Drainage fitting

Abstract

A junction for a building drainage system having a main portion for conducting a liquid therethrough along a first axis, the main portion having an input end and an output end. A branch portion conducts a liquid along a second axis into the main portion, the branch portion having an input end. The second axis is disposable vertically at an angle of between about 2 degrees and about 45 degrees to the horizontal. The input end of the branch portion squarely connects to a branch conduit conducting a liquid along a third axis that is disposed vertically at an angle of between about 0 degrees and about 10 degrees to the horizontal.

Description

[0001] DRAINAGE FITTING

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003]

[0001] , The present invention relates generally to the field of plumbing fittings. More particularly, the invention is directed to a plumbing fitting of the type used in a building drainage system.

[0004] BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0005]

[0002] , Drainage systems are incorporated into a building structure, typically during the construction phase. Such systems function to carry water from a source within a building (such as a sink, toilet, bath, shower, washing machine, or dishwasher) to a sewer.

[0006]

[0003] , Typically, a main pipe runs in a trench dug into the ground beneath the building. Multiple branch pipes connect to the main pipe, so as to collect water from multiple sources within the building. Ultimately, the main pipe conducts water from the branch pipes to the sewer.

[0007]

[0004] , A junction fitting may be used to connect a branch pipe to the main pipe. Typically the fitting is configured so as to angle the branch pipe to the main pipe. The angle is typically in the realms of 45 degrees. By that configuration water from the branch pipe enters the main pipe travelling at about 45 degrees to that of the main pipe, and in the same general direction toward the sewer.

[0008]

[0005] , A conventional junction (10) is shown in FIG. 1 illustrating a main portion (15) comprising main pipe input (20) and a main pipe output (25). The junction further comprises a branch portion (30) in fluid connection with the main portion (15). The branch portion (30) comprises an input (35) for connection to a branch pipe. As shown by the dashed arrows in FIG. 1, water input from the branch pipe enters the junction (15) so as to mix with water from the main pipe. The junction may be dimensioned so as to connect to drainage pipes of between about 80 and 120 mm in diameter. While threaded connections are shown, other products may have pressure fit connections or other types of connection.

[0009]

[0006] , The junction (10) is installed with both the main portion (15) and branch portion (30) sitting on the floor of a trench formed in the ground. Thus, the central axes of the main portion (15) and branch portion (30) lie generally on a horizonal plane. The branch portion (30) may be very slightly inclined during installation but only to provide a fall for water travelling along the branch pipe.

[0010]

[0007] , Junctions such as those shown in FIG. 1 are prone to blockage with sanitary items, wipes, toilet paper, children’s toys, organic material such as hair, and other foreign objects. Such blockages require attendance by a plumber having specialised equipment to return pendency to the junction and the drainage system as a whole.

[0011]

[0008] , One aspect of the present invention is to provide an improvement in prior art drainage system junctions. In addition or alternatively, another aspect of the present invention is to provide a useful alternative to prior art draining system junctions.

[0012]

[0009] , The discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles and the like is included in this specification solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention. It is not suggested or represented that any or all of these matters formed part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention as it existed before the priority date of each claim of this application.

[0013] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014]

[0010] , In a first aspect, but not necessarily the broadest aspect, the present invention provides a junction for a building drainage system, the junction comprising: a main portion for conducting a liquid therethrough along a first axis, the main portion having an input end and an output end; and a branch portion for conducting a liquid along a second axis into the main portion, the branch portion having an input end; wherein the branch portion is configured such that the second axis is disposable vertically at an angle of between about 2 degrees and about 45 degrees to the horizontal, and the input end of the branch portion is configured to squarely connect to a branch conduit conducting a liquid along a third axis, the third axis being disposed vertically at an angle of between about 0 degrees and about 10 degrees to the horizontal.

[0015] [Oi l], In one embodiment of the first aspect, the branch portion is configured such that the second axis is disposable vertically at an angle of between about 5 degrees and about 25 degrees to the horizontal.

[0016]

[0012] , In one embodiment of the first aspect, the branch portion is configured such that the second axis is disposable vertically at an angle of between about 10 degrees and about 20 degrees to the horizontal.

[0017]

[0013] , In one embodiment of the first aspect, the branch portion is configured such that the second axis is disposable vertically at an angle of between about 12 degrees and about 18 degrees to the horizontal.

