Gutter Connection System

Abstract

To provide a rain gutter connection structure and connection adapter capable of efficiently connecting various types of gutters to openings formed in eaves gutters.SOLUTION: There provided is a rain gutter connection structure 101 for flowing rainwater from a funnel member 105 to a gutter via an adapter 110, which includes: a funnel member 105; a gutter that allows rainwater that has flowed out of the funnel member 105 to flow downward; and a connection adapter 110 that allows rainwater that flows from a drop port 108 of the funnel member 105 to flow into the gutter. The gutter has a flow path area smaller than that of the drop port 108, and the connection adapter 110 is formed so that a flow path area is reduced from the drop port 108 toward the gutter.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2A

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a gutter connection structure and a connection adapter for connecting an eaves gutter and a down gutter. [Background technology]

[0002] As is well known, a gutter connection structure comprising an eaves gutter and a downspout that receives rainwater flowing in from an opening in the eaves gutter and directs it downward is widely used to allow rainwater flowing down from a roof surface to flow down to the ground or a manhole. As an eaves gutter, for example, a horizontal gutter and a funnel member are commonly used. A gutter is a typical gutter that runs along the edge of a roof and does not have pre-formed openings, whereas a funnel is a gutter that is placed, for example, at the end of a gutter or between gutter segments, and has a factory-formed drop opening.

[0003] In a gutter connection structure, when connecting a downspout to an opening formed in the eaves gutter (the outlet of the funnel component, the cut hole in the horizontal gutter), it is common to form an opening in the eaves gutter that has the same shape as the inlet of the downspout (see Patent Documents 1 and 2).

[0004] In other words, when a funnel member is used to connect a downspout, the drop outlet (opening) formed in the funnel member is connected to the inlet of the downspout, and the funnel member functions as a connecting member that connects the horizontal gutter and the downspout. Therefore, in order to accommodate a variety of downspouts, many funnel members each having an outlet corresponding to the inlet of the downspout are required.

[0005] On the other hand, when cutting a hole (opening) into the bottom plate of the horizontal gutter and connecting a downspout using a connecting member such as a flexible drain, special connecting members (eaves gutter upper surface placement member and downspout upper end side joint) that clamp and hold the bottom plate of the horizontal gutter are required depending on the diameter and shape of the downspout inlet. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] JP 2005-139785 A [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-299193 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] However, in the above-mentioned conventional technology, when a funnel member is used, the investment in equipment such as molds increases in order to manufacture a wide variety of funnel members, and a large amount of inventory and logistics costs are required.

[0008] Furthermore, for example, when connecting using a funnel member with a drop outlet (opening) that is different in diameter from the downspout, specifically when connecting a downspout with a larger diameter than the drop outlet of the funnel member, the downspout will be forcibly connected to a small diameter drop outlet, which may prevent the downspout from fully utilizing its capacity.

[0009] Furthermore, when connecting a downspout by forming a cutting hole (opening) in a horizontal gutter, in order to change the connection parts (the part placed on the top surface of the eaves gutter and the joint on the upper end of the downspout) according to the inlet (diameter, shape) of the downspout, many different types of cutting holes (openings) must be formed in the bottom plate of the horizontal gutter according to the downspout, which necessitates the preparation of many different types of hole-drilling tools. Therefore, the number of types of connecting parts increases depending on the type of downspout, resulting in increased costs for capital investment, inventory, logistics, etc.

[0010] Therefore, there is a need for technology that can efficiently connect a variety of downpipes to eaves gutters (horizontal gutters, funnel components) within the width of the bottom plate of the downpipe, regardless of the downpipe's cross-section (shape and diameter when viewed along the pipe axis).

[0011] The present invention has been made in consideration of these circumstances, and aims to provide a gutter connection structure and connection adapter that can efficiently connect a variety of down gutters to openings formed in eaves gutters. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention proposes the following means. (1) A first aspect of the present invention is a gutter connection structure that connects the eaves gutter and the upright gutter, comprising a bottom plate, side plates extending upward from both ends of the bottom plate in the width direction, and an opening formed in the bottom plate, a downspout that allows rainwater flowing out from the eaves gutter to flow downward, and a connection adapter that allows rainwater flowing in from the opening of the eaves gutter to flow into the upright gutter, and is characterized in that the downspout is formed with a flow path area smaller than the opening, and the connection adapter has a flow path area that is reduced from the opening toward the upright gutter.

[0013] The gutter connection structure of the present invention comprises an eaves gutter, a down gutter, and a connection adapter whose upper end pipe portion corresponds to an opening and whose lower end pipe portion corresponds to the down gutter, and which allows rainwater flowing in from the opening of the eaves gutter to flow into the down gutter, the down gutter being formed so that its flow path area is smaller than the opening of the eaves gutter, and the connection adapter has a flow path area that is reduced from the upper end pipe portion corresponding to the opening towards the lower end pipe portion corresponding to the down gutter. As a result, by changing the connection adapter, many different types of downpipes with different cross sections can be connected to the opening of the eaves gutter.

[0014] In this specification, an eaves gutter is a gutter that is arranged along the edge of a roof (eaves) and collects rainwater flowing down from the roof surface, and includes horizontal gutters and funnel members connected to horizontal gutters. Here, the gutter refers to a typical eaves gutter that is installed along the edge of the roof and does not have a pre-formed opening, and the funnel member refers to an eaves gutter that is placed, for example, at the end of a gutter or between two gutter units, and has a drop hole (opening) formed in a factory.

[0015] In addition, it is possible to arbitrarily set whether or not the connection adapter has a means for connecting to the opening of the eaves gutter. For example, the connection adapter may have a flange portion, and this flange portion may be aligned with the opening and connected by adhesive or a mounting member (e.g., a screw, etc.).

[0016] The openings formed in the eaves gutter may be circular (including oval), rectangular, or any other polygonal shape. The inlet (upper hole) of the downspout may be formed such that the cross section when viewed along the pipe axis is not only a circular hole but also a rectangular or other polygonal shape.

[0017] (2) In the gutter connection structure described in (1) above, the connection adapter may comprise an upper end pipe portion having a peripheral surface formed to correspond to the opening, a lower end pipe portion having an outer circumferential surface formed to correspond to the downspout, a flow path area reduction portion formed between the upper end pipe portion and the lower end pipe portion and reducing the flow path area from the upper end pipe portion toward the lower end pipe portion, and a connection means for connecting the upper end pipe portion to the opening of the eaves gutter.

[0018] According to the gutter connection structure of this invention, the connection adapter comprises an upper end pipe portion whose peripheral surface is formed to correspond to the opening, a lower end pipe portion whose outer peripheral surface is formed to correspond to the downspout, a flow path area reduction portion formed between the upper end pipe portion and the lower end pipe portion which reduces the flow path area from the upper end pipe portion toward the lower end pipe portion, and a connection means for connecting the upper end pipe portion to the opening of the eaves gutter, so that it can be easily and efficiently connected to the opening of the eaves gutter.

