Air inlet valve arrangement

Abstract

Air intake valve (AAV) assemblies are provided which may include a cap, a body portion having a tail and a flange with air intake openings, a flexible washer which may act as a seal against fluid flow, and a pressure seal for insertion into a pipe or fitting of a drain wastewater vent (DWV) system.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 414,237, filed October 7, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to aeration systems for use in venting drain, sewage, and vent systems. BACKGROUND

[0003] Typical piping systems provide water supply and wastewater removal. Water is piped under pressure to the fixtures, and drainpipes carry wastewater from the fixtures to the main drain, which empties into a sewer system, septic tank, or the like. Atmospheric pressure is typically maintained in the sewer system, and gases can be vented from the system through vent pipes that run through the building's roof. A drain system can be called a drain-sewer-vent system because it drains water, removes solid waste, and vents gases outside the system. Each fixture typically has a trap containing water to prevent gases from entering the building through the fixture, such as a sink or bathtub. The trap on a typical fixture is connected to a drainpipe, which might be 1.5 or 2 inches in diameter, for example.Wastewater from toilets is usually drained through a 3- or 4-inch diameter drain pipe that is connected to the main drain pipe.

[0004] At each trap on a fixture, a vent extends from the sewer system to maintain atmospheric pressure. Other fixtures are typically vented through a secondary vent or re-vent, i.e., a 1½-inch diameter pipe connected to the main vent, or through a main vent extending through the roof.

[0005] Venting a plumbing system allows fresh air to enter the system, preventing a vacuum from forming, which would draw water from the traps into the drainpipes. Therefore, plumbing systems typically have at least one main vent and preferably one at each fixture. Plumbing venting requirements are typically specified in plumbing codes.

[0006] It is currently common practice in the construction and plumbing industries to use roof vent pipes to provide fresh air when negative pressure occurs in drain and sewer piping systems, for example, when a sink is emptied or a toilet is flushed. Installing vent pipes, especially secondary vents, is a time-consuming and costly process in the construction industry. Especially in home renovations, vent pipes are typically placed inside walls and run up to the main vent or through the roof. Furthermore, where wall space is limited, such as in manufactured homes, mobile homes, and other motor vehicles with drain and sewer systems, vent pipes are cumbersome and difficult to install and use.

[0007] Building codes in several countries outside the United States permit the use of vent valves to vent drain systems. Furthermore, several states in the United States permit the use of vent valves to vent drain and sewer systems. However, various codes and requirements must be met for the use of such valves.

[0008] There is therefore a need for valve assemblies that reliably vent low-pressure drain and sewage systems. DEPICTION

[0009] Air inlet valve assemblies are provided, which comprise: a cap (2) which has: (i) a top side (4), (ii) a subpage (6), (iii) a cap wall (8) having an upper end extending from an outer periphery of the top surface, a lower edge (10) defining a terminal end of the cap wall, an inner radial surface (12) and an outer radial surface (14), and (iv) a grid (16) having grid struts (18), grid openings (19) defining voids between the grid struts, an upper edge (20) extending from the underside (6) of the cap, a lower edge (22) spaced from the upper edge, and a grid wall (24) extending between the upper edge (20) and the lower edge (22), the grid (16) extending around the underside of the cap concentrically with the cap wall; a body portion (24) comprising: (i) an end piece (25) having a lower end (26), an upper end (28) and a middle portion extending between the lower end and the upper end, the end piece having a diameter sized for insertion into a pipe or fitting of a drain, sewage and venting system, and (ii) a flange (30) extending radially from the upper end of the end piece, the flange having an upper surface, a lower surface, an edge (31) extending between the upper surface and the lower surface, a cap seat (32) positioned on an outer periphery of the upper surface adjacent the edge for sealingly engaging the lower edge (10) of the cap wall (8), and an air inlet having air intake ribs (34), air intake openings (36) extending through the flange from the lower surface to the upper surface and being defined as voids between air intake ribs, at least some of the air intake ribs (34) having valve seat elements (38) on the upper surface of the flange; and a flexible washer (40) having a lower surface, an upper surface, an outer concentric edge extending between the upper and lower surfaces, and an inner concentric edge defining a central cavity and extending between the upper and lower surfaces, wherein, when a pressure inside the end piece is not less than an ambient pressure outside the air inlet valve assembly, the flexible washer sits on the upper surface of the flange so that the lower surface of the flexible washer contacts the valve seat elements and thereby prevents fluid communication between the interior of the end piece and the environment outside the air inlet valve assembly via the air intake openings of the flange, and wherein, when a pressure inside the end piece is less than an ambient pressure outside the air inlet valve assembly, the flexible washer is lifted in a direction guided by contact of the outer concentric edge with the inner radial surface of the cap wall, guided by contact of the inner concentric edge with the grid wall, or both, thereby enabling fluid communication between the interior of the end piece and the environment outside the air inlet valve assembly via the air intake openings of the flange.

[0010] Also disclosed here are air inlet valve arrangements which comprise: a cap that has: (i) a top, (ii) a subpage, and (iii) a cap wall having an upper end extending from an outer periphery of the top surface, a lower edge defining a terminal end of the cap wall, an inner radial surface and an outer radial surface, a body part that has: (i) a terminal having a lower end, an upper end and a central portion extending between the lower end and the upper end, the terminal having a diameter sized for insertion into a pipe or fitting of a drain, sewage and venting system, and (ii) a flange extending radially from the upper end of the end piece, the flange having an upper surface, a lower surface, an edge extending between the upper surface and the lower surface, a cap seat positioned on an outer periphery of the upper surface adjacent the edge for sealingly engaging the lower edge of the cap wall, and an air inlet having air intake ribs, air intake openings extending through the flange from the lower surface to the upper surface and being defined as voids between the air intake ribs, at least some of the air intake ribs having valve seat elements on the upper surface of the flange; a flexible washer having a lower surface, an upper surface, an outer concentric edge extending between the upper and lower surfaces, and an inner concentric edge defining a central cavity and extending between the upper and lower surfaces, and a pressure seal mounted at the lower end of the end piece and comprising: (i) a first set of sealing ribs positioned on a distal portion of the pressure seal, each of the first set of sealing ribs projecting radially from the end fitting to define a first sealing diameter that ensures a fluid seal between the first set of sealing ribs and an inner surface of a pipe or fitting of a drain, sewage and vent system having a first inner diameter when the end fitting is inserted therein; (ii) a second set of sealing ribs positioned on a proximal portion of the pressure seal, each of the second set of sealing ribs extending radially from the end piece to define a second sealing diameter that is greater than the first sealing diameter and ensuring a fluid seal between the second set of sealing ribs and an inner surface of a pipe or fitting of a drain, sewage, and venting system having a second inner diameter that is greater than the first inner diameter when the end piece is inserted therein, wherein, when a pressure inside the end piece is not less than an ambient pressure outside the air inlet valve assembly, the flexible washer sits on the upper surface of the flange so that the lower surface of the flexible washer contacts the valve seat elements and thereby prevents fluid communication between the interior of the end piece and the environment outside the air inlet valve assembly via the air intake openings of the flange, and wherein, when a pressure inside the end piece is less than an ambient pressure outside the air inlet valve assembly, the flexible washer is lifted in a direction guided by the contact of the outer concentric edge with the inner radial surface of the cap wall, guided by the contact of the inner concentric edge with the grid wall, or both, thereby enabling fluid communication between the interior of the end piece and the environment outside the air inlet valve assembly via the air intake openings of the flange.

