A GULLY

Abstract

 Gullies comprising a hollow body comprising an inlet (101) and outlet (102), and a rib structure having a pair of first circumferential ribs forming a cross configuration.

Description

Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a gully. The gully comprises a hollow body comprising an inlet for receiving a fluid to be drained, and an outlet for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid.

Background art

[0002] Gullies, or storm drains, are used to drain fluids such as rainwater from surfaces on streets, parking lots, footpaths, etc. A gully comprises a gully pot that is usually located below surface level when a gully is installed. A gully usually also comprises a grating located approximately on surface level. Rainwater can enter the pot through an inlet covered by the gutter. A liquid such as rainwater may be filtered inside of the gully pot and then discharged from the gully through an outlet port connected to a drain pipe. The drain pipe may, e.g., lead to the sewer system, a retention and/or infiltration facility, a river, or a lake, etc.

[0003] Due to harsh environmental conditions, such as heavy vehicles (e.g., trucks, lorries, etc.), construction works, heavy rains, etc., gullies experience vibrations and/or pressures that can compromise the function and/or integrity of the gullies (e.g., fracturing or breaking of the gullies), rendering the gullies ineffective.

[0004] From time to time, gullies need to be cleaned. On the one hand, debris such as sand and leaves filling up the gully may need to be removed from the gully. On the other hand, a part of the gully, and the outlet, in particular, may become blocked. Therefore, a worker performing maintenance may need to open the gully, e.g., opening the gutter grid/cover lid and also take out removable components (if there are any) from the gully, such as a filter. A removable component such as a filter therefore ideally easily fits through the gully inlet. The worker may then, e.g., suck out debris from the gully using negative air pressure and/or may use a hose to eject pressurized water through the gully (e.g., through the outlet) to wash away blocking substances. In certain situations and/or geographical locations (e.g., based on the season and/or due to abundance of plants, dust, etc.), a large filter pore size is sufficient to ensure that debris does not block a part of the gully and the outlet. In other situations and/or locations, a smaller filter pore size is desirable. Additionally, in certain situations and/or geographical locations, gullies of different shapes and sizes may be needed.

[0005] Often times, amphibians (e.g., frogs, salamanders, caecilians, etc.) or rodents fall into gullies and get stuck with no means to exit from the gullies. This is undesirable because they may block part of the gully, such as the outlet, they may be carrying numerous bacteria, viruses, parasites etc. that may be hazardous and infect a person, and importantly because the needless animal deaths are undesirable and may cause harm to the ecosystem.

[0006] There is a need for gullies that can provide improved integrity (mechanical strength). Furthermore, there is a need for gullies that can provide filters that can be adapted and adjusted for specific situations and/or locations. Furthermore, there is a need for gullies that can provide a safe and reliable method to remove amphibians and/or animals which have fallen therein. Furthermore, there is a need for gullies that can easily be adjusted for specific situations and/or locations, while ensuring the function and/or integrity of the gullies (e.g., water tightness). Furthermore there is a need for gullies that can easily be produced in a cost-efficient manner for different situations and needs, such as sizes or outlet diameters.

[0007] It is an object of the invention to provide a gully that fulfills at least one of the above mentioned needs. These and other objects may be accomplished by the invention described in the following text and figures.

Summary of the invention

First aspect of the invention

[0008] In a first aspect, which may be combined with the other aspects and embodiments described herein, the present invention provides a gully comprising a hollow body (103; 203) comprising:

• an inlet for receiving a fluid to be drained,
• an outlet for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid, and
• an enclosing wall and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs and second ribs, the first ribs extending circumferentially along the outer surface, and the second ribs extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs,

characterized in that the rib structure comprises a pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration on the outer surface of the body.

[0009] Preferably, the body is a substantially cylindrical hollow body, which may taper over at least part of the body. The body extends longitudinally in the vertical direction as seen during normal installation and use of the gully.

[0010] An advantage is that the rib structure, particularly the cross configuration, provides reinforcement to the gully to withstand vibrations and/or pressures transferred to the gully. The cross configuration has a special technical effect of dividing forces caused by the vibrations and/or pressures into two directions, namely the directions of the pair of ribs forming the cross configuration. Thereby, the integrity or mechanical strength of the gully is improved. When the gully is installed into the ground, the rib structure divides or redirects the forces caused by the vibrations and/or pressures onto the surrounding soil, which the present inventors have found to contribute to preventing an amount of force on the bottom section of the gully that would cause failure of the gully in case forces cannot efficiently be distributed to surrounding soil.

[0011] The wording "rib" as used herein means a protrusion, e.g. a fin plate. The expression "a plurality of ribs" does not include corrugations.

[0012] The expression "forming a cross configuration" as used herein means that the ribs of the first pair or the projections of the trajectories of the ribs of the first pair intersect. The pair of first ribs are such that they are substantially parallel in a zone circumferentially adjacent to a zone in which the ribs or the projections of the rib trajectories intersect. It will be understood by the skilled person in the context of the present disclosure that it is sufficient if the projections of the rib trajectories intersect such that a small interruption of the ribs caused by e.g. a joint between adjacent modular gully body parts is still considered a cross configuration. In other words, the pair of first ribs together may form a cross-shaped rib or substantial part thereof, e.g. without the center of the cross-shaped rib. Each leg of the cross-shape is formed by one first rib, or multiple aligned sections of the first rib and the aligned interruptions therebetween, wherein the leg of the first rib intersects with the leg of another first rib. The angle between the intersecting legs is not limited to 90 degrees and can range from 1 to 179 degrees, but is preferably within the range of 60 to 120 degrees, more preferably 70 to 110 degrees, most preferably 80 to 100 degrees, for example about 90 degrees. One pair of first ribs may form a cross configuration at one or more, such as two or more zones on the outer surface of the body. For example, the zones being at a different circumferential position but at the same height of the gully. The two or more cross configurations are preferably regularly distributed around the circumference of the gully. For example, when the pair of first ribs forms a cross configuration at two zones on the outer surface of the body which are at a different circumferential position but at the same height of the gully, then they are preferably placed at a 180 degree circumferential distance from each other. For example, when the pair of first ribs forms a cross configuration at three zones on the outer surface of the body which are at a different circumferential position but at the same height of the gully, then they are preferably placed at a 120 degree circumferential distance from each other. For example, when the pair of first ribs forms a cross configuration at four zones on the outer surface of the body which are at a different circumferential position but at the same height of the gully, then they are preferably placed at a 90 degree circumferential distance from each other.

[0013] In embodiments of the invention, the body comprises a plurality of modular body parts.

[0014] In embodiments of the invention, each rib of said pair of first ribs circumferentially extends along two adjacent (i.e., longitudinally adjacent) modular body parts of the plurality of modular body parts. Thus, in embodiments of the invention, said cross configuration extends along two adjacent modular body parts of the plurality of modular body parts.

[0015] In embodiments of the invention, the gully comprises at least one modular body part which comprises at least two first ribs which each form part of a different cross configuration, preferably comprises at least two first ribs which each form part of a cross configuration extending along two adjacent modular parts. Hence, in such a setup the gully comprises at least 3 modular body parts, but may comprise more modular body parts, such as 4, 5 or 6. It will be understood that the two first ribs which each form part of a different cross configuration will form a complementary diamond-like configuration at one or more first locations on the outer surface of the body in case the cross configurations of each rib are located at the same circumferential position.

[0016] In typical and thus highly preferred embodiments of the invention, the inlet and the outlet are comprised in a top half of the body. In case of a modular gully as described herein, the inlet and outlet are preferably in the top modular body part.

[0017] In preferred embodiments of the invention, the body comprises a portion in the top half of the body which tapers inwardly towards the inlet, wherein the inlet is preferably a substantially horizontal opening in the top half of the body, preferably in the top modular body part in case of a modular gully as described herein. The substantially horizontal opening is to be understood as being substantially horizontal during normal installation and use of the gully. In other words, it is substantially parallel to the bottom surface of the gulley in case the gully body is substantially cylindrical.

[0018] In embodiments of the invention, the rib structure comprises a pair of joint ribs circumferentially extending between the pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration. Preferably the pair of joint ribs are parallel.

[0019] In embodiments of the invention, the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part, and wherein preferably the pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration intersect the pair of joint ribs.

[0020] In embodiments of the invention,

• the rib structure comprises at least two pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration,
• the gully body comprises a plurality of modular body parts,
• the gully comprises at least one modular body part which comprises at least two first ribs which each form part of a different cross configuration, said two first ribs which each form part of a different cross configuration being located adjacent to each other,
• the rib structure comprises at least two pairs of parallel joint ribs, wherein a pair of parallel joint ribs circumferentially extends between each of the pairs of first ribs forming a cross configuration, and
• the distance between two adjacent first ribs which each form part of a different cross configuration is larger at a first circumferential location not being the circumferential location of the cross configuration than at a second circumferential location not being the circumferential location of the cross configuration.

[0021] In the context of the present invention, the distance between ribs at a circumferential location should be construed as the smallest distance between adjacent ribs at the circumferential location. The term "circumferential location" as used in the context of the present invention refers to the location on a circle when a top view (e.g. of the body or parts thereof) is projected onto a plane.

[0022] In this way, a widening of the two adjacent first ribs which each form part of a different cross configuration is achieved at other locations than the cross configuration, which is useful as a foot support or hand support. It is understood that the transition from the distance at a first circumferential location not being the circumferential location of the cross configuration to the distance at a second circumferential location not being the circumferential location of the cross configuration is effected such that that the pair of adjacent first ribs which each form part of a different cross configuration are substantially parallel at the first circumferential location not being the circumferential location of the cross configuration and at the second location not being the circumferential location of the cross configuration.

[0023] In embodiments of the invention, the outlet is located at the same circumferential location as a cross configuration.

[0024] In embodiments of the invention, the outlet is located at a first circumferential location between a pair of first ribs which are separated by a first distance D1, wherein the first distance D1 is larger at the first circumferential location than at a second circumferential location (circumferentially) adjacent to the first circumferential location.

[0025] In embodiments of the invention, the gully further comprises an insert selected from an odor lock and/or a filter mounted to the hollow body and extending longitudinally inside the body. The skilled person understands that for an insert to function as an odor lock, it should have an enclosing wall which has a closed portion extending beyond the position of the outlet. In normal conditions, the water level will be below the position of the outlet, and the enclosing wall of the odor lock extends sufficiently far into the gully body such as to be submerged and thereby preventing odor (e.g. sewer odor in case the outlet is connected to the sewers) to escape the gully. The odor lock typically does not extend further than at most half the length of the gully (typically it extends at least 4 cm below the inner diameter of the outlet, such as 4-15 cm) such that during very dry periods, the water level may still drop below the odor lock. An advantage of employing a filter is that aside from limiting entry of debris into the outlet (and e.g. connected sewer system or infiltration facility), cleaning with a vacuum suction hose can be performed with the filter in place as most debris will be contained within the filter interior.

[0026] In embodiments of the invention, the gully further comprises a filter mounted to the hollow body for filtering the fluid before draining, the filter extending longitudinally inside the body. Preferably the body comprises a plurality of modular body parts and the filter comprises a plurality of modular filter parts, wherein the bottom of each modular filter part does not extend beyond the bottom of a respective modular body part in which the modular filter part is located. The enclosing wall of the filter may be closed in a top part of the filter such that the filter may have the dual function of filter and an odor lock. In such embodiments it is preferred that the filter is modular and the enclosing wall of the top modular part is closed (i.e. free of perforation or pores). The enclosing wall of the filter may be perforated in a top part of the filter such that the filter may have the dual function of filter and aerator. This is desirable in some applications where there is no need for an odor lock (e.g. when the outlet is connected to a rainwater storage and/or infiltration facility) and brings the additional advantage that by including perforations in the top filter part, a significant aeration of system connected to the outlet is achieved. This is an important advantage in case of large amounts of rainfall needing to be absorbed by a rainwater storage and/or infiltration field. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the odor lock or filter are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0027] In embodiments of the invention, the gully comprises an insert selected from an odor lock and/or a filter mounted to the hollow body and extending longitudinally inside the body, the insert further comprising at least one fastening structure provided at an inner surface of the enclosing wall of the insert, the at least one fastening structure being configured to engage an amphibian escape means inside the gully. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the amphibian escape means and associated fastening structure are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0028] In embodiments of the invention, the gully body comprises a plurality of modular body parts and the gully further comprises a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part, wherein the bottom joint rib comprises a bottom locking means complementary to a top locking means comprised in the top joint rib, wherein the gully comprises a seal deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall, the bottom joint rib and the top joint rib. Preferably the space is further delimited by the bottom locking means. Said locking means are configured to connect or lock the modular body parts to each other by locking the complementary top and bottom locking means to each other. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the locking means are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0029] In embodiments of the invention, the gully body comprises a plurality of modular body parts and the gully further comprises a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs (preferably extending between the pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration), wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part, wherein one of the first and second modular body part comprises a first connector part which is complementary to a second connector part comprised in the other of the first and second modular body parts, wherein the first connector part is a receiving slot provided in the enclosing wall of said one of the first and second modular body parts, the receiving slot being formed by a lateral protrusion (preferably an outward lateral protrusion) of the enclosing wall and configured to receive the second connector part of the other of said first and second modular body parts, wherein the second connector part is a protrusion of part of the enclosing wall extending from the outer surface of the other of said first and second modular body parts. Preferably, the first connector part is comprised in the first modular body part, and the second connector part is comprised in the second modular body part. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the connector parts are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

Second aspect of the invention

[0030] In a second aspect, which may be combined with the other aspects and embodiments described herein, the present invention provides a gully comprising a hollow body comprising:

• an inlet for receiving a fluid to be drained,
• an outlet for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid, and
• an enclosing wall and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs and second ribs, the first ribs extending circumferentially along the outer surface, and the second ribs extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs,

characterized in that the outlet is located at a first circumferential location between a pair of first ribs which are separated by a first distance D1, wherein the first distance D1 is larger at the first circumferential location than at a second circumferential location adjacent to the first circumferential location.

[0031] This has the particular advantage that a manufacturer can use a single mold defining the rib structure of the gully, which is typically very expensive, and switch between different outlet diameters using one of a plurality of different mold inserts to make an outlet of a specific size from a plurality of different sizes. This provides the manufacturer the ability to accommodate different outlet sizes without having to change the distance between the ribs and thus without having to change the entirety of the mold. This provides a lot of flexibility and advantages in manufacturing. Hence, the gully according to the second aspect of the invention is highly preferably injection molded.

[0032] In embodiments of the invention, the rib structure comprises a pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration at one or more first zones on the outer surface of the body. Preferably the outlet is located at the same circumferential location as a cross configuration. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to cross configuration are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0033] In embodiments of the invention, the outlet is located at the first circumferential location between a pair of second ribs which are separated by a second distance D2 larger than a third distance D3 separating another pair of second ribs at a circumferential location other than the first circumferential location.

[0034] In embodiments of the invention, the body comprises a plurality of modular body parts.

[0035] In embodiments of the invention, the outlet is located in a top half of the body, preferably in the top modular body part.

[0036] In embodiments of the invention, the outlet is located in the top modular body part, wherein the first distance D1 is larger than a fourth distance D4 separating another pair of first ribs circumferentially extending in a modular body part other than the modular body part wherein the outlet is located, preferably other than the top modular body part.

[0037] In embodiments of the invention, the outlet is located in the top modular body part, wherein the second distance D2 is larger than a fifth distance D5 separating a pair of second ribs located at the same circumferential position than the outlet in a modular body part other than the top modular body part.

[0038] In embodiments of the invention, the pair of first ribs are substantially parallel in the first and second circumferential locations.

