Layered water tank baffle

Abstract

Layered sink baffles are described. A sink assembly for mounting below a sink and a food waste disposer may include a baffle configured to be located in a sink drain. Such baffles of the present technology may include a first baffle above a second baffle. The first baffle layer may include a plurality of upper flaps and a plurality of gaps between the upper flaps. A plurality of upper flaps may be attached to the outer rim and spaced apart from each other such that one of the gaps is between two upper flaps in each set. The second baffle layer may include a plurality of lower flaps, and the plurality of lower flaps may be circumferentially offset compared to the plurality of upper flaps such that a portion of each lower flap is located directly below at least one of the plurality of gaps between the upper flaps.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present technology relates to sink baffles that can be installed in a sink drain and can be used with or as a component of a garbage disposer system. More specifically, the present technology relates to layered sink baffles, methods of making layered sink baffles, and garbage disposer systems, such as food waste disposer systems, having layered sink baffles. background

[0003] A food waste disposer is used to pulverize food waste into particles small enough to safely pass through a household drain. Conventional food waste disposers typically include a food delivery section, a motor section, and a grinding mechanism disposed between the food delivery section and the motor section. The food delivery section includes a housing forming an inlet or throat opening that is connected to a sink flange for receiving food waste and water. The food delivery section delivers the food waste to the grinding mechanism, and the motor section includes a motor that transmits rotational motion to a motor shaft to operate the grinding mechanism.

[0004] Additionally, in conventional food waste disposers, there is typically a baffle or splash guard that spans the throat opening. For example, in some food waste disposers, the throat baffle is inserted into the sink opening (strainer flange) and can be removed by the user from the sink side. Also, for example, in some other food waste disposers, the baffle is integrated with the mounting gasket and can only be removed when the entire disposer is disassembled from the sink.

[0005] The baffle of a food waste disposer can serve any of a number of different purposes. For example, in at least some conventional embodiments, during operation of the disposer, the baffle prevents splashback or particle ejection during grinding. Also, for example, in many or most (if not all) conventional embodiments, the baffle constitutes the primary user interface with the disposer, as food waste must be passed through the baffle, typically with the assistance of an operator, to enter the grinding chamber. Also, for example, in at least some conventional embodiments, the baffle prevents foreign debris, such as silverware or sponges, from entering the disposer during operation and when not in use.

[0006] Although some conventional baffles are effective in reducing noise during grinding, at least some such conventional baffles may have undesirable side effects. For example, the presence of a baffle in a sink may cause water to flow back into the sink. In some cases, when water flows through the baffle into the grinding chamber of the processor, the air in the grinding chamber is displaced and flows back up through the baffle to exit the grinding chamber. Although there may be vent features or openings in the baffle that are intended to facilitate the discharge of displaced air from the processor, in some cases, the flowing water blocks the vent openings before the displaced air has been discharged, which prevents or restricts air from leaving the grinding chamber. As a result, bubbles may form under the baffle, and the bubbles formed under the baffle prevent water from being discharged through the baffle and cause water to flow back into the filter flange and sink. Such an operation may appear to indicate to the user that the sink is clogged and cause concern to the user. In addition, even if the user can easily improve this operation by pressing down on the baffle and displacing the trapped air (which may be colloquially referred to as "baffle burping"), the user may find it inconvenient or unpleasant to take such action.

[0007] In addition, for example, the presence of a conventional baffle may make it difficult for food waste to enter the grinding chamber of the processor, which is undesirable. In some cases, in order to achieve the desired passage of food into the grinding chamber, the user will use their hands or various utensils or devices to push the food through the baffle. However, the user may find it inconvenient or unpleasant to take such action. In addition, although other conventional baffles have folds or fins that can quickly sag or otherwise bend downward when the baffle is in use to create a larger central opening and reduce the resistance of the baffle to food waste entering the processor, a food processor that employs such a baffle may be viewed by some users as operating in an overly aggressive manner in terms of the extent to which the processor draws food into the grinding chamber of the processor. In addition, in some embodiments, the presence of a drooping baffle may also increase the probability of foreign debris entering the processor. In addition, baffles with folds or fins that are designed to bend downward easily to allow food to pass through into the processor also tend to bend upward easily, which may allow food to flow back from the grinding chamber of the processor into the sink during operation, which is highly undesirable.

[0008] It will be appreciated that it is generally desirable for a given throat baffle of a given disposer to meet a variety of different functional objectives all when implemented in conjunction with that given disposer. Indeed, when implemented in conjunction with a given disposer, it is generally desirable for a single baffle to meet at least two or more or all of the following objectives when operating at different times or under different circumstances (if not simultaneously or substantially simultaneously): the baffle should have folds that do not sag, or at least do not sag excessively; the baffle should operate to prevent or at least significantly inhibit material from exiting the grinding chamber through the baffle; the baffle should also allow suitable material (e.g., food waste) to easily enter the grinding chamber; the baffle should also make it relatively difficult for unsuitable material to enter the grinding chamber; the baffle should attenuate noise (e.g., noise from the grinding chamber when the disposer is operating); and the baffle should allow sufficient water flow, or in some cases promote high water flow, for grinding and promoting the flow of material out of the disposer through the drain outlet.

