A gutter downspout insert for clog prevention

Abstract

The present invention relates to a clog-prevention device for gutter systems configured to maintain continuous water flow while effectively filtering out debris and preventing blockages. The device includes a plate, and a cylindrical portion configured to be installed over a gutter downspout opening. The plate is engineered to be customizable in size and includes a plurality of raised buttons that elevate the device. The perforated body is attached to the plate and includes an upper surface, a lower surface and side surface. The upper front surface is slightly elevated to guide water smoothly into downspout. The lower surface is configured with a series of rectangular cuts to provide structural stability. Along the side surface, a plurality of perforations allows water to enter the device while blocking larger debris. Each perforation is paired with crescent-shaped protrusions that enhance water flow dynamics, prevent debris accumulation, and reduce the likelihood of clogging.

Description

A Gutter Downspout Insert For Clog PreventionTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a gutter system and more particularly to a gutter downspout insert device configured to prevent clog and ensure continuous water flow. The invention utilizes a perforated structure with a tapered end attached to a plate that fits over the downspout opening thus, providing an effective and low-maintenance solution for preventing debris build-up and facilitating smooth water flow through gutters.BACKGROUND

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

[0003] Gutters and downspouts play a crucial role in the water management system of a building, ensuring that rainwater is channeled away from the roof, walls and foundation. The process prevents water damage that could lead to costly repairs. However, the components that are meant to protect the building from water damage are often themselves susceptible to issues caused by debris accumulation. Leaves, twigs, dirt, and other organic materials are frequently swept into the gutter system, blocking the flow of water through the downspouts. If left unaddressed, the clogs can cause water to overflow potentially damaging the roof, siding and even the foundation of the building.

[0004] Traditionally, homeowners and property managers have relied on various types of gutter guard systems to mitigate the problem of debris accumulation. The systems range from mesh screens to solid covers and curved plastic or metal guards configured to direct water into the gutter while letting debris fall off the edge. While the solutions can reduce the amount of debris that enters the gutter system, they often fail to provide completeprotection. Many existing gutter guards are not sufficiently fine or durable enough to block smaller debris like pine needles or seeds which still manage to get through and create blockages in the downspout. Additionally, the traditional guards are often prone to clogging themselves, particularly when leaves and other debris become trapped on top or around the guard, thereby obstructing the water flow.

[0005] One common limitation of traditional gutter guard systems is their inability to maintain continuous water flow during heavy rainstorms. Many gutter guard designs are prone to overflow under extreme weather conditions when the volume of rain exceeds the capacity of the system. In these cases, even the most effective gutter guards may fail to prevent water from spilling over the edges of the gutter which can result in the same water damage they were designed to prevent. Moreover, the maintenance and cleaning of traditional gutter guards can be burdensome and costly. Homeowners often need to remove debris manually or hire professionals to clean the gutter guards, leading to additional time, efforts and expenses.

[0006] Further complicating matters, some gutter guard systems are not designed with ease of installation in mind. Many require intricate fittings or modifications to the existing gutter system which can increase the cost and complexity of installation. Others may require periodic replacements or repairs due to wear and tear, particularly when they are exposed to the elements for extended periods.

[0007] In view of these persistent issues, there is a clear need for an improved solution that addresses the limitations of traditional gutter guards. An effective solution must be able to provide comprehensive protection from all sizes of debris i.e. large and small while ensuring that water flows freely and efficiently through the downspout even during heavy rain. Furthermore, such a system should be easy to install, low-maintenance and capable of providing long-term performance without the need for frequent repairs or replacements.SUMMARY

[0008] The present invention relates to a gutter downspout configured to prevent clogs and ensure continuous water flow. The device comprises a plate that fits over the downspout opening and a perforated body with a tapered end. In other embodiment, the device comprises cuboid tapered profile with a plurality of perforations. In other embodiment, the perforated body may be selected from cuboid rectangular tube, cuboid squire tube or cylindrical body with tapered end. The perforated design allows water to flow freely while blocking larger debris and the raised buttons on the plate elevate the device to create space for water to flow underneath. Additionally, the built-in weight keeps the device securely in place within the downspout. In addition, the device provides various advantages that include superior clog prevention compared to traditional gutter guards, ensuring continuous water flow even during heavy rainfall. It helps prevent gutter overflows and potential water damage while requiring minimal maintenance. The device is easy to install and remove for cleaning purposes, making it a convenient solution for homeowners. The invention includes various modifications such as different sizes to accommodate various downspout dimensions, alternative materials for improve durability or cost-effectiveness and adjustable plate sizes for universal fitting.