[0039] In embodiments of the invention, the outlet is cylindrical and extends radially from the outer surface of the body, the outlet has an outer diameter within the range of 5-25 cm, such as 10, 11, 12.5, 16 or 20 cm. It is highly preferred that the first distance D1 and the second distance D2 are such that an outlet having any outer diameter within the range of 11-17 cm can be accommodated at the first circumferential location between a pair of first ribs separated by a distance D1 and between a pair of second ribs separated by a distance D2, i.e. without overlapping with the ribs. In some embodiments the first distance D1 and the second distance D2 are such that an outlet having any outer diameter within the range of 10-20 cm or within the range of 5-25 cm can be accommodated at the first circumferential location between a pair of first ribs separated by a distance D1 and between a pair of second ribs separated by a distance D2, i.e. without overlapping with the ribs. In these embodiments it is preferred that the gully comprises an outlet having an outer diameter of 11 cm or 12.5 cm or 16 cm, preferably 12.5 cm. Hence, in a highly preferred combination of embodiments

• the outlet is located at the first circumferential location between a pair of second ribs which are separated by a second distance D2 larger than a third distance D3 separating another pair of second ribs at a circumferential location other than the first circumferential location,
• the first distance D1 and the second distance D2 are such that an outlet having any outer diameter within the range of 11-17 cm can be accommodated at the first circumferential location between a pair of first ribs separated by a distance D1 and between a pair of second ribs separated by a distance D2, i.e. without overlapping with the ribs, and
• preferably the gully comprises an outlet having an outer diameter of 11 cm or 12.5 cm or 16 cm, preferably 12.5 cm.

[0040] In embodiments of the invention, the gully further comprises an insert selected from an odor lock and/or a filter mounted to the hollow body and extending longitudinally inside the body. The skilled person understands that for an insert to function as an odor lock, it should have an enclosing wall which has a closed portion extending beyond the position of the outlet. In normal conditions, the water level will be below the position of the outlet, and the enclosing wall of the odor lock extends sufficiently far into the gully body such as to be submerged and thereby preventing odor (e.g. sewer odor in case the outlet is connected to the sewers) to escape the gully. The odor lock typically does not extend further than at most half the length of the gully such that during very dry periods, the water level may still drop below the odor lock. An advantage of employing a filter is that aside from limiting entry of debris into the outlet (and e.g. connected sewer system or infiltration facility), cleaning with a vacuum suction hose can be performed with the filter in place as most debris will be contained within the filter interior.

[0041] In embodiments of the invention, the gully further comprises a filter mounted to the hollow body for filtering the fluid before draining, the filter extending longitudinally inside the body. Preferably the body comprises a plurality of modular body parts and the filter comprises a plurality of modular filter parts, wherein the bottom of each modular filter part does not extend beyond the bottom of a respective modular body part in which the modular filter part is located. The enclosing wall of the filter may be closed in a top part of the filter such that the filter may have the dual function of filter and an odor lock. In such embodiments it is preferred that the filter is modular and the enclosing wall of the top modular part is closed (i.e. free of perforation or pores). The enclosing wall of the filter may be perforated in a top part of the filter such that the filter may have the dual function of filter and aerator. This is desirable in some applications where there is no need for an odor lock (e.g. when the outlet is connected to a rainwater storage and/or infiltration facility) and brings the additional advantage that by including perforations in the top filter part, a significant aeration of system connected to the outlet is achieved. This is an important advantage in case of large amounts of rainfall needing to be absorbed by a rainwater storage and/or infiltration field. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the odor lock or filter are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0042] In embodiments of the invention, the gully comprises an insert selected from an odor lock and/or a filter mounted to the hollow body and extending longitudinally inside the body, the insert further comprising at least one fastening structure provided at an inner surface of the enclosing wall of the insert, the at least one fastening structure being configured to engage an amphibian escape means inside the gully. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the amphibian escape means and associated fastening structure are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0043] In embodiments of the invention, the gully body comprises a plurality of modular body parts and the gully further comprises a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part, wherein the bottom joint rib comprises a bottom locking means complementary to a top locking means comprised in the top joint rib, wherein the gully comprises a seal deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall, the bottom joint rib and the top joint rib. Preferably the space is further delimited by the bottom locking means. Said locking means are configured to connect or lock the modular body parts to each other by locking the complementary top and bottom locking means to each other. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the locking means are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0044] In embodiments of the invention, the gully body comprises a plurality of modular body parts and the gully further comprises a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part, wherein one of the first and second modular body part comprises a first connector part which is complementary to a second connector part comprised in the other of the first and second modular body parts, wherein the first connector part is a receiving slot provided in the enclosing wall of said one of the first and second modular body parts, the receiving slot being formed by a lateral protrusion (preferably an outward lateral protrusion) of the enclosing wall and configured to receive the second connector part of the other of said first and second modular body parts, wherein the second connector part is a protrusion of part of the enclosing wall extending from the outer surface of the other of said first and second modular body parts. Preferably, the first connector part is comprised in the first modular body part, and the second connector part is comprised in the second modular body part. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the connector parts are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

Third aspect of the invention

[0045] In a third aspect, which may be combined with the other aspects and embodiments described herein, the present invention provides a gully comprising a hollow body (103; 203) comprising:

• a plurality of modular body parts,
• an inlet for receiving a fluid to be drained, and
• an outlet for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid,

wherein the gully further comprises a filter mounted to the hollow body for filtering the fluid before draining, the filter extending longitudinally inside the body and comprising a plurality of modular filter parts,

wherein the bottom of each modular filter part does not extend beyond the bottom of the respective modular body part in which the modular filter part is located.

[0046] An advantage is that the gully provides a filter that can be easily adapted and adjusted to the size of the modular gully, thereby ensuring the effective functioning of the gully, particularly the filter, for specific situations and/or locations. Additionally, an advantage may be that the modular filter provides a more efficient and cost-effective way of replacing parts of the filter (e.g., due to a broken part).

[0047] Preferably, each of the plurality of modular filter parts has a length of less than or equal to the length of the respective modular body part in which the modular filter part is located. The length is measured longitudinally.

[0048] In embodiments of the invention, the total number of the modular filter parts comprised in the gully equals the total number of the modular body parts comprised in the gully.

[0049] In embodiments of the invention, the filter is substantially cylindrical.

[0050] In embodiments of the invention, the filter is configured to be inserted through the inlet from outside the gully. Preferably, when inserting the filter into the gully through the inlet, the filter rests on a second rim of the body without any locking mechanism necessary. The filter, particularly the top of the filter, comprises a first rim which rests on the second rim of the body. When the filter is inserted into the inlet, the bottom of the filter is preferably located from the bottom of the gully at a longitudinal distance of less than or equal to the largest diameter of the filtration holes (e.g. less than 20 mm, such as about 9 mm).

[0051] It will be understood by the skilled person that in order to perform the function of filtering the fluid before draining, at least one of the modular filter parts comprises a filtration part having a plurality of filtration holes.

[0052] In some embodiments the bottom modular filter part comprises a bottom enclosing wall such that the only fluid passage is through the plurality of filtration holes. This has the advantage that the filter can be emptied or cleaned by removal of the filter through the inlet and removing the debris accumulated on the bottom enclosing wall. In alternative embodiments the bottom modular filter part does not comprise a bottom enclosing wall but is simply open, thereby providing a throughflow opening. As explained above it is preferred that the bottom modular filter part is located close the bottom of the gully, for example at a longitudinal distance of less than 5 cm, less than 2 cm, or typically less than or equal to the largest diameter of the filtration holes. A sludge layer quickly forms which closes off the bottom of the filter, and there is no risk of damaging or failure of a bottom enclosing wall of a filter when performing cleaning or maintenance with a heavy-duty vacuum suction device.

[0053] The plurality of filtration holes in the filtration part in one of the modular filter parts may be distributed differently compared to the plurality of filtration holes in the filtration part in another of the modular filter parts, and/or the plurality of filtration holes in the filtration part in one of the modular filter parts may have different diameters compared to the plurality of filtration holes in the filtration part in another of the modular filter parts.

[0054] In embodiments of the invention the enclosing wall of the filter is closed in the top modular filter part such that the filter has the dual function of filter and an odour lock. In alternative embodiments of the invention the enclosing wall of the filter comprises a plurality of filtration holes in the top modular filter part such that the filter aerates the outlet. The advantages of these embodiments are explained herein elsewhere in the context of a different aspect of the invention and are equally applicable to this aspect of the invention.

[0055] In embodiments of the invention, the body comprises an enclosing wall and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs and second ribs, the first ribs extending circumferentially along the surface, and the second ribs extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs, wherein the rib structure comprises a pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration on the outer surface of the body. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to cross configuration are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0056] In embodiments of the invention, the plurality of filtration holes have a diameter in the range of 2-20 mm, typically about 9 mm.

[0057] In embodiments of the invention, the filter further comprising at least one fastening structure provided at an inner surface of the enclosing wall of the filter, the at least one fastening structure being configured to engage an amphibian escape means inside the gully. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the amphibian escape means and associated fastening structure are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0058] In embodiments of the invention, the gully body comprises a plurality of modular body parts and the gully further comprises a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part, wherein the bottom joint rib comprises a bottom locking means complementary to a top locking means comprised in the top joint rib, wherein the gully comprises a seal deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall, the bottom joint rib and the top joint rib. Preferably the space is further delimited by the bottom locking means. Said locking means are configured to connect or lock the modular body parts to each other by locking the complementary top and bottom locking means to each other. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the locking means are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0059] In embodiments of the invention, the gully body comprises a plurality of modular body parts and the gully further comprises a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part, wherein one of the first and second modular body part comprises a first connector part which is complementary to a second connector part comprised in the other of the first and second modular body parts, wherein the first connector part is a receiving slot provided in the enclosing wall of said one of the first and second modular body parts, the receiving slot being formed by a lateral protrusion (preferably an outward lateral protrusion) of the enclosing wall and configured to receive the second connector part of the other of said first and second modular body parts, wherein the second connector part is a protrusion of part of the enclosing wall extending from the outer surface of the other of said first and second modular body parts. Preferably, the first connector part is comprised in the first modular body part, and the second connector part is comprised in the second modular body part. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the connector parts are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0060] In embodiments of the invention, the gully further comprises a rigid filter mounted to the hollow body for filtering the fluid before draining, the rigid filter extending longitudinally inside the body, wherein the gully further comprises a flexible filter fastened to an outer surface of the rigid filter. In embodiments of the invention, the rigid filter comprises at least one flange protruding radially and provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the top of the rigid filter and a lower of the at least one flange, preferably the top modular filter part comprises the at least one flange provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the top of the top modular filter part and the lower of the at least one flange, more preferably the at least one flange is provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the first rim and the lower of the at least one flange. In embodiments of the invention, the rigid filter comprises two flanges protruding radially and provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the two flanges, preferably the top modular filter part comprises the two flanges provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the two flanges. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the fastening of a flexible filter to a rigid filter parts are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

Fourth aspect of the invention

[0061] In a fourth aspect, which may be combined with the other aspects and embodiments described herein, the present invention provides a gully comprising a hollow body comprising:

• an inlet for receiving a fluid to be drained, and
• an outlet for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid,
• optionally comprising an insert selected from an odor lock and/or a filter mounted to the hollow body and extending longitudinally inside the body,

wherein the gully or the insert further comprises a fastening structure provided at an inner surface of the gully or the insert, the at least one fastening structure configured to engage an amphibian escape means inside the gully.

[0062] An advantage is that the gully provides a safe means to engage an amphibian escape means inside the gully (e.g., by mounting or installing the escape means), thereby allowing amphibians and/or animals which have fallen therein to be easily removed, such as by allowing them to escape. A further advantage is that there is no need to manually drill a hole in the gully and screw or tie the escape means to the gully via the hole, or to glue or weld the escape means. Furthermore, this allows the escape means to be easily replaced.

[0063] In embodiments of the invention, the fastening structure comprises a pair of protrusions, preferably a pair of hook-shaped protrusions.

[0064] In embodiments of the invention, the gully comprises the amphibian escape means.

[0065] In embodiments of the invention, the amphibian escape means is a mat, preferably a slope mat, an embankment mat, a crawl mat or the like.

[0066] In embodiments of the invention, the mat is made of a plastic mesh, preferably a net comprising optionally recycled polyethylene and/or polypropylene.

[0067] In embodiments of the invention, the body comprises a plurality of modular body parts.

[0068] In embodiments of the invention, the fastening structure is provided at an inner surface of the inlet.

[0069] In alternative and highly preferred embodiments of the invention the gully comprises an insert selected from an odor lock and/or a filter mounted to the hollow body and extending longitudinally inside the body, the insert comprising the fastening structure at an inner surface of the enclosing wall of the insert. The skilled person understands that for an insert to function as an odor lock, it should have an enclosing wall which has a closed portion extending beyond the position of the outlet. In normal conditions, the water level will be below the position of the outlet, and the enclosing wall of the odor lock extends sufficiently far into the gully body such as to be submerged and thereby preventing odor (e.g. sewer odor in case the outlet is connected to the sewers) to escape the gully. The odor lock typically does not extend further than at most half the length of the gully such that during very dry periods, the water level may still drop below the odor lock. An advantage of employing a filter is that aside from limiting entry of debris into the outlet (and e.g. connected sewer system or infiltration facility), cleaning with a vacuum suction hose can be performed with the filter in place as most debris will be contained within the filter interior.

[0070] In embodiments of the invention, the gully comprises a filter mounted to the hollow body for filtering the fluid before draining, the filter extending longitudinally inside the body and the filter comprising the fastening structure at an inner surface of the enclosing wall of the filter. Preferably the body comprises a plurality of modular body parts and the filter comprises a plurality of modular filter parts, wherein the bottom of each modular filter part does not extend beyond the bottom of a respective modular body part in which the modular filter part is located. The enclosing wall of the filter may be closed in a top part of the filter such that the filter may have the dual function of filter and an odor lock. In such embodiments it is preferred that the filter is modular and the enclosing wall of the top modular part is closed (i.e. free of perforation or pores). The enclosing wall of the filter may be perforated in a top part of the filter such that the filter may have the dual function of filter and aerator. This is desirable in some applications where there is no need for an odor lock (e.g. when the outlet is connected to a rainwater storage and/or infiltration facility) and brings the additional advantage that by including perforations in the top filter part, a significant aeration of system connected to the outlet is achieved. This is an important advantage in case of large amounts of rainfall needing to be absorbed by a rainwater storage and/or infiltration field. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the odor lock or filter are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0071] In embodiments of the invention, the body comprises an enclosing wall and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs and second ribs, the first ribs extending circumferentially along the surface, and the second ribs extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs, wherein the rib structure comprises a pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration on the outer surface of the body. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to cross configuration are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0072] In embodiments of the invention, the gully comprises an optionally modular filter for mounting to the hollow body, preferably to the top modular body part, and for filtering the fluid before draining, the filter comprising the fastening structure at an inner surface of the enclosing wall of the filter, wherein the filter (preferably the bottom modular filter part) does not comprise a bottom enclosing wall but is simply open, thereby providing a throughflow opening which allows the amphibian escape means to extend therethrough.

[0073] In embodiments of the invention, the escape means extends longitudinally inside the gully body to from a position at least below the outlet to a position above the inlet. Preferably, the amphibian escape means has a length allowing it to extend to a position above the inlet and configured such that after installation of the gulley and placement of a street gutter, the amphibian escape means bends upon contact with a street gutter lid or grid, thereby providing a sloped path from which the amphibian can easily escape through the slot openings of the gutter lid or grid. In preferred embodiments of the invention, the amphibian escape means is thus flexible.