[0009] Nonetheless, when implemented in conjunction with a given processor, it may be challenging to satisfy several or all of the various functional goals described above with a single baffle, particularly where several of these functional goals often conflict with one another to a significant degree. For example, as already discussed, while some conventional baffles are capable of providing significant noise attenuation, such conventional baffles may exhibit one or more side effects resulting from the design features provided to achieve such noise attenuation. Thus, with respect to at least some conventional noise reduction baffles, users will complain that the baffle makes it too difficult for food to pass through into the grinding chamber (e.g., the food cannot pass through the baffle as freely as desired), but are otherwise satisfied with the level of noise reduction associated with the processor during grinding operations.

[0010] Furthermore, not only is it often difficult to substantially simultaneously meet various functional objectives, but the difficulty in achieving this using a particular baffle design may be exacerbated by the presence of many different possible installation arrangements, configurations, and environments in which the baffle may be implemented. For example, different plumbing arrangements (e.g., different kitchen faucets having a wide variety of flow rates) or water temperatures experienced during operation of different processors and associated baffles may affect the ability of water to flow through the baffle, such that a given baffle will achieve a desired water flow when implemented in conjunction with one plumbing arrangement or when the flowing water is at a first temperature, but will not achieve the same desired water flow when implemented in conjunction with a different plumbing arrangement or when the flowing water is at a second temperature.

[0011] Thus, conventional baffles are often particularly suited for use in conjunction with particular installation settings, arrangements, or environments, where these baffles may allow for one or more specific functional goals to be achieved that are not achieved in other installation settings, arrangements, or environments. Conversely, given the specific functional goals that may be achieved when a particular baffle design is implemented in an installation setting, arrangement, or environment, these particular installation settings, arrangements, or environments may be particularly suited to accommodate a particular conventional baffle design and not to accommodate other baffle designs. Accordingly, in order to achieve different functional goals at different times in conjunction with a particular facility setting, arrangement, or environment, it may be necessary to replace one baffle with a different baffle. Because the characteristics of conventional baffle designs are often suitable for achieving one or more specific functional goals (and not suitable for achieving other goals) when implemented in conjunction with a particular installation setting, arrangement, or environment, users may be subject to undesirable limitations in the methods that can be used to solve various problems in various processor implementation environments.

[0012] Therefore, it would be desirable if one or more improved baffles or processor systems employing baffles could be developed that overcome one or more of the above-described limitations associated with conventional baffles or processor systems, or achieve one or more other goals related to baffles or processor systems employing baffles.

[0013] Overview

[0014] Disclosed herein are tiered sink baffles, methods of making tiered sink baffles, and garbage disposer systems, such as food waste disposer systems, having tiered sink baffles.

[0015] In at least one aspect, a layered gutter baffle is provided, the layered gutter baffle comprising an outer edge, a first baffle layer, and a second baffle layer. The outer edge extends circumferentially around a central axis. The first baffle layer comprises a plurality of upper fins and a plurality of gaps between the upper fins. The plurality of upper fins are attached to the outer edge and are spaced apart from each other such that one of the gaps is located between each set of two upper fins.

[0016] In at least a second aspect, a food waste disposer system is provided, the food waste disposer system comprising the layered sink baffle of the first aspect. The food waste disposer system also includes a food waste disposer and a mounting assembly configured to attach the food waste disposer to a sink. The mounting assembly includes the layered sink baffle, a sink flange, and an upper mounting flange. The sink flange is configured to attach to the sink, and the upper mounting flange is configured to couple the disposer assembly to the sink flange.

[0017] Examples of layered sink baffles and food waste disposer systems having layered sink baffles may also include one or more of the following features. Each upper wing may include a first hinge end and a first radially inward end, the first hinge end being attached to the outer edge by a first hinge, wherein each upper wing extends radially inward from the first hinge toward the central axis to the first radially inward end. Each upper wing may include an anti-reverse stop attached to the hinge end of the upper wing, wherein each anti-reverse stop extends upward from the hinge end of the upper wing to which the anti-reverse stop is attached, and wherein each anti-reverse stop has a radially outward end that is spaced from the outer edge when the wing to which the anti-reverse stop is attached is in a stationary position. The width of the first hinge end of each upper wing may be greater than the width of the first radially inward end of the upper wing. The first hinge end of each upper wing may include at least one upper wing notch, the at least one upper wing notch forming an opening configured to allow air and water to pass through the first baffle layer. The second baffle layer may include an annular ring attached to the outer edge, and each lower wing is attached to the annular ring. The outer edge may include an inner annular groove, and the annular ring may be attached to the outer edge by the annular ring being received in the annular groove. The outer edge may include at least one locating slot, and the annular ring may include at least one locating tab, and the at least one locating slot may receive the at least one locating tab when the annular ring is received in the inner annular groove at an appropriate rotational position. Each lower wing may include a second hinge end and a second radially inward end, the second hinge end being attached to the annular ring by a second hinge, wherein each lower wing extends radially inwardly from the second hinge toward the central axis to the second radially inward end. The width of the second hinge end of each lower wing may be greater than the width of the second radially inward end of the lower wing. The second hinge end of each lower wing may include at least one lower wing notch, the at least one lower wing notch forming an opening configured to allow air and water to pass through the first baffle layer.

[0018] In at least a third aspect, a method of manufacturing a layered gutter baffle is provided, the method comprising forming an outer edge and a first baffle layer, forming a second baffle layer, and attaching the second baffle layer to the outer edge. In some examples, the method may include one or more of the following additional features. Forming the outer edge and the first baffle layer may include integrally molding the outer edge and the first baffle layer. Forming the second baffle layer may include molding the second baffle layer. In examples where the outer edge includes at least one locating slot, the second baffle layer includes an annular ring, and the annular ring includes at least one locating tab, attaching the second baffle layer to the outer edge may include aligning at least one locating tab on the annular ring with at least one locating slot on the outer edge. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] For purposes of illustration and description, specific examples have been chosen and are shown in the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the specification.

