U.S. patent application number 14/453783 was filed with the patent office on 2015-02-12 for gutter debris preclusion device with multiple manipulations and patterns thereof.
This patent application is currently assigned to GUTTERGLOVE, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is GutterGlove, Inc.. Invention is credited to Robert C. LENNEY.
Application Number | 20150040488 14/453783 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52447379 |
Filed Date | 2015-02-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150040488 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
LENNEY; Robert C. |
February 12, 2015 |
Gutter Debris Preclusion Device with Multiple Manipulations and
Patterns Thereof
Abstract
A gutter debris preclusion device for use with a gutter attached
to a building, comprising a screen having a plurality of
manipulations, which cause resting debris to be elevated off the
surface of the screen. The elevated debris resultingly become more
rapidly dried and more easily removed by the wind.
Inventors: |
LENNEY; Robert C.; (Lincoln,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
GutterGlove, Inc. |
Rocklin |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
GUTTERGLOVE, INC.
Rocklin
CA
|
Family ID: |
52447379 |
Appl. No.: |
14/453783 |
Filed: |
August 7, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61863366 |
Aug 7, 2013 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
52/12 ;
52/741.4 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04D 13/076 20130101;
E04D 13/064 20130101; E04B 1/92 20130101; E04D 13/072 20130101;
E04D 13/0404 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
52/12 ;
52/741.4 |
International
Class: |
E04D 13/076 20060101
E04D013/076; E04B 1/92 20060101 E04B001/92 |
Claims
1. A device for a gutter debris preclusion device that is for use
with a gutter, comprising: a screen having orifices; wherein the
screen includes a first manipulation being formed in the screen and
having a first cross-sectional shape and a first longitudinal
shape; wherein the screen includes a second manipulation being
formed in the screen and having a second cross-sectional shape and
a second longitudinal shape; and, a first pattern being formed by
the first and second manipulations.
2. A device for a gutter debris preclusion device, as recited in
claim 1, wherein the first cross-sectional shape is the same as the
second cross-sectional shape.
3. A device for a gutter debris preclusion device, as recited in
claim 1, wherein the first longitudinal shape is the same as the
second longitudinal shape.
4. A device for a gutter debris preclusion device, as recited in
claim 1, wherein the first cross-sectional shape is the same as the
second cross-sectional shape, and the first longitudinal shape is
different than the second longitudinal shape.
5. A device for a gutter debris preclusion device, as recited in
claim 1, wherein the first cross-sectional shape is different than
the second cross-sectional shape, and the first longitudinal shape
is the same as the second longitudinal shape.
6. A device for a gutter debris preclusion device, as recited in
claim 1, further comprising a second pattern being formed from at
least two additional manipulations.
7. A device for a gutter debris preclusion device, as recited in
claim 6, wherein the first pattern and the second pattern are of
the same overall shape.
8. A device for a gutter debris preclusion device, as recited in
claim 6, wherein the first pattern and the second pattern are not
of the same overall shape.
9. A device for a gutter debris preclusion device, as recited in
claim 1, wherein the first longitudinal shape forms a sinusoidal
curve.
10. A gutter debris preclusion device for securing to a top portion
of a roof gutter that is attached to a building for keeping leaves
and other debris out of the roof gutter, comprising: a screen with
fenestrations allowing water to pass through into the roof gutter,
and a first manipulation and second manipulation integrally and
one-piece formed of a portion of the screen, the first manipulation
having a two-dimensional first cross section and a first length,
the second manipulation having a two-dimensional second cross
section and a second length, wherein at least the first and second
manipulations contain an elevated region that is at least 0.125
inches tall and provides a tilt angle of between 0 to 45 degrees
for leaves or similar debris resting on the screen, wherein the
first and second cross sections of the manipulations are extended
along the first and second lengths to form a pattern of
manipulations along the screen, wherein the manipulations' cross
sections causes any resting debris to be more easily dried and
blown off the roof gutter.
11. The gutter debris preclusion device as recited in claim 10,
wherein the first and second manipulations form a group or set of
manipulations.
12. The gutter debris preclusion device as recited in claim 10,
wherein the group or set of manipulations is repeated to form one
or more patterns.
13. The gutter debris preclusion device as recited in claim 12,
wherein at least one of the groups of manipulations and patterns is
repeated in a uniform manner or non-uniform manner.
14. The gutter debris preclusion device as recited in claim 10,
wherein a cross section of at least one of the first and second
manipulations is at least one of a truncated rectangle, a plurality
of adjoining truncated rectangles displaced from each other by a
fixed separation distance, a plurality of truncated rectangles that
are multi-sized, a plurality of adjoining arcs, a plurality of
adjoining angles, a plurality of truncated trapezoids, an S-shape,
a circle, and a plurality of concentric circles.
15. The gutter debris preclusion device as recited in claim 10,
wherein the screen is between approximately 5 inches to 10 inches
wide.
16. The gutter debris preclusion device as recited in claim 10,
wherein the screen further comprises a plurality of reinforcing
structures to support the screen.
