METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CATCHING SILT

A silt and debris catching apparatus comprises a housing component and a catchment component. The housing component is adapted to fit within a valve box assembly at a depth below a freeze line. The housing component has a field-installable second handle. The catchment component is coupled to the housing component and includes a filter. The filter retains material that enters the valve box assembly.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The following generally relates to pipe systems. More specifically, the following relates to valve box assemblies of underground pipe systems. Still more specifically, the following relates to an apparatus that provides access protection by at least preventing materials from covering a valve located within valve box assemblies without intrusion into or changing the design of valves associated with valve box assemblies.

BACKGROUND

Miles of distribution pipes may carry water and gas from an origination location to several different destinations. Typically, control valves are placed at different intervals along the pipes and below the surface to control the flow of water or gas within the pipes. The surface under which this network runs may be fairly even (in a use case of streets) or may be varied (as in a use case through fields and other natural terrain). In the event of pipe breakage or normal pipe maintenance, it is often necessary to access the control valves to prevent the flow of water or gas into certain sections of pipe. These valves are placed in valve box assemblies that may include one or more valve body risers. The valve body risers are often tubular castings that extend from a ground surface (such as for example, a sidewalk, a street or a portion of ground) downwards to a pipe or pipe system or network. Valve box assemblies typically include a surface opening for access to the valve. The surface opening of a valve box is typically covered with a loosely fitted cover. When it is necessary to access and turn on or off a control valve, the cover may be removed and a valve wrench is inserted into the valve box. The valve wrench couples to the control valve and a user rotates the valve wrench thereby opening or closing the control valve. Access typically occurs for routine maintenance as well as for emergencies (such as pipe system malfunctions including line breaks).

Over time and especially in remote installations, the loosely fitted cover may become hidden by soil or debris, as well as soil or debris may obscure the control valve within the one or more valve body risers thereby creating difficulties in locating and operating the control valve. The loosely fitting cover may not be visible and/or the control valve within the valve body risers may be covered with soil or debris, requiring extra time, effort and tools to effect operation of the control valve. Special tools may be required to remove silt and debris from with one or more valve box assemblies. This process is time consuming and manually difficult. Thus, in emergency situations, such as for example if a pipe breaks, a delay in finding and/or obtaining access to the control valve may prove to be costly as water or gas may be unnecessarily wasted. In the case of pipe breakage, accessing the control valve may be critical and delays caused by inaccessible valves may drastically increase problems associated with fixing a pipe break. Further, systems that may filter debris that are located near a ground level are susceptible to freeze conditions (or thaw and freeze conditions) which may eliminate or retard desired functions. In other words, near-surface filtration systems are susceptible to natural conditions that may result in disastrous consequences.

Information related to control (for example, when the valve box assembly was last inspected or what pipes are in communication with a certain control valve) both for emergencies and for routine maintenance may be difficult to locate in some circumstances. In other circumstances, such as a road is being repaved in which loosely fitting covers are typically removed while the existing asphalt is removed, the pipe systems with control valves located under road surfaces may during this process, have substantial (and heavy) debris entering the valve box assembly thus covering control valves. This often may lead to extra work as well as possibly unnecessarily extra inspections of or in shutting off of valves—at times with unknown effects for the affected pipe systems and most any services downstream from the shutoff.

SUMMARY

In exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus is provided for maintaining valve accessibility in a valve box assembly. The apparatus has a housing component configured to pass through a first valve body riser and rest on an annular portion of a second valve body riser of the valve box assembly. The apparatus also has a catchment component comprising a top portion and a mesh portion. The mesh portion is adapted to retain material that enters the valve box assembly. Further, the top portion of catchment component is adapted to attach to the housing component; as the housing component is configured to slidably receive the top portion of the catchment component.

The embodiment may also have a housing component that is configured with a first handle defining a pair of slots spaced apart from one another. It is to be appreciated that the apparatus self-aligns as the apparatus passes through the first valve body riser. Upon being installed, the housing component is guided by a set of threads of the first valve body riser as the housing component passes through the first valve body riser to rest on the annular portion of the second valve body riser of the valve box assembly.

Embodiments of the disclosed innovation also include a method for configuring an apparatus for maintaining valve accessibility in a valve box assembly. The method includes locating a valve box assembly that has a first valve body riser, a second valve body riser and a valve box cover. After removing the valve box cover, the method includes placing a top portion of a catchment component of an apparatus into a slidably receiving portion of a housing component that is configured to provide a path through rigid members. The method includes dropping the apparatus into the valve box assembly and reengaging the valve box cover with the first valve body riser.

It is to be appreciated that embodiments of the method include a housing component that is configured with a first handle defining a pair of slots spaced apart from one another; and a catchment component that is configured to self-align as the apparatus passes through the first valve body riser. Other embodiments may include that during the dropping, the housing component may be guided by a set of threads of the first valve body riser as the housing component passes through the first valve body riser to rest on an annular portion of the second valve body riser of the valve box assembly.

In exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, an apparatus is provided for maintaining valve accessibility in a valve box assembly. The apparatus has a housing component that is configured to pass through a first valve body riser and rest on an annular portion of a second valve body riser of a valve box assembly. The housing component is also configured to have a first handle. The apparatus also has a catchment component that has a top portion and a mesh portion. The mesh portion is adapted to retain material that enters the valve box assembly. Further, the catchment component self-aligns as the apparatus passes through the first valve body riser and the housing component is guided by a set of threads of the first valve body riser.

In other embodiments, an apparatus may also have a field-installable adjustable second handle that is configured to attach to the housing component. It is to be appreciated that a housing component of the apparatus rests below a freeze line of the valve box assembly. For embodiments of the installed apparatus, a field-installable adjustable second handle of the housing component comprises a portion that rests at or near a valve box cover of the valve box assembly. A housing component can be configured to have an outer wall with a diameter less than an inner diameter of the set of threads of the first valve body riser and greater than an inner diameter of the second valve body riser. Further, a housing component can be configured to provide a path through rigid members to slidably receive the top portion of the catchment component, while the top portion of the catchment component is configured to be flexible and compresses while passing through the rigid members and rebounds to the top portion prior size after passing through.

Embodiments of the disclosed innovation also include a method for configuring an apparatus for maintaining valve accessibility in a valve box assembly. The method includes locating a valve box assembly that has a first valve body riser, a second valve body riser and a valve box cover. After removing the valve box cover, the method includes placing a top portion of a catchment component of an apparatus into a slidably receiving portion of the housing component that is configured to provide a path through rigid members. In embodiments, the housing component has a first handle.

In embodiments, a step includes dropping the apparatus into the valve box assembly. It is to be appreciated that the catchment component is configured to self-align with the dropping the apparatus into the valve box assembly as the apparatus passes through the first valve body riser and a housing component is guided by a set of threads of the first valve body riser. Finally, the method includes reengaging the valve box cover. It is to be further appreciated that the dropping comprises a housing component of the apparatus resting on an annular portion of the second valve body riser and that the depth of the housing component resting on the annular portion is below a freeze line for the valve box assembly.

Other embodiments include a step of attaching a field-installable adjustable second handle to the housing component prior to dropping the apparatus into the valve box assembly. The attaching of the field-installable adjustable second handle includes selecting an amount of the field installable second handle and inserting the field installable second handle into the housing component to obtain a depth of a top loop of the field installable second handle at or near a valve box cover of the valve box assembly with the housing component resting on the annular portion.

Exemplary embodiments disclosed include the above methods with the top portion of the catchment component being configured to be flexible and compressing while passing through the rigid members and rebounding to the flexible top portion prior size after passing through.

Still other exemplary embodiments include a system for maintaining valve accessibility in a valve box assembly. The system includes a valve box assembly that comprises a first valve box riser, a second valve box riser and a valve box cover; a housing component of an apparatus that is configured to pass through the first valve body riser and rest on an annular portion of the second valve body riser (in some embodiments, the housing component configured to have a first handle integrally formed from a single piece of rigid polymer with a body of the housing component); a catchment component that has a top portion and a mesh portion (the mesh portion, adapted to retain material that enters the valve box assembly); and a field-installable adjustable second handle that is configured to attach to the housing component.

During an installation, the catchment component self-aligns as the apparatus passes through the first valve body riser and the housing component is guided by a set of threads of the first valve body riser. A top portion of the housing component is configured to provide a path through rigid members to slidably receive the top portion of the catchment portion and the mesh portion of the catchment component is configured to be flexible and compresses while passing through the rigid members and rebounds to the flexible top portion prior size after passing through. It is to be appreciated that for an installed apparatus, the housing component rests below a freeze line of the valve box assembly and the field-installable adjustable second handle of the housing component comprises a portion that rests at or near a valve box cover of the valve box assembly.

