Drain valve device

Abstract

Disclosed is a drain valve device configured for selective installation within a drainage pipe of a plumbing system in order to improve flow while mitigating against backflow and one or more from among pathogens, gases, odours and pests within the plumbing system. The device incorporates at least one mitigation assembly for enhancing mitigation against pathogens, gases, odours and pests within the plumbing system.

Description

“DRAIN VALVE APPARATUS” BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The subject matter of this patent application relates generally to drainage devices and more particularly to drain valves configured as a siphon sealing protection device for removable installation within floor, sink and other drains of a plumbing system.

[0002] The following description includes information that may be helpful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any specific or implicitly referenced publication is prior art.

[0003] Applicant hereby incorporates by reference any and all patents and published patent applications cited or referred to in this application to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent with or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.

[0004] For reference, a variety of drains are employed in commercial and residential plumbing contexts, essentially configured to remove or allow the flow of water or other fluids from a basin or surface and to a downstream waste fluid system. Most of these drains, whether in the floor, in a sink, or similar, are annular with a flange that sits flush with the surface in which the drain hole is formed and with a body or throat extending downward from the surface of the drain hole and the drain flange that is in fluid communication with a drain pipe connected to the drain opposite its flange. It spans the drain opening and is therefore somewhat coplanar with the drain flange or Below the drain throat, a perforated cover or strainer is often formed to prevent injury or the entry of foreign objects or debris into the drain, while still allowing fluid flow.

[0005] Specifically, floor drains, which are effectively plumbing fixtures installed in the floor of a structure designed to remove any standing water from the surrounding area, typically range in size from two to six inches in internal diameter, with four inches being the most common, though sometimes as large as ten to twelve inches or more. These floor drains can be used in residential settings, particularly in basements, such as near hot water heaters or appliances like washing machines, but are more commonly part of commercial plumbing systems in bathrooms, locker rooms, or shower rooms, such as in gyms and similar facilities, kitchens, cooler areas, laundry facilities, such as in laundromats and in hotels and apartment buildings, and in pool decks and pump rooms.In facilities such as hospitals and clinics, the performance of any of these wastewater plumbing and drainage systems and the prevention or mitigation of backflow or the escape of pathogens, gases, odors, and pests through a siphon seal protection device is even more critical.

[0006] Typically, a trap is created within the piping or pipe downstream of a drain to prevent sewer gases and even insects from traveling through the drain and into the interior space. This is unsightly and even poses health risks due to pathogens and other harmful substances that can lodge in drain lines and plumbing systems. However, these traps are only marginally effective and, in some applications, simply do not comply with plumbing codes. In fact, particularly in the case of urinal drains, sanitation codes require urinals and other drains to provide a seal to contain gases and odors that develop in the drainage system. Typical seals include the well-known P-traps or S-traps, in which A residual portion of the flush water forms a seal that effectively blocks odors downstream of the siphon seal. However, because the upstream portion of the drain pipe or system above the siphon seal freely communicates with the environment, frequent flushing is often necessary to eliminate residual urine and prevent any odors emanating from the siphon seals. And because of the need for frequent flushing, large amounts of water are often consumed, which can be problematic, especially in areas with limited or no access to water.“Waterless” or “water-free” urinals are becoming necessary as a result of growing concern about limiting unnecessary water use, and therefore, with a growing emphasis on water conservation, there is a growing interest in toilets and urinals designed to minimize the amount of water used, but which must still address concerns regarding gases, odors, pathogens, and pests that travel up and down the drain.

[0007] Various forms of drain valves for use in sinks, including kitchen sinks with garbage disposals, in floor drains, and in waterless urinals, each allowing the passage of wastewater and other fluids up, down, or through the valve, while simultaneously preventing or mitigating the passage of wastewater, as in a backflow or backpressure situation, or gases, odors, pests, etc., from rising through the valve, are known essentially as one-way valves, including duckbill valves, umbrella valves, float valves, check valves, and skirt valves. Examples of such drain valves are shown in U.S. Patent No. 1,137,516 to Moon, issued April 27, 1915, entitled "Sewer Trap," and in U.S. Patent No. 4,088,149 to Logsdon, issued May 9, 1978, entitled "Check Valve Structure for Use in Drains." In US Patent No.No. 4,180,875 to Wilson issued January 1, 1980, and entitled “Urine Disposal Bypass Unit,” in U.S. Patent No. 4,712,574 to Perrott issued December 15, 1987, and entitled “Vacuum-Breaking Valve for Pressurized Fluid. Lines”, in U.S. Patent No. 6,401,266 to Mitchell et al., issued June 11, 2002, and entitled “Waste Outlet Device”, in U.S. Patent No. 10,458,106 to Benesh et al., issued October 29, 2019, and entitled “Waterless Trap”, and in U.S. Patent No. 11,384,853 to Noll et al., issued July 12, 2022, and entitled “Backflow Prevention and Method of Manufacture”.

[0008] Most notably, Fima's U.S. Patent No. 7,900,288, issued March 8, 2011, titled "Drain Cartridge Having Removable Valved System," discloses various embodiments of a cartridge for regulating fluid flow, including an upper compartment and a user-removable insert from the upper compartment. The cartridge may include one or more valves that are bypassed in a closed position to prevent odors from escaping from the cartridge, and may also include a fluid trap that is at least partially disposed within or fluidly coupled to the cartridge. A U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20210101158, issued April 8, 2021, titled "Skirt Valve for Kitchen Sink, and Method of Disposing of Food," discloses apparatus, systems, and methods in which a valve mechanism is incorporated into a drain to reduce or prevent the emission of noise or food fragments from an operating garbage disposal.The valve mechanism is typically a skirt-shaped valve tilted to a closed position, placed inside a compartment and inserted into a drain so that food or fluid passes through the valve to a downstream grinding device. After the food or liquid passes through the valve, it closes.