[0018]

[0014] , In one embodiment of the first aspect, the branch portion is configured such that the second axis is disposable vertically at an angle of about 12, 13, 14, 15 or 16 degrees to the horizontal.

[0019]

[0015] , In one embodiment of the first aspect, the third axis is disposed vertically at an angle of between about 1 degree and about 10 degrees to the horizontal.

[0020]

[0016] , In one embodiment of the first aspect, the third axis is disposed vertically at an angle of between about 1 degree and about 3 degrees to the horizontal.

[0021]

[0017] , In one embodiment of the first aspect, the third axis is disposed vertically at an angle of about 2 degrees to the horizontal.

[0018] , In one embodiment of the first aspect, the third axis is disposed horizontally at an angle of between about 0 degrees and about 45 degrees to the first axis.

[0022]

[0019] , In one embodiment of the first aspect, the second axis is disposed horizontally at an angle of between about 40 degrees and about 50 degrees to the first axis.

[0023]

[0020] , In one embodiment of the first aspect, the second axis is disposed horizontally at an angle of about 43, 44 or 45 degrees to the first axis.

[0024]

[0021] , In one embodiment of the first aspect, the second axis is disposed horizontally at an angle to the first axis, and the third axis is disposed at an angle of about 90 degrees to the first axis.

[0025]

[0022] , In one embodiment of the first aspect, the input end of the branch portion is configured to connect to the branch conduit by way of a male / female pressure fit connection or a threaded connection.

[0026]

[0023] , In one embodiment of the first aspect, the junction is unitarily formed.

[0027]

[0024] , In one embodiment of the first aspect, the input end of the branch portion is formed as an elbow separately to the remainder of the junction, and is connected to the remainder of the junction.

[0028]

[0025] , In one embodiment of the first aspect, the horizontal distance across the main portion and the branch portion is less than about 390 mm, 380 mm, 370 mm, 360 mm, 350 mm, 340 mm, 330 mm, 320 mm, 310 mm or 300 mm.

[0029]

[0026] , In one embodiment of the first aspect, the vertical distance from the lowermost point of the main portion to the lowermost point of the terminus of the branch portion is less than about 75 mm, 70 mm, 65 mm, 60 mm, 55 mm, 50 mm, 45 mm, or 40 mm.

[0027] , In one embodiment of the first aspect, the junction is fabricated predominantly or completely from a synthetic polymer.

[0030]

[0028] , In one embodiment of the first aspect, the synthetic polymer is polyvinyl chloride (PVC), unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (UPVC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP), or high density polyethylene (HDPE).

[0031]

[0029] , In a second aspect, the present invention provides a connector for a building drainage system, the connector having an input end and an output end, the connector configured to connect to a junction, the junction comprising: a main portion for conducting a liquid therethrough along a first axis, the main portion having an input end and an output end; and a branch portion for conducting a liquid along a second axis into the main portion, the branch portion having an input end; wherein the input end of the connector is configured to squarely connect to an output end of a branch conduit conducting a liquid along a third axis, and the output end of the connector is configured to squarely connect to the input end of the branch portion, and the connector is configured such that the second axis is disposable vertically at an angle of between about 2 degrees and about 45 degrees to the horizontal, and the third axis is disposed vertically at an angle of between about 0 degrees and about 10 degrees to the horizontal.

[0032]

[0030] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the branch portion is configured such that the second axis is disposable vertically at an angle of between about 5 degrees and about 25 degrees to the horizontal

[0033]

[0031] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the branch portion is configured such that the second axis is disposable vertically at an angle of between about 10 degrees and about 20 degrees to the horizontal

[0032] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the branch portion is configured such that the second axis is disposable vertically at an angle of between about 12 degrees and about 18 degrees to the horizontal

[0034]

[0033] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the branch portion is configured such that the second axis is disposable vertically at an angle of about 12, 13, 14, 15 or 16 degrees to the horizontal.

[0035]

[0034] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the third axis is disposed vertically at an angle of between about 1 degree and about 10 degrees to the horizontal.

[0036]

[0035] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the third axis is disposed vertically at an angle of between about 1 degree and about 3 degrees to the horizontal.

[0037]

[0036] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the third axis is disposed vertically at an angle of about 2 degrees to the horizontal.