17. The gutter debris preclusion device as recited in claim 10,
wherein the screen is arched to be self-supporting.
18. The gutter debris preclusion device as recited in claim 12,
wherein one or more groups or patterns is displaced and repeated
from a prior group or pattern to intersect the prior group or
pattern.
19. The gutter debris preclusion device as recited in claim 12,
wherein one or more groups or patterns is displaced and repeated
from a prior group or pattern at a dissimilar angle.
20. The gutter debris preclusion device as recited in claim 12,
wherein the group or pattern form a shape of at least one of a
cross hatch, an S, a tile, a zig-zag, a brick, a block, an
accordion, and circles.
21. The gutter debris preclusion device as recited in claim 10,
wherein the screen is tiered with an upper portion and a lower
portion, wherein at least one of the first and second manipulations
span the upper and lower portion, and wherein at least one of the
first and second manipulations is constrained to either the upper
portion or lower portion.
22. A method for gutter debris preclusion for use with a gutter,
comprising: installing a gutter debris preclusion device to a
gutter, wherein the device includes a screen having orifices,
wherein the screen includes a first manipulation being formed in
the screen and having a first cross-sectional shape and a first
longitudinal shape, wherein the screen includes a second
manipulation being formed in the screen and having a second
cross-sectional shape and a second longitudinal shape, and the
screen includes a first pattern being formed by the first and
second manipulations.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a nonprovisional application of U.S.
Provisional Application No. 61/863,366 filed on Aug. 7, 2013, to
which priority is claimed and the substance of which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of Invention
[0003] This invention relates to barriers for rain gutters for
keeping leaves and other debris out of the rain gutters. More
particularly, this invention relates to rain gutter debris
preclusion barriers, which utilize a screen.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] Prior gutter debris preclusion devices have been effective
in preventing debris from passing through the screen and entering
the gutter. Such devices are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,310,912
(the '912 patent) and U.S. Pat. No. 8,479,454 (the '454 patent)
both issued to Robert C. Lenney and John Lewis. U.S. Pat. Nos.
7,310,912 and 8,479,454 are incorporated herein by reference, in
their respective entireties.
[0006] Despite the effectiveness of the devices taught by the '912
and '454 patents, there are still areas for enhancement and
modification to those devices. The present disclosure addresses
some of these areas for modification, such as in the area of
increasing the effectiveness of screening out of debris, while at
the same time enhancing the channeling of the water flow over and
through the screen.
[0007] This present disclosure overcomes the drawbacks and
shortcomings of prior art conventional devices. These and other
features and advantages are described in, or are apparent from, the
following detailed description of various exemplary embodiments of
the devices and methods thereof
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The following presents a simplified summary in order to
provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the claimed
subject matter. This summary is not an extensive overview, and is
not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the
scope of the claimed subject matter. Its purpose is to present some
concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed
description that is presented later.
[0009] The present invention provides a screen for use with gutter
debris preclusion devices, wherein the screen includes various
sequences/patterns of manipulations to allow water to pass into the
gutter, while elevating precluded debris to accelerate its drying
and removal from the gutter system.
[0010] In one aspect of the disclosed embodiments, a device for a
gutter debris preclusion device that is for use with a gutter is
provided. The device includes a screen having orifices, wherein the
screen includes a first manipulation being formed in the screen and
having a first cross-sectional shape and a first longitudinal shape
and wherein the screen includes a second manipulation being formed
in the screen and having a second cross-sectional shape and a
second longitudinal shape, and the screen includes a first pattern
being formed by the first and second manipulations.
[0011] In another embodiment of the invention, the first
cross-sectional shape is the same as the second cross-sectional
shape. Still further in another embodiment, the first longitudinal
shape is the same as the second longitudinal shape. Yet in other
embodiments, the first cross-sectional shape is the same as the
second cross-sectional shape, and the first longitudinal shape is
different than the second longitudinal shape. In other exemplary
embodiments, the first cross-sectional shape is different than the
second cross-sectional shape, and the first longitudinal shape is
the same as the second longitudinal shape. Still further, in other
embodiments, the screen further includes a second pattern being
formed from at least two additional manipulations. In other
embodiments, the first pattern and the second pattern are of the
same overall shape and yet in other embodiments first pattern and
the second pattern are not of the same overall shape. In an
exemplary embodiment, the first longitudinal shape forms a
sinusoidal curve.
[0012] In another aspect of the disclosed embodiments, the present
invention provides a gutter debris preclusion device for securing
to a top portion of a roof gutter that is attached to a building
for keeping leaves and other debris out of the roof gutter. The
device of the present invention includes a screen with
fenestrations allowing water to pass through into the roof gutter,
and a first manipulation and second manipulation integrally and
one-piece formed of a portion of the screen, the first manipulation
having a two-dimensional first cross section and a first length,
the second manipulation having a two-dimensional second cross
section and a second length; wherein at least the first and second
manipulations contain an elevated region that is at least 0.125
inches tall and provides a tilt angle of between 0 to 45 degrees
for leaves or similar debris resting on the screen; wherein the
first and second cross sections of the manipulations are extended
along the first and second lengths to form a pattern of
manipulations along the screen; wherein the manipulations' cross
sections causes any resting debris to be more easily dried and
blown off the roof gutter.