In one aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a silt and debris catching apparatus comprising: a housing component adapted to fit within a valve box assembly; and a catchment component comprising a filter, wherein the catchment component is coupled to the housing component and wherein the filter is adapted to retain material that enters the valve box assembly.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a method for catching material that enters a valve box assembly comprising: placing a material catching apparatus within the valve box assembly; and selectively retaining material that enters the valve box assembly with the material catching apparatus.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a method for locating a valve box assembly comprising: locating a radio-frequency identification whip within the valve box assembly.

Currently, it may be difficult to find a valve box assembly that is below the surface and covered with debris. At times, it may be crucial to quickly find a valve box assembly. Furthermore, information relating to the valve box assembly to the valve box may not be readily available. Thus, there is a continuous need for a system that aids in quickly locating a valve box assembly and determines information relating to a valve box assembly.

In one aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a valve box assembly. The valve box assembly may include a pipe within the valve box assembly. The valve box assembly may further include a valve coupled to the pipe. The valve box assembly may further include a radio-frequency identification tag within the valve box assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide a silt and debris catching apparatus within the valve box assembly, wherein the silt and debris catching apparatus includes a housing component and a filtration component adapted to retain material that enters the valve box assembly, and wherein the radio-frequency identification tag is within the housing component. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide wherein the silt and debris catching apparatus includes a handle with a channel and wherein the radio-frequency identification tag is within the channel. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide wherein the silt and debris catching apparatus includes a removable cover that covers the channel. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide wherein the silt and debris catching apparatus includes a first end and a second end below the first end and wherein the cover defines the first end.

This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide wherein the radio-frequency identification tag includes first data associated with the silt and debris catching apparatus or the valve box assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide wherein the first data includes a serial number that identifies the silt and debris catching apparatus or the valve box assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide wherein the radio-frequency identification tag includes a read-only memory that stores the first data. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide wherein the serial number provides access to a database that includes second data associated with the silt and debris catching apparatus. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide wherein the second data includes at least one of: a geographic location of the silt and debris catching apparatus or the valve box assembly, a pipe diagram, a type of fluid that flows through the valve within the valve box assembly, what the valve within the valve box assembly effects, a date and a time that the valve box assembly was accessed, a date and a time that the silt and debris catching apparatus was inspected, a date and a time that the silt and debris catching apparatus was emptied, a status of the valve within the valve box assembly, and a fluid flow state.

This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide wherein the radio-frequency identification tag includes a read/write memory that stores the first data associated with the silt and debris catching apparatus or the valve box assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide wherein the first data includes editable data associated with the silt and debris catching apparatus or the valve box assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide wherein the first data includes at least one of: a date and a time that the valve box assembly was accessed, a date and a time that the silt and debris catching apparatus was inspected, a date and a time that the silt and debris catching apparatus was emptied, and a status of the valve within the valve box assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide wherein the serial number provides access to a database that includes second data associated with the silt and debris catching apparatus. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide wherein the radio-frequency identification tag is one of an active radio-frequency identification tag or a passive radio-frequency identification tag.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a pipe system. The pipe system may include a first valve box assembly. The pipe system may further include a first radio-frequency identification tag within the first valve box assembly. The pipe system may further include a radio-frequency identification tag reader adapted to emit an electromagnetic signal and further adapted to receive first data from the first radio-frequency identification tag in response to the electromagnetic signal. The pipe system may further include a computing device adapted to read or edit the first data. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide a second valve box assembly; and a second radio-frequency identification tag, wherein the radio-frequency identification tag reader is further adapted to receive second data from the second radio-frequency identification tag in response to the electromagnetic signal, and wherein the computing device is further adapted to read or edit the second data. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide wherein the radio-frequency identification tag reader includes the computing device.

In yet another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a method for locating a valve box assembly. The method may include emitting a first electromagnetic signal from a radio-frequency identification tag reader. The method may further include receiving, with the identification tag reader, a first response to the first electromagnetic signal from a radio-frequency identification tag within a valve box assembly. The method may further include locating the valve box assembly based on the first response. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide wherein the first response includes a geographic location of the valve box assembly or a silt and debris catching apparatus within the valve box assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide wherein the radio-frequency identification reader is stationary. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may provide moving to a first location, receiving the first response at the first location with the radio-frequency identification tag reader; reducing a reading range of the radio-frequency identification reader; emitting a second electromagnetic signal form the radio-frequency identification reader; moving to a second location; receiving a second response at the second location with the radio-frequency identification tag reader; and locating the valve box assembly based on the second response.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Initially, it is noted that the present disclosure is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/733,775, (the '775 Disclosure) filed on Jan. 3, 2020, the entirety of which is incorporated herein as if fully rewritten. Since this is a continuation-in-part of the '775 disclosure, some similar nomenclature may be used in descriptions of certain embodiments and there may be some instances in which nomenclature may differ. It is to be appreciated that clarity is provided by the context in which the nomenclature appears.

It is to be appreciated that another advantage of the disclosed innovation is that in other circumstances, such as a road is being repaved in which loosely fitting covers are typically removed while the existing asphalt is scraped, pipe systems with control valves located under the road surfaces may have substantial (and heavy) debris entering the valve box assembly thus covering control valves. Averting traditional issues such as extra work as well as possibly unnecessarily extra inspections of or in shutting off of valves—at times with unknown effects for the affected pipe systems and most any services downstream from the shutoff may come from the ability to deter this as well as recognize information related to the disclosure herein.

It is to be further appreciated that advantages of the disclosed innovation provide for embodiments that allow for depth of an apparatus to be placed below ground freeze lines (at depths at which the typical risk of freezing is abated). In this manner, averting thaw and freeze cycles that may lead to flooding can be averted.

FIGS.1-13depict one or more embodiments of a silt and debris catching apparatus (for example apparatus100and apparatus700), that interfaces with one or more embodiments of a valve box assembly as may be known in the art (for example, and without limitation, valve box assemblies102,602and/or702). When a silt and debris catching apparatus interfaces with a valve box assembly, the silt and debris catching apparatus may retain material that enters the valve box assembly102, while allowing water to continue through the apparatus and be dispersed below. Water is not captured, nor is it so close to a surface so as to be subject to a freeze condition in most all expected applications of the piping systems. It has been discovered that advantages of the present innovation include embodiments that are at the same time easy to install, require no changes to any valves to be protected, do not require any reworking of valve box assemblies (such as for example to reconfigure basins), and provide a depth of installation that enables an apparatus to operate below a ground freeze line. As is known in the art, a ground freeze line is a depth below ground level that freezing concerns are diminished. Surface or too-near-surface filter systems are susceptible to freezing and losing functionality, especially in particular uses such as fields or streets in which underground piping systems may traverse. Additionally, it has been discovered that in certain embodiments, the presence of an easy and inexpensive field-installable second handle provides benefits of adjustability of a height of a handle such that a field installable second handle may be located near a surface level regardless of most depth below surface level of the position of the catching apparatus. In certain use cases, such as in fields or in remote terrain, the innovation of a second field installable handle provides safety to workers who may need to access the valve protected under the apparatus as various creatures, such as for example snakes, may inhabit the space in a valve box assembly.

Turning toFIG.2, an assembled perspective view of a silt and debris catching apparatus that is in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. As depicted inFIG.2, an embodiment of a silt and debris catching apparatus100comprises a housing component201, a catchment component204, a first end206, a second end208opposite the first end206, and a longitudinal axis210between the first end206and the second end208. Some portions of the silt and debris catching apparatus100will be described relative to the longitudinal axis210and may be used in conjunction with the terms circumferential, or radial, relative to the longitudinal axis210. It is to be appreciated that a similar description applies to an embodiment of a silt and debris catching apparatus700(as shown inFIG.7AandFIG.13). As described herein, silt and debris catching apparatus700comprises a housing component701(details of housing component701are shown inFIG.8throughFIG.10), a catchment component204, a first end705, a second end707opposite the first end705, and a longitudinal axis710between the first end705and the second end707. Some portions of the silt and debris catching apparatus700will be described relative to the longitudinal axis710and may be used in conjunction with the terms circumferential, or radial, relative to the longitudinal axis710.

