Hair trap for drain systems

Abstract

A hair trap for installation in a drain system having a drain outlet includes a body having a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, and a longitudinal axis. One or more elongate members extend in at least a direction radially outward relative to and along the longitudinal axis. A plurality of capture elements are positioned along a length of the one or more elongate members and are configured to interact with and capture hair and other debris moving through the drain outlet and into the drain pipe.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] Drains in both residential and commercial settings often face the persistent challenge of clogging caused by hair and debris. While numerous hair traps and debris traps exist, many designs fail to provide an effective and user-friendly solution. Conventional traps often capture debris at a single point within the drain system, allowing bypassed debris to accumulate further downstream, leading to blockages. Furthermore, these devices are often difficult to clean, aesthetically unappealing, and may impede normal water flow, exacerbating maintenance issues. Some prior art solutions, such as chain-based hair traps, suffer from issues such as tangling, displacement during use, and difficulty in cleaning. These traps often rely on dangling chains that are prone to entanglement or dislodgement, leading to inconsistent performance, blockages, and an unsightly appearance.

[0002] There is therefore a need for a hair trap that is more convenient and effective, while also better promoting normal flow rates through drain systems.SUMMARY

[0003] Embodiments of the present disclosure provides hair traps that offer enhanced performance, usability, and aesthetic integration in a drain system having a drain outlet arranged for connection to a drain pipe. The hair trap can include a body having a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, and a longitudinal axis. One or more elongate members extend in at least a direction radially outward relative to and along the longitudinal axis. A plurality of capture elements are positioned along a length of the one or more elongate members and are configured to interact with and capture hair and other debris moving through the drain outlet and into the drain pipe

[0004] Unlike prior art, the hair traps of the present disclosure can capture debris at multiple radial and / or longitudinal points along the drain's flow path and within a drain pipe, minimizes clogging risks, and maintains compliance with plumbing code flow requirements. Additionally, hair traps of the present disclosure can provide for easy installation and removal without tangling, significantly reducing the inconvenience associated with cleaning and maintenance. The hair traps can also provide a concealed design that operates unobtrusively, preserving the visual appeal of the surrounding area while improving the overall efficiency and longevity of the drainage system.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] References will be made to embodiments of the disclosure, examples of which may be illustrated in the accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the disclosure is generally described in the context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure to these particular embodiments. Items in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0006] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a hair trap according to an embodiment.

[0007] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the hair trap of FIG. 1 being installed in a drain system according to an embodiment.

[0008] FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of the hair trap of FIG. 1 installed in a drain system according to an embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 3A is a schematic view of the hair trap of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the hair trap of FIG. 1.

[0011] FIG. 5 is a partial detail view of the hair trap of FIG. 1.

[0012] FIG. 6 is another partial detail view of the hair trap of FIG. 1.

[0013] FIG. 7 is a view of the hair trap of FIG. 1 being installed in a drain system according to another embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 8 shows alternative shapes for the various capture elements of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a hair trap according to another embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 10 is another perspective view of the hair trap of FIG. 9.

[0017] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the hair trap of FIG. 9.

[0018] FIG. 12 is another perspective view of a plurality of hair traps of FIG. 9.

[0019] FIG. 13 is a perspective of view of plurality of hair traps according to another embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 14 is a partial cutaway view of a drain system with the hair trap of FIG. 13 installed according to an embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a hair trap according to another embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 15A is a top view of the hair trap of FIG. 15.

[0023] FIG. 15B is a partial detailed view of the hair trap of FIG. 15.

[0024] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a hair trap according to another embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 16A is a top view of the hair trap of FIG. 16 installed in a pipe according to an embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a hair trap installed in a pipe member according to another embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 17A is a side view of the hair trap of FIG. 17.

[0028] FIG. 17B is a top perspective view of the hair trap of FIG. 17.

[0029] FIG. 17C is a top view of the hair trap of FIG. 17.

[0030] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a hair trap according to another embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 18A is a partial detailed view of the hair trap of FIG. 18.

[0032] FIG. 18B is another perspective view of the hair trap of FIG. 18 according to an embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 18C is another perspective view of the hair trap of FIG. 18 according to an embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 18D is another perspective view of the hair trap of FIG. 18 according to an embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 18E is a top view of the hair trap of FIG. 18 according to an embodiment.

[0036] The drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale, but instead are drawn to provide a better understanding of the components, and are not intended to be limiting in scope, but to provide example illustrations. The figures illustrate example configurations of hair traps and drain systems, and in no way limit the structures or configurations of a hair trap, a drain system, and components according to the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS

[0037] A better understanding of different embodiments of the disclosure may be had from the following description read with the accompanying drawings in which like reference characters refer to like elements.

[0038] While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, certain illustrative embodiments are in the drawings and are described below. It should be understood, however, there is no intention to limit the disclosure to the specific embodiments disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention covers all modifications, alternative constructions, combinations, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

[0039] It will be understood that unless a term is expressly defined in this application to possess a described meaning, there is no intent to limit the meaning of such term, either expressly or indirectly, beyond its plain or ordinary meaning. For the purposes of this disclosure, semi-rigid refers to components that are capable of maintaining their structural integrity and shape during installation and use but can flex to accommodate variations in drain pipe dimensions or to facilitate insertion, positioning, or removal within a drain system.

[0040] The disclosure describes various embodiments of a hair trap that offers enhanced performance, usability, and aesthetic integration. These embodiments include hair traps for use in both linear and point drain systems. The hair trap comprises a body having a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, and a longitudinal axis.

[0041] The one or more elongate members extend in at least a direction radially outward relative to and along the longitudinal axis. A plurality of capture elements are positioned along the length of the one or more elongate members and are configured to interact with and capture hair and debris as they flow from the drain system. The capture elements can be distributed along the one or more elongate members to ensure that the hair trap effectively collects hair and other debris at multiple flow points within the drain outlet and inside the drain pipe. Optionally, the hair trap can include an anchoring portion located toward the proximal end that is configured to secure the hair trap within the drain outlet and / or a drain pipe.

[0042] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide the benefit of making it easier to clean and maintain the drain outlet and drain pipe by creating multiple, redundant capture points along flow paths leaving the drain outlet. Furthermore, the hair trap operates unobtrusively, as it can be concealed within the drain system and remain in situ. This reduces the frequency of cleaning while improving the overall flow performance of the drain system.

[0043] Referring now to FIGS. 1-7 , an exemplary hair trap 100 include a body 102 and one or more elongate members 106 having a semi-rigid configuration in at least a distal end portion 103 of the body 102. The hair trap 100 can be a unitary piece of plastic. In an embodiment, the hair trap 100 can comprise a durable and flexible polypropylene (PP) material, metal, combinations thereof, or any other suitable material. In other embodiments, the one or more elongate members 106 can have a rigid configuration.