[0038]

[0037] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the third axis is disposed horizontally at an angle of between about 0 degrees and about 45 degrees to the first axis.

[0039]

[0038] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the second axis is disposed horizontally at an angle of between about 40 degrees and about 50 degrees to the first axis.

[0040]

[0039] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the second axis is disposed horizontally at an angle of about 43, 44 or 45 degrees to the first axis.

[0041]

[0040] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the second axis is disposed horizontally at an angle to the first axis, and the third axis is disposed at an angle of about 90 degrees to the first axis.

[0041] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the input end and / or the output end is configured to connect at its input end and / or its output end by way of a male / female pressure fit connection or a threaded connection.

[0042]

[0042] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the connector is unitarily formed.

[0043]

[0043] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the connector is fabricated predominantly or completely from a synthetic polymer.

[0044]

[0044] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the synthetic polymer is polyvinyl chloride (PVC), unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (UPVC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP), or high density polyethylene (HDPE).

[0045]

[0045] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the connector has alignment means.

[0046]

[0046] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the alignment means functions so as to cause or allow the connector to be correctly orientated when connected to the branch portion of the junction such that the defined angle(s) is / are achieved.

[0047]

[0047] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the correct orientation is achieved by axial rotation of the connector input end about the second axis, the second axis being a central axis of branch portion of the junction.

[0048]

[0048] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the alignment means comprises a visually discernible landmark that is alignable with a visually discernible landmark on the junction.

[0049]

[0049] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the visually discernible landmark of the connector is a marking or a formation on or about the input end thereof.

[0050]

[0050] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the visually discernible landmark of the junction is an inherent feature the junction arising by virtue of its means of production.

[0051] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the visually discernible landmark of the junction is a seam running longitudinally along the branch portion thereof.

[0051]

[0052] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the alignment means is a formation configured to contact a formation of the branch portion of the junction.

[0052]

[0053] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the connector comprises a visually discernible indicator of the handedness of the connector.

[0053]

[0054] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the connector is in the form of an elbow.

[0054]

[0055] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the connector has a shortest liquid path from the inlet end to the outlet end of less than about 300 mm, 250 mm, 200 mm, 190 mm, 180 mm, 170 mm, 160 mm, 150 mm, 140 mm, 130 mm, 120 mm, 110 mm, 100 mm, 90 mm, 80 mm, 70 mm, 60 mm or 50 mm.

[0055]

[0056] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the connector is configured by way of dimension and / or shape such that when connected to a 100 mm, 44 or 45 degree, DWV junction of the type used in a domestic building construction, the horizontal distance across the junction and the connector is less than about 390 mm, 380 mm, 370 mm, 360 mm, 350 mm, 340 mm, 330 mm, 320 mm, 310 mm or 300 mm.

[0056]

[0057] , In one embodiment of the second aspect, the connector is configured by way of dimension and / or shape such that when connected to a 100 mm, 44 or 45 degree, DWV junction of the type used in a domestic building construction the vertical distance between the lowermost point of the DWV junction to the lowermost point of the terminus of the connector is less than about 75 mm, 70 mm, 65 mm, 60 mm, 55 mm, 50 mm, 45 mm, or 40 mm.

[0058] , In a third aspect, the present invention provides a connector for connecting a branch conduit to a junction of a drainage system, the connector having a first cylindrical connection portion about an input end and a second cylindrical connection portion at an output end, the first and second connection portion having respectively first and second central axis, wherein the second central axis is (i) disposed horizontally at an angle to the first central axis, and (ii) disposed vertically at an angle to the first central axis.

[0057]

[0059] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the second central axis is disposed horizontally at an angle of between about 0 degrees and about 45 degrees to the first central axis.

[0058]

[0060] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the second central axis is disposed horizontally at an angle of between about 40 degrees and about 50 degrees to the first central axis.

[0059]

[0061] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the second central axis is disposed horizontally at an angle of about 43, 44 or 45 degrees to the first central axis.

[0060]

[0062] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the second central axis is disposed vertically at an angle of between about 0 degrees and about 10 degrees to the first central axis.

[0061]

[0063] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the second central axis is disposed vertically at an angle of between about 1 degree and about 10 degrees to the first central axis.

[0062]

[0064] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the second central axis is disposed vertically at an angle of between about 1 degree and about 3 degrees to the first central axis.

[0063]

[0065] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the second axis is disposed vertically at an angle of about 2 degrees to the first central axis.

