FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a valve device for the prevention of backflow in a flow channel of a sewer and for preventing rodents for passing upstream said flow channel.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Preventing backflow of water, and in particular, of wastewater, is one of the most challenging demands of drainage systems of buildings, houses, etc. It is known to install anti-flood valves in, for example, a sewer or drain pipe extending from a house or any other building to a street sewer pipe or the like, so that said valve automatically closes when sewage, water, etc. flows back from the street sewer pipe towards the house or building, thereby preventing backflow from the sewer pipe into the house or building, and thereby protecting the basement or other lower portions of the house or building from becoming flooded. WO 2016/128001 A1 discloses a double valve device for the prevention of black flow of sewage to a house or similar. The double valve device disclosed in WO 2016/128001 A1 comprises a first elongate hollow member having a first flap valve pivotally between a closed state and an open state of a first valve opening of the first elongate hollow member and a second elongate hollow member having a second flap valve pivotally closed between a closed state and an open state of a second valve opening of the second elongate hollow member, wherein the second valve opening faces the first valve opening.

Although the double valve device disclosed in WO 2016/128001 A1 effectively prevents the back flow of sewage to a house or similar, it does not properly prevent the passage of rats and similar animals upstream to the house or building from the street sewer pipe. The presence of rats or other rodents is usually undesired, since they are usually unpleasant, but can also damage elements of the house, i.e., the sewer or drain pipe, spread diseases like hantavirus, salmonella, rat- bite fever, etc. Therefore, it is advisable to provide barriers that prevent rats or similar animals from passing upstream the sewer pipe and reaching the house, building, etc. Known rat barriers for being used in sewage pipes might be useful to prevent rats from reaching the house, but may also hinder the downstream flow of the sewage and even clog the sewage pipe. Moreover, known rat barriers for being used in sewage pipes do not prevent the backflow of sewage and/or drainage water. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention solves many of the problems of the prior art anti flood valves and rat barriers. The result is a valve device that prevents the backflow of sewage and/or water in a flow channel of a sewer and prevents rodents from passing upstream said flow channel of the sewer.

The present invention has several advantages over the prior art and in particular the Valve device for the prevention of backflow in a sewer well, and in particular a plastic sewer well, and uniquely incorporated rodent barrier parts in the same device of the present invention makes it possible to work in a sewer well in particular a plastic sewer well without significant loss of water flow velocity during operation with high waters.

The present inventors have discovered that a traditional rat barrier when mounted in a concrete channel sewer pipe downstream of a Valve device for the prevention of backflow leads to congestion of the sewer well and reduces functionality of a valve device for the prevention of backflow in a sewer well. Here it is the rodents that passes through the sewer, and other waste materials such as branches, leaves, dirt, rocks that congests the sewer well. The traditional rodent, such as rat, barrier is located in a concrete sewer which reduces water velocity, leading to congestion with branches, leaves, dirt, rocks etc.

To avoid this the device of the present invention combining in a unique way the Valve device for the prevention of backflow and a rodent barrier for sewer wells, provides a solution that reduces the problematic congestion seen in sewer wells, in particular concrete sewer wells. If congestion is allowed to happen this will severely damage the primary function of the valve device for the prevention of backflow, and risk of flooding is high, especially during high water seasons with heavy rain or due to heavy water for other reasons.

The Valve device for the prevention of backflow in a sewer well and uniquely incorporated rodent barrier parts in the same device of the present invention secures that the rodent barrier is located in a well having a smooth surface, which again increases the functionality of the rodent barriers. The rodent barrier part of the present invention prevents other waste materials such as branches, leaves, dirt, rocks etc in entering and destroying the functionality of the present invention.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a valve device for the prevention of backflow in a flow channel of a sewer and for preventing rodents from passing upstream said flow channel, said valve device comprising a first body for being mounted at least partially within the flow channel of the sewer, said first body defining a first channel having an inlet and an outlet, said first body comprising at least one flap valve pivotally movable between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the open position sewage and/or water is able to flow through said first channel and in the closed position said sewage and/or water is prevented to flow through said first channel, wherein said first body further comprises a first and a second pivotally movable shutter arranged downstream of the at least one flap valve, the first and second pivotally movable shutters arranged facing each other and being spaced apart at a distance for preventing rodents from passing through said shutters, said first and second pivotally movable shutters being configured to allow sewage and/or water to flow in a downstream direction of the flow channel of the sewer.