[0019] Here, "an upper end pipe portion whose circumferential surface is formed to correspond to the opening" means that the circumferential surface of the upper end pipe portion of the connection adapter is formed in a shape and dimensions that allow rainwater to flow smoothly from the opening into the upper end pipe portion, and means, for example, that when the outer circumferential surface of the upper end pipe portion can be inserted into the opening, or when the opening has a protrusion formed on its periphery that extends downward, the outer circumferential surface of the upper end pipe portion can be inserted into the opening, or the inner circumferential surface of the upper end pipe portion can accept the protrusion.

[0020] In addition, the "lower end pipe portion whose outer peripheral surface is formed to correspond to the downspout" means that when the lower end pipe portion of the connection adapter is inserted into the downspout, it is formed with a shape and dimensions that allow rainwater to flow smoothly from the lower end pipe portion into the downspout, and it is possible to arbitrarily set whether or not a gap is formed between the inner peripheral surface of the downspout and the outer peripheral surface of the lower end pipe portion when the lower end pipe portion of the connection adapter is inserted into the downspout.

[0021] The flow path area reducing section that reduces the flow path area from the upper end pipe section toward the lower end pipe section may be configured, for example, as a stepped section in which the flow path area is reduced all at once from the upper end pipe section to the lower end pipe section with the pipe axial dimension (of the connection adapter) being zero, or the flow path area may be gradually reduced along the pipe axial direction. When the flow path area is reduced along the pipe axial direction, the cross section including the pipe axis may be in a funnel shape that is linearly inclined and reduced, or may be formed in a curved shape that is concave inward or bulges outward.

[0022] The structure of the connection means can be set arbitrarily, and in addition to the engagement described below, it may be configured to use, for example, a flange portion or other well-known attachment means (for example, bolts, etc.).

[0023] (3) The gutter connection structure described in (2) above may be such that the eaves gutter is a funnel member that is integrally molded with the bottom plate and has a protrusion extending downward, with a drop opening formed on the inner periphery of the protrusion and a first engagement portion formed on the circumferential surface of the protrusion, the opening being the drop opening, and the connection adapter is provided with a second engagement portion that engages with the first engagement portion as the connection means to connect the upper end pipe portion to the opening.

[0024] According to the gutter connection structure of this invention, the eaves gutter is a funnel member, the opening is a drop hole formed in the funnel member, and the connection adapter has a second engagement portion as a connection means, which engages with a first engagement portion formed on the peripheral surface of the protruding portion of the funnel member to connect the upper end pipe portion to the opening, so that a downspout can be easily and efficiently connected to the eaves gutter. As a result, many types of downspouts can be connected to one type of funnel material, which makes it possible to reduce capital investment such as molds, and also reduces inventory and large logistics costs related to funnel materials.In addition, it is possible to shorten the development period when developing a gutter connection structure using funnel materials. Furthermore, no special tools are required to connect the downspout to the eaves gutter.

[0025] Here, the phrase "the first engagement portion is formed on the circumferential surface of the protrusion" means that the first engagement portion may be formed, for example, on the outer circumferential surface or the inner circumferential surface of the protrusion. The first and second engagement parts can be configured as desired. For example, they may be configured with convex and concave parts formed in a complementary manner in the circumferential direction around the pipe axis of the connection adapter and the downspout, and these convex and concave parts may have a screw structure with the pipe axis as the axis, or may be formed in the circumferential direction and have a partial notch in the circumferential direction, and may be inserted into each other in the axial direction through this notch and locked to each other by rotating in the axial direction. Also, a screw structure that moves in the axial direction by rotating in the circumferential direction may be combined.

[0026] (4) The gutter connection structure described in (2) above may have the opening as a cut hole formed by cutting the bottom plate into a circular shape, and may include an eaves gutter upper surface placement member arranged on the upper side of the peripheral portion of the opening and having a first engagement portion formed on its peripheral surface, and may include a second engagement portion as the connection means that engages with the first engagement portion to connect the upper end pipe portion to the opening.

[0027] According to the gutter connection structure of this invention, the opening is a cut hole formed by cutting the bottom plate of the eaves gutter (horizontal gutter) into a circular shape, and is provided with an eaves gutter upper surface placement member that is arranged on the upper side of the bottom plate at the peripheral part of the opening and has a first engagement portion formed on its peripheral surface, and the connection adapter is provided with a second engagement portion as a connection means, and the second engagement portion engages with the first engagement portion formed on the peripheral surface of the eaves gutter upper surface placement member to connect the upper end pipe portion to the opening, so that a downspout can be easily and efficiently connected to the eaves gutter. As a result, multiple types of downspouts can be connected using one type of connecting part (such as the eaves gutter top surface placement part and the downspout upper end fitting), which makes it possible to reduce capital investment such as molds, and also reduces inventory related to connecting parts and large logistics costs. Furthermore, no special tools are required to connect the downspout to the eaves gutter.

[0028] Here, the first engagement portion being formed on the peripheral surface of the eaves gutter upper surface placement member means that when the eaves gutter upper surface placement member has a tubular portion that protrudes below the bottom plate from the opening, the first engagement portion is formed on either the inner or outer peripheral surface of the tubular portion, and when the eaves gutter upper surface placement member does not protrude below the opening, the first engagement portion is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the eaves gutter upper surface placement member (positioned above the bottom plate). (5) A second aspect of the present invention is a connection adapter for use in the gutter connection structure described in (1) or (2) above, comprising: an upper end pipe section having a peripheral surface formed to correspond to the opening; a lower end pipe section having an outer circumferential surface formed to correspond to the downspout; a flow path area reduction section disposed between the upper end pipe section and the lower end pipe section and reducing the flow path area from the upper end pipe section toward the lower end pipe section; and a connection means for connecting the upper end pipe section to the opening of the eaves gutter.

[0029] The connection adapter of the present invention comprises an upper end pipe portion whose peripheral surface is formed to correspond to the opening, a lower end pipe portion whose outer circumferential surface is formed to correspond to the downspout, a flow path area reduction portion arranged between the upper end pipe portion and the lower end pipe portion which reduces the flow path area from the upper end pipe portion toward the lower end pipe portion, and a connection means for connecting the upper end pipe portion to the opening of the eaves gutter, so that it can be easily and efficiently connected to the opening of the eaves gutter.

[0030] (6) The connection adapter described in (5) above may be a funnel member in which the eaves gutter is integrally molded with the bottom plate, has a protrusion extending downward, has a drop opening formed around the periphery of the protrusion, and has a first engagement portion formed on the periphery of the protrusion, and when the opening is a drop opening, the connection means may include a second engagement portion that engages with the first engagement portion to connect the upper end pipe portion to the opening.

[0031] According to the connection adapter of the present invention, the connection adapter is provided with a second engagement portion as a connection means, and when the eaves gutter is a funnel member and the opening is a drop hole formed in the funnel member, the second engagement portion engages with the first engagement portion formed on the peripheral surface of the protruding portion of the funnel member to connect the upper end pipe portion to the opening, so that a downspout can be easily and efficiently connected to the eaves gutter. Furthermore, no special tools are required to connect the downspout to the eaves gutter.

[0032] (7) The connection adapter described in (5) above may, when the opening is a cut hole formed by cutting the bottom plate into a circular shape, be provided with a second engaging portion that engages with a first engaging portion formed on the peripheral surface of an eaves gutter upper surface positioning member that is arranged on the upper side of the peripheral portion of the opening to connect the upper end pipe portion to the opening.