[0013] In another embodiment of the invention the first and second
manipulations form a group or set of manipulations. Still further
in other embodiments, the group or set of manipulations is repeated
to form one or more patterns. In other exemplary embodiments, at
least one of the groups of manipulations and patterns is repeated
in a uniform manner or non-uniform manner. Yet still further in
other embodiments, a cross section of at least one of the first and
second manipulations is at least one of a truncated rectangle, a
plurality of adjoining truncated rectangles displaced from each
other by a fixed separation distance, a plurality of truncated
rectangles that are multi-sized, a plurality of adjoining arcs, a
plurality of adjoining angles, a plurality of truncated trapezoids,
an S-shape, a circle, and a plurality of concentric circles. In
other exemplary embodiments, the screen is between approximately 5
inches to 10 inches wide. Still further in some embodiments, the
screen further comprises a plurality of reinforcing structures to
support the screen. In other embodiments, the screen is arched to
be self-supporting. Still further in some embodiments, one or more
groups or patterns is displaced and repeated from a prior group or
pattern to intersect the prior group or pattern. In other
embodiments, one or more groups or patterns is displaced and
repeated from a prior group or pattern at a dissimilar angle. Still
further in other embodiments, the group or pattern form a shape of
at least one of a cross hatch, an S, a tile, a zig-zag, a brick, a
block, an accordion, and circles. Yet in other embodiments, the
screen is tiered with an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein
at least one of the first and second manipulations span the upper
and lower portion, and wherein at least one of the first and second
manipulations is constrained to either the upper portion or lower
portion.
[0014] In yet another aspect of the disclosed embodiments, the
present invention provides a method for gutter debris preclusion
for use with a gutter. In one exemplary embodiment the method
includes installing a gutter debris preclusion device to a gutter,
wherein the device includes a screen having orifices, wherein the
screen includes a first manipulation being formed in the screen and
having a first cross-sectional shape and a first longitudinal
shape, wherein the screen includes a second manipulation being
formed in the screen and having a second cross-sectional shape and
a second longitudinal shape, and the screen includes a first
pattern being formed by the first and second manipulations.
[0015] These and other features and advantages of this invention
are described in, or are apparent from, the following detailed
description of various exemplary embodiments of the devices and
methods according to this invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] Various exemplary embodiment of this invention will be
described in detail, with reference to the following figures,
wherein;
[0017] FIG. 1 displays a partial perspective view of a debris
preclusion device or gutter guard in accordance with an embodiment
of the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 1A displays an embodiment of FIG. 1 with a supporting
frame.
[0019] FIG. 1B displays an embodiment of FIG. 1 with an arched
configuration.
[0020] FIG. 2 displays a cross-section of one possible manipulation
shape for a portion of the device of FIG. 1, having a manipulation
composed of a single elevated "flattened" ridge;
[0021] FIG. 3 displays a cross-section of another possible
manipulation shape for a portion of the device of FIG. 1, having
double flattened ridges and double flattened depressions;
[0022] FIG. 4 displays a cross-section of another possible
manipulation shape for a portion of the device of FIG. 1, having
triple flattened ridges and double flattened depressions;
[0023] FIG. 5 displays a cross-section of another possible
manipulation shape for a portion of the device of FIG. 1, having
triple "rounded" ridges and double "rounded" depressions;
[0024] FIG. 6 displays a cross-section of another possible
manipulation shape for a portion of the device of FIG. 1, having
double peaks and accompanying reverse peak ridges;
[0025] FIG. 7 displays a cross-section of another possible
manipulation shape for a portion of the device of FIG. 1, having a
series of alternating and reverse peaked ridges;
[0026] FIG. 8 displays a cross-section of another possible
manipulation shape for a portion of the device of FIG. 1, having
double trapezoidal ridges;
[0027] FIG. 9 displays a cross-section of another possible
manipulation shape for a portion of the device of FIG. 1, having
double "soft" ridges;
[0028] FIG. 10 displays a cross-section of another possible
manipulation shape for a portion of the device of FIG. 1, having
double triangular-shaped ridges;
[0029] FIG. 11 displays a cross-section of a doubled height and
width sized manipulation of the manipulation of FIG. 2;
[0030] FIG. 12 displays a cross-section of a doubled height and
width sized manipulation of the manipulation of FIG. 3;
[0031] FIG. 13 displays a cross-section of a doubled height and
width sized manipulation of the manipulation of FIG. 4;
[0032] FIG. 14 displays a cross-section of a doubled height and
width sized manipulation of the manipulation of FIG. 5;
[0033] FIG. 15 displays a cross-section of a doubled height and
width sized manipulation of the manipulation of FIG. 8;
[0034] FIG. 16 displays a cross-section of a doubled height and
width sized manipulation of the manipulation of FIG. 6;
[0035] FIG. 17 displays a cross-section of a doubled height and
width sized manipulation of the manipulation of FIG. 7;
[0036] FIG. 18 displays a cross-section of a doubled height and
width sized manipulation of the manipulation of FIG. 9;
[0037] FIG. 19 displays a cross-section of a doubled height and