[0011] Further disclosed herein are air inlet valve assemblies comprising: a cap that has: (i) a top, (ii) a subpage, and (iii) a cap wall having an upper end extending from an outer periphery of the top surface, a lower edge defining a terminal end of the cap wall, an inner radial surface, and an outer radial surface, a body part which has: (i) a terminal having a lower end, an upper end and a central portion extending between the lower end and the upper end, the terminal having a diameter sized for insertion into a pipe or fitting of a drain, sewage and venting system, and (ii) a flange extending radially from the upper end of the end piece, the flange having an upper surface, a lower surface, an edge extending between the upper surface and the lower surface, a cap seat positioned on an outer periphery of the upper surface adjacent the edge for sealingly engaging the lower edge of the cap wall, and an air inlet having air intake ribs, air intake openings extending through the flange from the lower surface to the upper surface and being defined as voids between the air intake ribs, at least some of the air intake ribs having valve seat elements on the upper surface of the flange, and a flexible washer having a lower surface, an upper surface, an outer concentric edge extending between the upper and lower surfaces, and an inner concentric edge defining a central cavity and extending between the upper and lower surfaces, wherein, when a pressure inside the end piece is not less than an ambient pressure outside the air inlet valve assembly, the flexible washer sits on the upper surface of the flange so that the lower surface of the flexible washer contacts the valve seat elements and thereby prevents fluid communication between the interior of the end piece and the environment outside the air inlet valve assembly via the air intake openings of the flange, wherein, when a pressure inside the end piece is less than an ambient pressure outside the air inlet valve assembly, the flexible washer is lifted in a direction guided by the contact of the outer concentric edge with the inner radial surface of the cap wall, guided by the contact of the inner concentric edge with the grid wall, or both, thereby enabling fluid communication between the interior of the end piece and the environment outside the air inlet valve assembly via the air intake openings of the flange, and where the total area of the air intake openings of the flange is equal to or greater than the cross-sectional area of the end piece. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The Fig. 1A and Fig.1B provide side and cross-sectional views, respectively, of an embodiment of a fully assembled air intake valve (AAV) assembly according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 provides an exploded view of an embodiment of the assembly, showing individual components of the assembly individually. Fig. Figure 3A provides a side view of another embodiment of an AAV assembly according to the invention. Fig. Figure 3B provides a side view of a cap portion of an AAV assembly according to the invention. The Fig. 4A to 4D provide views of another embodiment of an AAV assembly according to the invention or components thereof having retaining tabs on the end piece, and Fig. 4E represents a mechanical coupling device that can be used instead of a pressure seal. The Fig.5A-5G each provide cross-sectional views of various exemplary components of pressure seals according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 6 shows exemplary AAV arrangements, with caps and pressure seals clearly visible. Fig. Figure 7 provides cross-sectional views of body sections, including exemplary inner and outer diameters. Fig. Figure 8 provides cross-sectional views of body portions, including exemplary inner and outer diameters. The Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B show cross-sectional views of the flexible washer in the close-up position and resting on the valve seat. Fig. 10 provides a cross-sectional view of a complete AAV assembly according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 11 provides a side view of a fully assembled AAV. Fig.12 provides a cross-sectional view of a complete AAV assembly according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 13 provides a side view of a fully assembled AAV. Fig. 14 provides a cross-sectional view of a complete AAV assembly according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 15 provides a side view of a fully assembled AAV. Fig. 16 provides a cross-sectional view of a complete AAV assembly according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 17 provides a side view of a fully assembled AAV. Fig. 18 provides a cross-sectional view of a complete AAV assembly according to the present disclosure, including a pressure seal having two sets of sealing ribs. Fig.Figure 19 provides a cross-sectional view of a body portion according to the present invention. Fig. Figure 20 shows an exemplary body portion according to the present invention as viewed from below so that the air intake fins and air intake openings are visible. Fig. Figure 21 shows an exemplary body portion according to the present invention in plan view, in which the air intake fins and air intake openings are also visible. Fig. 22 shows an exemplary cap with a grid. Fig. Figure 23 provides a cross-sectional view of an exemplary cap with a grid. Fig. Figure 24 provides a cross-sectional view of a cap having a grille mounted with an exemplary body portion. Fig.Figure 25 provides a cross-sectional view of an exemplary body portion having a flexible washer resting on the valve seats. Fig. Figure 26 provides a cross-sectional view of an exemplary body portion mounted with a cap and flexible washer in a partially raised position. Fig. 27 shows an example body section. The Fig. 28A-28C provide exploded views of the cap, grille, flexible washer, body portion, and pressure seal components, respectively, of exemplary AAV assemblies according to the present invention. Fig. Figure 29 provides an exploded view of the cap, grille, flexible washer, body portion, and pressure seal components of an exemplary AAV assembly according to the present invention. Fig.Figure 30 provides a cross-sectional view of an exemplary compression seal having two sets of sealing ribs and an annular groove for receiving the lower end of an end piece. Fig. 31 shows an exemplary pressure seal with two sets of sealing ribs and one pipe sealing rib. Fig. 32 shows an exemplary pressure seal with two sets of sealing ribs and one pipe sealing rib. Fig. 33 provides an exploded bottom view of the cap and grille, flexible washer, body portion, and pressure seal components of an exemplary AAV assembly according to the present invention. Fig. 34 provides a cross-sectional view of an exemplary AAV assembly according to the present invention installed at the top end of a tube having an inner diameter into which a first set of sealing ribs of the AAV assembly fits to form a seal. Fig. Figure 35 provides a side view of an exemplary AAV assembly installed at the top end of a 100 mm diameter AU pipe into which a first set of sealing ribs of the AAV assembly fits to form a seal. Fig. 36 provides a cross-sectional view of an exemplary AAV assembly according to the present invention installed at the top end of a tube having an inner diameter into which a first set of sealing ribs of the AAV assembly fits to form a seal. Fig. Figure 37 provides a side view of an exemplary AAV assembly mounted on the top end of a 100 mm diameter TW pipe into which a first set of sealing ribs of the AAV assembly fits to form a seal. Fig.38 provides a cross-sectional view of an exemplary AAV assembly according to the invention installed at the top end of a pipe having an inner diameter into which a second set of sealing ribs of the AAV assembly fits to form a seal and over which a pipe sealing rib extends. Fig. Figure 39 provides a side view of an exemplary AAV assembly according to the invention installed at the top end of a 120 mm TW pipe into which a second set of sealing ribs of the AAV assembly fits to form a seal and over whose top edge a pipe sealing rib extends. Fig. Figure 40 provides a cross-sectional view of an exemplary AAV assembly according to the present invention installed at the top of a pipe. Fig.Figure 41 provides a side view of an exemplary AAV assembly according to the invention installed at the top end of an 80 mm TW pipe. Fig. Figure 42 provides a cross-sectional view of an exemplary AAV assembly according to the present invention installed at the top of a pipe. Fig. Figure 43 provides a side view of an exemplary AAV assembly according to the invention installed at the top end of an 80 mm AU tube. Fig. Figure 44 provides a side view of an exemplary AAV assembly according to the present invention in which the pressure seal includes two sets of sealing ribs and a tube sealing rib. Fig. 45 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary body portion of an AAV assembly according to the invention. Fig.46 shows an exemplary body portion according to the present invention as viewed from below so that the air intake fins and the air intake openings are visible. The Fig. 47A-47C provide various views of exemplary body portions according to the present disclosure, each including a mesh seat. Fig. 48 is a cross-sectional view of a cap according to the invention with a grid and a flexible washer in the rest position (lowered position). Fig. Figure 49 provides a perspective sectional view of a cap according to the invention with a grid and a flexible washer in the rest position (lowered position). Fig.50 provides a cross-sectional view of an exemplary cap having a grid, a body portion, and a flexible washer positioned on the valve seat members, i.e., in the rest position. Fig. Figure 51 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a body portion according to the invention with a flexible washer positioned on the valve seat elements of the body portion. Fig. 52 provides a cross-sectional view of an exemplary cap having a grid, a body portion, and a flexible washer in a partially raised position. Fig. 53 provides a perspective view of an exemplary body portion according to the present invention. Fig.54 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary compression seal having two sets of sealing ribs, a tube sealing rib, and an annular groove for receiving the lower end of an end piece of a body portion. Fig. 55 is a perspective view of an exemplary pressure seal having two sets of sealing ribs, one tube sealing rib. The Fig. 56A and Fig. 56B provide a perspective view and a cross-sectional view, respectively, of a grille having a lip at its lower end. Fig. Figure 57A illustrates the assembly of a flexible washer with a rigid support ring, and Fig. Figure 57B provides a perspective cutaway view of an AAV assembly according to the present invention in which the flexible washer and support ring are installed. Fig.58A illustrates a perspective cutaway view of the flexible washer assembly with support rings adjacent the inner peripheral edge and the outer peripheral edge of the flexible washer, and Fig. Figure 58B provides a perspective cutaway view of an AAV assembly according to the present invention in which the flexible washer and support rings are installed. The Fig. 59A-59D illustrate embodiments of an exemplary end fitting having external threads that may be used to attach the lower end of the end fitting to a faucet connector or to a solvent weld adapter, which in turn may be attached to a pipe or fitting of a DWV system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