[0066] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the input end and / or the output end is configured to connect at its input end and / or its output end by way of a male / female pressure fit connection or a threaded connection.

[0064]

[0067] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the connector is unitarily formed.

[0065]

[0068] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the connector is fabricated predominantly or completely from a synthetic polymer.

[0066]

[0069] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the synthetic polymer is polyvinyl chloride (PVC), unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (UPVC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP), or high density polyethylene (HDPE).

[0067]

[0070] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the connector has alignment means.

[0068]

[0071] . In one embodiment of the third aspect, the alignment means functions so as to cause or allow the connector to be correctly orientated when connected to the branch portion of the junction such that the defined angle(s) is / are achieved.

[0069]

[0072] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the correct orientation is achieved by axial rotation of the connector input end about the second axis, the second axis being a central axis of branch portion of the junction.

[0070]

[0073] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the alignment means comprises a visually discernible landmark that is alignable with a visually discernible landmark on the junction.

[0071]

[0074] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the visually discernible landmark of the connector is a marking or a formation on or about the input end thereof.

[0072]

[0075] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the visually discernible landmark of the junction is an inherent feature the junction arising by virtue of its means of production.

[0076] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the visually discernible landmark of the junction is a seam running longitudinally along the branch portion thereof.

[0073]

[0077] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the alignment means is a formation configured to contact a formation of the branch portion of the junction.

[0074]

[0078] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the connector comprises a visually discernible indicator of the handedness of the connector.

[0075]

[0079] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the connector is in the form of an elbow.

[0076]

[0080] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the connector has a shortest liquid path from the inlet end to the outlet end of less than about 300 mm, 250 mm, 200 mm, 190 mm, 180 mm, 170 mm, 160 mm, 150 mm, 140 mm, 130 mm, 120 mm, 110 mm, 100 mm, 90 mm, 80 mm, 70 mm, 60 mm or 50 mm.

[0077]

[0081] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the connector is configured by way of dimension and / or shape such that when connected to a 100 mm, 44 or 45 degree, DWV junction of the type used in a domestic building construction, the horizontal distance across the junction and the connector is less than about 390 mm, 380 mm, 370 mm, 360 mm, 350 mm, 340 mm, 330 mm, 320 mm, 310 mm or 300 mm.

[0078]

[0082] , In one embodiment of the third aspect, the connector is configured by way of dimension and / or shape such that when connected to a 100 mm, 44 or 45 degree, DWV junction of the type used in a domestic building construction the vertical distance between the lowermost point of the DWV junction to the lowermost point of the terminus of the connector is less than about 75 mm, 70 mm, 65 mm, 60 mm, 55 mm, 50 mm, 45 mm, or 40 mm.

[0083] , In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a method of producing a fitting for a building drainage system, the method comprising the steps of providing a junction having a branch portion and connecting the connector of any embodiment of the second aspect of the third aspect to the branch portion.

[0079]

[0084] , In one embodiment of the fourth aspect, the junction has a main portion, and the branch portion has an axis of liquid flow that is angled at between about 40 degrees and about 50 degrees to an axis of liquid flow the main portion.

[0080]

[0085] , In one embodiment of the fourth aspect, the junction has a main portion, and the branch portion has an axis of liquid flow that is angled at between about 40, 44 or 44 degrees to an axis of liquid flow of the main portion.

[0081]

[0086] , In a fifth aspect, the present invention provides a fitting for a building drainage system, the fitting produced by the method of any embodiment of the fourth aspect.

[0082]

[0087] , In a sixth aspect, the present invention provides a method of installing a drainage system, the method comprising the steps of: forming a trench in a substrate, and disposing the junction of any embodiment of the first aspect therein.

[0083]

[0088] , In one embodiment of the sixth aspect, the method comprises the step of disposing a filling material or other support beneath the branch portion of the junction.

[0084]

[0089] , In a seventh aspect, the present invention provides a method of installing a drainage system, the method comprising the steps of: forming a trench in a substrate, and disposing the fitting of any embodiment of the fifth aspect therein.

[0085]

[0090] , In one embodiment of the seventh aspect, the method comprises the step of disposing a filling material or other support beneath the branch portion. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0086]

[0091] , FIG. 1 illustrates in perspective view a conventional junction of the prior art.