[0033] According to the connection adapter of the present invention, when the connection adapter is provided with a second engagement portion as a connection means, and the opening is a cut hole formed by cutting the bottom plate of the eaves gutter (horizontal gutter) into a circular shape, and is provided with an eaves gutter upper surface positioning member that is arranged on the upper side of the bottom plate at the peripheral part of the opening and has a first engagement portion formed on its peripheral surface, the second engagement portion engages with the first engagement portion formed on the peripheral surface of the eaves gutter upper surface positioning member to connect the upper end pipe portion to the opening, so that a downspout can be easily and efficiently connected to the eaves gutter. Furthermore, no special tools are required to connect the downspout to the eaves gutter. Effect of the Invention

[0034] According to the gutter connection structure and connection adapter of the present invention, many different types of down gutters can be efficiently connected to the opening formed in the eaves gutter. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0035] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a rain gutter connection structure according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of a first application example of the gutter connection structure according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of a first application example of the gutter connection structure according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3A] 6 is a vertical cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of a second application example of the gutter connection structure according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 3B] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of a second application example of the gutter connection structure according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4A] FIG. 11 is a vertical cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of a third application example of the gutter connection structure according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4B] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of a third application example of the gutter connection structure according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a rain gutter connection system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6A]FIG. 11 is a vertical cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of a first application example of a gutter connection structure according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6B] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of a first application example of a gutter connection structure according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7A] FIG. 11 is a vertical cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of a second application example of the gutter connection structure according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7B] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of a first application example of a gutter connection structure according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8A] 13 is a vertical cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of a third application example of the gutter connection structure according to the second embodiment. FIG. [Figure 8B] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of a third application example of the gutter connection structure according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0036] First Embodiment A first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2A to FIG. 4B. Fig. 1 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the schematic configuration of the gutter connection structure according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2A, Fig. 3A, and Fig. 4A are vertical cross-sectional views for explaining the schematic configuration of first to third application examples of the gutter connection structure according to the first embodiment, and Fig. 2B, Fig. 3B, and Fig. 4B are perspective views for explaining the schematic configuration of the first to third application examples. Note that the downspout is omitted in Fig. 2A, Fig. 3A, and Fig. 4A, and the funnel member is omitted in Fig. 2B, Fig. 3B, and Fig. 4B.

[0037] 1 and 2A to 4B, reference numeral 100 denotes a gutter connection structure, and reference numerals 101 to 103 denote gutter connection structures according to first to third application examples of the first embodiment. Furthermore, reference numeral 105 denotes a funnel (eaves gutter), reference numeral 108 denotes a drop outlet (opening), reference numerals 110, 120, and 130 denote connection adapters, and reference numerals 141, 142, and 143 denote downspouts.

[0038] The gutter connection structure 100 according to the first embodiment includes, for example, a funnel member (eaves gutter) 105, three (plural) types of connection adapters 110, 120, 130, and three (plural) types of down gutters 141, 142, 143, as shown in FIG.

[0039] Furthermore, by using connection adapters 110, 120, and 130, the drop outlet (opening) 108, which has a constant cross-section and is formed in the funnel member (eaves gutter) 105, can be connected to multiple types (three types in this case) of inlet downpipes 141, 142, and 143, which have different cross-sections (at least one of the shape and inner diameter) and a smaller flow area than the drop outlet 108.

[0040] In other words, it is possible to freely connect a plurality of types of down pipes 141, 142, 143 having different cross sections to drop outlet 108 having a constant cross section (here, a circle with a constant diameter). For this reason, the connection adapters 110, 120, and 130 have reduced flow passage areas corresponding to the drop outlet (opening) 108 and the downpipes 141, 142, and 143.

[0041] The gutter connection structure 100 is configured to direct rainwater flowing down from the funnel member (eaves gutter) 105 through the connection adapters 110, 120, 130 to the downpipes 141, 142, 143.

[0042] [First Application Example (First Embodiment)] Hereinafter, a gutter connection structure according to a first application example of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 1, 2A and 2B. A gutter connection structure 101 according to a first application example of the first embodiment includes, for example, a funnel member (eaves gutter) 105, a connection adapter 110, and a downspout 141, as shown in Figs. 1, 2A, and 2B.

[0043] The drop outlet (opening) 108 formed in the funnel member (eaves gutter) 105 and the inlet 141A of the downspout 141 are connected by a connection adapter 110, so that rainwater flowing out from the funnel member (eaves gutter) 105 flows into the downspout 141 via the connection adapter 110.

[0044] The configuration of the funnel member (eaves gutter) 105 can be set arbitrarily, and may be, for example, a large one installed along the roof of a logistics center or a small one installed under the eaves of a house. Also, it may be used at the end of a gutter to allow rainwater to flow in from one side, or may be placed between two gutters to connect the gutter to each other. In this embodiment, the funnel member (eaves gutter) 105 is configured to be disposed, for example, between horizontal gutters (not shown) and connect the horizontal gutters to each other.

[0045] Moreover, the material for forming the funnel member (eaves gutter) 105 can be set arbitrarily, and in this embodiment, it is formed of, for example, hard polyvinyl chloride resin.

[0046] As shown in Figures 1 and 2A, the funnel member (eaves gutter) 105 includes, for example, a bottom plate 106, side plates 107 formed on both sides of the width of the bottom plate 106 and extending upward, a drop outlet (opening) 108, and a first engagement portion 109, and is configured to allow rainwater flowing from the horizontal gutter (eaves gutter, not shown) to flow out from the drop outlet 108.

[0047] The bottom plate 106 is formed long along the edge of the roof, for example, and is formed in, for example, a long rectangular shape in plan view. In addition, a drop hole (opening) 108 that is circular in plan view is formed through the bottom plate 106 in the thickness direction. The diameter of the drop opening (opening) 108 can be set arbitrarily, but in this embodiment, it is formed to have the maximum diameter relative to the width dimension of the bottom plate 106. The shape of the drop opening (opening) 108 may also be set arbitrarily. In this embodiment, the protrusion 106T and the drop hole (opening) 108 are molded (formed) integrally with the bottom plate 106 of the funnel member (eaves gutter) 105 when it is manufactured in a factory.

[0048] Further, on the lower surface of the bottom plate 106, for example, an inverted cone (funnel) shaped protrusion (water reservoir, pit) 106T is formed on the periphery of the drop hole (opening) 108, protruding downward in an annular shape.

[0049] The first engagement portion 109 is, for example, formed on the outer circumferential surface of the protrusion 106T and is configured of protrusions arranged in two (plural) rows in the tube axial direction protruding toward the outer circumferential side. Each protrusion has four (a plurality of) notches extending in the circumferential direction (e.g., extending longer than 90°), and the four notches are equally spaced and formed at the same circumferential positions in the two rows of protrusions. That is, each of the protrusions is formed in the circumferential direction (eg, less than 90°), with four (a plurality of) protrusions spaced at equal intervals (eg, greater than 90°) in the circumferential direction. The number of protrusions arranged in the first engagement portion 109, the number in the circumferential direction, the circumferential length, and the length of the notches can be set arbitrarily.