[0009] While several of these earlier drainage devices aim to solve the same problem of allowing wastewater and other fluids, even those containing debris, to pass through the valve from above, such as in the context of a sink, floor drain, or urinal, while also blocking, preventing, or mitigating the backflow of any of these fluids, as well as the escape of related odors, gases, pathogens, pests, and even noise, with some of these devices even functioning to mitigate such problems to some extent. point or with some success, improvements are still needed, particularly in connection with the mitigation strategy for related odors, gases, pathogens, pests and even noise, as noted.

[0010] Aspects of the present invention meet these needs and provide additional related advantages as described in the following summary. SUMMARY

[0011] Aspects of the present invention teach certain benefits in construction and use that give rise to the exemplary advantages described below.

[0012] The present invention solves the problems described above by providing a new and improved drain valve apparatus. In at least one embodiment, a drain valve apparatus is disclosed and configured for selective installation within a drain pipe of a plumbing system to improve flow while mitigating backflow and one or more pathogens, gases, odors, and pests within the plumbing system.

[0013] Other objects, features and advantages of aspects of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of aspects of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] A drain valve apparatus configured for use as a siphon seal protection device within a plumbing system comprising a valve housing having a housing proximal end and an opposing housing distal end with a passage therebetween, the valve housing comprising a valve housing wall defining the passage and having a housing outer surface and an opposing housing inner surface; a valve housing support positioned within the passage between the housing proximal end and the housing distal end, the valve housing support having at least one support arm having a contoured proximally facing surface, and extending inwardly from the inner surface of the valve housing wall and terminating centrally within the passageway in an axially oriented posterior valve housing receiver having a tapered axial surface; and a posterior valve housing having a valve collar receiver and extending distally from the posterior valve housing receiver;a skirt valve having a resilient bell-shaped valve body distally terminating at a distal end of the valve and having a proximal valve collar having a valve collar port configured for receipt in the valve collar receiver upon operative installation of the skirt valve in the posterior valve housing, such that the distal end of the valve seats against a valve seat portion of the inner wall of the valve housing proximal to the distal end of the housing, whereby the skirt valve is protected by the valve housing wall and selectively seals the passage;a resilient outer gasket installed on the outer surface of the valve housing wall opposite the valve housing support, the outer gasket configured to accommodate and seal within a drain pipe of the plumbing system when the drain valve apparatus is inserted therein;and a mitigation assembly suspended from the valve housing when the drain valve apparatus is inserted into the drain pipe of the plumbing system, the mitigation assembly comprising a material including one or more of a bioremediation agent, an insect-reducing substance, and a deodorizer, whereby after insertion of the drain valve apparatus into the drain pipe, the outer gasket and the skirt-shaped valve cooperate in mitigating against the backflow and escape of pathogens, gases, odors, and pests from within the plumbing system while permitting improved flow through the drain valve apparatus; within the drain pipe, and further so that the mitigation assembly is functionally operable to further mitigate against one or more pathogens, gases, odors, and pests within the plumbing system.

[0015] The tapered proximal surface comes to a proximally oriented point.

[0016] The posterior valve housing is formed having a distal threaded boss; a mitigation assembly cap is threadedly installed on the distal threaded boss of the posterior valve housing; and the mitigation assembly cord is attached to the mitigation assembly cap spaced from the mitigation assembly body. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] The accompanying drawings illustrate aspects of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of the drain valve apparatus, with the drain valve apparatus in a first operational mode, in accordance with at least one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 2 is a reduced-scale cross-sectional view thereof, installed in a drain and including an optional bioremediation device attached to the back valve compartment plug.

[0020] Figure 3 is a reduced-scale cross-sectional view thereof installed in a drain and including an alternative optional bioremediation device coupled to the back valve housing.

[0021] Figure 4 is a reduced-scale cross-sectional view thereof installed in a drain and including an optional alternative bioremediation device coupled to the rear valve housing.

[0022] The figures described above illustrate aspects of the invention in at least one of its exemplary embodiments, which are further defined in detail in the following description. Features, elements, and aspects of the invention that are referenced by the same numerals in different figures represent the same, equivalent, or similar features, elements, or aspects, according to one or more embodiments. More generally, those skilled in the art Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the drawings are schematic in nature and should not be taken literally or to scale in terms of material configurations, sizes, thicknesses, and other attributes of an apparatus in accordance with aspects of the present invention and its components or features, unless specifically set forth herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The following discussion provides many examples of embodiments of the subject matter of the invention. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, the subject matter of the invention is considered to include all possible combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus, if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B and D, then the subject matter of the invention is also considered to include other combinations of A, B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed.

[0024] Although the subject matter of the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative embodiments, certain illustrated embodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the invention to any specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the subject matter of the invention should encompass all modifications, alternative embodiments, and equivalents that fall within the scope of the claims.

[0025] Drain valve apparatus 20 comprises a valve housing 30, a skirt-shaped valve 90 operatively installed to selectively seal within valve housing 30, and an external gasket 100 installed in valve housing 30 to sealingly install drain valve apparatus 20. As a starting point, it will be appreciated that such drain valve apparatus 20 may assume a number of forms, shapes, or configurations in addition to those shown, beginning with the annular features and general configuration, so that, unless otherwise indicated, such are to be understood as illustrative and not limiting. Even so, it will be appreciated that in most applications, and certainly in connection with typical plumbing applications, such drains and pipes with which a drain valve apparatus 20 in accordance with aspects of the present invention will interface are annular, and thus the drain valve apparatus 20, and particularly its features for engaging, sealing, or otherwise contacting such annular plumbing fittings and components, are also annular.

