Waste Export

Abstract

A waste outlet having a top section with an inlet and an outlet and a bottom section with an inlet and an outlet. The top section and the bottom section are both mounted on a substantially elongated member. A tubular sealing element encloses the outlet of the top section and the inlet of the bottom section, and one of the top section and the bottom section is connected to the elongated member, and the other of the top section and the bottom section is slidably mounted on the rigid elongated member so that it can slide along the elongated member to adjust the distance between the sections.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to waste outlets, in particular for use in plumbing fixtures such as in sinks, troughs, bathtubs and shower fixtures. Background Art

[0002] A waste outlet is required in many plumbing systems, for example in sinks, bathtubs and showers, to drain away waste water. Such a waste outlet fits into an orifice drilled or cast into the product, and the waste outlet typically has a first section and a second section attached to each other. To install the waste outlet, access is required to both sides of the orifice so that silicone sealant can be applied to both sides of the orifice, so that the top section can be positioned in the orifice, and then the second section is connected to the first section from the other side of the orifice, typically by a threaded connection.

[0003] Where the waste outlet can be fitted prior to installation of the product, securing the waste outlet to the product is less complicated, although it typically requires two people; however, where the waste outlet is replaced on a product in the field, the installation process is more complicated and requires two people and / or considerable effort to install the new component. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present invention therefore relates to a waste outlet device having:

[0005] a top section having an inlet and an outlet, the inlet and the outlet of the top section being in fluid communication with each other; and

[0006] a bottom section having an inlet and an outlet, the inlet and the outlet of the bottom section being in fluid communication with each other, wherein the bottom section further has a support section located therein;

[0007] wherein both the top section and the bottom section are arranged and preferably mounted on a substantially elongated member,

[0008] wherein the tubular sealing element encloses an outlet of the top section and an inlet of the bottom section, and

[0009] Therein, the top section and the bottom section are arranged on the elongated member such that a distance between the top section and the bottom section can be adjusted, which can cause a tubular seal between the top section and the bottom section to compress or expand.

[0010] Thus, the present invention comprises a top section and a bottom section mounted on and connectable by an elongated member or shaft, and a sealing section disposed between the top section and the bottom section. The elongated member may be substantially rigid. Relative axial movement between the top section and the bottom section along the elongated member adjusts the shape and width of the tubular seal, and the waste outlet device may be locked into the product to provide an outlet for waste fluids.

[0011] The tubular seal, which is preferably an elastic material or rubber, may be provided with creases, ribs, folds or other elements that promote a predetermined deformation when the tubular seal is compressed. Thus, the tubular seal may be folded or folded in a known manner, preferably so that the excess material moves radially away from the axis of the tubular seal, thereby making the internal passage of the tubular seal relatively unobstructed. The tubular seal surrounds the periphery of the outlet of the top section so that the liquid passing therethrough will enter the tubular seal and pass through the inlet of the bottom section. It will be understood that the top section may not be positioned inside the tubular seal, but may lead into the tubular seal. For example, the top section may be cup-shaped or may be substantially planar, and in either case, the outlet of the top section will be enclosed by the tubular seal to allow liquid to be transferred from the top section to the tubular seal.

[0012] Advantageously, the tubular seal has an extended position when the top section and the bottom section are spaced apart, and the tubular seal has a compressed position in which the top section and the bottom section are brought closer together to compress the seal section, and wherein, when in the compressed position, the seal has a greater width than when in the extended position.

[0013] The present invention allows the seal to be placed in an extended position when the top section and the bottom section are moved apart, and in a compressed position when the top section and the bottom section are brought together. Therefore, the sealing section can be narrowed to allow the bottom section to pass through the orifice to be fitted with the bottom section, and once the top section and the bottom section are located on the respective sides of the orifice, the device can be manipulated to a compressed position. When the width of the sealing section may be increased or radially expanded due to its folding, the waste outlet device is fixed in the orifice. The device can then be locked in place to prevent accidental removal or displacement. It will be understood that the increased width of the seal is preferably located on the outlet side of the orifice, that is, on the side through which water is discharged to the waste pipe, rather than near the water source.

[0014] In one arrangement, the elongated member is provided with an external threaded portion, and at least one of the bottom section and the top section is provided with a corresponding threaded section, so that rotation of the elongated member adjusts the position of the top section and / or the bottom section relative to the other of the top section and / or the bottom section.