As further depicted inFIG.2, an embodiment of housing component201may include a first outer wall212that is generally parallel to longitudinal axis210. First outer wall212is a radial outermost portion of the silt and debris catching apparatus100. As such, the silt and debris catching apparatus100has a diameter214measured between opposing first outer walls212through longitudinal axis210. Housing component201further comprises a second outer wall216. Second outer wall216extends longitudinally to a lower edge218of housing component201. Second outer wall216also extends circumferentially to and generally parallel to longitudinal axis210.

In embodiments, features of an attachment portion of an apparatus (such as for example, apparatus100or apparatus700) may provide for a side-entry/exit snap fit or slide path or be adapted to slidably receive an attachment component (for example, attachment component470as described herein). This aspect of the innovation may provide additional in-field ease and time saving as installation (and subsequent removal and emptying of an accumulation) is made simpler with no moving parts or other attachment mechanisms to be concerned about. A slide path made be configured as follows. A first inlet wall220and a second inlet wall222extend longitudinally from a lower edge218to an upper edge224. First inlet wall220, second inlet wall222, and upper edge224define an inlet226adapted to receive the catchment component204. Inlet226has an outer width228measured between first inlet wall220and second inlet wall222through longitudinal axis210. A first rounded wall230and a second rounded wall232extends radially inward from first inlet wall220and second inlet wall222respectively. Inlet226has an inner width234measured between first rounded wall230and second rounded wall232. Inner width234is slightly less than outer width228. In embodiments, housing component201further comprises a rounded surface236, as will be discussed in further detail below. in some embodiments, when the silt and debris catching apparatus100is installed in the valve box assembly102, the rounded surface236rests upon the thread106(also referred to as a set of threads) of a valve body riser103.

Turning now toFIG.3, an exploded perspective view of the silt and debris catching apparatus depicted inFIG.2is shown. It is to be appreciated that in embodiments, housing component201may comprise a first end302and a second end304opposite the first end302. Longitudinal axis210extends between first end302and second end304. In some embodiments, housing component201may comprise a thread follower or helix surface306. Helix surface306is defined by a first inner edge308, a first outer edge310, a first terminal end312and a second terminal end314. Helix surface306extends around and is generally perpendicular to longitudinal axis210. In an embodiment, helix surface306may extend approximately 360° around longitudinal axis210. It is envisioned that in other embodiments helix surface306may extend more or less than 360° around longitudinal axis210. It is to be appreciated that in several embodiments, a portion of a top surface, such as the top of helix surface306, may slope radially inward towards the longitudinal axis210. The slope of the top portion of helix surface306thus directs material (i.e., water, silt, debris, etc.) towards a center of the silt and debris catching apparatus100along directional arrow A. It is to be appreciated that in other embodiments, a similar slope may be present in other types of surfaces (such as for example, top surface748, as will be discussed herein below). As will be discussed in further detail below, the helix surface306has a pitch316that corresponds to a pitch104of a thread106of one or more valve body risers103of embodiments of valve box assembly102, as seen inFIG.1.

Housing component201may further be configured to have a first wall318that defines the first terminal end312of helix surface306. First wall318extends radially inward from first outer edge310to a first handle320. In embodiments, first handle320includes a first side322and a second side324opposite the first side322that is structurally identical to first side322. Accordingly, for brevity, similar reference numerals on first side322of first handle320refer to similar elements on the second side324and vice versa. It is to be appreciated that other first handle configurations are contemplated and may include other configurations as discussed herein (and for example as shown inFIG.7AthroughFIG.13). It is to be further appreciated that transitions of a first handle to the body of housing component201(or701) may vary without deviating from the innovative aspects presented herein. For example, turning briefly toFIG.8, transition754provides a radially expanding transition from each side of first handle320to the body of housing component701, with blending from first handle320to first inner wall756and inner sloped surface758as best shown inFIG.9.

In a particular detailed embodiment of housing component201, as depicted inFIG.3A, a first vertical terminal end326of first wall318extends longitudinally from a first surface328to a first edge330of a second surface332. First edge330extends radially inward from first outer edge310of helix surface306to a curved portion334of a second wall336of first handle320. A second vertical terminal end338of first wall318extends longitudinally from first edge330to a third surface340. A first horizontal terminal end342of first wall318extends radially outward from second wall336to a third wall344. A third vertical terminal end346of first wall318extends longitudinally from third surface340to a first curved wall348. A curved end350of first wall318convexly curves radially outward from third vertical terminal end346to a second horizontal terminal end352. Second horizontal terminal end352extends radially outward from a first curved wall348to first outer edge310of helix surface306.

Second wall336and third wall344extend longitudinally and generally parallel to longitudinal axis210. First surface328, second surface332, and third surface340each extend radially and generally perpendicular to longitudinal axis210.

A fourth surface354is defined by a second outer edge356and a second inner edge358. Fourth surface354extends generally perpendicular from first wall318and convexly curves approximately 90° to third wall344. A fourth wall360extends longitudinally from second inner edge358to first surface328. It is to be appreciated that first surface328extends radially inward from fourth wall360to first curved wall348. First surface328also extends between fourth wall360and first wall318. First curved wall348also convexly curves radially inward and downward from first surface328to third wall344. Third wall344extends longitudinally from first curved wall348to third surface340.

Continuing, third surface340extends radially inward from third wall344to second wall336. Third surface340also extends between first wall318and second outer edge356. A surface (not shown) that is structurally identical to third surface340exists on an opposing side of first wall318. In embodiments, third surface340may also include an annular edge362. Annular edge362defines a removable knockout plug364. Knockout plug364may be a molded member of housing component201that may be removed by applying a force parallel to the longitudinal axis210. When knockout plug364has been removed, annular edge362defines a first opening of a bore. The bore extends from the first opening to a second opening on a surface that opposes third surface340. It is to be appreciated that the bore is adapted to accommodate a tracer wire that is coupled to a pipe located at a bottom of a valve box assembly. The tracer wire may extend from the pipe through the bore and to the surface where it is accessible to a user. In other embodiments such as housing component701, as best seen inFIG.8, annular edge763may be configured to be a singular unbroken ridge at a generally planar surface. It is to be appreciated that knockout plug364may be molded separately or be supplied in a replacement capacity and may be configured to suit various embodiments to seal the bore. In other words, annular edge362defines at least one selected off-center inner diameter, with a centerline parallel to a centerline of the housing component (that is, longitudinal axis210/710) and that defines a bore operable to support a tracer wire passing through the housing component.

Continuing with a detailed embodiment of housing component201, second wall336of first handle320extends longitudinally from third surface340. Curved portion334of second wall336convexly curves radially inward to a second curved wall366. Second curved wall366extends longitudinally from the curved portion334of second wall336to a curved edge368. A fifth surface370extends from curved edge368to an edge372. A fifth wall374extends longitudinally from edge372to a sixth surface376. A locking notch378extends longitudinally from sixth surface376and extends radially inward from fifth wall374. As will be discussed in further detail below, locking notch378receives a complementary portion of a cover380(as can be seen inFIG.3) thereby securing cover380to housing component201. In other embodiments, for example as with housing component701and as best seen inFIG.8andFIG.9, radially outward of the center of wall374may be opposing pairs for walls794A and794B parallel to wall374, as well as794C and794D perpendicular to wall374that define a pair of slots794. As discussed herein below, slots794may provide an interface for a field installable second handle796, as best seen inFIG.12. In other words, housing component701has first handle320defining a pair of slots794spaced apart from one another. Field installable second handle796may generally be configured to be adjustable with a pliable continuous portion796A and a pliable intermittent portion796B. It is to be appreciated that insertion of field installable second handle796through slot794is easily completed in the field, with adjustability provided by an amount of field installable second handle796fitted through one or both slots794so as to provide field installable second handle with a depth D2from ground level and above the housing component701that rests at a depth D3. It is to be appreciated that depth D3may and likely will vary over miles of a piping system, depth D2can be controlled to provide ease of removal. Ease of installation is as simple as dropping the disclosed apparatus (for example, apparatus100or apparatus700) into an open valve box assembly. It is to be appreciated that field installable second handle796may act as a ratchet (or akin to a zip tie). In the embodiment pictured, intermittent portion796B is pliable so as to be easily pushed through slot794but reverts to its slightly curved shape providing strength against being pulled out. It is contemplated that other configurations (not shown) can serve this purpose (for example, intermittent portion796B can be configured to have a leading slope and a sharper retreat towards continuous portion796A). It is to be appreciated that field installable second handle796will be configured to be able to withdraw an apparatus (100,700) when the apparatus is full of silt or debris or both. In embodiments, field installable second handle796may be configured to be able to withstand pull force upwards for emptying the apparatus with debris piled up over the apparatus in the interior of valve box riser103without detaching. As best seen inFIG.13, D2provides a distance that can be easily retrievable by hand at or near surface level while D3safely remains below a freeze line. It is also to be appreciated that cover380may be configured to snap fit over the height of first handle320(as discussed herein, and also shown inFIG.11).

