Abstract:
A system is provided for enhancing the interconnectability of a bathtub to a plumbing system. More specifically, provided is a flexible conduit and an overflow assembly that allows for a portion of the overflow assembly to be easily located with the wall of a bathtub. The flexible conduit provided allows for adjustability of the conduit to the openings of the bathtub. In addition, provided are methods and apparatus that facilitate testing of a plumbing assembly. Finally, an apparatus and methods are provided that protect portions of the finished bathtub assembly to decrease in the need for replacing said hardware. It is envisioned that aspects and inventions disclosed herein can be used in conjunction to facilitate the interconnection and protection of hardware associated with a bathtub.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application is a Continuation-In-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/074,442, filed Nov. 7, 2013, which is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/691,405, filed Nov. 30, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,584,272, which is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/234,030, filed Sep. 15, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,321,970, which is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/931,681, filed Oct. 31, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,028,357, which is a Continuation-In-Part of abandoned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/674,862, filed Sep. 30, 2003, which is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/222,062, filed Aug. 16, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,637,050, and a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/229,533, filed Aug. 28, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,675,406, which is a Continuation of abandoned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/593,724, filed Jun. 13, 2000. 
         [0002]    U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/691,405 is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/732,726, filed Dec. 10, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,302,220, which is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/954,420, filed Sep. 17, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,691,411. 
         [0003]    U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/691,405 is a Continuation-In-Part of abandoned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/721,694, filed Nov. 25, 2003, which is a Continuation-In-Part of abandoned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/247,247, filed Sep. 19, 2002. 
         [0004]    U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/691,405 is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/100,762, filed Apr. 10, 2008, which is a Continuation-In-Part of abandoned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/971,895, filed Oct. 22, 2004. 
         [0005]    U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/691,405 is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/161,933, filed Aug. 23, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,503,083. 
         [0006]    The entire disclosures of the applications and patents listed above are incorporated by reference herein. 
         [0007]    This application is also related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/873,200, filed Oct. 16, 2007, which is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/423,996, filed Jun. 14, 2006, which is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/370,545, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,185,529, filed Feb. 20, 2003. The entire disclosures of the applications and patents listed above are incorporated by reference herein. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0008]    Embodiments of the present invention are generally related to components of a plumbing system associated with a bathtub, shower stall, sink, etc. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to a kit that includes devices that facilitate interconnection of the plumbing system to the bathtub, which allows for testing of the plumbing interconnections, and protects finished hardware associated with the bathtub. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0009]    During new building construction or renovation of an existing building structure, plumbers often must connect or reconnect bathroom fixtures to the plumbing system. Often plumbers find that interconnecting common bathroom fixtures, such as a bathtub, is difficult and time consuming. “Bathtubs” as referred to herein include a tub with a drain port and an overflow port such that if the drain port is plugged, water will flow into the overflow port and drain through the plumbing system and not out of the tub. Generally, the bathtub is interconnected to the plumbing system by a main drain pipe that is interconnected to the drain port of the bathtub via a horizontal segment, and that is associated with the overflow port of the bathtub via a vertical segment. The two drain segments merge at a tee connector that is also interconnected to the main drain pipe that feeds into a sewer line. During construction, the often heavy bathtub must be aligned properly to interconnect with the drain pipe segment (horizontal) and the overflow pipe segment (vertical) of the drain pipe. Often the drain pipe segments are near a wall, awkwardly oriented, etc. and are, thus, difficult to interconnect to the bathtub. 