[0015] The use of threaded sections, preferably controlled from the water source side of the top section, allows good control of the positions of the various components along the elongated member, particularly the position of the bottom section relative to the top section. Therefore, the various components can be brought together so that the seal is moved to a compressed position in a controlled and predictable manner. The elongated member itself can rotate, or it can be a sleeve supplied around it, which is provided with a threaded section and rotates. Therefore, the elongated member can be provided with an aperture or recess in which a tool for rotating the elongated member is received. The tool can be in the form of a screwdriver, a hexagonal wrench, a spanner or another tool that can engage the elongated member and rotate it. The elongated member can be shaped to accept more than one tool, for example, it can have a profile for a spanner and a slot for a flat head screwdriver.

[0016] It will be appreciated that the rotational freedom of the bottom section will be limited by the tubular seal; however, it may be preferred to provide another mechanism to reduce or prevent rotation of the bottom section relative to the top section, such as one, two, three or more guide shafts between the two sections which may be positioned radially around the longitudinal axis of the water outlet device. Such guides may be fixedly connected to the top section, while the bottom section is able to slide or move along the guides. Thus, the guides allow relative movement between the components, while reducing or preventing relative rotational movement between the two components.

[0017] Alternatively or additionally, the waste outlet is biased to a compressed position or an extended position, and optionally, the bias may be in the form of a spring bias. A compression spring or an extension spring may be applied to the interior or exterior of the elongated member to bias the top and bottom sections to a compressed position or an extended position. Thus, in order to move the device to the other of the compressed and extended positions, a force must be provided in opposite directions. To this end, the force may be provided by a tool that may be dedicated to the waste outlet or a conventional tool such as a screwdriver. The tool may be pushed through an aperture in the top section to force the bottom section away from the top section, thereby placing the tubular seal in the extended position.

[0018] In one embodiment, the top section is provided with a radially extending flange. The flange on the top section is preferably wider than the diameter of the orifice in which the waste outlet is fitted, thereby preventing the top section from passing through the orifice. The flange may extend around the periphery of the top section, or it may only partially extend around the periphery of the top section. It is also particularly advantageous that the tubular seal is provided with a top lip or flange, which preferably extends radially. By providing the seal with a lip or flange, the top of the seal is more securely clamped between the top section and the surface to which the device is fitted.

[0019] Preferably, the elongated member has a passage therethrough. Although the elongated member may be solid, providing a passage therethrough allows fluid to pass therethrough. Furthermore, the substantially elongated member may have a head section and a rod section, and the portion of the head section adjacent to the rod may be provided with a flange or skirt. Advantageously, the lower side of the flange or skirt is provided with a curved profile. The flange or skirt of the bolt reduces the risk of a wrench or other tool scratching the inner surface of the waste outlet device during installation. Similarly, the radius of the lower side of the flange reduces the risk of visible scratches on the device during installation. The elongated member or bolt may be used independently of the waste outlet device and may have other applications.

[0020] In one arrangement, the top section is provided with an aperture through which or through which a substantially elongated member may be engaged. The top section may have an aperture through which the elongated member may be positioned. In this arrangement, the top section functions in a manner similar to a washer; mounted on the elongated member, but not engaging the elongated member, such that rotation of the elongated member does not rotate the top member.

[0021] Preferably, the bottom section is provided with a U-shaped rim around the inlet of the bottom section, and one end of the tubular seal sits within the U-shaped rim. By having a rim in which the tubular seal can sit, the tubular seal forms a good seal with the bottom section when in a compressed position to reduce the risk of leakage. Alternatively or additionally, the tubular seal and the bottom section may be fixedly connected, for example, they may be formed integrally with each other or connected to each other with an adhesive.

[0022] The invention extends to a method of installing a waste outlet comprising the following steps:

[0023] Providing a waste outlet according to any preceding claim;

[0024] Place the waste outlet in the extended position;

[0025] placing the waste outlet device into the orifice with the lower section on one side of the orifice and the upper section on an opposite side of the orifice;

[0026] Adjust the waste outlet to the compressed position.

[0027] Adjusting the waste outlet to the compressed position may involve manipulation, movement or other action that allows the top and bottom sections to move closer together. This may involve applying a force to bring the components closer together, or removing the force, which may apply where a bias is involved.

