BACKGROUND
The present disclosure relates generally to drain inserts (e.g., shower drain, tub drain, lavatory drain, etc.). More specifically, the present disclosure relates to drain inserts including mechanisms to prevent or clear debris from clogging a drain.
Various debris, such as hair or food waste, can obstruct a drain opening and restrict the flow of water down the drain. For example, if hair or other debris partially obstructs a drain opening, water may flow slowly through the drain. As another example, if hair or other debris obstructs a drain opening causing water to pool in the drain basin, potentially causing a slipping or unsanitary environment, a user may need to manually clear the hair or debris from the drain opening to restore normal drain function. The user may then be tasked with disassembling the drain components to extract the debris.
It would be advantageous to provide an improved drain insert that addresses one or more of the aforementioned issues.
SUMMARY
One embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a drain insert. The drain insert can include a cover component that when in a closed position covers and seals a drain opening. The cover component can move between an open and closed position within the drain opening. The cover component can include a plurality of indicator lights and a user display. The drain insert can include a cutting component below the cover component that can be removed from the drain opening. The cutting component can move relative to the drain opening. The drain insert can include a rechargeable power source that powers the cutting component. The drain insert can include a drain basket to catch any excess waste not cleared by the cutting component.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a debris-reducing insert for a drain shown above drain according to one embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a cutaway view of a debris-reducing insert for a drain shown deployed in drain according to one embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a debris-reducing insert for a drain shown deployed in a drain according to one embodiment.
FIG. 4A is a cross sectional schematic view of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to one embodiment.
FIG. 4B is a cross sectional view of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to one embodiment.
FIG. 4C is a detailed view of an impeller and cutting blade of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to one embodiment.
FIG. 4D is an expanded view of an impeller and cutting blade of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to one embodiment.
FIG. 4E is a detailed view of an underside of an impeller and a cover for a debris-reducing drain insert according to one embodiment.
FIG. 4F is a detailed view of an underside of an impeller and a cover for a debris-reducing drain insert according to one embodiment.
FIG. 4G is a detailed view of an underside of an impeller and a cover for a debris-reducing drain insert according to one embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a detailed view of a cutting and guard region of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to one embodiment.
FIG. 6A is a perspective view of cutting blade assembly of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to one embodiment.
FIG. 6B is a cross sectional view of cutting blade assembly of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to embodiment of FIG. 4A.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a cutting blade assembly of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to another embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a cutting blade assembly of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to another embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a cutting blade assembly of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to another embodiment.
FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a cutting blade assembly of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to another embodiment.
FIG. 10B is another perspective view of the cutting blade assembly of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to the embodiment of FIG. 10A.
FIG. 10C is a top-down view of the cutting blade assembly of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to the embodiment of FIG. 10B.
FIG. 10D is another top-down view of the cutting blade assembly of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to the embodiment of FIG. 10B.
FIG. 10E is another top-down view of the cutting blade assembly of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to the embodiment of FIG. 10B.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a cutting blade assembly of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to another embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a cutting blade assembly of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to another embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a cutting blade assembly of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to another embodiment.
FIG. 14. is a perspective view expanded of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to another embodiment.
FIG. 15 is a perspective view compacted of a debris-reducing drain insert for a drain according to another embodiment.
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a debris-reducing drain insert for a drain according to another embodiment.
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a debris-reducing drain insert for a drain according to another embodiment.
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a debris-reducing drain insert for a drain according to another embodiment.
FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a debris-reducing drain insert for a drain according to another embodiment.
FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an outer casing of a debris-reducing drain insert for a drain according to one embodiment.
FIG. 21A is a perspective view of a cutting component of a debris-reducing drain insert 90 according to another embodiment.
FIG. 21B is a cross sectional schematic view of a cutting component of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to one embodiment.
FIG. 21C is a cross sectional schematic view of a cutting component of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to one embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
A debris-reducing drain insert provides a hassle-free solution to minimize or prevent the clogging of a drain. For example, drains (e.g., waste outlet pipes for a shower, tub, lavatory, etc.) are easily clogged by hair and other debris (e.g., dirt, food, etc.) such that the user must often manually remove a drain stopper or a drain cover and extract the debris up the drainpipe and out of the drain opening. The burden of clearing a clogged drain makes a debris-reducing drain insert desirable.
Referring generally to the FIGURES, disclosed herein is a debris-reducing drain insert 90 shown according to one embodiment that generally includes a cover component 100, a cutting component 120, a DC electric motor 112, and a power source such as a battery 110. The debris-reducing drain insert 90 is retrofittable for use with various different drains (e.g., tub, shower, lavatory, sink, etc.). The cover component 100 can be manually pressed down to removably position and seal the device within the drain opening 80 and may be raised and removed to unseal the drain opening 80. The cover component 100 is shown to include a generally flat upper surface with indicator lights (such as LED lights 103 and 104) and a user interface (e.g., a screen, a display, buttons, etc.) 107. One of the lights 103 indicates that the debris-reducing drain insert is activated by turning green and that it is deactivated by turning red. Another one of the lights 104 indicates that the debris-reducing drain insert is running low on battery charge and needs to be recharged by turning yellow. The user interface (e.g., display, screen, etc.) 107 includes a screen that displays settings that the user can program such as a frequency of activation of the debris-reducing drain insert. The cutting component 120 is shown according to one example to include a cutting plate 121 with a plurality of blades 122 extending from it that rotates about a vertical shaft 128 (e.g., a central drive shaft, a center shaft, a stationary vertical shaft, a central stationary shaft, etc.). The vertical shaft 128 extends from the bottom of the cover component 100 to the bottom 150 of the debris-reducing drain insert 90. The power source is a sealed, waterproof battery 110 that is rechargeable and submersible. The battery 110 provides DC electrical power to power the motor 112 and drive the cutting component (120) and causes it to rotate about the vertical shaft 128. Sensors 105 can detect water flow and signal the battery 110 to activate and deactivate the motor 112 to drive the cutting component 120 automatically. Furthermore, the sensors may also be touching sensors such that the user can control activation of the debris-reducing drain insert 90 (e.g., by tapping with a toe).