[0074] In embodiments of the invention, the gully body comprises a plurality of modular body parts and the gully further comprises a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part, wherein the bottom joint rib comprises a bottom locking means complementary to a top locking means comprised in the top joint rib, wherein the gully comprises a seal deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall, the bottom joint rib and the top joint rib. Preferably the space is further delimited by the bottom locking means. Said locking means are configured to connect or lock the modular body parts to each other by locking the complementary top and bottom locking means to each other. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the locking means are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0075] In embodiments of the invention, the gully body comprises a plurality of modular body parts and the gully further comprises a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part, wherein one of the first and second modular body part comprises a first connector part which is complementary to a second connector part comprised in the other of the first and second modular body parts, wherein the first connector part is a receiving slot provided in the enclosing wall of said one of the first and second modular body parts, the receiving slot being formed by a lateral protrusion (preferably an outward lateral protrusion) of the enclosing wall and configured to receive the second connector part of the other of said first and second modular body parts, wherein the second connector part is a protrusion of part of the enclosing wall extending from the outer surface of the other of said first and second modular body parts. Preferably, the first connector part is comprised in the first modular body part, and the second connector part is comprised in the second modular body part. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the connector parts are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

Fifth aspect of the invention

[0076] In a fifth aspect, which may be combined with the other aspects and embodiments described herein, the present invention provides a gully comprising a hollow body comprising:

• a plurality of modular parts,
• an inlet for receiving a fluid to be drained,
• an outlet for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid,
• an enclosing wall and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs and second ribs, the first ribs extending circumferentially along the outer surface, and the second ribs extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs, and
• a pair of joint ribs extending circumferentially, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part,

wherein the bottom joint rib comprises a bottom locking means complementary to a top locking means comprised in the top joint rib,

wherein the gully comprises a seal deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall, the bottom joint rib and the top joint rib. Preferably, the space is further delimited by the bottom locking means.

[0077] An advantage is that the gully provides a seal and locking means, the combination of which improves the function of the gully of draining fluid and the integrity thereof, particularly improving the water-tightness of the gully. The seal is not only sealing the assembly, it also reinforces the interlocking connection and thus increases the disassembly forces or pressures. It was found that the gully according to this aspect of the invention provides significantly improved resistance against disassembly under increased inner pressure without any need for additional strengthening with e.g. screws. Also the gully will withstand a higher pressure level and therefore an improved level of watertightness. The sealing prevents the inwards bending of the locking means. Vertical forces are optimally distributed via the locking means to the horizontal joint ribs. The locking also provides resistance against longitudinal disassembly, as opposed to e.g. simply stacked concrete parts.

[0078] The seal is preferably supported by a circumferential protrusion or flange of the enclosing wall of the second modular part. The part of the enclosing wall on which the seal is placed is typically provided in the form of a corrugated or discontinuous structure, which facilitates injection-molding. The circumferential protrusion or flange of the enclosing wall of the second modular part preferably merges into the bottom joint rib in a sloping fashion. This has the advantage that when joining the different modular body parts (e.g. using a hydraulic press), top locking means comprised in the top joint rib are guided outwardly to engage with the bottom locking means comprised in the bottom joint rib.

[0079] In embodiments of the invention, the enclosing wall comprises modular wall parts, one in each modular body part. Preferably, the space is delimited by a modular wall comprised in the second modular wall, the bottom joint rib, the top joint rib and the bottom locking means.

[0080] In highly preferred embodiments of the invention, the enclosing wall of the first modular body part has a circumferentially extending recess in the area where the enclosing wall of the first modular body part engages the enclosing wall of the second modular body part, and the enclosing wall of the second modular body part has a complementary circumferentially extending protrusion in the area where the enclosing wall of the first modular body part engages the enclosing wall of the second modular body part. This has the advantage that the modular walls of the different body parts are tightly engaged such that when joining the different modular body parts (e.g. using a hydraulic press), the pressure exerted by the top locking means comprised in the top joint rib on the seal cannot lead to bulging of the enclosing wall but instead results in a sustained strong pressure from the seal on the top locking means after the top and bottom locking means are engaged and thus a very strong locking of different modular body parts. It also helps withstanding traffic topload without buckling after installation of the gully.

[0081] It will be understood by the skilled person that it is preferred that the area between the top joint rib and the bottom joint rib is substantially free from longitudinal ribs as the locking means need to be able to move outwardly when joining (e.g. using a hydraulic press) the modular body parts.

[0082] In embodiments of the invention, the bottom and top locking means are complementary hook-like structures, such as comprising a J-shaped body.

[0083] In highly preferred embodiments of the invention, the bottom locking means and top locking means extend circumferentially in the bottom and top joint ribs, respectively.

[0084] In embodiments of the invention, the modular body parts are substantially cylindrical.

[0085] In embodiments of the invention, the seal is an O-ring.

[0086] In embodiments of the invention, the seal is made of flexible material, such as rubber, silicone, polyurethane, any suitable thermoplastic elastomers, etc.

[0087] In embodiments of the invention, the gully further comprises an insert selected from an odor lock and/or a filter mounted to the hollow body and extending longitudinally inside the body. The skilled person understands that for an insert to function as an odor lock, it should have an enclosing wall which has a closed portion extending beyond the position of the outlet. In normal conditions, the water level will be below the position of the outlet, and the enclosing wall of the odor lock extends sufficiently far into the gully body such as to be submerged and thereby preventing odor (e.g. sewer odor in case the outlet is connected to the sewers) to escape the gully. The odor lock typically does not extend further than at most half the length of the gully such that during very dry periods, the water level may still drop below the odor lock. An advantage of employing a filter is that aside from limiting entry of debris into the outlet (and e.g. connected sewer system or infiltration facility), cleaning with a vacuum suction hose can be performed with the filter in place as most debris will be contained within the filter interior.

[0088] In embodiments of the invention, the gully further comprises a filter mounted to the hollow body for filtering the fluid before draining, the filter extending longitudinally inside the body. Preferably the body comprises a plurality of modular body parts and the filter comprises a plurality of modular filter parts, wherein the bottom of each modular filter part does not extend beyond the bottom of a respective modular body part in which the modular filter part is located. The enclosing wall of the filter may be closed in a top part of the filter such that the filter may have the dual function of filter and an odor lock. In such embodiments it is preferred that the filter is modular and the enclosing wall of the top modular part is closed (i.e. free of perforation or pores). The enclosing wall of the filter may be perforated in a top part of the filter such that the filter may have the dual function of filter and aerator. This is desirable in some applications where there is no need for an odor lock (e.g. when the outlet is connected to a rainwater storage and/or infiltration facility) and brings the additional advantage that by including perforations in the top filter part, a significant aeration of system connected to the outlet is achieved. This is an important advantage in case of large amounts of rainfall needing to be absorbed by a rainwater storage and/or infiltration field. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the odor lock or filter are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0089] In embodiments of the invention, the body comprises an enclosing wall and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs and second ribs, the first ribs extending circumferentially along the surface, and the second ribs extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs, wherein the rib structure comprises a pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration on the outer surface of the body. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to cross configuration are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0090] In embodiments of the invention, the gully body comprises a plurality of modular body parts and the gully further comprises a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part, wherein one of the first and second modular body part comprises a first connector part which is complementary to a second connector part comprised in the other of the first and second modular body parts, wherein the first connector part is a receiving slot provided in the enclosing wall of said one of the first and second modular body parts, the receiving slot being formed by a lateral protrusion (preferably an outward lateral protrusion) of the enclosing wall and configured to receive the second connector part of the other of said first and second modular body parts, wherein the second connector part is a protrusion of part of the enclosing wall extending from the outer surface of the other of said first and second modular body parts. Preferably, the first connector part is comprised in the first modular body part, and the second connector part is comprised in the second modular body part. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the connector parts are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0091] In embodiments of the invention, the gully further comprises a rigid filter mounted to the hollow body for filtering the fluid before draining, the rigid filter extending longitudinally inside the body, wherein the gully further comprises a flexible filter fastened to an outer surface of the rigid filter. In embodiments of the invention, the rigid filter comprises at least one flange protruding radially and provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the top of the rigid filter and a lower of the at least one flange, preferably the top modular filter part comprises the at least one flange provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the top of the top modular filter part and the lower of the at least one flange, more preferably the at least one flange is provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the first rim and the lower of the at least one flange. In embodiments of the invention, the rigid filter comprises two flanges protruding radially and provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the two flanges, preferably the top modular filter part comprises the two flanges provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the two flanges. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the fastening of a flexible filter to a rigid filter parts are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

Sixth aspect of the invention

[0092] In a sixth aspect, which may be combined with the other aspects and embodiments described herein, the present invention provides a gully comprising a hollow body comprising:

• a plurality of modular parts,
• an inlet for receiving a fluid to be drained,
• an outlet for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid,
• an enclosing wall and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs and second ribs the first ribs extending circumferentially along the outer surface, and the second ribs extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs, and
• a pair of joint ribs extending circumferentially, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part,

wherein one of the first and second modular body part comprises a first connector part which is complementary to a second connector part comprised in the other of the first and second modular body parts,

wherein the first connector part is a receiving slot provided in the enclosing wall of said one of the first and second modular body parts, the receiving slot being formed by a lateral protrusion of the enclosing wall and configured to receive the second connector part of the other of said first and second modular body parts,

wherein the second connector part is a protrusion forming part of the enclosing wall and longitudinally extending from the outer surface of the other of said first and second modular body parts,

wherein preferably the first connector part is comprised in the first modular body part, and the second connector part is comprised in the second modular body part.

[0093] An advantage is that the connector parts ensure the correct orientation of the modular body parts. Additionally, thanks to the first connector part having the lateral protrusion there is a visual indication or aid for the orientation of the modular body parts, thereby providing a simple way of orienting the connection of the modular body parts to each other.

[0094] It will be understood by the skilled person that the connector parts are located in the area where the enclosing wall of the first modular body part engages the enclosing wall of the second modular body part, since the first connector part (the receiving slot) is configured to receive the second connector part (the longitudinal protrusion). In order to serve as a visual orientation aid the first connector part (the receiving slot) should be a localized lateral protrusion and thus not a circumferentially extending diameter step in the enclosing wall. The total portion of first connector parts present around the circumference of a body part typically makes up only a small portion of the circumference of the enclosing wall, such as at most 30% of the circumference of the enclosing wall, preferably at most 20%, more preferably at most 15%.

[0095] In highly preferred embodiments of the invention, the lateral protrusion protrudes outwardly such that it provides the visual aid.

[0096] In embodiments of the invention, said one of the first and second modular body parts comprises more than one first connector part, and the other of said one of the first and second modular body parts comprises more than one second connector part, preferably equally spaced apart circumferentially (e.g., evenly space apart), such as two connector parts on opposite points or locations around the circumference of the modular body part.

[0097] In embodiments of the invention, the gully comprises a seal deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall, the bottom joint rib and the top joint rib. Preferably, the bottom joint rib comprises a bottom locking means complementary to a top locking means comprised in the top joint rib and the seal is deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall, the bottom joint rib and the top joint rib. An advantage is that the gully provides improved water tightness in a modular gully, while ensuring effective functioning of the gully because the first and second connector parts do not give rise to additional joints which could leak. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the locking means are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0098] In highly preferred embodiments of the invention, the first and second connector parts are located inwardly from the seal. An advantage is that the location of the first and second connector parts being inwardly from the seal, ensures the prevention of leakage. Additionally, by having the lateral protrusion of the enclosing wall deposited on top of the bottom joint rib it provides a visual aid but the connector parts are still protected from leaking by the seal.

[0099] In embodiments of the invention, one of the first and second modular body part comprises a plurality of first connector parts which are complementary to a plurality of second connector parts comprised in the other of the first and second modular body parts. The plurality of first and second connector parts may be one, two, three, four, five, six, seven or eight, preferably one or two.

[0100] It is preferred that the bottom gully part also comprises a receiving slot or any other type of recess at the bottom area of the enclosing wall which is at the same circumferential position as the protrusion forming the second connector part, such that multiple bottom parts can be stacked for transport or storage without damaging the second connector part. The receiving slot or recess of the bottom gully part may be complementary to the second connector part and specifically adapted for receiving the second connector part, or it may simply be an absence of wall material (provided said bottom area of the enclosing wall does not constitute part of the enclosing wall providing water-tightness of the gully). In any case the receiving slot or recess of the bottom gully part is preferably configured to accommodate the second connector part of another bottom gully part when stacked on each other. The skilled person will understand that while this receiving slot or any other type of recess at the bottom area of the enclosing wall which is at the same circumferential position as the protrusion forming the second connector part is not necessary for installation of the actual gully, the present inventors have found that it advantageously does allow stacking of bottom gully parts in a manufacturing context.

[0101] In embodiments of the invention, the gully further comprises an insert selected from an odor lock and/or a filter mounted to the hollow body and extending longitudinally inside the body. The skilled person understands that for an insert to function as an odor lock, it should have an enclosing wall which has a closed portion extending beyond the position of the outlet. In normal conditions, the water level will be below the position of the outlet, and the enclosing wall of the odor lock extends sufficiently far into the gully body such as to be submerged and thereby preventing odor (e.g. sewer odor in case the outlet is connected to the sewers) to escape the gully. The odor lock typically does not extend further than at most half the length of the gully such that during very dry periods, the water level may still drop below the odor lock. An advantage of employing a filter is that aside from limiting entry of debris into the outlet (and e.g. connected sewer system or infiltration facility), cleaning with a vacuum suction hose can be performed with the filter in place as most debris will be contained within the filter interior.

[0102] In embodiments of the invention, the gully further comprises a filter mounted to the hollow body for filtering the fluid before draining, the filter extending longitudinally inside the body. Preferably the body comprises a plurality of modular body parts and the filter comprises a plurality of modular filter parts, wherein the bottom of each modular filter part does not extend beyond the bottom of a respective modular body part in which the modular filter part is located. The enclosing wall of the filter may be closed in a top part of the filter such that the filter may have the dual function of filter and an odor lock. In such embodiments it is preferred that the filter is modular and the enclosing wall of the top modular part is closed (i.e. free of perforation or pores). The enclosing wall of the filter may be perforated in a top part of the filter such that the filter may have the dual function of filter and aerator. This is desirable in some applications where there is no need for an odor lock (e.g. when the outlet is connected to a rainwater storage and/or infiltration facility) and brings the additional advantage that by including perforations in the top filter part, a significant aeration of system connected to the outlet is achieved. This is an important advantage in case of large amounts of rainfall needing to be absorbed by a rainwater storage and/or infiltration field. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the odor lock or filter are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0103] In embodiments of the invention, the body comprises an enclosing wall and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs and second ribs, the first ribs extending circumferentially along the surface, and the second ribs extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs, wherein the rib structure comprises a pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration on the outer surface of the body. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to cross configuration are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0104] In embodiments of the invention, the gully further comprises a rigid filter mounted to the hollow body for filtering the fluid before draining, the rigid filter extending longitudinally inside the body, wherein the gully further comprises a flexible filter fastened to an outer surface of the rigid filter. In embodiments of the invention, the rigid filter comprises at least one flange protruding radially and provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the top of the rigid filter and a lower of the at least one flange, preferably the top modular filter part comprises the at least one flange provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the top of the top modular filter part and the lower of the at least one flange, more preferably the at least one flange is provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the first rim and the lower of the at least one flange. In embodiments of the invention, the rigid filter comprises two flanges protruding radially and provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the two flanges, preferably the top modular filter part comprises the two flanges provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the two flanges. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the fastening of a flexible filter to a rigid filter parts are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

Seventh aspect of the invention

[0105] In a seventh aspect, which may be combined with the other aspects and embodiments described herein, the present invention provides a gully comprising a hollow body comprising an inlet for receiving a fluid to be drained, and an outlet for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid, wherein the gully further comprises a rigid filter mounted to the hollow body for filtering the fluid before draining, the rigid filter extending longitudinally inside the body, wherein the gully further comprises a flexible filter fastened to an outer surface of the rigid filter.