Due to the arrangement of the at least two movable shutters, rodents cannot pass through the valve device in an upstream direction and reach the house, building, etc. Although it is not easy, a rat or similar animal might be able to lift the first movable shutter and try to sneak underneath it but will not be able to lift both shutters and sneak underneath both of them. In addition, the rodent barrier part of the present invention, that is, the first and the second pivotally movable shutter, prevents other waste materials such as branches, leaves, dirt, rocks etc in entering and destroying the functionality of the present invention. This was not possible without the shutters.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a valve device for the prevention of backflow in a flow channel of a sewer and for preventing clogging material from leading to malfunctioning of the valve device, said valve device comprising a first body for being mounted at least partially within the flow channel of the sewer, said first body defining a first channel having an inlet and an outlet, said first body comprising at least one flap valve pivotally movable between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the open position sewage, water or sewage and water, is able to flow through said first channel and in the closed position said sewage and/or water is prevented to flow through said first channel, characterised in that said first body further comprises a first and a second pivotally movable shutter arranged downstream of the at least one flap valve, the first and second pivotally movable shutters arranged facing each other and being spaced apart at a distance for preventing clogging material, such as branches, leaves, dirt, rocks etc, from passing through said shutters, said first and second pivotally movable shutters being configured to allow sewage and/or water to flow in a downstream direction of the flow channel of the sewer.

In an embodiment, each movable shutter has a profile being any one of: a smooth profile, a serrated profile, a toothed profile, a notched profile or a pointy profile. A serrated, toothed, notched or pointy profile, among others, makes it even more difficult to rodents to try to sneak underneath the first movable shutter since such a profile will hurt them when trying to lift the movable shutters and pass underneath them. Moreover, such a serrated, toothed, etc. profile can also trap a rodent trying to move in an upstream direction through the valve device of the present invention.

In a further embodiment, the shutters are arranged such that there is a gap between their profiles and the first body, and in particular, between their outermost part of their profile and the inner part of the first body. Said gap could also be named as void or void gap. Such a gap eases the flow of sewage or water. Preferably, said gap ranges from 3 to 5 mm. In such a way, the gap is large enough to let sewage or water flow through the pivotally movable shutters but small enough to impede rodents to sneak underneath the movable shutters.

In a still further embodiment, the first and second pivotally movable shutters are arranged substantially parallel one another. In embodiments having more than two pivotally movable shutters, preferably, two shutters are parallel one another, and more preferably, all shutters are parallel one another. Preferably, the pivotally movable shutters are spaced apart at a distance of from 20,0 to 40,0 mm. More preferably, the pivotally movable shutters are spaced apart at a distance of from 25,0 to 35, 0 mm. In a still further embodiment, the first and the second pivotally movable shutters are angled towards a downstream direction of the flow channel. Such an arrangement increases the difficulty for rodents to sneak upstream the pivotally movable shutters.

In a still further embodiment, each movable shutter defines a first, a second and a third segment, each segment being inclined towards a downstream direction of the flow channel. Preferably, the angles defined by the first and the second segment and by the second and third segment are obtuse.

In a still further embodiment, in a resting position of the movable shutters, the first, second and third segments of the first movable shutter are arranged substantially parallel to the first, second and third segments, respectively, of the second movable shutter.

In a still further embodiment, the first body has a sloped end at its inlet so that so that the travel of the at least one flap valve is reduced in order to open and/or close the first channel. Preferably, said sloped end of the first body defines an angle of between 10° - 40° in relation to a longitudinal axis of the first body, which is coincident with the longitudinal axis of the valve device.

In a further embodiment at the inlet of the first body a circumference edge defines the inlet at which inlet the edge of the circumference of the first body is provided with a flow guiding means so as to make the flow of water smoother through the first body. In a still further embodiment at the inlet of the second body a circumference edge defines the inlet at which inlet the edge of the circumference of the second body is provided with a flow guiding means so as to make the flow of water smoother through the second body. Typically, the flow guiding means are wedge shaped.