Continuing with a detailed embodiment of housing component201, sixth surface376extends radially inward from fifth wall374to a curved edge382. Sixth surface376further extends between a first outer rounded edge384and a second outer rounded edge386. Curved edge382curves downward and radially inward from sixth surface376to a seventh wall388. As depicted inFIG.5(which provides an isometric section view), seventh wall388extends longitudinally from curved edge382to an inner surface390. Inner surface390extends radially inward from seventh wall388to an opposing seventh wall388. Returning toFIG.3A, curved edge382and seventh wall388extend between a first inner wall392and a second inner wall394. First inner wall392extends longitudinally from inner surface390to an edge396of a seventh surface398. Second inner wall394extends longitudinally from inner surface390to an edge400of an eighth surface402.

Opposing curved edges382, opposing seventh walls388, inner surface390, first inner wall392and second inner wall394define a channel404. In other embodiments, it is to be appreciated that channel404may be defined by different but similar features (as seen, for example inFIG.12). Channel404may be appropriately dimensioned so as to accommodate a radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip or tag406(as seen inFIG.3) within channel404. RFID chip406may be placed within channel404and secured within channel404by cover380. It is to be appreciated that RFID chip406may emit a unique radio frequency that may be read by an RFID chip reader (not shown) when the reader is within a predetermined range of RFID chip406. As such, when housing component201and RFID chip406are within a valve box assembly, such as valve box assembly102,602,702or the like, a user may locate the respective valve box assembly with the RFID chip reader when the RFID chip reader is within range of RFID chip406. Furthermore, the RFID chip reader may store data associated with RFID chip406(i.e., when the valve was last accessed, how often the valve has been accessed within a given time period, etc.), as discussed herein.

In another embodiment, the RFID tag406may be located elsewhere within a respective valve box assembly (i.e., on a surface of the valve box assembly, affixed on an underside of a valve box cover604(as discussed herein below), on a valve within a valve box assembly or on a pipe within a valve box assembly).

Briefly turning toFIG.4, the RFID tag406includes an antenna2, a data processing unit4in communication with the antenna2, and a memory6in communication with the data processing unit4. In one embodiment, the data processing unit4may be an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) and the memory6may include a non-transitory computer readable storage medium that stores data relating to the silt and debris catching apparatus100or the valve box assembly102. It is to be appreciated that while the embodiment discussed uses the terminology of valve box assembly102, other valve box assemblies, such as without limitation valve box assembly602of valve box assembly are as applicable to the disclosed innovative concepts.

The antenna2receives an electromagnetic signal or an electromagnetic wave emitted from an antenna10of an RFID reader or RFID chip reader8. When in range of the emitted electromagnetic signal, the antenna2of the RFID tag406receives the electromagnetic signal. In response to receiving the electromagnetic signal from the RFID reader8, the antenna2of the RFID tag406sends a signal to the data processing unit4. In response to receiving the signal from the antenna2of the RFID tag406, the data processing unit4extracts data from the memory6and instructs antenna2of the RFID tag406to emit a radio wave that includes the data. The RFID reader8may receive the data and may then transmit the data to a computing device12with RFID computer software14. The RFID computer software14may include computer-executable instructions stored on a non-transitory computer readable storage medium of the computing device12and may be executable by a microprocessor of the computing device12. The RFID computer software14may allow a user to read and/or modify the received data. The computing device12may have local network access or internet access. In one embodiment, the RFID reader8may include the computing device12. In another embodiment, the RFID computer software14may be stored on a different computing device12located in a different location. In this embodiment, the RFID reader8may transmit the data from the RFID tag406to the computing device12with the RFID computer software14via a wired or wireless connection.

In one embodiment, the RFID tag406is a passive RFID tag, wherein the RFID tag406does not include a power source. In this embodiment, the RFID tag406uses energy from the electromagnetic signal transmitted by the RFID reader8to power the RFID tag406in order to emit the radio wave with the data stored in the RFID tag406. In another embodiment the RFID tag406is an active RFID tag, wherein the RFID tag406includes a power source. In this embodiment, a battery may power the RFID tag406in order to emit the radio wave with the data stored in the RFID tag406.

In one embodiment, the RFID reader8may be a handheld device. In this embodiment, a user may carry the RFID reader8while the reader is in a scanning mode. In scanning mode, the RFID reader8has a reading range. The reading range corresponds to a distance away from the RFID reader8that the electromagnetic wave travels. When the RFID tag406is within the reading range, the antenna2of the RFID tag406may receive the electromagnetic wave thereby allowing the RFID tag406to respond. This process may aid a user in locating the RFID tag406and therefore locate a silt and debris catching apparatus100or a valve box assembly102. The RFID tag406emits a unique radio-frequency that may be read by an RFID chip reader8. The RFID chip reader8may read the frequency when the RFID chip reader8is within a range of the RFID tag406. As such, when the housing component201and the RFID tag406are within the valve box assembly102, a user may locate the valve box assembly102by determining an RFID chip reader8is within range of the RFID tag406.

For example, the RFID reader8may include computer software with computer-executable instructions stored on a non-transitory computer readable storage medium that may be executable by a microprocessor of the RFID reader8that enables a user to increase or decrease a range of the RFID reader8by increasing or decreasing a power output to the antenna10of the RFID reader8. In this example, a user may walk with the RFID reader8in scanning mode until an RFID tag406responds to the emitted signal. The user may then reduce the reading range of the RFID reader8until the RFID tag406no longer responds to the emitted signal. The user may again walk with the RFID reader8in scanning mode until the RFID tag406again responds to the emitted signal. The user may repeat these steps until a silt and debris catching apparatus100or a valve box assembly102is located.

In another embodiment, the RFID reader8may be fixed on a mounting device. In one instance, the RFID reader8may continuously emit the electromagnetic signal and one or more RFID tags406within the reading range of the RFID reader8may continuously respond to the emitted electromagnetic signal. In another instance, the RFID reader8may periodically emit the electromagnetic signal and one or more RFID tags406within the reading range may respond to the emitted electromagnetic signal.

In one embodiment, the RFID tag406may be a read-only RFID tag. In this embodiment, the memory6of the RFID tag406is a read-only memory. In this embodiment the data in the memory6is written to the memory6and cannot be later modified.

In one instance, the data in the read-only memory6of the RFID tag406includes a serial number. The serial number identifies the silt and debris catching apparatus100or the valve box assembly102. When read by the RFID computer software14, the serial number may provide the RFID computer software14access to a database16stored in a non-transitory computer readable storage medium. The database16may be locally stored on the same computing device12that has the RFID computer software14or may be remotely stored on different device that may be accessed by the computing device12with the RFID computer software14over a local network connection or an internet connection.

The database16may include editable and/or static data relating to the slit and debris catching apparatus100or the valve box assembly102. For instance, the data in the database16may include a date and/or a time the valve box assembly102was accessed, a date and/or a time that the silt and debris catching apparatus100was inspected, a date and/or a time that the silt and debris catching apparatus100was emptied, a geographic location of the silt and debris catching apparatus100and/or the valve box assembly102including global positioning system (GPS) coordinates, a status of a valve within the valve box assembly102(i.e., open or closed), a pipe diagram showing a valve and a pipe within the valve box assembly102and one or more other related valves (i.e., showing the layout of other valve box assemblies, other valves, and other pipes in communication with the valve box assembly), a fluid flow state (i.e., if fluid is flowing through a valve within the valve box assembly102or not), a type of fluid that flows through a valve within the valve box assembly102(i.e., gas or water), what a valve within the valve box assembly102effects (i.e., what a valve turns on or off), and other data associated with the silt and debris catching apparatus100and the valve box assembly102.

In this instance, wherein the serial number provides access to a database16with editable data, a user may access the editable data with the serial number via the RFID computer software14and edit the editable data based on a corresponding event. For example, a user may access a valve box assembly102in order to inspect a silt and debris catching apparatus100. Upon inspection, a user may find that the silt and debris catching apparatus100retains an amount of material. The user may then remove the silt and debris catching apparatus100from the valve box assembly102and empty the silt and debris catching apparatus100. A user may then use an RFID reader8to obtain a serial number associated with the recently emptied silt and debris catching apparatus100or the recently accessed valve box assembly102and used the obtained serial number to access a database16with RFID computer software14. The user may then update a date and time the valve box was accessed and a date and time the silt and debris catching apparatus was emptied with the current date and time.