[0050] The downpipe 141 can be set arbitrarily, but in this embodiment, the downpipe 141 is formed so that, for example, the cross section of the uppipe 141A is circular when viewed along the tube axis. Moreover, the upper inlet 141A is formed to have, for example, the smallest opening diameter (smallest flow path area) of an applicable downpipe. The material for forming the downspout 141 can be any material such as hard polyvinyl chloride resin, ABS, AES, etc., but from the standpoint of durability, it is preferable to use an olefin-based resin, for example.

[0051] As shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the connection adapter 110 has, for example, an upper end pipe portion 111, a funnel-shaped portion (flow path area reduction portion) 114, a lower end pipe portion 116, and a second engagement portion (connection means) 112. Moreover, the upper end pipe section 111, the funnel-shaped section (reduced flow path area section) 114, and the lower end pipe section 116 are arranged in this order from top to bottom.

[0052] The upper end pipe portion 111 is disposed at the upper end portion of the connection adapter 110, and is formed to correspond to the drop hole (opening) . Specifically, when viewed along the tube axis, the inner circumference is formed into a circle into which the protruding portion 106T can be inserted. Further, a second engagement portion (connection means) 112 corresponding to the first engagement portion 109 is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the upper end pipe portion 111 .

[0053] The second engagement portion (connection means) 112, for example, protrudes inward (toward the tube axis) from the inner circumferential surface of the upper end tube portion 111, forming a gap capable of accommodating the first engagement portion 109, and has protrusions extending at intervals in the circumferential direction and arranged in two (multiple) rows in the tube axis direction.

[0054] In addition, the second engagement portion (connection means) 112 is configured such that the protruding portion of the first engagement portion 109 has a notch that allows it to move in the tube axial direction, and by inserting the first engagement portion 109 into the second engagement portion 112 in the tube axial direction and rotating it circumferentially, the first engagement portion 109 and the second engagement portion 112 engage with each other, and the protruding portions of the first engagement portion 109 and the second engagement portion 112 engage with each other.

[0055] The configurations of the first engaging portion 109 and the second engaging portion (connecting means) 112 are not limited to the above-mentioned configurations and may be set arbitrarily. For example, they may be configured such that no intervals are formed in the circumferential direction. Alternatively, the first engagement portion 109 may be formed on the inner circumferential surface of the protrusion 106T, and the second engagement portion (connection means) 112 may be formed on the outer circumferential surface of the upper end pipe portion 111.

[0056] The lower end pipe portion 116 is disposed at the lower end portion of the connection adapter 110 and is formed to correspond to the downspout 141 . Specifically, the lower end pipe portion 116 has a circular outer shape when viewed along the pipe axis direction, and its outer peripheral surface (outer diameter) is capable of being inserted into the inner peripheral surface (inner diameter) of the upper inlet 141A of the downspout 141.

[0057] The funnel-shaped portion (reduced flow path area portion) 114 is formed between the upper end pipe portion 111 and the lower end pipe portion 116, and is configured so that the flow path area decreases from the upper end pipe portion 111 toward the lower end pipe portion 116. In addition, the funnel-shaped portion (reduced flow area portion) 114 is formed, for example, in an approximately conical shape, and the cross section (diameter in this embodiment) when viewed along the tube axis direction gradually becomes smaller from the upper end tube portion 111 to the lower end tube portion 116.

[0058] The material from which the connection adaptor 110 is made can be any material, such as hard polyvinyl chloride resin, ABS, or AES, but from the standpoint of durability, it is preferable to use an olefin-based resin, for example.

[0059] [Second Application Example (First Embodiment)] Hereinafter, a gutter connection structure according to a second application example of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 1, 3A and 3B. A gutter connection structure 102 according to a second application example of the first embodiment includes, for example, a funnel member (eaves gutter) 105, a connection adapter 120, and a downspout 142, as shown in FIGS. 1, 3A, and 3B.

[0060] The drop outlet (opening) 108 formed in the funnel member (eaves gutter) 105 and the inlet 142A of the downspout 142 are connected by a connection adapter 120, so that rainwater flowing out from the funnel member (eaves gutter) 105 flows into the downspout 142 via the connection adapter 120. In addition, the funnel member (eaves gutter) 105 is similar to that in the first application example, so it is given the same reference numeral and the description thereof is omitted.

[0061] The downpipe 142 is formed, for example, so that the cross section when the upper inlet 142A is viewed along the pipe axis is circular. Moreover, the upper inlet 142A is formed to have, for example, the maximum aperture (maximum flow path area) of an applicable downpipe. The material forming the downspout 142 is the same as that in the first application example, and therefore the description will be omitted.

[0062] As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the connection adapter 120 includes, for example, an upper end pipe portion 121, a funnel-shaped portion (reduced flow path area portion) 124, a lower end pipe portion 126, and a second engagement portion (connection means) 112. Moreover, the upper end pipe section 121, the funnel-shaped section (reduced flow path area section) 124, and the lower end pipe section 126 are arranged in this order from top to bottom.

[0063] The upper end pipe portion 121 is disposed, for example, at the upper end portion of the connection adapter 120 and is formed to correspond to the drop hole (opening) 108 . Specifically, when viewed along the tube axis, the inner circumference is formed into a circle into which the protruding portion 106T can be inserted. Further, a second engagement portion (connection means) 112 is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the upper end pipe portion 121. In addition, the second engagement portion (connection means) 112 is similar to that in the first application example, so it is given the same reference numeral and the description thereof is omitted.

[0064] The lower end pipe portion 126 is disposed at the lower end of the connection adapter 120 and is formed to correspond to the downspout 142 . Specifically, the lower end pipe portion 126 has a circular outer shape when viewed along the pipe axis direction, and its outer peripheral surface (outer diameter) is capable of being inserted into the inner peripheral surface (inner diameter) of the upper inlet 142A of the downspout 142.

[0065] The funnel-shaped portion (reduced flow path area portion) 124 is formed between the upper end pipe portion 121 and the lower end pipe portion 126, and is configured so that the flow path area decreases from the upper end pipe portion 121 toward the lower end pipe portion 126. In addition, the funnel-shaped portion (flow path area reduction portion) 124 is formed, for example, in an approximately conical shape, and the cross-sectional shape (diameter in this embodiment) when viewed along the tube axis direction gradually becomes smaller from the upper end tube portion 121 to the lower end tube portion 126.

[0066] The funnel-shaped portion (flow path area reduction portion) 124 has a lower end pipe portion 126 formed to have a larger diameter than the lower end pipe portion 116 according to the first application example. Therefore, the funnel-shaped portion (flow path area reduction portion) 124 is formed so that, for example, the length in the tube axis direction is shorter than that of the funnel-shaped portion 114 according to the first application example. The material for forming the connection adaptor 120 is the same as that in the first application example, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0067] [Third Application Example (First Embodiment)] Hereinafter, a gutter connection structure according to a third application example of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 1, 4A and 4B. A gutter connection structure 103 according to a third application example of the first embodiment includes, for example, a funnel member (eaves gutter) 105, a connection adapter 130, and a downspout 143, as shown in Figs. 1, 4A, and 4B.