Referring more particularly to FIGS. 1-2, an exemplary embodiment of the debris-reducing drain insert 90 is shown for use in a drain opening 80 (e.g., a tub, shower, sink, etc.), which may be a preexisting drain opening. As shown, the debris-reducing drain insert 90 includes a cover component 100, a cutting component 120 and can include a sealing component 115 that can be press fit into a preexisting drain opening to removably retain the debris-reducing drain insert 90 in a sealed relationship with the drain.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1-2, the debris-reducing drain insert 90 has a cutting component 120 and a sealing component 115 that can engage with an inner shoulder of the drain opening or the inner wall of the drainpipe. According to one embodiment, sealing component may be a rubber bellows-type sleeve having adaptable ribs or corrugations adapted to seal against drains having a variety of different diameters.
The cutting component 120 includes a plurality of cutting blades 123. According to this embodiment, the cutting blades 123 may be toothed, or jagged. The cutting blades 123 may be positioned at an angle relative to the cutting component 120. The cutting blades 123 are configured to cut debris flowing through the drain opening 80.
FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a debris-reducing insert for a drain shown above the drain opening 80 according to one embodiment. The debris-reducing drain insert 90 may be retrofittable for use with a wide variety of existing drain openings. The debris-reducing drain insert 90 may be easily removable and replaceable. The battery 110 can be rechargeable or can be replaceable. For example, the debris-reducing drain insert may be removed from the drain to recharge the battery 110. Furthermore, the battery 110 can be sealed, such that it is waterproof for use in the wet drain environment. For example, the battery 110 can be submersed into water such that the integrity of the battery 110 is not compromised.
FIG. 2 illustrates a cutaway view of the exemplary embodiment depicted in FIG. 1. of a debris-reducing drain insert 90 shown deployed in a drain opening. The debris-reducing drain insert 90 as shown has a cover component 100 that may be, but is not limited to, a flat cover, such that the cover component 100 can be lower to a closed position to be generally flush with the drain opening 80 as shown in FIG. 2. As depicted in this embodiment, the cutting component 120 may be disposed below the cover component 100. For example, this embodiment provides further safety to the design by protecting the user from the cutting component 120 with the cover component 100. In the embodiment shown, below the cutting component 120 may be the motor 112 (shown more particularly in FIGS. 3-4), and the battery 110 that as discussed above may be rechargeable or replaceable. The debris-reducing drain insert 90 can include, but is not limited to, flow-through passages or openings 92 beneath the cutting component to maximize water flow downstream of the debris-reducing drain insert 90. The flow-through passages or openings 92 may also maximize flow around the debris-reducing drain insert 90. Struts 111 may be provided to support the motor 112 and the battery 110. The cover component 100, the cutting component 120, and the sealing component 115, the motor 112, and the battery 110 may be aligned within the debris-reducing drain insert 90 on the same vertical axis following the vertical shaft 128 that extends from the center of the cover component 100 to the bottom 150 of the debris-reducing drain insert 90.
Referring to FIG. 3, a perspective view of one exemplary embodiment of the debris-reducing drain insert 90 for a drain shown deployed in a drain opening 80 in an open position 106 for water and debris to flow through. As shown in FIG. 3, the cover component 100 may be smooth or flat. The cover component 100 can include a plurality of light indicators 103 and 104 as shown (e.g., LED lights) in a plurality of colors (e.g. red, green, etc.) that may be flush with the top surface of the cover component 100. The first light indicator 103 on the cover component 100 can be, but is not limited to, a green LED light to notify the user that the debris-reducing drain insert 90 is activated. The second light indicator 104 on the cover component 100 can be, but is not limited to, a red LED light to indicate to the user that the debris-reducing drain insert 90 has been deactivated. For example, the activation of the cutting component 120 may not be heard by the user over noise (e.g. water flowing through shower head), so the first indicator light 103 and the second indicator light 104 can indicate the status of the debris reducing insert (e.g. activated, deactivated, low battery charge, etc.). The cover component may include a sensor 105 that may automatically detect the presence or absence of water to activate and deactivate the cutting component 120. For example, once the water is turned off and the water is drained from the tub, the sensor 105 can detect that no water is flowing and will deactivate the cutting component 120 until water flow is detected. Another example is if the drain cover component 100 is lowered to a closed position, the sensor 105 can detect that no water is flowing through the debris-reducing drain insert 90 and deactivate the cutting component 120. The sensor 105 may also detect touch such that the user can manually activate and deactivate the debris-reducing drain insert 90. For example, the user can touch or tap the sensor 105 with their finger or toe to manually activate and deactivate the cutting component 120. The cover component 100 may also include a user interface 107 that may include but is not limited to an LCD screen. For example, the user interface 107 can be an LCD screen that can display options for the user. For example, the user may choose from a plurality of options that may include, but are not limited to, frequency of cutting component 120 activated (e.g., once every other shower, once a week, etc.). The first indicator light 103, the second indicator light 104, and the user interface 107 may appear as shown in FIG. 3 but are not limited to the configuration. For example, the cover component may be configured such that the first indicator light 103, the second indicator light 104, and the user interface 107 may be, but are not limited to, being clustered or aligned linearly in no particular order on the cover component 100. For example, the first indicator light 103, the second indicator light 104, and the user interface 107, may be located within the cover component 100 such that the cover component 100 protects the first indicator light 103, the second indicator light 104, and the user interface 107 from coming in contact with water and debris. The first indicator light 103, the second indicator light 104, and the user interface 107 may also protrude upward from the cover component in no particular order as previously described above. The bottom of the cover component 100 can have a sealing element (e.g., a flange, a rubber seal, etc.) 108 to close the drain opening 80 when the cover component 100 of the debris-reducing drain insert 90 is lowered to a closed position. The cover component 100 may be moved vertically such that the sealing element engages and disengages with the drain opening 80. For example, the cover component 100 may be manually lifted and lowered or may be automatically opened and closed with force applied to the cover component 100 (e.g., spring pop-up drain).