[0012] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the invention are illustrated. Indeed, the present invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will comply with applicable legal requirements.

[0013] When values are expressed as approximate values, the use of the prefix "approximately" is to be understood as representing a different embodiment. When using the word "approximately X" (where X is a numerical value), reference is preferably made to ± 10% of the stated value. For example, the term "about 8" preferably refers to a value from 7.2 to 8.8 inclusive; as a further example, the term "about 8%" preferably refers to a value from 7.2% to 8.8% inclusive. Where present, all ranges are inclusive and combinable. For example, where a range of "1 to 5" is stated, the stated range should be construed to optionally include the ranges "1 to 4", "1 to 3", "1-2", "1-2 & 4-5", "1-3 & 5", and the like.When a list of alternatives is positively provided, such a list may also include embodiments where one of the alternatives can be excluded. For example, when describing a range of "1 to 5," such a description may include situations where one of the alternatives 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 is excluded; thus, a list of "1 to 5" may also support "1 and 3-5, but not 2" or simply "not including 2." The phrase "at least about x" is intended to include both "about x" and "at least x." Further, it should be noted that when a parameter range is provided, all integers within that range, and tenths thereof, are also provided by the invention. For example, "2-5 hours" includes 2 hours, 2.1 hours, 2.2 hours, 2.3 hours, etc., up to 5 hours.

[0014] Fig. 1A shows a side exterior view, Fig.1B shows a side cross-sectional view, and Fig. Figure 1C shows an exploded view of an air intake valve (AAV) assembly 1 according to the present disclosure. As shown, the air intake valve assembly 1 includes a cap 2, a body portion 24, a flexible washer 40 that functions as a valve, and a compression seal 42. The body portion 24 includes an end piece 25 and a flange 30 extending radially from the top surface of the end piece. These basic components of the AAV assembly 1 are arranged as follows. The flexible washer 40 is attached to the top surface of the flange 30, and the cap 2 fits onto the top surface of the flange 30. The compression seal 42 has an annular central opening through which the end piece 25 is inserted. Fig. Figure 1C shows the cap 2, the flexible washer 40, the body portion 24 and the pressure seal 42 prior to assembly, and the Fig.1A and Fig. 1B shows these components in their assembled configuration.

[0015] The cap 2 has a top surface 4 and a bottom surface 6. The cap 2 further includes a cap wall 8 having an upper end extending from an outer periphery of the top surface, a lower edge 10 defining a terminal end of the cap wall, an inner radial surface 12, and an outer radial surface 14. The cap is preferably sized such that its outer diameter is substantially the same as that of the flange 30 of the body portion 24. The horizontal cross-sectional shape of the cap 2 is preferably circular and in any event designed to conform to the shape of the flange 30. When seated on the flange 30, the lower edge 10 of the cap 2 forms a fluid seal, substantially preventing air from entering or exiting between the lower edge 10 and the upper surface of the flange 30.As described in more detail herein, the airflow into or out of the interior of the body portion 24 is generally limited by the configuration of the AAV assembly 1 to predetermined portions of the device.

[0016] The cap 2 or a component thereof (for example the grid 16) may be formed from any rigid material, for example from a thermoplastic polymer comprising, for example, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinyl acetate (PVA) or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS).

[0017] The cap 2 includes a screen 16 which, in the assembled form of the AAV assembly 1, extends from the underside 6 of the cap to a point where it contacts the cap seat 32 of the flange 30. The screen 16 includes struts 18 and openings 19, the latter representing voids between the struts 18. The screen 16 can act as a barrier to insect entry from the drain, waste, and vent (DWV) system and from the AAV assembly 1, and accordingly, the individual openings 19 are preferably sized to be too small to allow passage of insect species most likely to attempt to exit a DWV system.