width sized manipulation of the manipulation of FIG. 10;
[0038] FIG. 20 displays a top view of an embodiment with a pattern
of regularly spaced manipulations oriented at an arbitrary
angle;
[0039] FIG. 21 displays a top view of an embodiment with a pattern
of offset spaced manipulations oriented at an arbitrary angle;
[0040] FIG. 22 displays a top view of an embodiment with a pattern
of regularly spaced manipulations set at opposing angles to form a
cross-hatched pattern;
[0041] FIG. 23 displays a top view of an embodiment with a pattern
of regularly spaced manipulations arranged in a curved pattern;
[0042] FIG. 24 displays a top view of an embodiment with a pattern
of regularly spaced manipulations arranged to orthogonally cross
each other;
[0043] FIG. 25 displays a top view of an embodiment with a pattern
of regularly spaced manipulations arranged in a zig-zag pattern
along a longitudinal direction of the gutter G;
[0044] FIG. 26 displays a top view of an embodiment with a pattern
of regularly spaced manipulations arranged offset and angled from
each other, forming a brick-like or block-like pattern;
[0045] FIG. 27 displays a top view of an embodiment with a pattern
of regularly spaced manipulations arranged in acute angles to each
other, forming an accordion-like pattern;
[0046] FIG. 28 displays a top view of an embodiment with a pattern
of adjacent circular manipulations;
[0047] FIG. 29 displays a top view of an embodiment with a
combination of patterns of manipulations;
[0048] FIG. 30 displays a top view of an embodiment with concentric
manipulations; and
[0049] FIG. 31 displays a cross sectional view of an alternate
embodiment having a tiered profile.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0050] Various aspects of the disclosed embodiments describe
barriers or features of barriers for rain gutters and similar
structures for keeping leaves and other debris out of the rain
gutters. Gutter debris preclusion of the present invention is
facilitated by having at least one manipulation on a screening mesh
element that extends over the top of a gutter. The manipulation
provides a resting surface that extends above the mesh. The resting
surface of the manipulation holds up a portion or entirety of the
leaves (debris) above the main flat portions of the mesh so that
the debris is not lying flat on the mesh and thus allowing the flow
of air beneath the debris. The air can dry the leaves (debris) out
faster and also create opportunities for the debris to blow off the
gutter debris preclusion device easier. Another purpose of the
manipulations in some various embodiments in the screening filter
is to give the gutter debris preclusion device support to span the
gutter without the need for an under support.
[0051] The manipulations in the screen create raised resting areas
that hold up leaves and pine needles at 0 to 45 degree angles. For
typical residential gutters, this can be accomplished by having a
height of the ridge at least about 0.125 inches from the surface of
the screen. In some embodiments, multiple ridges (or manipulations)
can be used to form uniform and non-uniform groups/patterns of
raised areas (ridges) in the screen. The groups/patterns of the
multiple ridges/manipulations can be spaced apart to suit different
applications. The spacing can be sufficiently close enough to
completely raise a typically sized pine needle above the screen's
non-ridged surface. For example, the ridges may be spaced about one
to two inches from each other. In other embodiments geared for
leaves (versus pine needles) the ridges can be closer together.
Each manipulation can have one of many cross-sectional shapes. Each
manipulation within the pattern can have different cross-sectional
shapes. The height of each of the manipulations from the surface of
the screen can be uniform or non-uniform depending upon the
embodiment. In some exemplary embodiments, the height of the
manipulation can be at least about 0.25 inches from the surface of
the screen, and analogously spaced, if so desired, to completely
raise a typically sized leaf above the screen's non-ridged surface.
In some embodiments, it will be sufficient to only require one end
of the leaf/pine needle to be raised, so spacing of the
manipulations may be altered as such. For commercial (larger)
gutters, the respective sizes may be adjusted to accommodate the
expanded screen size.
[0052] When debris is held up at these angles, it makes the debris
easier for wind to pass under the debris and dry out the leaves
(debris) quicker. It also allows for the debris to blow off easier.
Flat mesh screens without any types of ridges allow debris to cling
to the mesh more easily and discourages debris from blowing off.
When debris is not given the opportunity to dry or blow off, it can
disrupt and block the flow of water by blocking entry into the
screen.
[0053] Also, flat mesh screens tend to become clogged with
micro-debris (for example, shingle asphalt grains, dirt, decomposed
leaf pieces, etc.) over a period of time. With manipulations, more
surface area is available for the water to travel through;
therefore, even if there is micro-debris clogging a portion of the
mesh screen, the increased surface area enables the barrier to
still operate effectively. For example, a common problem with
typical flat meshes is that when debris accumulates, the debris
"blocks" the water from entering the gutter, which can result in
the water being redirected by the debris and sent, sometimes, off
the gutter. With increased surface area of the screen due to the
patterns of manipulations, the redirected water can be channeled to
other parts of the mesh screen (which may not be debris-blocked)
and appropriately directed into the gutter. Depending on the type
of pattern of manipulation chosen, the surface area can be
increased up to 100% or more over conventional flat meshes.