[0009] In an embodiment of the present invention, the invention discloses a clogprevention device for a gutter system. The device comprises a plate configured to fit over a downspout opening. The plate includes a top portion and a bottom portion. The bottom portion of the plate is configured to have a plurality of raised buttons configured to elevate the device to allow water to flow freely underneath the device. In addition, the device comprises a perforated body configured to couple with the top portion of the plate. The cylindrical portion is having an upper, a lower and a side surface. The upper front surface is slightly elevated and curved to guide the water, the lower surface of perforated body isconfigured with a plurality of rectangular cuts for providing device stability and the side surface of the perforated body is configured to have a plurality of perforations. The plurality of perforations is configured to couple with crescent shaped protruded portions to enhance water flow, prevent debris accumulation and prevent water clogging.

[0010] In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the plate is configured to be cut to size for a custom fit, allowing the plate to accommodate to different downspout dimensions.

[0001] In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the plate is removably attached to the perforated body, enabling easy replacement in the event of wear or tear.

[0002] In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the plurality of raised buttons is composed of stainless steel, plastic, rubber-coated metal, aluminum or a similar material.

[0003] In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the plurality of raised buttons includes push to fit mechanism, ensuring that the device stays intact and does not get displaced or dislodged due to water pressure or external force.

[0004] In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the perforated body includes a built-in weight to ensure that the device remains secured in place during harsh weather conditions.

[0005] In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the perforated body further comprises a tapered end, facilitating smoother water flow into the downspout and reducing the potential for water blockage.

[0006] In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the perforated body is formed of two portions joined together to define the complete perforated body.

[0007] In the embodiment, the tubular tapered body may be in the form of rounded corned rectangular hollow space with elliptical perforations. The side perforations may be supported with additional moon shaped crest.

[0008] In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the two portions are joined together by a plurality of push to fit button or a plurality of male or female type fasteners.

[0009] In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the plurality of perforations has a tapered oval shape or almond shape or tear-drop shape.

[0010] In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the protruded portion is designed with aerodynamic shape to help direct water smoothly through the gutter, promoting better flow dynamics and reducing the chances of stagnation or blockages.

[0011] In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the crescent-shaped design assists in preventing debris such as leaves, twigs, plastic wrappers, seeds, pods, dirt and mud clumps from entering the downspout.

[0012] In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the perforated body is composed of a weather-resistant material such as polypropylene, stainless steel or any other similar material.

[0013] For further clarification of the features and other embodiments of the invention, a more particular description is provided that will further explain the features and advantage of the invention with the illustration or the drawings. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the present invention are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] A full understanding of the invention can be gained from the following description of the preferred embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0015] FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a bottom portion of the clog prevention device, in according to embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein;

[0016] FIG. IB illustrates a perspective view of a side portion of the clog prevention device, in according to embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein;

[0017] FIG. 1C illustrates a perspective view of a top portion of the clog prevention device, in according to embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein;

[0018] FIG. ID illustrates a prospective view of a side surface of the perforated body, in according to embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein;

[0019] FIG. IE illustrates a cross-sectional view of a perforated body, in according to embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein;

[0020] FIG. IF illustrates a horizontal cross-sectional view of the clog-prevention device, in according to embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein;

[0021] Common reference numerals are used throughout the figures and the detailed description to indicate like elements. One skilled in the art will readily recognize that the above figures are examples and that other architectures, modes of operation, orders of operation, and elements / functions can be provided and implemented without departing from the characteristics and features of the invention, as set forth in the claims.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] References will now be made in detail to the presently preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Throughout the following detailed description, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements in all figures.

[0023] Numerous specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, the invention may be practiced according to the claims without some or all of these specific details. For the purpose of clarity, technical material that is known in the technical fields related to theinvention has not been described in detail so that the invention is not unnecessarily obscured.