[0018] In some embodiments, the grid 16 is formed in one piece or integrally with the underside 6 of the cap 2. This may mean that the grid 16 is formed in one piece with the underside 6 of the cap 2, or that the grid 16 securely snaps into recesses or onto ridges on the underside 6 of the cap 2. In other embodiments, the grid 16 merely rests against the underside 6 of the cap 2. The Fig. 28A-28C illustrate embodiments in which the grid 16 is not integral with the cap 2. When the present disclosure refers to the cap having a grid, this means that the grid and the cap are provided as separate components (e.g., manufactured as separate components), but can be physically joined together in the assembled state of the AAV assembly. As in Fig.As shown in Figure 3A, the underside 6 of the cap 2 may include an annular ridge 52 concentric with the upper edge 20 of the grid 16 and sized such that the grid 16 fits tightly around the ridge 52. In this way, the ridge 52 ensures that the grid 16 is correctly centered on the underside 6 of the cap 2. Fig. Figure 3B provides another view of the cap 2 with a ridge 52.

[0019] In some embodiments, the grid 16 includes a lip 17 extending from the portion of the grid 16 having struts 18 and openings 19, the lip 17 defining a portion of the grid 16 that abuts the upper surface of the flange 30 when the AAV assembly 1 is in the assembled state. Fig. 56A and Fig.56B provide perspective and cross-sectional views of the grille 16 having a lip 17. In these embodiments, the lip 17 extends circumferentially around the base of the grille 16 and has a smaller diameter than the grille 16, thereby defining a circumferential ledge 23 at the point where the lip 17 meets the portion of the grille 16 having struts 18 and openings 19. The ledge 23 is configured to bear on a portion of the upper surface of the flange 30 of the body portion 24. As described below and in Fig. 3, the body portion 24 may include a grid seat 54 against which the lower edge 22 of the grid may rest when the cap 2 and grid 30 are in the assembled configuration with the body portion 24. The grid seat 54 may also be configured such that the ledge 23 rests on the grid seat 54. Fig.47A-47C illustrate embodiments of the body portion 24 having a grid seat 54 against which the bar 23 may rest when the AAV assembly 1 is in the assembled state. Fig. 57B also shows how the bar 23 rests on the grid seat 54.

[0020] In certain embodiments, one or more vertically aligned grid ribs 21 may be circumferentially disposed around the outer surface of the grid 16. The grid ribs 21 may provide a clearance between the outer surface of the grid 16 and the inner concentric edge of the flexible washer 40 when the AAV assembly 1 is in the assembled state. The clearance between the outer surface of the grid 16 and the inner concentric edge of the flexible washer 40 may be useful in preventing the flexible washer 40 from catching on the outer surface of the grid 16 or becoming misaligned when the flexible washer 40 moves from the seating position on the upper surface of the flange 30 to the raised position, or when the flexible washer 40 moves from the raised position back to the seating position on the upper surface of the flange 30. Fig.56A illustrates an embodiment in which the grid 16 includes grid ribs 21. When stated in the present disclosure that the flexible washer 40 is raised or lowered in a direction guided by the contact of the inner concentric edge of the flexible washer 40 with the grid wall, the term "grid wall" may refer to the outer surface of the grid wall without ribs or to the portion of the grid wall that forms the grid ribs 21. In other words, when grid ribs 21 are provided on the grid 16, the "grid wall" that can guide the raising or lowering of the flexible washer 40 may be one or more of the grid ribs themselves.

[0021] The body portion 24 has an end piece 25 and a flange 30. As described above, the lower edge 10 of the cap 2 abuts an outer periphery of the upper surface of the flange 30 and forms a seal with the cap seat 32. The cap seat 32 of the flange 30 can be seen in the exploded view of the AAV assembly 1 shown in Fig. 2 is provided.

[0022] Radially inward of the cap seat 32 on the flange 30 is an air inlet comprising air intake ribs 34 that define air intake openings 36. The air intake openings 36 extend through the flange from its upper surface to its lower surface. The configuration, i.e., the shape and size, of the air intake openings 36 and the air intake ribs 34 are not critical as long as the openings allow sufficient airflow through them when the pressure inside the end piece 25 is less than the ambient pressure outside the AAV assembly 1 (in this case, the flexible washer is raised so that it does not contact the air intake ribs 34). However, in some embodiments, the total area of the air intake openings 36 is equal to or greater than the cross-sectional area of the end piece.

[0023] On the upper surface of the flange 30, the air intake ribs 34 may have valve seat elements 38 against which the flexible washer 40 rests when the pressure inside the end piece 25 is not less than the ambient pressure outside the AAV assembly 1. As in Fig. 1B and Fig. 3, the valve seat elements 38 may, for example, include a taper to limit the contact area between the air intake ribs 34 and the flexible washer 40. Although the contact between the air intake ribs 34 and the flexible washer 40 may be limited by the configuration of the valve seat elements 38, the contact is still sufficient for the flexible washer 40 to provide a fluid seal in the rest position to prevent airflow through the air intake openings 36.

[0024] As in Fig.3, the body portion 24 may include a mesh seat 54 at the junction between the end piece 25 and the flange 30 (which constitutes the upper end 28 of the end piece 25) against which the lower edge 22 of the mesh may abut when the cap 2 and mesh 30 are in the assembled configuration with the body portion 24. The mesh seat 54 extends over the entire upper surface of the upper end 28 and thus assists in positioning the mesh 16 on the body portion 24.

[0025] The flexible washer 40, which is in Fig.2 is shown in isolation, has an outer diameter substantially the same as the inner diameter of the cap 2 (i.e., the distance between an inner radial surface 12 of the cap 2 and a directly opposite inner radial surface of the cap 2), and defines a central cavity substantially the same as the outer diameter of the grid 16. Thus, in use, movement of the flexible washer 40 within the AAV assembly 1 is guided by the contact of the outer concentric edge of the flexible washer 40 with the inner radial surface of the cap wall, by the contact of the inner concentric edge of the flexible washer 40 with the outer surface of the grid wall 24, or both.

[0026] In some embodiments, the underside 6 of the cap 2 may include protrusions 56 to reduce the surface area of contact between the upper surface of the flexible washer 40 and the underside 6 of the cap 2. The presence of protrusions may prevent the flexible washer 40 from adhering to the underside 6 of the cap 2 when the flexible washer is in the open position (i.e., when the flexible washer is raised and no longer in contact with the air intake ribs 34 because the pressure inside the end piece is less than the ambient pressure outside the AAV assembly 1). The protrusions 56 may take any configuration effective to reduce the surface area of contact between the upper surface of the flexible washer 40 and the underside 6 of the cap 2. In one embodiment, Fig.3 in cross-section, the projections 56 have the shape of an annular ridge which is concentric with the cap wall 8.

[0027] The flexible washer 40 may be formed from any flexible or semi-rigid material capable of forming a seal with the air intake ribs 34 when the flexible washer 40 is in the rest position. Suitable materials include, for example, natural or synthetic rubber, silicone, neoprene, or any combination thereof. An exemplary synthetic rubber that may be used for the flexible washer is ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM).

