AU2003266456B2 - Filter Device and Method - Google Patents

Description

P/00/011 Regulation 3.2

AUSTRALIA

Patents Act 1990

ORIGINAL

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION STANDARD PATENT Invention Title: FILTER DEVICE AND METHOD Applicant: PAUL STEFOU The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to me: 1 Document8 FILTER DEVICE AND METHOD Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a filter device and an associated .method. More particularly, the present invention relates to a storm water filter device and to a method of removing litter and solid waste from storm water as it enters a storm water drain. The present invention also relates to a method of fabricating such a filter device.

Backaround to the Invention Storm water run-off in the urban environment typically collects in or is directed to the side gutters of streets and roadways, and the storm water flows along these gutters until it reaches an inlet to a storm water drain. Storm water drains typically comprise underground pipelines for conveying the storm water to an ultimate point of discharge, such as ,a river, lake or the sea. A roadside inlet to a storm water drain usually includes a sunken cavity or a pit in fluid communication with upstream and downstream segments of the storm water pipeline, and the respective upstream and downstream ends of that pipeline usually adjoin the pit at or near the bottom of the pit. Such storm water drain inlets are typically covered by a heavy concrete slab or metal grate.

A constant problem with storm water drains is that, in addition to water, they tend to'collect large amounts of litter and solid waste. This includes both natural litter such as leaves, twigs, sticks and stones, as well as man made litter and waste such as paper and packaging, cigarette butts, and even syringes and hypodermic needles. Accordingly, when it rains litter and waste of this type is flushed into the storm water drains where it either accumulates and creates blockages that can be difficult to locate and clear, or it is discharged into rivers, lakes and/or the sea creating environmental problems.

Clearly, therefore, it would be desirable to provide some means for avoiding blockage of storm water drains, while also preventing the discharge of litter and waste into the natural environment. The present invention aims to address these problems.

WAVMaryO\OavnSpea)CAP of 200295311 .doc Summary of the Invention Viewed from a broad aspect, the present invention provides a filter device for removing litter and solid waste from storm water entering a storm water drain. The filter device is adapted for location within a pit at an inlet to the storm water drain and includes: a front panel, a rear panel and side panels extending upwardly from a base to define a catchment space for collecting and retaining litter and solid waste from the storm water as it enters the drain. The front, rear and/or side panels of the filter device is/are provided with a plurality of apertures to permit flow of storm water there-through, the apertures being sized to prevent passage of larger elements of litter and solid waste. The rear panel and/or side panels extend upwardly from the base beyond an upper edge of the front panel to define an inlet opening to the catchment space. Most preferably, all of the rear and side panels extend upwardly from the base above the top edge of the front panel.

In a preferred form of the invention, the base is also in the form of a panel, and is preferably substantially flat or planar. Alternatively, the base may be curved, and may be formed as a continuous extension of-the front, rear and/or side panels.

The filter device of the invention is thereforein the form of a receptacle defined by the front, rear and side panels, which extend upwardly from a periphery of the base to an opening at the upper region for admitting the storm water into the filter device. The base and the front, rear and side panels are at least partially, and more preferably entirely, formed from a perforate material, such as a perforated sheet or wire mesh. That material should be durable, robust and corrosion resistant. Although various polymer plastic materials could be used, a relatively inexpensive metallic compound such as stainless steel is most preferred. Accordingly, when formed from a perforated sheet or mesh, the filter device of the invention may take the form of a basket.

In use, the filter device of the invention is positioned within a pit at-an inlet to the stormwater drain such that the upper edge of the front panel of the device is positioned adjacent a lip of the pit inlet i.e..adjacent the top edge of the front wall of the pit. As the lip of the pit inlet is typically located substantially.

below street level (eg by as much as 400mm), the fact that the side and rear panels of the filter device extend above the top of the front panel becomes W:AMaryODavinSpeciCAP of 20029531 16.doc significant. This configuration increases the effective height 'of the filter device basket), enabling it to extend up to street level, thereby increasing the amount of litter that can be captured by the basket before flow of stormwater into the drain is prevented ie before the basket becomes so full that it substantially blocks the inlet to the drain.

In a preferred form of the invention, the front, rear and side panels of the filter device extend substantially vertically from the base and are preferably arranged .in an approximately rectangular configuration to match the typical.

rectangular configuration of the drain pits.

Furthermore, in a preferred form of the invention, at least some of the front, rear and side panels of the filter device are adapted to be spaced from the walls of the storm water pit. This spacing provides a clearance that enables the storm water to flow out of the catchment space through the sides of the filter device. By allowing flow not only through the base but also through the sides of the filter device, blockage of the pit by the accumulation of litter and solid waste in the catchment space of the filter device is inhibited. In this way, even if the receptacle of the filter device were almost full of litter, escape of the storm water through the sides of the filter device would still be possible.

