Self Cleaning Shield

Abstract

A filtration element adapted to be mounted to a rain gutter; the filtration element comprising a plurality of threads or water receiving membrane defining a substantially planar first surface having downward or upward extending planes or channels or inseams defining segments or areas that distend beneath or extend above the first surface, such segments or areas positioned perpendicular and/or not completely parallel to the longitudinal (lengthwise) edge of the filtration element. The filtration element may serve singularly as a gutter guard or as a component of an assembly.

1 - 34 . (canceled) 
     
     
         35 . A gutter shield device for mounting to a rain gutter attached to a building structure, the gutter shield device comprising:
 An elongated body comprising an intermediate body portion disposed between a first portion and a second portion, the first portion configured to contact, or suspend above, and/or extend outwardly past the front lip of a rain gutter and the second portion configured to contact a building structure or element or elements attached to a building structure: the first and second portions intrinsic to, or attached to, the intermediate body portion; the intermediate body portion defining a water receiving area comprising including a plurality of openings adjacent to upwardly rising and/or downwardly extending portions of the intermediate body portion and a filtering screen or membrane comprised of a plurality of threads extending over the water receiving area of the intermediate portion wherein the lateral edges of the screen or membrane are secured to the first and second body portions.   
     
     
         36 . A filtration element to be used as a gutter guard adapted to be mounted to and/or positioned above a rain gutter; the filtration element comprising a plurality of threads defining a substantially planar first surface having downward or extending planes or channels or inseams defining segments or areas positioned perpendicular and/or not completely parallel to the longitudinal (lengthwise) edge of the filtration element. 
     
     
         37 . The filtration element of  claim 36  having a left lateral edge and a right lateral edge wherein the left or right lateral edge may overlap or underlay a portion of the first surface of the left or right lateral edge of an adjoining filtration element. 
     
     
         38 . The filtration element of  claim 36  having a left lateral edge and a right lateral edge wherein the left or right lateral edge may overlap or underlay a portion of an upward or downward extending plane or channel or inseam of an adjoining filtration element.