[0028] In some embodiments, the flexible washer 40 may include a support ring 41 that may be removably or permanently attached to the inner peripheral edge of the flexible washer 40. As shown in the Fig. 57A and Fig.58B, the support ring 41 may, for example, be secured to the flexible washer 40 by accommodating the inner edge of the perimeter within a channel 43 of the support ring 41. The support ring 41 is preferably formed from a substantially rigid material (e.g., plastic) that provides rigidity and provides a rigid element of the flexible washer 40. Suitable materials for fabricating the support ring 41 include polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinyl acetate (PVA), or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or a combination thereof. The support ring 41 may contribute to the ability of the flexible washer 40 to avoid deviation from a single spatial plane and to maintain a uniform shape during raising and lowering due to pressure changes within the system, which in turn can ensure that the flexible washer 40 functions correctly as a seal.

[0029] The upper surface of the flexible washer 40 may optionally have one or more upwardly extending and circumferentially arranged ribs 45. Fig. 58B illustrates a flexible washer 40 having two upwardly extending and circumferentially arranged ribs 45. The ribs 45 may be formed integrally with the flexible washer 40 or formed separately from the flexible washer 40 and fixedly attached to the flexible washer 40 during assembly. The ribs 45 may prevent the flexible washer 40 from sticking to the underside 6 of the cap 2 when the flexible washer 40 is in the raised position by creating a space between the upper surface of the flexible washer 40 and the underside 6 of the cap 2.

[0030] In certain other embodiments, the flexible washer 40 may include one or more substantially rigid support rings 47 attached to the upper surface of the flexible washer 40 to provide rigidity and provide a rigid element of the flexible washer 40. The support rings 47 may help the flexible washer 40 avoid deviation from a single spatial plane and maintain a uniform shape when raised and lowered due to pressure changes within the system, which in turn may ensure that the flexible washer 40 functions properly as a seal.The support rings may also prevent the flexible washer 40 from adhering to the underside 6 of the cap 2 when the flexible washer 40 is in the raised position by creating a space between the upper surface of the flexible washer 40 and the underside 6 of the cap 2. The support rings 47 may have a substantially flat vertical profile, as shown in FIG. Fig. 58A, which shows cross-sectional views of the flexible washer 40 and the support rings 47, and in Fig.58B, which illustrates a cross-sectional view of the flexible washer 40 and the support rings 47 positioned within the space defined by the cap 2 and the body portion 24 in one embodiment of the inventive AAV system 1. Suitable materials for fabricating the support rings 47 include polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinyl acetate (PVA), or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or a combination thereof.

[0031] The end piece 25 extends downward from the flange 30 from an upper end 28 to a lower end 26. The distance between the upper end 28 and the lower end 26 may be approximately 30 to approximately 60 mm, such as approximately 35 to 55 mm, or approximately 40 to 50 mm (including, for example, approximately 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or 50 mm), or more generally, a length sufficient to allow the insertion of a portion of the end piece into a pipe or fitting of a drainage system. The outer diameter of the end piece 25 may vary depending on the size of the pipe or fitting of a drainage system into which the end piece is to be inserted. For example, the outer diameter of the end piece can be between 30 and 150 mm, such as approximately 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 105, 110, 115, 120, 125, 130, 135, 140, 145 or 150 mm.The inner diameter of the end piece can also vary and be between approximately 25 and 140 mm, for example, approximately 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 105, 110, 115, 120, 125, 130, 135, or 140 mm. Table 1 below provides exemplary inner diameters and corresponding outer diameters for specific embodiments. Table 1 Embodiment Inner diameter (mm) Outer diameter (mm) 32 mm AU DWV pipe 30,0 36,3 40 mm AU DWV connector 43,1 47,3 50 mm AU DWV connector 56,0 60,4 80 mm AU DWV pipe 73,0 82,3 100 mm AU DWV pipe 98,0 110,0 40 mm TW DWV connector 48,7 57,7 50 mm TW DWV connector 60,8 70,6 80 mm TW DWV pipe 83,0 89,0 100 mm TW DWV pipe 107,0 114,0 125 mm TW DWV pipe 131,0 140,0

[0032] The end piece 25 may further comprise one or more retaining tabs 58 that project radially from the outer surface of the end piece 25. The Fig. 4A to 4D illustrate embodiments with retaining tabs 58 extending from a lower surface of the flange 30 along a portion of the length of the end piece 25. As shown in the Fig. 4C and Fig.4D, the retaining tabs 58 can prevent the top of the compression seal from interfering with the lower surface of the flange 30, i.e., from blocking the air intake openings 36 on the lower surface of the flange 30, when the compression seal 42 is mounted on the lower end 26 of the end piece 25. In other words, the retaining tabs 58 provide a stop along the length of the end piece 25 beyond which the compression seal 42 cannot move. The number of retaining tabs 58 that can be provided on the outer surface of the end piece 25 can be one, two, three, four, five, or more. With two or more retaining tabs, the individual retaining tabs are preferably evenly spaced from one another, although they can also be unevenly spaced. With three retaining tabs, for example, they are preferably spaced 120° apart around the outer surface of the end piece 25.For users who prefer not to use a plug-in seal of the type provided by the pressure seal 42, a mechanical coupling device such as that shown in . Fig. 4E may be used to couple the end piece 24 to a pipe or fitting of a DWV system, and the retaining tabs 58 may provide a stop along the length of the end piece 25 beyond which the mechanical coupling means cannot move to prevent an upper end of the mechanical coupling means from interfering with the lower surface of the flange 30, i.e., blocking the air intake openings 36 on the lower surface of the flange 30.

[0033] As in the Fig. 59A-59D, the end piece 25 may have an external thread 64. Fig. 59A shows a body portion 24 with an end piece 25 with external thread 64. Fig.59B shows a body portion 24 mounted with a cap 2, wherein the end piece 25 of the body portion 24 has an external thread 64. The threads 64 can be used to attach the lower end of the end piece 25 to a tap connector 66, as in Fig. 59C, or to a solvent welding adapter 68, which in turn can be attached to a pipe 70 or a fitting of a DWV system, as shown in Fig. 59D. In general, embodiments of the fitting 25 having an external thread 64 are intended for users who prefer not to use a push-in seal of the type provided by the pressure seal 42. However, threaded end fittings may also be used using a push-in seal, such as the push-in seal 42.

[0034] The pressure seal 42 forms an inner channel with a circular cross-section into which the end piece 25 is inserted during assembly of the AAV assembly 1. The inwardly facing surface of the inner channel forms a seal against the outer surface of the end piece 25 when the latter is inserted into the inner channel. As shown in Fig. 5A-5D, the inner channel may include one or more ribs 60 that may provide sealing against the outer surface of the end piece 25.

[0035] At least one set of sealing ribs projects radially from the outer surface of the pressure seal 42 (effectively from the end piece 25). Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B, only a single set of sealing ribs 44a, 44b, 44c is present. In the embodiments shown in Fig. 5C and Fig.5D, a first set of sealing ribs 44a, 44b, 44c is provided, which additionally comprises a second set of sealing ribs 46a, 46b, 46c. The number of sealing ribs per set can be up to 10, but 2-5 are preferred. The embodiments of Fig. 5A-5C have three sealing ribs per set. If more than one set of sealing ribs is present, the respective sets may have a different number of sealing ribs. For example, in the version of Fig. 1B, the first set of sealing ribs 44a, 44b, 44c has three elements, while the second set of sealing ribs 46 has two elements.