In a preferred form of the invention, therefore, the filter device includes a spacer means for setting or holding the front, rear and/or side panels of the filter device at a fixed distance from the side walls of the pit. For example, the spacer means may include an outwardly projecting rim member provided at an upper edge region of the front, sides and/or rear of the filter device. By projecting a fixed distance outwardly from the front, rear and/or side panels of the filter and by being designed to contact the walls of the pit, the rim member.

thereby creates a space or clearance between the vertical filter panels and the pit walls. The filter device is preferably also adapted to be rigidly fastened or secured within the pit at the rim member.

In a preferred form of the invention, the base of the filter device is formed as a panel element and may be shaped to accommodate flow of stormwater beneath it. For example, the base may be shaped or indented to define a channel extending longitudinally or transversely across it, or it may be curved to avoid obstruction of storm water flowing through a drain-pipe communicating with the bottom of the pit.

W:WaryO\Davin\SpeciCAP of 2002953116.doc In a preferred form of the invention, the filter device of the invention includes overflow means adapted to allow escape of water into the drain once the catchment space becomes substantially full of litter and/or solid waste. The overflow means may take a number of different forms. For example, the overflow means may be in the form of an open space or gap defined at an upper edge of the side or rear panels over which the stormwater may spill into the drain once the catchment space is so full of litter as to no longer permit sufficient passage of.water there-through. In one embodiment, for example, an upper edge of the rear panel is adapted to define an open space or a gap with the back wall of the pit to permit storm water overflow to spill down therebetween. In another embodiment, the rim member of the basket at the corners where the rear and side panels join are open to define spaces or gaps through which the stormwater may spill when the catchment space is full.

In another preferred form of the invention, the overflow means includes one or more upward extension adapted to allow filtered escape of water into the drain when the catchment space becomes substantially full of litter and solid waste. The upward extension(s) is/are preferably formed from perforate material similar to the base, front, rear and side panels of the basket, and the extension(s) is/are located in the upper region of the side and/or rear panels. In one particular example, the filter basket includes two overflow extensions, each in the form of a substantially tubular member located at the'corners where the rear and side panels join.

In a preferred form of the invention, the filter device comprises two parts, with each part constituting approximately half of the filter device. This two-part construction facilitates installation of the device through a stormwater drain access hole, through the drain cover. The access hole is often smaller than the cross-sectional dimensions of the pit itself, and it is therefore often not possible.

to insert the full filter device through the access hole. By fabricating the filter device in two parts, the parts can be inserted into the pit separately and then connected together inside the pit. The parts are preferably formed as a front part and a rear part, with a longitudinal join extending through the base and side panels.

Viewed from another broad aspect, the present invention provides a filter device for removing litter and solid waste from storm water entering a storm W:WAy/ODavin\Spoc\CAP of 20029531 16.doc water drain. The filter device is adapted for location within a pit at an inlet to the storm water drain and includes: a substantially cylindrical panel extending upwardly from a base to define a catchment space for collecting and retaining litter and solid waste from the storm water as it enters the drain. The substantially cylindrical panel of the filter device is provided with a plurality of apertures to permit flow of storm water there-through, the apertures being sized to prevent passage of larger elements of litter and solid waste. An inlet opening to the catchment space is provided in a portion of the upper end of the substantially cylindrical wall.

Viewed from yet another broad aspect, the present invention provides a filter device for removing litter and solid waste from storm water entering a storm water drain. The filter device is adapted for location within a pit at an inlet to the storm water drain and includes: a front panel, a rear panel and side panels extending upwardly from a base to define a catchment space for collecting and retaining litter and solid waste from the storm water as it enters the drain. The front, rear and/or side panels of the filter device is/are provided with a plurality of apertures to permit flow of storm water there-through, the apertures being sized to prevent passage of larger elements of litter and solid waste. The filter device of the invention is therefore in the form of a receptacle or basket defined by the front, rear and side panels, which extend upwardly from a periphery of the base to an inlet opening at an upper region for admitting the storm water into the filter device.. The filter device includes overflow means adapted to allow escape of water into the drain once the catchment space becomes substantially full of litter and/or solid waste. The overflow means may take a number of different forms, including those already described above.

It is to be appreciated that in the aspect described in the previous paragraph, the front, rear and side panels extending upwardly from a base may be collectively replaced by a substantially cylindrical panel extending upwardly from a base. In such an arrangement the device may include an inlet opening chute that is releasably connectable to the outer surface of the substantially cylindrical wall adjacent or proximate to the inlet opening.