[0026] By way of further illustration and not limitation, in typical plumbing applications, such drains or drainpipes may have a nominal inside diameter in the range of one and a quarter inches (1.25 inches) to six inches (6 inches) or larger, with floor drains specifically generally ranging nominally from two to six inches (2-6 inches) in inside diameter, with four inches (4 inches) being most common. For relatively smaller sized drains or drainpipes, and therefore drain valve apparatus 20, such as nominally three inches (3 inches) and below, the valve housing support 50 for the skirt-shaped valve 90 positioned within the valve housing 30 may comprise a support arm 52, and for relatively larger sized drains or drainpipes, and therefore drain valve apparatus 20, such as larger than three inches (3 inches).), the valve housing support 50 for the skirt-shaped valve 90 positioned within the valve housing 30 may comprise two support arms 52, although again those skilled in the art will appreciate that such configurations of the valve housing support 50 are merely exemplary, and that relatively smaller drain valve apparatus 20 may further have two or more support arms 52, and relatively larger drain valve apparatus 20 may ultimately have one or more support arms 52, and any two or more support arms 52 may be in any orientation or angular position relative to one another and not necessarily one hundred eighty degrees (180°) apart.

[0027] In a little more detail regarding exemplary embodiments of a drain valve apparatus 20 in accordance with aspects of the present invention, the relatively rigid valve housing 30 has an upper mouth or housing proximal end 32 and an opposing valve seat adjacent the housing distal end 34 with an axial flow passage 36 therebetween through the valve housing 30. The valve housing 30 itself comprises a substantially annular valve housing wall 40 having an inner surface 42 that effectively defines the flow passage 36, including the lower valve seat portion of the housing distal end 34 proximal inner surface 42, more about which is said further below, and an opposing outer surface 46 on which is seated or installed the outer gasket 100.

[0028] In exemplary embodiments, the outer surface 46 of the valve housing is formed having circumferential ribs 48 configured to engage corresponding circumferential grooves 108 formed in the inner surface 106 of the outer gasket 100 for better retention of the outer gasket 100 in the valve housing 30, whether the outer gasket 100 is formed separately and installed in the valve housing 30 or is overmolded in the valve housing 30 or otherwise. And the outer surface 102 of the outer gasket 100 is formed with one or more radially outwardly extending resilient circumferential flanges 104, which will be appreciated for compliance and sealing against the drain or pipe in which the drain valve apparatus 20 is installed, more about which is said below.Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, on the one hand, such resilient flanges 104 thereby accommodate a degree of variation in the inside diameter (size and roundness) of the drain or pipe, so that the nominal inside diameters and thus the sizes of the drain valve apparatus 20 mentioned above are just that (nominal), and the specific drain valve apparatus 20 can thus selectively and sealingly fit drains and pipes above and. below such nominal sizes, depending on a number of factors. Likewise, it will be appreciated that the wider or greater the radial extent of one or more of these flanges 104, the greater the variety of drain or pipe sizes that can be accommodated. By way of illustration and not limitation, the width of flanges 104 is typically on the order of a quarter inch (0.25 in.), meaning that the nominal outside diameter or circumference of flanges 104 is approximately one-half inch (0.5 in.) larger than the nominal outside diameter of outer gasket 100 and the wall of valve housing 40 axially below or distal to outer gasket 100, resulting in a capacity of drain valve apparatus 20, at a given nominal size, to accommodate a variety of drains or pipes approximately plus or minus a quarter inch (+ / - 0.25 in.), for example.And if a wider drain or pipe size range is desired for a single drain valve apparatus 20, one or more of the circumferential joint flanges 104 may be relatively wider, such as one-half inch (0.5 in.) or more, it being appreciated that in all such scenarios, the thickness and spacing of the flanges 104 and the type of material of the outer gasket 100 are also factors in the pipe size range in which a given drain valve apparatus 20 may be practically installed.

[0029] In certain plumbing contexts where the pipe below a drain or fitting is in fact larger than the drain opening, it will be appreciated that by having flexible and resilient gasket flanges 104 radially outside of the valve housing 30 and the valve housing wall 40, in particular, the drain valve apparatus 20 can be pushed through the relatively smaller drain opening or mouth and into the relatively larger diameter pipe below, with the size or larger outer diameter of the relatively rigid valve housing wall 40 being the functional limitation of the installation. In any event, in a further exemplary embodiment of a drain valve apparatus 20 and its outer gasket 100, according to In some aspects of the present invention, the upper or nearest flange 104 may be slightly larger than any other flanges 104 further down along the joint 100 so that the relatively larger upper flange 104 may accommodate more fully into the mouth or opening of a drain, rather than the drain valve apparatus 20 being pushed further into the drain below its mouth. Each of these drain valve apparatuses 20 and its valve housing 30 and valve housing wall 40 specifically may have a nominal height of two inches (2 inches) to accommodate securely within most drains and pipes.Again, a variety of such configurations of a drain valve apparatus 20, in accordance with aspects of the present invention, including its outer gasket 100, for selectively accommodating and sealing the drain valve apparatus 20 within a drain or pipe, are possible in accordance with aspects of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope thereof.

[0030] Referring to FIG. 1, illustrating the internal features of exemplary embodiments of a drain valve apparatus 20 in accordance with aspects of the present invention, it is first observed that the interior surface 42 of the valve housing wall 40 of the valve housing 30 has a somewhat inwardly curved or convex shape between the upper or proximal end 32 and the opposite lower or distal end of the housing 34, more pronounced, in fact, at the upper mouth and lower valve seat, which shape of the interior wall surface 42 will serve to enhance flow through the drain valve apparatus 20 as if having a Venturi effect and thus serve to effectively accelerate an incompressible fluid such as water passing through the center of the drain valve apparatus 20, whose passageway 36 is therefore a slight constriction relative to the inlet 32 ​​and the distal end of the housing 34.

[0031] With one or more support arms 52 angled upward or proximal to the valve housing support 50 of the valve housing 30 extending from an intermediate location along the inner surface 42 of the valve housing wall, it will be appreciated that the curved opening or mouth 32 of the valve housing 30 is thus completely unobstructed around its entire circumference for improved or optimized “overflow” flow into the drain valve apparatus 20.