[0106] An advantage is that the filtration process is improved by incorporating two different filter having different characteristics. A further advantage is that the flexible filter is fastened using facile fastening means to and supported by the rigid filter, thereby providing the user with a more user-friendly way to remove both filters from the gully and replace any necessary parts.

[0107] The fastening according to the invention is reversible fastening. Reversible fastening in the context of the invention means that the fastening can be undone without damaging the rigid filter. This as opposed to irreversible fastening (e.g. welding, gluing). Hence the present invention allows different outer flexible filter materials to be easily interchanged.

[0108] In embodiments of the invention, the rigid filter comprises a plurality of modular filter parts.

[0109] In embodiments of the invention, the rigid filter comprises a first rim at the top of the rigid filter, the first rim being configured to rest onto a second rim of the body, wherein the first rim protrudes outwardly and the second rim protrudes inwardly, preferably, the top modular filter part comprises the first rim. Thus, the rigid filter provides a simplified means of mounting the filter to the body of the gully and of removing the filter from the gully.

[0110] In embodiments of the invention, the rigid filter comprises at least one flange protruding radially and provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the top of the rigid filter and a lower of the at least one flange, preferably the top modular filter part comprises the at least one flange provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the top of the top modular filter part and the lower of the at least one flange, more preferably the at least one flange is provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the first rim and the lower of the at least one flange.

[0111] In embodiments of the invention, the rigid filter comprises two flanges protruding radially and provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the two flanges, preferably the top modular filter part comprises the two flanges provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the two flanges.

[0112] The protruding flange(s) provide the user with effective fastening of the flexible filter to the rigid filter. For example, by fastening the flexible filter above the lowest of the at least one flange, it is ensured that the flexible filter does not slip or slide off the rigid filter, e.g. from below. In another example, by fastening the flexible filter between two flanges, it is ensured that the flexible filter is securely fastened in place.

[0113] In embodiments of the invention, the fastening means is a tie-wrap, strap, rubber band, rope, string, welded strapping band etc. The fastening means may have a width less than the distance between the two flanges, such that the fastening means fits therebetween, wherein the width is in the range of 2-20mm, typically about 8 mm. It will be appreciated that the distance between the two flanges is slightly larger than the thickness of the fastening means, such that the fastening means fits snugly therebetween and is not moveable in the longitudinal direction.

[0114] In embodiments of the invention, the plurality of filtration holes comprised in the rigid filter have a diameter in the range of 2-25 mm, preferably 2-20 mm and the average pore size of the flexible filter is within the range of 1 micron to 2 mm.

[0115] In embodiments of the invention, the flexible filter comprises woven or nonwoven materials, such as fibers, netting or geotextile materials.

[0116] In embodiments of the invention, the gully body comprises a plurality of modular body parts and the filter comprises a plurality of modular filter parts, wherein the bottom of each modular filter part does not extend beyond the bottom of a respective modular body part in which the modular filter part is located. The enclosing wall of the filter may be closed in a top part of the filter such that the filter may have the dual function of filter and an odor lock. In such embodiments it is preferred that the filter is modular and the enclosing wall of the top modular part is closed (i.e. free of perforation or pores). The enclosing wall of the filter may be perforated in a top part of the filter such that the filter may have the dual function of filter and aerator. This is desirable in some applications where there is no need for an odor lock (e.g. when the outlet is connected to a rainwater storage and/or infiltration facility) and brings the additional advantage that by including perforations in the top filter part, a significant aeration of system connected to the outlet is achieved. This is an important advantage in case of large amounts of rainfall needing to be absorbed by a rainwater storage and/or infiltration field. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the odor lock or filter are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0117] In embodiments of the invention, the body comprises an enclosing wall and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs and second ribs, the first ribs extending circumferentially along the surface, and the second ribs extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs, wherein the rib structure comprises a pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration on the outer surface of the body. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to cross configuration are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0118] In embodiments of the invention, the gully body comprises a plurality of modular body parts and the gully further comprises a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part, wherein the bottom joint rib comprises a bottom locking means complementary to a top locking means comprised in the top joint rib, wherein the gully comprises a seal deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall, the bottom joint rib and the top joint rib. Preferably the space is further delimited by the bottom locking means. Said locking means are configured to connect or lock the modular body parts to each other by locking the complementary top and bottom locking means to each other. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the locking means are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

[0119] In embodiments of the invention, the gully body comprises a plurality of modular body parts and the gully further comprises a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part, wherein one of the first and second modular body part comprises a first connector part which is complementary to a second connector part comprised in the other of the first and second modular body parts, wherein the first connector part is a receiving slot provided in the enclosing wall of said one of the first and second modular body parts, the receiving slot being formed by a lateral protrusion (preferably an outward lateral protrusion) of the enclosing wall and configured to receive the second connector part of the other of said first and second modular body parts, wherein the second connector part is a protrusion of part of the enclosing wall extending from the outer surface of the other of said first and second modular body parts. Preferably, the first connector part is comprised in the first modular body part, and the second connector part is comprised in the second modular body part. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the connector parts are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

Eighth aspect of the invention

[0120] In an eighth aspect, which may be combined with the other aspects and embodiments described herein, the present invention provides a plastic gully comprising a hollow body comprising:

• a top modular gully body part comprising an inlet for receiving a fluid to be drained, and an outlet for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid,
• at least one middle modular gully body part, and
• a bottom modular gully body part

wherein the top modular gully part is stacked on the top of the at least one middle modular gully body parts, and the bottom of the at least one middle modular gully body parts is stacked on the bottom modular gully body part.

[0121] An advantage is that in between the bottom gully part and the top gully part, any number of gully body parts can be placed to enable a large variety of gully heights and thus sediment/dirt containing volumes. Short gullies can be provided in case existing infrastructure below the bottom limits the size of the gully. Long gullies can be provided in case of large dirt volumes, e.g. green areas or in order to lengthen cleaning intervals. This can all be provided using only three molds, one for the top gully part, one for the bottom gully part and one for the middle gully body part.

[0122] It will be understood by the skilled person in the context of the present disclosure that the modular gully body parts are distinct parts, i.e. not imaginary parts or subdivisions of a continuous plastic structure but actual separate plastic parts. Each part may for example be produced on a different production line after which they are joined together using as many middle gully parts as needed for the required gully depth.

[0123] The modular gully body parts are preferably injection molded.

[0124] In embodiments of the invention, each modular gully part is connected to each adjacent modular gully part in a water-tight fashion, preferably using a seal.

[0125] In preferred embodiments of the invention, the gully comprises two or more middle gully body parts, such as two, three, four, five or six.

[0126] In embodiments of the invention, each modular gully part is connected to each adjacent modular gully part via a locking mechanism which provides resistance against disconnection of the modular gully parts in the longitudinal direction of the gully. This is a significant advantage with can be provided with the plastic modular gully of the present invention as compared to e.g. concrete modular gullies which are simply stacked on top of each other but still prone to disconnection in the longitudinal direction by "lifting" of one of the gully parts.

[0127] In embodiments of the invention, the gully comprises two or more identical middle modular gully body parts. This has the advantage that only 3 molds are required to create gullies having various sizes.

[0128] In embodiments of the invention, the gully, preferably each modular body part of the gully body comprises an enclosing wall and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs and second ribs, the first ribs extending circumferentially along the outer surface, and the second ribs extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs.

[0129] In embodiments of the invention, the rib structure comprises a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part,

wherein one of the first and second modular body part comprises a first connector part which is complementary to a second connector part comprised in the other of the first and second modular body parts,

wherein the first connector part is a receiving slot provided in the enclosing wall of said one of the first and second modular body parts, the receiving slot being formed by a lateral protrusion of the enclosing wall and configured to receive the second connector part of the other of said first and second modular body parts,

wherein the second connector part is a protrusion forming part of the enclosing wall and longitudinally extending from the outer surface of the other of said first and second modular body parts, wherein preferably the first connector part is comprised in the first modular body part, and preferably the second connector part is comprised in the second modular body part. An advantage is that the connector parts ensure the correct orientation of the modular body parts. Additionally, thanks to the first connector part having the lateral protrusion there is a visual indication or aid for the orientation of the modular body parts, thereby providing a simple way of orienting the connection of the modular body parts to each other. It is preferred that the receiving slot is formed by an outward lateral protrusion of the enclosing wall.

[0130] In embodiments of the invention, the rib structure comprises a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part, and the gully comprises a seal deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall, the bottom joint rib and the top joint rib, wherein the bottom joint rib preferably comprises a bottom locking means complementary to a top locking means comprised in the top joint rib and the seal is preferably deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall, the bottom joint rib and the top joint rib.

[0131] In embodiments of the invention, the first and second connector parts are located inwardly from the seal.

[0132] In embodiments of the invention, the seal is supported by an optionally corrugated or discontinuous circumferential protrusion or flange of the enclosing wall of the second modular part which merges into the bottom joint rib in a sloping fashion.

[0133] In embodiments of the invention, the bottom and top locking means are complementary hook-like structures, preferably circumferentially extending hook-like structures.

[0134] In embodiments of the invention, the enclosing wall of the first modular body part has a circumferentially extending recess in the area where the enclosing wall of the first modular body part engages the enclosing wall of the second modular body part, and the enclosing wall of the second modular body part has a complementary circumferentially extending protrusion in the area where the enclosing wall of the first modular body part engages the enclosing wall of the second modular body part.

[0135] In embodiments of the invention, the body comprises an enclosing wall and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs and second ribs, the first ribs extending circumferentially along the outer surface, and the second ribs extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs,
wherein the rib structure comprises a pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration on the outer surface of the body.

[0136] In embodiments of the invention, the gully comprises an insert selected from an odor lock and/or a filter mounted to the hollow body and extending longitudinally inside the body, the insert preferably comprising a fastening structure configured to engage an amphibian escape means inside the gully, the fastening structure being provided at an inner surface of the enclosing wall of the insert.

[0137] In preferred embodiments the gully comprises a plurality of modular body parts, and the gully further comprises a filter mounted to the hollow body for filtering the fluid before draining, the filter extending longitudinally inside the body and comprising a plurality of modular filter parts,
wherein the bottom of each modular filter part does not extend beyond the bottom of the respective modular body part in which the modular filter part is located.

[0138] The enclosing wall of the filter may be closed in a top part of the filter such that the filter may have the dual function of filter and an odor lock. In such embodiments it is preferred that the filter is modular and the enclosing wall of the top modular part is closed (i.e. free of perforation or pores). The enclosing wall of the filter may be perforated in a top part of the filter such that the filter may have the dual function of filter and aerator. This is desirable in some applications where there is no need for an odor lock (e.g. when the outlet is connected to a rainwater storage and/or infiltration facility) and brings the additional advantage that by including perforations in the top filter part, a significant aeration of system connected to the outlet is achieved. This is an important advantage in case of large amounts of rainfall needing to be absorbed by a rainwater storage and/or infiltration field. The embodiments described herein in the context of other aspects of the invention relating to the odor lock or filter are equally applicable to the gully of this aspect of the invention.

Brief description of the drawings

[0139] The present invention will be discussed in more detail below, with reference to the attached drawings.

Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a gully according to an embodiment according to the present invention.

Fig. 2 shows a perspective exploded view of a gully according to an embodiment according to the present invention.

Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of a cross-section of a gully according to an embodiment according to the present invention.

Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of a gully according to an embodiment according to the present invention.

Fig. 5 shows a perspective exploded view of a gully according to an embodiment according to the present invention,

Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of a cross-section of a gully according to an embodiment according to the present invention.

Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of a cross-section of a gully according to an embodiment according to the present invention.

Fig. 8 shows a perspective view of a gully according to an embodiment according to the present invention.

Fig. 9 shows a perspective exploded view of a gully according to an embodiment according to the present invention.

Fig. 10A shows a perspective view of a cross-section of parts of the gully of Fig. 7 in a connected state.

Fig. 10B shows a perspective view of a cross-section of parts of the gully of Fig. 7 in a disconnected state.

Figs. 11A and 11B shows perspective views of modular parts of the gully according to an embodiment according to the present invention.

Fig. 12 shows a perspective view of a cross-section of the filter in the gully of Fig. 3 in a connected state.

Fig. 13 shows a perspective view of an amphibian escape means according to an embodiment according to the present invention.

Fig. 14 shows a perspective view of a gripping means in a filter according to an embodiment according to the present invention.

Fig. 15A shows a perspective view of a top modular filter part according to an embodiment according to the present invention which functions as an aerator.

Fig. 15B shows a perspective view of an odor lock or a top modular filter part which functions as an odor lock according to an embodiment according to the present invention.

Fig. 16 shows a perspective view of a cross-section of a gully according to an embodiment according to the present invention equipped with a modular filter wherein the top modular filter part functions as an odor lock.

Description of embodiments

[0140] The present invention will be described with respect to particular embodiments and with reference to certain drawings but the invention is not limited thereto but only by the claims. The drawings described are only schematic and are non-limiting. In the drawings, the size of some of the elements may be exaggerated and not drawn on scale for illustrative purposes. The dimensions and the relative dimensions do not necessarily correspond to actual reductions to practice of the invention.

[0141] Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order. The terms are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and the embodiments of the invention can operate in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.

[0142] Moreover, the terms top, bottom, over, under and the like in the description and the claims are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describing relative positions. The terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and the embodiments of the invention described herein can operate in other orientations than described or illustrated herein.

[0143] Furthermore, the various embodiments, although referred to as "preferred" are to be construed as exemplary manners in which the invention may be implemented rather than as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0144] The term "comprising", used in the claims, should not be interpreted as being restricted to the elements or steps listed thereafter; it does not exclude other elements or steps. It needs to be interpreted as specifying the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components as referred to, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps or components, or groups thereof. Thus, the scope of the expression "a device comprising A and B" should not be limited to devices consisting only of components A and B, rather with respect to the present invention, the only enumerated components of the device are A and B, and further the claim should be interpreted as including equivalents of those components.

[0145] In all aspects of the invention it is preferred that if the gully comprises an insert such as an odor lock or filter described herein in various embodiments, the insert comprises a gripping means 123 for gripping the filter 121 to insert into or remove from the gully 100. The gripping means 123 may be a handle, shaft, stem, arm, holder, etc., preferably a handle. It is preferred that the gripping means is a handle which, when it is not in use, rests within the enclosing wall of the insert. It is preferred that the gripping means is a handle which is configured such that when it is not in use, it rests within the enclosing wall of the insert on one or more supporting protrusions 334. It is furthermore preferred that the enclosing wall of the insert comprises a flange or diameter step 335 below the resting position of the handle. The flange or diameter step 335 is preferably sloping such that a hook which is inserted is smoothly guided towards the handle to allow easy removal of the insert such as the odor lock or filter.

[0146] In all aspects of the invention it is remarked that if the gully comprises an insert such as an odor lock or filter, the insert may be provided without any locking to the gully (in which case it should be configured such that it does not spontaneously float when the gully fills with water), or with locking by any means known to the person skilled in the art.

[0147] In all aspects of the invention it is preferred that the outlet is visible after installation in the road. This eases camera inspection or cleaning without the need for touching or fumbling to detect the exact position of the outlet.

[0148] In all aspects of the invention it is preferred that the gully body comprises a a plurality of modular body parts. This has the advantage that in between the bottom gully part and the top gully part, any number of gully body parts can be placed to enable a large variety of gully heights and thus sediment/dirt containing volumes. Short gullies can be provided in case existing infrastructure below the bottom limits the size of the gully. Long gullies can be provided in case of large dirt volumes, e.g. green areas or in order to lengthen cleaning intervals.

[0149] In all aspects of the invention it is preferred that the gully is made from an (optionally recycled) plastic material, such as PE, PP, ABS, PUR, PVC, PA, preferably PE or PP. It is preferred that the gully is made by injection moulding, blow moulding, extrusion, mould-less production methods such as additive manufacturing (3D printing), etc. Highly preferred are injection moulding methods.