         [0010]    Once the drain pipe segments are aligned with the bathtub, the drain pipes must usually be blocked for testing. In the past, a plug, bladder, or cap has been employed to facilitate testing. Plugs and/or caps are easily misplaced and are often difficult to install, thereby increasing the time and difficulty of testing the plumbing system. 
         [0011]    Another drawback of bathtub assemblies of the prior art is that the finishing hardware commonly associated with a bathtub drain often is damaged during construction. Traditionally, finished hardware made of chrome or brass, for example, is interconnected to the bathtub drain port during construction as a rigid interconnection between the drain pipe and the bathtub is required. Thereafter, workers may damage the often expensive finished hardware by marring, scratching, or even urinating on the same. Thereafter, the plumbing contractor must replace the finished hardware and retest the integrity of the new connection, which adds expense. 
         [0012]    Thus it is a long felt need to provide a system that facilitates the interconnection of a bathtub to a plumbing system, enhances the testing of the system, and protects expensive hardware after the assembly is complete. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0013]    Traditionally, an overflow system of a bathtub includes an overflow port that is interconnected to a vertical drain pipe via an elbow. 
         [0014]    It is one aspect of the present invention to facilitate this interconnection by providing an elbow with a flange protruding therefrom. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention employ a flange or lip that is spaced from an end of the elbow that will be positioned in the bathtub. The end includes exterior threads that receive a nut, which is designed to detachably receive a cap. 
         [0015]    In operation, one end of the elbow is interconnected to the drain pipe and the other end, which is located adjacent to the flange, is placed within the perimeter of an overflow port such that the flange abuts an outer surface of the bathtub, or is spaced therefrom by a compliant washer. The cylindrical fitting is then interconnected to the elbow which locates the other, closed end of the cylindrical fitting within the bathtub. The nut is used to sandwich the bathtub between the nut and the flange which provides a generally rigid connection. Some embodiments of the present invention also employ a washer between the tub and the nut. 
         [0016]    It is a related aspect of the present invention to selectively block fluid flow through the overflow assembly. More specifically, the closed portion of the cylindrical fitting acts as a plug for testing of the plumbing system. After testing is complete the closed portion may be cut, or otherwise removed, to allow fluid flow through the overflow assembly. If additional testing is required, traditional methods of plugging the overflow assembly may be employed. 
         [0017]    It is another aspect of the invention to provide a method of installing a drain assembly that can be accomplished by one individual. A related aspect of embodiments of the invention is to provide a method of installing a bathtub drain assembly that allows for ease in leak testing. Yet another aspect of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a method of installing the drain assembly that eliminates the need for the removal of a strainer body often associated with drain assemblies. In accordance with these and other aspects, one method includes inserting an L-shaped drain pipe having a threaded upper end and an annular flange covered by a membrane, through a drain port of the bathtub, such that the annular flange rests on a bottom surface of the bathtub. Next, a lock washer is threadingly engaged to the threaded portion. The other end of the L-shaped drain pipe is then connected to the drain system of the building. The assembly can then be tested for leaks. Once it is determined that no leaks are present, the membrane is removed from the flange on the upper end of the drain pipe. Finally, a finished cover is installed on the annular flange. 
         [0018]    It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a bathtub drain pipe assembly that facilitates integration of the various drain pipes mentioned thus far to the bathtub. Embodiments of the present invention thus include a flexible hollow tube instead of rigid drain pipes that simplifies the installation of the bathtub to the plumbing system. The flexible tube of embodiments of the present invention has the added benefit of being easily modifiable and possesses a smooth inner surface to prevent the often unsanitary trapping of fluid or debris within the flexible hollow tube. 
         [0019]    That is, it is one aspect of embodiments of the present invention to provide a system that facilitates the installation of a bathtub to a plumbing system. More specifically, instead of utilizing rigid pipes to direct fluid from an overflow assembly or the drain assembly of the bathtub, embodiments of the present invention employ flexible pipes. One embodiment of the present invention, preferably employs a flexible pipe that connects the overflow assembly of a bathtub to a tee connector. Yet another flexible pipe is employed between the drain and the tee connector. The tee connector is also interconnected to a rigid main waste pipe of the plumbing system. Another embodiment of the present invention provides a single flexible hose wherein the tee connector is directly interconnected to the drain assembly of a bathtub, for example. In such embodiment, the tee connector is also interconnected to the main drain pipe of the plumbing assembly. 