[0068] The drop outlet (opening) 108 formed in the funnel member (eaves gutter) 105 and the inlet 143A of the downspout 143 are connected by a connection adapter 130, so that rainwater flowing out from the funnel member (eaves gutter) 105 flows into the downspout 143 via the connection adapter 130. In addition, the funnel member (eaves gutter) 105 is similar to that in the first application example, so it is given the same reference numeral and the description thereof is omitted.

[0069] The downpipe 143 is formed, for example, so that the cross section when the upper inlet 143A is viewed along the pipe axis is substantially square (quadrilateral). Specifically, when viewed along the tube axis, arc-shaped corners recessed from the outside to the inside are formed at the four vertices of the square (quadrangular shape). The material for forming the downspout 143 is the same as that in the first application example, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0070] As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the connection adapter 130 has, for example, an upper end pipe portion 131, a stepped portion (flow path area reduction portion) 134, a lower end pipe portion 136, a slip-out prevention portion 137, and a second engagement portion (connection means) 112. The upper end pipe section 131, the stepped section (reduced flow path area section) 134, and the lower end pipe section 136 are arranged in this order from top to bottom.

[0071] The upper end pipe portion 131 is disposed, for example, at the upper end portion of the connection adapter 130 and is formed to correspond to the drop hole (opening) 108 . Specifically, when viewed along the tube axis, the inner circumference is formed into a circle into which the protruding portion 106T can be inserted. Further, a second engagement portion (connection means) 112 is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the upper end pipe portion 131. In addition, the second engagement portion (connection means) 112 is similar to that in the first application example, so it is given the same reference numeral and the description thereof is omitted.

[0072] The lower end pipe portion 136 is disposed at the lower end of the connection adapter 130 and is formed to correspond to the downspout 143 . Specifically, the lower end pipe portion 136 has a circular outer shape when viewed along the pipe axis direction, and its outer peripheral surface (outer diameter) is capable of being inserted into the inner peripheral surface (inner diameter) of the upper inlet 143A of the downpipe 143.

[0073] The slip-out prevention shape portions 137 protrude from the outer circumferential surface of the lower end pipe portion 136, and are formed in two rows, one above the other, in the circumferential direction. The lower end pipe portion 136 is configured to be prevented from coming off the downspout 143 .

[0074] The step-shaped portion (reduced flow path area portion) 134 is formed between the upper end pipe portion 131 and the lower end pipe portion 136, and is configured so that the flow path area is reduced from the upper end pipe portion 131 toward the lower end pipe portion 136. In this embodiment, the step portion (reduced flow path area portion) 134 is formed by, for example, a flat surface facing the drop opening (opening) 108. The flow passage area is configured to decrease abruptly (the length in the pipe axis direction becomes zero) from the upper end pipe portion 131 to the lower end pipe portion 136 . The material for forming the connection adaptor 120 is the same as that in the first application example, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0075] According to the gutter connection structures 101, 102, 103 of the first embodiment, the upper end pipe portions 111, 121, 131 of the connection adapters 110, 120, 130 are formed to correspond to the drop outlet (opening) 108 of the funnel member (eaves gutter) 105, and the lower end pipe portions 116, 126, 136 are formed to correspond to the inlets 141A, 142A, 143A of the downpipes 141, 142, 143, and the flow path area is reduced from the upper end pipe portions 111, 121, 131 toward the lower end pipe portions 116, 126, 136 at the flow path area reduction portions 114, 124, 134, so that the funnel member (eaves gutter) 105 and the downpipes 141, 142, 143 can be easily and efficiently connected.

[0076] Furthermore, according to the gutter connection structures 101, 102, 103 of the first embodiment, the connection adapters 110, 120, 130 are provided with the second engagement portion 112 as a connection means, so that the first engagement portion 119 formed on the protrusion 106T of the funnel member 105 can be engaged with the second engagement portion 112 to easily and efficiently connect the upper end pipe portions 111, 121, 131 of the connection adapters 110, 120, 130 to the drop hole (opening) 108. As a result, many types of downpipes 141, 142, 143 can be connected to one type of funnel member 105, which makes it possible to reduce capital investment such as molds, and reduces inventory and large logistics costs related to funnel members. In addition, the development period for a gutter connection structure using the funnel member 105 can be shortened. Furthermore, since no special tools are required to connect the downspout to the eaves gutter, the connection work can be carried out efficiently.

[0077] <Second embodiment> Hereinafter, the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6A to FIG. 8B. Fig. 5 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the schematic configuration of the gutter connection structure according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figs. 6A, 7A, and 8A are vertical cross-sectional views for explaining the schematic configuration of first to third application examples of the gutter connection structure according to the second embodiment, and Figs. 6B, 7B, and 8B are perspective views for explaining the schematic configuration of the first to third application examples. Note that downpipes are omitted in Figs. 6A, 7A, and 8A, and horizontal gutters (eaves gutters) are omitted in Figs. 6B, 7B, and 8B.

[0078] 5 and 6A to 8B, reference numeral 200 denotes a gutter connection structure, and reference numerals 201 to 203 denote gutter connection structures according to first to third application examples of the second embodiment. Furthermore, reference numeral 205 denotes a horizontal gutter (eaves gutter), reference numeral 208 denotes a drop outlet (opening), reference numerals 210, 220, and 230 denote connection adapters, reference numeral 250 denotes a strainer member (a member disposed on the upper surface of the eaves gutter), and reference numerals 141, 142, and 143 denote vertical gutters.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 5, the gutter connection structure 200 of the second embodiment includes, for example, a horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205, three (multiple) types of connection adapters 210, 220, 230, three (multiple) types of downpipes 141, 142, 143, and a strainer member (member placed on the upper surface of the eaves gutter) 250.

[0080] Furthermore, by using connection adapters 210, 220, 230 and a strainer member (member placed on the upper surface of the eaves gutter) 250, the cut hole (opening) 208 with a constant cross section formed in the horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205 can be connected to multiple types (three types in this case) of inlet downpipes 141, 142, 143 which have different cross sections (at least one of the shape and inner diameter) and a smaller flow area than the cut hole (opening) 208.

[0081] In other words, it is possible to freely connect a plurality of types of downpipes 141, 142, 143 having different cross sections to cut hole (opening) 208 having a constant cross section (here, a circle with a constant diameter). For this reason, the connection adapters 210, 220, and 230 have reduced flow passage areas corresponding to the cut hole (opening) 208 and the downpipes 141, 142, and 143. The gutter connection structure 200 is configured to direct rainwater flowing down from the horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205 through the connection adapters 210, 220, 230 to the downpipes 141, 142, 143.

[0082] [First Application Example (Second Embodiment)] Hereinafter, a gutter connection structure according to a first application example of the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 5, 6A and 6B. As shown in Figures 5, 6A, and 6B, the gutter connection structure 201 relating to the first application example of the second embodiment includes, for example, a horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205, a connection adapter 210, a vertical gutter 141, and a strainer member (eaves gutter upper surface placement member) 250.

[0083] The cut hole (opening) 208 formed in the horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205 and the inlet 141A of the downspout 141 are connected by a connection adapter 210, so that rainwater flowing out from the horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205 flows into the downspout 141 via the connection adapter 210.

