Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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MODULAR STORM WATER RETENTION SYSTEM
BACKGROUND
[0001] In large commercial and residential construction projects,
accommodations must
be made for utility lines and storm water run-off management. For example, in
commercial
building structures, utility lines and cables such as electrical lines,
natural gas lines, and
communications lines need to be installed in the interior and the exterior of
the buildings and
connected to local grids and service lines. Inside multi-story commercial
buildings, these
lines and cables are often routed below floors, above suspended ceilings or
within columns
and walls inside of buildings. Where routed below floors, architects and civil
engineers
often have to provide elevated, semi-permanent floor structures to access and
route such lines
or permanently mount hollow conduits or pipes in the individual concrete
floors so lines can
initially be installed or future lines routed and serviced.
[0002] Further, respecting commercial and residential building structures,
storm water,
collection, management and retention structures are of increasing concern due
to potential
environmental impacts of such construction projects. Exterior storm water
management
systems are often below-grade structures, and are used to manage storm water
run-off from
impervious surfaces such as roofs, sidewalks, roads, and parking lots. Sub-
surface water
collection and storage chamber systems can be designed to retain storm water
run-off and
allow for a much slower discharge of storm water effluents. As an example,
such systems can
be constructed underneath vehicle parking lots and structures, such that the
storage chamber
system receives water from drain inlets or other structures, and discharge it
over time. An
example of existing exterior storm water devices is the Triton Stormwater
Solutions chamber
management systems.
[0003] The design and installation of conventional underground storm water
chamber
solutions is challenging due to many factors. For example, as underground
systems, the
space or footprint of the large and lengthy chambers is restricted by the land
owned and
available for use by these systems. Where a large rectangular space is not
available at a site
for parallel orientation of multiple chambers, irregular configurations and
less than optimal
orientations of the chambers are necessary to maximize the spatial volume to
retain and
gradually disburse the storm water or other water run-off.
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[0004] Prior storm water retention systems also suffered from disadvantages
of having to
use large amounts of porous material, for example stones in a certain size
range, to fill the
excavation void space not occupied by the water retention chambers and the
interstitial
volume spaces between the underground water retention chambers and other water
retention
structures. The stone greatly reduces the total void space that is available
in an excavation
for collection and retention of storm water run-off. It is estimated that the
commonly used
stone sizes occupy 60 ¨ 70% of the available void space where installed in
prior stormwater
retention excavations.
[0005] Stone is further expensive to purchase, transport to the jobsite and
requires a large
storage footprint at the jobsite until it is scheduled for installation in the
excavation. Stone is
also very heavy and requires large earth moving equipment to move the stone
from the
transportation trucks to the jobsite storage area on arrival and from the
jobsite storage area to
the excavation at the scheduled time of installation which could be days or
even weeks apart.
Typical rental of the large earth moving equipment required for the movement
and
installation of the stone is a significant expense. If there are unscheduled
delays, these
installation costs incurred by the use of stone only increase.
[0006] There is a need for a robust modular storm water containment system
that
provides an interior chamber which can be selectively configured to provide
multi-directional
storm water pathways and serve as a storm water retention chamber for the
gradual diffusion
of stormwater runoff through the soil column which recharges the aquafer
system which in
turn replenishes the environment. There is further a need to improve on
underground storm
water retention systems to improve performance capabilities, system life span
and reduce
burden and costs.
SUMMARY
[0007] Examples of a modular conduit unit for use in creating modular
conduit unit
structures is disclosed. The applications for the present invention are many
and range from
use in routing utility lines and cables in concrete floors and walls of
commercial buildings to
forming underground storm water management and distribution systems. The
inventive units
and modular structures can be stand along structures, buried under earth or
stone or encased
in concrete or other materials for permanent application in permanent
structures such as high
rise commercial buildings.
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[0008] In one example of the invention, each modular conduit unit has a
domed shaped
structure and four leg design forming a self-standing, strong unit. The
exemplary unit
includes four sides with arches extending outward and defining four openings,
a pair of
openings opposing each other along a respective first or second chamber axis.
The unit
provides a hollow, interior chamber in communication with the openings.
