A BARRIER FOR INSTALLATION IN A SEWAGE SYSTEM WITH LIMITED SPACE

Abstract

 A vermin barrier (100) suitable for installation in an associated sewage system (200) having limited space in the vertical pipe of the sewage system, said barrier comprising: a mounting part (105), a support structure (110), a first shutter (101) pivotably mounted on a first hinge, a second shutter (102) pivotably mounted on a second hinge, at least two fastening elements (120) being rotatable mounted on the mounting part, said fastening elements can take a passive and an active position: in the passive position, being the position of the barrier before mounting in a sewage pipe, wherein the fastening elements (120) are not activated for fastening, and in the active position, being the position of the barrier after mounting in a sewage pipe, wherein the fastening elements (120) are activated so as to fasten the barrier (100) securely in the sewage pipe.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a barrier suitable for installation in a sewage system comprising at least one substantially vertical sewage pipe and at least one substantially horizontal sewage pipe and having limited space in at least the vertical pipe of the sewage system. Further, the present invention relates to a method for preventing a vermin from passing through a horizontal pipe in at least one direction in the pipe.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Many countries around the world suffer from vermins, such as rats, running in the sewage systems. This is a very inconvenient problem since the rats and other vermins running in a sewage pipe system have directly access to the house holdings connected to the sewage pipe system.

[0003] Numerous solutions exist for preventing vermins, such as rats, from entering specific sections of a sewage pipe system, but very few solutions, if any, exist for barriers suitable for being installed in a sewage pipe system with limited space, especially limited space in the vertical pipes, such as a cleaning and inspection well, in a sewage system.
Such sewage systems with limited space can be found in areas having underground conditions not being suitable for having a large dimension sewage system buried into it, such as rocky landscape and the like, wherein the more narrow and small the pipes of the sewage system are - the better, since rocky landscapes are very hard to dig into.
Such rocky landscape can be found in many areas of e.g. Sweden, Norway and in other countries.

[0004] Hence, an improved barrier suitable for installation in a sewage pipe with limited space, such as narrow vertical pipes, and for preventing rats or other vermins from passing the barrier in at least one direction of the sewage pipe would be advantageous, and in particular a more efficient and reliable fastening of the barrier would be advantageous.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to provide an alternative to the prior art.

[0006] In particular, it may be seen as an object of the present invention to provide a vermin barrier that solves the above mentioned problems by installing a vermin barrier in a sewage pipe system with limited space.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Thus, the above described object and several other objects are intended to be obtained in a first aspect of the invention by providing a vermin barrier suitable for installation in an associated sewage system comprising at least one substantially vertical sewage pipe and at least one substantially horizontal sewage pipe and having limited space in the vertical pipe of the sewage system, said barrier allowing a sewage flow within the horizontal sewage pipe to pass the barrier in a first direction of the horizontal sewage pipe, the first direction being a downstream direction, and for preventing vermins, such as rats, from passing the barrier in a second direction being opposite to the first direction upon installation of the barrier in the horizontal sewage pipe, the second direction being an upstream direction, the barrier comprising;

• a mounting part,
• a support structure with a first hinge and a second hinge, said first and second hinge being either directly or indirectly positioned in the support structu re,
• a first shutter pivotably mounted on the first hinge,
• a second shutter pivotably mounted on the second hinge,
• at least two fastening elements being rotatable mounted on the mounting part above the support structure, said fastening elements each having at least one first protrusion on the upper surface of the fastening elements, and

wherein the fastening elements can take a passive and an active position:

• in the passive position, being the position of the barrier before mounting in a sewage pipe, wherein the fastening elements are not activated for fastening, and
• in the active position, being the position of the barrier after mounting in a sewage pipe, wherein the fastening elements are activated and at least the first protrusions of the fastening elements are engaging with the upper part of the substantially horizontal sewage pipe via repulsive force so as to fasten the barrier securely in the sewage pipe.

[0008] The invention is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a barrier that is suitable for being mounted in a sewage system with limited space. Such "limited space"-sewage systems might be seen in areas with a rocky underground and landscape.
Furthermore, the invention may be advantageous for obtaining a barrier, which may be effective in preventing rats from passing the barrier in at least one direction.
Moreover, the invention may be advantages for obtaining a barrier that can easily be mounted in a narrow pipe, since the fastening with the two fastening elements is very easily carried out. It can be challenging to look down into a narrow vertical pipe when mounting the barrier, but the barrier ensure a correct installation even though you cannot see down pipe during mounting.

[0009] A barrier as mentioned has the great advantage that the barrier may easily and quickly be installed by a non-professional person, without any specific skills within sewage systems. Thus, the barrier may be installed by almost any gown-up person living in a private household or working in an industrial site, and wanting to install a barrier for vermin such as rats in an already established sewage pipe system of the private household or the industrial site.