         [0020]    It is contemplated that the flexible portions of the pipes described herein may be cut to length as needed. Often, as one skilled in the art will appreciate, plumbing systems are not perfectly aligned with the overflow or drain ports of a bathtub. In the past, a plumbing contractor would be required to alter the plumbing system to account for the misalignment, an expensive and time consuming undertaking. Alternatively, expensive modifications related to the installation of the bathtub, sink, etc. would have to be performed. Some plumbing contractors exert undesired force to move parts into alignment, which stresses the rigid pipes and makes them susceptible to leaking, breakage, etc. Thus, embodiments of the present invention provide a system wherein flexible pipes are provided that may be adjusted to a preferred size (e.g. by cutting) and selectively bent to accommodate misalignments. This aspect of the present invention is desirable because the addition of multiple elbows, for example, is not required. The addition of multiple elbows not only increases the chances for leaks, but also creates a complicated flow path for drainage water that can add to the instances of clogging. As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, the robustness offered by embodiments of the present invention enables vertical or horizontal adjustments that are superior to the prior art methods. 
         [0021]    Yet another aspect of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a system and method that can be installed on virtually any type of bathtub. More specifically, the horizontal or vertical distances between the drain port and the overflow port can vary from bathtub to bathtub. The robustness provided by the flexible overflow or drain pipes of the present invention, and the ability to customize the same, allows for desired accommodation for bathtubs of various type/design. Thus, contractors no longer need to customize a plurality of rigid tubes as embodiments of the present invention allow for easy cutting and modifying of flexible tubes to meet their requirements. 
         [0022]    It is another aspect of embodiments of the present invention to provide a system and method that can be used with common overflow and drain assemblies. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is used in conjunction with the overflow assembly described in the U.S. patents and patent applications listed herein and those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,618,875, 6,622,317, and 7,017,199. The flexible pipes described herein are also adapted to be used with drain assemblies provided in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 20070044230, 2006009019, and 20060096018 and U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,317,906, 6,173,459, 6,640,358, 6,418,570, 6,691,411 and 6,546,573, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein. Embodiments of the present invention have the ability to be bonded or otherwise interconnected easily to overflow assemblies and drain assemblies shown and referred to herein, or to other commonly used overflow and/or drain assemblies. 
         [0023]    Thus, it is a related aspect of the present invention to provide a kit to be used by plumbing contractors. More specifically, it is contemplated that a kit containing overflow assemblies, drain assemblies, finishing hardware, etc. may be supplied in a single package that includes flexible pipes. Further, it is contemplated that such flexible pipes may be provided in lengths that are purposely longer than required to enable a contractor the ability to trim the flexible pipes as needed or desired. 
         [0024]    It is yet another aspect of embodiments of the present invention to provide flexible pipe sections that employ a generally smooth inner surface. More specifically, although certain types of flexible pipes are generally well known, flexible pipes of the prior art often employ bellows that have internally and externally disposed corrugations. Although such a configuration is acceptable in some arenas, in the plumbing art it often is not. More specifically, internally disposed corrugations are apt to retain fluids and/or debris from the bathtub, such as hair, dirt, skin etc. This debris and related fluid is a breeding ground for germs, bacteria, and mold. Thus building codes often require that drain pipes must be generally smooth to provide laminar flow that facilitates the drainage of all fluid from the bathtub and associated pipes. 
         [0025]    It is still yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a protective cover that interconnects to the installed drain assembly. More specifically, a flange of the protective drain cover is superimposed over the flange of a waste water strainer located in a bathtub, sink or the like. A lip located about the outer perimeter of the flange of the cover fits over the outer periphery of the flange of the waste water strainer and centers the cover on the strainer. A cylindrical wall, which extends from the flange of the cover, is positioned downwardly through a cylindrical wall of the waste water strainer. The two cylindrical walls are spaced from each other by one or more seals that are positioned in grooves. 