Below the cover component 100 of the debris-reducing drain insert 90 aligned along the vertical axis aligned on the vertical shaft 128 may be a guard 114 that may be above the cutting component 120. The guard 114 may include openings (e.g., caged, perforated, slotted, etc.) to allow debris (e.g., hair, food waste, etc.) to flow through to the cutting component 120. The guard 114 may extend vertically, for example in a dome shape above the drain opening or remain flush with the drain opening. The cutting component 120 can be below the guard 114 and surrounded by a support housing (e.g., a cage, basket, etc.) 118 that may catch any large debris from flowing down the drainpipe and clogging the drain further below the debris-reducing drain insert 90. For example, the cage 118 may surround the cutting component 120 such that the cage 118 is between the cutting component 120 and the drain wall (e.g., drain housing, etc.) 70. According to one embodiment, the cage 118 may have edges that are sized and positioned to engage blades on the cutting component 120 in a shearing relationship to cut the debris as it passes through with the water flow. The cage 118 may also act as a secondary measure to prevent clogging of the drain opening 80. For example, if the debris-reducing drain insert 90 is not activated or inactive due to charging of the battery 110, the cage 118 may catch any debris flowing through the drain during this time as a secondary measure to prevent clogging of the drain opening 80. Furthermore, the cage 118 may also cut or macerate debris as it flows down and around the debris-reducing drain insert 90. The battery 110 (e.g. 12V DC battery) can power the motor 112 to drive the cutting component 120, and may be rechargeable or may be replaceable.
FIG. 4A is a cross sectional schematic view of the debris-reducing drain insert 90 of FIG. 3 deployed in a drain opening in an open position. Furthermore, the cover component can contain an electronics board 102 that connects to the first indicator light 103, the second indicator light 104, the sensor 105 (e.g., a water detecting sensor, etc.), the user interface 107, and to the battery 110 (e.g., 12V DC battery) through wired connections or other suitable conductive pathways. As shown in FIG. 4A, the debris-reducing drain insert 90 also includes openings 113. The openings 113 are positioned beneath the cutting component to maximize water flow downstream of the debris-reducing drain insert 90. The openings 113 may also maximize flow around the debris-reducing drain insert 90, for example, between the drain opening 80 and the debris-reducing drain insert 90.
FIG. 4B is another cross-sectional view of the debris-reducing drain insert of FIG. 4A. In some embodiments, below the drain opening 80, is a curved guard component 114 above a cutting blade 122, and above an impeller 124 that may maximize the flow rate of water through the drain. The impeller 124 may have curved structures (e.g., turbine-like or propeller-like) radiating out from the vertical shaft 128. For example, the impeller 124 may spin with the cutting blade 122 such that the impeller 124 is stationary with respect to the cutting component 120 to help the flow of water down the drainpipe. In another embodiment, there may be a second vertical shaft (not shown) that can be stationary. For example, the second vertical shaft (e.g., an outer support housing) may attach to the outermost edge of the cutting component 120 and the impeller 124. For example, vertical shaft 128 may be stationary and the outer support housing, cutting component 120, and impeller 124 may rotate about the vertical shaft 128.
Referring further to FIGS. 3-4B, motor 112 is shown centered on the central drive shaft 128. The battery 110 may be positioned beneath, or around, the central drive shaft 128. In some embodiments the battery 110 may be removable and in some embodiments the battery 110 is rechargeable (e.g., by removing the debris-reducing drain insert 90 from the drain 80 and positioning the debris-reducing drain insert 90 on a recharging docking station, not shown). The battery 110 may also charge through inductive charging or other means through the drain housing 70 or through a specifically designed drain housing (not pictured) that has charging capability, or built in electrical connections to the debris-reducing drain insert 90. Furthermore, in some embodiments a second vertical shaft may be included. For example, the vertical shaft 128 may be stationary and the second vertical shaft may rotate. For example, the impeller 124, the cutting component 120, and the motor 112 may be rotating with the second vertical shaft about the stationary vertical shaft 128. For example, the motor may include a magnet that helps with rotation around the stationary vertical shaft 128.
FIG. 4C is a detailed view of an impeller 124 and cutting blades 122 of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to one embodiment. The impeller 124 according to this embodiment is a like propeller design. The propeller like design of the impeller 124 may help the flow of water through the debris-reducing drain insert 90. The cutting blades 122 and the impeller 124 of this embodiment radiate outward at angle from the vertical shaft 128. The cutting blades 122 may have a cutting edge 123. For example, the cutting edge 123 of the cutting blade 122 may be curved (e.g. arched) and protrude vertically from the cutting blade 122 at an angle. According to this embodiment the cutting blades 122 are aligned with the blades of the impeller. In some embodiments the cutting blades 122 may be offset from the top edge of the impeller 124.