[0010] By 'suitable for installation in a sewage pipe' may be understood that the barrier may be positioned at least partially within a sewage pipe, such as partially within a sewage pipe and partially outside of a sewage pipe, such as partially in a cleaning and inspection well adjacent the sewage pipe, such as a completely inside a sewage pipe. The barrier may be located in a downstream sewage pipe to let rodents escape from a well and further away from housings. However, the barrier may also be used in an upstream sewage pipe so as to allow rats or other rodents to escape into a well and away from the upstream sewage pipe leading to, e.g. a housing.

[0011] The term 'vermin' may be understood as any animal substantially similar sized with a rat and that lives or moves within sewage pipes systems. This may e.g. being any rodent, a rat, such as a Rattus Norgewichi, or the like.

[0012] A 'pipe' may in general be understood to be any pipe, and in particular a sewage pipe, such as pipes for leading a sewage flow, such as any one of domestic sanitary, commercial, industrial, agricultural sewage flow and surface runoff. The pipes usually have a circular cross-sectional profile, but other profiles, e.g. elliptic cross-sectional profile, or with vertical sides and rounded bottom, are possible within the context of the present invention as the skilled person will understand.

[0013] By 'allowing a sewage flow within the sewage pipe to pass the barrier in a first direction of the sewage pipe' may be understood, that a sewage flow may pass the barrier, such as the barrier being arranged so that the flow resistance of the barrier in the first direction is small enough so as to allow a sewage flow to pass. It may be understood that in an embodiment, a flow resistance of the barrier in the first direction is smaller than a flow resistance in the second direction.

[0014] By 'preventing rats or other vermin from passing the barrier in a second direction' may be understood that the barrier may prevent vermin from passing the barrier in at least one direction, such as the second direction, such as an upstream direction. It may further be understood, that the barrier may not block rats or vermin from passing the barrier in the opposite direction, such as in the first direction, such as a downstream direction.

[0015] It may be understood, that the barrier may be installed in a pipe so as to allow a flow of liquid in a first direction, such as a downstream direction, and so as to block rats or other vermin from passing the barrier in a second direction, such as an upstream direction. It may be understood, that the barrier may not necessarily block passage of rats or other vermin in a downstream direction.

[0016] By 'first direction' may be understood a direction of flow of sewage in the sewage pipe, such as a downstream direction. While a pipe in itself may be symmetrical and as such not have any specific flow direction, it is in general understood, that a pipe, such as a sewage pipe, has a primary direction of flow, such as a direction of flow. The direction of flow may be the direction in which liquid typically flow through the pipe, such as due to gravity and/or pressure differences. By 'first direction' is understood at direction being parallel with a longitudinal direction of the sewage pipe in a direction being similar to a direction in which flow of sewage is allowed by the barrier, such as a downstream direction.

[0017] By 'second direction' may be understood a direction in which rats or vermin are blocked. The second direction may be the upstream direction. By 'second direction' is understood at direction being parallel with a longitudinal direction of the sewage pipe in a direction being similar to a direction in which rats or other vermin are being prevented from passing the barrier, where the second direction is opposite to the first direction, such as the second direction being an upstream direction.

[0018] By upstream direction' of a pipe may be understood a direction opposite the flow direction in the pipe.

[0019] By 'downstream direction' of a pipe may be understood a direction of flow of liquid in the pipe.

[0020] By 'a support structure' may be understood a structural part of the barrier in from which the shutters may be pivotally suspended. The support structure may comprise a part of the barrier not including the shutters or the entire barrier not including the shutters.

[0021] A 'shutter' may be understood as is common in the art, such as described in, e.g., European patent application EP 1 826 326 A1 and/or EP 2 113 615 B1. In general, a shutter may thus denote a structural element, such as a plate or a net or a set of bars, which may be pivotally suspended so as to facilitate barring an aperture in a first angular position and not barring the aperture in a second angular position.

[0022] By 'first shutter' and 'second shutter' may be understood shutters which are placed relative to each other, so that in case the barrier is installed in a pipe so as to allow a flow of liquid in a first direction, such as a downstream direction, and so as to block rats or other vermin from passing the barrier in a second direction, such as an upstream direction, the first shutter is placed upstream relative to the second shutter. In other words, the first shutter is the first shutter, which the water passes when flowing through the pipe, pass the barrier in a downstream direction, and a rat or other vermin trying to pass the barrier in an upstream direction will first face the second shutter.

[0023] The first shutter and the second shutter may be arranged pivotably around each of their axes of rotation, e.g. at a first and a second hinge, respectively. They may be arranged so as to enable each of them to pivot independently from each other, although they may touch each other for certain combinations of angular values.

[0024] In the context of the present invention, a "narrow pipe" or a "pipe(system) with a limited space" may be understood as vertical pipes or a cleaning and inspection well having a circumference being narrow or limited compared to normal dimensions of the vertical pipe in a sewage system or a well.
The circumference of the pipe/well could be beneath 300mm, more likely beneath 200mm, such that the vertical pipe may have a circumference of 100mm, 120mm, 130mm, 140mm, 150mm, 160mm, 170mm, 180mm, 190mm or 200mm.