[0054] Further, the physical orientation and structure of the
manipulations can create a localized water damming effect for
oncoming water that increases water turbulence so as to dislodge
micro-debris and/or regular debris as well as channel water further
along other portions of the mesh screen that are not dammed,
affording increased area for the water to filter through.
Additionally, various manipulations (including combinations of
different manipulations, or arrangements thereof) may be of a
particular dimension/orientation or size to effectively operate to
channel water "indirectly" from lip-to-lip of the gutter, so as to
provide a longer path for the water to filter through. Conversely,
various manipulations may be of a particular dimension/orientation
or size to channel the debris "directly" from lip-to-lip, so as to
form a shorter path for the debris to travel (allowing it less
surface area for the debris to be trapped).
[0055] Therefore, the redirection of the flow of water provides a
mechanism to reduce the possibility of water planing over the
surface of the barrier off the gutter, which is commonly seen
during heavy downpours. Further, the patterns of raised
manipulations decrease the speed of the flow of water over the
screen and thereby enhancing the volume of water entering the
gutter through the screen.
[0056] As shown in the following side-view drawings, the
manipulations in the mesh screen can be of any shape, whether
geometric or not. Examples of various possible manipulation shapes
are now described.
[0057] Referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals
represent like parts throughout the various drawing figures, FIG. 1
displays a partial perspective view of a debris preclusion device
or gutter guard 10, made in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention. The device 10 is shown in use on a gutter G
attached to a building B, adjoining the edge of roof R that is
covered by shingles S. The device 10 extends from the shingles to
at least a gutter lip of the gutter G. The device 10 includes a
screen 20 and a gutter channel 30. Water traveling off of shingles
S pass onto the screen (or mesh) 20. The screen 20 includes a first
manipulation 26 and a second manipulation 28. The screen 20
includes a third manipulation 36 and a fourth manipulation 38. The
screen 20 further includes a first group of manipulations 40, which
includes the first manipulation 26 and the second manipulation 28.
The screen 20 includes a second group of manipulations, which
includes the third manipulation 36 and the second manipulation 38.
The first and second groups of manipulations 40 and 50 form
patterns on the screen 20. It should be appreciated that in other
exemplary embodiments each group or pattern consists of a multitude
of manipulations.
[0058] The manipulations 26, 28, 36 and 38 each have a
cross-sectional shape. Further each manipulation 26, 28, 36 and 38
has a longitudinal shape (the shape along the length of the
manipulation). The manipulations 26, 28, 36 and 38 are preferably
formed integrally in the screen. The screen is bent to form the
manipulations. FIG. 2 displays the cross-sectional shape of the
first manipulation 26. It has a cross-sectional height 32. The
first manipulation 26 has a longitudinal shape 34, as shown in FIG.
1. It should be appreciated that the second, third and forth
manipulations in this embodiment have the same cross-sectional
shape and the longitudinal shape as the first manipulation 26. It
should be appreciated that in other exemplary embodiments, the
screen includes additional manipulations. It should be further
appreciated that in other exemplary embodiments there are only two
manipulations. Still further, it should be appreciated that at
least two of the manipulations have different cross-sectional
shapes. It should also be appreciated that in other exemplary
embodiments, at least two of the manipulations have longitudinal
shapes that are of different shapes, where the first and second
groups 40 and 50 form patterns on the screen 20.
[0059] The manipulations 26, 28, 36 and 38 are each generally of a
vertical protrusion of the mesh material, being integral and
forming a single piece with the screen 20. The manipulations 26,
28, 36 and 38 operate to elevate an end of resting debris from the
surface of the non-elevated portion of the screen 20.
[0060] For convenience, the roof R is considered to include all
portions of the covering of a building except for the shingles S.
The shingles S are considered to include the uppermost layer of
material, and can be "composite" shingles, tile, wood shake, slate,
stone, or any other roofing material available to provide the
uppermost layer.
[0061] Any debris falling off of the shingles S and onto the screen
20 of the device 10 either remain upon the device 10 or fall off of
the screen 20 and away from the gutter G so that the gutter G can
remain free of debris and function properly. As noted above,
manipulations 26, 28, 36 and 38 are of a shape that provides a
reduced horizontal planar surface for debris to cling to. While the
manipulations 26, 28, 36 and 38 in this embodiment are shown as
substantially parallel with the length of the gutter G and to a
longitudinal edge of the screen, it should be appreciated that in
other embodiments, the manipulations can be of any orientation with
respect to the gutter G. Even further, it should be appreciated
that in other embodiments, the manipulation, or groups formed by
one or more manipulations, or patterns (arrangements of a group or
groups of manipulations, or individual manipulations) can be
arranged to be non-orthogonal to the length of the gutter G, so as
to be at a repeating angle along the length of the gutter G.
