes a curvilinear handle provided with axially opposed ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Inventor: Brian Harris
  • Publication number: 20100122411
    Abstract: An overflow sub-assembly consists of an overflow faceplate that slides over and down the overflow tieplate by means of a internal slot mating with a matching flange on the tieplate. This invention requires no fasteners to attach the faceplate to the tieplate, leaving the faceplate free to bear a variety of finishes, including in-mould decorating, conventional plating, mirror finish, texture, and three-dimensional ornament.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventor: Christopher Adam McLeod
  • Publication number: 20100107328
    Abstract: Described is a device and method for blocking or impeding the flow of fluid through the overflow drain of a bathtub. A device may include a stopper configured to wrap around the lower/underside of a variety of shaped overflow drain cover plate(s) and be removably held in place by a suction cups attached to the bathtub wall on either side of the overflow cover plate. The device takes the form of a stopper comprised of a flexible, elongated body of cloth material configured to cover the overflow opening. The same device may also be used as a method for diffusing bubble bath as a bathtub fills with water by pouring bubble bath onto the center of the body of the device, attaching the suction cups to a variety of designed faucets and placing the flexible, elongated body into the flow of the water thereby creating a churning of the water as the bubble bath mixes with the water flowing into the bathtub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Inventor: Jennifer Katherine Brooks
  • Publication number: 20090249542
    Abstract: An overflow drain cover assembly includes a weir that enables a fluid level in a container to rise above the bottom of an overflow drain in the container. The weir covers all or a portion of the overflow drain and has a cavity portion between the weir and the overflow drain. The cavity portion is open at the top of the weir so when the fluid level in the container rises above the top of the weir, fluid can flow over the top of the weir and enter cavity portion and thence into the overflow drain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventor: Gary Uhl
  • Publication number: 20080216229
    Abstract: An overflow gasket for a bathtub and a bathtub liner is disclosed. The bathtub and the bathtub liner are each of the type having an overflow drain in liquid communication with a substantially vertical overflow drain pipe. The gasket of the invention comprises a generally annular, hollow tube defined by a wall. The hollow tube further includes a first end and a second end which each terminate in a circular opening, the first end including a radially-extending circular lip. A longitudinal axis of the tube forms a downward-oriented arc. A circular bracket is included that has a front side, a rear side, and at least one peripheral edge. The rear side is fixed against and substantially overlaps a front side of the lip of the first end of the tube. A circular aperture is formed therein and is generally coaxially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the first end of the tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventor: Timothy Johannes
  • Patent number: 7392553
    Abstract: The present invention provides an overflow drain assembly for a sanitary vessel, wherein the vessel includes a bottom surface and at least one side surface depending therefrom, such that the surfaces together define a reservoir for receipt and storage of fluid thereby and at least one ledge is provided along at least a portion of at least one vessel side surface. The overflow drain assembly comprises a fastening plate having an envelope with a top surface and a bottom surface defining a generally planar body that lies proximate the vessel ledge, and a tarp portion depending curvilinearly therefrom. The tarp portion has a generally planar bottom surface disposed adjacent at least a portion of at least one vessel side surface so as to define a fluid egress therebetween for delivery of fluid from the vessel reservoir to a waste conduit in fluid communication therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: AS IP Holdco, LLC
    Inventors: Gary Uhl, Vincent F. Rotella
  • Patent number: 7237280
    Abstract: An overflow assembly employs an overflow elbow having an externally threaded cylindrical fitting that extends through the tub overflow opening. An internally threaded retainer nut with integrally molded test cap is threadably engaged over the overflow elbow cylindrical fitting to compress gaskets against both the inside and outside surfaces of the tub. A test cap is integrally molded with the retainer nut and joined to the retainer nut by a thin, breakable connection. An undercut lip on the test cap facilitates use of a prying tool to break the thin connection and remove the test cap after testing of the drain plumbing. A trim cap snaps over the retainer nut to provide a finished appearance to the installed overflow assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: The Keeney Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: R. Stuart Holden, Jr., Chris Graham, Frank Pieters
  • Patent number: 7127752
    Abstract: An overflow system in the bathtub has an overflow port and has a drain pipe in connection with the overflow port. A threaded flange has a stub shoulder on one end which is fitted into a circular sleeve on the overflow port. The threaded flange has exterior threads on its outer surface and a thin diaphragm secured to the end thereof opposite to the stub shoulder. A large sealing washer embraces the outside of the circular flange on the overflow port and extends partially over the threads of the threaded flange. A large internally threaded nut is threadably mounted on the outer end of the threaded flange and compresses the sealing washer against a vertical flange on the port to seal the connection between the threaded flange and the port. A decorative cap is frictionally snapped into engagement with protrusions on the outer surface of the nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T Ball
  • Patent number: 7096522