[0025] It is to be understood, that the barrier of the invention may also be installed in sewage systems having a more standard/normal dimensioned vertical pipe or cleaning and inspection well, however this is not the main purpose of the barrier.

[0026] In an embodiment there is provided a barrier, wherein the support structure comprises two wings, said wings substantially match the shape of the corresponding inner surface of the horizontal pipe when seeing the barrier from the front (F) or the back (B), the shape preferably being substantially circular.

[0027] The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for allowing the barrier to fit into a sewage pipe system, since a pipe in a sewage system is most often of a circular shape.
Also, the circular shape of the support structure prevents the rat from being able to pass the barrier by squeezing itself around the structure, since the structure at least substantially fits the shape of the pipe.

[0028] In an embodiment there is provided a barrier, wherein each of the wings are wider at the top and at the bottom than in the middle of the wings - when seeing the barrier from the sides, preferably the wings of the support structure is shaped with inwardly curves.
The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for allowing the barrier to be lowered down during installation in a narrow vertical pipe, such as a pipe or well with a limited space, and thereby allowing mounting of the barrier into a sewage system with a narrow vertical pipe or well.

[0029] In an embodiment there is provided a barrier, wherein the support structure has a substantially permanent shape.
The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a support structure being strong and reliable.

[0030] In the context of the invention, "substantially permanent" may be understood as the shape of the support structure is not being able to expand out or narrow in. However if enough force is applied, the shape might vary a little.

[0031] In an embodiment there is provided a barrier, wherein the support structure comprises a gap at the bottom part of the barrier.
The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for ensuring that there are no edges in the bottom of the pipe, which will disturb the water flow and which items and dirt could get stuck in.
Moreover, it is advantageous for providing a structure being able to carry the load of the barrier when being mounted and furthermore being easy to manufacture. The size of the gap can be anything from the half of the circumference to a gap of few millimetres. Preferably, the gap is between a one third to one seventh of the circumference of the support structure, more preferably between on fourth to one sixth of the circumference of the support structure, most preferably about one fifth of the circumference of the support structure.

[0032] In an embodiment there is provided a barrier - when being mounted in a sewage pipe - wherein the lowest part(s) of the support structure engage with the inner surface of the horizontal sewage pipe facilitating the barrier not to move down in a vertical direction when being mounted and used in a sewage pipe.
The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a barrier that - when is mounted in a pipe - is very stable and reliable and cannot be moved in a vertical direction.

[0033] In an embodiment there is provided a barrier, wherein the first protrusions of the fastening elements are shaped at least partly with a substantially rounded edge. The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing fastening means that are very effective and reliable when the barrier is being mounted in a pipe. The protrusions having at least partly a substantially rounded edge prevent the fastening means to damage the engaging-points at the sewage pipe where the fastening means engage with the pipe in an active position.

[0034] In an embodiment there is provided a barrier, wherein the mounting part comprises at least one spring positioned above the support structure.
The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a soft tensioning and tightening of the fastening elements. Also, the spring ensures that the fastening elements stay in a passive position when lowering down or taking up the barrier through the vertical narrow pipe. Thereby, when the fastening elements are not actively activated to an active position, the spring will ensure the fastening elements to be in a passive position.

[0035] In an embodiment there is provided a barrier, wherein the support structure comprises at least two support protrusions mounted on the upper part of the support structure for supporting and engaging with the at least two fastening elements at least when the barrier is being mounted in a sewage pipe and the fastenings elements are being in an active position.

[0036] The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a support for the fastening elements during mounting of the barrier in a pipe as well as after mounting of the barrier.

[0037] In an embodiment there is provided a barrier, wherein the at least two fastening elements are each having a second protrusion at the lower surface of the fastening elements, said second protrusion having at least partly a substantially rounded edge.
The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a smooth installation/mounting of the barrier in a pipe, since the rounded edges of the second protrusion allow the protrusion to "slide" on the support protrusions during installation.

[0038] In an embodiment there is provided a barrier, wherein two supporting protrusions, protruding from the upper part of the support structure, support and engage with the second protrusions of the fastening elements at least when the barrier is being mounted in a sewage pipe and the fastenings elements are being in an active position.
The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a stable and reliable barrier when being mounted in a pipe.

[0039] In an embodiment there is provided a barrier, wherein the barrier further comprises at least one positioning element for securing a centralized mounting of the barrier relative to the vertical sewage pipe.
The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a barrier that will always be mounted centralised relative to the centre of the vertical pipe. This centralized installation is important for the barrier to ensure that the mounted barrier will stay correct mounted when being in use for many years forward.

[0040] In an embodiment there is provided a barrier, wherein the at least one positioning element is protruding at least substantially horizontally from the mounting part. The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for ensuring a centralized mounting of the barrier.