[0062] The screen 20 can be any form of fenestrated structure
capable of allowing water to pass therethrough but blocking debris
from passing therethrough. The screen 20 is preferably formed of a
flexible material with uniformly sized fenestrations. Most
particularly, the screen 20 is formed of stainless steel woven wire
with the fenestrations in the screen 20 sized to provide
approximately 8,000 holes per square inch. It should be appreciated
that materials other than stainless steel can be utilized. With
such small fenestrations, twigs, sand and leaf stems are precluded
from sticking in the fenestrations, and practically all debris
harmful to the proper functioning of the gutter G is precluded from
passing therethrough. It should be appreciated that the wire can
have as few as 196 holes and as many as 8,200 holes per square
inch. In certain areas on the roof, such as the valleys where there
is a great volume of rainwater flow, fewer holes are recommended
because they allow more rainwater to pass through at higher
volumes. However, in other areas where rainwater does not come down
in high volumes off the roof, such as on straight runs, a higher
number of holes can be more appropriate, such as for example 8,000
holes per square inch. The advantage of having a higher number of
holes per square inch is that it can keep smaller debris out of the
gutter, such as pollen, or very fine roof sand grit particles.
[0063] Further, the screen 20 is positioned over the gutter G, when
in use. The gutter channel 30, which in this embodiment assists
with holding the screen 20 in position over the gutter G. The
gutter channel 30 also provides for mounting of the device 10 upon
the gutter G. In this embodiment, the screen is self supporting
over the span of the gutter G. It should be appreciated that in
other exemplary embodiments, the screen 20 may be supported over
the gutter in a variety of configurations. For example, as shown in
FIG. 1A, the screen 20 is shown in use with device 10', which
includes a rigid support structure 30' that spans the gap of the
gutter G. The screen 20 rests upon the rigid support structure 30',
similar to the devices disclosed in the '454 patent. Another
example is shown in FIG. 1B, wherein the screen 20 is shown in use
with device 10''. In this embodiment, the screen 20 is arched to
further assist with supporting itself over span of the gutter G. It
is appreciated that in other exemplary embodiments the screens of
the present invention with manipulations and groups of
manipulations can be utilized with any conventional debris
preclusion device that uses a screen.
[0064] FIG. 3 displays a cross-section 300 of another possible
manipulation shape 310 of a portion of the screen 20 of the device
10 of FIG. 1, having double flattened ridges and double flattened
depressions, and in view of the above is understood to be
self-explanatory. This embodiment's manipulation 310 is composed of
two different ridge shapes 315 and 317, where ridge shape 317 is
multi-tiered, having significantly more surface area than the
embodiment shown in FIG. 2.
[0065] FIG. 4 displays a cross-section 400 of another possible
manipulation shape 410 of a portion of the screen 20 of the device
10 of FIG. 1, having triple flattened ridges and double flattened
depressions, and in view of the above is understood to be
self-explanatory. It is noted in this example that one side 430 of
the portion of the screen 20 is at a higher elevation than the
other side 450 of the portion of the screen 20.
[0066] FIG. 5 displays a cross-section 500 of another possible
manipulation shape 510 of a portion of the screen 20 of the device
10 of FIG. 1, having triple "rounded" ridges and double "rounded"
depressions, and in view of the above is understood to be
self-explanatory. Here, the manipulation 510 is shown with a
succeeding elevation surface 517 higher than the preceding
elevation surface 515.
[0067] FIG. 6 displays a cross-section 600 of another possible
manipulation shape 610 of the portion of the screen 20 of the
device 10 of FIG. 1, having double peaks and accompanying reverse
peak ridges, and in view of the above is understood to be
self-explanatory. Of note is that the different ends of the portion
of the screen 20 can be at different elevations, according to
design preference.
[0068] FIG. 7 displays a cross-section 700 of another possible
manipulation shape 710 of a portion of the screen 20 of the device
10 of FIG. 1, having a series of alternating and reverse peaked
ridges, and in view of the above is understood to be
self-explanatory. Here, manipulation 710 is composed of a
duplicated pattern 715, 717 which overlaid with an inverted form to
generate the manipulation 710.
[0069] FIG. 8 displays a cross-section 800 of another possible
manipulation shape 810 of a portion of the screen 20 of the device
10 of FIG. 1, having double trapezoidal ridges, and in view of the
above is understood to be self-explanatory.
[0070] FIG. 9 displays a cross-section 900 of another possible
manipulation shape 910 of a portion of the screen 20 of the device
10 of FIG. 1, having double "soft" ridges, and in view of the above
is understood to be self-explanatory.
[0071] FIG. 10 displays a cross-section 1000 of another possible
manipulation shape 1010 of a portion of the screen 20 of the device
10 of FIG. 1, having double triangular-shaped ridges, and in view
of the above is understood to be self-explanatory.