[0087]

[0092] , FIG. 2A illustrates in plan view a conventional junction of the prior art having a connector of the present invention connected thereto. The plan view is illustrated with the components disposed on the floor of a trench formed in the ground.

[0088]

[0093] , FIG. 2B illustrates a lateral perspective view of the connector and junction illustrated in FIG. 2A. The main pipe and the branch portion are not drawn for clarity.

[0089]

[0094] , FIG. 3A illustrates in plan view a left-handed implementation (shown on the left of the drawing sheet) and a right-handed implementation (shown to the right of the drawing sheet) of the connector illustrated in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B.

[0090]

[0095] , FIG. 3B illustrates in lateral perspective view a left-handed implementation (shown on the left of the drawing sheet) and a right handed implementation (shown to the right of the drawing sheet) of the connector as illustrated in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B.

[0091]

[0096] , FIG. 4A illustrates in plan view the connector solus as illustrated in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B.

[0092]

[0097] , FIG. 4B illustrates in lateral perspective view the connector solus as illustrated in FIG. 2 A and FIG. 2B.

[0093]

[0098] , FIG. 5 illustrates in lateral perspective view a connector having an alignment formation.

[0094]

[0099] , FIG. 6 illustrates in lateral perspective view a right-handed implementation (shown on the left of the drawing sheet) and a left-handed implementation (shown to the right of the drawing sheet) of the connector as illustrated in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, each connector having an alignment arrow formation and a handedness letter formation.

[0100] , FIG. 7 illustrates in lateral end-on view (with respect to the connector 100), a connector of the present invention connected to a DWV junction showing the low disposition of the connector terminus in relation to underlying substrate.

[0095]

[0101] , FIG. 8 illustrates in plan view, a connector of the present invention connected to a

[0096] DWV junction showing the limited width dimension across the arrangement.

[0097]

[0102] , FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B each illustrate from below, various spaces of limited dimensions formed beneath a floor in a domestic building. The limited dimensions cause difficulty in accommodating drainage fittings therein. Moreover, the dimensions may vary within a single building and across different buildings.

[0098]

[0103] , Unless otherwise indicated herein, features of the drawings labelled with the same numeral are taken to be the same features, or at least functionally similar features, when used across different drawings.

[0099]

[0104] , The drawings are not prepared to any particular scale or dimension and are not presented as being a completely accurate presentation of the various embodiments.

[0100] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS THEREOF

[0101]

[0105] , After considering this description it will be apparent to one skilled in the art how the invention is implemented in various alternative embodiments and alternative applications. However, although various embodiments of the present invention will be described herein, it is understood that these embodiments are presented by way of example only, and not limitation. As such, this description of various alternative embodiments should not be construed to limit the scope or breadth of the present invention. Furthermore, statements of advantages or other aspects apply to specific exemplary embodiments, and not necessarily to all embodiments, or indeed any embodiment covered by the claims.

[0106] , Throughout the description and the claims of this specification the word "comprise" and variations of the word, such as "comprising" and "comprises" is not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps.

[0102]

[0107] , Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may.

[0103]

[0108] , As used herein, positional terms such as “lateral”, “across”, “above”, “below”,

[0104] “higher”, “lower”, “upward”, “downward”, “vertical” “horizontal”, “plan view” and the like are to be considered with reference to drainage system junction as used in a normal orientation so as to channel water under gravity from a source within a building and toward a sewer.

[0105]

[0109] , The term “axis” may be used to refer to a central axis of a cylindrical structure or an axis along which a fluid flows through a conduit (such as a pipe), as indicated by the context.

[0106]

[0110] , The term “horizontal” is taken according to a horizontal as indicated by a bubble spirit level or similar device.

[0107]

[0111] , The present junction is configured to increase the momentum of water entering the junction from a branch pipe. The momentum is increased significantly inclining the branch portion of the junction such that water running through the branch pipe is travelling under the force of gravity and down a significant incline as it enters the main portion. The inclines may be provided by disposing the branch portion at an angle of between about 5 degrees and 20 degrees to the horizontal, and preferably about 14 to 16 degrees. The increased momentum may function to inhibit the lodgement of foreign objects in the junction. In addition or alternatively, the increased momentum may function to dislodge any foreign object already present in the junction.