[0150] Fig. 1 shows a gully according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the gully 100 comprises a hollow body 103 comprising an inlet 101 for receiving a fluid to be drained, and an outlet 102 for being connected to a drain pipe (not shown) for draining the fluid. The body 103 comprises an enclosing wall 105 having an inner and outer surface, and further comprises a rib structure on the outer surface, the rib structure having first ribs 110 and second ribs 109, the first ribs 110 extending circumferentially along the surface, and the second ribs 109 extending longitudinally along the surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs 110. The rib structure comprises a pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration 111 at one or more first zones on the outer surface of the body 103.

[0151] The one or more first zones should be interpreted to mean the combination of the circumferential location and the longitudinal location. As can be seen in Fig. 1, the cross configuration 111 is formed at three longitudinal locations, all at the same circumferential location. Although not shown in Fig. 1, the cross configuration 111 may also be formed at at least two circumferential locations, preferably two opposite circumferential locations. In one example, the cross configuration 111 is formed at a zone where the outlet 102 is located. In an additional example, the cross configuration 111 may be further formed in a circumferential location at an opposite side of the zones shown in Fig. 1. In Fig. 1, the cross configurations at different longitudinal locations have the same circumferential location. While this is preferred, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0152] In Fig. 1, the body 103 comprises a plurality of modular body parts, e.g. a first 103a, a second 103b, a third 103c and a fourth 103d modular body part, where the first modular body part 103a is the top modular body part comprising the inlet 101, the fourth modular body part 103d is the bottom modular body part being closed at the bottom end, and the second 103b and the third 103c modular body parts are a first 103b and second 103c central modular body parts, respectively, in between the top 103a and the bottom 103d modular body parts.

[0153] As can be seen in Fig. 1, each rib of said pair of first ribs circumferentially extends along two adjacent modular body parts. For example each rib of a first pair of ribs circumferentially extends along the top 103a and first central 103b modular body parts, each rib of a second pair of ribs circumferentially extends along the first 103b and second 103c central modular body parts, and each rib of a third pair of ribs circumferentially extends along the second central 103c and the bottom 103d modular body parts.

[0154] As can be further seen in Fig. 1, said cross configuration 111 extends along two adjacent modular body parts of the plurality of modular body parts. For example, a first cross configuration formed by the first pair of ribs extends along the top 103a and first central 103b modular body parts which are adjacent. Similarly, a second cross configuration formed by the second pair of first ribs extends along the first 103b and second 103c central modular body parts, and a third cross configuration formed by the third pair of first ribs extends along the second central 103c and the bottom 103d modular body parts.

[0155] As can be further seen in Fig. 1, some modular body parts, preferably each modular body part, comprise first ribs which each forms part of a different cross configuration, preferably each form part of a cross configuration 111 extending along two adjacent modular parts. For example, the first central modular body part 103b comprises a top first rib forming part of the first cross configuration which extends along the top 103a and the first central 103b modular body parts, and a bottom first rib forming part of the second cross configuration which extends along the first 103b and the second 103c central modular body parts, the second central modular body part 103c comprises another top first rib forming part of the second cross configuration which extends along the first 103b and the second 103c central modular body parts, and another bottom first rib forming part of the fourth cross configuration which extends along the second central 103c and the bottom 103d modular body parts, and the bottom modular body part 103d comprises a single first rib forming part of the fourth cross configuration which extends along the second central 103c and the bottom 103d modular body parts. Although in Fig. 1 the top modular body part 103a comprises two first ribs one of which (the top one) not forming part of a cross configuration, it will be understood that the top modular body part 103a may comprise only one first rib forming the first cross configuration or the top modular body part 103a may further comprise a further top first rib, such that the top and the further top first ribs form a further cross configuration.

[0156] It will be understood that this results in a configuration wherein the two first ribs which each form part of a different cross configuration form a diamond-like configuration at one or more first zones on the outer surface of the body 103, preferably within a modular body part. For example, the bottom part of the first cross configuration (i.e., the rib of the first pair of ribs extending in the first central modular body part 103b) form a diamond-like configuration with a top part of the second configuration (i.e., the rib of the second pair of ribs extending in the first central modular body part 103b) in the first central modular body part 103b, and the bottom part of the second cross configuration (i.e., the rib of the second pair of ribs extending in the second central modular body part 103c) forms a diamond-like configuration with a top part of the third configuration (i.e., the rib of the third pair of ribs extending in the bottom modular body part 103d) in the second central modular body part 103c.

[0157] Fig. 1 further shows that the inlet 101 and the outlet 102 are comprised in the top half of the body 103, particularly in the top modular body part 103a. The top half of the body 103, particularly the top modular body part 103a, tapers inwardly towards the inlet 101. Preferably the inlet 101 is a substantially horizontal opening, as seen during normal installation and use of the gully 100, in the top half of the body 103, particularly in the top modular body part 103a. The body 103 extends longitudinally in the vertical direction as seen during normal installation and use of the gully 100. The horizontal opening of the inlet 101 has a circumferential area or a diameter smaller than a largest cross-sectional area of the body 103. For example, the inlet 102 has a cross-sectional area smaller than the cross-sectional area of the first 103b and the second 103c central modular body parts, of the bottom modular part 103d and of the bottom of the top modular part 103a.

[0158] Fig. 1 further shows the rib structure comprising a pair of joint ribs circumferentially extending between the ribs of said pair of first ribs. The joint rib may comprise a bottom joint rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib comprised in a second modular body part adjacent to the first modular part. For example, a first joint rib comprises a first bottom joint rib in the top modular body part 103a and a first top joint rib in the first central modular body part 103b, a second joint rib comprises a second bottom joint rib in the first central modular body part 103b and a second top joint rib in the second central modular body part 103c, and a third joint rib comprises a third bottom joint rib in the second central modular body part 103c and a third top joint rib in the bottom modular body part 103d, as also shown in Fig. 2.

[0159] The one or more first zones in Fig. 1 are shown as first zones having parts in adjacent modular body parts. For example, a first of a plurality of first zones has parts in the top 103a and the first central 103b modular body parts, a second of the plurality of first zones has parts in the first 103b and the second 103c central modular body parts, and a third of the plurality of first zones has parts in the second central 103c and the bottom modular body parts.

[0160] It can be seen in Fig. 1 that the rib structure comprises a first rib adjacent to the pair of joint ribs, preferably to one of the top or bottom joint ribs, said first rib narrowing towards the respective joint rib in the modular body part at one or more second zones. Preferably, some modular body parts comprise another pair of first ribs 112 each being adjacent to a top and a bottom rib of the respective modular rib, said pair of first ribs 112 narrowing towards the respectively adjacent top and bottom ribs in the modular body part at the one or more second zones, see also the pair of first ribs 212 in figures 4, 5, 8 and 9. It will be understood that said other pair of first ribs 112 widen in the modular body part at the one or more second zones. In cases, where a modular body part comprises more than two first ribs, it will be appreciated that another pair of said more than two first ribs having adjacent top and bottom ribs of the modular part would widen as described above. For example, another first pair of adjacent first ribs widens at a first of the plurality of second zones in the top modular body part 103a, a second pair of adjacent first ribs widens at a second of the plurality of second zones in the first central body part 103b, a third pair of adjacent first ribs widens at a third of the plurality of second zones in the second central body part 103c. The bottom modular body part 103c comprises one first rib which narrows towards the top joint rib of the bottom modular body part 103d. It will be understood that a top rib of the pair of adjacent first ribs in the top modular body part 103a narrows towards the top rib of the top modular body part 103a (i.e., the top rib formed at the point where the tapering of the top modular body part ends at the inlet 101) and the bottom rib of the pair of adjacent first ribs in the top modular body part 103a narrows towards the bottom joint rib of the top modular body part 103a. Similarly, a top rib of the pair of adjacent first ribs in the first central modular body part 103b narrows towards the top joint rib of the first central modular body part 103b and the bottom rib of the pair of adjacent first ribs in the first central modular body part 103b narrows towards the bottom joint rib of the first central modular body part 103b; a top rib of the pair of adjacent first ribs in the second central modular body part 103c narrows towards the top joint rib of the second central modular body part 103c and the bottom rib of the pair of adjacent first ribs in the second central modular body part 103c narrows towards the bottom joint rib of the second central modular body part 103c.

[0161] Fig. 1 further shows the body 103 comprising a lateral protrusion 114 in the enclosing wall 105 outwardly (i.e., from the interior towards the exterior of the body 103) at the one or more first zones and/or the one or more second zones. Preferably, the lateral protrusion is formed on top of the bottom rib. This will be described in further detail with reference to Fig. 2.

[0162] The body 103 may be a substantially cylindrical hollow body 103. Alternatively, the body 103 tapers over substantially at least a part of the body 103, preferably the entire body 103.

[0163] As can be seen, the gully 100 of Fig. 1 combines the features as described in the aforementioned embodiments of at least the first and sixth aspects, preferably in addition to at least one of the second to fifth aspects which will be described in further detail with reference to Fig. 2.

[0164] Fig. 2 shows an exploded view of a gully 100 (e.g., the gully of Fig. 1) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and Fig. 3 shows a cross-section of the gully 100 of Fig. 2, which correspond in many aspects and/or features to the gully 100 of Fig. 1, therefore, only the differences will be described here for the sake of brevity.

[0165] The gully 100 according to Figs. 2 and 3 further comprises a filter 121 mounted to the body 103, the filter 121 is provided for filtering the fluid before draining said fluid via the outlet 102. The filter 121 extends longitudinally inside the body 103 and comprises a plurality of modular filter parts 121a, 121b. The bottom of each of the plurality of modular filter parts 121a, 121b does not extend beyond the bottom of a respective modular body part in which the modular filter part is located. For example, the top modular filter part 121a is located in the top modular body part 103a and does not extend beyond the bottom (e.g., the first bottom joint rib) of the top modular body part 103a, and a first central modular filter part 121b is located in the first central modular body part 103b and does not extend beyond the bottom (e.g., the second bottom joint rib) of the first central modular body part 103b. Although not shown in Figs. 2 and 3, a second central modular filter part may be located in the second central modular body part 103c and does not extend beyond the bottom (e.g., the third bottom joint rib) of the second central modular body part 103c, and the bottom modular filter part may be located in the bottom modular body part 103d and does not extend beyond the bottom (e.g., the closed bottom end) of the bottom modular body part 103d. It will be understood that the filter part 121 comprises at least two modular filter parts.

[0166] In other words, each of the plurality of modular filter parts 121a, 121b has a length up to but not equal to a length of the respective modular body part in which the modular filter part is located. The length is measured longitudinally. For example, a length of the top modular body part 103a is measured from where the tapering of the top modular body part 103a ends to the bottom (e.g., the first bottom joint rib) of the top modular body part 103a, a length of the first central modular body part 103b is measured from a top (e.g., the first top joint rib) to the bottom (e.g., the second bottom joint rib) of the first central modular body part 103b, a length of the second central modular body part 103c is measured from a top (e.g., the second top joint rib) to the bottom (e.g., the third bottom joint rib) of the second central modular body part 103c, and a length of the bottom modular body part 103d is measured from a top (e.g., the third top joint rib) to the bottom (e.g., the bottom closed end) of the bottom modular body part 103d.

[0167] Each of the modular filter parts comprises a filtration part having a plurality of filtration holes 122. The plurality of filtration holes 122 in the filtration part in one of the modular filter parts may be distributed differently compared to the plurality of filtration holes in the filtration part in another of the modular filter parts, and/or wherein the plurality of filtration holes in the filtration part in one of the modular filter parts have different diameters compared to the plurality of filtration holes in the filtration part in another of the modular filter parts. In one example, the filtration holes in the top modular filter part 121a are distributed farther apart than the filtration holes in the first central modular body part 103b. In another example, the filtration holes in the top modular filter part 121a are grouped into two first groups and the filtration holes in the first central modular body part 103b are also grouped into two second groups, wherein the two first groups are distributed farther apart than the two second groups. In another example, the filtration holes in the top modular filter part 121a have a larger diameter than the filtration holes in the first central modular body part 103b. It will be appreciated that example embodiments include one or more combinations of the afore-mentioned examples. A distance between the filtration holes 122 (e.g., between a center of a first hole and the center of a second hole or between closest points on the circumferences of the first and second holes), between the groups of filtration holes 122 (e.g., between the closest holes between the two groups) is measured circumferentially. As explained throughout the present disclosure, in case an odor lock function is desired, at least the top modular filter part does not comprise any filtration holes. In some embodiments, as is shown in Figure 16, the top modular filter part 121a does not comprise any filtration holes such that it functions as an odor lock, as explained herein before.

[0168] In Fig. 2, the filter 121, particularly the modular filter parts are substantially cylindrical. As can be understood from Fig. 2, the filter is provided to be inserted through the inlet 102 from outside the gully 100. The filter 121 comprises gripping means 123 for gripping the filter 121 to insert into or remove from the gully 100. The gripping means 123 may be a handle, shaft, stem, arm, holder, etc. The gripping means 123 may be flexible, such that it can be easily connected to the filter 121.

[0169] The modular filter parts may be connected to each other by means of complementary threads (e.g., similar to a screw cap) or any other connection means, such as a locking means (e.g., complementary hook-like structures). The modular filter parts may be connected or locked to each other by locking means of the modular filter parts. An example is shown with reference to Fig. 12, where the a first modular filter part, such as the top modular filter part 121a, has a bottom locking means 133a, and a second modular filter part, such as the first central modular filter part 121b, has a top locking means 133b complementary to the bottom locking means 133a, such that when the first and second modular filter parts are connected or locked to each other, the complementary top and bottom locking means lock to each other. In Fig. 12, the locking means of the modular filter parts are shown to be complementary hook-like structures.

[0170] As can be further see in Fig. 2, the gully 100 further comprises a seal 125 in between the modular parts 103a-103d. This will be described in more detail with reference to Figs. 10A, 10B.

[0171] Fig. 2 also shows that the rib structure comprises a bottom joint rib extending circumferentially along the bottom of a first modular body part and a top joint rib extending circumferentially along a top of a second modular body part. For example, the bottom joint ribs of the top 103a, the first central 103b and the second central 103b modular body parts, and the top joint ribs of the first central 103b, the second central 103b and the bottom 103d modular body parts. The bottom joint rib comprises a first connector part 117 and the top joint rib comprises a second connector part 115 complementary to the first connector part 117. It will be understood that the first connector part 117 is a receiving slot provided in the enclosing wall 105 of said one of the modular body part, the receiving slot being formed by a lateral protrusion 114 of the enclosing wall 105. This can be seen an outward protrusion in the enclosing wall 105. The first connector part 117 is configured to receive the second connector part 115 of the adjacent modular body part. The second connector part 115 is a protrusion forming part of the enclosing wall 105 (as seen in Fig. 2). In this example, the first connector part 117 is a bottom connector part and the second connector part 115 is a top connector part. This will be described in even more detail with reference to Figs. 11A, 11B.

[0172] As can be seen, the gully 100 of Figs. 2 and 3 comprise features as described in the aforementioned embodiments of at least the first, third, fifth and sixth aspects, preferably in addition to at least one of the second, fourth and seventh aspects which will be described in further detail with reference to Fig. 8 and optionally Figs. 14 and 15.

[0173] Although Figs. 1-3 show embodiments of the gully 100, wherein the body 103 comprises a plurality of modular body parts 103a-103d, it will be appreciated that the body 103 may be a single part, for example a gully comprising features as described in the aforementioned embodiments of the first aspect in combination with at least one of the second and fourth aspects.