In a preferred form of the invention, the overflow means includes a panel element adapted for movement between a closed position and an open, overflow position. This would enable an operator, on inspecting that the basket W:Va ryOkDavinlSpecACAP of 2002953116.doc has become full of litter, to open the overflow panel element to allow greater release or escape of water without having to immediately clean or empty the accumulated litter from the filter device. That is, this overflow mechanism provides an interim measure that enables the drain to remain effective until such time as the operator is able to return to properly clean and service the filter device. The panel element of the overflow means may be adapted for sliding movement between the closed and open positions. Alternatively, the panel element may be adapted for pivoting movement, for example by a hinge-type connection to one of the basket panels.

In a preferred form of the invention, the overflow means panel element comprises part of the front or rear panel or one of the side panels. Accordingly, in the closed position, the panel element may perform a filtering function like the rest of the perforate panels of the device. Where it is adapted for sliding movement, the panel element may be mounted to the rest of the panel in tracks, and may include some sort of retaining means to securely hold the panel element in the open and closed positions. In an alternative form of the invention, the overflow means panel element may comprise part of the rim at the upper edge region of the rear or side panels of the basket. For example, a laterally angled portion of the rim could be hinge connected to the rear or side panels for pivoting movement to an open, overflow position.

In a preferred form of the invention, the overflow means panel element includes a handle or finger hold to assist an operator in moving the panel element between the open and closed positions.

Viewed from another broad aspect, the present invention provides a method of removing litter and solid waste from storm water entering a storm water drain, including the steps of: providing a filter device according to the invention as it has been broadly described above; and installing the filter device in a storm water drain pit.

For filter devices formed according to the first aspect of the invention, the step of installing the filter device is such that a top or upper edge of the front panel of the device is positioned adjacent a lip of the pit inlet.

In a preferred form of the invention, the step of installing the filter device includes rigidly fastening or securing the filter device within the pit. The step of installing may, for example, involve using anchor bolts through the panels of the WAMarYOXOaViMS~edCAP of 20029531 16.doc filter device, or through a rim member provided at an upper edge region of the panels, into the walls of the pit. The step of installing the filter device may, alternatively, involve installing one or more rods or bars spanning the pit of the drain and then mounting the filter basket on those rods or bars.

In a preferred form of the invention, the step of installing the filter device includes inserting a first part of the filter device into the storm water drain pit, inserting a second part of the filter device into the pit, and rigidly interconnecting the first and second parts of the filter device to each other within the pit.

In a preferred form, this method of the invention further includes the step of: periodically emptying the litter and solid waste captured by the filter device.

This step of periodically emptying the litter and solid waste captured by the filter device may include vacuuming or sucking the accumulated waste from the filter deviceinstalled within the storm water drain or pit.

Viewed from a still further broad aspect; the present invention provides a method of fabricating a filter device, including the steps of: folding a first perforated sheet member to form three adjacent panels comprising a rear panel and two opposite side panels, the side panels being on either side of the rear panel; (ii) folding a second perforated sheet member to form a base panel and a front panel, such that a height dimension of at least a portion of the front panel is less than the equivalent dimension of the rear panel and/or side panels; and (iii) joining the folded first and second sheet members securely to one another such that the base, front, rear and side panels together to define a catchment space for collecting and retaining litter and solid waste, and such that the rear panel and/or side panels extend upwardly from the base above an upper edge of the front panel to define an inlet opening to the catchment space.

In a preferred form of the invention, the fabricating method includes the step of: cutting and folding an edge of the first sheet member to form a flap associated with each of the rear and side panels, each said flap extending along a lower or bottom edge of each of said panels; wherein the step of joining the folded first and second sheet members includes rigidly securing the base panel to the folded flaps of the first sheet member. In a preferred form of the invention, the flaps are folded to extend outwards from the rear and side panels at approximately 90 degrees. In a preferred form of the invention, the base panel is rigidly secured to the folded flaps by welding, eg spot welding.

W:WaryOfDavinXSpecrCAP of 2002953116.doc In a preferred form of the invention, the fabricating method includes the step of: cutting and folding an edge of the first sheet member to form a rim member associated with at least one of, and preferably each of, the rear and side panels, wherein the rim member extends along a top edge of each panel.