[0108]

[0112] , By contrast, prior art junctions are installed with little or no incline on the branch portion, and accordingly water entering the main portion from the branch pipe has less momentum. In some cases, the main portion is axially rotated to provide an incline of about 2 degrees or less in the branch portion so as to provide a slight run on the branch pipe connected thereto. That slight run assists in maintaining flow of water through the branch pipe and toward the junction, however imparts little appreciable momentum to the water. Accordingly, in the prior art water entering the main portion of the junction has little momentum, which may explain the propensity of foreign objects being carried through branch pipes to lodge in the junction.

[0109]

[0113] , A branch pipe connected to a branch portion angled at between about 12 to 16 degrees to the horizontal would itself be considerably vertically angled, and far in excess of the small run conventionally implemented in a drainage system. Accordingly, the branch pipe portion of the junction may be configured to direct water into the junction at an angle of between about 12 and 16 degrees to the horizontal, and yet allow for a branch pipe to connect at an angle of between about 0 and 2 degrees to the horizontal.

[0110]

[0114] , The junction may be further configured to accommodate the approximately 45 degree horizontal input angle of the branch portion. This allows for a branch pipe to extend orthogonal to main pipe of the drainage system. In some cases, an input angle of 42, 43, or 44 degrees is provided.

[0111]

[0115] , The present invention may be embodied in a one aspect as a complete junction. In other aspects, the invention is embodied in the form of an elbow configured to connect to a conventional junction (such as that shown in FIG. 1).

[0116] , While this invention is described mainly in reference to the elbow aspect as connected to a conventional junction, there is no intention to limit the ambit of the invention to that aspect.

[0112]

[0117] , Reference is made to FIG. 2A showing a conventional junction (10) having a main portion (15) with an inlet (20) and an outlet. A first main pipe portion (50) carries water from a source (such as a toilet) and is squarely connected to the inlet (20). and a second main pipe portion (55) squarely connected to the outlet (25) to carry water away to toward the sewer. FIG. 2 A is a plan view of an installation, showing the branch portion (30) arranged laterally to the main portion (15).

[0113]

[0118] , The elbow (100) squarely connects the branch portion (30) to the branch pipe (60) via the branch portion inlet (35). The respective axes and direction of fluid flow are shown by the dashed lines (200, 205, 210). It will be noted that the elbow (100) diverts the water at an angle of about 45 degrees (i.e. firstly along axis (200) and then along axis (205) such that the branch pipe (60) is substantially orthogonal to the axis (210) of the main pipe (50, 55).

[0114]

[0119] , Reference is now made to FIG. 2B which shows the arrangement of FIG. 2A, although without the junction main portion, or the main pipes for clarity. FIG. 2B is a view taken end-on from the main pipe portion (55), to highlight configuration of the elbow (100) to squarely connect to the branch pipe (60) conducting water at about 2 degrees to the horizontal along axis (200) to the branch portion (30). The elbow (100) is also configured to squarely connect at its other end to the inlet (35) of the branch portion (30) of the junction. Water exiting the connection (100) runs along the axis (205) at an angle to the horizontal of about 15 degrees. Water running into the main portion (15) of the junction has a relatively high momentum thereby potentially inhibiting or prevent lodgement of a foreign object, or dislodging an already lodged foreign object.

[0115]

[0120] , While the present junction or connector will typically be configured such that any angle is fixed, some embodiments may comprise one or more articulations to allow a user to adjust an angle. Optionally, the angle may be fixed by a locking mechanism or addition of an adhesive or similar.

[0116]

[0121] , Reference is made to FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B, illustrating that the elbow (100) may be implemented as a left-hand elbow (100a) or a right-hand elbow (100b) depending on the side from which the branch pipe (60) connects.

[0117]

[0122] , FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B illustrate the elbow (100) solus and in left-hand implementation, to more clearly show the input (105) and output (110). The input and / or output may be configured to connect by way of a pressure fit (optionally with a glue or sealant to ensure watertightness) or by a threaded engagement.

[0118]

[0123] , When connecting the elbow (100) to the branch portion (30), the elbow must be axially rotated about the central axis of the cylindrical outlet (100) so as to squarely connect to the branch pipe (60) and provide the required axes of fluid flow shown in FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B, FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B. To ensure the correct degree of axial rotation, the elbow (100) and particularly about the output (110) may comprise an alignment means. In the embodiment of FIG. 5, the alignment means is an arrow-shaped formation (112) positioned so as to be adjacent to an edge of the branch portion (30) of the junction when the two components are connected. The junction is conventional, and inherently comprises a seam (32) that is a remnant of the process by which it is produced. The seam (32) provides a landmark to which the arrow-shaped formation (112) may be aligned, as shown in FIG. 5. As an alternative, a non-conventional junction may be provided and having a dedicated landmark for the proper alignment of an elbow.