[0028] When the device is installed into a surface having an orifice therein, the tubular seal can form a substantially rigid seal adjacent the surface due to the compressive forces acting on the tubular seal to reduce the risk of water leakage. In such an arrangement, when placed in a compressed position, the tubular seal is sandwiched between the top section and the first side of the surface and between the bottom section and the second side of the surface. Thus, the tubular seal can form a substantially watertight conduit through the surface. The tubular seal can be compressed in a folded manner and held tight by an elongated member or biasing device on the second side.

[0029] When installed, liquid can flow from the inlet of the top section, across the surface, through the apertures and out the outlet of the second section.

[0030] The invention also extends to a sink, shower tray or bathtub having a waste outlet as set out herein. It will be appreciated that the device may be mounted in a substantially vertical position, such as in a main drain for a sink or bathtub or in a shower tray, and that the device may also be mounted in a substantially horizontal position, such as in a bathtub or sink overflow. Obviously, when mounted horizontally, the top section and bottom section may be considered to be the first section and the second section, respectively, rather than the top section and the bottom section. It will also be appreciated that such a waste outlet may be mounted in an electrical device, such as in a waste disposal device, a dishwasher or a washing machine. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0032] Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a waste outlet arrangement according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 Another cross-sectional view of the waste outlet;

[0034] Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a waste outlet according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 4 Shows Figure 3 Another cross-sectional view of the waste outlet;

[0036] Figure 5 shows a side view of a second embodiment of the waste outlet of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 6 Shows Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the waste outlet;

[0038] Figure 7shows a perspective view of a bolt for use with the present invention;

[0039] Figure 8 Shows Figure 7 A side view of a bolt;

[0040] Fig. 9 A perspective view showing another embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Fig.10 Shown in the first position Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of a device;

[0042] Fig.11 Shown in the second position Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of a device;

[0043] Fig. 12A Shows Fig. 9 The device is installed in a first step in a water tank having an overflow arrangement;

[0044] Fig. 12B Shows Fig. 9 A second step of installing the device in a sink having an overflow arrangement;

[0045] Fig.13A and Fig. 13B Another embodiment of the present invention is shown in a first position; and

[0046] Fig.14A and Fig. 14B The embodiment of FIG. 13 is shown in a second position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Figure 1 and Figure 2 There is shown a waste outlet device 10 comprising a top section 12 and a bottom section 14 , both mounted on an elongate rigid shaft 16 .

[0048] The top section 12 is in the form of a concave cup shape with an arcuate sidewall 18 which leads downwardly to a discharge aperture 20 located at its lowest portion. The discharge aperture 20 is provided with a filter section 22 having an aperture in the center through which passes an elongated rigid member 16 in the form of a threaded bolt 24 having a slot 26 in its head 28. The interior surface of the aperture of the filter section 22 is shaped to allow the threaded bolt 24 to rotate freely therein, but it will be appreciated that in some arrangements the interior surface may be threaded. The head 28 of the threaded bolt 24 is located adjacent to the filter section 22 and within the concave cup shape of the top section 12. The shaft of the bolt 24 extends through the filter section 22 and away from the head 28. A radially extending flange section 29 is located at the top of the sidewall 18.

[0049] The bottom section 14 comprises a funnel-like shape with a side wall 30 and a discharge outlet orifice 32 located at its lowest part. The side wall 30 of the bottom section has a straight section 30a and an arcuate section 30b that creates the funnel shape. A support section 34 is attached to the side wall 30 and within the concave shape, wherein the support section 34 has a hole 36 therein, which is provided with an internal threaded section.

[0050] One end of a tubular seal 40 having an internal passage 42 is attached, preferably by adhesive, to the periphery of the bottom section at a location on the side wall 30 remote from the discharge outlet orifice 32, although the end may also be heat sealed or otherwise attached to the periphery of the bottom section. The tubular seal 40 is preferably an elastomeric material, although other materials that can be folded or compressed may also be used. The tubular seal 40 may be provided with ridges or ribs (not shown) that ensure that the tubular seal 40 is compressed in a known manner so that the "fold" of the material extends radially so that the width of the tubular seal or its diameter is increased without affecting its internal passage.

[0051] To assemble the waste outlet device 10, the bottom section 14 is connected to the top section by mounting the threaded section of the support section 34 on the threads of the bolt 24 extending from the top section 12. Thus, the top section 12 and the bottom section 14 are arranged coaxially with each other. The second end of the tubular seal 40 is arranged around the outlet of the top section 12. The second end of the tubular seal 40 can be attached to the outer surface of the top section 12 to reduce the risk of fluid leaking out from between the top section 12 and the bottom section 14; however, the top section 12 can be arranged adjacent to the second end of the tubular seal 40 without being attached to the second end of the tubular seal 40.

