Plug Puller for Drain Clean-Out Spill Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for clearing sewage blockages in drain lines often result in spills as the clean-out plug is removed, leading to messy and inefficient obstruction removal processes.
Innovation Solution
A plug puller device comprising two housings and a rod that allows for the removal of the clean-out plug while maintaining a fluid-tight seal, enabling drainage below the obstruction without spillage, and subsequent insertion of a clean-out tool to address the blockage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the clean-out plug is removed to insert a clean-out tool, then the obstruction can be removed, but sewage rapidly drains from the drain line causing a spill
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the clean-out process into two independent functions: (1) a removable cap assembly that controls sewage flow and allows draining, and (2) a rod mechanism that removes the plug. This segmentation allows the plug to be removed while the cap remains in place to control sewage, eliminating the spill problem while maintaining ease of obstruction removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs preliminary action by providing a removable cap that can be positioned to control sewage flow before the plug is removed. The cap assembly is installed and configured in advance, allowing the system to drain controlled amounts of sewage safely before obstruction removal begins, preventing the harmful spill effect.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the drain line is drained before removing the obstruction, then sewage spill is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the drainage function and plug removal function into a single integrated assembly. The removable cap is combined with the rod mechanism in one unit that attaches to the clean-out, eliminating the need for separate drainage equipment and reducing overall device complexity while still preventing sewage spills.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable cap assembly serves multiple functions: it controls sewage flow, allows for safe draining, and can be removed to permit tool insertion. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized devices for each function, reducing device complexity while achieving spill prevention.
3Device complexity
If a traditional clean-out plug is used, then the structure is simple, but sewage spills when the plug is removed
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional single-component plug is segmented into two components: a removable cap that controls sewage flow and a plug that blocks the clean-out. This segmentation allows the cap to remain in place during plug removal, controlling sewage and preventing spills while adding only minimal complexity to the original simple structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A plug puller device and method for removing a clean-out plug from a drain clean-out and permit draining of a drain line below an obstruction prior to removing the obstruction. The device includes first and second housings. The first housing includes a drain connected to its interior. The first end of the first housing is adapted to be removably attached to the clean-out. The first end of the second housing is removably attached to the second end of the first housing. A rod is slidably received in an opening at the second end of the second housing. A fitting is attached to a first end of the rod for coupling and uncoupling with the plug through movement of the rod. A second end of the rod forms a connector to which a tool can be coupled to rotate the rod.