[0119]

[0124] , In addition to the alignment means, a connector may further comprise a handedness indicator. The handedness indicator may disposed proximal to the alignment means. Reference is made to FIG. 6 a right-handed elbow (100b) having an arrow formation (112) and a letter formation “RH” adjacent thereto. A left-handed elbow (100a) is also illustrated having an arrow formation (112) and a letter formation “LH”.

[0125] , While formations for arrows, letters and other indicum are conveniently formed into the elbow during moulding, other methods may be used such as printing, etching and the like.

[0120]

[0126] , As an alternative to visual alignment means, the connector and branch portion may have complimentary structures to ensure correct alignment. A conventional junction may be modified so as to provide the required complementary structure.

[0121]

[0127] , As will be appreciated by the foregoing, the present invention is advantageous in allowing for the precise angling of a branch pipe relative to a junction, and in turn a main pipe connected to the junction. Such precise angling may be required for ensure any one or more of: a minimum or maximum momentum is imparted to water, or to comply with a regulation or a code, or to ensure consistency between connections in a building construction or across multiple building constructions, to ensure a minimum or maximum fall is applied to the branch pipe.

[0122]

[0128] , Any elbow, junction or connector of the present invention may be provided as a unitary piece, and may be configured by way of dimension and / or shape to provide a compact arrangement. Reference is made to FIG. 7 showing the relatively low disposition of the connector (100) terminus. The limited vertical disposition of the connector (100) provides a shallow space thereunder thereby limiting the amount of excavation required in a substrate. Moreover, only a limited amount of backfill material is required to support the branch portion (30) and connector (100). Prior art fittings requiring multiple components may provide a higher vertical disposition for the branch portion inlet, and therefore require deeper excavation with the attendant problem of disposing of the excavated substrate.

[0123]

[0129] , Reference is made to FIG. 8 showing the limited width of the junction (15) and connector (100) arrangement. The arrangement may be dimensioned in terms of width so as to sit within a trench of about 300 or about 450 mm as formed by a single pass or multiple passes of an excavator trench bucket. Prior art fittings requiring multiple components may provide a wider arrangement, and therefore require wider excavation (possibly requiring multiple passes of a trench bucket) with the attendant problem of increased excavated substrate disposal.

[0124]

[0130] , Compact dimensions are also advantageous where drainage fittings are installed within the spaces formed by joists, bearers and other underfloor structures. Compactness in terms of vertical height and / or width can allow fitting within spaces which are unable to accommodate prior art fittings. Reference is made to FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B showing such dimensionally limited spaces. The spacing between joists varies within and between buildings, and accordingly it is generally preferable for any plumbing fitting to be as small as possible to increase the probability that it will be suitable for a given underfloor installation.

[0125]

[0131] , Prior art arrangements comprising 2, 3, 4 or more individual components may be used to achieve the required 15 degree fluid path into a main drainage line. However, such components increase the overall vertical height and / or width of the arrangement. Fabrication in unitary form allows for a more compact arrangement, leading to the advantages disclosed above.

[0126]

[0132] , An inlet and outlet of the present junction or the present connector may be configured to form watertight fluid connection to a 100 mm diameter drainage pipe. An inlet and outlet of the present junction or the present connector may be configured in male or female form so as to form watertight fluid connection to a 100 mm diameter drainage pipe. An alternative diameter to the aforementioned 100 mm is selected from the group consisting of 65 mm, 80 mm, 150 mm, and 225 mm.

[0127]

[0133] , Discussion of any feature, any combination of features, or any feature alternatives in relation to the preferred embodiment of the drawings should not be taken as applicable only to that preferred embodiment. Any feature, any combination of features, or any feature alternatives may be applied to any embodiment of the invention described and / or claimed herein.