[0084] The configuration of the horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205 can be set arbitrarily, and may be, for example, a large one installed along the roof of a logistics center or a small one installed under the eaves of a house. In this embodiment, the horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205 has a cut hole (opening) 208 formed using a cutting tool such as a hole saw.

[0085] Moreover, the material for forming the horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205 can be set arbitrarily, and in this embodiment, it is formed of, for example, hard polyvinyl chloride resin.

[0086] As shown in Figures 5 and 6A, the horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205 has, for example, a bottom plate 206, side plates 207 formed on both sides of the width of the bottom plate 206 and extending upward, and a cut hole (opening) 208. It is configured to receive rainwater flowing down from the roof surface (not shown) and allow it to flow out through cut holes (openings) 208.

[0087] The bottom plate 206 is formed, for example, long along the edge of the roof, and is formed, for example, in a long rectangular shape in plan view. In addition, the bottom plate 206 is formed with a cut hole (opening) 208 that penetrates in the thickness direction and has a circular shape in plan view. The diameter of the cut hole (opening) 208 can be set arbitrarily, but in this embodiment, it is formed to have the maximum diameter relative to the width dimension of the bottom plate 106. In addition, the shape of the cut hole 208 may also be set arbitrarily. The downspout 141 is similar to that in the first application example according to the first embodiment, and so is given the same reference numeral and description thereof is omitted.

[0088] The strainer member (eaves gutter upper surface placement member) 250 comprises an upper flange portion 251 arranged on the upper surface of the bottom plate 206, a cylindrical portion 252 extending downward from the upper flange portion 251, a ring portion 253 arranged above the upper flange portion 251 for trapping and removing large foreign matter, a plurality of support portions 254 formed on an axis erected on the upper flange portion 251 and supporting the ring portion 253, and a first engagement portion 255.

[0089] The upper flange portion 251 is, for example, an annular shape with a circular outer shape in a plan view and a circular hole formed in the inner circumference. The upper flange portion 251 can be disposed on the periphery of the cut hole (opening) 208 and can clamp the bottom plate 206 in cooperation with the connection adapter 210.

[0090] The cylindrical portion 252 is formed below the circular hole of the upper flange portion 251, and is formed in a generally inverted cone shape. In this embodiment, the cylindrical portion 252 is formed to protrude below the bottom plate 206 through the cut hole 208, and is configured so that the connection adapter 210 can be connected.

[0091] The ring portion 253 is configured, for example, by a linear member formed in an annular shape, and is supported at a predetermined position by a support portion 254.

[0092] The first engagement portion 255 is, for example, formed on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 252 and configured of protruding portions arranged in two (plural) rows in the tube axial direction protruding toward the outer circumferential side. Each protrusion has four (a plurality of) notches extending in the circumferential direction (e.g., extending longer than 90°), and the four notches are equally spaced and formed at the same circumferential positions in the two rows of protrusions.

[0093] That is, each of the protrusions is formed in the circumferential direction (eg, less than 90°), with four (a plurality of) protrusions spaced at equal intervals (eg, greater than 90°) in the circumferential direction. The number of protrusions arranged in the first engagement portion 255, the number in the circumferential direction, the circumferential length, and the length of the notches can be set arbitrarily.

[0094] As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the connection adapter 210 has, for example, an upper end pipe portion 211, a funnel-shaped portion (flow path area reduction portion) 214, a lower end pipe portion 216, and a second engagement portion (connection means) 212. Moreover, the upper end pipe section 211, the funnel-shaped section (reduced flow path area section) 214, and the lower end pipe section 216 are arranged in this order from top to bottom.

[0095] The upper end pipe portion 211 is disposed at the upper end portion of the connection adapter 210 and is formed to correspond to the cutting hole (opening portion) 208 . Specifically, when viewed along the pipe axis, the inner periphery is formed into a circular shape into which a cylindrical portion 252 of a strainer member (member to be disposed on the upper surface of the eaves gutter) 250 can be inserted.

[0096] Further, the upper end pipe portion 211 is formed with a flange portion 211F, which corresponds to an upper surface flange portion 251 of a strainer member (a member disposed on the upper surface of the eaves gutter) 250, for example, toward the outer periphery in the radial direction. The flange portion 211F cooperates with the upper flange portion 251 at the periphery of the cut hole 208 to sandwich and hold the bottom plate 206. Further, on the inner peripheral surface of the upper end pipe portion 211, a second engagement portion (connection means) 212 corresponding to the first engagement portion 255 is formed.

[0097] The second engagement portion (connection means) 212, for example, protrudes inward (toward the tube axis) from the inner circumferential surface of the upper end tube portion 211, forming a gap capable of accommodating the first engagement portion 255, and has protrusions extending at intervals in the circumferential direction and arranged in two rows (multiple) in the tube axis direction.

[0098] In addition, the second engagement portion (connection means) 212 is configured such that the protruding portion of the first engagement portion 255 has a notch that is movable in the tube axial direction, and by inserting the first engagement portion 255 into the second engagement portion 212 in the tube axial direction and rotating it circumferentially, the first engagement portion 255 and the second engagement portion 212 engage with each other, and the protruding portions of the first engagement portion 255 and the second engagement portion 212 engage with each other.

[0099] The configuration of the first engagement portion 255 and the second engagement portion (connection means) 212 is not limited to the above-mentioned configuration and may be set arbitrarily. For example, a configuration in which no interval is formed in the circumferential direction may be used. Alternatively, the first engagement portion 255 may be formed on the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 252 , and the second engagement portion (connection means) 212 may be formed on the outer circumferential surface of the upper end pipe portion 211 .

[0100] The lower end pipe portion 216 is disposed at the lower end portion of the connection adapter 210 and is formed to correspond to the downspout 141 . Specifically, the lower end pipe portion 216 has a circular outer shape when viewed along the pipe axis direction, and its outer peripheral surface (outer diameter) is capable of being inserted into the inner peripheral surface (inner diameter) of the upper inlet 141A of the downspout 141.

[0101] The funnel-shaped section (reduced flow path area section) 214 is formed between the upper end pipe section 211 and the lower end pipe section 216, and is configured so that the flow path area decreases from the upper end pipe section 211 toward the lower end pipe section 216. In addition, the funnel-shaped portion (reduced flow path area portion) 214 is formed, for example, in an approximately conical shape, and the cross section (diameter in this embodiment) when viewed along the pipe axis direction gradually becomes smaller from the upper end pipe portion 211 to the lower end pipe portion 216.

[0102] The material forming the connection adaptor 210 can be any material such as hard polyvinyl chloride resin, ABS, AES, etc., but from the viewpoint of durability, it is preferable to use an olefin-based resin, for example.

[0103] [Second Application Example (Second Embodiment)] Hereinafter, a gutter connection structure according to a second application example of the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 5, 7A and 7B. As shown in Figures 5, 7A, and 7B, the gutter connection structure 202 relating to the second application example of the second embodiment includes, for example, a horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205, a connection adapter 220, a vertical gutter 142, and a strainer member (eaves gutter upper surface placement member) 250.