In a still further embodiment, the valve device comprises a first float operatively connected to the at least one flap valve of the first body to open and/or close the first channel in response to changes in liquid flow or liquid level in the flow channel and/or the sewer.

In a still further embodiment, when the first float is in a lowered position the associated flap valve of the first body is in its open position and when the first float is in a raised position the associated flap valve of the first body is in its closed position.

In a still further embodiment, the valve device further comprises a sleeve having a first and a second part, the first part being configured to engage with the first body and the second part being configured for being placed in a concrete flow channel of a sewer.

In a still further embodiment, the first part of the sleeve has a diameter different than the one of the second part. Alternatively, the first part and the second part of the sleeve have the same diameter. In a still further embodiment, the first part of the sleeve comprises a cut-out.

In a still further embodiment, the first body of the valve device comprises two flap valves.

In a still further embodiment, the valve device further comprises a second body for being mounted at least partially within the flow channel of the sewer and opposite the first body, said second body defining a second channel having an inlet and an outlet, the valve device further comprising an actuator operatively connected to the first and second bodies to allow adjusting the distance between the first body and the second body upon actuation. In embodiments having two bodies, the actuator eases the installation of the valve device to the sewer. It also eases the removal of the valve device.

In a still further embodiment, the second body further comprises at least one flap valve pivotally movable between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the open position sewage and/or water is able to flow through said second channel and in the closed position said sewage and/or water is prevented to flow through said second channel.

In a still further embodiment, the valve device comprises a second float operatively connected to the at least one flap valve of the second body to open and/or close the second channel in response to changes in liquid flow or liquid level in the flow channel and/or the sewer.

In a still further embodiment, when the second float is in a lowered position the associated flap valve of the second body is in its open position and when the second float is in a raised position the associated flap valve of the second body is in its closed position.

In a still further embodiment, the valve device further comprises a sleeve having a first and a second part, the first part being configured to engage with the second body and the second part being configured for being placed in a concrete flow channel of a sewer.

In a still further embodiment, the actuator comprises one or more of a toggle mechanism, a spindle, an electric motor, a spring mechanism, a pneumatic motor or a hydraulic motor.

In a still further embodiment, the actuator is operatively connected to the first and second body by means of a slide member, wherein the slide member has: a bar member, a first coupling member associated with the first body, and a second coupling member associated with the second body, and wherein at least one of the first coupling member and the second coupling member are slidably mounted to the bar member.

In a still further embodiment, the second body has a sloped end at its outlet so that the travel of the at least one flap valve is reduced in order to open and/or close the second channel. Preferably, said sloped end of the second body defines an angle of between 30° - 60° in relation to a longitudinal axis of the second body, which is coincident with the longitudinal axis of the valve device. More preferably, said angle is about 45°.

In a still further embodiment, the valve device further comprises a sensor for monitoring sewage and/or water flow.

In a still further embodiment, said sensor for monitoring sewage and/or water flow comprises a flow meter.

In a still further embodiment, said sensor for monitoring sewage and/or water flow comprises a proximity sensor configured to detect the at least one flap valve reaching its closed or open position. Preferably, said sensor is a Reed sensor.

In a still further embodiment, the valve device comprises a switch for the sensor for monitoring sewage and/or water flow.

In a still further embodiment, the valve device comprises a sensor for monitoring rodents activity.

In a still further embodiment, the valve device comprises a switch for the sensor for monitoring rodents activity.

Further objects and advantages of the present invention will appear from the following description, and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a valve device according to the present invention.

Figure 2 is a cross-section view of the embodiment of a valve device shown in Figure 1.

Figure 3 is a detail view of the cross-section shown in Figure 2.

Figure 4 is a front view of the embodiment of a valve device shown in Figure 1.

Figure 5 is a perspective view of a sleeve of an embodiment of a valve device according to the present invention. Figure 6 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a valve device according to the present invention having a first and a second body.

Figure 7 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a valve device according to the present invention having a first body.

Figure 8 is a schematic view of the embodiment of a valve device shown in Figure 7 placed in a concrete sewer pipe.