[0032] One or more support arms 52 of valve housing support 54 extend at an upward or proximally angle from an intermediate location along the inner surface 42 of the valve housing wall 40 to an axially oriented rear valve housing receiver 62 of valve housing support 50. Each support arm 52 has a generally curved, rounded, conical, or otherwise contoured surface 54 facing upward or proximally.

[0033] The top of the posterior valve housing receiver 62 is formed with a tapered proximal surface 64 that somewhat comes to a proximally oriented point. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that generally, a pointed object will sink or move through a fluid at a relatively faster rate than a rounded object or, of course, a blunt object. The rate at which an object sinks or moves through a fluid such as water, or conversely, the rate at which water or another fluid moves over an object, depends on several factors, including the shape and surface area of ​​the object, as well as the viscosity and density of the fluid itself.However, all else being equal, a sharp object will generally move through a fluid faster than other shapes based on factors such as water resistance or drag, which in turn is a factor of the surface area exposed to the fluid flow or the volume of flow displaced by the object, and related effects of streamlining and pressure distribution. Thus, when a liquid drains over differently shaped surfaces, the rate at which it drains can indeed be affected by the shape of the surface, so there are a few reasons why the liquid may indeed drain faster over a sharp surface than even over a flat surface. A rounded surface. First, the contact angle between a liquid and a surface affects the ease with which the liquid can move over that surface. A pointed surface, such as the tapered proximal surface 64 of the posterior valve housing receptor 62, naturally provides less surface area for the liquid to adhere to, thus reducing the effects of surface tension and allowing the liquid to move more easily. Second, and relatedly, the actual surface area in contact with the liquid can affect drainage. A pointed surface potentially has a relatively smaller wetted perimeter, which reduces the frictional forces acting on the liquid as it drains and can result in relatively more efficient drainage compared to a rounded surface where the liquid is in contact with a larger area.Third, and also related to the surface or contact area, a sharp surface provides a more direct path for the liquid to follow as it moves downward, while a rounded surface can cause the liquid to spread out and cover a larger area, which can slow drainage due to increased friction and a longer path over the surface. Fourth, as a liquid drains, it can naturally coalesce into streams, and on a sharp surface, these streams can form more easily as the liquid seeks the path of least resistance, which can lead to relatively faster drainage, as opposed to a rounded surface where the liquid can be more spread out and drain in a thinner, more uniform layer.And fifth, still regarding channeling effects, in certain circumstances, especially in narrow spaces, capillary action can increase or slow fluid flow. Sharp angles, such as the tapered proximal surface 64, create capillary breaks, thus interrupting flow in tiny channels. Rounded surfaces can promote capillary flow, although in the context of large-scale drainage over a surface, these effects are generally minimal. Ultimately, those skilled in the art will appreciate that... A pointed or tapered shape, as in the tapered proximal surface 64 of the posterior valve housing receiver 62, versus rounded or other shapes directed toward fluid flow from above, will further contribute to improved flow through the drain valve apparatus 20. Although a particular shape or configuration of the tapered proximal surface 64 is shown, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other shapes or tapers (angles) of such proximally oriented pointed surface 64 are possible in accordance with aspects of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope thereof.

[0034] The posterior valve housing 70 houses or operatively supports the skirt-shaped valve 90 centrally within the valve housing 30, as by the skirt-shaped valve collar 96, and specifically by the orifice 98 thereof, being positioned in an intermediate valve collar receiver 82 formed between the upper and lower or proximal and distal flanges 76, 78 of the posterior valve housing 70, between which the skirt-shaped valve collar 96 is retained. Thus positioned, the bell-shaped valve body 92 of the skirt-shaped valve 90 extends radially outward and downward or distally from the valve collar 96, such that the distal end of the valve 94 is vertically aligned with and adjacent to or in contact with the valve seat formed or defined on the inner surface 42 proximal and adjacent to the distal end of the valve housing 34 to selectively seal the drain valve apparatus 20.

[0035] The length and position of the skirt-shaped valve 90 and specifically its valve body 92 are such that the relatively thin and more flexible valve distal end 94 of the valve body 92 is vertically displaced proximally from the distal end of the housing 34 to still seal within the valve seat portion of the inner surface 42 of the housing wall, while not extending or being exposed distally beyond the distal end of the housing 34 of the valve 30, so as to protect the distal end of the skirt-shaped valve 94 and maintain its annular shape for proper seating against the valve seat, versus the distal end of the valve skirt 94 being at or distally beyond the lower or distal end of the housing 34 and susceptible to damage or deformation. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, although the posterior valve housing 70 is thus shown and described as being a separate component from the valve housing support 50 and installed within or attached to the posterior valve housing receiver 62, such posterior valve housing 70 or related geometry or features may also be formed integrally with the valve housing support 50 and, therefore, with the valve housing wall 40 of the valve housing 30, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0036] In the standard state of the skirt-shaped valve 90, as shown in FIG. 1 for the exemplary embodiment having a single support arm 52, it can be seen that the skirt-shaped valve 90 is in its resting position displaced or located downwardly or distally in the valve collar receiver 82 of the rear valve housing as by gravity, or otherwise or course as a result of flow through the drain valve apparatus 20 from above, so that the skirt-shaped valve collar 96 is seated on the lower or distal flange 78 of the rear valve housing.

[0037] It will be appreciated that, geometrically, by having the skirt-shaped valve body 92 effectively extend from the upper or proximal end of the valve collar 96, the downward angle of the skirt-shaped valve body 92 90 may be relatively greater for the same overall diameter and height or length of the skirt-shaped valve body 92 90 to the valve seat immediately above the distal end of the housing 34, which relatively steeper slope of the skirt-shaped valve 90 further contributes to improving downward flow through the drain valve apparatus 20. Or for the same height or length of the skirt-shaped valve body 92, all else being equal relative to the valve housing The skirt-shaped valve 90 is therefore higher within the valve housing 30, and therefore its distal valve end 94 is proximal to the distal end of the valve housing 34 of the valve 30, which has advantages in protecting the shape and operation of the distal end of the relatively thin skirt-shaped valve 94, as explained above.