[0134] , Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention described herein is susceptible to further variations and modifications other than those specifically described. It is understood that the invention comprises all such variations and modifications which fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0128]

[0135] , The spirit and scope of the present invention is not to be limited by the foregoing, but is to be understood in the broadest sense allowable by law.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A junction for a building drainage system, the junction comprising: a main portion for conducting a liquid therethrough along a first axis, the main portion having an input end and an output end; and a branch portion for conducting a liquid along a second axis into the main portion, the branch portion having an input end; wherein the branch portion is configured such that the second axis is disposable vertically at an angle of between about 2 degrees and about 45 degrees to the horizontal, and the input end of the branch portion is configured to squarely connect to a branch conduit conducting a liquid along a third axis, the third axis being disposed vertically at an angle of between about 0 degrees and about 10 degrees to the horizontal.

2. The junction of claim 1, wherein the branch portion is configured such that the second axis is disposable vertically at an angle of between about 5 degrees and about 25 degrees to the horizontal.

3. The junction of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the third axis is disposed vertically at an angle of between about 1 degree and about 10 degrees to the horizontal.

4. The junction of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the third axis is disposed horizontally at an angle of between about 0 degrees and about 45 degrees to the first axis.

5. The junction of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second axis is disposed horizontally at an angle of between about 40 degrees and about 50 degrees to the first axis.

6. The junction of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the second axis is disposed horizontally at an angle to the first axis, and the third axis is disposed at an angle of about 90 degrees to the first axis.

7. The junction of any one of claims 1 to 6 that is unitarily formed.

8. The junction of any one of claim 1 to 7, wherein the input end of the branch portion is formed as an elbow separately to the remainder of the junction, and is connected to the remainder of the junction.

9. The junction of any one of claims 1 to 8, fabricated predominantly or completely from a synthetic polymer.

10. A connector for a building drainage system, the connector having an input end and an output end, the connector configured to connect to a junction, the junction comprising: a main portion for conducting a liquid therethrough along a first axis, the main portion having an input end and an output end; and a branch portion for conducting a liquid along a second axis into the main portion, the branch portion having an input end; wherein the input end of the connector is configured to squarely connect to an output end of a branch conduit conducting a liquid along a third axis, and the output end of the connector is configured to squarely connect to the input end of the branch portion, and the connector is configured such that the second axis is disposable vertically at an angle of between about 2 degrees and about 45 degrees to the horizontal, and the third axis is disposed vertically at an angle of between about 0 degrees and about 10 degrees to the horizontal.

11. The connector of claim 10, wherein the branch portion is configured such that the second axis is disposable vertically at an angle of between about 5 degrees and about 25 degrees to the horizontal.

12. The connector of claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the third axis is disposed vertically at an angle of between about 1 degree and about 10 degrees to the horizontal.

13. The connector of any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the third axis is disposed horizontally at an angle of between about 0 degrees and about 45 degrees to the first axis.

14. The connector of any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the second axis is disposed horizontally at an angle of between about 40 degrees and about 50 degrees to the first axis.

15. The connector of any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the second axis is disposed horizontally at an angle to the first axis, and the third axis is disposed at an angle of about 90 degrees to the first axis.

16. The connector of any one of claims 10 to 15 that is unitarily formed.

17. The connector of any one of claims 10 to 16, fabricated predominantly or completely from a synthetic polymer.

18. The connector of any one of claims 10 to 17, having alignment means.

19. The connector of claim 18, wherein the alignment means functions so as to cause or allow the connector to be correctly orientated when connected to the branch portion of the junction such that the defined angle(s) is / are achieved.

20. The connector of claim 19, wherein the correct orientation is achieved by axial rotation of the connector input end about the second axis, the second axis being a central axis of branch portion of the junction.

21. The connector of any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the alignment means comprises a visually discernible landmark that is alignable with a visually discernible landmark on the junction.

22. The connector of any one of claims 18 to 21, wherein the alignment means is a formation configured to contact a formation of the branch portion of the junction.

23. The connector of any one of claims 10 to 22, comprising a visually discernible indicator of the handedness of the connector.

24. The connector of any one of claims 10 to 23 in the form of an elbow.

25. A connector for connecting a branch conduit to a junction of a drainage system, the connector having a first cylindrical connection portion about an input end and a second cylindrical connection portion at an output end, the first and second connection portion having respectively first and second central axis, wherein the second central axis is (i) disposed horizontally at an angle to the first central axis, and (ii) disposed vertically at an angle to the first central axis.

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