Figure 9 is a schematic view of the embodiment of a valve device shown in Figure 6 placed in a sewer having a concrete sewer pipe.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

There are many advantages of the present invention in a broad context as well as even more advantageous aspects of the embodiments.

The terms “inlet” and “outlet” as used herein have been defined based on the flow of sewage and/or water from the house or building to the sewer network. However, in case of backflow, water and/or sewage will try to enter the valve device through the outlet and exit the valve device trough the inlet. The term “downstream direction” as used herein has been defined based on the flow of sewage and/or water from the house or building to the sewer network. The term “upstream direction” as used herein is defined as opposite to the “downstream direction.”

The valve device according to the present invention will now be described in more detail with regard to the accompanying figures 1-9. The figures show different ways of implementing the present invention and are not to be construed as being limiting the present invention in any way.

The material to be used can be stainless steel, which is corrosion resistant, is very durable and has good formability and weldability. However, other suitable materials can be used. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a valve device (1) according to the present invention having a first (10) and a second (20) body that are operatively interconnected by an actuator (70). Among other functions, said actuator (70) can adjust the distance between the first body (10) and the second body (20) upon actuation. This is particularly useful when installing, or removing, a valve device (1) having a first (10) and a second (20) body in the flow channel of a sewer. In the embodiment shown, the actuator (70) comprises a toggle mechanism.

In the exemplary embodiment shown the first movable shutter (30) protrudes from the first body (10) through its second end or outlet (14). Said first movable shutter (30) is attached to the first body (10) by means of a support (33). The first body (10) comprises a circular projection (12) on its outer side and close to its outlet (14) that acts as a stop and limits the movement of the first body (10) when is inserted into a sewer pipe or a sleeve (see Figures 6 to 9). The second body (20) comprises a similar projection (22) close to its inlet (23) (see Figure 2) that serves for a similar purpose. The circular projections (12, 22) can be made of a hard material, such as metal, or of a softer material, such as rubber, plastic, etc.

The second body (20) comprises a flap valve (21) that opens or closes a second channel defined by said second body (20) so that sewage and/or water is able to flow through it. In Figure 1 the flap valve (21) is shown in its closed position. In the embodiment shown, said flap valve (21) is arranged at the outlet (24) (see Figure 2) of the second body (21). The first body (10) also comprises a flap valve (11) (see Figure 2), but it is hidden due to the perspective used in Figure 1. Said flap valve (11) opens or closes a first channel defined by said first body (10) so that sewage and/or water is able to flow through it.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 1, the valve device (1) comprises at its upper part a first (40) and a second (50) float, each one being located substantially opposite one another. The first float (40) is operatively connected to the flap valve (11) of the first body (10) (see Figure 2) in order to open and/or close the first channel in response to changes in liquid flow or liquid level in the flow channel and/or sewer in which the valve device (1) is installed. Similarly, the second float (50) is operatively connected to the flap valve (21) of the second body (20) in order to open and/or close the second channel in response to changes in liquid flow or liquid level in the flow channel and/or sewer in which the valve device (1) is installed. Although the use of floats provides a simple, reliable and cost-effective solution, the flap valves (11, 21) can also be actuated by, for example, an electric motor, or any other suitable means.

In Figure 1 can also be seen the sensor (60) for monitoring sewage and/or water flow which, in the embodiment shown, is configured to detect the flap valve (21) of the second body (20) reaching its closed position (see Figure 2). However, in other embodiments such a sensor (60) may be configured to detect the flap valve reaching its open position. Moreover, in other embodiments, the sensor (60) for monitoring sewage and/or water flow may be configured to detect the flap valve (21) reaching both its closed and its open position. In this exemplary embodiment, the sensor (60) for monitoring sewage and/or water flow is a Reed sensor. However, other types of suitable sensors can be used. Although in this embodiment the sensor (60) only monitors the flap valve (21), in other embodiments, the valve device (1) can comprise a similar sensor for each flap valve (11, 21). The valve device (1) can comprise such a sensor (60) irrespective of whether the valve device (1) comprises only a first body (10) or comprises a first (10) and a second (20) body. A valve device according to the present invention may further comprise a switch for the sensor (60) for monitoring sewage and/or water flow.