[0174] Fig. 4 shows a gully 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which corresponds in many aspects and/or features to the gully 100 of Fig. 1. Fig. 5 shows an exploded view of a gully 200 (e.g. the gully of Fig. 4), which corresponds in many aspects and/or features to the gully 100 of Fig. 2. Fig. 6 shows cross-sectional view of the gully 200 of Fig. 5, which corresponds in many aspects and/or features to the gully 100 of Fig. 3. Fig. 7 shows cross-sectional view of a gully 200 (e.g., the gully of Fig. 4) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which corresponds in many aspects and/or features to the gully 100 of Fig. 1. Fig. 8 shows a gully 200 (e.g., a different perspective of the gully of Fig. 4) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which corresponds in many aspects and/or features to the gully 100 of Fig. 1 or Fig. 4. Fig. 9 shows an exploded view of a gully 200 (e.g. the gully of Fig. 8 or a different perspective of the gully of Fig. 4), which corresponds in many aspects and/or features to the gully 100 of Fig. 2. The filter 221 (e.g., in the gully of Figs. 5 or 6) corresponds in many aspects and/or features to the filter 121 of Fig. 12. Therefore, only the differences will be described here for the sake of brevity.

[0175] In Figs. 4 and 5, the cross configuration 211 is similar to the cross configuration 111 of Fig. 1, however, the cross configuration 211 is formed at one or more other first zones on the outer surface of the body 203. For example, the cross configuration 211 is formed at two first zones, a first being located at the outlet 202 and a second being located circumferentially opposite to the first. We refer to Figs. 4 and 5 compared to Figs. 8 and 9, where Fig. 8 and 9 may show a different perspective of the gully of Figs. 4 and 5.

[0176] In Figs. 4, 5, 8, and 9, the body 203 comprises a lateral protrusion 214 in the enclosing wall 205 outwardly (i.e., from the interior towards the exterior of the body 203) only at the one or more second zones. This ensures that there is even more space for the outlet 202 at the one of said one or more first zones. Furthermore, this ensures that the one or more first zones in all modular body parts are aligned and that the one or more second zones in all modular body parts are aligned.

[0177] Additionally, in Figs. 5 and 9, the first connector part 217 is a receiving slot provided in the enclosing wall 205 of said one of the modular body part, the receiving slot being formed by the lateral protrusion 214 of the enclosing wall 205. This can be seen as an outward protrusion of the enclosing wall 205. The first connector part 217 is configured to receive the second connector part 215 of the adjacent modular body part located at also the one or more second zones.

[0178] In Figs. 8 and 9, it is shown that the outlet 202 is located at a first circumferential location between a pair of first ribs which are separated by a first distance D1, wherein the first distance D1 is larger at the first circumferential location than at a second circumferential location adjacent to the first circumferential location. In this example, the first circumferential location is one of said one or more first zones. The first distance D1 is measured longitudinally between a top first rib 210a (e.g., adjacent to the inlet 201 or the top of the modular body part, such as the top modular body part 203a) and a bottom first rib 210b (e.g., adjacent to the bottom of the modular body part or the bottom joint rib, such as the top modular body part 203a or the first bottom joint rib). In this example, where the outlet 202 is located in the top modular body part 203a, the top first rib 210a widens in the top modular body part 103a. It will be understood that the top first rib 210a narrows towards the inlet 201 or towards the top rib of the top modular body part 103a (i.e., the top rib formed at the point where the tapering of the top modular body part ends at the inlet 201), such that the first distance D1 is greater than in a zone circumferentially adjacent to the first zone wherein the outlet 202 is located (i.e., the one of said one or more first zones). The pair of first ribs may also be separated by the first distance D1 at another of said one or more first zones, preferably in the same modular body part as the outlet 202, as shown in Fig. 4. This may provide more locations for the outlet 202 to be provided, e.g. as an alternative or an additional outlet 202 for improved installation and/or manufacturing.

[0179] Furthermore, Figs. 8 and 9 show that the outlet 202 is located at a first circumferential location between a pair of second ribs which are separated by a second distance D2 larger than a third distance D3 separating another pair of second ribs at a circumferential location other than the first circumferential location. The second D2 and third D3 distances are measured circumferentially or laterally, preferably along the circumference of a cross-section of body 203. The second distance D2 is measured between second ribs 209a, 209b circumferentially adjacent to the outlet on both sides of the outlet 202. The third distance may be measured between a pair of adjacent second ribs connecting parts of the first ribs forming the cross configuration 211 in another modular body part (e.g., the first central 203b, second central 203c or bottom 203d modular body part) other than the modular body part (e.g., the top modular body part 203a) wherein outlet is located 202 or in an adjacent modular body part to modular body part wherein outlet is located 202. Said pair of adjacent second ribs may form the diamond-like configuration with the first ribs forming the cross configuration 211.

[0180] From Figs. 8 and 9, it can be further seen that the first distance D1 is larger than a fourth distance D4 (measured similar to D1) separating another pair of first ribs circumferentially extending in a modular body part the modular body part wherein the outlet is located, e.g. other than the top modular body part 203a in this case. The other pair of first ribs may be forming a cross configuration 211. It may also be that the second distance D2 is larger than a fifth distance D5 (measured similar to D2) separating another pair of second ribs longitudinally extending in the modular body part the modular body part wherein the outlet is located, preferably other than the top modular body part 203a as is in this example. For example, the other pair of second ribs is the pair of adjacent second ribs forming the diamond-like configuration in one of the modular body parts (e.g., the first 203b or second 203c central body parts) other than the modular body part wherein the outlet 202 is located (e.g., the top modular body part 203a).

[0181] Figs. 8 and 9 further show the rib structure comprising a first rib at the first circumferential location , said first rib being adjacent to the inlet 201, preferably comprised in the top modular body part 203a, said first rib adjacent to the inlet 201 narrowing towards the inlet 201. It will be understood that said first rib adjacent to the inlet 201 widens such that a distance between said first rib and the inlet 201 adjacent thereto decreases and that a distance between said rib adjacent to the inlet 201 and the end (e.g., a bottom joint rib) of the modular body part opposite to the inlet 201 widens or increases, preferably the end (e.g., the first bottom joint rib) of the top modular body part 203a. As shown further, the rib structure comprises a further second rib connecting a part of said first rib being adjacent to the inlet 201 at the first circumferential location and said further second rib further connects a part of the outlet 202. Said further second rib may be located halfway between said pair of second ribs 209a, 209b where the outlet 202 is located in between. The second distance D2 may be more than double the third D3 and/or fifth D5 distances, such that a distance between one said pair of second ribs 209a, 209b and the further second rib is greater than the third D3 and/or fifth D5 distances.

[0182] In Fig. 7, the second ribs 209 further extend longitudinally along the inner surface of the of the enclosing 205. It will be understood that the second ribs 109 of Figs. 1-3 may also further extend longitudinally along the inner surface of the of the enclosing 105. The enclosing wall 105; 205 may comprise an enclosing wall of the inlet 101; 201 and of the outlet 102; 202. The enclosing wall 105; 205 may have a uniform thickness of 3-10 mm, typically 4-6 mm.

[0183] Figs. 10A, 10B show perspective views of a cross-section of the gully 200 of Fig. 7, particularly at first zone where a cross configuration 211 is formed, in a connected and a disconnected state, preferably locked and unlocked, respectively. It will be understood that the cross-sections may be of the gully 100 of any of Figs 1-3. Furthermore, Figs. 11A, 11B show a part of the gully 200 of any of Figs. 4-9. It will be understood that it may be a part of the gully 100 of any of Figs 1-3, wherein the first connector part 115, the second connector part 117, and the lateral protrusion 114 would be located only at the one or more second zones. It is preferred that the bottom gully part also comprises a receiving slot or a recess at the bottom area (116) of the enclosing wall which is at the same circumferential position as the protrusion forming the second connector part, such that multiple bottom parts can be stacked for transport or storage without damaging the second connector part. The receiving slot or recess of the bottom gully part may be complementary to the second connector part and specifically adapted for receiving the second connector part, or it may simply be an absence of wall material. In any case the receiving slot or recess of the bottom gully part is preferably configured to accommodate the second connector part of another bottom gully part when stacked on each other.

[0184] In Figs. 10A, 10B, the pair of joint ribs extends circumferentially, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib 213a which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib 213b which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part wherein the bottom joint rib 213a comprises a bottom locking means 216a complementary to a top locking means 216b comprised in the top joint rib 213b. In this example, relating to a section of the gully 200 of Fig. 7, the first modular body part is the first central body part 203b and the second modular body part is the second central body part 203c. In embodiments of the invention, the enclosing wall of the first modular body part has a circumferentially extending recess in the area where the enclosing wall of the first modular body part engages the enclosing wall of the second modular body part, and the enclosing wall of the second modular body part has a complementary circumferentially extending protrusion in the area where the enclosing wall of the first modular body part engages the enclosing wall of the second modular body part. This has the advantage that the modular walls are tightly engaged such that when joining the different modular body parts (e.g. using a hydraulic press), the pressure exerted by the top locking means comprised in the top joint rib on the seal cannot lead to bulging of the enclosing wall but instead results in a sustained strong pressure from the seal on the top locking means after the top and bottom locking means are engaged and thus a very strong locking of different modular body parts. The seal is preferably supported by a circumferential protrusion or flange of the enclosing wall of the second modular part. The part of the enclosing wall on which the seal is placed is typically provided in the form of a corrugated or discontinuous structure, which facilitates injection-molding. The circumferential protrusion or flange of the enclosing wall of the second modular part preferably merges into the bottom joint rib in a sloping fashion (206). This has the advantage that when joining the different modular body parts (e.g. using a hydraulic press), top locking means comprised in the top joint rib are guided outwardly to engage with the bottom locking means comprised in the bottom joint rib.

[0185] As shown in Figs. 10A and 10B, the seal 225 is deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall 205, the bottom joint rib 213a, the top joint rib 213b and the bottom locking means 216a. The enclosing wall 205 may comprise modular wall parts, one in each modular body part. Preferably, the space delimited by a second modular wall 205a (i.e., in the second modular body part), the bottom joint rib 213a, the top joint rib 213b and the bottom locking means 216a. The modular walls may have complementary surfaces, such that the bottom surface of the first modular wall 205a is complementary to the top surface of the second modular wall 205b. For example, the first modular wall 205a has a recess extending circumferentially and the second modular wall 205b has a protrusion extending circumferentially, wherein the recess and the protrusion are complementary, as shown in Figs. 10A, 10B. In another example, the first modular wall 205a has a protrusion extending circumferentially and the second modular wall 205b has a recess extending circumferentially. It will be understood that the second connector part 215 may be comprised in the second modular body part and may be part of the second modular wall 205b, wherein the second connector part 215 protrudes longitudinally from the circumferential protrusion, and the first connector part 217 may be comprised in the first modular body part and may be part of the first modular wall 205a, wherein the first connector part 217 protrudes longitudinally from the circumferential protrusion comprised in the first modular body part. (e.g., as shown in Figs. 10A, 10B compared to 11A, 11B). Alternatively, the second connector part 217 may be comprised in the first modular body part and may be part of the first modular wall 205a, wherein the second connector part 217 protrudes longitudinally from the circumferential protrusion comprised in the first modular body part, and the first connector part 217 may be comprised in the second modular body part and may be part of the second modular wall 205b, wherein the first connector part 217 protrudes longitudinally from the circumferential protrusion.

[0186] Furthermore, the bottom 216a and top 216b locking means in the modular body parts are shown to be complementary hook-like structures in Figs. 10A, 10B.

[0187] Fig. 13 shows a perspective view of an amphibian escape means 135, being a mesh-like structure, such as a mat. Said escape means 135 may be included in the gully 100; 200, preferably extending at least halfway into the gulley 100; 200. It will be understood that the escape means 135 may be vertical (i.e., extending longitudinally) and extends above the inlet 101; 201, e.g. into a cast iron street gully which is ordinarily connected to the inlet 101, 201 of the gully 100; 200 and which may feed water from the street into the gully 100; 200. The escape mean 135 may be provided for amphibians, such as frogs, to climb it, such that once the frogs get into the cast iron street gully they can escape from it again. The amphibian escape means 135 is preferably flexible.

[0188] Figs. 14 and 15 show a perspective view of a gripping means 323 and an insert 321 which can be e.g. a top modular filter part or an odor lock. It will be understood that the insert 321 disclosed herein with reference to Figs. 14 and 15, can be included in the gully according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, e.g. the gully 100; 200 of Figs. 1-10. For example, the insert 321 comprises a first rim 328 at the top of the insert 321, the first rim being configured to rest onto the body 103; 203 of the gully 100; 200, preferably configured to rest onto a second rim of the body 103; 203. The first rim 328 may be protruding outwardly and the second rim may be protruding inwardly, as shown with reference to the filter 121 in the gully 100 in Fig. 3 and with reference to the filter 221 in the gully 200 in Fig. 6. Furthermore, the plurality of holes 322 may correspond to the plurality of holes 122; 222 as described with reference to Figs. 2, 3, 5 and 6.

[0189] The insert 321 shown in Fig. 15 is typically a rigid filter. In case the insert 321 is a modular filter, the filter 312 comprises a plurality of modular rigid filter parts. In this case, the filter part shown in Fig. 15 is the top modular rigid filter part, which can be an odour lock or an araetor, as explained herein elsewhere.

[0190] As can be seen in Fig. 15, the rigid filter 321 or the top modular rigid filter part (which can be free of filtration holes such as to function as an odor lock) comprises at least one flange protruding radially, the at least one flange being provided for allowing a flexible filter to be fastened between the top of the rigid filter 321 or the top of the top modular rigid filter part and a lower of the at least one flange. In one example, the rigid filter 321 comprises one flange, wherein the flexible filter is able to be fastened above said flange and below the top of the rigid filter 321 (e.g., below the rim of the rigid filter 321). In another example, the rigid filter 321 comprises two flanges 326, 327, wherein the flexible filter is able to be fastened between the two flanges 326, 327 by the fastening means.

[0191] It is preferred that the insert 321 has a handle 323 which is configured such that when it is not in use, it rests within the enclosing wall of the insert on one or more supporting protrusions 334. It is furthermore preferred that the enclosing wall of the insert 321 comprises a flange or diameter step 335 below the resting position of the handle. The flange or diameter step 335 is preferably sloping such that a hook which is inserted is smoothly guided towards the handle to allow easy removal of the insert such as the odor lock or filter.

[0192] It is further shown that the seal 225 has a circular cross-section, similar to the seal 125; 225 in Figs. 2, 3, 5-7. However, the seal 125; 225 may have other shapes of cross-section, such as a rectangular or a square cross-section. It will be understood that the first 217 and the second 215 connector parts may form part of the enclosing wall 205, and thereby are located inwardly from the seal 225. It will be further appreciated that the seal 225 may be further delimited by one of the first 217 and second 215 connector parts, preferably by the connector part being the protrusion forming part of the enclosing wall 205, such that the space is delimited by the modular wall 205 (e.g., the first 205a or the second 205b modular wall), the bottom joint rib 213a, the top joint rib 213b, the bottom locking means 216a and said one of the first 217 and second 215 connector parts (e.g., the protrusion forming of part of the enclosing wall 205 or of the modular wall 205a; 205b.

[0193] The invention is further illustrated by the following embodiments.

1. A gully comprising a hollow body (103; 203) comprising:

• an inlet (101; 201) for receiving a fluid to be drained,
• an outlet (102; 202) for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid, and
• an enclosing wall (105; 205) and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs (110; 210) and second ribs (109; 209), the first ribs (110; 210) extending circumferentially along the outer surface, and the second ribs (109; 209) extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs (110; 210),

characterized in that the rib structure comprises a pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration (111; 211) on the outer surface of the body (103; 203) in which the ribs of the first pair or the projections of the trajectories of the ribs of the first pair intersect.

2. The gully according to embodiment 1, wherein the body (103; 203) comprises a plurality of modular body parts (103a-103d; 203a-203d).

3. The gully according to embodiment 2, wherein each rib of said pair of first ribs circumferentially extends along two adjacent modular body parts of the plurality of modular body parts (103a-103d; 203a-203d).

4. The gully according to embodiment 2 or 3, wherein said cross configuration (111; 211) extends along two adjacent modular body parts of the plurality of modular body parts (103a-103d; 203a-203d).

5. The gully according to any of embodiments 2-4, wherein each modular body part comprises first ribs which each forms part of a different cross configuration, preferably each form part of a cross configuration (111; 211) extending along two adjacent modular parts.

6. The gully according to any of embodiments 1-5, wherein the inlet (101; 201) and the outlet (102; 202) are comprised in a top half of the body, preferably in the top modular body part (103a; 203a).

7. The gully according to embodiment 6, wherein the body (103; 203) comprises a portion in the top half of the body which tapers inwardly towards the inlet (101; 201), preferably wherein the inlet (101; 201) is a substantially horizontal opening in the top half of the body, preferably in the top modular body part (103a; 203a).

8. The gully according to any of embodiments 1-7, wherein the rib structure comprises a pair of joint ribs circumferentially extending between the ribs of said pair of first ribs.

9. The gully according to embodiment 8, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib (213a) which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib (213b) which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part,
wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part, and wherein preferably the pair of first ribs forming the cross configuration (111) intersect the pair of joint ribs.

10. The gully according to any of embodiments 1-9, wherein the outlet is located at a same circumferential location as a cross configuration.

11. The gully according to any of embodiments 2-10, wherein the outlet (102; 202) is located at a first circumferential location between a pair of first ribs which are separated by a first distance D1, wherein the first distance D1 is larger at the first circumferential location than at a second circumferential location adjacent to the first circumferential location.

12. The gully according to any of embodiments 1-11, wherein the gully further comprises an insert (121, 221, 333, ) selected from an odor lock and/or a filter mounted to the hollow body and extending longitudinally inside the body.

13. The gully according to any of embodiments 1-12, further comprising at least one fastening structure (333) provided at an inner surface of the insert, the at least one fastening structure configured to engage amphibian escape means (135) inside the gully.

14. The gully according to any of embodiments 2-13, comprising a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs between the ribs of said pair of first ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib (213a) which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib (213b) which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part,

wherein the bottom joint rib (213a) comprises a bottom locking means (216a) complementary to a top locking means (216b) comprised in the top joint rib (213b),

wherein the gully comprises a seal (125; 225) deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall (105; 205), the bottom joint rib (213a) and the top joint rib (213b).

15. The gully according to any of embodiments 2-14, comprising a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs between the ribs of said pair of first ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib (213a) which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib (213b) which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part,

wherein one of the first and second modular body part comprises a bottom connector part (117; 217) which is complementary to a top connector part (115; 215) comprised in the other of the first and second modular body parts,

wherein the bottom connector part (117; 217) is a receiving slot provided in the enclosing wall (105; 205) of said one of the first and second modular body parts, the receiving slot being formed by a lateral protrusion (114, 214) of the enclosing wall and configured to receive the top connector part (115; 215) of the other of said first and second modular body parts,

wherein the top connector part (115; 215) is a protrusion of part of the enclosing wall extending from the top surface of the other of said first and second modular body parts.

16. A gully comprising a hollow body (103; 203) comprising:

• an inlet (101; 201) for receiving a fluid to be drained,
• an outlet (102; 202) for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid, and
• an enclosing wall (105; 205) and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall (105; 205), said rib structure having first ribs (110; 210) and second ribs (109; 209), the first ribs (110; 210) extending circumferentially along the outer surface, and the second ribs (109; 209) extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs (110; 210),

characterized in that the outlet (102; 202) is located at a first circumferential location between a pair of first ribs which are separated by a first distance D1, wherein the first distance D1 is larger at the first circumferential location than at a second circumferential location adjacent to the first circumferential location.

17. The gully according to embodiment 16, wherein the outlet (102; 202) is located at the first circumferential location between a pair of second ribs which are separated by a second distance D2 larger than a third distance D3 separating another pair of second ribs at a circumferential location other than the first circumferential location.

18. The gully according to embodiment 16 or 17, wherein the body (103; 203) comprises a plurality of modular body parts (103a-103d; 203a-203d).

19. The gully according to any of embodiments 16-18, wherein the outlet (102; 202) is located in a top half of the body, preferably in a top modular body part (103a-103d; 203a-203d).

20. The gully according to embodiment 19, wherein the outlet (102; 202) is located in the top modular body part (103a; 203a),
wherein the first distance D1 is larger than a fourth distance D4 separating another pair of first ribs circumferentially extending in a modular body part other than the top modular body part (103a; 203a).

21. The gully according to embodiment 19 or 20, wherein the outlet (102; 202) is located in the top modular body part (103a; 203a),
wherein the second distance D2 is larger than a fifth distance D5 separating a pair of second ribs located at the same circumferential position than the outlet in a modular body part other than the top modular body part (103a; 203a).

22. The gully according to any of embodiments 18-21, wherein the pair of first ribs are substantially parallel in the first and second circumferential location.

23. The gully according to any of embodiments 16-22, wherein the outlet (102; 202) is located at the first circumferential location between a pair of second ribs which are separated by a second distance D2 and wherein the first distance D1 and the second distance D2 are such that an outlet having any outer diameter within the range of 11-17 cm can be accommodated at the first circumferential location between a pair of first ribs separated by a distance D1 and between a pair of second ribs separated by a distance D2.

24. The gully according to any of embodiments 16-23, comprising a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs between the ribs of said pair of first ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib (213a) which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib (213b) which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part,

wherein the bottom joint rib (213a) comprises a bottom locking means (216a) complementary to a top locking means (216b) comprised in the top joint rib (213b),

wherein the gully comprises a seal (125; 225) deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall (105; 205), the bottom joint rib (213a) and the top joint rib (213b).

25. The gully according to any of embodiments 16-24, comprising a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs between the ribs of said pair of first ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib (213a) which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib (213b) which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part,

wherein one of the first and second modular body part comprises a bottom connector part (117; 217) which is complementary to a top connector part (115; 215) comprised in the other of the first and second modular body parts,

wherein the bottom connector part (117; 217) is a receiving slot provided in the enclosing wall (105; 205) of said one of the first and second modular body parts, the receiving slot being formed by a lateral protrusion (114, 214) of the enclosing wall and configured to receive the top connector part (115; 215) of the other of said first and second modular body parts,

wherein the top connector part (115; 215) is a protrusion of part of the enclosing wall extending from the top surface of the other of said first and second modular body parts.

26. A gully comprising a hollow body (103; 203) comprising:

• a plurality of modular body parts (103a-103d; 203a-203d),
• an inlet (101; 201) for receiving a fluid to be drained, and
• an outlet (102; 202) for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid,

wherein the gully further comprises a filter (121; 221) mounted to the hollow body (103; 203) for filtering the fluid before draining, the filter extending longitudinally inside the body (103; 203) and comprising a plurality of modular filter parts,

wherein the bottom of each modular filter part does not extend beyond the bottom of the respective modular body part in which the modular filter part is located.

27. The gully according to embodiment 26, wherein the total number of the modular filter parts comprised in the gully equals the total number of the modular body parts comprised in the gully. (103a-103d; 203a-203d).

28. The gully according to any of embodiment 26 or 27, wherein the filter (121; 221) is substantially cylindrical.

29. The gully according to any of embodiments 26-28, wherein the filter (121; 221) is configured to be inserted through the inlet (101; 201) from outside the gully.

30. The gully according to any of embodiments 26-29, wherein the bottom modular filter part comprises a bottom enclosing wall such that the only fluid passage is through the plurality of filtration holes (122; 222).

31. The gully according to any one of embodiments 26-30, wherein the enclosing wall of the filter is closed in the top modular filter part such that the filter has the dual function of filter and an odor lock.

32. The gully according to any one of embodiments 26-30, wherein the enclosing wall of the filter comprises a plurality of filtration holes (122; 222) in the top modular filter part such that the filter aerates the outlet.

33. The gully according to any of embodiments 26-32, wherein the body (103; 203) comprises an enclosing wall (105; 205) and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs (110; 210) and second ribs (109; 209), the first ribs (110; 210) extending circumferentially along the outer surface, and the second ribs (109; 209) extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs (110; 210),
wherein the rib structure comprises a pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration (111; 211) on the outer surface of the body (103; 203).

34. The gully according to any of embodiments 26-33, comprising a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs between the ribs of said pair of first ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib (213a) which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib (213b) which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part,

wherein the bottom joint rib (213a) comprises a bottom locking means (216a) complementary to a top locking means (216b) comprised in the top joint rib (213b),

wherein the gully comprises a seal (125; 225) deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall (105; 205), the bottom joint rib (213a) and the top joint rib (213b).

35. The gully according to any of embodiments 26-34, comprising a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs between the ribs of said pair of first ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib (213a) which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib (213b) which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part,

wherein one of the first and second modular body part comprises a bottom connector part (117; 217) which is complementary to a top connector part (115; 215) comprised in the other of the first and second modular body parts,

wherein the bottom connector part (117; 217) is a receiving slot provided in the enclosing wall (105; 205) of said one of the first and second modular body parts, the receiving slot being formed by a lateral protrusion (114, 214) of the enclosing wall and configured to receive the top connector part (115; 215) of the other of said first and second modular body parts,

wherein the top connector part (115; 215) is a protrusion of part of the enclosing wall extending from the top surface of the other of said first and second modular body parts.

36. A gully comprising a hollow body (103; 203) comprising:

• an inlet (101; 201) for receiving a fluid to be drained, and
• an outlet (102; 202) for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid,
• optionally comprising an insert selected from an odor lock and/or a filter mounted to the hollow body and extending longitudinally inside the body,

wherein the gully or the insert further comprises a fastening structure provided at an inner surface of the gully or the insert, the at least one fastening structure configured to engage an amphibian escape means inside the gully.

37. The gully according to embodiment 36, wherein the fastening structure comprises a pair of protrusions, preferably a pair of hook-shaped protrusions.

38. The gully according to embodiment 36 or 37, wherein the gully comprises an insert selected from an odor lock and/or a filter mounted to the hollow body and extending longitudinally inside the body, the insert comprising the fastening structure at an inner surface of the enclosing wall of the insert.

39. The gully according to any of embodiments 36-38, wherein the amphibian escape means (135) is a mat, preferably a slope mat, an embankment mat or a crawl mat.

40. The gully according to embodiments 39, wherein the mat is made of a plastic mesh, preferably a net comprising optionally recycled polyethylene and/or polypropylene.

41. The gully according to any of embodiments 36-40, wherein the body (103; 203) comprises an enclosing wall (105; 205) and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs (110; 210) and second ribs (109; 209), the first ribs (110; 210) extending circumferentially along the outer surface, and the second ribs (109; 209) extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs (110; 210),
wherein the rib structure comprises a pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration (111; 211) on the outer surface of the body (103; 203).

42. The gully according to any of embodiments 36-41, comprising a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs between the ribs of said pair of first ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib (213a) which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib (213b) which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part,

wherein the bottom joint rib (213a) comprises a bottom locking means (216a) complementary to a top locking means (216b) comprised in the top joint rib (213b),

wherein the gully comprises a seal (125; 225) deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall (105; 205), the bottom joint rib (213a) and the top joint rib (213b).

43. The gully according to any of embodiments 36-42, comprising a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs between the ribs of said pair of first ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib (213a) which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib (213b) which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part,

wherein one of the first and second modular body part comprises a bottom connector part (117; 217) which is complementary to a top connector part (115; 215) comprised in the other of the first and second modular body parts,

wherein the bottom connector part (117; 217) is a receiving slot provided in the enclosing wall (105; 205) of said one of the first and second modular body parts, the receiving slot being formed by a lateral protrusion (114, 214) of the enclosing wall and configured to receive the top connector part (115; 215) of the other of said first and second modular body parts,

wherein the top connector part (115; 215) is a protrusion of part of the enclosing wall extending from the top surface of the other of said first and second modular body parts.

44. The gully according to any of embodiments 36-43 comprising an enclosing wall (105; 205) and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall (105; 205), said rib structure having first ribs (110; 210) and second ribs (109; 209), the first ribs (110; 210) extending circumferentially along the outer surface, and the second ribs (109; 209) extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs (110; 210),
wherein the outlet (102; 202) is located at a first circumferential location between a pair of first ribs which are separated by a first distance D1, wherein the first distance D1 is larger at the first circumferential location than at a second circumferential location adjacent to the first circumferential location.

45. The gully according to any of embodiments 36-44, wherein the gully comprises a plurality of modular body parts (103a-103d; 203a-203d), and the gully further comprises a filter (121; 221) mounted to the hollow body (103; 203) for filtering the fluid before draining, the filter extending longitudinally inside the body (103; 203) and comprising a plurality of modular filter parts,
wherein the bottom of each modular filter part does not extend beyond the bottom of the respective modular body part in which the modular filter part is located.

46. A gully comprising a hollow body (103; 203) comprising:

• a plurality of modular parts (103a-103d; 203a-203d),
• an inlet (101; 201) for receiving a fluid to be drained,
• an outlet (102; 202) for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid,
• an enclosing wall (105; 205) and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs (110; 210) and second ribs (109; 209), the first ribs (110; 210) extending circumferentially along the outer surface, and the second ribs (109; 209) extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs (110; 210),
  the rib structure comprising a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib (213a) which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib (213b) which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part wherein the bottom joint rib (213a) comprises a bottom locking means (216a) complementary to a top locking means (216b) comprised in the top joint rib (213b), wherein the gully comprises a seal (125; 225) deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall (105; 205), the bottom joint rib (213a) and the top joint rib (213b).

47. The gully according to embodiment 46, wherein each modular body part comprises a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs (110; 210) and second ribs (109; 209), the first ribs (110; 210) extending circumferentially along the outer surface, and the second ribs (109; 209) extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs (110; 210).

48. The gully according to embodiment 47, wherein when the modular body parts (103a-103d; 203a-203d) are locked to each other, the seal (125; 225) exerts pressure on the top locking means (216b).

49. The gully according to embodiment 48, wherein the bottom (216a) and top (216b) locking means are complementary hook-like structures, preferably circumferentially extending complementary hook-like structures.

50. The gully according to any one of embodiments 46-49 wherein the seal is supported by an optionally corrugated or discontinuous circumferential protrusion or flange of the enclosing wall of the second modular part which merges into the bottom joint rib (213a) in a sloping fashion (206).

51. The gully according to any one of embodiments 46-50 wherein the enclosing wall of the first modular body part has a circumferentially extending recess in the area where the enclosing wall of the first modular body part engages the enclosing wall of the second modular body part, and the enclosing wall of the second modular body part has a complementary circumferentially extending protrusion in the area where the enclosing wall of the first modular body part engages the enclosing wall of the second modular body part.

52. The gully according to embodiment 52, wherein the seal (125; 225) is an O-ring.

53. The gully according to any of embodiments 46-52, wherein the body (103; 203) comprises an enclosing wall (105; 205) and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs (110; 210) and second ribs (109; 209), the first ribs (110; 210) extending circumferentially along the outer surface, and the second ribs (109; 209) extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs (110; 210),
wherein the rib structure comprises a pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration (111; 211) on the outer surface of the body (103; 203).

54. The gully according to any of embodiments 46-53, comprising a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs between the ribs of said pair of first ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib (213a) which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib (213b) which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part,

wherein one of the first and second modular body part comprises a bottom connector part (117; 217) which is complementary to a top connector part (115; 215) comprised in the other of the first and second modular body parts,

wherein the bottom connector part (117; 217) is a receiving slot provided in the enclosing wall (105; 205) of said one of the first and second modular body parts, the receiving slot being formed by a lateral protrusion (114, 214) of the enclosing wall and configured to receive the top connector part (115; 215) of the other of said first and second modular body parts,

wherein the top connector part (115; 215) is a protrusion of part of the enclosing wall extending from the top surface of the other of said first and second modular body parts.