In this instance, wherein the data in the read-only memory6includes static data relating to the silt and debris catching apparatus100or to the valve box assembly102, a user may read the static data stored in the read-only memory via the RFID computer software14. For example, a user may locate a valve box assembly102containing a silt and debris catching apparatus100that includes the RFID tag406. When the RFID tag406is within reading range of the RFID reader8, the user may place the RFID reader8into scanning mode. Since the RFID reader8is within range of the RFID tag406, the RFID reader8may receive the static data in the read-only memory6from the RFID tag406. In this instance, the RFID reader8may include the RFID computer software14. As such, the RFID reader8may display the static data (i.e., a type of fluid that flows through a valve within the located valve box assembly102).

In another embodiment, the RFID tag406may be a read/write RFID tag. In this embodiment, the memory6of the RFID tag406is a read/write memory. In this embodiment the data in the memory6is written to the memory6and can be later modified.

In this embodiment, the data in the read/write memory6may include static data and editable data. For instance, the data in the read/write memory6may include a date and/or a time the valve box assembly102was accessed, a date and/or a time that the silt and debris catching apparatus100was inspected, a date and/or a time that the silt and debris catching apparatus100was emptied, a geographic location of the silt and debris catching apparatus100and/or the valve box assembly102including global positioning system (GPS) coordinates, a status of a valve within the valve box assembly102(i.e., open or closed), a pipe diagram showing a valve and a pipe within the valve box assembly102and one or more other related valves (i.e., showing the layout of other valve box assemblies102, other valves, and other pipes in communication with the valve box assembly102), a fluid flow state (i.e., if fluid is flowing through a valve within the valve box assembly102or not), a type of fluid that flows through a valve within the valve box assembly102(i.e., gas or water), what a valve within the valve box assembly102effects (i.e., what a valve turns on or off), and other data associated with the silt and debris catching apparatus100and the valve box assembly102.

In one example, a user may desire to edit data in read/write of an RFID tag406that is within range of an RFID reader8. In this example, the user may use a computing device12that is wirelessly connected to the RFID reader8and the RFID reader8may be stationary and fixed on a mounting device. The user may use the computing device12to direct the RFID reader8to emit a first electromagnetic signal. The RFID tag406may receive the first electromagnetic signal and may respond with the editable data stored in the read/write memory6of the RFID tag406. The user may then use RFID computer software14on the computing device12to edit the editable data and direct the RFID reader8to emit a second electromagnetic signal to the RFID tag406. The second electromagnetic signal may contain the newly edited data and instructions to save the newly edited data in the read/write memory6of the RFID tag406. In this example, a user may remotely shut off a valve located within a valve box assembly102within a RFID tag406that includes editable data including a valve status. In order to reflect the status change of the valve, the user may edit the data to reflect that the valve has been shut off and store this status change in the read/write memory6of the RFID tag406.

In one embodiment, a change in the data stored in the memory6of the RFID tag406or in the database16accessible with the serial number, may cause the RFID computer software14to automatically edit other data in the memory6or the database16.

For example, a first valve box assembly102(with a valve connected to a pipe within the valve box assembly102) may be part of an irrigation system on a farm. The irrigation system may include several other valve box assembles102(with several other valves connected to several other pipes within the several other valve box assemblies102). A user may manually close the valve within the valve box assembly102thereby cutting off a water supply to other parts of the irrigation system. As a result, water may not be flowing through a second valve box assembly102located downstream from the first valve box assembly102. In order to reflect this change in the RFID tag406of the first valve box assembly102, the user may use the RFID computer software14to change a valve status stored in the database16or stored in the memory6of the RFID tag406from “on” to “off” for the corresponding valve within the valve box assembly102. In response to this change, the RFID computer software14may automatically change the valve fluid flow state from “flow” to “no flow” as shutting off the upstream valve prevents water from flowing downstream to the second valve box assembly102. This change may be made in the memory6of the RFID tag406or in the database16.

Furthermore, in one embodiment, the RFID tag406may be waterproof. In this embodiment, the RFID tag406may continue to operate when water enters the valve box assembly102and contacts the RFID tag406. In embodiments, RFID tag406may be coupled with a sensor407(not shown). Sensor407may be configured to determine a state of the apparatus. Contemplated states include sensing whether a catchment component is full or torn. Sensing whether a catchment component is full may be by manner of weight or material reaching a certain volume. Sensing whether a catchment component is torn may be by manner of lack of deceleration of material within a certain zone.

Returning to the detailed embodiment of housing component201and with reference toFIG.3A, second wall336further extends generally perpendicular from first wall318to a first rounded corner408and a second rounded corner410. First rounded corner408convexly curves approximately 90° about longitudinal axis210to a sixth wall412and second rounded corner410convexly curves approximately 90° about longitudinal axis210to an opposing wall (not shown). The opposing wall is structurally identical to sixth wall412. Sixth wall412extends longitudinally between first outer rounded edge384and another edge414. Sixth wall412further extends between opposing first rounded corners408and the opposing wall extends between opposing second rounded corners410.

As depicted inFIG.3A, in embodiments, opposing second walls336, opposing first rounded corners408and opposing second rounded corners410, and opposing sixth walls412, define an outer surface416of first handle320. It is to be appreciated that one or more of these features may define other configurations of a first handle in other embodiments. In embodiments, a length418of first handle320may be measured between opposing fifth walls374through the longitudinal axis210. In some other embodiments, length418may define a portion of first handle320in that other features may be located in relation to length418. In embodiments, length418may signify transition from first handle320to (and into) housing component201. It is to be appreciated that these transitions may be configured in a number of ways, such as inFIG.8, as discussed herein in relation to the embodiment of housing component701. It is to be appreciated that descriptions of first handle320between walls374may be similar across various embodiments including a width420of first handle320that is measured between sixth wall412and the opposing wall through the longitudinal axis210. A height422of first handle320may be measured between a top of first outer rounded edge384and a bottom of edge414and parallel to the longitudinal axis210(as seen inFIG.3A).

With continued reference toFIG.3, cover380may comprise a first horizontal end424, a second horizontal end426opposite the first horizontal end424, a first vertical end428, and a second vertical end430opposite the first vertical end428. Cover380further comprises a first surface432. First surface432has a length434measured between first horizontal end424and second horizontal end426through a longitudinal axis, for example, longitudinal axis210. It is to be appreciated that length434is generally complementary to length418of first handle320. Cover380further comprises a second surface436that opposes first surface432. Additionally, a first inner surface438and a second inner surface440extend longitudinally from second surface436. Cover380has a width442measured between first inner surface438and second inner surface440. Width442is generally complementary to width420of first handle320. In embodiments, the surface may comprise a notch receiving component (not shown) that is generally complementary to and adapted to receive locking notch378. Cover380further comprises a first outer surface444that opposes first inner surface438. First outer surface444extends longitudinally from first surface432to second vertical end430. First outer surface444has a height446measured between first vertical end428and second vertical end430. It is to be appreciated that height446is generally complementary to height422of first handle320in that in embodiments, cover380may provide a snap fit to first handle320as height422fits within height446. In other words, when a downward force is applied along the directional arrow B such that cover380is placed over first handle320, in embodiments, the notch receiving component of cover380may physically couple to locking notch378.

In embodiments, for example as shown inFIG.5, since first surface432has a generally complementary length434to length418of first handle320, first horizontal end424and second horizontal end426abut opposing fifth walls374. Since the first outer surface444has a height446that is generally complementary to the height422of the first handle320, the second vertical end430of the cover380does not extend beyond the edge414of the first handle320. Stated otherwise, the cover380does not extend longitudinally beyond first handle320. As further depicted inFIG.2andFIG.5, when cover380is secured into place, second surface436rests upon and physically contacts sixth surface376of first handle320. As a result, when the silt and debris catching apparatus100is within a respective valve box assembly102,602,702or the like, the cover380may prevent material (i.e., water, silt, debris, etc.) that may compromise the RFID chip406from entering the channel404. In embodiments, cover380may be released from the locking notch378by an upward force opposite the movement arrow B. In other embodiments a force (not shown) may be employed to spread the cover lower edges wider than first handle width420, thereby allowing the cover380to disengage from first handle320. Turning briefly toFIG.8,FIG.9,FIG.11, andFIG.12, first handle320and cover380are shown in various figures of embodiment 701, indicating the configuration is suitable for multiple embodiments.

In embodiments, a generally perpendicular portion448of helix surface306extends radially inward and generally perpendicular to longitudinal axis210. In other embodiments, generally perpendicular portion448may be configured as related to a different surface (for example and as discussed herein below, the generally perpendicular top surface748).