[0036] If more than one set of sealing ribs is present, each set of sealing ribs projects radially from the outer surface of the pressure seal 42 at a distance that is different from the distance at which another set of sealing ribs projects. In particular, if more than one set of sealing ribs is present, the set of sealing ribs located near the lower end of the pressure seal 42 projects radially outward a first distance, and the set of sealing ribs located farther from the lower end of the pressure seal 42 projects radially outward a second distance that is greater than the first distance. The purpose of equipping the pressure seal with respective sets of sealing ribs is to enable the use of the pressure seal with at least two different sizes of pipes or fittings of a DWV system, i.e.to enable the pressure seal to form a fluid seal with a pipe or fitting of a DWV system having a first inner diameter via a first set of sealing ribs, and to enable the pressure seal to form a fluid seal with another pipe or fitting of a DWV system having a second inner diameter that is larger than the inner diameter of the other pipe or fitting via a second set of sealing ribs.

[0037] In the Fig. 5A, the pressure seal comprises, for example, sealing ribs 44a, 44b, 44c projecting radially from the pressure seal 42 to define a first sealing diameter that ensures a fluid seal with the inner surface of a pipe having an inner diameter of 40 mm. In the embodiment shown in Fig.5B, the pressure seal has sealing ribs 44a, 44b, 44c projecting radially from the pressure seal 42 to define a first sealing diameter that ensures a fluid seal with the inner surface of a pipe having an inner diameter of 50 mm.

[0038] In the in the Fig. 5C and Fig. 5D, the pressure seal has sealing ribs 44a, 44b, 44c projecting radially from the pressure seal 42 to define a first sealing diameter that ensures a fluid seal with the inner surface of a pipe having an inner diameter of 40 mm, and the pressure seal 42 also has sealing ribs 46a, 46b, 46c that ensure a fluid seal with the inner surface of a pipe having an inner diameter of 50 mm.

[0039] The individual sealing ribs within a particular set need not protrude at exactly the same distance from the pressure seal 42. Rather, it may be advantageous if the individual sealing ribs within a particular set vary incrementally in length, e.g., by a small amount relative to their total length, for example, by approximately 1-4 mm, such as approximately 1, 2, 3, or 4 mm.For example, a progressive increase in the diameter of the sealing ribs from the lower element to the upper element of a given set can provide a better seal, accommodate a wider range of DWV pipe / fittings (since the inner diameter, even for a given nominal size, can vary slightly from pipe manufacturer to pipe manufacturer), and improve the user experience when pressing down the AAV unit by providing the impression of a tighter fit due to the increased interference between the respective sealing ribs and the inner surface of the DWV pipe / fitting. Accordingly, in some embodiments, at least some of the individual elements of a given set of sealing ribs can vary in length by approximately 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, or 5% relative to one another.In certain embodiments, the length of individual parts varies depending on their position in the set, for example, such that the lowest part of the set (i.e., the part closest to the bottom of the end piece and farthest from the flange of the body portion) has the shortest length and the top part of the set (furthest from the bottom of the end piece compared to the other parts of the set) has the greatest length. In some embodiments, not all members of a given set vary in length relative to one another. For example, some elements may be the same length, and those elements may differ in length from one or more other elements of the set.For example, a sealing rib set with three individual ribs includes two equal-length lower ribs and a third, upper rib whose length varies from the first two ribs in that it is 2% longer than the first two ribs. In another example, a sealing rib set with three individual rib elements includes a first, lowermost rib with a first length, a middle rib with a second length that is approximately 2% longer than the first length, and a third, upper rib with a third length that is approximately 2% longer than the second length.

[0040] Table 2 below provides exemplary seal diameters defined by the respective sets of seal ribs of certain embodiments. As shown in the table, each seal rib set includes three separate elements that vary in size relative to each other. The first listed element is the lowest element of the set (i.e., the element closest to the bottom of the end piece and farthest from the body portion flange). Table 2 Embodiment First (lower) seal diameter Second (upper) seal diameter Outer diameter of the pipe sealing rib 40 mm / 50 mm with groove 50.0 mm 51.5 mm 52.0 mm 63.0 mm 63.5 mm 64.5 mm 75 mm 40 mm / 50 mm without groove 50.0 mm 51.5 mm 52.0 mm 63.0 mm 63.5 mm 64.5 mm 75 mm 40 mm 50,0 mm 51,5 mm 52,0 mm K.A. 62,5 mm 50 mm 63,0 mm 63,5 mm 64,5 mm K.A. 75 mm 100 mm 100,0 mm 101,5 mm 102,0 mm K.A. 126 mm 125 mm 126,0 mm 127,0 mm K.A. 145 mm

[0041] The sealing ribs of the pressure seal 42 can have any desired cross-sectional shape. Fig. 5A-5D show sealing ribs 44 with one type of cross-sectional shape. Fig. 5E-5F show sealing ribs 44 with a different type of cross-sectional shape, which is wider and more rectangular than that of the sealing ribs in Fig. 5A-5D.

[0042] The pressure seal 42 may also include a pipe sealing rib 48 that projects radially from the pressure seal (effectively from the end fitting) to a radial distance greater than the inside diameter of the pipe or fitting into which the lower part of the pressure seal 42 is inserted. As shown in Fig. 1B, which shows an exemplary AAV assembly 1 inserted into a pipe of a DWV system, the pipe sealing rib 48 forms a fluid seal at the upper edge of the pipe 33b.

[0043] If more than one sealing rib set is present, a rib of the sealing rib set that is closer to the cap 2 than a first sealing rib set can serve to ensure a fluid seal at the upper edge of a pipe or fitting with which the first sealing rib set is intended to form a fluid seal at the inner surface of the pipe or fitting. For illustration purposes, Fig. 1B a first tube 33a having a first inner diameter against which the first set of sealing ribs 44a, 44b, 44c forms a fluid seal when the pressure seal 42 is inserted therein, and Fig. 1B also shows a second tube 33b having a second inner diameter (larger than the inner diameter of the first tube 33a) against which the second set of sealing ribs 46 forms a fluid seal when the pressure seal 42 is inserted therein. The lower of the two sealing ribs 46 forms a fluid seal at the upper edge of the tube 33a because the sealing ribs 46 extend from the pressure seal 42 at a radial distance greater than the inner diameter of the tube 33a.

[0044] In some embodiments, such as Fig. 5A, Fig. 5B, Fig. 5D and Fig. 5G, the pressure seal 42 has a cylindrical inner channel through which the end piece 25 can be inserted from an upper opening of the channel to the opposite lower opening of the channel. As also shown in the Fig. 5A, Fig. 5B, Fig. 5D and Fig. 5G, the inner walls of the pressure seal 42 defining the inner channel may include one or more channel ribs 63 that enhance the seal between the pressure seal 42 and the outer surface of an end fitting (not shown).