Viewed from a further aspect, in the case of the two-part basket construction the present invention provides a method of fabricating a filter device, including the steps of: folding a first perforated sheet member to form three adjacent panels comprising a rear panel and two opposite side panel sections, one on either side of the rear panel; (ii) folding a.second perforated sheet member to form a base panel section and a first intermediate panel;. (iii) joining the folded first and second sheet members securely to one another such that the rear panel and the base and side panel sections together form a first part of a filter device defining part a catchment space for collecting and retaining litter and solid waste; (iv) cutting and folding a third perforated sheet member to form a base panel section, side panel sections extending upwardly from opposite sides of the base panel section, a second intermediate panel, and a front panel extending between the side panel sections, such that the front panel and the base and side panel sections together form a second part of a filter device defining part of a catchment space for collecting and retaining litter and solid waste; and securely joining the first and second parts of the filter device together, such that the first and second intermediate panels are in abutting faceto-face relationship; such that the base panel sections combine to form a full base panel, such that adjacent side panel sections combine. to form full side panels, and such that a height dimension of at least a portion of the front panel is less than the equivalent dimension of the rear panel and/or side panels, the first and second parts of the catchment space combining to form a full catchment space of the filter device, with the rear panel and/or side panels.

extending upwardly from the base above an upper edge of the front panel to define an inlet opening to the catchment space.

In a preferred form of the invention, the first and second intermediate panels have a height dimension which is substantially less than the equivalent dimension of the rear panel, front panel and/or side panel sections. In fact, the intermediate panels are preferably more in the nature of a flap.

W: aryO\DavinSed\CAP of 200295311 BdOC In a preferred form of the invention, the step of securely joining a panel or part of the filter device to another panel or part includes welding, eg spot welding. Alternatively, fasteners such as rivets or bolts, or a crimping technique could be used.

The filter device may include a bracket for supporting the device thereon within a drain. The bracket may include a device support arm, with each respective arm end including a locating pin for locating in an aperture provided in the drain wall. At least one of the locating pins may be slidably adjustable in a.

longitudinal direction relative to the support arm to enable fitment of the bracket into a drain. Further, the device may be releasably connectable to the support arm.

Brief Description of the Drawings The above and further features and advantages of the present invention will be more fully appreciated from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate like parts, and in which: Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a filter device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 is a side view of the filter device of Fig. 1 shown installed in a pit at an inlet to a stormwater drain; Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a filter device according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 4 is a side view of the filter device of Fig. 3 shown installed in a pit at an inlet to a stormwater drain; Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a filter device according to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 6 is a side view of the filter device of Fig. 5 shown installed in a pit at an inlet to a stormwater drain; Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a filter device according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 8 is a side view of the filter device of Fig. 7 shown installed in a pit at an inlet to a stormwater drain; W:VMaryO\DavinSpedCAP of 2002953118.doc Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a filter device according to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 10 is a side view of the filter device of Fig. 9 shown installed in a pit at an inlet to a stormwater drain; Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a filter device according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 12 is a side view of the filter device of Fig. 11 shown installed in a pit at an inlet to a stormwater drain; Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a filter device according to yet a further preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 14 is a side view of the filter device of Fig. 13 shown installed in a pit at an inlet to a stormwater drain; Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a filter device according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 16 is a side view of the filter device of Fig. 15 shown installed'in a pit at an inlet to a stormwater drain; Fig. 17 is a perspective view of a filter device according to still another preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 18 is a side view of the filter device of Fig. 17 shown installed in a pit at an inlet to a stormwater drain; Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a filter device according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 20 is a side view of the filter device of Fig. 19 shown installed in a pit at an inlet to a stormwater drain; Fig. 21 is a perspective view of a filter device according to yet a further preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 22 is a side view of the filter device of Fig. 21 shown installed in a pit.

at an inlet to a stormwater drain; Fig. 23 is a perspective view of a filter device according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention; and Fig. 24 is a perspective view of a filter device according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 25 is a perspective view of a filter device according to an embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention; and WA\MaryOM.W.%Spe VP of 20029531 16.doc Fig. 26 is a perspective view of a filter device according to still another preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 27 is a perspective view of a filter device according to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention; and Fig. 28 is a perspective view of a filter device according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 29 is a side view of a filter device according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention including an inlet opening chute, and shown installed in a pit at an inlet to a stormwater drain.

Fig. 30 is a front view of thie'embodiment of Fig.29.

Fig. 31 is a top view of the embodiment of Fig.29.

Fig. 32 is a side view of a filter device according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention including an inlet opening chute and support bracket, and shown installed in a pit at an inlet to a stormwater drain.

Fig. 33 is a front view of the inlet opening chute of the embodiment of Fig. 32.

Fig. 34 is a front view of the support bracket of the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 32.

Fig. 35 is a front view of an inlet opening chute according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 36 is a front view of the inlet opening chute of the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 29.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments Referring firstly to Figs. 1 and 2 of the drawings, the present invention provides a filter device in the form of a rectangular basket or receptacle formed from perforated stainless steel sheet. The filter device has a generally rectangular configuration and is designed for location within a rectangular pit (40) at an inlet to a storm water drain.

The storm water drain includes a pipe or conduit (41) which communicates with the bottom of the pit (40) for conveying the storm water there-through. The pit (40) itself is typically rectangular in cross-section; with a length of about 900mm and a width of about 600mm. The pit is typically cast from concrete and includes a front wall a back wall (43) and a rectangular W:Va rO Dlin Spe cAP of 2002953116.doc slot-like inlet (44) above the front wall, which extends the length of the pit beneath a concrete. drain cover The inlet (44) slopes downwards from street level (46) to an inlet edge or lip which may be e.g. up to 200 mm below street level, or even as much as 400 mm below street level. The inlet edge or lip (47) is typically at the topof the front wall (42) of the The filter device includes a front panel a rear panel and side panels all of which extend substantially vertically upwards from a base panel to define a catchment space for collecting and retaining litter and solid waste from the storm water flowing into the drain via the inlet The front, rear, side and base panels 3, 4, 5) of the basket have a plurality of apertures to permit the flow of storm water there-through, with those apertures sized to prevent the passage of large elements of litter, and solid waste such as cigarette butts, leaves, twigs and plastic packaging.

As can be clearly seen in Fig. 1, the rear panel and the side panels extend upwardly from the base substantially beyond a top edge of the front panel In use, as shown in Fig. 2, this top edge of the front panel is positioned adjacent the edge or lip (47) of the inlet (44) to the storm water drainage pit In this way, the rear and side panels 4) of the basket are able to extend up to a height approximately equivalent to street level (46) to thereby maximise the useful height and catchment capacity of the basket.

The filter basket shown in Figs. 1 and 2 of the drawings also includes a rim provided at the top edge region of the rear panel and side panels The rim has a laterally angled portion (10) and a vertical portion (11).

The vertical portion (11) is adapted to contact the walls of the pit while the lateral portion (10) defines a space or clearance (12) between the pit walls and the rear and side panels of the basket. The rim is also fabricated from perforate material so that even if the catchment space of the basket becomes full, storm water entering the drain may nevertheless to some extent escape through the rim Figs. 3 and 4 of the drawings illustrate an embodiment of the invention very similar to that illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2 of the drawings. The primary difference in Figs. 3 and 4 is that the basket rim is formed from a meshmaterial having larger apertures (13) than the apertures formed in the front, rear, side and base panels of the basket. The larger size of the rim apertures W:MlaryO\Davin\SpecCCAP of 2002953116.doc (13) facilitates a greater escape of storm water though the rim if and when the catchment space becomes full of litter.

In each case, as shown in Figs. 2 and 4, the filter device of the invention is secured in the pit (40) via anchor bolts (50) or similar, which extend through the perforate sheet material of the filter device into the back and front walls (42, 43) of the pit.

With reference now to Figs. 5 and 6 of the drawings, an example of a filter basket fabricated according to the fabrication method of the invention is illustrated. The basket itself exhibits essentially the same features shown in Figs. 1 and 3 of the drawings, although in this case the front panel is formed in a stepped or indented configuration to create a space or clearance (14) between the front wall (42) of the pit and the lower portion of the front panel In fabricating this filter device a first perforated sheet member is folded to form the rear panel and the side panels located at opposite sides of the rear panel. Furthermore, a bottom edge region of that sheet member is cut or snipped in line with each of those folds, and that bottom edge is folded outwards at approximately 90 degrees to its respective panel to form an outwardly projecting flap Similarly, the forward "free" edge regions of each side panel is folded outwards at about 90 degrees to form side flaps A top edge region of the sheet member is also cut and folded to form the respective portions of the rim extending along the top of each of the rear and side panels respectively.

A second sheet member is folded to form the substantially planar base panel and the upwardly-extending angled or indented front panel The cut and folded first sheet member (comprising the rear and side panels of the filter device) is then placed on top of the folded second sheet member (comprising the base panel and front panel) and the two sheet members are securely joined by spot welding the flaps (15, 16) to the overlapping portions of the base panel and the front panel The flaps are relatively short and unobtrusive and are typically substantially smaller than the width of the rim (9) so as not to substantially obscure or block the clearance (12) between the rear and side panels of the filter basket and the walls of the pit Indeed, the flaps are preferably formed to be only as large as is necessary to conveniently W:aryO0 avln\SpedCAP of 20029531 16.doc spot weld the two folded sheet members together. The filter basket is again installed in the pit (40) using anchor bolts Referring now to Figs. 7 to 10 of the drawings, further examples of the filter device of the invention are illustrated. The same basic fabrication method described with reference to Figs. 5 and 6 is also employed with these examples. In Fig. 7 and 8, the front panel is generally planar as was the case in Figs. 1 to 4, while Figs. 9 and 10 illustrate a filter device having a stepped or indented front panel similar to that shown in Figs. 5 and 6.

The most significant departure of the examples shown in Figs. 7 to from the filter basket configurations already described resides in the rim members at the top edge region of the rear and side panels 4) of the basket. As is most clearly seen in Figs. 8 and 10, the rim member along the top edge of the rear panel does not extend to or contact the back wall (43) of the pit Rather, a gap or space is defined between the filter basket and the back wall (43) of the pit to enable storm water to overflow from the basket and to spill down behind the basket to the drain pipe (41) below The same may occur between the side panels and the side walls of the pit.

Accordingly, these examples of the filter device of the invention include means for permitting overflow from the basket when the basket is so completely full of litter that it no longer readily permits the passage of storm water through the apertures These rim members of the filter devices shown in Figs. 7 to are again formed by cutting and folding the top edge region of the first sheet member according to the fabrication method described previously. The corner regions (17) are left open to also facilitate overflow.

With reference to Figs. 11 to 18, various further embodiments of the invention are illustrated. In addition to the features described previously, these examples of the filter device of the invention include two main differences. The first of these is that the base panel is shaped or indented to accommodate storm water flow through the pipe or conduit (41) at the bottom of the pit That is, the base of the filter basket is shaped so as to substantially avoid obstructing the path of water flowing through the bottom of the pit. In this regard, the base of the filter device may define a longitudinal or transverse channel The other primary difference is that, although the rim does contact and is secured to the back wall (43) of the pit the corners (17) W:MaryO\Davin\SpeCiNCAP of 20029531 16.doc between the rear panel and side panels of the filter device are provided with upward extensions (19) for storm water overflow when the catchment space of the filter basket becomes substantially blocked by litter. In these examples, therefore the extensions (19) which are formed as tubular members fabricated from a perforated sheet material similar to the rest of the filter device still provide the capacity for filtered overflow into the drain pipe (41) when the basket is so completely full of litter that it no longer readily permits the passage of storm water through the catchment space Figs. 19 and 20 of the drawings illustrate a further example of the invention, showing the filter device formed in two parts to facilitate installation of the filter device through an access hole of the cover panel That is, the access hole (not shown) is typically smaller than the cross sectional area of the pit itself making insertion of a one-piece filter basket difficult, if not impossible. In those instances, a two-part filter basket as shown in Fig. 19 will be appropriate. Each of the parts may be inserted through the access hole separately and then rigidly joined together (eg using rivets, bolts, other fasteners, or by crimping. or spot welding) once inside the pit In this example, the two parts are formed as a front part (22) and a rear part with Sa longitudinal join extending through the base and side panels The join between the two parts of the filter basket is therefore formed at flaps between side panel sections and intermediate panel members or flaps at the central join of the respective base panel sections Referring now to Figs. 21 and 22 of the drawings, an alternative embodiment of the filter device of the invention is shown. In this case, the base of the filter device is curved and the front and rear panels 3) constitute continuous extensions of the base. The side panels on the other hand are butt welded to the side edges presented by the base and the front and rear panels Again, the top edge of the front panel is set below the respective top edges of the side and rear panels for location adjacent the lip of the inlet (44) to the storm water drainage pit. In this particular example, the rim has a laterally angled portion (10) and a horizontal portion Furthermore, the laterally angled portion (10) includes rectangular overflow openings (18) to readily allow escape of water into the drain pipe (41) if the catchments space of the filter basket becomes substantially blocked. These WAM ayOrDavinVSpedCAP of 2002953118.doc rectangular overflow openings (21) are provided in the rim along the top edges of both the rear and side panels 4).

As can best be seen in Fig. 22, the filter basket shown in Fig. 21 is mounted in the pit (40) somewhat differently to the other filter baskets described previously. In this case, square-sectioned rails (24) are mounted to extend along the width of the back and front walls (42, 43) of the pit. These rails (24) engage and support both the horizontal portion of the rim at the top edge of the rear panel and a flap (25) that extends substantially horizontally from the top edge of the front panel The filter basket (1).may be secured to the rails (24) by any suitable fasteners such as screws, rivets or bolts.

Fig. 23 illustrates a rectangular filter device similar to that shown in Fig. of the drawings, this time however incorporating overflow openings (21) in the angled transverse portion (10) of the rim along the top edges of the rear and side panels 4).

Fig. 24 of the drawings illustrates another two-part configuration for a filter device according to the invention. In this case, the two-parts are formed as a top part and a bottom part. The essential features of basket configuration, however, are otherwise the same as shown in Fig. 23.

With reference now to Fig. 25 of the drawings, an important and different embodiment formed according to the second inventive aspect described earlier is illustrated. According to this aspect, the front, back and side panels of the filter basket may all extend to the same height, and the rim member (9) extends around the entire periphery of the basket. This type of configuration is particularly suited to storm water drains that are sunk directly under an open grille or grate at the side of a road, and into which water enters from the roadway above essentially from. any direction. In this embodiment, the rear panel includes overflow means in the form of a moveable panel element (26) covering an overflow opening (21) formed through the rear panel The panel element (26) is formed from perforate material and comprises part of the rear panel Furthermore, the panel element (26) is mounted in tracks (27) for sliding movement in a vertical direction between a closed position (as shown in Fig. 25) and an open, overflow position in which the overflow opening (21) allows water to escape into the drain once the basket catchment space (6) WAWaryODanSpdecfCAP of 20029531 lBdoc becomes full. The panel element (26) also includes a foldable or collapsible handle (28) which may be grasped by a user to vertically slide the panel element between the open and closed positions.

In this way, an operator, on inspecting that the basket has become full of litter, is able to open the overflow panel element to allow greater release or escape of water without having to immediately clean or empty the accumulated litter from the filter device. Accordingly, this overflow mechanism provides an interim measure that enables the drain to remain effective until such time as the operator is able to return to properly clean and service the filter device.

Figs. 26 to 28 of the drawings illustrate further embodiments of the filter device according to the present invention incorporating the overflow mechanism shown in Fig. 25 namely, with the panel element (26) vertically slidable in tracks (27) using handle (28) to open or close an overflow opening (21) formed in the rear panel of the device.

Figs. 29 to 31 of the drawings illustrate another embodiment of the filter device according to the present invention. This embodiment differs from the other embodiment so far described in that front panel, rear panel and side panels of the filter device are collectively replaced by a cylindrically shaped wall which extends vertically upwardly from a circular base panel to define a catchment space The wall (60) is provided with an inlet opening (44) to the catchment space An inlet opening chute (62) extends from the lower lip (64) of the inlet opening (44) to the drain inlet edge or lip The shape of the chute (62) is more clearly illustrated in Fig. 36, and includes upturned edges (65) for directing water and refuse through the opening (44) and an arcuate edge (66) for sitting.

flush with the lower lip (64).

Figs. 32 to 34 of the drawings illustrate yet another embodiment of the filter device according to the invention. The device includes an inlet opening chute (62a), which is a two-part construction for mounting at eitherend of the inlet opening (44) of the filter device The chute (62a) directs water and refuse into the opening Fastener receiving apertures (68) are provided for mounting the chute (62a) to the device Figs. 32 to 34 also illustrate a support bracket The support bracket includes a support arm (72) and a pair of locating pins (74,76). The pin (74) W:WaryODavinSpe*\CAP of 2002953116.doe is rigidly mounted to the arm (72) and receivable into drain aperture The pin (76) is slidably adjustable along the arm (72) to the location illustrated in Fig.

32, at which point (and upon insertion into of the pin into the drain aperture the pin (76) can be secured to the arm (72) by a fastener The filter device can then be releasably mounted onto the support bracket (70) by a fastener (84).

Fig. 35 illustrates a chute (62b), which is similar to chute (62a) illustrated in Fig. 33, but also includes tabs (84) for mounting the chute (62b) to the filter device Finally, it will be appreciated that various alterations and/or additions in the particular construction and arrangement of parts or steps for the filter device and method of the invention previously described may be made without departing from the spirit or ambit of the present invention.

W:VaatyO\Davin'SpemfCAP of 20029531 16~doc

Claims (21)

1. A filter device for removing litter and solid waste from storm water entering a storm water drain, the filter device being adapted for location within a pit at an inlet to the storm water drain and including: a front panel, a rear panel and side panels extending upwardly from a base to define a catchment space for collecting and retaining litter and solid waste from the storm water as it enters the drain, the front, rear and/or side panels of the filter device being provided with a plurality of apertures to permit flow of storm water there- through, the apertures being sized to prevent passage of larger elements of litter and solid waste, wherein the rear panel and/or side panels extend upwardly from the base beyond an upper edge of the front panel to define an inlet opening to the catchment space.

2. A filter device according to claim 1, wherein all of the rear and side panels extend upwardly from the base above the top edge of the front panel.

3. A filter device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the base is also in the form of a panel, and is preferably substantially flat or planar.

4. A filter device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the base is curved, and formed as a continuous extension of the front and rear panels.