[0021] Figure 1 is a side view of one example of a food waste disposer system of the present technology mounted relative to a sink (shown in cross-section).

[0022] Figure 2 It is not mounted on the sink. Figure 1 Front perspective view of a food waste disposer system.

[0023] Figure 3 is a top plan view of one example of a layered gutter baffle of the present technology having a first embodiment of a second baffle layer of the present technology.

[0024] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Cross-sectional view of a layered sink baffle.

[0025] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 Bottom perspective view of a layered sink backsplash.

[0026] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A bottom plan view of a portion of a layered gutter baffle including an outer rim and a first baffle layer.

[0027] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A bottom plan view of a second baffle layer of a layered gutter baffle separated from other portions of the baffle.

[0028] Figure 8 It is available for Figure 3 A side view of a second embodiment of a second baffle layer of the present technology in a layered gutter baffle.

[0029] Fig. 9 is a bottom plan view of a second example of a layered gutter baffle of the present technology having Figure 8 A second embodiment of the second baffle layer.

[0030] Fig.10 is a flow chart of a method of manufacturing a layered gutter baffle of the present technology.

[0031] Although the various embodiments discussed herein may be modified and in alternative forms, aspects thereof have been shown by way of example in the accompanying drawings and described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described, but is intended to include all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, the terms "example" and "embodiment" used throughout this application are only by way of illustration, not limitation. The accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and unless otherwise indicated, the same reference numerals are used in different drawings to indicate similar or identical items. In addition, directional terms used herein, such as "upward" and "downward" refer to the direction of the page relative to the accompanying drawings as shown. Detailed Description

[0033] The present technology relates to baffles that can be used in sinks, particularly sink drains, and baffles for use in such food waste disposer systems, and food waste disposer systems that can be installed under a sink.

[0034] Figure 1-Figure 2 A layered gutter baffle 200 ( Figure 2 ) is an example of a food waste disposer system 100 of the present technology. Figure 3-Figure 7 One example of a tiered sink baffle 200 is shown that may be used as a baffle in an assembled assembly of a food waste disposer system 100 or as a sink baffle alone (ie, separate from the food waste disposer system 100). Figure 8 and Fig. 9 Another example of a tiered sink baffle 300 is shown that may be used as a baffle in an assembled assembly of a food waste disposer system 100 or as a sink baffle alone (ie, separate from the food waste disposer system 100). Fig.10 A flow chart is shown of a method 400 of making a layered gutter baffle of the present technology.

[0035] Figure 1 is a side view (shown in cross-section) of one embodiment of a food waste disposer system 100 shown installed or mounted relative to sink 10 . Figure 1 In particular, a cross-sectional view of sink 10 is provided to better illustrate how food waste disposer system 100 is mounted relative to sink 10 . Figure 2 A front perspective view of food waste disposer system 100 is provided in a detached state, not mounted relative to a sink.

[0036] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2, food waste disposer system 100 includes disposer assembly 102, which includes food waste disposer 104 and mounting assembly (or sink flange assembly) 106, which is configured to attach food waste disposer 104 to sink 10. As used herein, the term "configured to" means that a component is designed and formed in a structural and functional manner to perform any operation that the component is said to be configured to perform.

[0037] The mounting assembly 106 includes a layered sink baffle 200, a sink flange (or filter flange) 108, and an upper mounting flange 110. It should be understood that Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of both the sink 10 and the sink flange 108 of the food waste disposer system 100 is provided, wherein both cross-sections are taken along the same vertical plane. The sink flange 108 is configured and can be attached to the sink 10, and the upper mounting flange 110 can be configured to couple the food waste disposer 104 to the sink flange 108.

[0038] exist Figure 1 , the food waste disposer system 100 is positioned vertically or substantially vertically below the sink 10, and the schematic center axis 112 is shown as extending vertically or substantially vertically downward from the sink 10, through the assembly assembly 106 (including the sink flange 108 and the layered sink baffle 200), into the grinding chamber within the food waste disposer 104 of the disposer assembly 102.

[0039] Figure 3-Figure 7 An example of a layered gutter baffle 200 of the present technology is shown. Figure 3-Figure 5 The layered gutter shield 200 is shown as a composite entity. Figure 6-Figure 7 An isolated portion of the layered gutter baffle 200 is shown.

[0040] refer to Figure 3-Figure 5 , the layered tank baffle 200 includes an outer edge 202. The outer edge 202 can be circumferentially disposed about the schematic central axis 112 (eg, Figure 4 The outer rim 202 may be annular, such as disk-shaped or cylindrical, and may have a generally circular cross-section, or may have any other suitable shape. The outer rim 202 includes an outer surface 204 that is configured to abut against a complementary inner surface of the sink flange 108 when the layered sink baffle 200 is implemented therein. The outer rim 202 also includes an inner surface 206.