[0038] Referring to FIGS. 2-4, there are shown several exemplary embodiments of a mitigation device or assembly 110 that is employed in conjunction with a drain valve apparatus 20 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. First, it can be seen that here the drain valve apparatus 20 is shown installed within a plumbing system S having a basic drain D including a vertical pipe P that intersects another pipe or conduit C within the plumbing system S and a drain cap V at the top at the inlet of the drain D, with the drain cap V and inlet / mouth positioned on and within the floor F and the vertical drain pipe P and the remainder of the plumbing system S being within the ground G below the floor F.Although such a generic plumbing system S is thus shown and described, those skilled in the art will appreciate that a drain valve apparatus 20, in accordance with aspects of the present invention, may be employed in conjunction with a virtually infinite variety of plumbing configurations and contexts, such that the illustrated floor drain D should be understood as merely exemplary. Indeed, sink, urinal, and other drains or plumbing systems now known or later developed, with or without a trap (not shown), may be applied in place of the illustrated floor drain D, all subject to various local plumbing codes and other factors affecting the overall plumbing system S.

[0039] It will further be appreciated with reference to FIGS. 2-4 that the drain valve 20 having the flexible outer joint 100 with circumferential flanges 104 (FIG. 1) may be pressed into such drain opening or pipe P to any desired depth that is possible and practical, instead of being accommodated at the mouth or inlet of drain D, which has advantages in use, thus permitting flow to drain D and specifically to the upper end of drain pipe P through the perforated cap V and thus a certain increase in the height of the column of water or other fluid within pipe P above drain valve apparatus 20 and again acting on skirt-shaped valve 90 to improve flow therethrough.

[0040] Returning to optional mitigation assembly 110, it will generally be appreciated that by placing some type of active material or agent below or downstream of drain valve apparatus 20 within plumbing system S, such as bioremediation agents, insect abatement substances, or deodorizers, such can further mitigate against any adverse substances or influences within plumbing system S, including harmful pathogens, noxious odors, and pests that may attempt to emanate from drain D. Several such materials or agents may be incorporated into such mitigation assembly 110 for multiple synergistic effects.Mitigation assembly 110 may include a mitigation assembly body 112 that comprises or is formed of such a biodegradable agent and thus can dissolve over time and be replaced, that comprises a porous material that is infused or imbued with such an agent and thus can be replaced or be effectively recharged by absorbing more bioremediation or other mitigating agent, or that comprises a container having a perforated or porous wall that houses such a mitigating agent and thus can be recharged as needed. In any case, one or more such mitigation assembly bodies 112 may be installed in drain valve apparatus 20 by being suspended therefrom via a flexible line or cord 114, it being appreciated that it is desirable to space one or more mitigation assembly bodies 112 from drain valve apparatus 20 so as to be positioned within the plumbing system S or drain pipe P below the apparatus. of drain valve 20 and thus be exposed to the flow that has passed through the drain valve apparatus 20 from above or to any backflow from below or further downstream in the plumbing system S.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 2, a first exemplary mitigation assembly 110 is shown having the mitigation assembly body 112 configured as a basket-like structure housing a mitigation agent and suspended below the drain valve 20 via an interconnecting mitigation assembly cord 114 between the cylindrical, basket-like body 112 and the optional plug 88 installed in the through-port 72 of the aft valve housing 70.

[0042] In FIG. 3, a second alternative exemplary mitigation assembly 110 is shown as having a body 112 configured as a disc-shaped mitigation agent suspended from the lower or distal end of the cord 114, here the upper or proximal end of the cord 114 instead engaged with a mitigation assembly cap 116 threadably engaged with the distal threaded projection 80 of the posterior valve housing 70 of the drain valve apparatus, in the exemplary embodiment the distal threaded projection 80 having a male thread form and therefore the mitigation assembly cap 116 having a corresponding female thread form. As such, it will be appreciated that the distally extending distal threaded projection 80 of the posterior valve housing facilitates the secure and convenient coupling of any mitigation assembly 110 with the drain valve apparatus 20.

[0043] In FIG. 4 there is shown yet another, third example of an alternative mitigation assembly 110 involving a series or sequence of mitigation agent beads, each as an individual mitigation assembly body 112 positioned spaced along the cord 114 again suspended from the cap 116 that is threadably engaged with the distal threaded protrusion 80 of the distal aft valve housing. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in connection with any of the exemplary mitigation assemblies 110 shown and described, later installing or removing and replenishing or Replacing such mitigation assemblies 110 is as easy as removing any cap V from drain D, pulling drain valve apparatus 20 out of pipe P if already installed, positioning mitigation assembly 110 on drain valve 20, inserting plug 88 into the distal end of through-hole 72 of back valve housing or threading mitigation assembly cap 116 onto distal threaded boss 80 of back valve housing 70, and then lowering drain valve apparatus 20 with mitigation assembly 110 into drain pipe P, again pushing or inserting drain valve apparatus 20 to any desired depth within drain D. Similarly, other steps may be taken, such as tying or wrapping mitigation assembly cord 114 to selectively set the depth of one or more mitigation assembly bodies 112 within pipe P below drain valve 20.Again, it will be appreciated that a variety of other shapes, materials, and configurations of such mitigation assembly 110, including the means by which it is mounted to drain valve apparatus 20, are possible in accordance with aspects of the present invention, so that exemplary mitigation assemblies 110 are to be understood as illustrative and not limiting.

[0044] By way of further illustration and not limitation, the sizes of the various mitigation assemblies 110 and specifically of any mitigation assembly body 112 may, of course, vary depending on a number of factors, most notably the size or inner diameter of the drain pipe P in which the mitigation assembly 110 will be positioned so as not to obstruct flow. The non-biodegradable or permanent portions of the mitigation assembly 110, as with all portions of the drain valve apparatus 20, should be formed of any suitable material now known or later developed as being capable of withstanding humid and caustic environments. The biodegradable or active agents within any mitigation assembly 110 in accordance with aspects of the present invention may again serve a variety of purposes. functions, including, but not limited to, bioremediation, insect or pest reduction, and deodorization. Such agents may have their effect within drain D by naturally evaporating or otherwise releasing from mitigation assembly 110, or in some cases, triggered or at least increased or accelerated by the movement or flow of fluid passing through or over mitigation assembly 110 and particularly the body of mitigation assembly 112 as housing or incorporating any such agent, whether such fluid be air or liquid, such as drainage water or the like.

[0045] In forming drain valve apparatus 20 and particularly its valve housing 30, including main valve housing wall 40 and support 50 and any aft valve housing 70, skirt valve 90 and outer gasket 100, and optional aft valve housing plug 88, and any mitigation assembly 110 or other feature, such as including a mitigation assembly body 112, cord 114, and cap 116, it will be appreciated that any suitable materials and methods of construction now known or later developed may be employed, including, but not limited to, metals such as steel, aluminum, alloys, and the like, and a variety of plastics, such as polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride (“PVC”), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (“ABS”), polyethylenes such as high-density polyethylene (“HDPE”) and low-density polyethylene (“LDPE”), polycarbonate, polyurethane, and other plastics, thermoplastics,thermosetting polymers or rubbers and the like, any such components being manufactured or formed by injection molding, casting, extrusion, machining, stamping, forming, or any other technique now known or later developed. Likewise, such components may be formed integrally or may be formed separately and then assembled in any appropriate secondary operation employing any assembly technique now known or later developed, including, but not limited to, fastening, bonding, welding, overmolding, or, coining, pressing, fitting, snap-fitting, or any other technique now known or later developed. Those skilled in the art will fundamentally appreciate that any such materials and methods of construction are encompassed within the scope of the invention, any exemplary materials and methods in connection with any and all embodiments being, therefore, illustrative and not limiting, including, for example, forming all relatively rigid parts from ABS plastic, such as the valve housing wall 40, the bracket 50, and the aft valve housing 70 and the mitigation assembly cover 116, and all relatively flexible or resilient parts from silicone rubber, such as the skirt-shaped valve 90 and the outer gasket 100 and optional aft valve housing plug 88.

[0046] In addition to any mitigating agent included in mitigation assembly 110, it is possible that one or more components of drain valve apparatus 20 may be infused with or have their surface coated or treated with a bioremediating agent, bioactive, antimicrobial, and / or antibacterial material or agent for additional beneficial effects when drain valve apparatus apparatus 20 is in use within a drain D or other part of a plumbing system S as described herein.

[0047] Dimensionally, the overall size and scale or proportionality of any drain valve apparatus 20 may again vary widely based on a number of factors and contexts—in the present exemplary floor drainage context, again, the overall diameter of the drain valve apparatus 20 may be nominally in the range of one and a quarter inches (1.25 inches) to six inches (6 inches) or larger, and the overall length or height, not including any mitigation assembly 110, may be in the range of one to three inches (1-3 inches), although again other sizes and shapes or configurations are possible in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

[0048] Drain valve apparatus 20 according to aspects of the present invention meet, exceed, or comply with the Code Uniform Plumbing Code (“UPC”) and all applicable plumbing codes and standards, including but not limited to being certified to the ASSE 1072-2007 standard titled “Performance Requirements for Barrier-Type Siphon Seal Protection for Floor Drains,” which is generally accepted universally and adopted by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (“IAPMO”). Related seal and flow tests have been defined and conducted for such siphon seal protection devices under standards such as the WaterMark Technical Specification (“WMTS”), with WMTS-522-2018 being applicable as titled “Barrier-Type Floor Drain Siphon Seal Protection Devices.” Standard WMTS-522, Clause 9.3 is the “Device Valve Seal Integrity Test” and requires that such drain valve 20 retain its seal under a back pressure equivalent to a 70 +5.- 0 mm water column for 10 seconds, and Standard WMTS-522, Clause 9.4 establishes a “Flow Rate Test” for such drain valve apparatus 20 where, in accordance with EN 274.2, the device must be capable of discharging a flow rate greater than the maximum nominal flow rate of a tap outlet per applicable plumbing code, wherein at “Test Level C” such flow rate is measured under a water column height of 120 + / - 2 mm for “waste outlets and traps for basins, bidets, shower trays and kitchen sinks” and at “Test Level U”, such flow rate is measured under a water column height of 300 + / - 2 mm for “waste outlets and traps for baths”. Again, drain valve apparatus 20 according to aspects of the present invention in various sizes meet all such plumbing codes and standards.Specifically, with respect to the improved flow rate through such drain valves 20 as disclosed herein, the data in Table 1 below summarizes recent certified testing by an independent laboratory in accordance with the aforementioned WMTS-522 protocol, Clause 9.4. Table 1: WMTS-522, Clause 9.4 Flow Test Data

[0049] Aspects of this descriptive report may also be described as the following exemplary numbered modalities:

[0050] The apparatus as defined above further comprising a mitigation assembly suspended from the valve housing when the apparatus is inserted into the drain pipe of the plumbing system, the mitigation assembly being functionally operable to mitigate against one or more pathogens, gases, odors, and pests within the plumbing system comprising a material including one or more of a bioremediation agent, an insect reduction substance, and a deodorizer.

[0051] The apparatus as defined above, wherein the mitigation assembly comprises a mitigation assembly body that encompasses the material.

[0052] The apparatus as defined above, wherein the mitigation assembly comprises a mitigation assembly body that accommodates the material.