[0104] The cut hole (opening) 208 formed in the horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205 and the inlet 142A of the downspout 142 are connected by a connection adapter 220, so that rainwater flowing out from the horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205 flows into the downspout 142 via the connection adapter 220. In addition, the horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205 and the strainer member 250 are similar to those in the first application example of the second embodiment, and the vertical gutter 142 is similar to those in the second application example of the first embodiment, so the same symbols are used and the explanation is omitted.

[0105] As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the connection adapter 220 includes, for example, an upper end pipe portion 221, a funnel-shaped portion (reduced flow path area portion) 224, a lower end pipe portion 226, and a second engagement portion (connection means) 212. Moreover, the upper end pipe section 221, the funnel-shaped section (reduced flow path area section) 224, and the lower end pipe section 226 are arranged in this order from top to bottom.

[0106] The upper end pipe portion 221 is disposed, for example, at the upper end portion of the connection adapter 220 and is formed to correspond to the cutting hole (opening portion) 208 . Furthermore, the upper end pipe portion 221 is formed with a flange portion 211F that corresponds to an upper surface flange portion 251 of a strainer member (a member disposed on the upper surface of the eaves gutter) 250, for example, toward the outer periphery in the radial direction. Further, on the inner circumferential surface of the upper end pipe portion 221, a second engagement portion (connection means) 212 is formed. Incidentally, the flange portion 211F and the second engaging portion (connecting means) 212 are similar to those in the first application example of the second embodiment, so they are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0107] The lower end pipe portion 226 is disposed at the lower end portion of the connection adapter 220 and is formed to correspond to the downspout 142 . Specifically, the lower end pipe portion 226 has a circular outer shape when viewed along the pipe axis direction, and its outer peripheral surface (outer diameter) is capable of being inserted into the inner peripheral surface (inner diameter) of the upper inlet 142A of the downspout 142.

[0108] The funnel-shaped section (reduced flow path area section) 224 is formed between the upper end pipe section 221 and the lower end pipe section 226, and is configured so that the flow path area decreases from the upper end pipe section 221 toward the lower end pipe section 226. In addition, the funnel-shaped portion (reduced flow area portion) 224 is formed, for example, in an approximately conical shape, and the cross-sectional shape (diameter in this embodiment) when viewed along the pipe axis direction gradually becomes smaller from the upper end pipe portion 221 to the lower end pipe portion 226.

[0109] A funnel-shaped portion (flow path area reduction portion) 224 has a lower end pipe portion 226 formed to have a larger diameter than the lower end pipe portion 216 according to the first application example of the second embodiment. Therefore, the funnel-shaped portion (flow path area reduction portion) 224 is formed so that, for example, the length in the tube axis direction is shorter than that of the funnel-shaped portion 214 according to the first application example. The material for forming the connection adaptor 220 is the same as that in the first application example of the second embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0110] [Third Application Example (Second Embodiment)] Hereinafter, a gutter connection structure according to a third application example of the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 5, 8A and 8B. As shown in Figures 5, 8A, and 8B, the gutter connection structure 203 relating to the third application example of the second embodiment includes, for example, a horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205, a connection adapter 230, a vertical gutter 143, and a strainer member (eaves gutter upper surface placement member) 250.

[0111] The cut hole (opening) 208 formed in the horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205 and the inlet 143A of the downspout 143 are connected by a connection adapter 230, so that rainwater flowing out from the horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205 flows into the downspout 143 via the connection adapter 230. In addition, the horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205 and the strainer member 250 are similar to those in the first application example of the second embodiment, and the vertical gutter 143 is similar to those in the third application example of the first embodiment, so the same symbols are used and the explanation is omitted.

[0112] As shown in Figures 8A and 8B, the connection adapter 230 has, for example, an upper end pipe portion 231, a stepped portion (reduced flow path area portion) 234, a lower end pipe portion 236, a slip-out prevention portion 137, and a second engagement portion (connection means) 212. The upper end pipe section 231, the stepped section (reduced flow path area section) 234, and the lower end pipe section 236 are arranged in this order from top to bottom.

[0113] The upper end pipe portion 231 is disposed, for example, at the upper end portion of the connection adapter 230 and is formed to correspond to the cutting hole (opening portion) 208 . Further, the upper end pipe portion 231 is formed with a flange portion 211F that corresponds to an upper surface flange portion 251 of a strainer member (a member disposed on the upper surface of the eaves gutter) 250, for example, toward the outer periphery in the radial direction. Further, a second engagement portion (connection means) 212 is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the upper end pipe portion 231. Incidentally, the flange portion 211F and the second engaging portion (connecting means) 212 are similar to those in the first application example of the second embodiment, so they are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0114] The lower end pipe portion 236 is disposed at the lower end portion of the connection adapter 230 and is formed to correspond to the downspout 143 . Specifically, the lower end pipe portion 236 has a circular outer shape when viewed along the pipe axis direction, and its outer peripheral surface (outer diameter) is capable of being inserted into the inner peripheral surface (inner diameter) of the upper inlet 143A of the downspout 143.

[0115] The slip-out prevention shape portions 237 are formed in two rows, one above the other, in the circumferential direction, for example, protruding from the outer circumferential surface of the lower end pipe portion 236. The slip-out prevention shape portions 237 are configured to prevent the lower end pipe portion 236 from slipping out of the downspout 143.

[0116] The step-shaped portion (reduced flow path area portion) 234 is formed between the upper end pipe portion 231 and the lower end pipe portion 236, and is configured so that the flow path area is reduced from the upper end pipe portion 231 toward the lower end pipe portion 236. In this embodiment, the step portion (flow path area reduction portion) 234 is formed by, for example, a flat surface facing the cut hole (opening) 208. The flow passage area is configured to decrease abruptly (in the pipe axis direction) from the upper end pipe portion 231 to the lower end pipe portion 236 . The material for forming the connection adaptor 220 is the same as that in the first application example of the second embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0117] According to the gutter connection structure 200 of the second embodiment, the upper end pipe portions 211, 221, 231 of the connection adapters 210, 220, 230 are formed to correspond to the cut hole (opening) 208 of the horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205, and the lower end pipe portions 216, 226, 236 are formed to correspond to the inlets 141A, 142A, 143A of the downpipes 141, 142, 143, and the flow path area reduces from the upper end pipe portions 211, 221, 231 toward the lower end pipe portions 216, 226, 236 at the flow path area reduction portions 214, 224, 234, so that the horizontal gutter (eaves gutter) 205 and the downpipes 141, 142, 143 can be easily and efficiently connected.

[0118] Furthermore, according to the gutter connection structure 200 of the second embodiment, the connection adapters 2, 220, 230 are provided with the second engagement portion 212 as a connection means, so that the first engagement portion 255 formed on the cylindrical portion 252 of the strainer member (eaves gutter upper surface placement member) 250 can be engaged with the second engagement portion 212 to easily and efficiently connect the upper end pipe portions 211, 221, 231 of the connection adapters 210, 220, 230 to the cutting hole (opening) 208. As a result, multiple types of downpipes 141, 142, 143 can be connected using a single type of strainer member (eaves gutter upper surface placement member) (eaves gutter upper surface placement member and downpipe upper end joint, etc.) 250, which makes it possible to reduce capital investment such as molds, and also reduces inventory related to connecting members and large logistics costs. Furthermore, since no special tools are required to connect the downspout to the eaves gutter, the connection work can be carried out efficiently.