[0041] In an embodiment there is provided a barrier, wherein the barrier comprises at least two positioning elements each having a shape that at least substantially match the corresponding inner surface of a vertical pipe.
The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing positioning elements that fit to the inner shape of the vertical barrier and thereby ensure a centralized mounting relative to the vertical pipe. The shape of the positioning elements could be what substantially corresponds to an ax-head shape.

[0042] In an embodiment there is provided a barrier, wherein the barrier further comprises a locking mechanism.
The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a barrier which ensures that vermins trying to pass the barrier is blocked and locked from opening the shutters and thereby securely preventing the vermins from passing the barrier.

[0043] In an embodiment there is provided a barrier, wherein the locking mechanism comprises:

• a first part of the locking mechanism, the first part being a blocking mechanism mounted on, or near, the first hinge, the blocking mechanism being positioned between, or partly between, the first and the second shutter, and
• a second part of the locking mechanism, the second part being formed as a protrusion from, or near, the top of the second shutter, preferably form as a hook, and

wherein the first part and/or the second part of the locking mechanism forms separate parts from the first and/or the second shutter, respectively, and wherein - when the first shutter is in a closed position - the second part of the locking mechanism is capable of passing the first part of the locking mechanism so that the second shutter is rotatable to a first, closed position (v).

[0044] The invention may be particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for obtaining a barrier, which may be effective in preventing vermin from passing the barrier in at least one direction, since a locking system with at least two parts is mounted in the barrier, the locking mechanism preventing vermin from being able to open the shutters from the upstream direction, the locking mechanism being shaped and mounted on the barrier so that no vermin would be able to unlock the locking mechanism and thereby would not be able to enter the pipe system, despite the tendency of vermin to tries assiduously to pass the barriers.

[0045] Furthermore, the invention may be particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for obtaining a barrier, which may be more effective in preventing vermin from passing the barrier in at least one direction, since the parts of the locking mechanism may be exchangeable. The parts of the locking mechanism are possibly existing in a variety of different shapes and dimensions, thereby possibly be exactly suitable for the specific sewage pipe system it is to be installed in.

[0046] It may be seen as an insight of the present invention, that a more reliable and efficient barrier may be achieved by having a very reliable and durable locking mechanism as a part of the barrier. The locking mechanism making sure, that no vermin can pass the barrier in an upstream direction, simultaneously the barrier and the locking mechanism still allowing solid organic waste and other solid material to pass in the downstream direction. The barrier with the locking mechanism thereby enable both effective blocking of rats and other vermin, and enabling a reduction of risk of blocking of the barrier.

[0047] In an embodiment there is provided a barrier, wherein at least a part of an edge of the first shutter and/or the second shutter is toothed.
The invention may be particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for obtaining a barrier, which may be effective in preventing rats from passing the barrier in at least one direction, since an edge of the second shutter is less smooth than a corresponding edge of the first shutter, whereby the second shutter may therefore exert a greater sensory stimulus to a rat or other rodent which tries to pass the barrier.
The invention may also be particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for obtaining a barrier, which may be more reliable, such as not being blocked by organic solid matter and other solid matter in, e.g., a sewage flow, since an edge of the first shutter is smoother than a corresponding edge of the second shutter, whereby the first shutter may therefore be less likely to attract organic solid matter and other solid matter in, e.g., a sewage flow, since such solid matter is less likely to get attached to, such as stick to, the smoother edge.
In an embodiment there is provided a barrier, wherein the first shutter and the second shutter are spaced apart along the first direction so that the first shutter is placed before the second shutter on an axis parallel with the first direction, such as the first shutter being placed upstream with respect to the second shutter when the barrier is installed in the sewage pipe.

[0048] By 'spaced apart along the first direction' may be understood that the first shutter and the second shutter are at different positions, and that these positions spaced apart along the first direction, such as along a direction parallel with the flow, the first shutter is placed at a first position with respect to the first direction, and the second shutter is placed at another position with respect to the first direction. An advantage of having the shutters spaced apart may be, that a rat or vermin trying to open the second shutter (where the second shutter may be the shutter the rat or vermin is facing when trying to pass the barrier in an upstream direction) by rotating it from a first angular position towards another angular position, then the rat or other vermin may have difficulties in handling the partially opened second shutter when it furthermore has to open the first shutter which is placed further upstream. The distance between the first shutter and the second shutter in the flow direction may be a distance arranged so as to be large enough that a rat or vermin cannot reach pass the second shutter and get hold of the first shutter and small enough so that the locking system between the two shutters are able to function, e.g. the distance may be at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm, at least 50 mm, or at least 60 mm. Said distance may be within 10-70 mm, such as 20-60 mm, such as 30-50 mm, such as substantially 40 mm, such as 40 mm.

[0049] In an embodiment there is provided a barrier, wherein the barrier seen from the back (B) and the front (F) is substantially symmetrical around a center axis, and/or
wherein the barrier seen from the sides (S) is substantially symmetrical around a center axis with an exception being the two shutters.