A valve device according to the present invention may further comprise a sensor for monitoring rodents activity. Such sensor has not been depicted in the figures of the present document. In the embodiment shown, the first body (10) and second body (20) are arranged opposite one another, and in particular, opposite one another in such a way that the longitudinal axis defined by each body (10, 20) coincide, so that a single longitudinal axis of the valve device (1) is defined.

Figure 2 shows a cross-section view of the embodiment of a valve device shown in Figure 1. This cross-section view shows most of the elements that in Figure 2 where hidden due to the perspective used. In this view, the flap valve (11) of the first body (10) is shown in its open position, whereas the flap valve (21) of the second body (20) is shown in its closed position, in particular, the flap valve (21) of the second body (20) is depicted closing the second end or outlet (24) of the second body (20) and the flap valve (11) of the first body (10) is depicted in a position wherein the first end or inlet (13) of the first body (10) is open.

In the second body (20), opposite to its second end or outlet (24) is located its first end or inlet (23) of said second body (20). Said inlet (23) is proximal to the house or building in which sewer the valve device (1) is installed. In the first body (10), opposite to its first end or inlet (13) is located its second end or outlet (14) of said first body (10). Said outlet (14) is proximal to the sewer network (see Figure 6).

The circular projections (12, 22) can be seen near its respective distal ends of the valve device (1) acting as a stop of the respective body (10, 20) when it is inserted into a sewer pipe or a sleeve (see Figures 6 and 9).

Close to the second end or outlet (14) of the first body (10), in this exemplary embodiment, the valve device (1) comprises a first (30) and a second (30’) movable shutter arranged downstream the flap valve (11). The first (30) and a second (30’) movable shutters are arranged facing each other. Both shutters (30, 30’) are pivotally attached to the first body (10) via a support (33). In this embodiment, the movable shutters (30, 30’) are arranged in a way such that the first movable shutter (30) protrudes from the first body (10) through its second end or outlet (24). However, in other embodiments of the present invention, both movable shutters (30, 30’) may be located within the first body (10), i.e. may not protrude from it.

Both movable shutters (30, 30’) are spaced apart at a distance that prevents rodents from passing through them. Even if a rodent is able to partly sneak underneath the first pivotally movable shutter (30), the rodent will not be able to sneak underneath the second pivotally movable shutter (30’) since part of the rodent will still be retained by the first pivotally movable shutter (30) when facing the second (30’) one. A rodent will not be able to lift both movable shutters (30, 30’) and sneak underneath them to pass upstream the valve device (1).

The cross-section view of Figure 2 shows that, in the exemplary embodiment shown, the first end or inlet (13) of the first body (10) is sloped. Such a sloped inlet (13) reduces the travel of the flap valve (11) necessary to open and/or close said inlet (13) and eases the guidance of the flap valve (11) inside the first body (10) when sewage and/or water is being discharged through the valve device (1). Similarly, in the exemplary embodiment shown, the second end or outlet (24) of the second body (20) is sloped, so that the travel of the flap valve (21) necessary to open and/or close said outlet (24) is reduced.

Preferably, the sloped second end or outlet (24) of the second body (20) has an angle of about 30° - 60° in relation to a longitudinal axis of the sewer or of the valve device (1). In the exemplary embodiment shown, said angle is about 45°. Since the flap valve (11) can pivot inside the first body (10) similar sloping of the sloped first end or inlet (13) may not be needed, although some sloping is preferred. The sloped first end or inlet (13) can have a slope of about 10° - 40° in relation to a longitudinal axis of the sewer or of the valve device (1).

Although the exemplary embodiment shown comprises a sloped first end or inlet (13) and a sloped second end or outlet (24), other embodiments may only have one sloped end or even none. A non sloped end is considered to be the one being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the valve device (1).

Furthermore, in an embodiment, at the inlet (13) of the first body (10) a circumference edge defines the inlet (13) at which inlet the edge of the circumference of the body (10) is provided with a flow guiding means so as to make the flow of water smoother through the body (10). A similar flow guiding means can be provided at the inlet edge of the second body (20). Such a flow guiding means is typically wedge shaped.