55. The gully according to any of embodiments 46-54, wherein the gully comprises a plurality of modular body parts (103a-103d; 203a-203d), and the gully further comprises a filter (121; 221) mounted to the hollow body (103; 203) for filtering the fluid before draining, the filter extending longitudinally inside the body (103; 203) and comprising a plurality of modular filter parts,
wherein the bottom of each modular filter part does not extend beyond the bottom of the respective modular body part in which the modular filter part is located.

56. A gully comprising a hollow body (103; 203) comprising:

• a plurality of modular parts (103a-103d; 203a-203d),
• an inlet (101; 201) for receiving a fluid to be drained,
• an outlet (102; 202) for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid,
• an enclosing wall (105; 205) and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall (105; 205), said rib structure having first ribs (110; 210) and second ribs (109; 209), the first ribs (110; 210) extending circumferentially along the outer surface, and the second ribs (109; 209) extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs (110; 210), and
• a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib (213a) which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib (213b) which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part,

wherein one of the first and second modular body part comprises a first connector part (117; 217) which is complementary to a second connector part (115; 215) comprised in the other of the first and second modular body parts,

wherein the first connector part (117; 217) is a receiving slot provided in the enclosing wall of said one of the first and second modular body parts, the receiving slot being formed by a lateral protrusion (114; 214) of the enclosing wall and configured to receive the second connector part (115; 215) of the other of said first and second modular body parts,

wherein the second connector (115; 215) part is a protrusion forming part of the enclosing wall and longitudinally extending from the outer surface of the other of said first and second modular body parts,

wherein preferably the first connector part (117; 217) is comprised in the first modular body part, and preferably the second connector part (115; 215) is comprised in the second modular body part.

57. The gully according to embodiment 56, wherein the gully comprises a seal (125; 225) deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall (105; 205), the bottom joint rib (213a) and the top joint rib (213b), wherein the bottom joint rib (213a) preferably comprises a bottom locking means (216a) complementary to a top locking means (216b) comprised in the top joint rib (213b) and the seal is preferably deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall, the bottom joint rib and the top joint rib.

58. The gully according to embodiment 57, wherein the first (117; 217) and second (115; 215) connector parts are located inwardly from the seal (125; 225).

59. The gully according to embodiment 57 or 58, wherein the bottom (216a) and top (216b) locking means are complementary hook-like structures, preferably circumferentially extending hook-like structures.

60. The gully according to any one of embodiments 56-59 wherein the receiving slot is formed by an outward lateral protrusion (114; 214) of the enclosing wall.

61. The gully according to any one of embodiments 57-60 wherein the seal is supported by an optionally corrugated or discontinuous circumferential protrusion or flange of the enclosing wall of the second modular part which merges into the bottom joint rib (213a) in a sloping fashion (206).

62. The gully according to any one of embodiments 56-61 wherein the enclosing wall of the first modular body part has a circumferentially extending recess in the area where the enclosing wall of the first modular body part engages the enclosing wall of the second modular body part, and the enclosing wall of the second modular body part has a complementary circumferentially extending protrusion in the area where the enclosing wall of the first modular body part engages the enclosing wall of the second modular body part.

63. The gully according to any of embodiments 56-62, wherein the body (103; 203) comprises an enclosing wall (105; 205) and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs (110; 210) and second ribs (109; 209), the first ribs (110; 210) extending circumferentially along the outer surface, and the second ribs (109; 209) extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs (110; 210),
wherein the rib structure comprises a pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration (111; 211) on the outer surface of the body (103; 203).

64. The gully according to any of embodiments 56-63, wherein the gulley comprises an insert selected from an odor lock and/or a filter mounted to the hollow body and extending longitudinally inside the body, the insert preferably comprising a fastening structure configured to engage an amphibian escape means inside the gully, the fastening structure being provided at an inner surface of the enclosing wall of the insert.

65. The gully according to any of embodiments 56-64, wherein the gully comprises a plurality of modular body parts (103a-103d; 203a-203d), and the gully further comprises a filter (121; 221) mounted to the hollow body (103; 203) for filtering the fluid before draining, the filter extending longitudinally inside the body (103; 203) and comprising a plurality of modular filter parts,
wherein the bottom of each modular filter part does not extend beyond the bottom of the respective modular body part in which the modular filter part is located.

66. A gully comprising a hollow body (103; 203) comprising:

• an inlet (101; 201) for receiving a fluid to be drained, and
• an outlet (102; 202) for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid,

wherein the gully further comprises a rigid filter (321) mounted to the hollow body (103; 203) for filtering the fluid before draining, the rigid filter extending longitudinally inside the body (103; 203),

wherein the gully further comprises a flexible filter fastened to an outer surface of the rigid filter (321).

67. The gully according to embodiment 66, wherein the rigid filter (321) comprises a plurality of modular filter parts.

68. The gully according to embodiment 66 or 67, wherein the rigid filter (321) comprises a first rim (328) at the top of the rigid filter (321), the first rim (328) being configured to rest onto a second rim of the body (103; 203), wherein the first rim protrudes outwardly and the second rim protrudes inwardly, preferably, the top modular filter part comprises the first rim (328).

69. The gully according to any of embodiments 66-68, wherein the rigid filter (321) comprises at least one flange protruding radially, the at least one flange being provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the top of the rigid filter (321) and the lower of the at least one flange, preferably the top modular filter part comprises the at least one flange.

70. The gully according to any of embodiments 66-69, wherein the rigid filter (321) comprises two flanges (326, 327) protruding radially, the flanges (326, 327) being provided for allowing the flexible filter to be fastened between the two flanges (326, 327), preferably the top modular filter part comprises the two flanges (326, 327).

71. The gully according to any of embodiments 66-70, wherein the flexible filter comprises woven or nonwoven materials, such as fibers, netting or geotextile materials.

72. A rigid filter (321) for a gully comprising a hollow body (103; 203) comprising:

• an inlet (101; 201) for receiving a fluid to be drained, and
• an outlet (102; 202) for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid,

wherein the rigid filter (321) is configured for mounting to the hollow body (103; 203) for filtering the fluid before draining, the rigid filter extending longitudinally inside the body (103; 203) and wherein the rigid filter comprises at least one radially protruding flange, the at least one flange being provided for allowing a flexible filter to be fastened between the top of the rigid filter (321) and the lower of the at least one flange.

73. The rigid filter according to embodiment 72, wherein the rigid filter (321) comprises a plurality of modular filter parts.

74. The rigid filter according to embodiment 72 or 73, wherein the rigid filter (321) comprises a first rim (328) at the top of the rigid filter (321), the first rim (328) being configured to rest onto a second rim of the body (103; 203), wherein the first rim protrudes outwardly and the second rim protrudes inwardly, preferably, the top modular filter part comprises the first rim (328).

75. The rigid filter according to any of embodiments 72-74, wherein the rigid filter (321) comprises two radially protruding flanges (326, 327), the flanges (326, 327) being provided for allowing a flexible filter to be fastened between the two flanges (326, 327), preferably the top modular filter part comprises the two flanges (326, 327).

76. The rigid filter according to any of embodiments 72-75, further comprising a flexible filter reversibly fastened to the rigid filter, wherein the flexible filter preferably comprises woven or nonwoven materials, such as fibers, netting or geotextile materials.

77. The gully according to any one of embodiments 66-71 or the filter according to any one of embodiments 72-76 wherein the enclosing wall of the filter is closed in a top part of the filter such that the filter has the dual function of filter and an odor lock, preferably wherein the filter is modular and the enclosing wall of the top modular part is closed.

78. The gully according to any one of embodiments 66-71 or the filter according to any one of embodiments 72-76 wherein the enclosing wall of the filter is perforated in a top part of the filter such that the filter has the dual function of filter and aerator, preferably wherein the filter is modular and the enclosing wall of the top modular part is perforated.

79. A plastic gully comprising a hollow body (103; 203) comprising:

• a top modular gully body part (103a, 203a) comprising an inlet (101; 201) for receiving a fluid to be drained, and an outlet (102; 202) for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid,
• at least one middle modular gully body part (103b, 103c, 203b, 203c), and
• a bottom modular gully body part (103d, 203d)

wherein the top modular gully part (103a, 203a) is stacked on the top of the at least one middle modular gully body part (103b, 203b), and the bottom of the at least one middle modular gully body parts (103c, 203c) is stacked on the bottom modular gully body part (103d, 203d).

80. The gully according to embodiment 79 wherein each modular gully part (103a, 203a, 103b, 103c, 203b, 203c, 103d, 203d) is connected to each adjacent modular gully part in a water-tight fashion, preferably using a seal.

81. The gully according to embodiment 79 or 80 wherein each modular gully part (103a, 203a, 103b, 103c, 203b, 203c, 103d, 203d) is connected to each adjacent modular gully part via a locking mechanism which provides resistance against disconnection of the modular gully parts in the longitudinal direction of the gully.

82. The gully according to any one of embodiments 79-81 wherein the gully comprises two or more identical middle modular gully body parts (103b, 103c, 203b, 203c).

83. The gully according to any one of embodiments 79-82 wherein the gully, preferably each modular body part of the gully body comprises an enclosing wall (105; 205) and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall (105; 205), said rib structure having first ribs (110; 210) and second ribs (109; 209), the first ribs (110; 210) extending circumferentially along the outer surface, and the second ribs (109; 209) extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs (110; 210).

84. The gully according to embodiment 83 wherein the rib structure comprises a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib (213a) which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib (213b) which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part,

wherein one of the first and second modular body part comprises a first connector part (117; 217) which is complementary to a second connector part (115; 215) comprised in the other of the first and second modular body parts,

wherein the first connector part (117; 217) is a receiving slot provided in the enclosing wall of said one of the first and second modular body parts, the receiving slot being formed by a lateral protrusion (114; 214) of the enclosing wall and configured to receive the second connector part (115; 215) of the other of said first and second modular body parts,

wherein the second connector (115; 215) part is a protrusion forming part of the enclosing wall and longitudinally extending from the outer surface of the other of said first and second modular body parts,

wherein preferably the first connector part (117; 217) is comprised in the first modular body part, and preferably the second connector part (115; 215) is comprised in the second modular body part.

85. The gully according to embodiment 84, wherein the gully comprises a seal (125; 225) deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall (105; 205), the bottom joint rib (213a) and the top joint rib (213b), wherein the bottom joint rib (213a) preferably comprises a bottom locking means (216a) complementary to a top locking means (216b) comprised in the top joint rib (213b) and the seal is preferably deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall, the bottom joint rib and the top joint rib.

86. The gully according to embodiment 85, wherein the first (117; 217) and second (115; 215) connector parts are located inwardly from the seal (125; 225).

87. The gully according to embodiment 85 or 86, wherein the bottom (216a) and top (216b) locking means are complementary hook-like structures, preferably circumferentially extending hook-like structures.

88. The gully according to any one of embodiments 84-87 wherein the receiving slot is formed by an outward lateral protrusion (114; 214) of the enclosing wall.

89. The gully according to any of embodiments 79-88, wherein the gully comprises a plurality of modular body parts (103a-103d; 203a-203d), and the gully further comprises a filter (121; 221) mounted to the hollow body (103; 203) for filtering the fluid before draining, the filter extending longitudinally inside the body (103; 203) and comprising a plurality of modular filter parts,
wherein the bottom of each modular filter part does not extend beyond the bottom of the respective modular body part in which the modular filter part is located.

Claims

1. A gully comprising a hollow body (103; 203) comprising:

- an inlet (101; 201) for receiving a fluid to be drained,

- an outlet (102; 202) for being connected to a drain pipe for draining the fluid, and

- an enclosing wall (105; 205) and a rib structure on an outer surface of the enclosing wall, said rib structure having first ribs (110; 210) and second ribs (109; 209), the first ribs (110; 210) extending circumferentially along the outer surface, and the second ribs (109; 209) extending longitudinally along the outer surface, thereby connecting at least part of the first ribs (110; 210),

characterized in that the rib structure comprises a pair of first ribs forming a cross configuration (111; 211) on the outer surface of the body (103; 203) in which the ribs of the first pair or the projections of the trajectories of the ribs of the first pair intersect.

2. The gully according to claim 1, wherein the body (103; 203) comprises a plurality of modular body parts (103a-103d; 203a-203d).

3. The gully according to claim 2, wherein each rib of said pair of first ribs circumferentially extends along two adjacent modular body parts of the plurality of modular body parts (103a-103d; 203a-203d).

4. The gully according to claim 2 or 3, wherein said cross configuration (111; 211) extends along two adjacent modular body parts of the plurality of modular body parts (103a-103d; 203a-203d).

5. The gully according to any of claims 2-4, wherein each modular body part comprises first ribs which each forms part of a different cross configuration, preferably each form part of a cross configuration (111; 211) extending along two adjacent modular parts.

6. The gully according to any of claims 1-5, wherein the inlet (101; 201) and the outlet (102; 202) are comprised in a top half of the body, preferably in the top modular body part (103a; 203a).

7. The gully according to claim 6, wherein the body (103; 203) comprises a portion in the top half of the body which tapers inwardly towards the inlet (101; 201), preferably wherein the inlet (101; 201) is a substantially horizontal opening in the top half of the body, preferably in the top modular body part (103a; 203a).

8. The gully according to any of claims 1-7, wherein the rib structure comprises a pair of joint ribs circumferentially extending between the ribs of said pair of first ribs.

9. The gully according to claim 8, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib (213a) which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib (213b) which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part,
wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part, and wherein preferably the pair of first ribs forming the cross configuration (111) intersect the pair of joint ribs.

10. The gully according to any of claims 1-9, wherein the outlet is located at a same circumferential location as a cross configuration.

11. The gully according to any of claims 2-10, wherein the outlet (102; 202) is located at a first circumferential location between a pair of first ribs which are separated by a first distance D1, wherein the first distance D1 is larger at the first circumferential location than at a second circumferential location adjacent to the first circumferential location.

12. The gully according to any of claims 1-11, wherein the gully further comprises an insert (121, 221, 333, ) selected from an odor lock and/or a filter mounted to the hollow body and extending longitudinally inside the body.

13. The gully according to any of claims 1-12, further comprising at least one fastening structure (333) provided at an inner surface of the insert, the at least one fastening structure configured to engage amphibian escape means (135) inside the gully.

14. The gully according to any of claims 2-13, comprising a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs between the ribs of said pair of first ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib (213a) which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib (213b) which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part,

wherein the bottom joint rib (213a) comprises a bottom locking means (216a) complementary to a top locking means (216b) comprised in the top joint rib (213b),

wherein the gully comprises a seal (125; 225) deposited in a space delimited by the enclosing wall (105; 205), the bottom joint rib (213a) and the top joint rib (213b).

15. The gully according to any of claims 2-14, comprising a pair of circumferentially extending joint ribs between the ribs of said pair of first ribs, wherein the pair of joint ribs comprises a bottom joint rib (213a) which is the bottom rib comprised in a first modular body part and a top joint rib (213b) which is the top rib comprised in a second modular body part, wherein the first and second modular body parts are adjacent body parts and the first modular body part is stacked on the second modular body part,

wherein one of the first and second modular body part comprises a bottom connector part (117; 217) which is complementary to a top connector part (115; 215) comprised in the other of the first and second modular body parts,

wherein the bottom connector part (117; 217) is a receiving slot provided in the enclosing wall (105; 205) of said one of the first and second modular body parts, the receiving slot being formed by a lateral protrusion (114, 214) of the enclosing wall and configured to receive the top connector part (115; 215) of the other of said first and second modular body parts,

wherein the top connector part (115; 215) is a protrusion of part of the enclosing wall extending from the top surface of the other of said first and second modular body parts.

Drawing