[0024] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and it is not intended to be limiting the invention. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well as the singular forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0025] In the following description, reference will be made to the accompanying drawing, in which comparable functional elements are designated with like numerals. The aforementioned accompanying drawings show by way of illustration and not by the way of limitation, specific aspects and implementations consistent with principles of this disclosure. These implementations are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure and it is to be understood that other implementations may be utilized, and that structural changes and / or substitutions of various elements may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be construed in limited sense. It is noted that description herein is not intended as an extensive overview, and as such, concepts may be simplified in the interests of clarity and brevity. All documents mentioned in this application are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0026] According to the embodiment of the present invention, a clog-prevention device 100 is shown in FIG. 1A-FIG. IF. Referring to FIG. 1A, a bottom portion of the clogprevention device is disclosed. The device 100 comprises a plate 102 configured to act as the interface between the device 100 and the gutter opening, creating a secure foundation to fit over the downspout opening. The plate 102 is specifically engineered to fit above the downspout opening and is configured for easy installation and removal. The material 102 of the plate is chosen for its durability and resistance to weather conditions such as corrosion, UV exposure and environmental wear. Depending on the material selection, the plate 102 can be crafted from either a flexible yet sturdy material or a more rigid, heavy- duty composition that resists deformation over time. The plate 102 is configured to be cut to size for a custom fit, allowing the plate to accommodate to different downspout dimensions. In addition, the FIG. IB discloses a side portion of the clog prevention device. The device 100 includes a plate 102 that includes a bottom portion configured to have a plurality of raised buttons 104. The buttons 104 are strategically placed across the plate 102 and serve to elevate the device 100 slightly above the surface of the gutter. The button 104 may not serve to elevate the device 100 slightly above the surface of the gutter. In other embodiment. The raised design ensures that the plate 102 does not sit against the gutter surface, allowing for water to flow unimpeded underneath the device 100. The design promotes unobstructed water movement, preventing pooling and facilitating smooth drainage. Additionally, by creating the gap, the device allows for the free flow of smaller debris, while larger debris such as leaves and twigs are blocked by the device 100. The raised buttons 104 are not only responsible for elevating the plate 102 but also provide structural stability. They help keep the plate 102 secure within the gutter system by ensuring that it does not shift or dislodge due to external factors like water flow or wind. The raised buttons 104 function as both a support mechanism and an elevation tool keeping the device 100 firmly in place during even the most intense weather conditions. The buttons 104 are made from materials such as stainless steel, plastic, rubber-coated metal or aluminium.Additionally, the plate 102 is customizable which means that it can be easily adjusted to fit various downspout sizes. The customization ensures that the device 100 can be used in different types of gutter systems whether for residential or commercial applications. By being able to cut the plate 102 to the required size, the user can achieve a precise fit without the need for specialized tools or complex adjustments in different types of gutter systems whether for residential or commercial applications. Further, the device 100 includes a perforated body 106. The perforated body 106 of the device 100 is configured to be weather-resistant. It can be made from materials such as polypropylene or stainless steel, both of which are known for their durability and resistance to corrosion. This ensures that the device 100 will function effectively for extended periods, even in the face of harsh environmental conditions such as high humidity, rain, snow and freezing temperatures. The perforated body includes a lower surface designed with a series of rectangular cuts 108 that serve a dual purpose. The cuts 108 provide structural stability to the device 100 and prevent any potential shifting that may occur due to water pressure or other external forces. This ensures that the 100 remains securely in place even during storms or heavy rainfall, providing reliable clog prevention over time. In addition, the perforated body 106 includes a built-in weight (i.e. stainless steel) designed to keep the device 100 in place during adverse weather conditions. The weight helps prevent the device from being displaced, ensuring that it remains securely positioned within the downspout opening, thus maintaining its ability to prevent clogs. In addition, the FIG. 1C discloses a top portion of the clog prevention device 100. The device 100 includes a perforated body 106 configured to couple with a top portion of the plate 102. The perforated body 106 comprises an upper surface. The upper front surface of the perforated body 106 is slightly elevated and is configured to guide the flow of water smoothly into the downspout, thereby reducing the risk of overflow and improving the efficiency of water drainage. The upper surface will nothave perforations. The perforated body 106 is having a tapered end which facilitates a smoother flow of water into the downspout. The tapering effect reduces the likelihood of water stagnation or clogging, as it helps direct water flow in a more streamlined manner. The feature is particularly useful during heavy rainfall, as it prevents the buildup of water at the opening, allowing for continuous drainage. Referring to FIG. ID, a side view of the device 100 is disclosed showing magnified view of the perforations 110. A side surface of the perforated body 106 has a series of strategically placed perforations 110. The perforations 110 are present at the side surface and at the tapered end of the perforated body 106. The perforations 110 are not merely circular holes, they are specially shaped to enhance fluid dynamics. In one embodiment the perforations 110 are elliptical and preferred shapes include tapered ovals, almond shapes and tear-drop forms. The geometries are chosen for their hydrodynamic efficiency, allowing water to pass through more smoothly while reducing turbulence and splashing. The tapered nature of the openings ensures that water enters the device efficiently even when debris such as leaves or twigs accumulate on the outer surface. The narrowing of the perforation shape acts as a guiding channel that accelerates water flow into the perforated body, reducing the chances of water pooling or overflowing from the gutter system. The perforations 110 are configured to work in conjunction with crescent-shaped protrusions 112 that further enhance the water flow. Complementing these perforations 110 are crescent-shaped protrusions 112 that are integrated along the inner or outer edge of each opening. Protrusions 112 act as deflectors guiding water toward the perforations 110 and assisting in maintaining a laminar flow along the surface of the cylinder. Their aerodynamic design ensures that water follows a smooth path, minimizing drag and enhancing drainage speed. The protrusions 112 help direct the water in a smooth and controlled manner through the gutter system, promoting better flow dynamics and preventing the accumulation of debris that could eventually lead to a clog.Additionally, crescent-shaped structures 112 serve as water guide barriers to allow more water to pass through the 110 perforations. Their curved form creates a shield over the perforations 110 preventing larger particles such as leaves, pine needles, seed pods and mud clumps from entering device 100. Instead of allowing debris to lodge directly against the opening, the protrusions 112 cause the debris to settle on the outer surface from which it can either be blown away without disrupting the device. In the embodiment, FIG. IE discloses a cross-sectional view of the complete perforated body. The perforated body of the device 100 is configured to be assembled from two portions. Each of the portion is joined together through a push-to-fit button 114 or male / female type fasteners. The modular design allows for easy assembly and replacement of the device that needs to be serviced or replaced due to wear and tear over time. Further, a circular button 116 is configured to provide structural support to each of the portions. During assembly, the button 116 is pushed into a corresponding recess or socket located on the adjoining part. Once inserted, the button 116 expands slightly due to its flexible, resilient material properties creating a friction lock that holds the two components together. This ensures that once installed, the parts do not unintentionally separate or excessively compressed due to water pressure, vibrations, or external movement such as wind or debris impact. In the embodiment, the FIG. IF discloses a horizontal cross-sectional view of the clog-prevention device. Various fastening mechanism 118 like push to fit or male to female fasteners or other similar mechanism is used for secure attachment of different components of device together.