FIG. 4D is an expanded view of an impeller and cutting blade of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to one embodiment. According to this embodiment the cutting component 120 can have an annular opening. The cutting blades 122 can radiate outward from the annular opening of the cutting component 120. In this embodiment, the outer ends of the cutting blades 122 can be fixed to an outer support housing 125. The outer support housing 125 can be attached to flange 108. For example, the flange 108 may sit above a drain opening and the outer support housing 125 may be disposed downward into a drainpipe. Furthermore, the vertical shaft 128 that runs centrally through the impeller 124 may connect the impeller 124 to the cutting component 120 and the outer support housing 125. For example, the vertical shaft 128 may be inserted into the annular opening of the cutting component 120 such that the impeller 124 is connected to the cutting component 120 and the outer support housing 125. As shown in FIG. 4D, there may be a bearing or bushing 127 to aid rotation of the impeller 124. Furthermore, there may be a plurality of bearing or bushings 127 along the vertical shaft 128 that may reduce friction and wear on the rotatable or moving components of the debris-reducing drain insert 90.
Now referring to FIG. 4E-4G, are detailed views of a cover component 100, cutting blade 122 and a vertical shaft 128. According to this embodiment, the cutting component 120 may be fixed to the vertical shaft 128. Furthermore, the vertical shaft 128 may be coupled to the cover component 100. For example, the cover component may be stationary while the vertical shaft 128 and the cutting blade 122 may rotate. For example, the vertical shaft 128 and the cutting blade 122 may rotate together such that the cutting blade 122 is stationary relative to the vertical shaft 128. In another embodiment, the vertical shaft 128 may be stationary and the cutting blade 122 may be able to rotate about the vertical shaft 128. The cutting blade 122 may be shaped to pull water inward toward the vertical shaft 128 and push water downwards through the debris-reducing drain insert 90. According to this embodiment, the shape of the cutting blade 122 may include an integrated impeller feature to aid the flow of water through the debris-reducing drain insert 90 and down the drain pipe.
Referring now to FIG. 5, a guard component 114 and a cutting component 120 is depicted in detail according to an exemplary embodiment. As show in the upper left of FIG. 5 is the guard component 114 from a top down view. The guard component may include, but is not limited to, small openings 116 annularly disposed around the center shaft 128 such that only water, hair, and other debris may pass through to the cutting component 120. As shown in this embodiment in the lower left of FIG. 5, is a cross-sectional schematic view of the guard component depicting a rubber seal flange 108 that engages with the drain opening 80. Furthermore, in this embodiment the support housing or basket 118 is shown below the rubber seal flange 108 that may include, but is not limited to, openings that maximize water flow and allow the cut debris to pass through without clogging the drain.
In the upper right side of FIG. 5 is the top view of the cutting component 120 according to one exemplary embodiment. The cutting component according to this embodiment, contains a cutting plate 121 that may be annularly shaped centered along the central drive shaft 128. The cutting plate 121 may contain a plurality of blades 122 with a plurality of cutting edges 123. Furthermore, the cutting component 120 may be above the spiral support structure 126.
In this embodiment, the spiral support structure 126 can be, but is not limited to, including a plurality of openings that spiral outwardly from the central drive shaft 128. For example, in this embodiment, the impeller 124 may rotate about the stationary vertical shaft 128 relative to the spiral support structure 126 and may increase water flow and may reduce the amount of energy required to power the cutting component 120.
In the lower right side of FIG. 5 is the cross-sectional view of the cutting component 120. As shown in this embodiment, the cutting blades 122 can include a cutting edge 123 that may be vertically orientated at an angle such that the cutting edge 123 engages with the underside of the guard (e.g., a stationary guard, etc.) 114 to create a cutting or shearing action. Below the cutting plate 121 can be the spiral support structure 126 and may include an impeller 124 centered about the vertical shaft 128. The impeller 124 may rotate about the vertical shaft 128. In some embodiments the impeller 124 may rotate with the vertical shaft 128. As shown in this embodiment, a plurality of motor mounts 129 may be positioned on opposing sides of the vertical shaft 128. For example, the motor mounts 129 may be notches or openings for the motor to connect to.
FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B depict a perspective view of another embodiment of the cutting component 120 of the debris-reducing drain insert 90. According to this embodiment in FIG. 6A, the cutting component 120 may include a plurality of cutting plates (shown by way of example as two cutting plates). A first, rotatable, cutting plate 130 may contain a plurality of openings 131 defined by bars 132 that extend radially outward from the vertical shaft 128. For example, the bars 132 may be arranged such that they are equidistant from one another. The bars 132 may contain a cutting edge 133. As shown in FIG. 6A, the cutting component 120 may include a second, stationary, cutting plate 134 that contains a plurality of circular openings 135 that contain a cutting edge 136 around the circular openings 135.
The first cutting plate 130 and the second cutting plate 134 may be stacked on top of each other as shown in FIG. 6B such that minimal space exists between the first cutting plate 130 and the second cutting plate 134 such that a scissoring, cutting, or shearing action may be created by the rotation of the first cutting plate 130 and the second cutting plate 134 relative to each other. For example, the first cutting plate 130 may rotate as it's driven by the vertical shaft 128 over the second cutting plate 134 to create the scissoring, cutting, or shearing action of hair or other debris 137.
FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of a cutting blade assembly of the debris-reducing drain insert 90 according to another embodiment. According to this embodiment, the debris-reducing drain insert 90 includes a rotating cutting component 120 and a stationary support housing or basket 118. The cutting component 120 includes a central hub 138 with cutting blades 122 that may be oriented in an upright position extending outward (e.g., radially or angularly) from the central hub 138. The cutting blades 122 can be connected to the central hub 138 of the cutting component 120 may contains a leading cutting edge 123a that may be, but is not limited to, being located on the bottom or outer tip of the cutting blade 122. For example, the cutting blades 122 may have a second cutting edge that may be located on the top edge of cutting blade. The support housing or basket 118 of the debris-reducing drain insert 90 may have vertical projection 142 that engages with the central hub 138 of the cutting component 120. The cage 118 may contain vertically oriented ribs 144 and horizontally oriented ribs 146 projecting radially from the vertical projection 142. The vertically oriented ribs 144 and the horizontally oriented ribs 146 include cutting edges that are sized and positioned to engage cutting edges 123 on blades 122 in a shearing relationship to cut debris as it flows through with the water.
FIG. 8 depicts a perspective view of a cutting component assembly 120 of a debris-reducing drain insert 90 according to another embodiment. The embodiment of FIG. 8 depicts a plurality of cutting plates. According to this embodiment, the cutting component 120 contains a first, stationary, cutting plate 130 and second, rotatable, cutting plate 134. The first cutting plate 130 may have teeth 152 with a cutting edge 154 located on the inner surface. The second cutting plate 134 is coupled to vertical shaft 128 and is rotatable relative to the stationary first cutting plate 130. The second cutting plate 134 includes spiral blades that contain a cutting edges 158 that engage the first cutting plate 130 to create a cutting, shearing, or tearing action.
The illustrated embodiment of the debris-reducing drain insert 90 shown in FIG. 8 may also include a windowed support structure 160 that supports the central drive shaft 128 and contains bars 162 that create openings 164 that can maximize water flow through the debris-reducing drain insert 90 and down the drainpipe.
Furthermore, as shown in the embodiment on the right side image of FIG. 8, the second, rotatable, cutting plate 134 may be connected to the central drive shaft 128 and can be inverted so that the cutting edge 158 is facing downward. According to this embodiment the second, rotatable, cutting plate 134 may be above the first, stationary, cutting plate 130. According to this embodiment, the central drive shaft 128 can be rotated such that the cutting edge 158 on the second, rotatable, cutting plate 134 creates a shearing action with the cutting edge 154 on the first, stationary, cutting plate 130. For example, according to this embodiment, the rotatable, cutting plate 134 may rotate about the central drive shaft 128 in a clockwise or counterclockwise motion and engage with the cutting edge 154 of the first, stationary, cutting plate 130 to create a cutting, shearing, or tearing action of hair or other debris. According to this embodiment, the windowed support structure 160, with support bars 162 and openings 160 is also inverted relative to the embodiment on the left of FIG. 8 previously presented. The support structure 160 may extend upward vertically with respect to the drain opening such that the cutting component 120 may be in the same horizontal plane as the drain opening. This embodiment may include a drain cover cap that connects to the support structure 160. For example, the drain cover cap (not shown in this embodiment) may have small openings or only be raised vertically enough with respect to the drain opening for water and debris (e.g., hair) to flow through.
FIG. 9 depicts another perspective view of a cutting component assembly 170 of a debris-reducing drain insert 90 according to another embodiment. FIG. 9 shows the debris-reducing drain insert 90 with a clear plastic guard 172 above a first annular cutting plate 174 and a second annular cutting plate (not shown) with a large central opening 180. The first annular cutting plate 174 has a plurality of large cutting teeth 176 that have cutting edges 178. The second annular plate (not shown) also has a plurality of large cutting teeth with cutting edges. The large central opening 180 may include a structure (e.g., a center plug, or a center stopper) that may engage with the ends of the large cutting teeth 176 of the first annular cutting plate 174 and the large cutting teeth of the second annular cutting plate (not shown). The first annular cutting plate 174 may be stationary and be oriented above the second annular cutting plate (not shown) that may oscillate. For example, the second annular cutting plate 174 may oscillate such that the opening between the large cutting teeth 176 of the first annular cutting plate 174 and the second annular cutting plate (not shown) open and close to create a shearing or cutting action and allow water to flow down through the drainpipe. For example, the second annular cutting plate (not shown) may oscillate at the width of a large cutting tooth.
FIG. 10A depicts a perspective view of another embodiment of a cutting component 120 of a debris-reducing drain insert 90 that includes a slotted guard 182 and cutting blades 184. The slotted guard appears above a plurality of cutting blades 184. In this embodiment, the cutting blades 184 may have a cutting edge on the top surface of the blade and can run linearly across the drain opening and may be connected (e.g., to a cutting plate) or independent of one in other such that they may move synchronously or asynchronously within the drain opening to cut or tear hair or other debris.
FIG. 10B depicts a perspective view of another embodiment of a debris-reducing drain insert 90. FIGS. 10C-10E depict various top views of the debris-reducing drain insert 90 according to the embodiment of FIG. 10B. According to this embodiment, the cutting component 120 includes a cutting blade 184. The cutting blade 184 is positioned vertically (e.g., perpendicular to the drain cover, etc.). The cutting blade 184 is configured to oscillate (e.g., move, etc.) a horizontal distance away from the center axis (e.g., the shaft, etc.) of the debris-reducing drain insert 90. For example, the cutting blade 122 may be moved by a motor 112 that is powered by the battery 110.