[0041] like Figure 4 and Figure 5As best shown in FIG. 1 , the outer surface 204 may include an outer annular groove (or depression) 208 that may extend circumferentially around at least a portion of the outer edge 202 of the tiered sink baffle 200, and as shown, extends circumferentially around the entire circumference of the outer edge 202 of the tiered sink baffle 200. The outer annular groove 208 may be configured to receive therein a complementary annular protrusion or rib (not shown) formed along the inner surface of the sink flange 108 when the tiered sink baffle 200 is fully positioned into the sink flange 108. By virtue of this interaction between the outer annular groove 208 and the complementary annular rib of the sink flange 108, the tiered sink baffle 200 may be positioned relative to, supported by, and retained within (and fixed or substantially fixed in position relative to) the sink flange 108 once the rib of the sink flange has been received by the outer annular groove 208. In particular, the interaction of outer annular groove 208 and complementary annular rib enables layered sink baffle 200 to be relatively easily positioned within sink flange 108 and axially positioned along schematic center axis 112 at a desired axial position along sink flange 108 (e.g., at a desired vertical level) by a person installing the baffle.

[0042] However, it should be understood that in other embodiments encompassed herein, the tiered sink baffle 200 may have one or more other features in addition to or in place of the outer annular groove 208, and / or the sink flange 108 may have one or more other features in addition to or in place of the complementary annular ribs that allow the tiered sink baffle 200 to be secured in place relative to, supported by, and retained within the sink flange 108.

[0043] In addition, although Figure 3-Figure 6 100 is shown as having a disc-shaped or cylindrical outer edge 202, but in other embodiments contemplated herein, the tiered sink baffle 200 may take another form that is not cylindrical but another shape. For example, in some other embodiments, the tiered sink baffle 200 may be oval in shape, square or substantially square (e.g., roughly square but with rounded corners) in shape, or any other suitable shape. To the extent that the tiered sink baffle 200 has a shape that is not disc-shaped or cylindrical, other components of the food waste disposer system 100 (such as the sink flange 108) may also be modified accordingly to complement the shape of the tiered sink baffle 200.

[0044] like Figure 3 to Figure 4 and Figure 6As best shown in FIG. 2 , the layered gutter baffle 200 includes a first baffle layer 210. The first baffle layer 210 includes a plurality of upper fins (or petals) 212 and a plurality of gaps 214 between the upper fins 212. The plurality of upper fins 212 are attached to the outer edge 202 and are spaced apart from each other such that one of the gaps 214 is defined by and located between each group of two upper fins 212. Although the illustrated embodiment shows a first baffle layer 210 including eight upper fins 212, it should be understood that any suitable number of fins 212 may be used, such as five fins, six fins, seven fins, nine fins, ten fins, or any other suitable number of fins. The number of fins 212 used in the first baffle layer 210 may affect the tendency of any given fin to move upward or downward, and may depend on the desired level of resistance to upward and downward movement of the fins 212.

[0045] like Figure 3-Figure 5 and Figure 7 As best shown in FIG. 1 , the layered gutter baffle 200 includes a second baffle layer 216 attached to the outer rim 202. The second baffle layer 216 is attached to the outer rim 202 below the first baffle layer 210. The second baffle layer 216 includes a plurality of lower fins (or petals) 218 ​​and may include a plurality of gaps 220 between the lower fins 218. The second baffle layer 216 includes an annular ring 222 attached to the outer rim, and each lower fin 218 is attached to the annular ring 222. The plurality of lower fins 218 may be spaced apart from one another such that one of the gaps 220 is defined by and between each set of two lower fins 218. Although the illustrated embodiment shows a second baffle layer 216 including eight lower fins 218, it should be understood that any suitable number of fins 218 may be used, such as five fins, six fins, seven fins, nine fins, ten fins, or any other suitable number of fins. The number of lower fins 218 may be selected based on the same or different considerations as the number of upper fins 212, and the number of lower fins 218 may be the same or different than the number of upper fins 212. Similarly, although the upper fins 212 and the lower fins 218 are Figure 3 218, but upper fins 212 and lower fins 218 may have any suitable lengths and may have different lengths. For example, upper fins 212 may be longer than lower fins 218, or lower fins 218 may be longer than upper fins 212. Making at least one of upper fins 212 or lower fins 218 longer than the other may reduce splashing behavior through the center of tiered sink baffle 200 and / or may reduce noise transmitted through the center of tiered sink baffle 200 during operation of the processor.

[0046] The first baffle layer 210 and the second baffle layer 216 can be coaxial relative to each other, each centered about the schematic central axis 112. However, the second baffle layer 216 and the corresponding plurality of lower fins 218 are circumferentially offset compared to the plurality of upper fins 212 so that a portion of each lower fin 218 is directly below at least one of the plurality of gaps 214 between the upper fins 212. The upper fins 212 and the lower fins 218 can have the same size or different sizes. Each lower fin 218 is larger than the gap 214 between the two upper fins 212. Therefore, with respect to the first lower fin 218, when the second baffle layer 216 is installed, a first portion of the first lower fin 218 is below a portion of the first upper fin 212, a second portion of the first lower fin 218 is directly below the gap 214 between the first upper fin 212 and the second upper fin 212, and a third portion of the first lower fin 218 is below a portion of the second upper fin 212.

[0047] The annular ring 222 may be attached to the outer edge 202 in any suitable manner. Figure 4-Figure 6 As shown, the outer rim 202 may include an inner annular groove 224 that is configured and does receive and retain the annular ring 222 .