         [0026]    It is an aspect of the embodiment of the present invention to combine some or all of the above-described aspects to provide a system that facilitates interconnection of the bathtub to the plumbing system of a structure. More specifically, it is contemplated to use aspects described above, provided below, or apparent to one skilled in the art in conjunction to alleviate all of the difficulties noted above that are associated with interconnecting a bathtub to a plumbing system of a structure. For example, one skilled in the art will appreciate the overflow assembly can be easily integrated with the flexible pipes described above to expand the interconnection options available to a plumber. In addition, the protective drain cover may also be used. It is contemplated that the above described aspects of the present invention will provide a complete kit wherein all of the necessary components will be included to aid the plumber in interconnecting a bathtub to the plumbing of a structure, facilitate testing of the same and protecting fragile and expensive components thereof, which will increase efficiency and decreasing costs of the operation. 
         [0027]    The Summary of the Invention is neither intended nor should it be construed as being representative of the full extent and scope of the present invention. The present invention is set forth in various levels of detail in the Summary of the Invention as well as in the attached drawings and the Detailed Description of the Invention and no limitation as to the scope of the present invention is intended by either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summary of the Invention. Additional aspects of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the Detail Description, particularly when taken together with the drawings. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0028]    The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the general description of the invention given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of these inventions. 
           [0029]      FIG. 1  is a partial perspective view of a bathtub; 
           [0030]      FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional view of  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0031]      FIG. 3  is an exploded perspective view of an overflow assembly of one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0032]      FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional assembled view of the overflow assembly shown in  FIG. 3 ; 
           [0033]      FIG. 5  is an exploded perspective view of an alternate embodiment of an overflow assembly; 
           [0034]      FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional, assembled view of the overflow assembly shown in  FIG. 5 ; 
           [0035]      FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a cylindrical fitting employed in overflow assemblies of some embodiments of the present invention; 
           [0036]      FIG. 8  is an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of an overflow assembly that employs a one-piece overflow pipe and cylindrical fitting; 
           [0037]      FIG. 9  is a perspective view of the one-piece overflow pipe and cylindrical fitting shown in  FIG. 8 ; 
           [0038]      FIG. 10  is an exploded perspective view of a drain assembly of one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0039]      FIG. 11  is a side elevation view of the drain assembly shown in  FIG. 10  interconnected to the bathtub; 
           [0040]      FIG. 12  is a side elevation view of a prior art interconnection horizontal and vertical drain pipes; 
           [0041]      FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a flexible overflow pipe; 
           [0042]      FIG. 14  is a side elevation view of the flexible conduit of  FIG. 13  interconnected to the bathtub; 
           [0043]      FIG. 15  is a side elevation of horizontal and vertical flexible conduits interconnected to the bathtub; 
           [0044]      FIG. 16  is a partial cross-section of a flexible pipe of one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0045]      FIG. 17  is a partial perspective view of a bathtub showing a test cap interconnected to the overflow port; 
           [0046]      FIG. 18  is a perspective view of a test cap of one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0047]      FIG. 19  is a cross-sectional view of the test cap of  FIG. 18  interconnected to an overflow pipe; 
           [0048]      FIG. 20  is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a test cap; 
           [0049]      FIG. 21  is a cross-sectional view of the test cap of  FIG. 20  shown interconnected to an overflow pipe; 
           [0050]      FIG. 22  is a side elevation view of an alternative embodiment of the test cap interconnected to an overflow pipe; 
           [0051]      FIG. 23  is a front elevation view of another embodiment of the test cap having a removable diaphragm; 
           [0052]      FIG. 24  is a rear perspective view of the test cap shown in  FIG. 23 ; 
           [0053]      FIG. 25  is a perspective view of a protective cover and drain; 
           [0054]      FIG. 26  is a cross-sectional view of the protective cover shown in  FIG. 24 ; and 
           [0055]      FIG. 27  is a cross-sectional view of an alternate embodiment of the protective cover. 
       