[0072] The above embodiments are understood to represent various
non-limiting shapes for a manipulation used in screen 20 that
provide a mechanism to elevate debris from the lower surface of the
screen 20, which creates a means for the debris to dry and thereby
be more easily carried off the device 10 by a breeze or wind. As
stated above, the manipulation can be one or more shapes having a
cross-sectional profile and a longitudinal profile, formed into the
screen 20, and in some embodiments can be a single shape, multiple
shapes, multiple different shapes and so forth. The manipulations
can be repeated or combined to form groups (or sets) of
manipulations, which can be identically patterned along the length
of the screen and/or differently patterned along the length of the
screen, with various combinations and/or angles thereof, according
to design preference. Aspects of these variations, grouping and
patterns will be more evident in the below Figures.
[0073] It should be appreciated that the manipulation may be
composed of one or more ridges (or elevated surface(s)) that can be
higher than shown if the width span of the opening of the gutter G
is greater than a standard gutter. For example, a standard gutter
width opening is approximately five (5) inches at the top, but some
commercial gutter openings at the top can span upwards of ten (10)
inches. In this case, the manipulation ridges (or protrusions) can
be up to twice as tall and twice as wide, thus creating more
strength for support. The following figures illustrate embodiments
with screen side profiles that are nearly twice as tall and wide
for these larger commercial gutter openings.
[0074] FIG. 11 displays a cross-section 1100 of a doubled height
and width sized manipulation 1110 of the manipulation of FIG. 2,
and in view of the above is understood to be self-explanatory. In
some embodiments, the "ridge" or "protruding" manipulation may be
disposed nearer to an end of the device 10 (closer to shingle S or
channel 30), depending on implementation preference.
[0075] FIG. 12 displays a cross-section 1200 of a doubled height
and width sized manipulation 1210 of the manipulation of FIG. 3,
and in view of the above is understood to be self-explanatory.
[0076] FIG. 13 displays a cross-section 1300 of a doubled height
and width sized manipulation 1310 of the manipulation of FIG. 4,
and in view of the above is understood to be self-explanatory.
[0077] FIG. 14 displays a cross-section 1400 of a doubled height
and width sized manipulation 1410 of the manipulation of FIG. 5,
and in view of the above is understood to be self-explanatory.
[0078] FIG. 15 displays a cross-section 1500 of a doubled height
and width sized manipulation 1510 of the manipulation of FIG. 8,
and in view of the above is understood to be self-explanatory.
[0079] FIG. 16 displays a cross-section 1600 of a doubled height
and width sized manipulation 1610 of the manipulation of FIG. 6,
and in view of the above is understood to be self-explanatory.
[0080] FIG. 17 displays a cross-section 1700 of a doubled height
and width sized manipulation 1710 of the manipulation of FIG. 7,
and in view of the above is understood to be self-explanatory.
[0081] FIG. 18 displays a cross-section 1800 of a doubled height
and width sized manipulation 1810 of the manipulation of FIG. 9,
and in view of the above is understood to be self-explanatory.
[0082] FIG. 19 displays a cross-section 1900 of a doubled height
and width sized manipulation 1910 of the manipulation of FIG. 10,
and in view of the above is understood to be self-explanatory.
[0083] From a top view, the manipulations in the screen 20 can run
in any direction, and any shape between the roofline and the front
lip of the gutter G. Sets (or groups) of a given manipulation (or
pattern thereof) can be arranged in a uniform manner or non-uniform
manner. The arrangement can alter the angles of the respective
manipulation/group (and/or pattern) to form crisscrossing
manipulations or staggered manipulations with altered orientations.
The variations of the patterns of manipulations could be suited for
differing areas of homes where there are differing types of trees
with leaves and pine needles (e.g., differently sized and
differently shaped debris). The ridge pattern(s) allow for the
larger leaves to sit on the flatter surfaces with a portion of the
leaf resting on the ridge. The combination of the ridge shape and
pattern enables multi-sized debris to be effectively precluded. As
non-limiting examples, the following figures illustrate different
orientations and patterns or arrangements of the manipulations.
[0084] FIG. 20 displays a top view of an embodiment 2000 with
regularly spaced, adjacent manipulations 2010, 2020 set at an
arbitrary angle between 0-90 degrees relative to a longitudinal
edge of the screen 20. Here, they are illustrated at approximately
80 degrees relative to a longitudinal edge of the screen 20. A
group 2080 formed by the manipulations 2010, 2020, which are shown
in this example as identical manipulations, can be replicated along
the screen 20.
[0085] FIG. 21 displays a top view of an embodiment 2100 with
regularly spaced manipulations 2110, 2120, 2130 set an arbitrary
angle. Here, they are illustrated at approximately 80 degrees
relative to a longitudinal edge of the screen 20. A group 2180 is
formed by the adjacent manipulations 2110, 2120, 2130 that is
replicated along the screen 20, but in a pattern 2190 with an
intermediate offset between adjacent groups 2180.