[0048] In addition, the annular ring 222 may include at least one locating tab 226, and the outer edge 202 may include at least one locating slot 228, which is configured to and does receive the at least one locating tab 226 of the annular ring 222 when the annular ring 222 is secured in the inner annular groove 224 in an appropriate rotational position. The appropriate rotational position is a position in which the upper wing 212 and the lower wing 218 are in a desired circumferential offset alignment. For example, Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the outer edge 202 includes two locating slots 228 , and the annular ring 222 includes two locating tabs 226 . Figure 7 Also shown is an annular ring 222 having two locating tabs 226. When the annular ring 222 is inserted into the outer rim 202 in the proper rotational position, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the annular ring 222 is received and secured within the inner annular groove 224 , and each locating tab 226 is received within a locating slot 228 .

[0049] like Figure 4 and Figure 6As best shown in FIG. 2 , each upper fin 212 of the first baffle layer 210 may include a hinge end 232 and a first radially inward end 234. Each upper fin 212 may be attached to the inner surface 206 of the outer edge 202 via a first hinge 236. The respective hinge 236 and upper fin 212 may be integrally formed relative to each other and may also be integrally formed relative to the outer edge 202. In such examples, each upper fin 212 extends radially inward from the first hinge 236 toward the schematic central axis 112. In the illustrated example, each upper fin 212 extends radially inward toward the schematic central axis 112, but not all the way to the schematic central axis 112. Thus, each upper fin 212 extends radially inward from the first hinge 236 to the first radially inward end 234, and the radially inward ends 234 of the plurality of fins 212 define a first central aperture 244 positioned circumferentially about the schematic central axis 112.

[0050] Similarly, if Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 As best shown in FIG. 1 , each lower fin 218 of the second baffle layer 216 may include a second hinge end 238 and a second radially inward end 240. Each lower fin 218 may be attached to the annular ring 222 via a second hinge 242. The respective second hinge 242 and lower fin 218 may be integrally formed relative to each other and may also be integrally formed relative to the annular ring 222. In such examples, each lower fin 218 extends radially inward from the second hinge 242 toward the schematic central axis 112. In the illustrated example, each lower fin 218 extends radially inward toward the schematic central axis 112, but does not extend all the way to the schematic central axis 112. Thus, each lower fin 218 extends radially inward from the second hinge 242 to a second radially inward end 240 , and the radially inward ends 240 of the plurality of fins 218 define a second central aperture 244 positioned circumferentially about the schematic central axis 112 , and the second central aperture 244 may be coaxial with the first central aperture 244 .

[0051] like Figure 4 As best shown in FIG. 1 , the thickness of each first hinge 236 can be less than the thickness of each upper wing 212. Similarly, the thickness of each second hinge 242 can be less than the thickness of each lower wing 218. The thickness and width of the first hinge 236 and the second hinge 242 can be determined based on, for example, the upper wing 212 and the lower wing 218, respectively, are bent downward to allow food to pass through the baffle into the food waste disposer 104 (e.g., Figure 1-Figure 2 The tear resistance and force required vary depending on factors such as (as shown).

[0052] When viewed from the top, each upper fin 212 and each lower fin 218 may be generally shaped as a wedge. In other words, the first hinge end 232 of each upper fin 212 may be wider than the first radially inward end 234 of the upper fin 212, and the second hinge end 238 of each lower fin 218 may be wider than the second radially inward end 240 of the lower fin 218. The first radially inward end 234 of each upper fin 212 and the second radially inward end 240 of each lower fin 218 may have any suitable shape and may be pointed or may be truncated.

[0053] like Figure 6 As shown, each upper wing 212 may include at least one upper wing notch 246. In at least some examples, the first hinge end 232 or the first hinge 236 may include at least one upper wing notch 246. At least one upper wing notch 246 may be configured to allow air and water to pass through the first baffle layer 202. As shown, each upper wing 212 may include two upper wing notches 246, one on each side of the upper wing 212. Each upper wing notch 246 may have any suitable shape, such as an inclined, semi-circular, semi-elliptical or other contour, curved or notched. The first upper wing notch 246 on the first upper wing 212 may be aligned with the second upper wing notch 246 on the second wing 212 to cooperatively form a large upper wing opening 248, which may be generally circular, oval or have any other suitable shape.

[0054] like Figure 7 As shown, each lower wing 218 may include at least one lower wing notch 250. In at least some examples, the second hinge end 238 or the second hinge 242 may include at least one lower wing notch 250. The at least one lower wing notch 250 may be configured to allow air and water to pass through the second baffle layer 216. As shown, each lower wing 218 may include two lower wing notches 250, one on each side of the lower wing 218. Each lower wing notch 250 may have any suitable shape, such as semicircular, semi-elliptical or other contoured, curved or notched. The first lower wing notch 250 on the first lower wing 218 may be aligned with the second lower wing notch 250 on the second lower wing 218 to cooperatively form a large lower wing opening 252, which may be generally circular, oval or have any other suitable shape.

[0055] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4In at least some examples of the baffle 200 of the present technology, the upper wing 212 of the first baffle layer 210 may include an anti-reverse stop 254 attached to the first hinge end 232 of each upper wing 212. Some examples of anti-reverse stops are shown and described in U.S. patent application serial number 18 / 108382 filed on February 10, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In such an example, each anti-reverse stop 254 can extend upward from the first hinge end 232 of the wing 212 to which the anti-reverse stop 254 is attached. In addition, as Figure 3 2, each anti-reverse stop 254 may have a radially outward end 256 that is spaced from the inner surface 206 of the outer edge 202 when the upper wing 212 to which the anti-reverse stop 254 is attached is in the rest position. During operation, food waste may push each or any of the upper wing 212 and / or the lower wing 218 upward into a raised position. When the food waste pushes the lower wing 218 upward, the lower wing 218 will also tend to push upward any upper wing 212 that is in contact with the lower wing. Each anti-reverse stop 254 is configured and therefore may abut the inner surface 206 of the outer edge 202 when the upper wing 212 to which the anti-reverse stop 254 is attached is in the raised position, and thus provide resistance to the upper wing 212 to which the anti-reverse stop 254 is attached to move upward beyond the raised position.