A filter device for removing litter and solid waste from storm water entering a storm water drain, the filter device being adapted for location within a. pit at an inlet to the storm water drain and including: a front panel, a rear panel and side panels extending upwardly from a base to define a catchment space for collecting and retaining litter and solid waste from the storm water as it enters the drain, the front, rear and/or side panels of the filter device being provided with a plurality of apertures to permit flow of storm water there- through, the apertures being sized to prevent passage of larger elements of litter and solid waste, wherein the front, rear and side panels extend upwardly from a periphery of the base to an inlet opening at an upper region for admitting the storm water into the filter device, and wherein the filter device includes W:WMarO% Davn\SpecfCAP of 20029531 16.doc overflow means adapted to allow escape of water into the drain once the catchment space becomes substantially full of litter and/or solid waste.

6. A filter device according to claim 5, wherein the overflow means includes a rim member adapted to space the front, rear and/or side panels of the filter device from the walls of the drainage pit.

7. A filter device according to claim 5, wherein the overflow means includes a panel element adapted for movement between a closed position and an open, overflow position.

8. A filter device for removing litter and solid waste from storm water entering a storm water drain, the filter device being adapted for location within a pit at an inlet to the storm water drain and including: a substantially cylindrical panel extending upwardly from a base to define a catchment space for collecting and retaining litter and solid waste from the storm water as it enters the drain, a substantially cylindrical panel of the filter device being provided with a plurality of apertures to permit flow of storm water there-through, the apertures being sized to prevent passage of larger elements of litter and solid waste, wherein an inlet opening to the catchment space is provided in a portion of the upper end of the substantially cylindrical wall.

9. A filter device according to claim 8, including an inlet opening chute.

A filter device according to claim 9, wherein the chute is releasably connectable to the outer surface of the substantially cylindrical wall adjacent or proximate to the inlet opening.

11. A filter device for removing litter and solid waste from storm water entering a storm water drain, the filter device being adapted for location within a pit at an inlet to the storm water drain and including: a substantially cylindrical panel extending upwardly from a base to define a catchment space for collecting and retaining litter and solid waste from the storm water as it enters W:AMayDoavinSpe~CAP of 2002953116.doc the drain, the substantially cylindrical panel of the filter device being provided with a plurality of apertures to permit flow of storm water there-through, the apertures being sized to prevent passage of larger elements of litter and solid waste, wherein the substantially cylindrical panel extends upwardly from a periphery of the base to an inlet opening at an upper region for admitting the Sstorm water into the filter device, and wherein the filter device includes overflow means adapted to allow escape of water into the drain once the catchment space becomes substantially full of litter and/or solid waste.

12. A filter device according to any one of the preceding claims, including a bracket for supporting the device thereon within a drain, the bracket including a device support arm, with each respective arm end including a locating pin for locating in an aperture provided in the drain wall.

13. A filter device according to claim 12, wherein at least one of the locating pins is slidably adjustable in a longitudinal direction relative to the support arm to enable fitment of the bracket into a drain.

14. A filter device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the device is releasably connectable to the support arm.

A method of removing litter and solid waste from storm water entering a storm water drain, including the steps of: providing a filter device according to any one of the above claims; and installing the filter device in a storm water drain pit.

16. A method of removing litter and solid waste from storm water entering a storm water drain, including the steps of: providing a filter device according to claim 1; and installing the filter device in a storm water drain pit such that a top or upper edge of the front panel of the device is positioned adjacent alip of the pit inlet.

17. A method of fabricating a filter device, including the steps of: W:VWaryODavin\Sped\cCAP d 2002953116.doc folding a first perforated sheet member to form three adjacent panels comprising a rear panel and two opposite side panels, the side panels being on either side of the rear panel; (ii) folding a second perforated sheet member to form a base panel and a front panel, such that a height dimension of at least a portion of the front panel is less than the equivalent dimension of the rear panel and/or side panels; and (iii) joining the folded first and second sheet members securely to one another such that the base, front, rear and side panels together to define a catchment space for collecting and retaining litter andsolid waste, and such that the rear panel and/or side panels extend upwardly from the base above an upper edge of the front panel to define an inlet opening to the catchment space.

18. 18. A method according to claim 17, further including the step of: cutting and folding an edge of the first sheet member to form a flap associated with each of the rear and side panels, each said flap extending along a lower or bottom edge of each of said panels; wherein the step of joining the folded first and second sheet members includes rigidly securing the base panel to the folded flaps of the first sheet member.

19. A method according to claim 10, further including the step of: cutting and folding an edge of the first sheet member to form a rim member associated with at least one of, and preferably each of, the rear and side panels, wherein the rim member extends along a top edge of each panel.

20. A filter device according to any one of the embodiments,. substantially as herein described and illustrated.

21. A method of fabricating a filter device according to any one of the embodiments, substantially as herein described and illustrated. DATED: 03 December 2003 PHILLIPS ORMONDE FITZPATRICK Attorneys for: PAUL STIEFOU W:VharyOMDavin SpeACAP of 200295311 B.doc