According to this embodiment, the debris-reducing drain insert 90 includes a guide plate (e.g., a cutting plate, etc.) 186. The guide plate 186 is positioned adjacent to the cutting blade 184. For example, the guide plate 186 is positioned vertically adjacent to the cutting blade 184. According to this embodiment, the guide plate 186 is stationary relative to the cutting blade 184. The guide plate 186 may also include a plurality of cutting edges 185. For example, the cutting edges 185 may be positioned on the side edges of the guide plate 186. The guide plate 186 creates a shearing (e.g., cutting, scissor motion, etc.) with the cutting edges 185 of the cutting blade 184 to cut debris 190 (e.g., hair, etc.).
The debris-reducing drain insert 90 also includes a spring 189. The spring 189 is coupled (e.g., mounted, etc.) to the cutting blade 184 and at least communicatively coupled to the motor 112. For example, the spring 189 may be coupled to each of the motor 112 and the cutting blade 184 such that the motor 112 pulls the cutting blade 184 a horizontal distance away from the center of the debris-reducing drain insert 90 extending the spring 189. The spring 189 then contracts causing the cutting blade 184 to move back towards the center of the debris-reducing drain insert 90. For example, the spring 189 and the motor 112 generate an oscillating motion between the cutting blade 184 and the guide plate 186. According to this embodiment, the spring 189 is included in a vertical cutting assembly 120 (e.g., vertically positioned cutting blade 184 and guide plate 186). However, in other embodiments, such as a horizontal or rotational cutting assembly 120, as previously described and described in greater detail below, the spring 189 may be included to create a vertical oscillating motion or a rotational oscillating motion.
The spring 189 is also configured to be a spring tensioner. For example, the spring 189 is coupled to each of the cutting blade 184 and the guide plate 186 such that spring 189. The spring 189 aligns the cutting blade 184 and the guide plate 186 to create a shearing action.
The spring 189 also allows the cutting blade 184 (or according to some embodiments, a plurality of cutting blades 184) and the guide plate 186 to separate (e.g., move a distance apart, etc.) For example, the spring 189 allows the cutting blade 184 and the guide plate 186 to spread apart (e.g., move laterally away from each other to allow, separate, open up, etc.). For example, the cutting blade 184 and the guide plate 186 may separate, under spring force provided by the spring 189, a distance to allow objects (e.g., sand, small pebbles, etc.) that are unable to be cut to pass through the debris-reducing drain assembly 90. The spring 189 is configured to allow objects to pass between the cutting blade 184 and the guide plate 186 without ceasing oscillation of the cutting blade 184. For example, the cutting blade 184 may still oscillate to create a shearing action with the guide plate 186 while allowing the objects pass through the debris-reducing drain insert 90 and down the drain.
Further, according to some embodiments, the debris-reducing drain insert 90 may include a sensor configured to alert the user when the cutting blade 184 is separated from the guide plate 186 (e.g., an uncuttable object is lodged between, etc.). For example, the debris-reducing drain insert 90 may display a light or message on the user interface (e.g., positioned on the drain cover, etc.) to notify the user that an object or uncuttable debris is detected within the drain insert 90.
The cutting blade 184 includes a plurality of cutting edges 185. The cutting edges 185 are positioned on a top and side edges of the cutting blade 184, The cutting edges 185 are configured to cut debris 190 (e.g., hair, etc.) as the debris 190 flows through the drain opening 80. For example, the cutting edges 185 contact the guide plate 186 to create a shearing action to cut debris 190.
As shown in FIGS. 10B-10E, the debris-reducing drain insert 90 also includes a second guide plate 187. The second guide plate 187 is positioned along a horizontal plane perpendicular to the cutting blade 184. The second guide plate 187 includes a plurality of recesses 188. The plurality of recesses 188 are configured to catch (e.g., collect, etc.) debris 190, align the debris for cutting by the cutting blade 184, and aid in directing the cut debris 190 down the drain opening 80.
According to the embodiments of FIGS. 10B-10E, the debris-reducing drain insert 90 also includes a wireless charging coil 191. The wireless charging coil 191 includes leads 191a. The leads 191a are configured to connect the wireless charging coil 191 to a power source. For example, the wireless charging coil 191 is configured to receive power from a source (e.g., a battery, a GFI outlet, etc.) and provide power to the motor 112. In other embodiments, the leads 191a may connect to a box (not shown) that communicate with a control system of the debris-reducing drain insert 90.
As previously discussed, the embodiment of FIGS. 10B-10E may also include the plurality of sensors 105, and a user interface 107 on the cover component 100. The cover component 100 may also include buttons to control the debris-reducing drain insert 90, speakers to provide sound (e.g., alerts, notifications, etc.), and Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth hardware for communication. Further, the plurality of sensors 105 may include sensors for detecting the flow of water and sensors for determining (e.g., sensing, etc.) touch. In some embodiments, the cover component 100 may include sensors for data collection. For example, the sensor may collect data regarding water flow, temperature etc.
FIG. 11 depicts a perspective view of another embodiment of a debris-reducing drain insert 90. The debris-reducing drain insert 90 includes a metal guard 192 with circular slots 194 that may vary in size and allow debris to pass through and contact a cutting plate 196. The cutting plate 196 may contain a plurality of cutting blades 198 that radiate out from a central axis. Between the cutting blades 198 are a plurality of openings 199 that allow water and small debris (e.g., cut hair pieces) to pass through and continue down the drainpipe.