[0052] The position of the bottom section 14 relative to the top section 12 can be adjusted by the rotation of the bolt 24. The rotation of the threaded bolt 24, which engages with the threads in the support section 34 of the bottom section 14, causes the bottom section 14 to move along the length or axis of the bolt 24. It will be appreciated that as the bottom section 14 moves away from the top section 12, the tubular seal will be pulled or stretched into the extended position. Similarly, as the bottom section 14 moves toward the top section 12, the tubular seal 40 will wrinkle, fold or compress. As discussed herein, the tubular seal 40 is designed to ensure that the internal passage therein is not affected or blocked when the tubular seal 40 is compressed.

[0053] To install the waste outlet device 10 in a product 50 having a waste orifice 52 therein, the waste outlet device 10 is placed in an extended position, wherein the top section 12 and the bottom section 14 are sufficiently spaced apart so that the bottom section 14 and the tubular seal 40 have substantially similar widths or diameters, and wherein the diameter is smaller than the diameter of the waste orifice of the product 50. Since the tubular seal 40 can be a flexible material, the width or diameter of the tubular seal 40 can be slightly larger than the width or diameter of the bottom section. The bottom section 14 and the majority of the tubular seal 40 are then placed within the waste orifice 52 so that the bottom section 14 is located on the opposite side of the waste orifice 52 from the top section 12. Once the top section 12 and the bottom section 14 are located on opposite sides of the waste orifice 52, a tool (not shown) is used to engage the slot 26 in the head 28 of the bolt 24 and rotate the bolt 24 so as to move the bottom section 14 toward the top section 12, thereby compressing the tubular seal 40. The tubular seal 40 is compressed in such a way that its width increases, which is greater than the diameter of the waste orifice 52 when the bottom section 14 is sufficiently close to the top section 12. Since the diameter of the tubular seal 40 is greater than the diameter of the waste orifice 52, the waste outlet 10 is locked to the product 50. The discharge outlet orifice 32 of the bottom section 14 can be connected to a pipe, drain or other wastewater treatment.

[0054] To remove the waste outlet 10 , the bolts 24 are rotated to move the top section 12 away from the bottom section 14 , thereby stretching the tubular seal 40 and reducing its diameter, thereby enabling the tubular seal 40 to be pulled through the waste aperture 52 .

[0055] When installed, the bottom of the top section 12 sits within the top of the bottom section 14, with the tubular seal surrounding these parts. Thus, water can flow from the inlet of the top section 12, through the top section 12 and out of the outlet of the top section 12, then flow to the inlet of the bottom section 14 and through the bottom section 14, thereby exiting from the outlet of the bottom section, and the water then exits from the outlet of the bottom section through the discharge outlet aperture 32 and from the product installed by the discharge outlet aperture 32. Thus, the top section 12 is in fluid communication with the discharge outlet aperture 32, and the tubular seal 40 reduces the risk of leakage from the waste outlet device 10.

[0056] Figure 3 and Figure 4 The second embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 1 and Figure 2 ; however, the bolt 24 is replaced by an elongated rigid shaft 60 and a compression spring 62 surrounding the elongated rigid shaft 60. Where possible, the reference numerals of the devices shown in these figures are the same as those in the drawings. Figure 1 and 2 The reference numerals are consistent.

[0057] The top section 12, the bottom section 14 and the tubular seal 40 are connected to the Figure 1 and Figure 2 The embodiment of the present invention is the same. An elongated rigid shaft 60 is mounted on the filter section 22 of the top section 12 and the bottom section 14 is mounted on the same elongated shaft 60 by placing the elongated shaft in the hole 36 of the support section 34, so that the bottom section can be moved axially along the elongated shaft 60. The end of the elongated shaft 60 away from the top section 12 is provided with a stop element 64. A compression spring 62 is arranged around the elongated rigid shaft 60 and is located between the stop element 64 and the lower side of the bottom section 14. Therefore, the compression spring 62 biases the bottom section 14 towards the top section 12, wherein the tubular seal 40 is in a compressed position.