[0044] Optionally, an anchoring portion 104 at a proximal end portion 101 of the body 102 can be configured to anchor the hair trap 100 inside of a drain outlet configured to be connected to a drain pipe and / or the drain pipe. For example, the anchoring portion 104 can be configured to interact with or couple the hair trap 100 to a portion of a drain system such that the position of the body 102 relative to a length of the drain pipe is substantially fixed. This beneficially allows the hair trap 100 to be left in situ during use of the drain system without the hair trap being undesirably transported into the drain pipe by water flowing through the drain system. In an embodiment, the anchoring portion 104 can couple the body 102 to an underside of a cover of the drain system such that the hair trap 100 is entirely concealed within the drain system, improving the aesthetics of the drain system and associated wet floor area. In yet other embodiments, the anchoring portion 104 can comprise a handle that allows a user to easily grip the hair trap 100, facilitating manual installation and / or removal of the hair trap 100 from the drain system.

[0045] In an embodiment, the one or more elongate members 106 comprises a first elongate member 108 having a semi-rigid configuration and a second elongate member 110 spaced from the first elongate member 108 and having a semi-rigid configuration. A plurality of capture elements 112 are positioned along a length of the first and second elongate members 108, 110. The plurality of capture elements 112 are configured to interact with and capture hair and other debris that pass through the drain system into the drain outlet. The plurality of capture elements 112 can advantageously help the hair trap 100 pinch or grasp hair between the one or more elongate members 106 and the plurality of capture elements 112, preventing the hair from slithering down the one or more elongate members 106

[0046] In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of capture elements 112 includes a plurality of prongs 114. The plurality of prongs 114 angle from the first elongate member 108 or second elongate member 110 outward and upward toward the anchoring portion 104, defining openings 116 between the plurality of prongs 114 and the elongate members 108, 110 to capture hair and other debris flow into the drain outlet and drain pipe. The plurality of prongs 114 are distributed along a length of the first and second elongate members 108, 110, helping ensure that the hair trap 100 effectively collects hair and other debris at multiple flow points within the drain outlet and along the drain pipe. This also beneficially makes it easier to clean and maintain the drain outlet and drain pipe by creating multiple, redundant capture points along the flow path of fluid moving through the drain outlet and drain pipe. Unlike chain hair traps, the one or more elongate members 106 with the plurality of capture elements 112 advantageously helps ensure secure placement of the hair trap 100 within the drain system and more effective debris collection without the risk of tangling or displacement.

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of prongs 114 include four prongs on the first elongate member 108 and four prongs on the second elongate member 110, with the prongs of each elongate member 108, 110 being vertically aligned. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the plurality of prongs 114 can include two, three, five or any other number of suitable prongs and the prongs 114 on each elongate member 108, 110 can be vertically staggered or offset from one another. Optionally, the plurality of capture elements 112 includes a plurality of secondary elements 118 extending from the first and second elongate members 108, 110 in a generally perpendicular direction relative to the plurality of prongs 114. The plurality of secondary elements 118 can interact with and help capture hair and other debris that moves along the one or more elongate members 106 in front of or behind the plurality of prongs 114, improving hair and debris removal of the hair trap 100. The plurality of secondary elements 118 are shown comprising a plurality of post members but can be any other suitable member.

[0048] Referring still to FIG. 1, the first and second elongate members 108, 110 can at least extend in a direction radially outward relative to and along a longitudinal axis Ll of the body 102. For instance, the first and second elongate members 108, 110 can have a forked or split configuration. For instance, the first elongate member 108 can include a first portion 120 extending radially outward and downward from the anchoring portion 104, and a second portion 122 extending generally downward from the first portion 120. The second elongate member 110 includes a first portion 124 extending radially outward from the first elongate member 108 and the anchoring portion 104 and downward from the anchoring portion 104, and a second portion 126 extending generally downward from the first portion 124. Such a configuration spaces the first and second elongate members 108, 110 and the plurality of capture elements 112 apart in the drain outlet and / or drain pipe, enlarging the removal coverage of the hair trap 100. It also reduces the overall width of the hair trap 100 toward the anchoring portion 104 and the drain outlet, helping to reduces the likelihood of clogging or backflow in the drain outlet. For example, narrowing the hair trap 100 toward the anchoring portion 104 helps ensure that there is more open space within or toward the drain outlet, allowing water to flow more freely around and through the hair trap 100. This reduces the likelihood of water pooling or stagnating, which often leads to backflow problems.

[0049] According to an embodiment, the second portions 122, 126 extend slightly outward such that the hair trap 100 defines an overall width that is greatest toward or at the distal end portion of the second portion 122 of the first elongate member 108 and the distal end portion of the second portion 126 of the second elongate member 110, the distal end portion 103 having a round end shape. This configuration allows the first elongate member 108 and the second elongate member 110 to flex inward from the relaxed configuration of the hair trap 100 and more easily slide upon engagement with the inner diameter of the drain pipe, helping the hair trap 100 to move or pull itself into the drain pipe upon advancement by a user. In an embodiment, flexion of the first elongate member 108 and the second elongate member 110 toward the relaxed configuration can force the first elongate member 108 and the second elongate member 110 against an inner diameter or sidewall of the drain pipe when the hair trap 100 is installed, helping to maintain a location of the hair trap 100 within the drain pipe.

[0050] While the hair trap 100 is described including two elongate members, it will be appreciated that the hair trap 100 can include three, four, or any other number of suitable elongate members.

[0051] FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate the installation of the hair trap 100 into a drain system 10 according to an embodiment. In use, a user can attach the anchoring portion 104 to a cover 12 of the drain system 10. The user can then grip the hair trap 100 and / or the cover 12 and install the hair trap 100 into the drain system 10. The hair trap 100 can be installed by introducing the second portion 122 of the first elongate member 108 and the second portion 126 of the second elongate member 110 into an access hole 14 with the cover 12 removed and sliding or translating the hair trap 100 into the access hole 14 and a drain outlet 16. This translational movement can continue until the one or more elongate members 106 enter a drain pipe 18 attached to the drain outlet 16, and the cover 12, coupled to the anchoring portion 104, is positioned over the access hole 14. As the hair trap 100 moves through the drain system 10, the one or more elongate members 106 and the one or more prongs 114 can bend and flex against the drain outlet 16 and the drain pipe 18, facilitating the installation of the hair trap 100 in the drain system 10. The plurality of capture elements 112 are distributed along the one or more elongate members 106 inside of the drain pipe 18, helping to ensure that the hair trap effectively collects hair and other debris at multiple flow points within the drain outlet 16 and / or along the drain pipe 18. This beneficially makes it easier to clean and maintain the drain outlet 16 and drain pipe 18 by creating multiple, redundant capture points along the flow paths through the drain system 10. Furthermore, the hair trap 100 operates unobtrusively, as it can be concealed within the drain system 10 and remain in situ. This reduces the frequency of cleaning while improving the overall flow performance of the drain system 10.

[0052] As seen in FIGS. 3 and 3A, an overall width of the hair trap 100 can increase from a proximal end portion 101 of the body 102 at W1 toward the distal end portion 103 of the body 102 at W2. The variable overall width of the hair trap 100 allows the hair trap 100 to be narrower toward the proximal end portion 101 and the drain outlet 16, helping to reduces the likelihood of clogging or backflow in the drain outlet 16. It also allows the hair trap 100 to be wider toward the distal end portion 103 such that the hair trap 100 can locate the plurality of capture elements 112 toward the sidewall of the drain pipe 18, where hair and other debris migrate as they move through the drain pipe 18. For instance, the hair trap 100 can be resiliently flexible and biased toward a relaxed configuration. In an embodiment, the one or more elongate members 106 can be forced together upon entry of the drain pipe 18 and resiliently flex back toward the relaxed configuration against an inner diameter or sidewall of the drain pipe to help maintain a location of the hair trap 100 within the drain pipe and locate at least some of the plurality of capture elements 112 toward the sidewall of the drain pipe 18. Hair and other debris flowing through a drain pipe are known to move toward the sidewall due to slower flow velocity near the sidewall and turbulence that pushes the hair and other debris outward. Additionally, bends or slopes in the pipe and adhesion to residue on the sidewall further can encourage hair to accumulate along the sidewall.