FIG. 12 depicts another embodiment of the cutting components 200 of a debris-reducing drain insert 90. A first metal cutting plate 202 can contain a plurality of openings 203 and may rotate about a center shaft 128. A second cutting component with a plurality of linear blades 205 radiating out from the center shaft 128 may also rotate about the center shaft 128. The first metal cutting plate 202 and the second metal cutting plate 204 may move relative to one another to create a cutting or grinding motion that can cut, tear, or grind debris. The metal cutting plate 202 can be a stationary structure (e.g., a drain cover) that aids cutting of debris within the debris-reducing drain insert 90. Furthermore, a third metal cutting plate 206 with a plurality of slots 208 may be included in the debris-reducing drain insert 90. The first metal cutting plate 202, the second metal cutting plate 204, and the third metal cutting plate 206 may all rotate about the center shaft 128. Furthermore, a combination of these structures (e.g., the second metal cutting plate 204 and the third metal cutting plate 206) may rotate relative to one another while the remaining structure(s) (e.g., the first metal cutting plate 202) remains stationary (e.g. acts as a drain cover or drain guard).
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a cutting blade component 300 for a debris-reducing drain insert. A metal cutting plate 302 contains a curved (e.g., “S”-shaped) cutting blade 304 that can include a tapered cutting edge 306. The metal cutting plate can be attached to a shaft 308 that allows the cutting plate 302 to rotate and cut or tear debris traveling down the drain to prevent clogging of a drain.
Referring generally to FIGS. 14-17, an exemplary embodiment of the debris-reducing drain insert 90 as shown, may include a cover component 400, a cutting component 420, a cutting plate 434.
Now referring to FIG. 14. Is an expanded perspective view of a cutting component and motor of a debris-reducing insert for a drain according to another embodiment. As shown in FIG. 14, the debris-reducing drain insert 90 can include a cover component 400 coupled to a vertical shaft 428 defining a vertical axis. The vertical shaft 428 can rotate with the cover component 400 and the cutting component 420. For example, the cover component 400 may be coupled to the cutting component 420. In some embodiments the vertical shaft 428 can rotate while the cover component 400 may be stationary. For example, the debris-reducing drain insert 90 may include a simple bearing (not shown) such that the cover component 400 may be decoupled from the vertical shaft 428 such that pressure applied (e.g. light touch of the hand) may stop the cover component 400 from rotating with the vertical shaft 428. In some embodiments the cover component 400 may rotate with the vertical shaft 428. Below the cover component 400 is a cutting component 420 that may be coupled to the vertical shaft 428. According to this embodiment, the cutting component 420 can have a plurality of cutting blades 422 radiating out form the vertical shaft 428. Below the cutting component 420 is a cutting plate 434 that may be stationary relative to the cutting component 420. Furthermore, the cutting plate 434 may have a plurality of circular openings 435 with an annular cutting edge 436. The cutting edge 423 of the cutting component 420 may be oriented downward such that the cutting edge contacts the cutting plate 434 (e.g. the cutting edge 423 may be perpendicular to the cutting plate 434). The plurality of circular openings 435 on the cutting plate 434 allow water to flow through the debris-debris-reducing drain insert 90. For example, as water flows through the debris-reducing drain insert, the cutting component 420 may rotate (e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise) with the vertical shaft 428. As the cutting component 420 rotates, water and debris (e.g., hair) may flow downwards such that the cutting edge 423 of the cutting component 420 contacting the annular cutting edge 436 of the circular openings 435 of the stationary cutting plate 434 create a shearing (e.g., cutting, tearing) action. For example, the shearing action may cut or chop debris (e.g. hair) into pieces small enough to prevent clogging of the drain.
Furthermore, in some embodiments, the debris-reducing drain insert 90 shown in FIG. 14 may include an impeller (not shown) below the stationary cutting plate 434. In this embodiment, the impeller may be attached to the vertical shaft 428. For example, the impeller can rotate with the vertical shaft 428 and the cutting component 420. The impeller may induce flow of water as the impeller rotates with the vertical shaft 428.
Below the cutting plate 434 may be a first annular ring 440 (e.g., a washer, rubber ring, rigid friction washer, spring retention washer, etc.) positioned about the vertical shaft 428. According to FIG. 14, below the first annular ring 440 is a spring 442 and below the spring 442 is a second annular ring 444 (e.g., a washer, rubber ring, rigid friction washer, spring retention washer, etc.). The first annular ring 440 and second annular ring 444 may isolate the spring 442 from the rotating components (e.g., cutting component 420) and may be composed of a rigid material such as plastic or nylon. Further below the second annular ring 444 is a clamp 446 that includes a removable screw 448. The clamp 446 may compact the spring 442 between the first annular ring 440 and the second annular ring 444. For example, the clamp 446 may compress the spring 442 such that a force may be exerted on the stationary cutting plate 434 such that constant contact is made between the stationary cutting plate 434 and the cutting edge 423 of the cutting blades 422 to create a shearing action. The first annular ring 440 and the second annular ring 444 aid the compression of the spring 442 to allow the spring 442 to exert a constant downward force to the cutting component 420. This may keep the cutting component 420 tightly fitted against the cutting plate 434 while allowing the vertical shaft 428 and the clamp 446 to rotate. The clamp 446 may be attached to a motor shaft and motor (not shown) and the motor nay rotate as well.
Now referring to FIG. 15 and FIG. 16, a compacted view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 14., FIG. 15 displays a cutting component for a debris-reducing drain insert 90. As shown in FIG. 15, the cover component 400 may extend above the drain opening. The cover component 400 may also be a guard. For example, the cover component 400 may cover the cutting component 420 and create a small opening 406. For example, the opening 406 may only be large enough for water and debris (e.g., hair) to flow through. In some embodiments, the cover component 400 may rotate with the cutting component 420.
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the underneath of the cutting component 420 including the cutting plate 434 and the cutting blade 422 as shown in FIGS. 14-16. The cutting edge 423 can rotate while maintaining contact with the cutting plate 434 such that a shearing action is created.