[0058] In order to install the waste outlet device of the second embodiment, a tool 66 is passed through the filter section 22 of the top section 12, and the tool 66 is pressed against the support section 34 of the bottom section 14. The force of the tool 66 pressing against the bottom section 14 compresses the compression spring 62, thereby stretching the tubular seal 40 and reducing the diameter of the tubular seal 40. The waste outlet device can then be installed in the orifice in the product. Once in place, the tool 66 is removed from the waste outlet device, and the compression spring 62 is stretched to force the bottom section 14 toward the top section 12, thereby expanding the tubular seal 40 and fixing the device in place.

[0059] Figure 5 and Figure 6 Shown with Figure 1 and Figure 2 The waste outlet device shown is similar to the waste outlet device 80. The waste outlet device 80 has a top section 82 and a bottom section 84, both of which can be mounted on the elongated member. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The elongate member is not shown in FIG. 1 , but it will be appreciated that the various components are mounted on the elongate member in the same manner as shown in the other embodiments.

[0060] The top section 82 is in the form of a concave cup shape and has a side wall 88 leading downwardly to a discharge aperture 90 in which there is a filter section 92. The filter section 92 has an aperture 94 with a substantially smooth inner wall therein. On the side wall 88 of the top section 82 a radially extending flange section 96 is arranged.

[0061] The bottom section 84 comprises a funnel-like shape and has a sidewall 100 and a discharge outlet orifice 102 located at its lowermost portion. A support section 104 is positioned between the inlet and outlet orifices 102 of the bottom section and has a threaded orifice 106 located therein. The support section 104 may be a single rod that traverses the bottom section 84, or the support section 104 may be a filter having multiple rods and orifices therein. A U-shaped channel 108 surrounds the sidewall 100 of the bottom section 84 and is preferably coaxial therein.

[0062] Inserted and seated within the U-shaped channel 108 is a first end of a tubular seal 110, which extends beyond the top surface of the bottom section 84. The tubular seal 110 may have a radially extending flange section at its second end, and it will be appreciated that the first end may be provided with a similar structure.

[0063] As with other embodiments, the first section 82 and the second section 84 are mounted on an elongated member. In the extended position, the tubular seal 110 has a diameter sufficient to pass through an aperture in a surface to which the waste outlet device 80 is fitted, such as a sink, shower tray or bathtub, wherein the top section 82 is arranged on a first side and the bottom section 84 is arranged on an opposite second side. Once in position, the first section 82 and the second section 84 are brought closer to each other, the tubular seal 110 is compressed and thus extends outwardly on the second side of the surface. Thus, the radially extending flange 96 of the top section 82, which has a diameter greater than the diameter of the aperture to which the waste outlet device 80 is fitted, is adjacent to the first side of the surface, wherein the radially extending portion of the tubular seal 110 is sandwiched between the flange 96 of the top section 82 and the surface. On the second side, the bottom section 84 is adjacent to the surface into which the device 80 fits, and the compressed and expanded tubular seal 110 is sandwiched between the bottom section 84 held proximate to the surface and the second side of the surface.

[0064] When brought together tightly on the respective sides of the surface, the radially extending flange 96 expands and is sandwiched between the top and bottom sections. Due to the forces involved, a tight seal is formed between the first end of the tubular seal 110 and the U-shaped channel 108 and between the second end of the tubular seal 110 and the radially extending flange 96 of the top section 82.

[0065] Figure 7 and Figure 8 A bolt 120 is shown having a head section 122 and a shaft section 124. The head section has a hexagonal profile 126 for receiving a spanner and a slot 128 for receiving a flat head screwdriver. It will be appreciated that these profiles may take other shapes, such as a hexagonal internal profile for receiving a hexagonal key and / or a cross head screwdriver. The head section 122 is provided with a circumferentially extending skirt 130 having a radius 132 on the underside. The shaft section 124 is provided with an external thread 134 and with a non-threaded section 136 adjacent the head section 122, thereby allowing the bolt 120 to rotate smoothly within the top section. A passage 138 is passed through the center of the shaft section 124 to allow fluid to pass through the bolt 120.

[0066] Figures 9 to 12B Another waste outlet device 150 is shown having a top section 152 and a bottom section 154. This device 150 is more suitable for installation in a bathtub or sink having an overflow outlet to allow water to pass through the outlet of the bathtub or sink when the water receiving portion of the bathtub or sink becomes too full.