[0050] In the context of the invention, it should be understood, that there can be some smaller unessentially deviations from the centre symmetry. An example can be the mounting part wherein some cuts have a pattern not being symmetrical about a centre axis, however the overall shape of the mounting part is still symmetrical about an centre axis. Another example is the shutters and the optional locking system, which are not exact symmetric.
The symmetry should therefore be seen as an overall symmetry of the construction of the barrier, and not an exact symmetry for any smaller cuts, parts or the like.
Also it should be seen as a substantially symmetry, and not an exact symmetry.

[0051] The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a barrier that can be mounted in a pipe with a narrow or limited space and which is easy to manufacture.

[0052] Furthermore, the embodiment is advantages in that the symmetrical shape of the barrier results in that the one and same barrier is applicable for any sewage system, nondependent on whether the vermin may enter one way or the opposite way according to a longitudinal extension of the barrier. The at least first shutter may always be positioned so that the vermin is prevented from entering without the need for different barriers with differently positioned shutters, one barrier for each way of possible entering of the vermin.

[0053] In an embodiment there is provided a barrier, wherein the first shutter is arranged for acting as an opener of the second shutter, the first shutter rotating towards the downstream direction until engaging with the second shutter, thereby allowing the second shutter to rotate towards the downstream direction from a first, closed position (v) to a third, open position (w), so as to reduce damming of liquid in front of the barrier on the side facing the first shutter by allowing a flow of liquid passing in a downstream direction from the first shutter towards the second shutter.

[0054] In a second aspect, the invention further relates to a system comprising at least one substantially vertical pipe and at least one substantially horizontal pipe, such as a sewage system, said system comprising a barrier as defined in any one of the preceding claims, the barrier being arranged for preventing vermin from passing the barrier, preferably preventing vermin from passing the barrier in at least one direction, at least in an upstream direction, and allowing a flow of liquid in at least one direction, preferably allowing a flow of liquid in at least a downstream direction.

[0055] This second aspect of the invention is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous in that the system provides a reliable and effective system for preventing a vermin to pass through the barrier.

[0056] In a third aspect, the invention further relates to a method for preventing vermin from passing through a pipe, such as a sewage pipe, in at least one direction in the pipe, said method comprising installing a barrier according to any of the preceding claims in the pipe.

[0057] This third aspect of the invention is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous in that the barrier may easily and quickly be installed by a non-professional person, without any specific skills within sewage systems. Thus, the barrier may be installed by almost any gown-up person living in a private household or working in an industrial site, and wanting to install a barrier for vermin such as rats in an already established sewage pipe system of the private household or the industrial site.

[0058] The first, second and third aspect of the present invention may each be combined with any of the other aspects. These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0059] The barrier and method according to the invention will now be described in more detail with regard to the accompanying figures. The figures show one way of implementing the present invention and is not to be construed as being limiting to other possible embodiments falling within the scope of the attached claim set.

FIG. 1a and 1b illustrates in 3D a barrier suitable for installation in a narrow sewage pipe.

FIG. 2a illustrates a front or back view of a barrier.

FIG. 2b illustrates a front or back view of a barrier mounted in a pipe.

FIG. 3a illustrates a cross-section of a barrier with fastening elements in a passive position.

FIG. 3b illustrates a cross-section of a barrier with fastening elements in an active position.

FIG. 4a illustrates a cross-section of a barrier with fastening elements in a passive position.

FIG. 4b illustrates a cross-section of a barrier with fastening elements moving from a passive position toward an active position.

FIG. 4c illustrates a cross-section of a barrier with fastening elements in an active position.

FIG. 5a illustrates a cross-section of a barrier while being lowered into a narrow vertical pipe.

FIG. 5b illustrates a cross-section of a barrier being ready to begin fastening to a horizontal pipe.

FIG. 5c illustrates a cross-section of a barrier being fastened to a horizontal pipe.

FIG. 6a illustrates a barrier while being lowered into a narrow vertical pipe.

FIG. 6b illustrates a barrier being ready to begin fastening to a horizontal pipe.

FIG. 6c illustrates a barrier being fastened to a horizontal pipe.

FIG. 7 illustrates a top-view of a mounted barrier with positions elements.