Returning to the detailed embodiment of housing component201, an opposing second wall450extends longitudinally from perpendicular portion448. Opposing second wall450extends generally parallel to longitudinal axis210. An opposing first wall452extends radially outward from opposing second wall450and extends longitudinally from perpendicular portion448. In other embodiments, for example in embodiments without helix surface306as described herein, generally perpendicular portion448may extend radially inward and generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis210. In other words, the surface may be provided with a slight inward slope to as to provide an advantage of assisting water carried debris into the central portion of the apparatus.

A rounded inner edge454curves radially inward and downward from first inner edge308to a first inner wall456. The first inner wall456extends longitudinally from the rounded inner edge454to an inner sloped surface458the inner sloped surface458extends radially inward and downward from the first inner wall456towards the longitudinal axis210to a second inner edge460. The first inner wall456extends generally parallel to the longitudinal axis210and generally perpendicular to the helix surface306.

Turning briefly toFIG.8, in another embodiment, housing component701may comprise a top surface748. Top surface748is defined by a first inner edge708and a first outer edge709. First outer edge709demarcates a first outer cylindrical wall712that is generally parallel to a longitudinal axis710, such as similar to longitudinal axis210. Diameter714is measured between opposing first outer walls712through the longitudinal axis. It is to be appreciated that housing component701may have a smaller outer diameter than the comparable outer diameter for housing component201. First inner edge708curves radially inward and downward to a first inner wall756. First inner wall756extends longitudinally from the rounded inner edge708to an inner sloped surface758. Inner sloped surface758extends radially inward and downward from the first inner wall756towards the longitudinal axis710to a second inner edge460. The first inner wall756extends generally parallel to the longitudinal axis710and generally perpendicular to the top surface748. It is to be appreciated that housing component701may have a smaller inner diameter than the comparable inner diameter for housing component201.

Second inner edge460defines an opening462of the housing component701. Opening462has a diameter465measured between opposing second inner edges460and through the longitudinal axis710. A plurality of first radially inward extending bosses464extend radially inward from the second inner edge760toward the longitudinal axis710. It is to be appreciated that the embodiment of housing component701may be configured to be generally similar to housing component201for lower portions of the component, with some differences in a second outer wall (excepting portions removed for manufacturing ease or fabricating improvements). Thus, features of an attachment portion as described above for the embodiment of housing component201are generally applicable to the embodiment of housing component701. Feature numbers repeated from the earlier disclosure are thus pertinent in portions of multiple embodiments. First radially inward extending bosses464are generally equidistantly spaced around the opening462. A second inner wall466extends longitudinally from the second inner edge760and is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis710. A plurality of second radially inward extending bosses468extend radially form the second inner wall466. The second radially inward extending bosses468are radially offset from the first radially inward extending bosses464. It is to be appreciated that a slide path as discussed above may limit the number and location of the plurality of second radially inward extending bosses468.FIG.10andFIG.11provide views for housing component701akin toFIG.2andFIG.3for housing component201.

In one particular embodiment, the housing component701is formed from a uniform, monolithic member formed from a suitably rigid material so as to withstand deformation when the housing component701is placed within a respective valve box assembly102,602,702or the like. The housing component701may be fabricated from a polymer material; however other rigid materials are entirely contemplated. Furthermore, the integral structure of the housing component701may be formed from multiple elements having similar configurations as one having ordinary skill in the art would understand. It is contemplated that some embodiments have benefits of being formed in a single unitary process. These embodiments may present further advantages than other embodiments in view of manufacturing processes. In other words, some embodiments may, for example, have a slidably receiving portion (for example,220,224,226,228,230,232,234, and the like) of housing component (for example, housing component201or housing component701) to be formed of a one-piece construction with first handle320. It is further contemplated that in some embodiments, processing techniques related to monolithic members may provide for alterations to the disclosed details above. For example, considerations of removing exterior walls, or portions thereof and replacing portions with ribs may provide for strength while reducing mold complexity and wall thickness concerns.

In an embodiment as best seen inFIG.11, manufacturing improvements of the type indicated are visible in second outer wall716of housing component701. In portions, second outer wall716extends longitudinally to a lower edge718of housing component701(as best seen inFIG.10). Second outer wall716also extends circumferentially to and generally parallel to longitudinal axis210. It is to be appreciated that second outer wall716may extend fully in a circumferential manner around longitudinal axis710, but not for a full vertical direction parallel to longitudinal axis710and instead may employ a number of ribs713A,713B, and715for increased strength and improved manufacturing control.

Turning toFIG.11, ribs713A and713B can be seen, each radially configured from longitudinal axis710. Ribs713A may extend from second outer wall716outward to first outer wall712. It has been discovered that advantages of reducing weight while strengthening the portion of housing component701in the interface area between housing component701and lower riser703(as described herein below) are obtained. Ribs713B may extend from second outer wall (or be stepper inward at lower edge718) radially inward, concurrently with or near second radially inward extending bosses468. A plurality of ribs715may be located extending from or near the walls that comprise first handle320, on the opposing side of transition754in a non-radial manner, and generally extending from a bottom surface generally at the same level of the bottom of first handle320and angling outward and upward to a partial outer wall, and further from the partial portion of second outer wall to a first outer wall. In some embodiments, as best seen inFIG.8andFIG.9, an overflow surface711may be positioned along first outer wall712at opposing ends of first handle320, providing an outer rounded surface, parallel to the sixth wall412of first handle320that slopes downward, with a width from an outer edge of one overflow surface711to an opposing outer edge of overflow surface711less than outer diameter714.

With continued reference toFIG.3, catchment component204comprises an attachment component470and a filtration component472. It is to be appreciated that the disclosure herein is applicable to the embodiment of housing component701as well, but for simplicity, the embodiment of housing component201is referenced.

The attachment component470comprises a first end474and a second end476opposite first end474. The longitudinal axis210proceeds between first end474and second end476. A first annular surface478is defined by a first inner annular edge480and a first outer annular edge482. First annular surface478defines first end474. First annular surface478extends circumferentially around and generally perpendicular to longitudinal axis210. First inner annular edge480defines a first opening484. It is to be appreciated that when the attachment component470is coupled to the housing component201, the first opening484is in open communication with the opening462of the housing component201.

Attachment component470further comprises a second annular surface486that defines second end476and extends circumferentially around and generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis210. Second annular surface486is defined by a second inner annular edge488and a second outer annular edge490. Second inner annular edge488defines a second opening491. An inner surface492extends from first inner annular edge480to second inner annular edge488. Inner surface492extends circumferentially around and generally parallel to the longitudinal axis210. The first inner annular edge480, the inner surface492, and the second inner annular edge488define a bore494.

The attachment component470further comprises a third annular surface496that extends radially outward from the first outer annular edge482to a third outer annular edge498. The third annular surface496extends circumferentially around the longitudinal axis210and pitches downward away from the longitudinal axis210. A first outer wall500extends longitudinally from the third annular surface496to fourth outer annular edge502. The first outer wall500extends circumferentially around and generally parallel to the longitudinal axis210. The first outer wall500is the radial outermost portion of the attachment component470. As depicted inFIG.5, attachment component470has a diameter504measured between opposing first outer walls500and through the longitudinal axis210. The diameter504is generally complementary to the diameter465of the opening462. Furthermore, the diameter504is slightly greater than inner width234of the inlet226. A fourth annular surface505extends radially inward from the fourth outer annular edge502. The fourth annular surface505extends circumferentially around and generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis210

With continued reference toFIG.5, attachment component470further comprises an outer surface506. The outer surface506extends circumferentially around and generally parallel to the longitudinal axis210. The outer surface506includes an attachment surface508for coupling the filtration component472to the attachment component470. The attachment surface508extends longitudinally from a first corner510of the outer surface506to a second corner512of the outer surface506. The attachment surface508has a diameter514measured between opposing sides of the attachment surface508and through the longitudinal axis210.

In one particular embodiment, an attachment component470is formed from a uniform, monolithic member formed from a non-rigid material. Attachment component470may be fabricated from a polymer material; however other materials are entirely contemplated. Furthermore, the integral structure of attachment component470may be formed from multiple elements having similar configurations as one having ordinary skill in the art would understand.

As described herein, in embodiments, inlet226may be adapted to slidably receive the attachment component470. Since the attachment component470has a diameter504that is greater than inner width234of the inlet226and since the attachment component470is formed from a non-rigid material whereas the housing component201is formed of a rigid material, the first rounded wall230and the second rounded232wall compress the attachment component470when the attachment component470is inserted into the inlet226. As force is applied to the attachment component470, the rounded walls continue to compress the attachment component470until the attachment component470completely passes through inlet226and rests within the opening462. When completely within the opening462, the attachment component470decompresses and returns to its original shape.