[0067] The top section 152 has a cup-shaped portion 156 having an aperture therein and having a radially extending flange 158 extending around the top surface of the cup-shaped portion. The skirt section 160 extends axially from the cup-shaped portion 156 in a direction away from the flange 158. Thus, the top section 152 has an elongated axial extension in which the aperture 162 is provided, which allows fluid communication from the outside of the skirt section 160 into the skirt section 160. Thus, the top section 152 has a first inlet in the form of an aperture in the cup-shaped portion 156 to allow water to drain from the trough or path; and a second inlet in the form of an aperture 162 in the skirt section 160 to allow water to enter the top section 152 from the overflow port 163. A seal 159 is positioned between the skirt section 160 and the flange 158.

[0068] The end of the skirt distal from the flange 158 forms an outlet 164 of the top section 152. The top section 152 also includes a filter element 166 having an aperture therethrough for receiving a bolt 168. The head 170 of the bolt 168 is wider than the aperture of the filter element 166. The shaft of the bolt 168 has external threads along at least a portion of its length.

[0069] The bottom section 154 comprises a substantially rigid cylindrical element 172 provided with an aperture 174 in its wall, the cylindrical element 172 being attached to a first end of a tubular seal 176. The tubular seal 176 extends axially and a second end of the tubular seal 176 is connected to an outlet element 178 comprising a support section 180. The support section 180 has an aperture therein for receiving a bolt 168, wherein the aperture has an internal thread capable of engaging with an external thread of the bolt 168. The outlet element 178 of the bottom section 154 may be connected to, or integral with, an outlet pipe 182. The outlet pipe may also be provided with a threaded section 184, preferably an external threaded section, to allow the outlet of the bottom section 154 to be connected to a discharge pipe.

[0070] To install the waste outlet device 150, the top section 152 and the bottom section 154 are mounted on the bolts 168 in a first extended position in which the tubular seal 176 is extended. The skirt section 160 extends toward and into the cylindrical element 172 of the bottom section 154, and the tubular seal 176 surrounds the outlet of the top section 152 and the inlet of the bottom section 154. The aperture 162 of the skirt section 160 is aligned with the aperture 174 of the cylindrical element 172, which can be achieved by one or more protrusions and recesses or grooves on the corresponding components.

[0071] When the top section 152 and the bottom section 154 are mounted on the bolts 168 and the device 150 is in the extended position, the device is fed into a sink, bathtub, shower tray or other element 186 to which the device is to be fitted. Once the top section 152 is on one side of the surface into which the device 150 is to be fitted and the bottom section 154 is on the other side of the surface, the bolts 168 are rotated to pull the support section of the bottom section 154 toward the top section 152. This compresses the tubular seal 176, and the tubular seal 176 expands radially outward due to the skirt 10 of the top section 152. The seal 159 of the top section 152 provides a seal between the device 150 and a first surface of the item to which the device 150 is fitted, and the expanded tubular seal 176 provides a seal with a second surface of the item to which the device 150 is fitted.

[0072] It will be appreciated that once the device 150 is installed in its compressed state, the seal 159 of the top section 152 and the tubular seal 176 of the bottom section 154 reduce the risk of water spilling out. Any water flowing out of a sink or bathtub in which the device may be installed will pass through the cup-shaped inlet 156 of the top section and pass to the bottom section 154. Similarly, water passing through the overflow 163 of the bathtub or sink 186 will pass through the aligned apertures 162 / 174 and pass to the bottom section 154.

[0073] FIG. 13A to FIG. 14B An embodiment of the invention suitable for installation in a shower tray is shown. The waste outlet device 200 has a top section 202 having an inlet 204 and a flange 206 extending radially at the top of the inlet 204. Extending axially from the flange 206 is an outer skirt element 208, which extends axially from the top section 202 to form a tubular outlet to the top section 202. The top section 202 has an inlet 210 into which waste water can enter. A crossbar (not shown) is provided across the diameter of the outer skirt element 208, which has a connecting aperture therein. A first end of a tubular seal 212 is substantially coaxial with the outer skirt element 208 and surrounds the outer skirt element. The tubular seal 212 encloses the outlet of the top section 202. The tubular seal 212 can be arranged so that it is positioned below the flange 206, and in one arrangement, a portion of the tubular seal 212 also extends radially.