[0053] The apparatus as defined above, wherein the mitigation assembly comprises a mitigation assembly body suspended from the valve housing by a mitigation assembly cord.

[0054] The apparatus as defined above, wherein: a posterior valve compartment is formed having an axial through-port; a posterior valve compartment plug is inserted distally into the posterior valve compartment through-port opposite the posterior valve compartment receiver; proximal posterior valve; and the mitigation assembly cord is attached to the posterior valve compartment plug, spaced from the mitigation assembly body.

[0055] The apparatus as defined above, wherein: the posterior valve housing is formed having a distal threaded projection; a mitigation assembly cap is threadedly installed onto the distal threaded projection of the posterior valve housing; and the mitigation assembly cord is attached to the mitigation assembly cap spaced apart from the mitigation assembly body.

[0056] The apparatus as defined above, wherein: the rear valve housing is formed having an axial through-port; and the mitigation assembly cover is perforated so as to permit fluid communication through the mitigation assembly cover with the axial through-port of the rear valve housing.

[0057] The apparatus, as defined above, in which the inner surface of the valve compartment wall is convex.

[0058] The apparatus as defined above, wherein: circumferential ribs are formed on the outer surface of the valve housing wall; and circumferential grooves are formed on the inner surface of the outer gasket configured to receive the respective circumferential ribs when the outer gasket is installed on the valve housing wall with the inner surface of the outer gasket adjacent to the outer surface of the valve housing wall for better retention of the outer gasket in the valve body.

[0059] The apparatus, as defined above, in which offset circumferential flanges are formed and extend outward from the outer surface of the outer joint for better sealing within the drain pipe of the plumbing system.

[0060] A method of employing a drain valve apparatus as defined above, comprising the steps of: inserting the apparatus into a drain pipe of the plumbing system by interference fit between the resilient outer gasket and the drain tube; and selectively drain a fluid through the drain tube and thus the apparatus, either through the passage formed within the valve housing around the skirt-shaped valve or by deflection of the distal end of the skirt-shaped valve.

[0061] The method as defined above, wherein the step of inserting the apparatus into the drain pipe comprises inserting the apparatus to a depth within the drain pipe of at least one inch.

[0062] The method as defined above comprising, prior to the step of inserting the apparatus into the drain pipe, removing a cover over the drain pipe of a floor drain of the plumbing system.

[0063] The method as defined above comprising, after the step of inserting the apparatus into the drain pipe and before the step of selectively draining a fluid through the drain pipe and thus the apparatus, replacing the plug over the drain pipe of the floor drain of the plumbing system.

[0064] The method as defined above comprising, prior to the step of inserting the apparatus into the drain tube, selectively suspending a mitigation assembly from the valve housing, such that, after insertion of the apparatus into the drain tube, the mitigation assembly is suspended within the drain tube below the valve housing.

[0065] The method as defined above, wherein the step of selectively suspending the mitigation assembly from the valve housing comprises: securing a string of the mitigation assembly between a plug of the posterior valve housing and a body of the mitigation assembly that houses or incorporates a material including one or more of a bioremediation agent, an insect reduction substance, and a deodorizer; and inserting the posterior valve housing plug distally into the through-hole of the posterior valve housing.

[0066] The method as defined above, wherein the step of selectively suspending the mitigation assembly from the valve housing comprises: securing a lanyard of the mitigation assembly between a lid of the mitigation assembly and a body of the mitigation assembly that houses or incorporates a material including one or more of a bioremediation agent, an insect reduction substance, and a deodorizer; and threadably installing the lid of the mitigation assembly onto the distal threaded protrusion of the rear valve housing.

[0067] The method as defined above further comprising adjusting the string of the mitigation assembly to selectively define the distance at which the body of the mitigation assembly is suspended below the valve housing.

[0068] Kit comprising a drain valve apparatus as defined above.

[0069] The kit, as defined above, further comprising at least one rear valve compartment plug.

[0070] The kit, as defined above, further comprising at least one mitigation set.

[0071] The kit as defined above, wherein the at least one mitigation assembly comprises at least one mitigation assembly body encompassing or accommodating a material and at least one mitigation assembly cord.

[0072] The kit as defined above, wherein the at least one mitigation assembly further comprises at least one mitigation assembly cover.

[0073] The kit, as defined above, further comprising instructional material.

[0074] The kit, in which the instructional material provides instructions on how to perform the method as defined above.

[0075] Use of a drain valve apparatus, as defined above, for selective installation of the apparatus within a drain pipe of a system plumbing to improve flow while mitigating backflow and one or more of pathogens, gases, odors, and pests within the plumbing system.

[0076] The use as defined above, wherein the use comprises a method as defined in any of the preceding embodiments.

[0077] In closing, with respect to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention as shown and described herein, it will be appreciated that a drain valve apparatus is disclosed and configured for selective installation within a drain pipe of a plumbing system to improve flow while attenuating backflow and one or more pathogens, gases, odors, and pests in the plumbing system. Because the principles of the invention may be practiced in numerous configurations beyond those shown and described, it should be understood that the invention is in no way limited by the exemplary embodiments and is capable of assuming numerous forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the particular construction geometries and materials disclosed, but may instead involve other functionally comparable structures or materials, now known or later developed, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0078] Certain embodiments of the present invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventor(s) for carrying out the invention. Variations from these described embodiments will, of course, become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventor(s) expect(s) that those skilled in the art will employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventor(s) intend(s) that the present invention be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the appended claims, as permitted by applicable law. Furthermore, any combination of the embodiments described above in all their variations possible is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by the context.

[0079] Groupings of alternative embodiments, elements, or steps of the present invention should not be construed as limitations. Each member of the group may be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group disclosed herein. It is anticipated that one or more members of a group may be included or excluded from a group for reasons of convenience and / or patentability. When any inclusion or exclusion occurs, the specification is considered to contain the modified group, thus complying with the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.