[0086] FIG. 22 displays a top view of an embodiment 2200 with sets
of regularly spaced manipulations 2210, 2220, 2230 which intersect
with manipulations 2240, 2250, 2260. Groups 2280, 2285 are formed
by the aforementioned manipulations to arrive at a pattern 2290,
which is replicated in alignment 2295 along screen 20. It is
evident that groups 2280, 2285 are arranged at opposing angles to
form a cross-hatched pattern 2290. Here, they are illustrated at
approximately 80 degrees relative to a longitudinal edge of the
screen. In other embodiments, the groups 2280, 2285 may be oriented
at different angles, and pattern 2290 may be replicated in an
offset or angled manner, according to design preference. The
crossing pattern is well suited for homes where there are many
trees with either leaves or pine needles. The crossing ridges allow
for many surfaces to assist in holding up larger amounts of leaves
and pine needles.
[0087] FIG. 23 displays a top view of an embodiment 2300 with
regularly spaced manipulations 2310, 2320 arranged in a curved "S"
shape. This pattern 2380 is well suited for areas of homes where
there are higher rainfall amounts. The "S" shape can help slow down
the rain coming down from the roof R and across the screen 20. In
addition, the shape also can act as a supporting feature to hold
the screen 20 above the gutter G without a support structure.
[0088] FIG. 24 displays a top view of an embodiment 2400 with
regularly spaced manipulations 2410, 2420 and 2430, 2440 arranged
to orthogonally cross each other. Groups 2480 and 2485 formed from
the manipulations and due to the orthogonal orientation, form a
tile pattern. Of course, as in this and the other embodiments
described, different angles may be implemented without departing
from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.
[0089] FIG. 25 displays a top view of an embodiment 2500 with
regularly spaced manipulations 2510, 2520 arranged in a zig-zag
format along a longitudinal direction of the gutter G. Group 2580
is formed using manipulations 2510 and 2520 replicated in-kind to
form the pattern shown.
[0090] FIG. 26 displays a top view of an embodiment 2600 with
parallel manipulations 2610, 2620 and orthogonal parallel
manipulations 2630, 2640 arranged in an offset angled format, to
form a brick-like group which is replicated as pattern 2680 along
the screen 20.
[0091] FIG. 27 displays a top view of an embodiment 2700 with
manipulations 2710, 2720 arranged in acute angles to each other,
forming an apexed group 2780, which is replicated to form the shown
accordion-like pattern.
[0092] FIG. 28 displays an alternate embodiment 2800 with
circularly shaped manipulations 2810, and in view of the above is
understood to be self-explanatory. For example, manipulation 2810
can be of a non-linear geometric form (for example, circle, dome,
arc, ellipse, etc.) that is arranged in linearly repeating form
along screen 20 to provide elevated surfaces for debris removal. In
some embodiments, the respective manipulations 2810 may be offset
to form a honeycomb-like structure.
[0093] FIG. 29 displays an alternate embodiment 2900 with a
combination of sequenced manipulations 2910, 2920 and in view of
the above is understood to be self-explanatory. For example, the
group of manipulations 2910 is composed of S shapes while the group
of manipulations 2920 is composed of dome shapes. A super group
2980 (or pattern) is formed by the combination of the respective
manipulation groups. The super group 2980 is repeated at uniform
intervals along the screen 20.
[0094] FIG. 30 displays an alternate embodiment 3000 with
manipulations 3010, 3020, 3030 composed of concentric raised
circles and/or domes. The set or group 3080 of manipulations 3010,
3020, 3030 are repeated in equally spaced adjoining pattern along
screen 20.
[0095] FIG. 31 displays an alternate embodiment 3100 having a
tiered profile, attached to a gutter (not shown) via attachment
edges 3175, 3185, the specifics of which are well known in the art.
Manipulations 3110, 3135 are arranged from gutter lip-to-lip, being
uniformly spaced along the gutter length. Secondary manipulations
3130, 3135 are disposed on upper tier section 3130 in a transverse
orientation from manipulations 3110, 3120 and run along the gutter
length. Secondary manipulations 3130, 3125 are shown as an S-shape
but may be of any desired shape. Further, more or less (or
different) shapes may be utilized. Upper and lower tiers 3140, 3150
may also have portions that are curved, as shown. In some
embodiments, the screen can change its tiering to be upward (or
downward, depending on implementation preference) by about a half
an inch and then its direction is altered back to the back of the
gutter G or under the roof line. This embodiment 3100 provides
multiple large surfaces at different elevations for the manipulated
ridge(s) to be formed on. The "step" formed in the screen can
operate to form a macro ridge for larger debris while the
manipulated ridge(s) operate on smaller debris. Of course, while
FIG. 31 displays only one step, multiple steps may be implemented
by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the
spirit and scope of this disclosure.
[0096] While this invention has been described in conjunction with
the specific embodiments outlined above, it is evident that many
alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to
those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the preferred embodiments of
the invention, as set forth above, are intended to be illustrative,
not limiting. Various changes and combinations thereof may be made
without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention. It
should be apparent that various different modifications can be made
to the exemplary embodiments described herein without departing
from the scope and spirit of this invention disclosure. When
structures are identified as a means to perform a function, the
identification is intended to include all structures, which can
perform the function specified.
* * * * *