    
    
       [0056]    To assist in the understanding of the present invention the following list of components and associated numbering found in the drawings is provided herein: 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
             
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
               
                 # 
                 Component 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 2 
                 Overflow assembly 
               
               
                 6 
                 Bathtub 
               
               
                 10 
                 Drain port 
               
               
                 14 
                 Overflow port 
               
               
                 18 
                 Elbow 
               
               
                 22 
                 Overflow pipe 
               
               
                 26 
                 Tee connector 
               
               
                 30 
                 First end 
               
               
                 34 
                 Second end 
               
               
                 38 
                 Flange 
               
               
                 42 
                 Shoulder 
               
               
                 46 
                 Cylindrical fitting 
               
               
                 50 
                 Threads 
               
               
                 54 
                 Diaphragm 
               
               
                 58 
                 Outer surface 
               
               
                 62 
                 Wall 
               
               
                 66 
                 Inner surface 
               
               
                 70 
                 Washer 
               
               
                 74 
                 Nut 
               
               
                 78 
                 Lug 
               
               
                 82 
                 Threads 
               
               
                 86 
                 Cap 
               
               
                 90 
                 Notch 
               
               
                 94 
                 Protrusions 
               
               
                 98 
                 Ring 
               
               
                 102 
                 Cutting tool 
               
               
                 106 
                 Opening 
               
               
                 110 
                 Drain assembly 
               
               
                 112 
                 Edge 
               
               
                 114 
                 Tub floor 
               
               
                 118 
                 Drain pipe flange 
               
               
                 122 
                 Nut 
               
               
                 126 
                 Cylindrical portion 
               
               
                 130 
                 Threads 
               
               
                 134 
                 Drain pipe 
               
               
                 138 
                 Membrane 
               
               
                 140 
                 Cover 
               
               
                 144 
                 Drain closure 
               
               
                 148 
                 Flexible conduit 
               
               
                 152 
                 Coil 
               
               
                 156 
                 Flexible material 
               
               
                 160 
                 Web 
               
               
                 164 
                 Axis 
               
               
                 176 
                 Test cap 
               
               
                 180 
                 Cylindrical body 
               
               
                 184 
                 Flange 
               
               
                 188 
                 Face 
               
               
                 192 
                 Interior threads 
               
               
                 196 
                 Inner surface 
               
               
                 200 
                 Protective cover 
               
               
                 204 
                 Opening 
               
               
                 208 
                 Flange 
               
               
                 212 
                 Tubular wall 
               
               
                 216 
                 Groove 
               
               
                 220 
                 Seal 
               
               
                 224 
                 Strainer 
               
               
                 228 
                 First portion 
               
               
                 232 
                 Second portion 
               
               
                 236 
                 Conical portion 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0057]    It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. In certain instances, details which are not necessary for an understanding of the invention or which render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course, that the invention is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0058]    Referring now to  FIGS. 1-9  an overflow assembly  2  adapted for interconnection to a bathtub  6  is provided. The overflow assembly  2  is adapted to be used in conjunction with a bathtub  6  having a drain port  10  and an overflow port  14 . The overflow port  14  receives an L shaped elbow  18  that leads into an overflow pipe  22  that eventually feeds into a tee-connector  26 . The tee-connector  26  also receives fluid from the drain port  10  of the bathtub  6  and has an opening that connects to the sewer system of the structure. 