[0009] On connection of the two modular conduit units, extended passageways
are
formed through the openings for routing of utility lines, cables or other
equipment through
the passageways. The modular units can be connected to form typical and
irregular
geometric structures to accommodate the space or footprint provided by a
building site. The
modular units and connected modular structures can be backfilled around,
buried or encased
in materials such as concrete while preserving the open passageways for
routing or providing
an interior storage volume.
[0010] In another example having particular usefulness in below ground
surface storm
water management systems, the modular retention units have a horizontal or
planer upper
support surface for selected engagement with modular trays. The modular trays
serve
multiple functions including, but not limited to, a support surface for the
excavation backfill
material, prevent relative movement of the engaged retention units and
adjacent modular
trays, and substantially eliminate the need for porous or backfill material to
be installed
around the retaining units. The improvement or substantial elimination of the
need for
porous materials for example stones, around the storm water retention device
is a significant
technical and business improvement over prior systems. In a preferred example,
the modular
retention units are stackable, further decreasing the foot print required of
the materials at the
jobsite prior to installation.
[0011] Closure panels can be selectively connected to cover selected
openings in the unit
to customize the structure or completely close it off as a storage volume.
[0012] In an exemplary method of forming a modular conduit unit, several
individual
modular conduit units are connected together to form a first and alternately
an additional
second passageway through the units for exemplary uses of routing utility
lines or managing
storm water runoff. Closure panels may be added to close off selected portions
of the units or
terminate the through passageways.
[0013] In an exemplary method having particular usefulness in below ground
surface
storm water retention applications, a plurality of modular retention units are
connected in a
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desired configuration to accommodate the shape and size of the excavation
forming an
interior chamber volume to collect and retain storm water run-off. A plurality
of modular
trays are engaged on upper support surfaces of the retention units which
prevent relative
movement of the retention units and prevent backfill material from entering
interstitial
volume spaces between the connected retaining units to thereby preserve a
greater amount of
the excavation void space for the collection and retention of storm water or
other fluids or
materials.
[0014] Other examples and applications of use of the present invention
will be recognized
and understood by those skilled in the art on reading the below description
and drawings
herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] The description herein makes reference to the accompanying
drawings wherein
like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views, and
wherein:
[0016] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a single
modular conduit unit;
[0017] FIG. 2 is a front view of the conduit unit shown in Fig. 1;
[0018] FIG. 3 is a rear view of the conduit unit shown in Fig. 1;
[0019] FIG. 4 is atop view of the conduit unit shown in Fig. 1;
[0020] FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the conduit unit shown in Fig. 1;
[0021] FIG. 6A is an exemplary exploded cross-section views showing a
first conduit
unit and a second conduit unit in a disengaged position and an engaged
position respectively;
[0022] FIG. 6B is an exemplary cross-section view showing the conduit
units in Fig. 6A
engaged;
[0023] FIG. 6C is an enlarged portion in the area C in Fig. 6A;
[0024] FIG. 6D is an enlarged portion in the area of D in Fig. 6A;
[0025] FIG. 7 is a front view of an exemplary conduit unit closure
panel;
[0026] FIG. 8 is a cross-section exploded view showing an example of a
conduit unit and
a closure panel;
[0027] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing an example of three
conduit units connected
together along two channel axes;
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[0028] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an example of a large
number of conduit
units connected together and selective application of exemplary closure panel
structures;
[0029] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing an exemplary application
of multiple
conduit units and doors configured as a below-grade water retention and
dispersion structure;
[0030] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional schematic view showing an example
of multiple
conduit units encased in concrete and in an exemplary application for routing
a utility line;
[0031] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing an exemplary connecting
conduit member;
[0032] FIG. 14 is a top view showing four exemplary conduit units
interconnected by the
exemplary Fig. 13 connecting member;
[0033] FIG. 15 is a schematic flow chart of an example of a method of
constructing a
modular conduit unit structure; and
[0034] FIG. 16 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary
alternate storm water
management system in a below ground surface excavation;
[0035] FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of a portion of Fig. 16;
[0036] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an example of the modular
storm water retention
unit in Fig. 17;
[0037] FIG. 19 is a side view of the exemplary unit in Fig. 18;
[0038] FIG. 20 is a top view of the exemplary unit in Fig. 18;
[0039] FIG 21 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 21-21 in
Fig. 18;
[0040] FIG. 22 is a schematic alternate perspective view of the
system shown in Fig. 16
without the exemplary trays;
[0041] FIG. 23 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 23-
23 in Fig. 17;
[0042] FIG. 24 is an alternate partial schematic perspective view of
an example of an
alternate storm water management system;
[0043] FIG. 25 is an enlarged partial perspective view in the area
"A" in Fig. 24 showing
an exemplary locking key;
[0044] FIG. 26 is an elevational schematic view of an example of a
two-level storm water
management system using the exemplary modular units and trays; and
[0045] FIG. 27 is a schematic flow chart of an example of a process
for constructing an
underground level storm water retaining system.