[0119] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0120] For example, in the above embodiment, the case has been described where the diameter of the drop opening (opening) 108 formed in the funnel member 105 and the cut hole (opening) 208 of the horizontal gutter 205 are formed to be the maximum diameter with respect to the width dimension of the bottom plates 106, 206, but the diameter of the drop opening 108 and the cut hole 208 can be set arbitrarily. In addition, the shapes of the drop opening (opening) 108 and the cut hole 208 are not limited to being circular and may be set arbitrarily.

[0121] In the above embodiment, the gutter connection structures 100, 200 are described as using the downpipes 141, 142 with a circular cross section in plan view and the downpipe 143 with a substantially square cross section in plan view, but the cross section (shape, diameter) of the downpipe used in the gutter connection structures when viewed in plan view can be set arbitrarily. Also, the types of applicable downpipes and connection adapters are not limited to three types and can be set arbitrarily.

[0122] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the case has been described in which the connection adapters 110...230 are provided with the second engagement portions 112, 212 as a connecting means, and are connected to the funnel member 105 and the side gutter 205 by engaging with the first engagement portions 109, 255. However, it is possible to arbitrarily set whether or not to provide the first engagement portions 109, 255 and the second engagement portions 112, 212, and the funnel member 105 and the side gutter 205 and the connection adapters 110...230 may be connected using, for example, adhesives or mounting members (e.g., screw members) without using the first engagement portions 109, 255 and the second engagement portions 112, 212.

[0123] In addition, in the above embodiment, a case has been described in which the first engagement portions 109, 255 are formed on the outer peripheral surfaces of the protrusion 106T and the cylindrical portion 252, and the second engagement portions 112, 212 are formed on the inner peripheral surface of the upper end pipe portions 111...131 of the connection adapters 110...230. However, a configuration in which the first engagement portions 109, 255 are formed on the inner peripheral surfaces of the protrusion 106T and the cylindrical portion 252, and the second engagement portions 112, 212 are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the upper end pipe portions 111...131 of the connection adapters 110...230 may also be used.

[0124] In addition, in the above embodiment, the first engagement portions 109, 255 and the second engagement portions 112, 212 have two rows of protrusions that are complementary to each other and extend in the circumferential direction, and each protrusion has four protrusions with four notches formed at intervals. However, the configuration of the first engagement portions 109, 255 and the second engagement portions 112, 212 can be set arbitrarily, and the number of rows of protrusions, the number in the circumferential direction, the circumferential length, and the length of the notches can be set arbitrarily. It is composed of protruding parts arranged in two (multiple) rows in the tube axial direction protruding toward the outer periphery. In addition, the first engagement portions 109, 255 and the second engagement portions 112, 212 may be configured with a taper (e.g., a wedge structure) that is engaged in the axial direction of the pipe by rotating circumferentially, or in place of or in addition to the above configuration.

[0125] In the above embodiment, the first engagement portion 255 for connecting the connection adapters 210, 221, 23 to the horizontal gutter 205 is formed on the strainer member (member disposed on the upper surface of the eaves gutter) 250, but another member disposed on the upper surface of the eaves gutter may be used instead of the strainer member 250. Also, a downpipe upper end side joint may be used instead of the member disposed on the upper surface of the eaves gutter. In addition, in the above embodiment, a case has been described in which the cylindrical portion 252 of the strainer member 250 protrudes below the bottom plate 206 through the cut hole 208, but the cylindrical portion 252 may also be configured to be arranged on the upper surface of the cut hole 208.

[0126] In addition, in the above embodiment, the flow path area reduction portion of the connection adapters 110...230 is described as being a funnel-shaped portion 114, 124, 214, 224 or a step-shaped portion 134, 234, but it may be formed, for example, into a curved shape that is concave inward or bulges outward along the pipe axis direction.

[0127] In addition, within the scope of the invention, it is possible to replace the components in the above-described embodiments with well-known components, and the above-described embodiments may be combined as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0128] 100, 101, 102, 103, 200, 201, 202, 203 Gutter connection structure 105 Funnel parts (eaves gutter) 106 Bottom plate 106T protrusion 107 Side Panel 108 Drop hole (opening) 109 (first engagement part) 110, 120, 130 connection adapter 111, 121, 131 Upper end tube section 112 Second engagement portion 114, 124 Funnel-shaped portion (reduced flow area portion) 116, 126, 136 Lower end tube section 134 Step shape section (reduced flow area section) 141, 142, 143 Downpipe 205 Horizontal gutter (eave gutter) 206 Bottom plate 207 Side Panel 208 Cutting hole (opening) 250 Strainer parts (parts arranged on the top surface of the eaves gutter) 251 Upper flange 252 Cylindrical part 255 First engagement part 210, 220, 230 connection adapter 211, 221, 231 Upper end tube section 211F flange part 212 Second engagement portion 214, 224 Funnel-shaped portion (reduced flow area portion) 216, 226, 236 Lower end tube section 234 Step shape section (reduced flow area section)

Claims

1. a bottom plate, side plates extending upward from both ends of the bottom plate in the width direction, and an eaves gutter having an opening formed in the bottom plate; A downspout that allows rainwater flowing out of the eaves gutter to flow downward; A connection adapter that allows rainwater flowing from the opening of the eaves gutter to flow into the downspout; a strainer member connected to the connection adapter; Equipped with A gutter connection system that can connect an eaves gutter and a downspout, allowing rainwater to flow from the eaves gutter to the downspout through the connection adapter and the strainer member, the strainer member is formed smaller than the opening and has a first engaging portion connectable to the connection adapter; the connection adapter has a flow path area that decreases from the opening toward the downspout, and has a lower end pipe portion connectable to the downspout, and a second engaging portion connectable to the first engaging portion of the strainer member, The downspout has a flow path area smaller than that of the first engagement portion, and has a circular or substantially square cross section in a plan view, The gutter connection system has a plurality of connection adapters, each of which corresponds to one of the plurality of connection adapters and can connect downspouts having different cross-sectional areas.

2. The gutter connection system described in Claim 1, wherein the connection adapter is either a connection adapter that connects to a downspout having a circular cross section, or another connection adapter that connects to a downspout having an approximately square cross section.

3. The connection adapter is an upper end pipe portion having a peripheral surface formed to correspond to the opening; The gutter connection system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second engagement portion is provided on the upper end pipe portion.

4. A gutter connection system as described in Claim 3, wherein the flow path area is reduced between the upper end pipe portion and the lower end pipe portion toward the upper end pipe portion and the lower end pipe portion.

5. A gutter connection system as described in claim 3 or 4, having a step-shaped portion between the upper end pipe portion and the lower end pipe portion.

6. The strainer member has a cylindrical portion inserted into the opening, The gutter connection system according to claim 1 , wherein the first engagement portion is disposed on an outer surface of the cylindrical portion.

7. A gutter connection system as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion are screws.

8. A gutter connection system described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the lower end pipe portion is inserted into the downspout.

9. A gutter connection system described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the cross section of the downspout is different from the opening.

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