[0056] The amount of resistance to upward movement of the upper wing 212 provided by the anti-reverse stop 254 on the upper wing 212 can depend on a number of factors, including, for example, the height, shape, and length of the anti-reverse stop 254, and the distance 258 separating the radially outward end 256 from the inner surface 206 of the outer edge 202 when the upper wing 212 to which the anti-reverse stop 254 is attached is in a stationary position.

[0057] like Figure 3-Figure 4 As shown, each anti-reverse stop 254 can extend radially inward along at least a portion of the length of the upper wing 212 to which the anti-reverse stop 254 is attached. In at least some examples, each anti-reverse stop 254 can extend radially inward along about 10% to about 90% of the length of the upper wing 212 to which the anti-reverse stop 254 is attached. In some such examples, each anti-reverse stop 254 can extend radially inward along about 30% to about 50% of the length of the upper wing 212 to which the anti-reverse stop 254 is attached. In at least one such example, each anti-reverse stop 254 can extend radially inward along about 35% to about 45% of the length of the upper wing 212 to which the anti-reverse stop 254 is attached.

[0058] Each anti-reverse stop 254 can have any suitable shape. Figure 3-Figure 4 As best shown in , each anti-reverse stop 254 can have a pyramidal shape. In alternative examples, the anti-reverse stop 254 can have other shapes, such as a wedge, a rectangle, or any other suitable shape. In addition, each anti-reverse stop 254 can be tapered so that the thickness of the anti-reverse stop 254 is greatest at the radially outward end 256, and the thickness of the anti-reverse stop 254 decreases as the anti-reverse stop extends radially inward. In at least some examples, each anti-reverse stop 254 can have the same shape as each other anti-reverse stop 254. In other examples, one or more of the anti-reverse stops 254 can have a different shape than one or more of the other anti-reverse stops 254.

[0059] refer to Figure 3 , when the upper fin 212 to which the anti-reverse stop 254 is attached is in a resting position, the distance 258 that the radially outward end 256 is spaced from the inner surface 206 of the outer rim 202 can vary depending on the size and shape of the anti-reverse stop 254 and the degree of resistance required to prevent food waste from flowing back into the sink in a particular application. In at least some examples, when the upper fin 212 to which the anti-reverse stop 254 is attached is in a resting position, the radially outward end 256 of each anti-reverse stop 254 can be spaced from the outer rim by a distance greater than about 0.01 inches or less than 0.10 inches, such as, for example, a distance of about 0.025 inches to about 0.075 inches.

[0060] Figure 8 and Fig. 9 Another example of a layered gutter baffle 300 of the present technology is shown, which includes a second embodiment of a second baffle layer 302 . Figure 8 A side view of a second embodiment of the second baffle layer 302 is shown in a detached state. Fig. 9 A bottom plan view of the layered gutter shield 300 is shown as a composite entity.

[0061] refer to Fig. 9 , the layered gutter baffle 300 includes an outer rim 302 and a first baffle layer 304, which in this example are the same as the outer rim 202 and the first baffle layer 210 discussed above with respect to the layered gutter baffle 200. Therefore, the outer rim 302 and the first baffle layer 304 have each of the features of the outer rim 202 and the first baffle layer 210 discussed above with respect to the layered gutter baffle 200.

[0062] refer to Figure 8 and Fig. 9, the layered gutter baffle 300 includes a second baffle layer 306 attached to the outer edge 302. The second baffle layer 306 is attached to the outer edge 302 below the first baffle layer 304. The second baffle layer 306 includes a plurality of lower fins (or petals) 308, and may include a plurality of gaps 310 between the lower fins 308. The second baffle layer 306 may include an annular ring 312 attached to the outer edge 302, and each lower fin 308 is attached to the annular ring 312.

[0063] The plurality of lower fins 308 may be spaced apart from one another such that one of the gaps 310 is defined by and between each group of two lower fins 308. Although the illustrated embodiment shows a second baffle layer 306 comprising eight lower fins 308, it will be appreciated that any suitable number of lower fins 308 may be used, such as five fins, six fins, seven fins, nine fins, ten fins, or any other suitable number of fins. The number of lower fins 308 may be selected based on considerations that are the same or different than the number of upper fins 212, and the number of lower fins 308 may be the same or different than the number of upper fins 212. Similarly, the upper fins 212 and the lower fins 308 may have substantially the same length, the upper fins 212 and the lower fins 308 may have any suitable length, and may have different lengths. For example, as Fig. 9 As shown, lower fin 308 can be longer than upper fin 212 (not shown). Making lower fin 308 longer than upper fin 212 can reduce splashing behavior through the center of stratified sink baffle 300 and / or can reduce noise transmitted through the center of stratified sink baffle 300 during operation of the processor.