FIG. 8a and 8b illustrates a locking mechanism.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN EMBODIMENT

[0060] FIG. 1 illustrates a vermin barrier 100 suitable for installation in an associated sewage system 200 comprising at least one substantially vertical sewage pipe 210 and at least one substantially horizontal sewage pipe 220 and having limited space in the vertical pipe of the sewage system, said barrier allowing a sewage flow within the horizontal sewage pipe to pass the barrier in a first direction 201 of the horizontal sewage pipe, the first direction being a downstream direction, and for preventing vermins, such as rats, from passing the barrier in a second direction 202 being opposite to the first direction upon installation of the barrier in the horizontal sewage pipe, the second direction being an upstream direction, the barrier comprising;

• a mounting part 105, said mounting part is illustrated as a mounting tube and comprises a spring 106 positioned above the support structure.
• a support structure 110 with a first hinge 108 and a second hinge 109, said first and second hinge being either directly or indirectly positioned in the support structure,
• a first shutter 101 pivotably mounted on the first hinge,
• a second shutter 102 pivotably mounted on the second hinge,
  wherein at least a part of an edge of the first shutter and/or the second shutter are toothed,
• at least two fastening elements 120 being rotatable mounted on the mounting part, above the support structure 110, said fastening elements each having at least one first protrusion 121 on the upper surface of the fastening elements, said first protrusions of the fastening elements are shaped at least partly with a substantially rounded edge, and

wherein the fastening elements 120 can take a passive and an active position:

• in the passive position, being the position of the barrier before mounting in a sewage pipe, wherein the fastening elements are not activated for fastening (See FIG. 3a), and
• in the active position, being the position of the barrier after mounting in a sewage pipe, wherein the fastening elements are activated and at least the first protrusions of the fastening elements are engaging with the upper part of the substantially horizontal sewage pipe via repulsive force so as to fasten the barrier securely in the sewage pipe (illustrated in FIG. 5c and 6c).

The position illustrated in FIG. 1 is the passive position.

[0061] Furthermore, FIG. 1a and 1b illustrates two wings 111, 112, each of the wings substantially forming the support structure 110. The wings is wider at the top (T) and at the bottom than in the middle (M) of the wings - when seeing the barrier from the sides (S). The variation of the width (W) allows insertion of the barrier 100 into a sewage system 200 with a narrow vertical pipe 210, preferably the wings of the support structure is shaped with inwardly curves.

[0062] Moreover, FIG. 1a and 1b illustrates a vermin barrier 100 comprising at least one positioning element 107 for securing a centralized mounting of the barrier relative to the vertical sewage pipe 210 - the at least one positioning element is protruding at least substantially horizontally from the insertion part 105. In the FIG. 1 two positioning elements 107 are illustrated each having a shape that at least substantially match the corresponding inner surface of a vertical pipe 210, such as a shape as an ax-head.

[0063] Also, FIG. 1a and 1b illustrates a vermin barrier with a support structure 105 comprising at least two support protrusions 114 mounted on the upper part of the support structure for supporting and engaging with the at least two fastening elements 120 at least when the barrier is being mounted in a sewage pipe and the fastenings elements are being in an active position.

[0064] FIG. 2a illustrates a front (F) or back (B) view of a barrier 100 being in a passive position.
The support structure 110 of the barrier illustrated comprises two wings 111,112, said wings substantially matches the shape of an inner surface of a horizontal pipe 220 when seeing the barrier from the front (F) or the back (B), the shape preferably being substantially circular.
The wings of the support structure has a substantially permanent shape as illustrated. Moreover, the support structure comprises a gap 113 at the bottom part of the barrier.
Furthermore FIG. 2a illustrates a barrier seen from the back (B) and the front (F) being at least substantially symmetrical around a center axis.

[0065] FIG. 2b illustrates a front or back view of a barrier mounted in a pipe - thereby being in an active position.

[0066] FIG. 3a and 3b illustrates a cross-section of a barrier 100 with fastening elements 120 in a passive position and in an active position.
In the barrier illustrated the fastening elements 120 can take a passive and an active position:

• in the passive position, being the position of the barrier before mounting in a sewage pipe, wherein the fastening elements are not activated for fastening, and wherein the fastenings elements hang from the hinges where at they are rotable mounted.
• in the active position, being the position of the barrier after mounting in a sewage pipe, wherein the fastening elements are activated and at least the first protrusions 121 of the fastening elements are engaging with the upper part of the substantially horizontal sewage pipe 220 via repulsive force (pipe not illustrated) so as to fasten the barrier securely in the sewage pipe.

[0067] One way of going from the passive to the active position is, when the mounting part 105 is rotated, preferably with an associated extended installation arm, to move the fastening elements from the passive position, to a more horizontal position where in fastening elements are clamping to the inner surface of the pipe - being the active position.
The spring 106 provides a soft tensioning or tightening of the fastening elements 120.

[0068] Furthermore, FIG. 3 illustrates the barrier seen from the sides (S) and wherein the barrier 100 is at least substantially symmetrical around a center axis with an exception being the two shutters 101, 102.

[0069] FIG. 4a-4c illustrates a cross-section of a barrier 100 with fastening elements 120 in a passive position (figure 4a), fastening elements moving from a passive position toward an active position (figure 4b) and fastening elements in an active position (figure 4c).
The barrier's support structure 110 comprises at least two support protrusions 114 mounted on the upper part of the support structure for supporting and engaging with the at least two fastening elements 120 at least when the barrier is being mounted in a sewage pipe and the fastenings elements are being in an active position.