         [0059]    Turning now specifically to  FIGS. 2-4 , an overflow assembly of one embodiment of the present invention is provided. Here, the elbow  18  includes a first end  30  and a second end  34  wherein a flange  38  is spaced from the first end  30 . Thus, the first end  30  comprises a lip that protrudes from the flange  38 . The first end  30  is adapted to receive a shoulder  42  of a cylindrical fitting  46  that also includes an outer surface with a plurality of threads  50  and may have a diaphragm  54  situated on one end thereof. 
         [0060]    In operation, the flange  38  is adapted to abut an outer surface  58  of the bathtub  6 , thereby placing the first end  30  at least partially within the thickness of the bathtub wall  62  or away from an inner surface  66  of the bathtub  6  which facilitates alignment of the overflow port and the overflow assembly  2 . After the elbow  18  is properly aligned and engaged within the overflow port  14  of the bathtub  6 , the cylindrical fitting  46  is interconnected thereto wherein the shoulder  42  is placed in contact with the first end  30  of the elbow  18 . A washer  70  is then placed around the cylindrical fitting  46  and in abutting relationship with the inner surface  66  of the bathtub  6 . A nut  74  having a plurality of externally protruding lugs  78  and internal threads  82  is then screwed on to the threads  50  of the cylindrical fitting  46 , thereby sandwiching the wall  62  of the bathtub  6  between the flange  38  and the washer  70 . The lugs  78  of the nut  74  are adapted to receive an inner surface of a cap  86 . The cap  86  also employs at least one notch  90  that allows for water to flow from the cap  86  through the elbow  18  and into the overflow pipe  22  of the plumbing system. 
         [0061]    After the overflow system is interconnected to the bathtub, testing it is often required. Often such testing of the overflow assembly  2  must be blocked. Thus, as briefly described above, the cylindrical fitting  46  may include a diaphragm  54  that prevents flow of liquid therethrough. After testing is complete the diaphragm  54  may be cut away to provide a flow path from the notch  90  of the cap  86  into the elbow  18 . No additional hardware, such as a test cap, is needed to perform testing. 
         [0062]    Referring now to  FIGS. 5 and 6 , an alternate embodiment of an overflow assembly  2  is provided. More specifically, the nut  74  described above includes a plurality of protrusions  94  aligned on a ring  98  that is positioned adjacent to the plurality of the lugs  78 . The protrusions  94  allow for enhanced interconnectability between the nut  74  and the cylindrical fitting  46  by providing a plurality of finger holds. 
         [0063]    Referring now to  FIG. 7 , the cylindrical fitting  46  of the overflow assembly  2  of one embodiment of the present invention is provided. As mentioned above, it is often desirous to maintain the integrity of the overflow assembly  2  such that fluids or air are maintained within the plumbing assembly, i.e. plugged. After any required testing is complete, a cutting tool  102  is employed to remove the diaphragm  54  of the cylindrical fitting  46 , thereby providing an opening  106  for fluids. 
         [0064]    Referring now to  FIGS. 8 and 9 , yet another variation of the above-identified overflow assembly is provided. Here, a one-piece unit is provided wherein the cylindrical fitting  46  and the elbow  18  are rigidly interconnected. In addition, one skilled in the art will appreciate that at least a portion of the overflow pipe  22  may also be rigidly interconnected to the elbow  18 . This configuration omits at least two joints in the system, which reduces the likelihood of leaks between components. One skilled in the art will also appreciate that a diaphragm may also be included in this embodiment of the present invention that is cut away to provide an opening  106  after testing is performed. 
         [0065]    Referring now to  FIGS. 10 and 11 , the drain assembly  110  for interconnecting the bathtub to the plumbing system of one embodiment of the present invention is shown. Here, similar to the overflow assembly, the drain assembly must be rigidly interconnected to the bathtub  6 . Thus embodiments of the present invention employ a drain assembly  110  wherein the tub floor  114  is sandwiched between a drain pipe flange  118  and a nut  122 . In operation, the drain pipe flange  118  includes a cylindrical portion  126  extending therefrom that includes a plurality of threads  130 . The drain pipe flange  118  is mated with a drain pipe  134  wherein the nut  122  is threaded on the drain pipe  134  prior to the marriage of the cylindrical portion  126  and the drain pipe  134 . The nut  122  is brought up to the threads  130  and tightened such that the tub floor is sandwiched between the drain pipe flange  118  and the nut  122  to secure the drain assembly to the drain port  10  of the bathtub  6 . To test the system a membrane  138  may be employed to block flow to the drain pipe  134 . After testing is completed, a cover  140  and drain closure  144 , which are common in the art, may be incorporated. 