[0080] In some embodiments, numbers expressing quantities of components or ingredients, properties such as dimensions, weight, concentration, reaction conditions, and so on, used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the inventive subject matter should be understood as being modified in some instances by terms such as “about,” “approximately,” or “roughly.” Therefore, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and the appended claims are approximations that may vary depending on the desired properties to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be interpreted in light of the number of significant digits reported and applying common rounding techniques.Although the numerical ranges and parameters that establish the broad scope of some embodiments of the inventive subject matter are approximations, the numerical values ​​established in any specific examples are reported with the greatest possible precision. The numerical values ​​presented in some embodiments of the inventive subject matter may contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective test measurements.

[0081] Unless the context indicates otherwise, all ranges set forth herein should be construed as including their endpoints, and open-ended ranges should be construed as including only commercially practical values. The recitation of numerical ranges of values ​​herein is intended solely as a shorthand method of individually referencing each separate value within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value within a numerical range is incorporated into the specification as if recited individually herein. Likewise, all lists of values ​​should be considered as including intermediate values ​​unless the context indicates otherwise.

[0082] The use of the term "may" in reference to an embodiment or aspect of an embodiment also carries with it the alternative meaning of "may not." Therefore, if this specification discloses that an embodiment or aspect of an embodiment may be included as part of the inventive subject matter, then the negative limitation or exclusion clause is also explicitly understood, meaning that an embodiment or aspect of an embodiment may not be included as part of the inventive subject matter. Similarly, the use of the term "optionally" in reference to an embodiment or aspect of an embodiment means that such embodiment or aspect of the embodiment may be included as part of the inventive subject matter or may not be included as part of the inventive subject matter. The application of such a negative limitation or exclusion clause will be based on whether the negative limitation or exclusion clause is recited in the claimed subject matter.

[0083] The terms "a," "an," "the," and similar references used in the context of the description of the present invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to encompass both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by the context. Furthermore, ordinal indicators—such as "first," "second," "third," etc.—for identified elements are used to distinguish between the elements and do not indicate or imply a necessary or limited number of such elements. elements, and not indicate a specific position or order of such elements, unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0084] All methods described herein may be performed in any suitable order, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by the context. The use of any and all examples or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided in connection with certain embodiments of this document is intended solely to further clarify the inventive subject matter and does not represent a limitation on the scope of the otherwise claimed invention. No language in the application should be construed as indicating any unclaimed element essential to the practice of the invention.

[0085] It should be evident to those skilled in the art that many other modifications beyond those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts described herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, should not be restricted except in the spirit of the appended claims. Furthermore, when interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted as broadly as possible, consistent with the context. In particular, the terms "comprise" and "comprising" should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, used, or combined with other elements, components, or steps not expressly referenced. Where the claims of the specification refer to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C...and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element of the group, and not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.

[0086] Although aspects of the invention have been described with reference to at least one exemplary embodiment, it should be clearly understood by those skilled in the art that the invention is not limited thereto. Rather, the scope of the invention should be construed only in conjunction with the appended claims. and it is clear here that the inventor(s) believe(s) that the claimed subject matter is the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. A drain valve apparatus (20) configured for use as a siphon seal protection device within a plumbing system (S), comprising: a valve housing (30) having a housing proximal end (32) and an opposing housing distal end (34) with a passageway (36) therebetween, the valve housing (30) comprising: a valve housing wall (40) defining the passageway (36) and having a housing outer surface (46) and an opposing housing inner surface (42);a valve housing support (50) positioned within the passageway (36) between the proximal end (32) of the housing and the distal end of the housing (34), the valve housing support (50) having at least one support arm (52) having a contoured proximally facing surface (54) and extending inwardly from the inner surface (42) of the valve housing wall (40) and terminating centrally within the passageway (36) at an axially oriented posterior valve housing receiver (62) having a tapered axial surface (64); and a posterior valve housing (70) having a valve collar receiver (82) and extending distally from the posterior valve housing receiver (62);a skirt-shaped valve (90) having a resilient bell-shaped valve body (92) distally terminating at a distal end of the valve (94) and having a proximal valve collar having a valve collar port (98) configured for receipt in the valve collar receiver (82); operational installation of the skirt valve (90) in the rear valve housing (70) such that the distal end of the valve housing (34) rests against a portion of the valve seat of the inner wall of the valve housing proximal to the distal end of the housing (34), whereby the skirt valve (90) is protected by the valve housing wall (40) and selectively seals the passage (36); a resilient outer gasket (100) installed on the outer surface (102) of the valve housing wall (40) opposite the valve housing support, the outer gasket (100) configured to accommodate and seal within a drain pipe of the plumbing system when the drain valve apparatus (20) is inserted therein;and a mitigation assembly (110) suspended from the valve housing (30) when the drain valve apparatus (20) is inserted into the drain pipe of the plumbing system, the mitigation assembly (110) comprising a material including one or more of a bioremediation agent, an insect reduction substance, and a deodorizer, whereby upon insertion of the drain valve apparatus (20) into the drain pipe, the outer gasket (100) and the skirt-shaped valve (90) cooperate in mitigating against the backflow and escape of pathogens, gases, odors, and pests from within the plumbing system (S) while allowing improved flow through the drain valve apparatus (20) within the drain pipe, and further whereby the mitigation assembly (110) is functionally operable to further mitigate against one or more pathogens, gases, odors, and pests within the plumbing system (S).; 2. The drain valve apparatus (20) of claim 1, wherein the tapered proximal surface (64) comes to a proximally oriented point.

3. Drain valve apparatus (20) according to claim 1 , characterized by the fact that: the rear valve housing (70) is formed having a distal threaded projection (80); a mitigation assembly cover (110) is threadedly installed on the distal threaded projection (80) of the rear valve housing (70); and the mitigation assembly cord (114) is attached to the mitigation assembly cover (116) spaced from the mitigation assembly body (112) (110).

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