[0070] Moreover, FIG. 4a-c illustrates the at least two fastening elements each having a second protrusion 122 at the lower surface of the fastening elements 120, said second protrusion having at least partly a substantially rounded edge. However, the edges might have any other shape.

[0071] Also, it is illustrated in FIG. 4c that two supporting protrusions 114, protruding from the upper part of the support structure, support and engage with the second protrusions 122 of the fastening elements 120 when the barrier is being mounted in a sewage pipe and the fastenings elements are being in an active position.

[0072] FIG. 5a-5c illustrates a cross-section of a barrier 100 while being lowered into a narrow vertical pipe 210 and the barrier is being in a passive position (figure 5a), a barrier being ready to begin fastening to a horizontal pipe still being in a passive position (figure 5b) and a barrier being fastened to a horizontal pipe and being in a active position (figure 5c).
It is illustrated that a barrier - when being mounted in a sewage pipe in an active position - the lowest part(s) of the support structure 110 engage with the inner surface of the horizontal sewage 220 pipe facilitating the barrier not to move down in a vertical direction when being mounted and used in a sewage pipe.

[0073] Furthermore, FIG 5a-c illustrates a system comprising at least one substantially vertical pipe 210 and at least one substantially horizontal pipe 220, such as a sewage system 200, said system comprising a barrier 100, the barrier being arranged for preventing vermin from passing the barrier, preferably preventing vermin from passing the barrier in at least one direction being the upstream direction 202, and allowing a flow of liquid in at least one direction being the downstream direction 201.

[0074] Moreover, FIG 5a-c illustrates a method for preventing vermins from passing through a pipe 220, such as a sewage pipe, in at least one direction in the pipe, said method comprising installing a barrier according to any of the preceding claims in the pipe.

[0075] FIG. 6a-6c illustrates a cross-section through the pipe system 200 wherein a barrier 100 is being lowered into a narrow vertical pipe 210 (FIG. 6), a barrier is being ready to begin fastening to a horizontal pipe 220 (FIG. 6b) and a barrier is being fastened to a horizontal pipe (FIG. 6c).

[0076] FIG. 7 illustrate a top-view of a mounted barrier 100 with positions elements 107, wherein the barrier comprises two positioning elements 107 each having a shape that at least substantially match the corresponding inner surface of a vertical pipe 210 for securing a centralized mounting of the barrier relative to the vertical sewage pipe. The positioning elements 107 are protruding at least substantially horizontally from the mounting part 105.

[0077] FIG. 8a and 8b illustrate a locking mechanism 300 to be positioned within the barrier 100 and between the two shutters 101,102 of the barrier.
The locking mechanism comprises:

• a first part 301 of the locking mechanism, the first part being a blocking mechanism mounted on, or near, the first hinge, the blocking mechanism being positioned between, or partly between, the first 101 and the second 102 shutter, and
• a second part 302 of the locking mechanism, the second part being formed as a protrusion from, or near, the top of the second shutter, preferably form as a hook, and
  wherein the first part and/or the second part of the locking mechanism forms separate parts from the first and/or the second shutter, respectively, and wherein - when the first shutter 101 is in a closed position - the second part 302 of the locking mechanism 300 is capable of passing the first part 301 of the locking mechanism so that the second shutter 102 is rotatable to a first, closed position (v).

[0078] FIG. 8a illustrates the locking mechanism 300 when the shutters 101, 102 are not tampered with by a vermin and thereby illustrates the locking mechanism in a passive position, while FIG. 8b illustrates the locking mechanism 300, when a vermin tampers with the shutters and try to open the second shutter 102. The shutters are locked for being opened by the locking mechanism and FIG. 8b thereby illustrates the locking mechanism in use - in an active position.

[0079] Although the present invention has been described in connection with the specified embodiments, it should not be construed as being in any way limited to the presented examples. The scope of the present invention is set out by the accompanying claim set. In the context of the claims, the terms "comprising" or "comprises" do not exclude other possible elements or steps. Also, the mentioning of references such as "a" or "an" etc. should not be construed as excluding a plurality. The use of reference signs in the claims with respect to elements indicated in the figures shall also not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. Furthermore, individual features mentioned in different claims, may possibly be advantageously combined, and the mentioning of these features in different claims does not exclude that a combination of features is not possible and advantageous.