[0027] In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the plate is removably attached to the perforated body, enabling easy replacement in the event of wear or tear.

[0028] In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the perforated body is composed of weather-resistant material such as polypropylene, stainless steel or any other similar material.

[0029] It should be understood that the examples provided herein are intended only for purposes of illustration and any number of other implementations is also contemplated. Additionally, the referenced examples (including the described rules and / or other techniques) can be combined in any number of ways.

[0030] Although an overview of the inventive subject matter has been described with reference to specific example implementations, various modifications and changes can be made to those implementations without departing from the broader scopes of implementation of the present disclosure. Such implementation of the inventive subject matter can be referred to herein, individually or collectively, by the term “invention” merely for convenience without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any single disclosure or inventive concept if more than one is, in fact is disclosed.

[0031] The implementations illustrated herein are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the teachings disclosed. Other implementations can be used and derived therefrom, such that structural substitutions and changes can be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The Detailed Description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of various implementations is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full range of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

[0032] As used herein, the term “or” can be construed in either an inclusive or exclusive sense. Moreover, plural instances can be provided for resources or structures described herein as a single instance. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements fall within a scope of implementations of the present disclosure as represented by the appended claims. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on August 30, 2025 (30.08.2025)1. An aerodynamic clog-prevention device for a gutter system, the device comprising: a plate configured to fit over a downspout opening, the plate comprises a top portion and a bottom portion; the bottom portion of the plate configured to have a plurality of raised buttons configured to elevate the device, allowing water to flow freely underneath the device; a perforated body configured to couple with the top portion of the plate, the perforated body includes an upper, lower and two side surfaces; wherein the upper front surface of perforated body slightly elevated to guide the water, the lower surface of perforated body configured with a plurality of rectangular cuts for providing stability and the side surfaces of the perforated body configured to have a plurality of perforations, the side surfaces of the perforated body supported with moon shaped crest protrusions; wherein the moon shaped crest protrusions are configured to work in conjunction with the plurality of perforations to enhance water flow, prevent debris accumulation and prevent water clogging^; wherein the rectangular cuts are configured to provide structural stability and prevent any potential shifting of the device due to water pressure or other external forces.

2. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plate is configured to be cut to size for a custom fit, allowing the plate to accommodate to different downspout dimensions.

3. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plate is removably attached to the perforated body, enabling easy replacement in the event of wear or tear.

4. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of raised buttons is composed of stainless steel, plastic, rubber-coated metal, aluminum or a similar material.

5. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of raised buttons includes push to fit mechanism ensuring that the device stays intact and does not get displaced or dislodged due to water pressure or external force.

6. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the perforated body includes a built-in weight to ensure that the device remains secured in place during harsh weather conditions.

7. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the perforated body further comprises a tapered end, facilitating smoother water flow into the downspout and reducing the potential for water blockage.

8. The device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the perforated body is formed of two portions joined together to define the perforated body.

9. The device as claimed in claim 8, wherein the two portions are joined together by a plurality of push to fit button or a plurality of male or female type fasteners.

10. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of perforations is a tapered oval shape or almond shape or tear-drop shape or elliptical shape.

11. The device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the protruded portion is designed with aerodynamic shape to help direct water smoothly through the gutter, promoting better flow dynamics and reducing the chances of stagnation or blockages.

12. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the perforated body is composed of a weather resistant material such as polypropylene, stainless steel or any other similar material.

13. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the perforated body is selected from cuboid rectangular tube, cuboid squire tube or cylindrical body with tapered end.

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