[0053] The variable overall width of the hair trap 100 also can allow the hair trap 100 to capture hair and other debris across a greater width of the drain pipe 18. As best seen in FIG. 3A, the semi-rigid configuration of the one or more elongate members 106 can help direct and position the one or more elongate members 106 between a center area of the drain pipe 18 and the opposing sidewalls of the drain pipe such that the hair trap 100 effectively spans the substantial width of the pipe as hair and other debris flows along a length of the hair trap 100 toward the distal end portion 103. Moreover, the hair trap 100 can catch debris at different distances from the pipe center and flow points through the drain pipe 18, helping to maintain fluid flow through the drain pipe 18.

[0054] The hair trap 100 can thus help catch hair and other debris that passes through the drain system 10, without tangling or significantly obstructing flow of water through the drain outlet 16 and without disturbing aesthetics of an overlying tile floor 20. The hair trap 100 is arranged to be removable by pulling it out of the drain system 10, allowing a user periodically to lift the hair trap 100 out of the drain system 10 to replace the hair trap 100. Alternatively, the user can remove hair (and other debris) and clean the hair trap 100, then reinstall the hair trap 100 in the drain system 10. The hair trap 100 can be removed via the access hole 14 by removing the cover 12 and upward movement of the hair trap 100 relative to the drain system 10. The hair trap thus simplifies maintenance of the drain system with a structured configuration that is easier to clean and install than known prior art hair traps. The hair trap 100 disclosed herein can be used with drain systems having different configurations.

[0055] According to a variation, the hair trap 100 can have cross-sectional area along any length of the hair trap 100 postionable in a drain pipe that is selected to maintain a minimum flow area M through the drain pipe 18. Referring to FIG. 4, building and plumbing codes often specify minimum flow areas in drain and other pipes to ensure safety and functionality. The minimum flow area M is designed to safely accommodate peak usage and minimize the risk of drain system failures. To help ensure that minimum flow areas are maintained many pipes are constructed with a tolerance T that provides additional flow area in addition to the minimum flow area M. For instance, a 2-inch drain pipe may be constructed with a diameter of two inches plus the tolerance T to account for potential foreign materials in the pipe while still meeting the minimum flow are requirements. Many prior art debris traps are unable to be positioned in a drain pipe because the cross sectional area of the debris trap within the drain pipe would violate the minimum flow area of the pipe or the debris trap may become tangled inside of the drain pipe, which can lead to blockages, inefficient drainage, foul odors, damage, and non-compliance with plumbing codes. As such, prior art debris traps are generally unsuitable for use inside a drain pipe or designed for use in a drain system before the debris reaches a drain outlet. In an embodiment, the hair trap 100 has a maximum cross sectional area through the elongate members 108, 110 and / or the plurality of capture elements 112 selected to be less than the area of the tolerance T of the drain pipe 18, advantageously allowing the hair trap 100 to be installed and used in the drain pipe 18 without violating the minimum flow area M. For example, the hair trap 100 can have a maximum cross-sectional area inside the drain pipe 18 that is less than about 8:100, or less than about 7:100, of the flow area through the drain pipe 18.

[0056] FIG. 5 shows a detail view of one of the plurality of capture elements 112 according to an embodiment. As seen, at least one of the plurality of capture elements 112 can comprise a prong 114 having a tine-like shape including an arm portion 125 angled upward and away from the elongate member 108 and extending to a rounded point. An opening 123 is defined between the arm portion 125 and the elongate member 108 that can catch or hook hair and other debris that pass through the drain outlet. The base 127 of intersection of the elongate member 108 and the arm portion 125 can be angular. This advantageously can help the hair trap 100 pinch or grasp hair in the base 127, preventing the hair from slithering down the one or more elongate members 106. It can also help capture or hold hair and other debris in the opening 123. The arm portion 125 can have a length defined between the base 127 and the end of the arm portion 125 that is sized and configured to help interact with and capture hair and other debris between the prong 114 and the elongate member 108 in the opening 123. The angle between the arm portion 125 and the elongate member 108 can also be configured to help interact with and capture hair and other debris.

[0057] The plurality of capture elements 112 can include a secondary element 118 extending generally normal or perpendicular relative to the prong 114. The secondary element 118 can comprise a post member 128 protruding or extending from the front and / or back of the elongate member 108 and arranged to interact with and help capture hair and other debris that passes in front of or behind the prong 114, enhancing hair and debris removal of the hair trap 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the post member 128 is located below the base 127 of the prong 114.

[0058] FIG. 6 illustrates the anchoring portion 104 according to an embodiment. The anchoring portion 104 can comprise a connecting plate 130 defining a side-entry slot 132 sized and configured to interact with a connector attached to a component of the drain system. For instance, a shaft associated with a knob or fastener head can be slide into the side-entry slot 132 such that the knob or head is positioned below the connecting plate 130, securing the connecting plate 130 and in turn the hair trap 100 to the component of the drain system, such as a cover, and prevent translation of the hair trap 100 downward away from the cover. The connecting plate 130 is shown having a generally U shape but can have any suitable shape. In an embodiment, the opening of the side-entry slot 132 can have rounded corners to help position or slide the connector in the side-entry slot 132. While the anchoring portion 104 is shown comprising the connecting plate 130, it should be appreciated that the anchoring portion 104 can comprise one or more magnets, suction cups, hook members, locking rings, or any other suitable anchoring portion.

[0059] It will be appreciated that two hair traps 100, 100A can be installed in the drain system 10 as shown in FIG. 7, one extending in a first direction from the cover 12 into the drain system 10 and the other extending in the same general direction from the cover 12 and rotated about 90 degrees about the longitudinal axis L1 of the hair trap 100. As such, the hair traps 100 can run more than two elongate members through the drain outlet and drain pipe 18, enhancing the ability of the hair traps 100 to remove hair and other debris that enter the drain system 10.

[0060] FIG. 8 shows alternative shapes for the one or more of the plurality of capture elements 112 of the present disclosure. For example, a capture element can have a cross-sectional U-shape 112A, L-shape 112B, rounded hook-hope 112C, curved shape 112D, W-shape 112E, or any other suitable cross-sectional shape.

[0061] FIGS. 9-11 show another exemplary embodiment of a hair trap 200 comprising a body 202 and one or more elongate members 206 having a semi-rigid configuration in or toward a distal end portion of the body 202, as described herein. Optionally, an anchoring portion 204 at or toward a proximal end 201 of the body 102 can be configured to cooperate with a cover or plug of a drain system to locate and store the hair trap 200 in the drain outlet and / or the drain pipe. Like in other embodiments, a plurality of capture elements 212 are positioned along a length of the one or more elongate members 206, helping ensure that the hair trap 200 effectively collects hair and other debris at multiple flow points within the drain outlet and along the drain pipe. This also beneficially makes it easier to clean and maintain the drain outlet and drain pipe by creating multiple, redundant capture points along the flow path of fluid moving through the drain outlet and drain pipe.