         [0066]    Referring now to  FIGS. 12-15 , a method of facilitating interconnection of the overflow pipe  22  and the drain pipe  134  is provided.  FIG. 12  shows the prior art method of interconnecting drain pipes and flow pipes to a bathtub  6  wherein the rigid overflow pipe  22  is interconnected to the elbow  18  of the overflow assembly  2  and a rigid drain pipe  134  is horizontally interconnected from a connector associated with the drain port  10 . These two rigid pipes merge at a tee-connector  26  and into the main drain pipe of the plumbing system. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, interconnection of these rigid pipes is often difficult, especially when they are misaligned due to engineering errors or errors in interconnecting of the individual pipes to the tee-connectors  26 , for example. Often, the interconnection of the bathtub to the overflow pipe  22  and drain pipe  134  will cause frustration, delays and increased costs. 
         [0067]    Referring now to  FIGS. 13 and 14 , this problem has been addressed by an embodiment of the present invention that provides a flexible conduit  148  that leads from the elbow  18  of the overflow assembly  2  to the tee-connector  26 . It is envisioned that the flexible conduit  148  of this embodiment of the present invention be corrugated, however, be not susceptible to the drawbacks of using a corrugated tube. More specifically, as one skilled in the art will appreciate, the use of corrugated tubing, to allow for selective adjustments of tube bends is common. However, the use of a corrugated surface is not desirable and is often counter building codes as waste and fluid can gather in the corrugations provided in the inner diameter of the conduit, thereby providing a breeding ground for a mold and germs. Thus the flexible conduit  148  of embodiments of the present invention employ a coating that maintains flexibility but yet eliminates at least the corrugations in the inner surface of the flexible conduit  148 . 
         [0068]    Referring now specifically to  FIG. 15 , the flexible conduit  148  as described above may be employed in another way. That is,  FIG. 14  shows the flexible conduit  148  extending from the overflow assembly  2  into the tee-connector  26  that is associated directly with the drain port  10 . More often, it is desirable to provide a vertical overflow pipe  22  and a horizontal drain pipe  134 . These pipes may be made of the flexible conduit as described above and interconnected as traditionally done to the tee-connector  26  that is associated with the main drain pipe of the plumbing system. Because the flexible conduit  148  as provided is pliable, it is easily cut. Thus plumbers may use the flexible conduit  148  as they would use rigid conduit and selectively cut them to lengths to interconnect to traditionally located tee-connectors  26 . 
         [0069]    Referring now to  FIG. 16 , the flexible conduit  148  of one embodiment of the present invention is shown. Embodiments of the present invention employ a ribbed, bellowed, or coiled  152  (e.g., a helical coil) structure of rigid material that is apt to bend due to its coiled arrangement. In one embodiment the ribbed or coiled material is sufficiently rigid to retain a substantially circular cross section, thus providing a substantially uniform flow path for liquid transportation through the interior of such ribbed, bellowed, or coiled structure. In certain embodiments the ribbed/bellowed/coiled material employed is different that the material comprising the remainder of the conduit/pipe formed. For example, a more pliable material may be to coat the ribbed/bellowed/coiled material. 
         [0070]    To provide a flow path for fluid, the rigid material is coated with a flexible material  156  that is, preferably, substantially kink resistant. Thus between portions of the coil a web  160  will exist. In one embodiment such web material, when combined with the coiled substructure is not completely smooth. That is, in one embodiment, the flexible pipe comprises a coil  152  coated on an inside surface and an outside surface with a flexible material  156 , wherein a web  160  is formed between portions of the coated coil  152 . Further, in this embodiment the coated coil and the web  152  are aligned along a common axis  164  that bisects their respective thicknesses. In other embodiments, this web/coil combination provides a substantially smooth flowpath that is not apt to trap debris or water. In addition, the coil/flexible material combination is tightly bonded yet easy to cut, thereby facilitating customization of embodiments of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that instead of a coil  152 , a plurality of spaced rings may be employed that are also coated with a flexible material  156 . Other methods for making the structure as disclosed will be obvious to one skilled in the art. Certain embodiments of the present invention employ plastic (such as PVC) as the flexible material  156  and plastic (such as PVC) as the material for the coil  152 . However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other flexible materials such as rubber, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate, polypropylene, and nylons, to name a few, may be employed without departing from the scope of the invention. The coil system may be made of a metallic material, PVC, carbon fiber, reinforced nylons, hard durometer rubbers, to name a few, without departing from the scope of the invention. 
         [0071]    Referring now to  FIGS. 17-24 , a test cap  176  of one embodiment of the present invention is provided. As mentioned above, it is often desirous to plug the overflow port  14  and/or drain port  10  of the bathtub to facilitate testing. As also described above, this is most preferably done with a diaphragm that omits the need for a test cap  176 . However, if testing needs to be performed subsequent to removal of a diaphragm, a test cap  176  can be used. 