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0046] An exemplary modular construction conduit unit 100 and methods
is shown in
exemplary configurations, applications and accessories in Figs. 1-15.
[0047] Examples of an improved modular storm water retention system
are discussed
below and illustrated in Figs. 16-27.
[0048] Referring to the examples shown in Figs. 1-5, conduit 100 is a
four-legged domed
structure having a first side 101, second side 102, third side 103 and a
fourth side 104 as
generally shown. In the preferred example, conduit 100 includes a bottom
portion 108 and a
dome-shaped top portion 110 having an apex 111 along a longitudinal axis 113
as generally
shown. The top portion 111 radially and gradually slopes down toward four legs
120 ending
in foot pads 124 as generally shown.
[0049] In the example, the top portion 110 is configured such that,
when the conduit unit
is covered with a material, for example with gravel, stone or dirt, the
material will not easily
collect on top of the top portion 110. Instead, the preferred domed shape of
the top portion
110 naturally directs the material under the force of gravity to all sides of
the conduit 100,
thus allowing for even backfilling and distribution of weight around the
conduit 100.
[0050] In the example shown, conduit unit 100 includes a plurality of
formations 112 and
114. In the example shown, formations 112 are in the form of ribs and are
continuous with
the top portion including apex 111. Exemplary formations 114 are shown in the
form of
depressions at a lower surface than ribs 112. The formations 112 and 114 and
gradual slope
of top portion assist in the dispersion of backfill described above and add
strength, stiffness
and aesthetic qualities of the unit 100. It is understood that exemplary
formations 112 and
114 can be in different numbers and take other forms, shapes and
configurations than those
shown in Figs. 1-14 depending on the performance and load bearing
specifications,
environmental applications, material selection and aesthetic considerations.
[0051] Figs. 1-5 show an exemplary modular conduit unit 100. The
vault unit 100 can be
made of plastic, composites or other materials known by those skilled in the
art. As best seen
in the example in Figs. 1 ¨ 3 and 7, the conduit unit 100 preferably includes
four legs 120 that
each extend downward from the top portion 110, each positioned at a respective
corner of the
conduit 100 where pairs of the first side 101, the second side 102, the third
side 103, and the
fourth side 104 meet. In the preferred example shown, each of the legs 120
includes a
formation 122 extending down the length of the leg 120. It is understood that
formation 112
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may vary as previously described above for formations 112 and 114. In the
example, legs
120 angle downwardly and radially outwardly from longitudinal axis 113. It is
understood
that legs 120 may extend at other angles and orientations as known by those
skilled in the art.
[0052] In the example, each leg 120 terminates at a foot pad 124 having,
for example, a
generally planar surface that is configured to contact an underlying surface
125 and thereby
support the conduit unit 100. The foot pads 124 can be configured to help
align the conduit
100 during installation, by placing the conduit units 100 such that the edges
of foot pads 124
on adjacent vault units 100 are positioned closely adjacent to one another and
in a proper
orientation for engagement as described below and generally shown in Fig. 7.
[0053] In the preferred example as best seen in Figs. 2 and 3, a plate
member 126
interconnects each of the legs 120 with the respective foot pad 124. Each
plate member 126 is
a generally planar member that extends upward from and substantially
perpendicular to the
respective foot pad 124. The plate members 126 can each extend in a direction
that is aligned
radially with the center and longitudinal axis 113 of the vault unit 100. The
plate members
126 each serve to stiffen the legs 120 and the foot pads 124. The plate
members 126 can also
help the vault units 100 to keep their shape prior to installation, such as
when the vault units
100 are stacked for shipping. The plate members 126 can also serve a locating
function, as
will be described further herein. It is understood that structures other than
plate member 126
may be used where needed to reinforce the joint between the legs 120 and foot
pads 124.
Where performance specifications or other factors do not require it, plate 126
can be
eliminated.