[0062] The plurality of capture elements 212 can comprise a plurality of prongs 114 configured to interact with and capture hair and other debris that pass through a drain system into a drain outlet. The plurality of prongs 214 can include tines angled upward toward the anchoring portion 204 and defining openings between the prongs 214 and the one or more elongate members 206 to capture hair and other debris. As discussed above, the hair trap 200 can be formed of plastic, metal, rubber, and / or any other suitable material and the capture elements 212 can have different configurations. The hair trap 200 can have a resiliently flexible construction.

[0063] Like in other embodiments, the one or more elongate members 206 can have a slender configuration, extending below the anchoring portion 204 for easy installation in a drain outlet and / or a drain pipe. As shown, the one or more elongate members 206 can include a partial slit 234 running from a distal end portion 203 along a length of the hair trap 200 and defining a first elongate member 208 and a second elongate member 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the partial elongate member can define one or more breakage points 236 for selectively separating the first elongate member 208 and the second elongate member 210 upon application of a target force to one of the elongate members. The first elongate member 208 and the second elongate member 210 are shown separated in FIG. 10. In an embodiment, at least one of the first elongate member 208 and the second elongate member 210 can extend in at least a direction radially outward relative to and along a longitudinal axis L2 of the body 202 or hair trap 200. The one or more breakage points 236 can be weaker than the remainder of the hair trap 200 so that a user can apply a force to the hair trap 200 and cause the first elongate member 208 and the second elongate member 210 to separate as shown in FIG. 10. According to an embodiment, the one or more breakage points 236 can comprise snap features that selectively lock the first elongate member 208 and the second elongate member 210 together. In other embodiments, the first elongate member 208 and the second elongate member 210 can remain attached after installation.

[0064] According to a variation, the hair trap 200 can have a plastic configuration allowing the user to form the hair trap 200 into different shapes by bending and / or twist the one or more elongate members 206, helping the hair trap 200 to be installed in and work with different drain systems and / or other applications. For example, the hair trap 200 having a plastic configuration can be shaped by a user to have a shape like the hair trap 100. In other embodiments, the hair trap 200 having a plastic configuration can be shaped by a user to have a diamond-like shape, a helical shape, or any other suitable shape.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 11, the hair trap 200 can have a maximum cross sectional area through the elongate members 208, 210 and / or the plurality of capture elements 212 selected to be less than the area of a tolerance a of a drain pipe, advantageously allowing the hair trap 200 to be installed in the drain pipe without violating or impediing the minimum flow area of the drain pipe. For example, the hair trap 200 can have a maximum cross-sectional area inside the drain pipe that is less than about 8:100, less than about 7:100, or less than about 6:10, of the flow area through the drain pipe.

[0066] FIG. 12 shows multiple hair traps molded in halves and in a connected condition. Large groups of hair traps 200 could be molded simultaneously for efficiency and for convenience of the packaging and handling of the hair traps 200. When the hair traps 200 are to be used, the individual halves of the hair traps 200 can be broken away and snapped together via one or more snap features.

[0067] FIGS. 13-14 show another exemplary embodiment of a hair trap 300 comprising a body 302 and one or more elongate members 306 having a semi-rigid configuration at or toward a distal end portion 303 of the body 302, as described herein.

[0068] The body 302 can comprise a generally flat member including the one or more elongate members 306 formed in the distal end portion 303 of the body 302 for easy installation in a drain outlet 56 and / or a drain pipe 58. As shown, the body 302 can include a partial slit 334 running upward through the distal end portion 303 along a length of the hair trap 300 and defining a first elongate member 308 and a second elongate member 310. The partial slit 334 can permit the first elongate member 308 and the second elongate member 310 to move independently of one another inside of the drain pipe 58 such that hair and other debris can be captured between the first elongate member 308 and the second elongate member 310 and / in one or more of the plurality of notches 314.

[0069] Optionally, the hair trap 300 can include an anchoring portion 304 at or toward a proximal end portion 301 of the body 302. The anchoring portion 304 can cooperate with a cover or plug 52 of a drain system 50 to locate and store the hair trap 300 in the drain outlet 56 and / or the drain pipe 58. The anchoring portion 304 can comprise a tab member 338 extending at an angle from the body 302. The tab member 338 can define an opening 340 configured to interact with a grooved projection 60 extending from a bottom of the cover or plug 52. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 340 can comprise a slotted opening., facilitating injection and securement of the projection 60 in the opening 340.

[0070] Like in other embodiments, a plurality of capture elements 312 are positioned along a length of the one or more elongate members 306, helping ensure that the hair trap 300 effectively collects hair and other debris at multiple flow points within the drain outlet 56 and along the drain pipe 58. This also beneficially makes it easier to clean and maintain the drain outlet 56 and drain pipe 58 by creating multiple, redundant capture points along the flow path of fluid moving through the drain outlet 56 and drain pipe 58.

[0071] The plurality of capture elements 312 can comprise a plurality of notches 314 configured to interact with and capture hair and other debris that pass through the drain system 50 into a drain outlet 56. The notches 314 can extend along an inner edge of the one or more elongate members 306 and angled upward toward the anchoring portion 304 and defining openings in the one or more elongate members 306 to capture hair and other debris. The hair trap 300 can be formed of plastic, metal, rubber, and / or any other suitable material and the capture elements 312 can have different configurations. The hair trap 200 can have a resiliently flexible construction. FIG. 13 shows that the hair traps 300 can be selectively nested for packaging and handling convenience.

[0072] In use, a user can attach the anchoring portion 304 to the cover 52 of the drain system 50 and the user can grip the hair trap 300 and / or cover 52 and install the hair trap 300 into the drain system 50. The hair trap 300 can be installed in the drain system 10 by introducing the one or more elongate members 306 into an access hole 54 with the cover 52 removed and sliding or translating the hair trap 300 into the access hole 54 and drain outlet 56. This translational movement can be continued until the one or more elongate members 306 enter a drain pipe 58 attached to the drain outlet 56 and the cover 52, coupled to the anchoring portion 304, is positioned over the access hole 54. As the hair trap 300 moves through the drain system 50, the one or more elongate members 306 can bend and flex against the drain outlet 56 and the drain pipe 58, helping to facilitate installation of the hair trap 300 in the drain system 10. As seen, the hair trap 300 can be fully concealed inside of the drain system 50 during use. This allows the hair trap 300 to remain in situ during use of the drain system 50 and improves the overall visual appearance of the drain system 50. Again, the hair trap 300 ensures secure placement of the hair trap 300 within the drain system 50, effective hair and debris collection without the risk of tangling and is easier to clean and reinstall than known prior art hair traps.

[0073] FIGS. 15-15B illustrate a hair trap 400 according to another embodiment. It will be appreciated that the hair trap 400 can include any of the features described herein. Referring to FIG. 15, the hair trap 400 can comprise a body 402 and one or more elongate members 406 having a semi-rigid configuration at or toward a distal end portion 403 of the body 402, as described herein. Like in other embodiments, a plurality of capture elements 412 can be positioned along a length of the one or more elongate members 406, helping ensure that the hair trap 400 effectively collects hair and other debris at multiple flow points within a drain outlet and along a drain pipe. In the illustrated embodiment, the body 402 has a split or forked configuration with a first elongate member 408 and a second elongate member 410. Optionally, the hair trap 400 can include an anchoring portion 404 at or toward a proximal end portion 401 of the body 402 configured to secure the hair trap 400 within a drain outlet and / or the drain pipe connected to the drain outlet.

[0074] In an embodiment, the hair trap 400 can move or flex between a storage configuration 400A and a deployed configuration 400B. In an embodiment, the hair trap 400 can be configured such that a user can move or flex the hair trap 400 from the storage configuration 400A toward the deployed configuration 400B. In the storage configuration, at least one of the first elongate member 408 and the second elongate member 410 can extend in at least a direction radially outward relative to the body 402 along a linear or substantially linear path. According to an embodiment, the first elongate member 408 and the second elongate member 410 of the hair trap 400 can be substantially flattened or substantially coplanar in the storage configuration 400A, advantageously facilitating shipping and or packaging of the hair trap 400.

[0075] In the deployed configuration 400B, at least one of the first elongate member 408 and the second elongate member 410 can extend in at least a direction radially outward relative to and along a longitudinal axis LA of the body 402. In an embodiment, at least one of the first elongate member 408 and the second elongate member 410 spiral or curve around or about the longitudinal axis L4 of the body 402 (shown in FIG. 15B) in the deployed configuration. In an embodiment, at least one of the first elongate member 408 and the second elongate member 410 can spiral downward from the body 402 or the proximal end portion 401 in the deployed configuration. The hair trap 400 can help sweep or remove hair and other debris located at or toward the sidewall of the inside of a drain pipe when in the deployed configuration. Further, the hair trap 400 can help improve flow through the drain outlet and drain pipe because the plurality of capture elements 412 are non-coplanar or distributed along a length of the drain pipe, which, in turn, help reduce damming inside of the drain pipe caused by captured debris in a common plane. In an embodiment, both the first elongate member 408 and the second elongate member 410 can spiral downward from the proximal end portion 401 about the longitudinal axis L. The deployed configuration 400B of the first elongate member 408 and the second elongate member 410 can be a helix, a logarithmic spiral, an Archimedean spiral, or another spiral shape or path.

[0076] In the illustrated embodiment, at least one of the first elongate member 408 and the second elongate member 410 can have a wavy or undulating configuration, improving fluid flow between the drain pipe and the one or more elongate members 406. In other embodiments, the first elongate member 408 and the second elongate member 410 can be not wavy and / or extend in a constant direction. For example, the first elongate member 408 and the second elongate member 410 can be straight, twisted, flat, curved, or in any other shape.

[0077] According to a variation, the one or more elongate members 406 can be molded or formed in the storage configuration 400A. While still hot or more easily deformable, the one or more elongate members 406 can be positioned in a loading member such that the first elongate member 408 and the second elongate member 410 move toward the deployed configuration 400B, spiraling downward and / or forming waves along the inner diameter of the loading member 450. The loading member can be sized and configured to fit inside an access hole or other opening of a drain system such that the loading member can be inserted in the drain system and then the hair trap 400 can be deployed from the loading member into the drain outlet and / or the drain pipe. The first elongate member 408 and the second elongate member 410 can then unfurl to press against the sidewall or inner diameter of the drain pipe. This effectively allows the plurality of capture elements 412 to sweep or capture hair and other debris moving or located toward the sidewall and at different flow points along the length of the drain pipe while maintaining a center area of the drain pipe more open, helping to maintain flow through the pipe. In an embodiment, the loading member can comprise a clear plastic tube having an outer diameter that is smaller than a diameter of the access hole. In other embodiments, an installer can move, flex, or plastically deform or shift the hair trap 400 from the storage configuration 400A toward the deployed configuration 400B by twisting or applying torsion to the first elongate member 408 and / or the second elongate member 410.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of capture elements 412 comprise a plurality of notches 414 configured to interact with and capture hair and other debris. The plurality of notches 414 can extend in different directions along the first elongate member 408 and / or the second elongate member 410. The base of one or more of the notches 414 can be angular. This advantageously can help the hair trap 400 pinch or grasp hair in the notch 414, preventing the hair from slithering down the hair trap 400. In other embodiments, the plurality of capture elements 412 can comprise the spiraling shape of the first elongate member 408 and / or the second elongate member 410 around and down into the drain pipe.

[0079] Like in other embodiments, the hair trap 400 can have a maximum cross sectional area through the elongate members 408, 410 and / or the plurality of capture elements 412 selected to be less than the area of a tolerance a of a drain pipe, advantageously allowing the hair trap 400 to be installed in the drain pipe without violating or impeding the minimum flow area of the drain pipe. For example, the hair trap 400 can have a maximum cross-sectional area inside the drain pipe that is less than about 8:100, less than about 7:100, or less than about 6:10, of the flow area through the drain pipe.

[0080] FIGS. 16 and 16A show a hair trap 500 according to another embodiment. The hair trap 500 comprises a body 502 with an optional anchoring portion 504 at or near its proximal end and one or more elongate members 506 with a semi-rigid configuration at or near its distal end, as described herein. Like other embodiments, a plurality of capture elements 512 are positioned along the length of the one or more elongate members 506, ensuring that the hair trap 500 effectively collects hair and other debris at multiple flow points within a drain outlet and along a drain pipe. The anchoring portion 504 can be configured to secure the hair trap 500 within a drain outlet and / or the drain pipe connected to the drain outlet.

[0081] In an embodiment, the hair trap 500 can move, flex, or plastically shift between a storage configuration and a deployed configuration like in other embodiments. For example, the hair trap 500 can be configured such that a user can move, flex, or plastically deform the hair trap 500 from the storage configuration toward the deployed configuration. In the deployed configuration show in FIGS. 16 and 16A, the body 502 has a split or forked configuration with a first elongate member 508 and a second elongate member 510, both extending along a spiraling path from the proximal end toward the distal end. This deployed configuration helps the hair trap 500 sweep or remove hair and other debris from the sidewall of the drain pipe 60 while maintaining a center area of the drain pipe 60 more open. The waves in the first and second elongate members 508, 510 can also create and maintain flow paths between the sidewall of the drain pipe 60 and the first and second elongate members 508, 510.

[0082] Additionally, the spiraling elongate members 508, 510 enhance flow through the drain outlet and drain pipe 60 as shown in FIG. 16A by ensuring that the capture elements 512 are non-coplanar and distributed along the length of the drain pipe. This reduces the risk of damming, which can occur when captured debris accumulates in a single plane. The spiraling configuration of the first and second elongate members 508, 510 may take the form of a helix, a logarithmic spiral, an Archimedean spiral, or another spiral or abounding shape.

[0083] FIGS. 17-17C show a hair trap 600 according to yet another embodiment. The hair trap 600 can include any of the features described herein. As seen, the hair trap 600 comprises a body 602 with an optional anchoring portion 604 at or near its proximal end and one or more elongate members 606 with a semi-rigid configuration at or near its distal end, as described herein. The anchoring portion 604 can be configured to secure the hair trap 600 within a drain outlet and / or the drain pipe connected to the drain outlet. In the illustrated embodiment, the anchoring portion 604 is configured to secure the hair trap 600 within a drain outlet.

[0084] In an embodiment, the one or more elongate members 606 can include a first portion having a tubular and / or supporting configuration and second portion extending from the first portion that is less rigid than the first portion. For example, the one or more elongate members 606 can include a first elongate member 608 including a first portion having a tubular configuration and a second portion extending from the first portion, and a second elongate member 610 including a first portion having a tubular or supporting configuration and a second portion extending from the first portion.

[0085] A plurality of capture elements 612 are positioned along the length of at least one of the first elongate member 608 and second elongate member 610, helping the hair trap 600 to more effectively collect hair and other debris at multiple flow points within a drain outlet and along the drain pipe 60A. One or more of the capture elements 612 can have an angular or V-shaped configuration. For example, one or more of the capture elements 612 can comprise an angular notch formed in an upper edge of the elongate member. This advantageously can help the hair trap 600 pinch or grasp hair in one or more of the capture elements 612, preventing the hair from slithering down the one or more elongate members 606. It can also help capture or hold hair and other debris in the capture elements 612. According to an embodiment, a distal end surface of one or more of the elongate members 608, 610 can be substantially uninterrupted or continuous, facilitating installation of the hair trap 600 in the drain pipe 60A.

[0086] Similar to other embodiments, the hair trap 600 can be arranged to move, flex, or plastically shift between a storage configuration and a deployed configuration. For example, the hair trap 600 can be configured such that a user can move, flex, or plastically deform the hair trap 600 from the storage configuration toward the deployed configuration In the deployed configuration, the hair trap 600 can be configured to be loaded inside of a drain pipe 60A as best shown in FIG. 17. A longitudinal axis L6 can extend in a direction between the proximal end and distal end of the body 602. In an embodiment, the body 602 can have a split or forked configuration with at least one of the first elongate member 608 and the second elongate member 610 extending at least in a direction radially outward and along the longitudinal axis L6 of the body 602. For instance, at least one of the first elongate member 608 and the second elongate member 610 can spiral around or about the longitudinal axis L6 and downward relative to the anchoring portion 604. In an embodiment, at least one of the first elongate member 608 and the second elongate member 610 is configured to position adjacent ones of the capture elements 612 at different radial and longitudinal positions within the drain pipe 60A when the hair trap 600 is in the deployed configuration. For instance, the first and second elongate members 608, 610 can extend along a spiraling path around the longitudinal axis L6 from a proximal end toward a distal end with the capture elements 612 distributed along a length of the first and second elongate members 608, 610. This spiraling configuration can vary the location of the capture elements 612 to help the hair trap 600 sweep or remove hair and other debris from the sidewall of the drain pipe 60A while maintaining a center area of the drain pipe 60A more open.

[0087] As best seen in FIGS. 17B and 17C, the hair trap 600 can define at least one primary flow path 614 toward a center of the drain pipe 60A, and the first and second elongate members 608, 610 create and maintain at least one secondary flow path 616 between the sidewall of the drain pipe 60A and the first and second elongate members 608, 610. The at least one primary flow path 614 can be located toward the center of the drain pipe 60A and radially inside of at least one of the first elongate member 608 and the second elongate member 610. The at least one primary flow path 614 can be located radially along the longitudinal axis L6. The at least one primary flow path 614 can be located between the longitudinal axis L6 and at least one of the first elongate member 608 and the second elongate member 610. The at least one primary flow path 614 can be located between the first elongate member 608 and the second elongate member 610.

[0088] The at least one primary flow path 614 can be located radially inward relative to the at least one secondary flow path 616 inside the drain pipe 60A. For instance, the first and second elongate members 608, 610 can have a wavy configuration with a plurality of peaks 618 and a plurality of valleys 620 defining a plurality of gaps forming at least part of the at least one secondary flow path 616 between the sidewall of the drain pipe 60A and the first and second elongate members 608, 610. This configuration advantageously provides flow paths running through and around the first and second elongate members 608, 610 toward the sidewall, helping to maintain flow through the drain pipe 60A and more effectively catch debris such as hair that tends to cling to and migrate toward the flow boundary between the sidewall of the drain pipe 60A and fluid moving through the drain pipe 60A. Further, space can be maintained and defined by the hair trap 600 on the inside and outside of the first and second elongate members 608, 610 allowing hair and other debris to wrap around and more easily catch on the capture elements 612.

[0089] In an embodiment, one or more of the plurality of peaks 618 can resiliently engage the sidewall of the drain pipe 60A, helping to maintain the position of the hair trap 600 within the drain pipe 60A. For instance, the resilient engagement between the one or more of the plurality of peaks 618 and the sidewall of the drain pipe 60A can at least in part maintain a vertical position of the hair trap 600 within the drain pipe 60A. In other embodiments, two or more of the plurality of peaks 618 can resiliently engage the sidewall at different vertical points or points along the longitudinal axis L6 or a length of the drain pipe 60A, helping to maintain the vertical position and / or radial position of the hair trap 600 within the drain pipe 60A.

[0090] Additionally, the spiraling elongate members 608, 610 can help enhance flow through the drain outlet and pipe by ensuring that the capture elements 612 are non-coplanar and distributed along the length of the drain pipe. For instance, the capture elements 612 are located at different positions along substantially an entire length L and along substantially an entire diameter or width D of a capture area A inside the drain pipe 60A (best shown in FIG. 17A). This reduces the risk of damming, which can occur when captured debris accumulates in a single plane. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second elongate members 608, 610 can spiral in a clockwise direction. In other embodiments, the first and second elongate members 608 and 610 can spiral in opposite direction. The spiraling configuration of the first and second elongate members 608, 610 may take the form of a helix, a logarithmic spiral, an Archimedean spiral, or another spiral or abounding shape.

[0091] FIGS. 18-18E show a hair trap 700 according to yet another embodiment. The hair trap 700 can include any of the features described herein. The hair trap 700 comprises a body 702 and one or more elongate members 706 with a semi-rigid configuration at or near its distal end. Optionally, an anchoring portion 704 can be configured to secure the hair trap 700 within a drain outlet and / or drain pipe connected to the drain outlet. In the illustrated embodiment, the anchoring portion 704 is located toward a proximal end portion 701 of the body 702 and configured to secure the hair trap 700 within a drain pipe 70A (as shown in FIG. 18D). For example, the anchoring portion 704 can include one or more arms 726 extending radially from a proximal end portion 701 of the body 702. The one or more arms 726 can have at least one first plate 728 and at least one second plate 730. The one or more arms 726 can be sized and arranged such that the at least one first plate 728 interfaces with a sidewall of a drain pipe and the at least one second plate 728 interface with an end surface of the drain pipe, securing the vertical and lateral position of the hair trap 700 inside the drain pipe.

[0092] In an embodiment, the one or more elongate members 706 can include a first portion having a tubular and / or supporting configuration and second portion extending from the first portion that is less rigid than the first portion. For example, the one or more elongate members 706 can include a first elongate member 708 including a first portion having a tubular configuration and a second portion extending from the first portion, and a second elongate member 710 including a first portion having a tubular or supporting configuration and a second portion extending from the first portion.

[0093] A plurality of capture elements 712 are positioned along the length of at least one of the first elongate member 708 and the second elongate member 710, helping the hair trap 700 to more effectively collect hair and other debris at multiple flow points within a drain outlet and along the drain pipe 70A. One or more of the plurality of capture elements 712 can have an angular or V-shaped configuration. For example, one or more of the plurality of capture elements 712 can comprise an angular notch formed in an upper edge of the elongate member. This advantageously can help the hair trap 700 pinch or grasp hair in one or more of the plurality of capture elements 712, preventing the hair from slithering down the one or more elongate members 706. It can also help capture or hold hair and other debris in the plurality of capture elements 712. According to an embodiment, a distal end surface of one or more of the elongate members 708, 710 can be substantially uninterrupted or continuous, facilitating installation of the hair trap 700 in the drain pipe 70A. Optionally, the hair trap 700 can include a post 736 at a proximal end portion of the hair trap 700. The post 736 can be configured to help an installer or user move or turn the hair trap 700 before, during, or after installation of the hair trap 700 in a drain system.

[0094] Similar to other embodiments, the hair trap 700 can be arranged to move, flex, or plastically shift between a storage configuration (shown in FIG. 18) and a deployed configuration (shown in FIG. 18C). For instance, the hair trap 700 can be arranged such that a user or installer can plastically deform the hair trap from the storage configuration toward the deployed configuration. In the storage configuration, at least one of the first elongate member 708 and the second elongate member 710 can extend in at least a direction radially outward relative to the body 702 along a linear or substantially linear path. According to an embodiment, the hair trap 700 can be substantially flattened or substantially planar in the storage configuration, advantageously facilitating shipping and or packaging of the hair trap 700. In an embodiment, the first elongate member 708 and the second elongate member 710 can be substantially coplanar when the hair trap is in the storage configuration.

[0095] In an embodiment, at least one of the first elongate member 708 and the second elongate member 710 is configured to position adjacent ones of the capture elements 712 at different radial and longitudinal positions within the drain pipe 70A when the hair trap 700 is in the deployed configuration. A longitudinal axis L7 can extend in a direction between the proximal end and distal end of the body 702. In the deployed configuration, at least one of the first elongate member 708 and the second elongate member 710 can extend in at least a direction radially outward relative to and along the longitudinal axis L7 of the body. For example, at least one of the first elongate member 708 and the second elongate member 710 can spiral or curve around or about the longitudinal axis L7 of the body 702 (shown in FIG. 18C). In an embodiment, at least one of the first elongate member 708 and the second elongate member 710 can spiral downward from the body 702 and the proximal end portion 701 in the deployed configuration. The hair trap 700 can help sweep or remove hair and other debris located at or toward the sidewall of the inside of a drain pipe when in the deployed configuration. Further, the hair trap 700 can help improve flow through the drain outlet and drain pipe because the plurality of capture elements 712 are non-coplanar or distributed along a length of the drain pipe (e.g., drain pipe 70A in FIG. 18D), which, in turn, help reduce damming inside of the drain pipe caused by captured debris in a common plane.

[0096] In the illustrated embodiment, the first elongate member 708 and the second elongate member 710 can have a wavy or undulating configuration, improving fluid flow between the drain pipe and the one or more elongate members 706 when the hair trap 700 is in the deployed configuration. In other embodiments, the first elongate member 708 and the second elongate member 710 can be not wavy and / or extend in a constant direction. For example, the first elongate member 708 and the second elongate member 710 can be straight, twisted, flat, curved, or in any other shape.

[0097] In an embodiment, the hair trap 700 can be arranged such that an installer or user can manually move the hair trap 700 from the storage configuration toward the deployed configuration. For instance, at least one of the first elongate member 708 and the second elongate member 710 define an opening 732 at or near the distal end. The opening 732 can be sized and configured to receive a tool 734 to move the first elongate member 708 or the second elongate member 710 from the storage configuration toward the deployed configuration. The tool 734 can comprise a dowel, post, lever, or any other suitable tool that when inserted in the opening 732 can be manipulated by a user or installer to twist or torque at least one of the first elongate member 708 and the second elongate member 710 to move the hair trap 700 from the storage configuration (shown in FIG. 18B) toward the deployed configuration (shown in FIG. 18C). It will be appreciated that hair trap 700 can be formed of a durable and flexible polypropylene (PP) material or any other suitable material that allows the hair trap 700 to be plastically deformed or reshaped into the deployed configuration.

[0098] An exemplary method of installing the hair trap 700 can include a step of providing the hair trap 700 in the storage configuration. Another step can include inserting the tool 734 in the opening 732. Another step can include manipulating the tool 734 to torsion or twist at least one of the first elongate member 708 and the second elongate member 710 to move the hair trap 700 toward or into the deployed configuration. Another step can include inserting the hair trap 700 in or near the deployed configuration into a pipe member 70A as seen in FIG. 18D. As seen, the plates 730 of the anchoring portion 704 engage with the sidewall of the drain pipe 70A and the plates 728 engage with the end of the drain pipe 70A to secure the vertical and lateral or radial position of the hair trap 700 in the deployed configuration within the drain pipe 70A as seen in FIG. 18D.

[0099] FIGS. 18D and 18E show the hair trap 700 installed in the drain pipe 70A in the deployed configuration according to an embodiment. As seen, the hair trap 700 can define at least one primary flow path 714 toward a center of the drain pipe 70A, and the first and second elongate members 708, 710 can create and maintain at least one secondary flow path 716 between the sidewall of the drain pipe 70A and the first and second elongate members 708, 710. The at least one primary flow path 714 can be located radially along the longitudinal axis L7. The at least one primary flow path 714 can be located between the longitudinal axis L7 and at least one of the first elongate member 708 and the second elongate member 710. The at least one primary flow path 714 can be located between the first elongate member 708 and the second elongate member 710. The at least one primary flow path 714 can be located radially inward relative to the at least one secondary flow path 716 inside the drain pipe 70A. For instance, the first and second elongate members 708, 710 can have a wavy configuration with a plurality of peaks 718 and a plurality of valleys 720 defining a plurality of gaps forming at least part of the at least one secondary flow path 716 between the sidewall of the drain pipe 70A and the first and second elongate members 708, 710. This configuration advantageously provides flow paths running through and around the first and second elongate members 708, 710 toward the sidewall, helping to maintain flow through the drain pipe 70A and more effectively catch debris such as hair that tends to cling to and migrate toward the flow boundary between the sidewall of the drain pipe 70A and fluid moving through the drain pipe 70A. Further, space can be maintained and defined by the hair trap 700 on the inside and outside of the first and second elongate members 708, 710 allowing hair and other debris to wrap around and more easily catch on the capture elements 712.

[0100] In an embodiment, one or more of the plurality of peaks 718 can resiliently engage the sidewall of the drain pipe 70A, helping to maintain the position of the hair trap 700 within the drain pipe 70A. For instance, the resilient engagement between the one or more of the plurality of peaks 718 and the sidewall of the drain pipe 70A can at least in part maintain a vertical position of the hair trap 700 within the drain pipe 70A. In other embodiments, two or more of the plurality of peaks 718 can resiliently engage the sidewall at different points along the longitudinal axis L7 or a length of the drain pipe 70A, helping to maintain the vertical position and / or radial position of the hair trap 700 within the drain pipe 70A.