[0074] The device 200 further comprises a bottom section 214 connected to the second end of the tubular seal 212, wherein the tubular seal 212 surrounds an inlet 216 leading to the bottom section 214. Thus, water can enter the bottom section 214 from the top section 202 via the tubular seal 212. The bottom section 214 has an outlet 218, which is arranged non-parallel to or radial to the axis of the inlet 216. Thus, any water flowing into the bottom section 214 from one direction is redirected in a different direction. The bottom section 214 has a connecting recess 220 therein, which constitutes a supporting section. The supporting section or connecting recess 220 is provided with an internal threaded portion 222 in which a bolt can be received.

[0075] To install the device 200, the device is placed into the position shown in Figure 13 and inserted into the aperture in the shower tray. Subsequently, the threaded bolt 230 passes through the connection aperture in the crossbar of the top section 202, and the bolt is received and engages with the connection recess 220 in the bottom section 214. When the bolt 230 is tightened, the top section and the bottom section are directed toward each other, which compresses the tubular seal 212. When the tubular seal is compressed, the tubular seal expands radially, and the tubular outlet 210 of the top section 202 ensures that when the tubular seal 212 is compressed during fitting, the seal 212 cannot be compressed inwardly, and therefore the seal 212 expands radially outward from the device 200. This ensures that the seal does not obstruct the internal flow path of the device 200. It will be noted that in the case where the tubular seal 212 extends radially adjacent to the flange 206, when installed, the tubular seal 212 will be compressed between the flange 206 and the shower tray, thereby forming a seal.

[0076] Once the top section 202 and the bottom section 214 are connected in the shower tray, an insert 240 is provided. The insert 240 is in the form of a cup-shaped element with an open upper surface 242 and a closed lower surface 244. The insert 240 has an "n-shaped" recess so that it can sit on the crossbar of the top section 202. The insert 240 sits above the crossbar of the top section 202 and extends to cover the head of the bolt 230.

[0077] Once the insert 240 is within the device 200, the top cover element 250 is placed into the top section 202 of the device 200. The cover element 250 includes a top surface 252 and a spacer element 254, so that the top cover element 250 engages with the top section 202 and protrudes from the top section, and a gap G is created between the flange 206 and the cover element 208, which allows water to enter the top section 202 from the radial direction and / or the axial direction. The top surface 252 may be provided with at least one aperture therein to allow water to pass through the top surface of the cover element 250. The cover element 250 also includes an internal tubular conduit 256 extending into the top section 202. The internal tubular conduit 256 extends into the top section 202 and into the insert 240, and thus has a slot to receive the crossbar of the top section 202.

[0078] The internal tubular conduit 256 forms a passage through which water can pass. Thus, when installed, water passes between the top surface 252 of the top cover element 250 and the flange 206 of the top section 202. The water then passes through the internal tubular conduit 256 and into the insert 240. Since the insert 240 is cup-shaped, it fills with water, and then, when full, the water passes over the top of the insert and into the bottom section of the device 200. In this way, the water then leaves the device 200 through the outlet 218 and enters any waste pipe connected to the device 200. The use of the insert creates a "U-bend" in the waste outlet 200, which allows a predetermined amount of water to remain in the device 200, thereby creating a seal to prevent odors from passing from the discharge and through the top section of the device 200.

[0079] Further adaptations may be included in the arrangements set out herein. For example, it will be appreciated that a compression spring arrangement may be used in conjunction with the threaded bolt to provide a failsafe in the event that the bolt and the corresponding threads of the bottom section become disengaged. Thus, the compression spring will assist in keeping the waste outlet arrangement locked in place.

[0080] Although the invention described herein is described with respect to sinks, basins, bathtubs and showers, it may also be used in other situations such as drains, containers and other applications for removing waste liquids.

[0081] The head of the bolt may be removable to reduce the risk of the waste outlet device being accidentally removed or loosened. This is particularly advantageous where the bolt is provided with a passage therethrough to allow fluid to flow through the bolt.

[0082] The tubular seal of the present invention may be in the form of a telescopic element that extends to form a tubular shape, or, as mentioned above, it may be composed of a flexible material that can shrink or compress in a known manner while ensuring that its internal passage is sufficiently open to allow fluid, particularly waste water, to flow therethrough.

[0083] The present invention has been described with respect to a threaded mechanism and a spring bias; however, adjustment, manipulation or other movement of the associated components may be accomplished by a ratchet mechanism, magnets, a rack and pinion arrangement, or another adjustment mechanism.