[0045] In other embodiments, as in Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 5C, the inner channel of the pressure seal 42 may include an annular groove 62 into which the distal or lower end of the end piece 25 is inserted. Such embodiments may optionally include channel ribs 63.

[0046] The pressure seal 42 may be formed from any flexible or semi-rigid material capable of forming a seal with the inside of a pipe or fitting of a DWV system when inserted therein. Suitable materials include natural or synthetic rubber, silicone, neoprene, or any combination thereof. An exemplary material from which the pressure seal 42 may be formed is ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber.

[0047] The AAV assembly 1 according to the present disclosure is configured to enable a beneficially high air flow rate from the ambient outside the end piece 25 via the air intake openings 36 of the flange 30 and through the openings 19 in the grille 16 into the interior of the AAV assembly when the flexible washer is moved to the open position so that it does not abut the air intake ribs 34 of the flange 30, that is, when an air pressure inside the end piece 25 is less than the ambient pressure outside the AAV assembly 1. The amount of air flow enabled by the currently disclosed configurations is greater than currently commercially available air inlet valve assemblies.To ensure the desired amount of airflow, in some embodiments, the AAV assembly 1 is configured such that the total area of the grille openings 19 is equal to or greater than the cross-sectional area of the end piece. In some embodiments, the AAV assembly 1 is configured such that the total area of the air intake openings 36 of the flange 30 is equal to or greater than the cross-sectional area of the end piece.

[0048] In some embodiments, the airflow into the AAV assembly 1 according to the present disclosure is greater than approximately 8 L / s when the flexible washer is moved to the open position. For example, the airflow may be approximately 8-40 L / s when the flexible washer is moved to the open position, such as approximately 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, or 40 L / s when the flexible washer is moved to the open position. The airflow may vary depending on the size of the end fitting used. For example, in an embodiment where the end piece is adapted for use with a 50 mm DWV pipe or fitting, the air flow may be approximately 8 l / s.In other embodiments where the end fitting is adapted for use with an 80 mm DWV pipe or fitting, the airflow may be closer to approximately 35 L / s. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 63 / 414,237

[0001]