    Abstract: Alarms adaptable to common American bathtub cover plate configurations. Two different embodiments are illustrated. In a first embodiment, the alarm unit is designed to allow use with the three different mounting styles of cover plates used in the United States. The unit housing is preferably formed of plastic or metal with different colors and finishes and includes removable areas to allow use with a single center screw; dual screws or a center pivoting drain lever with dual screws. The various electronics components remain sealed inside the waterproof plastic or metal housing in all instances. In a second embodiment, a waterproof housing attaches to an adapter ring. The adapter ring is configured to cooperate with single center screw and dual screw variations. An alternative adapter ring can be used with European and newer American threaded overflow drains. In the first two embodiments there can be upper and lower sensor(s), preferably a pair of each, to provide initial and critical warnings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Inventor: R. Eric Hirtriter
  • Patent number: 7017199
    Abstract: A plumbing fitting attachable to a wall that defines an opening, comprising a tubular part sized to project through an opening, there being grooving associated with the part; a cover extending in registration with the grooving; and a retainer caused by the cover and projecting to locally engage the grooving, thereby to position the cover in relation to the grooving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Inventors: Robert A. Oropallo, Anthony Oropallo, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7007319
    Abstract: An overflow device for a bathtub with an overflow inlet arranged for mounting in a conventional overflow hole of the bathtub and a valve connected between a water supply and a conventional bath tap. A spring can be used to change the valve from its open state to its closed state. A float and trigger lever can detect water that has entered the overflow inlet and trigger the device to change, using the stored spring energy, from a set state in which the valve is open to a triggered state in which the valve is closed. A manually operable resetting element can be operated by a user to replenish the spring with energy and return the device to the set state. The device can be permanently plumbed in and the bulk of the device can be hidden from view outside the bathtub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Inventors: Andrew Peter Dunnett, Richard Thom
  • Patent number: 6952843
    Abstract: An overflow system is described for a water receptacle (22) such as bathtub, sink or washbasin having a water tap for connection to a water supply. The system includes sensing means, such as a float (14), for sensing an overflow condition of the receptacle, and a supply valve (65) responsive to the sensing means and arranged to close the water supply to the tap. The supply valve may be hydraulically controllable via a control port (68) thereof. A control valve (59) is provided between the water supply and the control port The control valve is responsive to the sensing means so that upon such an overflow condition it open and the pressure of the water supply is applied to close the supply valve. Thus, there is no need for a supply of electricity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Inventor: Andrew Peter Dunnett
  • Patent number: 6901611
    Abstract: A head fitting for a bathtub waste water drainage system is disclosed. The head fitting simplifies leak testing in bathtub waste water drainage system and eliminates the need for a separate test cap and fastening hardware for leak testing. The head fitting includes an internal partition wall and a breakout test plug molded as an integral part of the head fitting. The internal partition wall and breakout test plug initially hermetically seal the flow passage of the head fitting for leak testing the drainage system. The test plug can be broken out from the internal partition wall to open the flow passage after leak testing and without damaging the head fitting. The test plug forms part of the partition wall defined by an annular groove in the partition wall. The groove forms an annular band of relatively thin material (fracture band) that integrally connects the test plug to the partition wall, but allows the test plug to be forcefully separated from the partition wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: J&B Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Allen McEntire, Maynard Searing, Scott Searing, Fred Krolzick
  • Patent number: 6895610
    Abstract: An overflow protected portable bathtub water level control device comprising a main housing having two separate cavities, a flexible suction gasket, an internal float and valve mechanism with an optional temperature gauge for providing a bathtub bather with deeper bathing water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Inventor: Richard C. Olson
  • Patent number: 6845528
    Abstract: For pressure testing a drain and vent piping system communicating with a tub opening having an anchoring structure a plug has a central, axially extending aperture therethrough. The plug has a resilient, compressible portion and is provided with inner and outer ends. An anchor is located at the inner end of the plug and extends axially beyond the inner end to engage with the anchoring structure and seal the tub opening. The test plug assembly also includes a threaded shaft that passes through the aperture in the plug and connects to the anchor. A manually operated threaded actuator is located at the outer end of the plug and is configured for threadingly engaging the shaft to draw the actuator towards the anchor and compress the compressible portion of the plug to block fluid flow through the bath tub opening and permit pressure testing of the drain and vent piping system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Geberit Technik AG
    Inventor: Shannon R. Bantz
  • Patent number: 6836911
    Abstract: A waste and overflow system for a bathtub includes an overflow conduit having a threaded end and an overflow cap threaded at one end extending through the overflow opening in the bathtub into threaded engagement with the threaded end of the conduit. The other end of the overflow cap has a test cap portion removably connected thereto for closing off an overflow passage through the overflow cap during pressure testing of the system. The test cap portion is removable from the other end of the overflow cap upon completion of the system pressure test to open up the overflow passage through the overflow cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Oatey Co.