[0084] The top section, tubular seal and bottom section may be provided as separate elements which are connected to each other prior to mounting the waste outlet. In a preferred arrangement, the tubular seal may not be attached to the top section but may be clamped between a radially extending flange of the top section and the product to which it is mounted. Due to the force generated by an adjustment mechanism, such as a threaded section, when tightened, the flange may clamp down onto the seal to provide an adequate seal between the respective components.

[0085] The supporting section of the bottom section can be in the form of a second filter element.

[0086] The interior shape of the top section may be sized and shaped to receive a plug, thereby enabling the top section to be blocked to retain water in a sink, sink or bathtub.

[0087] The outlet of the bottom section may be axial to the inlet, or the outlet may be radial relative to the axis of the inlet of the bottom section. For example, it may be desirable to have water enter the waste outlet from the top, but water is present laterally of the water outlet or in a direction not coaxial with the inlet.

[0088] Guides or slots and projections may be employed in the respective components to reduce the risk of undesired rotation between the respective components.

[0089] The threaded bolts may be replaced with different connection mechanisms, such as bayonet fittings that will connect the associated components.

[0090] The insert may be applied to any embodiment, particularly where sealing to prevent odors may be required.

[0091] Features of one or more embodiments set forth herein may be included in other embodiments set forth herein.

Claims

1. A waste outlet having: a top section with an inlet and an outlet, the inlet and the outlet of the top section being in fluid communication with each other; and a bottom section with an inlet and an outlet, the inlet and the outlet of the bottom section being in fluid communication with each other, wherein the bottom section also has a support section located therein; It is characterized in that Prior to installation, both the top section and the bottom section are arranged on the elongated member, wherein a tubular seal encloses an outlet of the top section and an inlet of the bottom section, wherein the support sections of the top section and the bottom section are arranged on the elongated member such that the distance between the sections can be adjusted, and wherein the tubular seal has a compressed position in which the top section and the bottom section are close to each other to compress the seal and an extended position when the top section and the bottom section are spaced apart, and Wherein, when in the compressed position, the seal has a greater width than when in the extended position.

2. The waste outlet according to claim 1, wherein: The top section is provided with a radially extending flange.

3. The waste outlet of claim 1, wherein: The elongated member has a passageway therethrough.

4. The waste outlet of claim 1, wherein: The elongated member has a head section and a stem section, and a portion of the head section adjacent to the stem section is provided with a flange or a skirt.

5. The waste outlet according to claim 1, wherein: The top section is provided with an aperture through which the elongated member can pass.

6. The waste outlet of claim 1, wherein: The tubular seal is fixedly connected to or integral with the bottom section.

7. The waste outlet of claim 1, wherein: The bottom section is provided with a U-shaped rim surrounding an inlet of the bottom section, and one end of the tubular seal is seated within the U-shaped rim.

8. The waste outlet of claim 1, wherein: The elongated member is provided with an external threaded portion, and at least one of the bottom segment and the top segment is provided with a corresponding threaded segment, so that rotation of the elongated member adjusts the position of the top segment and / or the bottom segment relative to the other of the top segment and the bottom segment on the elongated member.

9. A waste outlet according to claim 8, wherein: The elongate member is provided with an aperture or recess in which a tool is received for rotating the elongate member.

10. The waste outlet of claim 1, wherein: The tubular seal is biased into the compressed position or the extended position.

11. A waste outlet according to claim 10, wherein: The bias is a spring bias.

12. A waste outlet having: a top section with an inlet and an outlet, the inlet and the outlet of the top section being in fluid communication with each other; and a bottom section with an inlet and an outlet, the inlet and the outlet of the bottom section being in fluid communication with each other, wherein the bottom section also has a support section located therein; It is characterized in that Prior to installation, both the top section and the bottom section are arranged on the elongated member, wherein a tubular seal encloses an outlet of the top section and an inlet of the bottom section, and wherein the support sections of the top section and the bottom section are arranged on the elongated member such that the distance between the sections can be adjusted, and The bottom section is provided with a U-shaped edge surrounding the inlet of the bottom section, and one end of the tubular seal is seated in the U-shaped edge.

13. A sink, shower tray or bathtub having a waste outlet according to claim 1.

14. A method of installing a waste outlet, the method comprising the steps of: Providing a waste outlet according to claim 1; placing the tubular seal of the waste outlet in the extended position; positioning the waste outlet device into an aperture with the bottom section on one side of the aperture and the top section on an opposite side of the aperture; as well as The tubular seal of the waste outlet is adjusted into the compressed position.

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