Patent ID: 6827103
Filing Date: 2004-12-07
Classification: E04D,F16L,Y10T

Abstract:
An automatic eaves trough downspout, comprising:a first conduit having a coupling socket; a second conduit having a hollow cylindrical coupling body which is adapted to fit in the socket to form a pivotal connection that enables the second conduit to move between a substantially vertical stored position parallel to the first conduit and a substantially horizontal discharge position, the cylindrical coupling body having opposed ends with hubs having axle receiving openings and a first torsion spring attachment position; a pair of pivot pins each having a head portion and an axle portion, the axle portion extending from the coupling socket into the axle receiving openings of the cylindrical coupling body, each of the pivot pins having a second torsion spring attachment position; at least one torsion spring having a first end and a second end and overlying one of the pivot pins, the first end of the at least one torsion spring being secured in the first torsion spring attachment position and the second end of the at least one torsion spring being secured in the second spring attachment position, such that rotation of the pivot pin in a first direction increases the tension of the at least one torsion spring and rotation of the pivot pin in a second direction decreases the tension of the at least one torsion spring, the torsion spring biasing the second conduit into the substantially vertical stored position; and a ratchet engagement between the head portion of the pivot pin and the socket of the first conduit, the ratchet engagement permitting rotational movement of the pivot pin in the first direction to increase spring tension and resisting rotational movement in the second direction.