Claims

[1] Air inlet valve assembly, comprising: a cap (2) which has: (i) a top side (4), (ii) a subpage (6), (iii) a cap wall (8) having an upper end extending from an outer periphery of the top surface, a lower edge (10) defining a terminal end of the cap wall, an inner radial surface (12) and an outer radial surface (14), and (iv) a grid (16) having grid struts (18), grid openings (19) defining voids between the grid struts, an upper edge (20) extending from the underside (6) of the cap, a lower edge (22) spaced from the upper edge, and a grid wall (24) extending between the upper edge (20) and the lower edge (22), the grid (16) extending around the underside of the cap concentrically with the cap wall; a body portion (24) comprising: (i) an end piece (25) having a lower end (26), an upper end (28) and a middle portion extending between the lower end and the upper end, the end piece having a diameter sized for insertion into a pipe or fitting of a drain, sewage and venting system, and (ii) a flange (30) extending radially from the upper end of the end piece, the flange having an upper surface, a lower surface, an edge (31) extending between the upper surface and the lower surface, a cap seat (32) positioned on an outer periphery of the upper surface adjacent the edge for sealingly engaging the lower edge (10) of the cap wall (8), and an air inlet having air intake ribs (34), air intake openings (36) extending through the flange from the lower surface to the upper surface and being defined as voids between air intake ribs, at least some of the air intake ribs (34) having valve seat elements (38) on the upper surface of the flange; and, a flexible washer (40) having a lower surface, an upper surface, an outer concentric edge extending between the upper and lower surfaces, and an inner concentric edge defining a central cavity and extending between the upper and lower surfaces, wherein, when a pressure inside the end piece is not less than an ambient pressure outside the air inlet valve assembly, the flexible washer sits on the upper surface of the flange so that the lower surface of the flexible washer contacts the valve seat elements and thereby prevents fluid communication between the interior of the end piece and the environment outside the air inlet valve assembly via the air intake openings of the flange, and wherein, when a pressure inside the end piece is less than an ambient pressure outside the air inlet valve assembly, the flexible washer is lifted in a direction guided by the contact of the outer concentric edge with the inner radial surface of the cap wall, guided by the contact of the inner concentric edge with the grid wall, or both, thereby enabling fluid communication between the interior of the end piece and the environment outside the air inlet valve assembly via the air intake openings of the flange. [2] An air inlet valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein fluid communication between the interior of the end piece and the environment also occurs via the grille openings of the grille. [3] An air inlet valve assembly according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the total area of the grille openings is equal to or greater than the cross-sectional area of the end piece. [4] An air inlet valve assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the total area of the air intake openings of the flange is equal to or greater than the cross-sectional area of the end piece. [5] An air intake valve assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the air intake ribs comprise inner, middle and outer air intake ribs each concentrically arranged around the flange. [6] An air intake valve assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein at least some of the valve seat elements of the air intake ribs have a taper location to limit a contact area between the air intake ribs and the flexible washer. [7] An air inlet valve assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the upper edge of the grille is integral with the underside of the cap. [8] An air inlet valve assembly according to any preceding claim, further comprising a pressure seal (42) mounted on the lower end (26) of the end piece (25) and comprising: (i) a first set of sealing ribs (44a, 44b, 44c) positioned on a distal portion of the pressure seal (42), each of the first set of sealing ribs projecting radially from the end piece to define a first sealing diameter that ensures a fluid seal between the first set of sealing ribs and an inner surface of a pipe or fitting of a drain, sewage and venting system having a first inner diameter when the end piece is inserted therein, (ii) a second set of sealing ribs (46) positioned on a proximal portion of the compression seal, each of the second set of sealing ribs projecting radially from the end fitting to define a second sealing diameter greater than the first sealing diameter and ensuring a fluid seal between the second set of sealing ribs and an inner surface of a pipe or fitting of a drain, sewage and vent system having a second inner diameter greater than the first inner diameter when the end fitting is inserted therein. [9] The air inlet valve assembly of claim 8, further comprising a pipe sealing rib (48) extending radially from the end fitting to define a third sealing diameter that is greater than the second sealing diameter and ensures a fluid seal at an upper edge of the pipe or fitting of a drain, sewer and vent system having a second inner diameter. [10] The air inlet valve assembly of claim 8, wherein a rib (44c) of the second set of sealing ribs ensures a fluid seal against an upper edge of the pipe or fitting of a drain, sewer and vent system having a first inner diameter. [11] An air inlet valve assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the flexible washer (40) further comprises a support ring (41) removably secured to the inner peripheral edge of the flexible washer. [12] An air inlet valve assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the flexible washer (40) further comprises one or more substantially rigid support rings (47) on the upper surface of the flexible washer. [13] Air inlet valve assembly, comprising: a cap which has: (i) a top, (ii) a subpage, and (iii) a cap wall having an upper end extending from an outer periphery of the top surface, a lower edge defining a terminal end of the cap wall, an inner radial surface, and an outer radial surface, a body part which has: (i) a terminal having a lower end, an upper end and a central portion extending between the lower end and the upper end, the terminal having a diameter sized for insertion into a pipe or fitting of a drain, sewage and venting system, and (ii) a flange extending radially from the upper end of the end piece, the flange having an upper surface, a lower surface, an edge extending between the upper surface and the lower surface, a cap seat positioned on an outer periphery of the upper surface adjacent the edge for sealingly engaging the lower edge of the cap wall, and an air inlet having air intake ribs, air intake openings extending through the flange from the lower surface to the upper surface and being defined as voids, at least some of the air intake ribs having valve seat elements on the upper surface of the flange; a flexible washer having a lower surface, an upper surface, an outer concentric edge extending between the upper and lower surfaces, and an inner concentric edge defining a central cavity and extending between the upper and lower surfaces, and a pressure seal mounted at the lower end of the end piece and comprising: (i) a first set of sealing ribs positioned on a distal portion of the pressure seal, each of the first set of sealing ribs projecting radially from the end fitting to define a first sealing diameter that ensures a fluid seal between the first set of sealing ribs and an inner surface of a pipe or fitting of a drain, sewage and vent system having a first inner diameter when the end fitting is inserted therein; (ii) a second set of sealing ribs positioned on a proximal portion of the pressure seal, each of the second set of sealing ribs projecting radially from the end piece to define a second sealing diameter that is greater than the first sealing diameter and ensuring a fluid seal of the second set of sealing ribs and an inner surface of a pipe or fitting of a drain, sewage, and venting system having a second inner diameter that is greater than the first inner diameter when the end piece is inserted therein, wherein, when a pressure inside the end piece is not less than an ambient pressure outside the air inlet valve assembly, the flexible washer sits on the upper surface of the flange so that the lower surface of the flexible washer contacts the valve seat elements and thereby prevents fluid communication between the interior of the end piece and the environment outside the air inlet valve assembly via the air intake openings of the flange, and wherein, when a pressure inside the end piece is less than an ambient pressure outside the air inlet valve assembly, the flexible washer is lifted in a direction guided by the contact of the outer concentric edge with the inner radial surface of the cap wall, guided by the contact of the inner concentric edge with the grid wall, or both, thereby enabling fluid communication between the interior of the end piece and the environment outside the air inlet valve assembly via the air intake openings of the flange. [14] An air inlet valve assembly according to claim 13, wherein the total area of the air intake openings of the flange is equal to or greater than the cross-sectional area of the end piece. [15] An air intake valve assembly according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the air intake ribs comprise inner, middle and outer air intake ribs each concentrically disposed around the flange. [16] An air intake valve assembly according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein at least some of the valve seat elements of the air intake ribs have a taper location to limit a contact area between the air intake ribs and the flexible washer. [17] The air inlet valve assembly of claim 13, further comprising a pipe sealing rib extending radially from the end fitting to define a third sealing diameter that is greater than the second sealing diameter and ensures a fluid seal at an upper edge of the pipe or fitting of a drain, sewer and vent system having a second inner diameter. [18] The air inlet valve assembly of claim 13, wherein a rib of the second set of sealing ribs ensures a fluid seal against an upper edge of the pipe or fitting of a drain, sewer and vent system having a first inner diameter. [19] The air inlet valve assembly of any of claims 13-18, wherein the flexible washer (40) further comprises a support ring (41) removably secured to the inner circumferential edge of the flexible washer. [20] An air inlet valve assembly according to any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein the flexible washer (40) further comprises one or more substantially rigid support rings (47) on the upper surface of the flexible washer. [21] Air inlet valve assembly, comprising: a cap which has: (i) a top, (ii) a subpage, and (iii) a cap wall having an upper end extending from an outer periphery of the top surface, a lower edge defining a terminal end of the cap wall, an inner radial surface, and an outer radial surface, a body part which has: (i) a terminal having a lower end, an upper end and a central portion extending between the lower end and the upper end, the terminal having a diameter sized for insertion into a pipe or fitting of a drain, sewage and venting system, and (ii) a flange extending radially from the upper surface of the end piece, the flange having an upper surface, a lower surface, an edge extending between the upper surface and the lower surface, a cap seat positioned on an outer periphery of the upper surface adjacent the edge for sealingly engaging the lower edge of the cap wall, and an air inlet having air intake ribs, air intake openings extending through the flange from the lower surface to the upper surface and being defined as voids between air intake ribs, at least some of the air intake ribs having valve seat elements on the upper surface of the flange; and a flexible washer having a lower surface, an upper surface, an outer concentric edge extending between the upper and lower surfaces, and an inner concentric edge defining a central cavity and extending between the upper and lower surfaces, wherein, when a pressure inside the end piece is not less than an ambient pressure outside the air inlet valve assembly, the flexible washer sits on the upper surface of the flange so that the lower surface of the flexible washer contacts the valve seat elements and thereby prevents fluid communication between the interior of the end piece and the environment outside the air inlet valve assembly via the air intake openings of the flange, wherein, when a pressure inside the end piece is less than an ambient pressure outside the air inlet valve assembly, the flexible washer is lifted in a direction guided by the contact of the outer concentric edge with the inner radial surface of the cap wall, guided by the contact of the inner concentric edge with the grid wall, or both, thereby enabling fluid communication between the interior of the end piece and the environment outside the air inlet valve assembly via the air intake openings of the flange, and where the total area of the air intake openings of the flange is equal to or greater than the cross-sectional area of the end piece. [22] The air inlet valve assembly of claim 21, wherein the cap further comprises: a grille having grille struts, grille openings representing voids between the grille struts, an upper edge extending from the underside of the cap, a lower edge spaced from the upper edge, and a grid wall extending between the upper edge and the lower edge, the grid extending around the underside of the cap concentric with the cap wall. [23] An air inlet valve assembly according to claim 22, wherein fluid communication between the interior of the end piece and the environment also occurs via the grille openings of the grille. [24] An air inlet valve assembly according to claim 22 or claim 23, wherein the total area of the grille openings is equal to or greater than the cross-sectional area of the end piece. [25] An air inlet valve assembly according to any one of claims 21 to 24, wherein the flexible washer (40) further comprises a support ring (41) removably secured to the inner circumferential edge of the flexible washer. [26] An air inlet valve assembly according to any one of claims 21 to 24, wherein the flexible washer (40) further comprises one or more substantially rigid support rings (47) on the upper surface of the flexible washer. [27] A method for selectively admitting air into a piping system comprising inserting a portion of an air inlet valve assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 26 into an open end of a pipe of the piping system, whereby the insertion forms a seal between the air inlet valve assembly and the end of the pipe.

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