[0064] like Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As shown, the lower fin 308 of the second baffle layer 306 may include a second hinge end 316 and a second radially inward end 318. Fig. 9 As best shown in FIG. 1 , each lower wing 308 of the layered gutter baffle 300 has a first main body section 322 extending from the second hinge 320 toward the second radially inward end 318 along a portion of the length of the lower wing 308 to a transition point 326. Each lower wing 308 of the layered gutter baffle 300 also has a second main body section 324 extending from the first main body section 322 along a portion of the length of the lower wing 308 and including the second radially inward end 318. The first main body section 322 has a uniform width or can taper at a first angle. The second main body section 324 has a width that tapers at a second angle greater than the first angle. The gap 310 defined by and between each pair of lower wing 308 is closed or substantially closed at the transition point 326 between the first main body section 322 and the second main body section 324.

[0065] refer to Fig. 9 and Fig.10 , the first baffle layer 304 and the second baffle layer 306 can be coaxial relative to each other, each centered about the schematic central axis 112. The first baffle layer 304 includes a plurality of upper fins (or petals) 314 and a plurality of gaps (in the middle) between the upper fins 314. Figure 3-Figure 6 However, the second baffle layer 306 and the corresponding plurality of lower fins 308 are circumferentially offset from the plurality of upper fins 314 such that a portion of each lower fin 308 is located in the plurality of gaps between the upper fins 314 (in Figure 3-Figure 6 214).

[0066] Each lower wing 308 can be attached to the annular ring 312 via a second hinge 320. The respective second hinge 320 and lower wing 308 can be integrally formed with respect to each other and / or can be integrally formed with respect to the annular ring 312. In such examples, each lower wing 308 extends radially inward from the second hinge 320 toward the schematic central axis 112. In the illustrated example, each lower wing 308 extends radially inward to or substantially to the schematic central axis 112.

[0067] The annular ring 312 may be attached to the outer rim 302 in any suitable manner. For example, the outer rim 302 may include an inner annular groove 328 ( Figure 4-Figure 6 224), the inner annular groove 328 is configured to and does receive and retain the annular ring 312. In addition, the annular ring 312 may include at least one locating tab 330, and the outer edge 302 may include at least one locating slot 332, when the annular ring 312 is fixed in the inner annular groove 328 in an appropriate rotational position, the at least one locating slot 332 is configured to and does receive the at least one locating tab 330 of the annular ring 312. The appropriate rotational position is a position where the upper wing 304 and the lower wing 308 are in a desired circumferential offset alignment. For example, as Fig. 9 As shown, the outer edge 302 includes two positioning slots 332, and the annular ring 312 includes two positioning tabs 330. When the annular ring 312 is inserted into the outer edge 302 in the appropriate rotational position, as shown in FIG. Fig. 9 As shown, the annular ring 312 is received and secured within the inner annular groove 328 , and each locating tab 330 is received within a locating slot 332 .

[0068] The layered gutter baffles of the present technology (such as layered gutter baffles 200 and layered gutter baffles 300) can be made of nitrile rubber in its entirety or any of its parts (including baffle layers, outer edges, hinges, fins, and anti-reverse stops), or made of one or more other materials instead of or in addition to nitrile rubber. Such other materials may include other elastomers, such as thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) or silicone rubber. Each part of the layered gutter baffles of the present technology (including outer edges, hinges, fins, and anti-reverse stops) can be made of the same material or different materials. In some examples, each hinge, each fin, and each anti-reverse stop are formed integrally with the outer edge.

[0069] The annular rings of the present technology, such as annular ring 222 and annular ring 312, can be made of any suitable material and can have a core ring made of a first material and an overmolded outer layer made of a different material (e.g., the material from which the lower wing is made). The core ring can be any suitable material, such as plastic or metal.

[0070] In at least some examples, the components of the layered gutter shield 200 or 300 of the present technology may be formed using any suitable manufacturing process, such as molding. Fig.10 One example of a method 400 of manufacturing a layered gutter baffle 200 or 300 of the present technology is shown in FIG.

[0071] The method 400 may begin at step 402, which includes forming an outer rim and a first baffle layer. The forming may be accomplished by molding the outer rim and the first baffle layer, which may include integrally molding the outer rim and the first baffle layer. The outer rim and the first baffle layer may structurally form the outer rim 202 and the first baffle layer 210 described above. For example, the outer rim 202 may include at least one locating slot 228.

[0072] The method may proceed to step 404, which includes forming a second baffle layer. The forming may be accomplished by molding the second baffle layer. The second baffle layer may be structurally formed as the second baffle layer 216 or the second baffle layer 302 as described above. For example, the second baffle layer 216 / 306 may include an annular ring 222 / 312, and the annular ring may include at least one locating tab 226 / 330. Although the method 400 is described as first performing step 402, and then performing step 404, it should be understood that these steps may be performed in any order and may be performed simultaneously.

[0073] The method may proceed to step 406, which includes attaching the second baffle layer to the outer rim. In examples where the outer rim 202 includes at least one locating slot 228, the second baffle layer 216 / 306 includes an annular ring 222 / 312, and the annular ring 222 / 312 includes at least one locating tab 226 / 330, attaching the second baffle layer to the outer rim may include aligning the at least one locating tab 226 / 330 on the annular ring with the at least one locating slot 228 on the outer rim.

[0074] One or more embodiments covered herein may be advantageous in any of a variety of aspects. For example, a baffle using the present technology may reduce noise emitted from a sink drain during operation of a disposer. As another example, a baffle of the present technology may reduce or prevent backflow of water and food particles from a sink drain.