Now referring to FIGS. 18-20, FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a debris-reducing drain insert for a drain according to another embodiment. FIG. 18 as shown, includes a cover component 400, a cutting component 420, and a cutting plate 434 as previously discussed in FIG. 14. Furthermore, the embodiment of FIG. 18 includes an outer support structure 425 (e.g., an outer housing, an outer casing, etc.) that may be placed down an existing drainpipe. The outer support structure may surround the cutting component 420 and the stationary cutting plate 434. In some embodiments the stationary cutting plate 434 may be attached to the outer support structure 425. The motor 412 is attached to a battery (e.g., 12V DC battery) that may replaceable or rechargeable (not shown). The motor 412 is attached to the vertical shaft 428 such that the motor 412 can rotate (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise) the vertical shaft 428 and the cutting component 420 to create a shearing action to cut debris (e.g. hair) as it flows through the debris-reducing drain insert 90. Furthermore, the debris-reducing drain insert may include a motor cover 450 that can attach to the bottom of the motor 415 and the outer support structure 425. The motor cover 450 may include a motor mount or a motor support structure (not shown) for the motor 412. Furthermore, the debris-reducing drain insert 90 may include a second motor cover (not shown) that may attach to the top of the motor 412. In some embodiments the motor cover 450 may encapsulate the motor 412 to protect the motor 412 from water and debris and include motor mounts and support structures (not shown).
FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the cutting component 420 detached from the debris-reducing drain insert 90 of FIG. 19. According to this embodiment, the cutting component 420 is attached to the cover component 400 and the vertical shaft 428. For example, after the debris-reducing drain insert 90 is activate, the debris (e.g., hair) is cut into small debris 437 as shown on top of the stationary cutting plate 434. For example, the flow of water may pull the small debris 437 through the debris-reducing drain insert 90 and down the drainpipe.
FIG. 20. is a perspective view of the outer support structure 425 (e.g., outer casing, etc.) of a debris-reducing drain insert 90 for a drain according to one embodiment. The outer support structure 425 may include an inner ridge 427 for the stationary cutting plate to be attached.
Now referring to FIGS. 21A-C, is another embodiment of the debris-reducing drain insert 90. FIG. 21A shows the cutting component 420 of a debris-reducing drain insert 90 as show from the top view. The cutting blade 422 can include a square central axis 472 that may be coupled to a square base of a cover component (not shown). According to this embodiment, the cutting blade 422 includes cutting edges 423 that contact the cutting plate 434 that includes circular openings 435 and annular cutting edges 436. The cutting blade 422 may be stationary while the cutting plate 434 rotates to create shearing action to cut and tear debris (e.g., hair). The motor 412 may be offset of the square central axis 472 of the cutting blade 422. Furthermore, the motor may include a gear 460 that engages with the cutting plate 434 to rotate the cutting plate 434 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.
FIG. 21B is a cross sectional view of the debris-reducing drain insert 90 of FIG. 21A. According to this embodiment, the vertical shaft 428 may be coupled to the cutting plate 434. The vertical shaft 428 may remain stationary while the cutting plate 434 rotates. The cutting plate 434 can be powered by the motor 412 and gear 460. The vertical shaft may be coupled to a plurality of supports 474 below the cutting plate. As shown in this embodiment, the motor 412 and gear 460 may be offset from the vertical shaft 428. The motor 412 may also include a belt connection (not shown) around the cutting plate 434 to rotate the cutting plate 434. The gear 460 may be attached to a motor shaft 462 that is coupled to the motor 412. Furthermore, the motor 412 may be encapsulated by a motor case 464 to protect the motor 412 from moisture. The motor 412 may be powered by an electrical connection 468. In some embodiments the motor 412 may include a battery (not shown) inside the motor case 464.
FIG. 21C is a cross sectional view of the debris-reducing drain insert 90 of FIGS. 21A-B. According to FIG. 21C, this embodiment can include a central bearing assembly 480 to allow the cutting plate 434 to rotate while the cutting blade 422, the vertical shaft 428, the support structures 474 remain stationary. Furthermore, according to the embodiment as shown in FIGS. 21A-C, the debris-reducing drain insert 90 may be removable. This embodiment of the debris-reducing drain insert 90 may also include a flange (not shown) or housing (not shown) that may be designed for this embodiment of the debris-reducing drain insert 90.
The terms “coupled,” “connected,” and the like, as used herein, mean the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another.
References to “or” may be construed as inclusive so that any terms described using “or” may indicate any of a single, more than one, and all of the described terms. References to at least one of a conjunctive list of terms may be construed as an inclusive OR to indicate any of a single, more than one, and all of the described terms. For example, a reference to “at least one of ‘A’ and ‘B’” can include only ‘A’, only ‘B’, as well as both ‘A’ and ‘B’. Such references used in conjunction with “comprising” or other open terminology can include additional items.
References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below,” etc.) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the FIGURES. It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.
The construction and arrangement of the elements of the debris-reducing drain insert as shown in the exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied.
Additionally, the word “exemplary” is used to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any embodiment or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or designs (and such term is not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples). Rather, use of the word “exemplary” is intended to present concepts in a concrete manner. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.
Where technical features in the drawings, detailed description or any claim are followed by reference signs, the reference signs have been included to increase the intelligibility of the drawings, detailed description, and claims. Accordingly, neither the reference signs nor their absence have any limiting effect on the scope of any claim elements.
Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, any element (e.g., cutting blade, cutting plate, cover, impeller, support structure etc.) disclosed in one embodiment may be incorporated or utilized with any other embodiment disclosed herein. Also, for example, the order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Any means-plus-function clause is intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating configuration, and arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.
Patent Application
20240068216