    Inventor: Michael W. Minnick
  • Publication number: 20040107497
    Abstract: Alarms adaptable to common American bathtub cover plate configurations. Two different embodiments are illustrated. In a first embodiment, the alarm unit is designed to allow use with the three different mounting styles of cover plates used in the United States. The unit housing is preferably formed of plastic or metal with different colors and finishes and includes removable areas to allow use with a single center screw; dual screws or a center pivoting drain lever with dual screws. The various electronics components remain sealed inside the waterproof plastic or metal housing in all instances. In a second embodiment, a waterproof housing attaches to an adapter ring. The adapter ring is configured to cooperate with single center screw and dual screw variations. An alternative adapter ring can be used with European and newer American threaded overflow drains. In the first two embodiments there can be upper and lower sensor(s), preferably a pair of each, to provide initial and critical warnings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: R. Eric Hirtriter
  • Patent number: 6675406
    Abstract: An overflow system in the bathtub has an overflow port and has a drain pipe in connection with the overflow port. A threaded flange has a stub shoulder on one end which is forced-fitted into a circular sleeve on the overflow port. The threaded flange has exterior threads on its outer surface and a thin diaphragm secured to the end thereof opposite to the stub shoulder. A large sealing washer embraces the outside of the circular flange on the overflow port and extends partially over the threads of the threaded flange. A large internally threaded nut is threadably mounted on the outer end of the threaded flange and compresses the sealing washer against a vertical flange on the port to seal the connection between the threaded flange and the port. A decorative cap is frictionally snapped into engagement with protrusions on the outer surface of the nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Patent number: 6637051
    Abstract: Disclosed is a bathtub drain arrangement for implementation in a soaker bathtub of the type having a main basin coupled to a surrounding overflow trough. There is a drain channel extending from under the trough. There is also a drain pipe for draining water from the main basin. A drain control is positioned in the trough to extend into the drain channel and then outward there from.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventor: Peter W. Swart
  • Publication number: 20030192115
    Abstract: A plumbing fitting attachable to a wall that defines an opening, comprising a tubular part sized to project through an opening, there being grooving associated with the part; a cover extending in registration with the grooving; and a retainer caused by the cover and projecting to locally engage the grooving, thereby to position the cover in relation to the grooving.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Publication date: October 16, 2003
    Inventors: Robert A. Oropallo, Anthony Oropallo
  • Patent number: 6618875
    Abstract: A retention system for holding and mounting a cover cap to a plumbing fitting having a tubular terminal that projects at an opening through a bath or shower wall, comprising a retainer ring fitting on said tubular terminal and tightenable toward said wall, a series of retention cams on said ring and space about a longitudinal axis defined by the ring, there being gaps between successive cams, and there being retention shoulders on the cams, the retention shoulders facing in directions toward said wall, for retaining holders on the cover cap, after said holders have been passed longitudinally through said gaps and after the cap has then rotated to cause said holders to slidably engage the cams and became wedged against said retention shoulders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Inventors: Robert A. Oropallo, Anthony Oropallo, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6606753
    Abstract: A waste and overflow system for a bathtub includes an overflow conduit having a threaded end and an overflow cap threaded at one end extending through the overflow opening in the bathtub into threaded engagement with the threaded end of the conduit. The other end of the overflow cap has a test cap portion removably connected thereto for closing off an overflow passage through the overflow cap during pressure testing of the system. The test cap portion is removable from the other end of the overflow cap upon completion of the system pressure test to open up the overflow passage through the overflow cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: Oatey Co.
    Inventor: Michael W. Minnick
  • Publication number: 20030019032
    Abstract: A waste and overflow system for a bathtub includes an overflow conduit having a threaded end and an overflow cap threaded at one end extending through the overflow opening in the bathtub into threaded engagement with the threaded end of the conduit. The other end of the overflow cap has a test cap portion removably connected thereto for closing off an overflow passage through the overflow cap during pressure testing of the system. The test cap portion is removable from the other end of the overflow cap upon completion of the system pressure test to open up the overflow passage through the overflow cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventor: Michael W. Minnick
  • Publication number: 20030014813
    Abstract: A waste and overflow system for a bathtub includes an overflow conduit having a threaded end and an overflow cap threaded at one end extending through the overflow opening in the bathtub into threaded engagement with the threaded end of the conduit. The other end of the overflow cap has a test cap portion removably connected thereto for closing off an overflow passage through the overflow cap during pressure testing of the system. The test cap portion is removable from the other end of the overflow cap upon completion of the system pressure test to open up the overflow passage through the overflow cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventor: Michael W. Minnick
  • Patent number: 6484331
    Abstract: A waste and overflow system for a bathtub includes an overflow conduit having a threaded end and an overflow cap threaded at one end extending through the overflow opening in the bathtub into threaded engagement with the threaded end of the conduit. The other end of the overflow cap has a test cap portion removably connected thereto for closing off an overflow passage through the overflow cap during pressure testing of the system. The test cap portion is removable from the other end of the overflow cap upon completion of the system pressure test to open up the overflow passage through the overflow cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Oatey Co.
    Inventor: Michael W. Minnick
  • Publication number: 20020112285
    Abstract: A waste and overflow system for a bathtub includes an overflow conduit having a threaded end and an overflow cap threaded at one end extending through the overflow opening in the bathtub into threaded engagement with the threaded end of the conduit. The other end of the overflow cap has a test cap portion removably connected thereto for closing off an overflow passage through the overflow cap during pressure testing of the system. The test cap portion is removable from the other end of the overflow cap upon completion of the system pressure test to open up the overflow passage through the overflow cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2001
    Publication date: August 22, 2002
    Inventor: Michael W. Minnick