[0075] From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that, although specific examples have been described herein for purposes of illustration, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. It is therefore intended that the foregoing detailed description be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive, and that the appended claims, including all equivalents, are intended to particularly point out and distinctly claim the subject matter claimed.

Claims

1. A layered water tank baffle, comprising: an outer rim extending circumferentially about the central axis; a first baffle layer comprising a plurality of upper fins and a plurality of gaps between the upper fins, wherein the plurality of upper fins are attached to the outer edge and are spaced apart from one another such that one of the gaps is located between each set of two upper fins; and A second baffle layer is attached to the outer edge below the first baffle layer, the second baffle layer including a plurality of lower fins, wherein the plurality of lower fins are circumferentially offset from the plurality of upper fins such that a portion of each lower fin is located directly below at least one of the plurality of gaps between the upper fins.

2. The layered water tank baffle according to claim 1, wherein: Each upper winglet includes a first hinge end and a first radially inward end, wherein the first hinge end is attached to the outer edge by a first hinge, wherein each upper winglet extends radially inwardly toward the central axis from the first hinge to the first radially inward end.

3. The layered water tank baffle according to claim 2, wherein: Each upper wing includes an anti-reversal stop attached to the hinge end of the upper wing, wherein each anti-reversal stop extends upward from the hinge end of the upper wing to which the anti-reversal stop is attached, and wherein each anti-reversal stop has a radially outward end that is spaced apart from the outer edge when the wing to which the anti-reversal stop is attached is in a static position.

4. The layered water tank baffle according to claim 2, wherein: The width of the first hinge end of each upper wing is greater than the width of the first radially inward end of the upper wing.

5. The layered water tank baffle according to claim 2, wherein: The first hinge end of each upper wing includes at least one upper wing notch forming an opening configured to allow air and water to pass through the first baffle layer.

6. The layered water tank baffle according to claim 1, wherein: The second baffle layer includes an annular ring attached to the outer edge, and each of the lower fins is attached to the annular ring.

7. The layered water tank baffle according to claim 6, wherein: The outer rim includes an inner annular groove, and the annular ring is attached to the outer rim by the annular ring being received within the inner annular groove.

8. The layered water tank baffle according to claim 6, wherein: The outer rim includes at least one locating slot and the annular ring includes at least one locating tab and the at least one locating slot receives the at least one locating tab when the annular ring is received within the inner annular groove at a proper rotational position.

9. The layered water tank baffle according to claim 6, wherein: Each lower fin includes a second hinge end and a second radially inward end, the second hinge end being attached to the annular ring by a second hinge, wherein each lower fin extends radially inwardly toward the central axis from the second hinge to the second radially inward end.

10. The layered water tank baffle according to claim 9, wherein: The width of the second hinge end of each lower wing is greater than the width of the second radially inward end of the lower wing.

11. The layered water tank baffle according to claim 9, wherein: The second hinge end of each lower wing includes at least one lower wing notch forming an opening configured to allow air and water to pass through the first baffle layer.

12. A food waste disposer system comprising: Food waste disposers; as well as a mounting assembly configured to attach the food waste disposer to a sink, the mounting assembly comprising a layered sink baffle, a sink flange, and an upper mounting flange; wherein the sink flange is configured to be attached to the sink, and the upper mounting flange is configured to couple the food waste disposer to the sink flange; and Wherein, the layered water tank baffle comprises: an outer edge extending circumferentially about the central axis; a first baffle layer comprising a plurality of upper fins and a plurality of gaps between the upper fins, wherein the plurality of upper fins are attached to the outer edge and are spaced apart from one another such that one of the gaps is located between each set of two upper fins; and A second baffle layer is attached to the outer edge below the first baffle layer, the second baffle layer including a plurality of lower fins, wherein the plurality of lower fins are circumferentially offset from the plurality of upper fins such that a portion of each lower fin is directly below at least one of the plurality of gaps between the upper fins.

13. The food waste disposer system of claim 12, wherein: Each upper winglet includes a first hinge end and a first radially inward end, wherein the first hinge end is attached to the outer edge by a first hinge, wherein each upper winglet extends radially inwardly toward the central axis from the first hinge to the first radially inward end.

14. The food waste disposer system of claim 12, wherein: The first hinge end of each upper wing includes at least one upper wing notch forming an opening configured to allow air and water to pass through the first baffle layer.

15. The food waste disposer system of claim 12, wherein: The second baffle layer includes an annular ring attached to the outer edge, and each of the lower fins is attached to the annular ring.

16. The food waste disposer system of claim 12, wherein: Each lower fin includes a second hinge end and a second radially inward end, the second hinge end being attached to the annular ring by a second hinge, wherein each lower fin extends radially inward from the second hinge toward the central axis to the second radially inward end; and Wherein the second hinge end of each lower wing comprises at least one lower wing notch, the at least one lower wing notch forming an opening configured to allow air and water to pass through the first baffle layer.

17. A method for manufacturing a layered water tank baffle, the method comprising: forming an outer edge and a first baffle layer; forming a second baffle layer; as well as The second baffle layer is attached to the outer edge.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein: Forming the outer rim and the first baffle layer includes integrally molding the outer rim and the first baffle layer.

19. The method according to claim 17, wherein: Forming the second baffle layer includes molding the second baffle layer.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein: The outer edge includes at least one locating slot; The second baffle layer includes an annular ring, and the annular ring includes at least one locating tab; and Attaching the second baffle layer to the outer rim includes aligning the at least one locating tab on the annular ring with the at least one locating slot on the outer rim.

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