When attachment component470is inserted into housing component201, the first outer wall500of attachment component470contacts the second inner wall466, the first rounded wall230and the second rounded wall232of housing component201(also shown inFIG.11). This contact holds attachment component470horizontally within housing component201. Furthermore, the first annular surface478of the attachment component470contacts the first radially inward extending bosses464and the fourth annular surface505contacts the second radially inward extending bosses468of housing component201. This contact holds the attachment component vertically within housing component201. It is to be appreciated that this description applies to other embodiments, for example, housing component701.

Returning toFIG.3, the filtration component472includes a first end516, a second end518, and the longitudinal axis210extends between the first end516and the second end518. The second end518of the filtration component472defines the second end208of the silt and debris catching apparatus100.

The filtration component472comprises an annular attachment section520and a filtration section522. In one embodiment, the filtration section522is a mesh direct pass-through filter however which selectively retains certain material (i.e., solid material, silt, debris, etc.) while allowing other material (i.e., liquid material, water, etic.) to pass through. In embodiments, other filters including solid filters or other pass-through filters of different lengths, micron sizes, and materials (i.e., plastic fiber, metal, etc.) are contemplated. In particular, a multi-layer debris retainer that may not be flexible is contemplated for use cases such as street repaving, as asphalt debris may be heavier than other debris. The attachment section520comprises an annular surface524. The annular surface524extends circumferentially and generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis210and defines an opening526. The annular surface524defines the first end516. The opening526has a diameter528measured between opposing sides of the annular surface524though the longitudinal axis210. The diameter528is generally complementary the diameter514of the attachment surface508. The attachment section520may be coupled to the attachment surface508. In one embodiment, attachment section520is coupled to attachment surface508via several crimps. Other forms of coupling (i.e., chemical adhesives, stitching, etc.) are envisioned. When the filtration component472is coupled to the attachment component470, the opening526is in open communication with the second opening491of the attachment component470.

FIG.3,FIG.3AandFIG.5depict an embodiment of a valve box assembly102in operation with an embodiment of the silt and debris catching apparatus100. It is to be appreciated that valve box assembly102may take several forms as known in the art, for example, and without limitation, valve box assemblies602and702. Embodiments of valve box assembly702are shown inFIG.7throughFIG.13.

Turning toFIG.6, a longitudinal partial cross-section perspective view of the operational embodiment is described in relation to an embodiment of the valve box assembly602and may include a valve body riser103and a valve box cover604. It is to be appreciated that in other embodiments, for example as depicted inFIG.7AandFIG.13, other embodiments of valve box assemblies may include a plurality of valve body risers (for example valve body riser103and lower riser703) and a valve box cover604. It is to be appreciated that while the embodiments discussed may use terminology of valve box assemblies102,602, or702, other valve box assemblies not shown are applicable to the disclosed innovative concepts.

Returning toFIG.6, a circular surface606of valve box cover604is defined by an outer edge608of valve box cover604. Circular surface606extends circumferentially around and is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis210. Circular surface606has a diameter610measured between opposing outer edges608and through the longitudinal axis210. Valve box assembly602includes a first end612and a second end614opposite first end612. The longitudinal axis210is between first end612and second end614. It is to be appreciated that when valve box assembly602is placed in the ground, first end612is generally flush with the ground surface. Second end614may be adjacent to a pipe616. It is to be appreciated that typically a valve box assembly, such as602will be concentric with a control valve618that is coupled to the pipe616. As pictured inFIG.6, a first annular surface620defines the first end612. First annular surface620may be defined by a first inner annular edge622and a first outer annular edge624. The first annular surface620extends circumferentially around and generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis210. The first inner annular edge622defines a first opening626. The first opening626has a diameter628measured through the longitudinal axis210and between opposing first inner annular edges622. The diameter628of the first opening626is generally complementary to the diameter610of the valve box cover604, with diameter610generally less than diameter628but greater than an inner diameter632, as discussed below. The complementary diameters610and628of the valve box cover604and the valve body riser103permit the valve box cover604to loosely fit into the valve body riser103. The loose fit permits the valve box cover604to be placed into and removed from the valve body riser103by hand. Furthermore, diameter628is slightly larger than diameter214of housing component201which allows the slit and debris catching apparatus100to be placed within the valve box assembly102.

The valve body riser103further comprises an inner surface630. The inner surface630extends circumferentially around and generally parallel to the longitudinal axis210. The inner surface630has a diameter632measured between opposing sides of the inner surface630. The diameter632of the inner surface630is slightly less than the diameter628of the valve body riser103. Furthermore, the diameter632is generally complementary to the diameter214of the housing component201. An upper surface634of the thread106extends radially inward from the inner surface630to a first edge636. A crest638of the thread106extends longitudinally from the first edge636to a second edge640. Crest638extends circumferentially and generally parallel to the longitudinal axis210and the upper surface634extends circumferentially and generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis210.

Since the diameter632of the inner surface630is generally complementary to the diameter214of the housing component201and since the upper surface634of the thread106extends radially inward from the inner surface630, when the silt and debris catching apparatus100is placed within the valve box assembly102, the rounded surface236of the housing component201rests upon the upper surface634of the thread106. Furthermore, since the pitch104of the thread106corresponds to the pitch316of the helix surface306, the silt and debris catching apparatus100may be lowered into the valve box assembly102by rotating the silt and debris catching apparatus100clockwise about the longitudinal axis210and may be removed from the valve box assembly102by rotating the silt and debris catching apparatus100counterclockwise about the longitudinal axis210. In embodiments, the silt and debris catching apparatus100may be lowered approximately 3-5 feet below the surface within valve box assembly102(see D onFIG.6). It is to be appreciated that such provides advantages that may not be possible with straining devices that are located near a surface in which temperature concerns may arise. In embodiments, when a surface temperature is below freezing, it is to be appreciated that subsurface temperatures may exceed freezing. Generally, this may be at a range of 3-5 feet, and it is to be appreciated that other ranges may apply. As a result, water that enters catchment component204may not freeze which allows water to pass through the catchment component204. It is to be further appreciated that in certain circumstances, such as variances within a season (for example thaw and freeze cycles), screening applications that are not below a freeze line can have their performance adversely affected, removing the advantages of the present disclosure.

In embodiments, first opening626of the valve box assembly102may be in open communication with the opening462of the housing component201. As such material644(i.e., water, silt, debris, etc.) may enter the first opening626of the valve box assembly102and pass through the opening462of the housing component201. Since the opening462of the housing component201is in open communication with the opening526of the filtration component472, the material644that passes through the opening462of the housing component201may enter the filtration section522and allowing water to continue flowing, capturing material644that otherwise would clog access to control valve618. After the silt and debris catching apparatus100is removed from the valve box assembly102, the catchment component204may be removed from the housing component201. When removed, catchment component204may be inverted thereby removing material644from filtration component472. It is to be appreciated that similar mechanism would occur with an embodiment of silt and debris catching apparatus700and the embodiment of valve box assembly702as discussed herein.

Turning now toFIG.7AandFIG.13, another embodiment of a silt and debris catching apparatus700is shown with an embodiment of a valve box assembly702as discussed herein.FIG.8throughFIG.10provide views of details of an embodiment of housing component701.FIG.11throughFIG.13provide views of an embodiment with varying degrees of assembly of a silt and debris catching apparatus in a valve box assembly.

FIG.7Ais an assembled operational partial cutaway perspective view depicting an embodiment of a valve box assembly702with a silt and debris catching apparatus700. Valve box assembly702may have a valve body riser103(alternatively known as a first valve body riser), a lower riser703(alternatively known as a second valve body riser) and a valve box cover604. It is to be appreciated that references may be made toFIG.6for some descriptions of valve body riser103.

Valve box assembly702includes a first end705and a second end707opposite first end705. Longitudinal axis710continues between first end705and second end707. With brief reference toFIG.6(for valve body riser103), a first annular surface620defines the first end705. First annular surface620may be defined by a first inner annular edge622and a first outer annular edge624. It is to be appreciated that longitudinal axis710may be referred to as longitudinal axis210, as some descriptions of embodiments are interchangeable. It is to be further appreciated that when valve box assembly702is placed in the ground, first end705is generally flush with the ground surface. Second end707may be adjacent to pipe616. In embodiments, second end707may define a lower portion of lower riser703. It is to be appreciated that typically a valve box assembly, such as702, will be concentric with a control valve618that is coupled to pipe616.