         [0072]    Referring now to  FIGS. 18 and 19 , a test cap  176  of one embodiment of the present invention is provided with a cylindrical body  180  having a flange  184  positioned thereon. The flange  184  has a face  188  that receives a diaphragm  54  and includes internally located threads  192  that receive the threads of the cylindrical fitting  42  of the overflow assembly  2 , similar to that described above. The test cap  176  of this nature can be used on overflow assemblies as described above that include a diaphragm  54  if further testing is required. After testing is completed, the diaphragm  54  of the test cap  176  of this embodiment of the present invention may be cut away to provide an opening  106  as described above. 
         [0073]    Referring now to  FIGS. 20 and 21  a test cap  176  of one embodiment of the present invention is shown. Here, a traditional plug having threads is used. However, this embodiment of the present invention also includes a diaphragm  54  positioned on one end that may be cut-away after testing is complete. 
         [0074]    Referring now to  FIGS. 22-24 , yet another version of the test cap  176  is provided with an inner surface  196  of malleable material that helps seal the interconnection of the test cap  176  and the overflow elbow  18 . That is, by interconnecting the test cap  176  onto the external threads of the overflow elbow  18 , the end of the overflow assembly  2  will deform the inner surface of the test cap  176  somewhat to create a seal. It is also envisioned that a test cap  176  of this embodiment of the present invention employs a diaphragm  54  that can be cut away if needed. 
         [0075]    Referring now to  FIGS. 25-27 , a protective drain cover  200  is provided. Here, the protective cover  200  having an opening  204  therethrough and a flange  208  is shown. 
         [0076]    Emanating from the flange  208  is the tubular wall  212  having a groove  216  positioned therearound. The groove  216  is adapted to receive at least one seal  220 . The protective cover  200  is adapted to be associated with a strainer  224  of the drain assembly, thereby positioning the flange  208  of the protective cover  200  over the flange  118  of the strainer  224 . In addition, the protective cover  200  includes an edge  112  that slightly curves downwardly to protect an edge of the strainer  224 . As described above, the strainers  224  are often made of a brass or chrome which is easily damaged. Thus in operation, the tubular wall  212  of the drain cover  200  feeds into an opening of the strainer  224 . The seals  220  are then disposed between the outer surface of the tubular wall  212  and the inner surface of the strainer  224 . Thus the drain assembly  110  is protected during construction. After construction is completed, the protective cover  200  is removed and the drain assembly  110  remains within the bathtub  6 . 
         [0077]    As disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,503,083, numeral  200  may also be viewed as a waste water insert. Insert  200  has a flange  208  with the periphery thereof terminating in a downwardly extending lip  112 . As shown in  FIGS. 26 and 27 , the lip  112  extends downwardly and over the outer perimeter of the strainer flange  118 . The lip  112  engages the tub floor  114  (see  FIG. 11 ) when installed. 
         [0078]    Insert  200  has a downwardly extending wall  212  which surrounds a center opening  204 . The diameter of wall  212  is less than the diameter of the cylindrical wall of strainer  224  so that a space exists between the two walls. The lip  112  on the outer perimeter of the flange  208  of insert  200  centers the cylindrical wall  212  within the cylindrical wall of strainer. In one embodiment, the waste water insert  200  includes a wall  212  with a cylindrical first portion  228  and a cylindrical second portion  232  with a conical portion  236  therebetween. The diameter of the cylindrical first portion  228  is greater than the diameter of the cylindrical second portion  232  such that the space between the insert and the strainer is reduced adjacent to the cylindrical first portion  228 . 
         [0079]    The wall  212  extends downwardly and has a first groove  216  in the lower end. The groove  216  receives a resilient ring member  220  that engages the cylindrical wall  212  of the strainer  224  to hold the insert  200  in place. In one embodiment, the resilient ring member  220  is an O-ring. Alternatively, the waste water insert  200 , as shown in  FIG. 26 , has a second groove in spaced relation to the first groove  216  with a raised surface therebetween. The second groove receives a second resilient ring member  220  that also engages the cylindrical wall  212  of strainer  200 . Additional grooves and rings may be added as desired. 
         [0080]    The insert is installed by inserting the cylindrical wall  212  of the insert  200  into the opening  10  of the strainer  224  until the insert is in place. At this point the resilient ring or rings of the insert will engage the cylindrical wall of the strainer  224  to hold the insert  200  in place. No tools are required and the inserts are quickly, easily, and securely installed to achieve their required purpose. 
         [0081]    While various embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and alterations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is to be expressly understood that such modifications and alterations are within the scope and spirit of the present invention, as set forth in the following claims.