As stated above, the actuator (70) can adjust the distance between the first body (10) and the second body (20), which is particularly useful when installing or removing the valve device (1) in/from a sewer. In particular, when the valve device (1) is to be installed, the distance between the first body (10) and the second body (20) should be reduced until the total length of the valve device is such that it can be inserted into the sewer. Said position can be defined as a non-actuated position. Once the valve device (1) is in the sewer, it should be lowered until the depth of use is reached. Next, the first body (10) and the second body (20) should be aligned with the correspondent sewer pipe. Once the valve device (1) is correctly placed and aligned, the actuator (70) is actuated and the distance between the first body (10) and the second body (20) increases until they are inserted into their respective sewer pipes.

If due to maintenance or any other reason the valve device (1) needs to be removed from the sewer, the above mentioned process is reversed.

More information of the installation of a valve device having a first body and a second body can be derived from WO 2016/128001 Al. The installation of a valve device according to the present invention having a single body (see Figures 7 and 8) is easier, since the body, or the sleeve, can be directly inserted into the appropriate sewer pipe.

Figure 3 shows a detail view of the cross-section shown in Figure 2, and in particular, a detail view of the distal end of the first body (1) of the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 1. This detail view clearly shows how the pivotally movable shutters (30, 30’) are arranged in this exemplary embodiment. In particular, a support (33) is attached to the upper part of the inside of the first body (10). Said support (33) comprises a pair of pivot joints (32, 32’), each one being configured to pivotally attach the respective movable shutter (30, 30’) to the support (33) and, consequently, to the first body (10). In this embodiment, the movable shutters (30, 30’) are not directly attached to the pivot joints (32, 32’). Instead, each movable shutter (30, 30’) is rigidly attached to a respective plate (31, 3G) which is pivotally attached to the respective pivot joint (32, 32’). However, in other embodiments, the pivotally movable shutters (30, 30’) can be directly attached to their respective joints (32, 32’), i.e. without any intermediate element such as the plates

(31, 31’)· The movable shutters (30, 30’) are arranged substantially parallel one another and angled towards a downstream direction of the flow channel, i.e. towards the second end or outlet (24) of the first body (10).

In the embodiment shown, each pivotally movable shutter (30, 30’) defines a first (30A, 30A’), a second (30B, 30B’) and a third segment (30C, 30C’), each segment (30A, 30B, 30C) of the first pivotally movable shutter (30) being substantially parallel with the correspondent segment (30A’, 30B’, 30C’) of the second pivotally movable shutter (30’). In this exemplary embodiment, the second segments (30B, 30B’) are spaced apart at a distance of 30,6 mm. However, in other embodiments said distance may range between 20,0 and 40,0 mm, and preferably, between 25,0 and 35,0 mm. Some embodiments might also be outside of the aforementioned ranges.

As can be seen, in the embodiment shown, the angles defined by the first (30A, 30A’) and second segments (30B, 30B’), and by the second (30B, 30B’) and third segments (30C, 30C’) are obtuse. In other embodiments, the movable shutters (30, 30’) may define a different number of segments, as for example, one, two, four, etc.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, the distal end of the second movable shutter (30’) is at a distance of 18,2 mm of the second end or outlet (14) of the first body. However, in other embodiments said distance may range between 5,0 and 100,0 mm, and preferably, between 10 and 50 mm. Some embodiments might also be outside of the aforementioned ranges.

This detail view also shows how, in this exemplary embodiment, there is a gap (35) between the lowest part of the second pivotally movable shutter (30’) and the bottom of the inner wall of the first body (10). Said gap may not be restricted to the lower part of the movable shutters (30, 30’), but also extend along their perimeter (see Figure 4). Said gap (35) could also be named as void or void gap. In the exemplary embodiment shown, said gap (35) measures 3,7 mm. However, in other embodiments said gap (35) may range between 2,0 and 7,0 mm, and preferably, between 3,0 and 5,0 mm. Some embodiments might also be outside of the aforementioned ranges.

Figure 4 shows a front view of the embodiment of a valve device shown in Figure 1. This view clearly shows the gap (35) between the pivotally movable shutters (30, 30’) and the inner wall of the first body (10). This gap (35), among other benefits, eases the flow of water and/or sewage, especially when the flow rate of sewage and/or water is low. When the flow rate of sewage and/or water flowing through the valve device (1) in a downstream direction increases, the flow of sewage and/or water pushes the pivotally movable shutters (30, 30’) so that the gap (35) between them and the first body (10) increases and the water and/or sewage is able to easily flow through the valve device (1). If the gap (35) increases due to the flow of sewage and/or water, there is no risk of rodents passing upstream the valve device (1) since the flow of sewage and/or water will sweep along them. When the flow rate decreases, the gap (35) is also gradually reduced until the pivotally movable shutters (30, 30’) reach their closed or rest position, as shown in Figures 1-4, and the gap (35) reaches its minimum value. Said gap (35) could also be named as void or void gap.

In the embodiment shown, the pivotally movable shutters (30, 30’) are solid. Although solid shutters (30, 30’) are preferred, in other embodiments said pivotally movable shutters (30, 30’) may comprise orifices, or even can be made of a grille. It should be beard in mine that the larger or greater number of orifices on the shutters (30, 30’), the lesser the resistance of the shutters (30, 30’) and the easier will be for rodents to try to break them. However, the presence of orifices on the shutters (30, 30’) has the benefit of easing the flow of water and/or sewage.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, each pivotally movable shutter (30, 30’) comprises a toothed profile (34), and in particular, comprises a toothed profile (34) on its lower half. However, in other embodiments said profile (34) may be smooth, serrated, notched, pointy, etc. The presence of toothed or similar profiles (34) on the pivotally movable shutters (30, 30’) serves to harm and trap any rodent that tries to sneak through the gap (35) between the movable shutters (30, 30’) and the first body (10).

At the upper part of the valve device (1) shown in Figure 4 can be seen the first (40) and second float (50), located at opposite sides of the actuator (70), which in this exemplary embodiment, is located above the first body (10) and, consequently, is also located above the second body (20), which as described before, is facing the first body (10). The sensor (60) for monitoring sewage and/or water flow can be seen on top of the actuator (70).

Figure 5 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a sleeve for a valve device according to the present invention. The use of such a sleeve (80) is particularly advantageous when the valve device is to be installed in a sewer pipe made of concrete or similar materials. Although it can also be used, a sleeve (80) is not particularly advantageous when the sewer pipe is made of plastic, iron or any similar material. The sleeve (80) shown comprises a first part (80A) configured to engage with the first body (10) of a valve device (1) and a second part (80B) being configured for being placed or inserted into a pipe or flow channel of a sewer, and preferably, in a concrete pipe of a sewer.

A sleeve (80) may be installed on the first body (10), on the second body (20) or on both, depending on the materials and properties of the sewer wherein the valve device (1) is to be installed. The sleeve (80) of the exemplary embodiment shown comprises a cut-out (81), which in this case is in the first part (80A) of the sleeve (80). However, other embodiments may lack of a cut-out (81).

Figure 6 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a valve device according to the present invention having a first and a second body. The valve device schematically illustrated in Figure 6 is similar to the one shown in Figures 1-5. The valve device is installed in a sewer (1000) having an upstream branch or pipe (1001) to a house or building (1010) and a downstream branch or pipe (1002) to a sewer network (1020).

When the water level in the sewer (1000) raises due to heavy rain, flooding or any other reason, the floats (40, 50) rise, as indicated by arrows (FI, F2), and thereby the flap valves (11, 21), which are operatively connected to the floats (40, 50) reach their closed position, so that backflow of sewage and/or water from the sewer network (1020) and/or the sewer (1000) to the house or building (1010) is prevented. This is illustrated with the crossed arrows (LI, L2).

In the illustrated situation, the pivotally movable shutters (30, 30’) do not act, as rodents are not able to dive in an inundated downstream branch or pipe (1002) of the sewer (1000).

Once the water level in the sewer (1000) sinks, the floats (40, 50) move closer to the bottom of the sewer (1000) and the flap valves (11, 21) start to open, thereby allowing downstream flow of the water and/or sewage to the sewer network (1020).

The operation of the flap valves (11, 21) in an embodiment having two bodies (10, 20) can be further understood by reading WO 2016/128001 Al.

Figure 7 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a valve device according to the present invention having a first body. Contrary to the embodiments shown in Figures 1-6 which comprise two bodies (10, 20), the valve device (G) of this exemplary embodiment has only one body (10’). The first body (10’) of the valve device (G) comprises two pivotally movable shutters (30, 30’) for preventing rodents for passing upstream said first body (10’) and two flap valves (11, 1G) for the prevention of backflow in the sewer (1000), and in particular, for preventing sewage and/or water to flow from the sewer network to the house or building via the downstream branch or pipe (1002) of the sewer (1000). Similarly to the embodiments shown in Figures 1-6, each flap valve (11, IF) is operatively connected to a respective float, although their representation has been omitted in Figure 7 in order to simplify the schematic view. In other embodiments of a valve device according to the present invention having a single body, all flap valves can be operatively connected to a single float.

Figure 8 shows a schematic view of the embodiment of a valve device shown in Figure 7 placed in a concrete sewer pipe. As stated above, in order to achieve optimal results, when placing a valve device of the present invention in a concrete sewer pipe, which usually is rough and porous, a sleeve should be used. In the case shown in Figure 8, a sleeve (80’) is inserted into a concrete sewer pipe (1002’), and more precisely, the second part (80B’) of the sleeve (80’) is inserted into the concrete sewer pipe (1002’). The first part (80A’) of the sleeve (80’) is engaged with the second end or outlet of the first body (10’) of the valve device (G). Said first body (10’) may be provided with a circular projection, similar to the ones of the valve device (1) shown in Figures 1-4, that acts as a stop and limits the insertion of the valve device (G) into the first part (80A’) of the sleeve (80’).

The sleeve (80’) is preferably made of a material that can absorb the roughness of the concrete, such as, for example, plastic.

Contrary to the sleeve (80) shown in Figure 5, the sleeve (80’) shown in Figure 8 lacks of a cut-out.

Figure 9 shows a schematic view of the embodiment of a valve device shown in Figure 6 placed in a sewer having a concrete sewer pipe. The sewer (1000) wherein the valve device shown is installed comprises a downstream pipe (1002’) made of concrete, whereas the upstream pipe (1001) is made of metal. That is the reason why only the first body (10) is installed using a sleeve (80”). In cases where both the upstream pipe (1001) and the downstream pipe (1002’) are made of concrete, a sleeve should preferably be used with both the first (10) and the second (20) bodies. If the upstream pipe (1001) had been made of concrete instead of the downstream pipe (1002’), a sleeve (80’) should have been used with the second body (20) instead of the first (10) one.

As can be derived from the drawing, the sleeve (80”) shown in Figure 9 has a substantially constant diameter throughout its entire length. All references, including publications, patent applications and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference was individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and was set forth in its entirety herein.

All headings and sub-headings are used herein for convenience only and should not be construed as limiting the invention in any way.

Any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a short method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless other-wise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. Unless otherwise stated, all exact values provided herein are representative of corresponding approximate values ( e.g ., all exact exemplary values provided with respect to a particular factor or measurement can be considered to also provide a corresponding approximate measurement, modified by "about", where appropriate).

All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

The terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents as used in the context of de scribing the invention are to be construed to insert both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. Thus, “a” and “an” and “the” may mean at least one, or one or more.

The term “and/or” as used herein is intended to mean both alternatives as well as each of the alternatives individually. For instance, expression “xxx and/or yyy” means “the xxx and yyy; the xxx; or the yyy”, all three alternatives are subject to individual embodiments. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise indicated. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any element is essential to the practice of the invention unless as much is explicitly stated. The citation and incorporation of patent documents herein is done for convenience only and does not reflect any view of the validity, patentability and/or enforceability of such patent documents.

The description herein of any aspect or embodiment of the invention using terms such as “comprising”, “having”, “including” or “containing” with reference to an element or elements is intended to provide support for a similar aspect or embodiment of the invention that “consists of’, “consists essentially of’, or “substantially comprises” that particular element or elements, unless otherwise stated or clearly contradicted by context ( e.g ., a composition described herein as comprising a particular element should be understood as also describing a composition consisting of that element, unless otherwise stated or clearly contradicted by context).

This invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter re-cited in the aspects or claims presented herein to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description may, both separately and in any combination thereof, be material for realizing the invention in diverse forms thereof.