Claims

1. A vermin barrier (100) suitable for installation in an associated sewage system (200), said associated sewage system comprising at least one substantially vertical sewage pipe (210) and at least one substantially horizontal sewage pipe (220) and having limited space in the vertical pipe of the sewage system, said barrier (100) allowing a sewage flow within the horizontal sewage pipe to pass the barrier in a first direction (201) of the horizontal sewage pipe, the first direction being a downstream direction (230), and for preventing vermins, such as rats, from passing the barrier in a second direction (202) being opposite to the first direction upon installation of the barrier in the horizontal sewage pipe, the second direction being an upstream direction (240), the barrier comprising;

- a mounting part (105),

- a support structure (110) with a first hinge (108) and a second hinge (109), said first and second hinge being either directly or indirectly positioned in the support structure,

- a first shutter (101) pivotably mounted on the first hinge,

- a second shutter (102) pivotably mounted on the second hinge,

- at least two fastening elements (120) being rotatable mounted on the mounting part above the support structure, said fastening elements each having at least one first protrusion (121) on the upper surface of the fastening elements, and

wherein the fastening elements (120) can take a passive and an active position:

- in the passive position, being the position of the barrier before mounting in a sewage pipe, wherein the fastening elements (120) are not activated for fastening, and

- in the active position, being the position of the barrier after mounting in a sewage pipe, wherein the fastening elements (120) are activated and at least the first protrusions of the fastening elements are engaging with the upper part of the substantially horizontal sewage pipe (220) via repulsive force so as to fasten the barrier (100) securely in the sewage pipe.

2. A barrier (100) according to claim 1, wherein the support structure (110) comprises two wings (111, 112), said wings substantially matches the shape of the corresponding inner surface of the horizontal pipe (220) when seeing the barrier from the front (F) or the back (B), the shape preferably being substantially circular.

3. A barrier (100) according to claim 2, wherein each of the wings (111, 112) are wider at the top (T) and at the bottom (B) than in the middle (M) of the wings - when seeing the barrier from the side (S), preferably the wings of the support structure (110) is shaped with inwardly curves (215).

4. A barrier (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support structure (110) has a substantially permanent shape.

5. A barrier (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support structure (110) comprises a gap (113) at the bottom part of the barrier.

6. A barrier (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein - when being mounted in a sewage pipe - the lowest part(s) of the support structure (110) engage with the inner surface of the horizontal sewage pipe (220) facilitating the barrier not to move down in a vertical direction when being mounted and used in a sewage pipe system (200).

7. A barrier (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first protrusions (121) of the fastening elements (120) are shaped at least partly with a substantially rounded edge.

8. A barrier (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the mounting part (105) comprises at least one spring (106) positioned above the support structure (110).

9. A barrier (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the support structure (110) comprises at least two support protrusions (114) mounted on the upper part of the support structure for supporting and engaging with the at least two fastening elements (120) at least when the barrier is being mounted in a sewage pipe and the fastenings elements are being in an active position.

10. A barrier (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least two fastening elements (120) are each having a second protrusion (122) at the lower surface of the fastening elements, said second protrusion having at least partly a substantially rounded edge.

11. A barrier (100) according to claim 9 and 10, wherein two supporting protrusions (114), protruding from the upper part of the support structure (110), support and engage with the second protrusions (122) of the fastening elements (120) at least when the barrier is being mounted in a sewage pipe and the fastenings elements are being in an active position.

12. A barrier (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the barrier further comprises at least one positioning element (107) for securing a centralized mounting of the barrier relative to the vertical sewage pipe (210).

13. A barrier (100) according to claim 12, wherein the at least one positioning element (107) is protruding at least substantially horizontally from the mounting part (105).

14. A barrier (100) according to claim 12 and 13, wherein the barrier comprises at least two positioning elements (107) each having a shape that at least substantially match the corresponding inner surface of a vertical pipe (210).

15. A barrier (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the barrier further comprises a locking mechanism (300).

16. A barrier (100) according to claim 15, wherein the locking mechanism (300) comprises:

- a first part (301) of the locking mechanism, the first part being a blocking mechanism mounted on, or near, the first hinge, the blocking mechanism being positioned between, or partly between, the first (101) and the second (102) shutter, and

- a second part (302) of the locking mechanism, the second part being formed as a protrusion from, or near, the top of the second shutter (102), preferably form as a hook, and
wherein the first part (301) and/or the second part (302) of the locking mechanism (300) forms separate parts from the first and/or the second shutter, respectively, and
wherein - when the first shutter (101) is in a closed position - the second part (302) of the locking mechanism is capable of passing the first part (301) of the locking mechanism so that the second shutter (102) is rotatable to a first, closed position (v).

17. A barrier (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least a part of an edge of the first shutter (101) and/or the second shutter (102) are toothed.

18. A barrier (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the barrier seen from the back (B) and the front (F) are substantially symmetrical around a center axis,
and/or
wherein the barrier seen from the sides (S) is substantially symmetrical around a center axis with an exception being the two shutters.

19. A system comprising at least one substantially vertical pipe (210) and at least one substantially horizontal pipe (220), such as a sewage system (200), said system comprising a barrier (100) as defined in any one of the preceding claims, the barrier being arranged for preventing vermin from passing the barrier, preferably preventing vermin from passing the barrier in at least one direction, at least in an upstream direction (240), and allowing a flow of liquid in at least one direction, preferably allowing a flow of liquid in at least a downstream direction (230).

20. A method for preventing vermin from passing through a pipe, such as a sewage pipe (220), in at least one direction in the pipe, said method comprising installing a barrier (100) according to any of the preceding claims in the pipe.

Drawing