Downpipe Runner Device

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/726,410, which was filed on Nov. 29, 2024, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of roof drainage systems. More specifically, the present invention relates to a downpipe runner device that manages rainwater on roofs by directing rainwater from an upper rooftop downspout to a lower rooftop eavestrough via a low-profile, aesthetically pleasing device. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.

BACKGROUND

Standing water on rooftops is a persistent problem that can cause substantial structural damage over time. Water that remains on the surface of a roof can weaken materials, leading to leaks, mold growth, and eventual structural compromise. These issues are especially problematic in regions with heavy rainfall or poor drainage systems, where water accumulates more rapidly than it can be drained. Homeowners and building managers often attempt to mitigate this risk by installing traditional downpipes to channel water away from the roof. However, these pipes tend to be bulky and visually disruptive, detracting from the architectural aesthetic of the building. Additionally, traditional solutions are prone to inefficiencies, such as clogging, overflow, and difficulty in redirecting water along complex roof geometries. Repairing water damage exacerbated by insufficient drainage is expensive and requires extensive structural rehabilitation, making it a time-consuming and invasive process. Existing solutions fail to provide a seamless integration of effective water management and aesthetic appeal, leaving a significant gap in the market for a versatile, durable, and visually pleasing alternative.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a downpipe runner device that provides a low-profile, visually appealing alternative to traditional downpipes. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a downpipe runner device that efficiently channels rainwater from the roof to an eavestrough, minimizing risks of overflow or standing water. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a downpipe runner device that is durable, easy to install, and adaptable to various roof configurations while protecting the roof structure from water damage.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a downpipe runner device. The device is designed to efficiently manage rainwater on roofs by directing water from an upper rooftop downspout to a lower rooftop eavestrough while offering an aesthetically integrated alternative to traditional downpipes. The device comprises a corrosion-resistant body featuring at least one channel with raised edges to guide water flow, treated with a hydrophobic coating for debris reduction and optimized with an inclined geometry to prevent standing water. The device includes UV-resistant finishes and customizable textures or colors to blend with various architectural styles. The device is securely mounted using pre-drilled openings and fasteners, with optional connectors for extended lengths.

In this manner, the downpipe runner device of the present invention accomplishes all the foregoing objectives and provides a device that replaces traditional downpipes with a low-profile, aesthetically pleasing design. More specifically, the device efficiently channels rainwater from rooftop downspouts to eavestroughs through hydrophobic-coated channels, ensuring smooth water flow while minimizing debris buildup. Its construction from corrosion-resistant materials, combined with UV-protective finishes, ensures long-lasting durability and resistance to environmental wear. The device's modular design allows for easy installation using neoprene screws and interlocking connectors, enabling secure attachment and adaptability to varying roof configurations. By protecting shingles from excessive water exposure and integrating visually with the roof's design, the downpipe runner device provides a comprehensive and innovative solution to the challenges of rooftop water management.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a downpipe runner device. The downpipe runner device is designed to manage roof water runoff efficiently while providing an aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional downpipes. The device is attached to the lower section of a roof to guide rainwater from an upper rooftop downspout into a lower rooftop eavestrough.

The device comprises a body featuring at least one low-profile channel to capture and direct water flow. The channel is comprised of raised edges to contain water and prevent overflow. The channel's geometry may vary to suit different roof structures, with an inclined surface enhancing flow efficiency and reducing clogs. A hydrophobic coating on the channel's interior minimizes debris buildup and promotes smooth water movement.

The device is made from corrosion-resistant materials such as aluminum or stainless steel, the device ensures durability. A UV-resistant finish protects against weathering, while customizable indicia, including textures and colors, allow visual integration with various roof styles.

During installation, the device is mounted flat on the roof, with an upper end positioned beneath a downspout and a lower end aligned with the eavestrough. Pre-drilled mounting openings accommodate fasteners for secure attachment. For extended applications, reciprocating fasteners enable multiple devices to interconnect, forming custom lengths to suit specific roof configurations.

A method for using the device involves positioning it beneath a downspout and atop an eavestrough, securing it with fasteners, and, if necessary, connecting additional devices using interlocking fasteners. This streamlined design provides both functional water management and an enhanced aesthetic appearance.

Accordingly, the downpipe runner device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides a device that replaces traditional downpipes with a low-profile, aesthetically pleasing design. More specifically, the device efficiently channels rainwater from rooftop downspouts to eavestroughs through hydrophobic-coated channels, ensuring smooth water flow while minimizing debris buildup. Its construction from corrosion-resistant materials, combined with UV-protective finishes, ensures long-lasting durability and resistance to environmental wear. The device's modular design allows for easy installation using neoprene screws and interlocking connectors, enabling secure attachment and adaptability to varying roof configurations. By protecting shingles from excessive water exposure and integrating visually with the roof's design, the downpipe runner device provides a comprehensive and innovative solution to the challenges of rooftop water management.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a downpipe runner device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a downpipe runner device of the present invention while secured on a roof between a downspout and an eavestrough in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of a downpipe runner device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a downpipe runner device that provides a low-profile, visually appealing alternative to traditional downpipes. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a downpipe runner device that efficiently channels rainwater from the roof to an eavestrough, minimizing risks of overflow or standing water. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a downpipe runner device that is durable, easy to install, and adaptable to various roof configurations while protecting the roof structure from water damage.

The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a downpipe runner device. The downpipe runner device efficiently manages roof water runoff while serving as an aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional downpipes. The device is attached to the lower section of a roof to direct rainwater from an upper rooftop downspout into a lower rooftop eavestrough.

The device features a body with at least one low-profile channel for capturing and directing water flow. Raised edges define the channel, containing water and preventing overflow. The channel's geometry may vary to accommodate different roof structures, with an inclined surface improving flow efficiency and reducing clogs. A hydrophobic coating on the channel's interior promotes smooth water movement and minimizes debris buildup.

The device is constructed from corrosion-resistant materials such as aluminum or stainless steel, the device offers durability. A UV-resistant finish provides protection against weathering, while customizable indicia, including textures and colors, enable visual integration with various roof styles.

Installation of the device involves mounting the device flat on the roof, with an upper end positioned beneath a downspout and a lower end aligned with the eavestrough. Pre-drilled mounting openings secure the device with fasteners while reciprocating fasteners allow multiple devices to interconnect for extended configurations.

The method of using the device includes positioning the device beneath a downspout and atop an eavestrough, securing it with fasteners, and connecting additional devices as needed using interlocking fasteners. This design ensures efficient water management and an improved roof appearance.

The downpipe runner device offers a low-profile, visually integrated solution to replace traditional downpipes. Hydrophobic-coated channels provide smooth water flow and reduce debris buildup. Durable, corrosion-resistant materials with UV protection ensure longevity, while the modular design allows for easy installation and adaptability to various roof configurations. The device protects shingles from water exposure and blends seamlessly with roof aesthetics, providing a comprehensive approach to rooftop water management.

Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a downpipe runner device 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The downpipe runner device 100 is designed to address the challenges of standing water on roofs by providing efficient water management while also serving as an aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional downpipes. More specifically, the device 100 replaces conventional downpipes that would typically run across a roof to connect a downspout 10 to an eavestrough 12. As such, the device 100 can be attached to a lower section of a roof, guiding rainwater from a downspout 10 of the upper rooftop into the eavestrough 12 of the lower rooftop.

The device 100 is comprised of a body 102 that includes at least one low-profile channel 104, as seen in FIG. 1. This channel 104 is designed to catch and direct rainwater from a downspout 10. A pair of raised edges 106 form the channel 104 to contain the water flow and prevent overflow. In the preferred embodiment, the edges 106 are generally parallel but may form non-linear channels 104 to accommodate various roof geometry.

The interior surface 105 of the channel 104 is treated with a hydrophobic coating 108, which reduces surface friction, promoting smooth water movement and minimizing the buildup of debris. To further enhance functionality, the channel's 104 geometry may include an incline greater than 1 degree, which improves flow efficiency and reduces the risk of clogs or standing water.

The body 102 of the device 100 is constructed from corrosion-resistant materials such as aluminum or stainless steel, ensuring durability and longevity. Additionally, the body 102 may be treated with a UV-resistant finish 114 to protect against color fading and material degradation due to prolonged sun exposure. To achieve visual integration with the roof, the body 102 may include at least one indicia 110, wherein the indicia 110 is a simulated texture such as, but not limited to, shingles or tiles. The indicia 110 may be three-dimensional (i.e., pressed or stamped into the body 102 material) or may be painted/printed. The device 100 can also be finished in various colors and textures, including matte, gloss, and textured coatings, to complement different architectural styles.

During use, the device 100 is installed flat on a roof, with an upper end 150 of the device 100 positioned underneath a downspout 10 and a lower end 160 aligned on top of an eavestrough 12, as seen in FIG. 2. This configuration ensures that rainwater channeled from the upper rooftop via the downspout 10 flows efficiently across the roof and into the eavestrough 12, mitigating the risks of standing water and water damage on the roof.

The device 100 is securely attached to the roof surface using pre-drilled mounting openings 120, which accommodate fasteners 122 such as, but not limited to, neoprene screws or similar fasteners. For roofs requiring extended lengths, each end 150, 160 of the body 102 may include reciprocating fasteners 170 such as tongue-and-groove connectors, interlocking tabs, snap-fit mechanisms, or threaded connectors. These fasteners 170 allow multiple devices 100 to be joined securely, forming custom lengths to suit specific roof configurations.

The present invention also includes a method of using the downpipe runner device 100, as seen in FIG. 3. First, a device 100, comprising the body 102 with a channel 104 and pre-drilled mounting openings 120, is positioned on the roof [Step 202]. More specifically, an upper end 150 of the body 102 is positioned below a downspout 10 and a lower end 160 of the body 102 is positioned atop an eavestrough 12. The device 100 can then be attached to the roof surface using a fastener 122 that is inserted through the pre-drilled mounting openings 120, ensuring a secure installation [Step 204]. For configurations requiring additional length, a second device 100 can be attached to the first by interlocking their respective ends 150, 160 using the reciprocating fasteners 170 [Step 206].

By providing a practical and visually integrated solution, the downpipe runner device 100 effectively replaces downpipes with a streamlined and more aesthetically pleasing design.

Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “downpipe runner device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the downpipe runner device 100 of the present invention.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the downpipe runner device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the downpipe runner device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the downpipe runner device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the downpipe runner device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the downpipe runner device 100 may be of any size, shape, and/or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.