The first annular surface620extends circumferentially around and generally perpendicular to longitudinal axis710. The first inner annular edge622defines a first opening626. First opening626has a diameter628measured through longitudinal axis710and between opposing first inner annular edges622. A circular surface606of valve box cover604is defined by an outer edge608of valve box cover604. Circular surface606extends circumferentially around and is generally perpendicular to longitudinal axis710. Circular surface606has a diameter610measured between opposing outer edges608and through the longitudinal axis710. Diameter628of first opening626is generally complementary to the diameter606of the valve box cover604, with diameter606generally less than diameter628but greater than an inner diameter632, as noted herein. The complementary diameters606and628of the valve box cover604and the valve body riser103permit the valve box cover604to loosely fit into the valve body riser103. The loose fit permits the valve box cover604to be placed into and removed from the valve body riser103by hand. Furthermore, the diameter628is slightly larger than the diameter714of the housing component701which allows the slit and debris catching apparatus700to be placed within the valve box assembly702.

The valve body riser103further comprises an inner surface630. The inner surface630extends circumferentially around and generally parallel to the longitudinal axis210. The inner surface630has a diameter632measured between opposing sides of the inner surface630. The diameter632of the inner surface630is slightly less than the diameter628of the valve body riser103. Furthermore, diameter632is generally complementary to a diameter732(not shown) of the lower riser703. An upper surface634of the thread106extends radially inward from the inner surface630to a first edge636. A crest638of thread106extends longitudinally from the first edge636to a second edge640. Crest638extends circumferentially and generally parallel to the longitudinal axis710and the upper surface634extends circumferentially and generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis710.

As pictured inFIG.7B, lower riser703has a first annular surface720. First annular surface720may be defined by a first inner annular edge722and a first outer annular edge724. The first annular surface720extends circumferentially around and generally perpendicular to longitudinal axis710. First inner annular edge722defines a second opening726(not shown). Lower riser703further comprises an inner surface730. Inner surface730extends circumferentially around and generally parallel to the longitudinal axis710. The second opening726has a diameter732(not shown) measured through the longitudinal axis710and between opposing first inner annular edges722. The diameter732of the second opening726is generally complementary to and slightly greater than diameter714of a housing component701. The complementary diameters714and732of housing component701and lower riser703permit housing component701to loosely fit into the lower riser703. The loose fit permits housing component701to be placed into and removed from the lower riser703by hand. Furthermore, diameter714of housing component701is slightly larger than diameter726but smaller than diameter732which allows the slit and debris catching apparatus700to be placed within the valve box assembly702, pass through valve body riser103and set on first annular surface720of lower riser703, as shown inFIG.7B.

The lower riser703further comprises an outer surface728. The outer surface728extends circumferentially around and generally parallel to the longitudinal axis710. The outer surface728has a diameter726(not shown) measured between opposing sides of the outer surface728. The diameter726of the outer surface728is slightly less than the diameter628of the valve body riser103. Furthermore, the diameter732is generally complementary to a diameter628of the valve body riser103. Outer surface728is configured to have a thread706extends radially outward with a crest738. Crest738extends circumferentially and generally parallel to longitudinal axis710. Thread706may extend for one or more revolutions around longitudinal axis710.

In constructing a valve box assembly with valve body riser103and lower riser703, valve body riser103is typically adjusted after installation of lower riser703to reach a local surface (and miles of piping systems may present many multiple different heights of local surface). Since the diameter632of the inner surface630is generally complementary to the diameter732of the lower riser703and since thread106extends radially inward from the inner surface630, when valve body riser103is placed within the valve box assembly702, thread106of valve body riser103rests upon thread706of lower riser703. Furthermore, since the pitch104of the thread106corresponds to the pitch704of lower riser703, valve body riser103may be adjusted downward into the valve box assembly702by rotating valve body riser103clockwise about the longitudinal axis710or and may be adjusted upward in relation to the valve box assembly702by rotating valve body riser103counterclockwise about the longitudinal axis710.

It is to be appreciated that through most adjustments, first annular surface720of lower riser703may be located approximately 3-5 feet below the surface within valve box assembly702. It is to be further appreciated that such provides advantages that may not be possible with straining devices that are located near a surface in which temperature concerns may arise. In embodiments, when a surface temperature is below freezing, it is to be appreciated that subsurface temperatures may exceed freezing. Generally, this may be at a range of 3-5 feet, and it is to be appreciated that other ranges may apply. As a result, water that enters catchment component204may not freeze which allows water to pass through the catchment component204. It is to be further appreciated that in certain circumstances, such as variances within a season (for example thaw and freeze cycles), screening applications that are not below a freeze line can have their performance adversely affected, removing the advantages of the present disclosure.

Placing an apparatus, such as for example apparatus700, into valve box assembly702is simplified per the disclosed innovation. One may remove a valve box cover604, and in some embodiments, determine a length of field installable second handle796. Field installable second handle796is field installable and adjustable, as a desired height is likely to vary for many valve box assemblies in a piping network. Attach the field installable second handle796to apparatus700by way of slots794in housing component701. It is to be appreciated that housing component701is configured to pass through first valve body riser103and rest on annular surface720of second valve body riser703(the portion of second valve body riser facing first end705), and that housing component701has a first handle320. The configuration as disclosed provides that apparatus700will self-align as it passes down through first valve body riser103with housing component701being guided by thread106of first valve body riser103, allowing apparatus700to come to rest on annular surface720.

In embodiments, first opening626of the valve box assembly702may be in open communication with the opening762of the housing component701. As such material644(i.e., water, silt, debris, etc.) may enter the first opening626of the valve box assembly702and pass through the opening762of the housing component701. Since the opening762of the housing component701is in open communication with the opening526of the filtration component472, the material644that passes through the opening762of the housing component701may enter the filtration section522and allowing water to continue flowing and capturing material644that otherwise would clog access to control valve618. After the silt and debris catching apparatus700is removed from the valve box assembly702, the catchment component204may be removed from the housing component701. When removed, catchment component204may be inverted thereby removing material644from filtration component472.

As disclosed herein, apparatus700is provided for maintaining valve accessibility in a valve box assembly702. Apparatus700comprises a housing component701configured to pass through a first valve body riser103and rest on annular portion (or surface)720of second valve body riser703of valve box assembly702. It is to be appreciated that apparatus700further comprises catchment component204that comprises a top portion and a mesh portion as disclosed herein. It is to be further appreciated that the mesh portion is adapted to retain material644that enters valve box assembly702. Still further to be appreciated, the top portion of catchment component204is adapted to attach to housing component701as disclosed in that housing component701is configured to slidably receive the top portion of catchment component204.

Embodiments also provide housing component701that may be configured with first handle320defining a pair of slots794spaced apart from one another. It is to be appreciated that apparatus700self-aligns as apparatus700passes through first valve body riser103. Upon being installed, housing component701is guided by thread106(also referred to as a set of threads) of first valve body riser103as housing component701passes through first valve body riser103to rest on annular portion (or surface)720of second valve body riser703of the valve box assembly702.

Also as disclosed herein, embodiments of the disclosed innovation also include a method for configuring an apparatus700for maintaining valve accessibility in valve box assembly702. The method includes locating valve box assembly702that has a first valve body riser103, a second valve body riser703and a valve box cover604. After removing valve box cover604, the method may include placing a top portion of catchment component204into a slidably receiving portion ((for example,220,224,226,228,230,232,234, and the like)) of housing component701that is configured to provide a path through rigid members (for example230,232). The method includes dropping apparatus701into valve box assembly702, and reengaging valve box cover604with first valve body riser103.

It is to be appreciated that method embodiments include a housing component (such as for example housing component701) that is configured with first handle320defining a pair of slots794spaced apart from one another, along with a catchment component (for example, catchment component204) that is configured to self-align as apparatus701passes through first valve body riser103. Other embodiments may include that during the dropping, housing component701may be guided by thread106(also referred to as a set of threads) of first valve body riser103as housing component701passes through first valve body riser103to rest on annular portion (or surface)720of second valve body riser703of the valve box assembly702.

To the extent that the present disclosure has utilized the term “invention” in various titles or sections of this specification, or in the context of those sections, this term has been included as required by the formatting requirements of word document submissions (i.e., docx submissions) pursuant the guidelines/requirements of the United States Patent and Trademark Office and shall not, in any manner, be considered a disavowal of any subject matter.

In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used for brevity, clarity, and understanding. No unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom beyond the requirement of the prior art because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed.