Abstract

A method of removing debris from piping within a high-rise building plumbing network includes inserting a portion of a flexible optical device and flexible water conduit into an opening defined by a plumbing system, the flexible water conduit operably coupled to a water pressure device. The method also includes coupling an end of a vacuum conduit, operably coupled to a vacuum assembly, to the opening and producing an image of a plumbing channel defined by the plumbing system with the flexible optical device. Next, the method includes maneuvering the portion of the flexible optical device within the plumbing system until the image of the plumbing channel depicts a debris at least partially obstructing the plumbing channel, inducing a stream of fluid directed at the debris, and then inducing a vacuum within the plumbing system sufficient to remove the debris from the plumbing system.

IPC Classes  ?

• E03C 1/304 - Devices to facilitate removing of obstructions in waste pipes or sinks using fluid under pressure
• B08B 9/035 - Cleaning the internal surfacesRemoval of blockages by the mechanical action of a moving fluid, e.g. by flushing by suction
• B08B 9/043 - Cleaning the internal surfacesRemoval of blockages using cleaning devices introduced into and moved along the pipes moved by externally powered mechanical linkage, e.g. pushed or drawn through the pipes
• E03F 9/00 - Arrangements or fixed installations for cleaning sewer pipes, e.g. by flushing