[0101] In other embodiments, hair traps of the present disclosure can include one or more elongate members comprising a central column or support having a semi-rigid configuration and a plurality of projections that can be snapped onto or attached to the central column. In other embodiments, the hair trap of the present disclosure can include one or more elongate members can comprise a single elongate member configured to spiral about a longitudinal axis of the hair trap in a deployed configuration. In other embodiments, the plurality of branch members can comprise a plurality of branch members attached to the central column to help prevent relative rotation between the branch member and the central column. The plurality of branch members can be positioned on the central column such that the plurality of branch members extend into different areas or quadrants along a length of the drain pipe and / or sweep hair and other debris from a sidewall or inner diameter of the drain pipe. One or more of the plurality of branch members can have an irregular or bifurcated configuration. In other embodiments, one or more of the plurality of branch members can have a curved, slightly wavy, tapered, zigzagging, spiraled, and / or twisted configuration.

[0102] While certain embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail, with reference to specific configurations, parameters, components, elements, etcetera, the descriptions are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the claimed invention. For example, while the anchoring portion is described herein in other embodiments the anchoring portion can be omitted, and the hair trap can be loaded into or attached to a drain outlet and / or drain pipe via other means. While the one or more elongate members are described as being semi-rigid. In other embodiments, the hair trap or the one or more elongate members can have a rigid configuration. For instances, the hair trap or the one or more elongate members can be sized and rigidly configured to operate within a drain body or drain pipe have specific dimensions.

[0103] Furthermore, it should be understood that for any given element of component of a described embodiment, any of the possible alternatives listed for that element or component may generally be used individually or in combination with one another, unless implicitly or explicitly stated otherwise.

[0104] In addition, unless otherwise indicated, numbers expressing quantities, constituents, distances, or other measurements used in the specification and claims are to be understood as optionally being modified by the term “about” or its synonyms. When the terms “about,”“approximately,”“substantially,” or the like are used in conjunction with a stated amount, value, or condition, it may be taken to mean an amount, value or condition that deviates by less than 20%, less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 1%, less than 0.1%, or less than 0.01% of the stated amount, value, or condition. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

[0105] Any headings and subheadings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims.

[0106] It will also be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,”“an” and “the” do not exclude plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, an embodiment referencing a singular referent (e.g., “widget”) may also include two or more such referents.

[0107] It will also be appreciated that embodiments described herein may also include properties and / or features (e.g., ingredients, components, members, elements, parts, and / or portions) described in one or more separate embodiments and are not necessarily limited strictly to the features expressly described for that particular embodiment. Accordingly, the various features of a given embodiment can be combined with and / or incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, disclosure of certain features relative to a specific embodiment of the present disclosure should not be construed as limiting application or inclusion of said features to the specific embodiment. Rather, it will be appreciated that other embodiments can also include such features.

Claims

1. A hair trap for installation in a drain system having a drain outlet arranged for connection to a drain pipe, the hair trap comprising:a body having a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, and a longitudinal axis;one or more elongate members extending in at least a direction radially outward relative to and along the longitudinal axis; anda plurality of capture elements positioned along a length of the one or more elongate members, the plurality of capture elements configured to interact with and capture hair and other debris moving through the drain outlet and into the drain pipe.

2. The hair trap of claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more elongate members have a semi-rigid configuration arranged to position adjacent ones of the capture elements at different radial and longitudinal positions within the drain pipe.

3. The hair trap of claim 1, wherein one or more elongate members spiral about the longitudinal axis.

4. The hair trap of claim 1, wherein the plurality of capture elements are distributed along the one or more elongate members to capture hair and other debris at multiple flow points within the drain pipe.

5. The hair trap of claim 1, wherein the hair trap is arranged to move from a storage configuration toward a deployed configuration in which the one or more elongate members spiral about the longitudinal axis.

6. The hair trap of claim 5, wherein the one or more elongate members comprise a first elongate member and a second elongate member, wherein the first elongate member and the second elongate member are substantially coplanar in the storage configuration.

7. The hair trap of claim 1, wherein the one or more elongate members define at least one primary flow path toward a center of the drain pipe and at least one secondary flow path between the one or more elongate members and a sidewall of the drain pipe when the hair trap is installed in the drain pipe.

8. The hair trap of claim 1, wherein the one or more elongate members have a wavy configuration with a plurality of peaks and plurality of valleys defining a plurality of gaps between the one or more elongate members and a sidewall of the drain pipe.

9. The hair trap of claim 8, wherein one or more of the plurality of peaks resiliently engage the sidewall of the drain pipe to at least in part maintain a vertical position of the hair trap within the drain pipe.

10. The hair trap of claim 9, wherein two or more of the plurality of peaks resiliently engage the sidewall of the drain pipe at different vertical points along the longitudinal axis of the body to at least in part maintain a vertical position of the hair trap within the drain pipe.

11. The hair trap of claim 1, wherein the plurality of capture elements comprise notches formed along a length of the one or more elongate members.

12. The hair trap of claim 1, wherein the one or more elongate members comprise a first elongate member and a second elongate member.

13. The hair trap of claim 12, wherein the first elongate member and the second elongate member are resiliently flexible and configured to position the plurality of capture elements toward a sidewall of the drain pipe.

14. The hair trap of claim 1, further comprising an anchoring portion located toward the proximal end portion and configured to secure the hair trap within the drain outlet.

15. The hair trap of claim 1, further comprising an anchoring portion located toward the proximal end portion to secure the hair trap within the drain pipe.

16. A hair trap for installation in a drain system having a drain outlet arranged for connection to a drain pipe, the hair trap comprising:a body having a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, and a longitudinal axis:one or more elongate members extending in at least a direction radially outward relative to and along the longitudinal axis; anda plurality of capture elements positioned along a length of the one or more elongate members, the plurality of capture elements configured to interact with and capture hair and other debris moving through the drain outlet and into the drain pipe, wherein the one or more elongate members are resiliently flexible and configured to position the plurality of capture elements toward a sidewall of the drain pipe.

17. The hair trap of claim 16, wherein the one or more elongate members spiral about the longitudinal axis.

18. The hair trap of claim 16, wherein at least one of the one or more elongate members is configured to position adjacent ones of the plurality of capture elements at different radial and longitudinal positions within the drain pipe.

19. The hair trap of claim 16, wherein the one or more elongate members define at least one primary flow path toward a center of the drain pipe and at least one secondary flow path between the one or more elongate members and a sidewall of the drain pipe when the hair trap is installed in the drain pipe.

20. A hair trap for installation in a drain system having a drain outlet arranged for connection to a drain pipe, the hair trap comprising:a body having a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, and a longitudinal axis:one or more elongate members extending in at least a direction radially outward relative to and along the longitudinal axis, the one or more elongate members having a semi-rigid configuration; anda plurality of capture elements positioned along a length of the one or more elongate members, the plurality of capture elements configured to interact with and capture hair and other debris moving through the drain outlet and into the drain pipe, wherein at least one of the one or more elongate members is configured to position adjacent ones of the plurality of capture elements at different radial and longitudinal positions within the drain pipe.

Images