[0054] In the illustrated preferred example of conduit unit 100, each of
the first side 101,
the second side 102, the third side 103, and the fourth side 104, define a
generally planar
surface 130. Each surface 130 is bordered by a pair of the legs 120 and the
top portion 110.
An upstanding arch132 extends axially outward along a first chamber axis 128
or second
chamber axis 129 which preferably intersect longitudinal axis 113 as generally
shown. In the
example, each arch 132 includes a circular portion 133 at its top and straight
portions 135 that
each extend downward from a respective side of the circular portion 133 toward
the bottom
of the conduit unit 100, and taper laterally outward from the respective
chamber axis 128 or
129 toward the corners of the conduit unit 100
[0055] In the example, each side 102, 102, 103 and 104 each include a
diverter
connecting one of the generally planar surfaces 130 with a respective one of
the upstanding
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arches 132 as generally shown. Each diverter member is positioned at the top
of one of the
upstanding arch members 132, and extends upward from the arch member 132 and
inward
toward the respective generally planar surface 130. The upper surfaces of each
diverter
member slope axially outward along a respective chamber axis 128 or 129 in a
pyramidal
configuration. Preferably, the diverter members 134 are configured such that,
when the
conduit 100 is covered with a material such as by backfilling with gravel,
stone, concrete or
dirt, the material will not collect on top of each arch member 132, but
instead is directed to
the sides of each arch member 132, thus allowing for even backfilling around
the vault unit
100 and undue stress on the arch 132 until the conduit is properly surrounded
and positionally
stabilized by the backfill material.
[0056] In the exemplary conduit unit 100, the top portion 110 and sides 101-
104 define a
hollow interior chamber 138 beneath top portion 110.
[0057] Referring to Figs. 1-3, the conduit unit 100 preferably defines four
openings that
are each positioned between a respective pair of the legs 120. In the
exemplary unit 100, a
first opening 141, a second opening 142, a third opening 143, and a fourth
opening 144 are
formed on each of a respective first side 101, the second side 102, the third
side 103, and the
fourth side 104. The first through fourth openings 141-144 are each bordered
by or defined
by a respective one of the arch members 132 and are in communication with
interior chamber
138. Thus, in the example, each of the first through fourth openings 141-144
can each be
substantially arch-shaped. For example, each arch-shaped opening includes a
circular portion
133 having a diameter 130 and straight portions 135 defining a periphery 136.
In a preferred
example, straight portions extend angularly outward such that at the bottom of
the opening,
the opening distance between the legs 120 is larger than the circular portion
and diameter. It
is understood that the arches 132 and openings 141 ¨ 144 can take other
shapes, sizes and
orientations as known by those skilled in the art.
[0058] In a preferred example, the opposing first 141 and fourth 144
openings are
substantially aligned along first chamber axis 128 defining a first through
passage 146 along
first chamber axis 128. Similarly, second 142 and third 143 openings are
substantially
aligned along second chamber axis 129 and define a second through passage 148
as generally
shown.
[0059] In the exemplary and preferred modular conduit unit 100 illustrated,
each conduit
unit 100 includes connecting structures that allow the unit 100 to be
connected to similar or
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identical conduit units 100. In one example of a conduit unit 100 connecting
structure and as
best seen in Figs 4 and 5, two first connector portions in the exemplary form
of or a first
male connector 151 and a second male connector 152 border the first opening
141and the
second opening 142 respectively as best seen in Fig. 4 In a preferred example,
first
connector portions 151 and 152 are integrally formed in respective arches 132
on adjacent
sides and are upstanding, generally rounded portions extending radially
outward from
respective chamber axes 128 and 129.
[0060] In a preferred example of conduit 100, two second connector in an
exemplary
form of female connector 161 and a second female connector 162 border the
third opening
143 and the fourth opening 144 respectively on the respective arch members
132.
[0061] As used herein, the terms "male" and "female" indicate structures
that are
configured to be complementary and connectable to each other in either a
removable or
permanent nature. Thus, "male" structures have geometrical configurations that
are
complementary to female structures. The terms "male" and "female" are not,
however,
intended to imply or be limited to any particular structure. It is understood
that the illustrated
first and second male and first and second female connectors may take other
forms, shapes or
configurations as known by those skilled in the art. It is further understood
that other
structures and methods of connecting conduit units 100 together may be used,
for example,
mechanical fasteners including bolts, nuts, screws, rivets and other
mechanical fasteners
known by those skilled in the art. It is also contemplated that other methods
and devices such
as staking, use of adhesives and other methods to removably or permanently
connect or bond
the units 100 together may be used.
[0062] In a preferred example as best seen in Figs. 6A ¨ 6D, each of the
exemplary first
151 and second 152 male connectors include at least one protrusion 154 having
an exemplary
rounded configuration, and the first 161 and second 162 female connectors
having an
exemplary recess or channel configuration that is complementary in shape to
the first
connector portion. In a preferred example, the at least one protrusion 154
defined by the first
connector portions 151, 152 is an elongate lip that extends along the
respective arch member
132, and the at least one channel defined by the second connecting portions
161, 162 is an
elongate channel that extends along the respective arch member 132, wherein
the elongate lip
of each respective first connector portion 151, 152 is receivable in the
elongate channel of
each respective second connector portion 161, 162 on a connecting conduit unit
100. As
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another example, the at least one protrusion 154 defined by the first
connector portion 151,
152 may be in the form of a plurality of radially extending posts that are
arrayed along the
respective arch member 132, and the at least one channel defined by the second
connector
portion 161, 162 may be a plurality of complementary apertures that are
arrayed along the
respective arch member (not shown). As generally shown in Fig. 6B, preferably
a continuous
recess or channel 156 is formed on the opposing side of the material opposite
the rounded
protrusion 154.
[0063] In a preferred example as best seen in Fig. 4, the first male
connector 151 and the
second male connector 152 are located on the first side 101 and the second
side 102,
respectively, and thus are on adjacent sides that are generally orthogonal to
one another.
Similarly, the first female connector 161 and the second female connector 162
are located on
the third side 103 and the fourth side 104, respectively, and thus are on
adjacent sides that are
generally orthogonal to one another. In the preferred example and
configuration, the male and
female connecting structures are positioned opposite one another along
respective channel
axes 128 and 129 on the conduit unit 100. This allows multiple units to be
connected together
easily in any desired direction while maintaining consistent orientation of
the multiple vault
units. It is understood that different configurations or combinations of the
first connector and
second connector portions may be used to suit the particular application and
desired
configuration of portions or a complete conduit system.
[0064] In a preferred example, modular conduit unit 100 is a thin-walled,
unitary one-
piece structure formed of plastic resin in a molding process. In a preferred
example, the unit
100 is 36 inches tall and 30 inches on a side between outermost portions of
foot pads 124. It
is understood that other polymers, composite resins, non-ferrous metals and
other materials
known by those skilled in the art may be used. It is further understood that
conduit unit 100
may be of different sizes, shapes and configurations and by different
processes than that
shown and described in the examples, to suit the particular application and
performance and
environmental specifications.
[0065] Figs. 6A ¨ 6D show an exemplary first conduit unit 200 and a second
conduit unit
210 in a disengaged position (Fig. 6A), and an engaged position (Fig. 6B). The
first conduit
unit 200 and the second conduit unit 210 are as described with respect to the
conduit unit 100
and first and second connector portions previously described and illustrated.
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[0066] In an exemplary connection of a first 200 and a second 210
conduit unit, a first
side 101 of first conduit unit 200 channel 164 is generally aligned along
channel axis 128
with a fourth side 104 of a second conduit unit 210. Due in part to the
angularly sloped
portions of arches 132 and complementary first and second connector portions,
the second
conduit unit 210 can be raised along longitudinal axis 113 and lowered down
over arch 132
of the first conduit unit 200 to engage the second connector portion channel
164 with the first
connector portion protrusion 154 as generally shown in Fig. 6D. The same or
similar process
is used to connect additional modular conduit units 100 to the second 102 and
third 103 sides
by aligning the complementary first and second connector portions of the
additional units
100. Other methods to align and engage the first and second connector portions
known by
those skilled in the art may be used.
[0067] Referring to Fig. 7 an exemplary closure panel or door 250 is
shown. In the
example, closure panel 250 includes a contoured surface 254 and a periphery
256 that is
substantially sized and shaped to cover a respective one of the first141,
second 142, third 143
or fourth 144 openings in conduit 100. Closure panel 250 surface 254 is
preferably contoured
to deter collection of backfill material on the panel as described above. It
is understood that
surface 254 may take other shapes, configurations and sizes to compliment the
structures of
conduit 100 and to accommodate the performance specifications and application
as known by
those skilled in the art.
[0068] In one example, panel 250 periphery 256 includes a third
connector portion which
is complementary and engageable with either of the unit 100 first connector or
second
connector portions, for example the channel 164 or protrusion 154. In a
preferred example
best seen in Fig. 8, closure panel third connector portion includes an
upstanding flange or lip
260 extending substantially along the entire periphery 256.
[0069] Where it is desired to close off a conduit opening 141, 142,
143 and/or 144, for
example where multiple conduit units 100 are used as a storm water retention
and distribution
system, one closure panel 250 may be used for a respective opening as
generally shown in
Fig. 10. Closure panel 250 is installed in a similar way to the addition and
connection of a
second conduit unit 210 as described above. In the preferred example, flange
260 is oriented
with a respective opening and flange 260 is inserted into channel 164 or
recess 156 to engage
the panel 250 to the conduit unit 100. In an alternate example not shown,
periphery 256 may
include a channel or recess complementary to and that overlaps and engages
protrusions 154
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or similar formations on a respective arch 132. It is understood that closure
panel 250 can be
connected to conduit 100 in different ways through fasteners and other methods
described
above for connection of multiple conduit units 100.
In another example of modular conduit unit 100, a bottom or floor panel (not
shown) may be
used to partially or substantially cover or close the normally open portion
between conduit
legs 120 and in the areas of the openings 141-144. The exemplary floor panel
may be an
independent panel or integrally formed with the other portions of conduit 100.
Where not
integral, connector structures may be included to removably or permanently
secure the floor
panel to the conduit unit 100, for example foot pads 124, by methods described
above or
known by those skilled in the art. The exemplary floor panel can be generally
planer or have
formations or contours to suit the particular application or performance
specifications.
[0070] As described, in a preferred application or method of use, a
plurality of individual
modular conduit units 100 are selectively connected together along one or both
of channel
axes 128 and 129 forming one or a plurality of first 146 and/or second 148
through passages
where closure panels 250 are not used. As described and best seen in Fig. 12,
each conduit
unit 100 includes a hollow chamber 138. As additional conduit units 100 are
added and
connected, the through passage 146 and/or 148 increases in length as does the
volume of the
combined hollow chambers providing for increased retention, for example in a
storm water
retention system.
[0071] In an exemplary application as shown in Fig. 9, an exemplary
structure 280 is
shown. In the example, three conduit units 100, a first 200, a second 210 and
a third 290 are
connected together along first 128 and second 129 axes forming multiple first
146 and second
148 through passages, for example routing of lines or cables in a commercial
building.
[0072] In an alternate modular conduit structure 300 example shown in Fig.
10, a
plurality of individual modular conduit units 100 are connected together along
multiple first
128 and second 129 axes to form a plurality of first 146 and second 148
through passages and
hollow chambers 138 inside the structure 300. In the example, many of the
exterior or
peripheral units 100 include closure panels 250 on two or more of the
respective openings
141 ¨ 144. As described, the modular conduit units 100 structures may take
many geometric
forms to accommodate the space at an application site and to meet performance
and
environmental specifications.
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[0073] Fig. 11 shows an alternate example conduit unit structure 320 that
is being utilized
as below-grade water detention structure which is placed under, for example, a
parking lot.
The exemplary conduit structure 320 includes multiple conduit units 100 that
are connected
together along both axis 128 and 129, and selectively provided with closure
panels 250 1120
to close or seal unconnected openings 141 - 144, thereby defining an enclosed
interior
volume defined by the plurality of interior hollow chambers 138. In the
example, the plurality
of conduit units 100 are placed on top of a first layer of porous material
330, such as gravel,
stone, sand, and or other materials, and are surrounded or backfilled by a
second layer of
porous material 334..Additional upper layers may include for example a
geotextile layer 340,
a base layer 344, and a pavement layer 350 (for example, asphalt or concrete).
In the
example, a fluid inlet pipe 360 extends through one of the closure panels 250
for ingress
and/or egress of fluid to and from the interior volume defined by the interior
hollow
chambers 138. As described, closure panels 250 may be selectively used to
close off certain
or all of the first 146 and second 148 through passages on the exterior or
interior of the unit
structure. In one example and application, after water enters the conduit
structure 320 via
the inlet pipe 360, the water subsequently exits the conduit structure 320 by
infiltration into
and through the first layer of porous material 330.
[0074] Depending on the application, it is understood that other structures
and methods
may be used to ingress, egress or manage fluids from the exemplary modular
conduit
structures described and contemplated herein. In an example not shown, a row
or multiple
rows of connected conduit units 100 along an axis 128 or 129 can be connected
and used to
form a header row or chamber to initially collect storm water before being
allowed to pass
from the header row of units 100 to secondary or overflow chambers defined by
additional
connected units 100 connected to the header row by transfer pipes through door
closure
panels 250 or direct connection of additional units 100 as described herein.
For example, see
U.S. Patent Publication No. US2013/0008841A1 owned by the present inventor.
Other
configurations and applications known by those skilled in the art may be used.
[0075] Referring to Figs. 16 ¨27 an example of a modular storm water
retention system
1010 is illustrated and discussed below. Where identical or similar structures
are used with
prior examples, the same reference numbers are used in the illustrations for
convenience and
not for purposes of limitation.
13
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6
[0076] Referring to Fig. 16 an example of one possible configuration
of connected
individual storm water retention units 1040 is shown positioned on a support
surface of
porous material 330 in an excavation 1016 below ground level 1020 as generally
shown. In
the example, six (6) individual modular retention units 1040 are shown
interconnected with
two (2) interconnected trays 1180 discussed further below.
[0077] In the Fig. 16 example and as similarly described for Fig. 11,
the modular storm
water retention system 1010 may be used to collect and retain for controlled
dispersion storm
water collected through a storm water drain 1026, for example in a retail
store parking lot.
The drain 1026 is connected to a down pipe 1030 which connect to one or more
inlet pipes
360 (one shown) leading into the modular retention structure 1010 as further
discussed
below. As described for Fig. 11, down pipe 1030 may first direct water into a
row or
configuration of units 1040 called a header row (not shown). The header may
have additional
pipes to channel water reaching a certain height in the header into one or
more configurations
1010 of interconnected units 1040. For example, see U.S. Patent Publication
No.
US2013/0008841A1.
[0078] As further discussed below, in a preferred application and use,
modular units 1040
would occupy substantially all of the size/area of the excavation 1016
footprint 1017 and as
much void space volume 1018 of the excavation 1016 as possible, considering
necessary
backfill materials, to minimize the ground footprint required while maximizing
the void
space 1018 to collect storm water run-off (excess void space 1018 shown
between the
excavation earthen walls and exemplary system 1010 in Fig. 16 for ease of
illustration only).
The remaining volume or void space 1018 of the excavation, and space above the
retention
device 1010 may be filled with geotile 340, a base layer 344 and pavement 350
as generally
shown and described above for Fig. 11. These materials 340, 344, and other
materials known
by those skilled in the art, used to backfill or refill excavation 1016 are
referred herein as
"backfill" materials. Other materials, configurations of structure 1010 and
applications
known by those skilled in the art may be used.
[0079] Referring to Figs. 17 and 18, exemplary modular retention unit
1040 includes a
first side 1046, second side 1048, third side 1050 and fourth side 1052 as
generally shown.
Unit 1040 generally has a bottom portion 1056 and a top portion 1060 having a
longitudinal
axis 1066 which define an interior chamber 1106 for collecting and retaining
storm water,
14
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1
and other fluids and materials, as further described below and known by those
skilled in the
art.
[0080] In the example unit 1040, four similarly configured legs 1070
are used each
having a formation 1074 as generally shown. Foot pads 1080 are used at the
lower ends of
the legs for placement on a support surface, for example a layer of porous
material,
preferably crushed or processed stone of a selected predetermined size. Each
of the
respective sides of the unit 1040 includes an arch structure 1090 including a
circular portion
1094 and a straight portion 1100 as previously described for Figs. 1 ¨ 3
above. The
respective arches 1090 each include one of a first opening 1110, second
opening 1112, third
opening 1114 and fourth opening 1116 defining first 1088 and second 1084
chamber axis
forming respective through passageways 1124 and 1120 as generally shown and
previously
described for Figs. 1-3.
[0081] In the example unit 1040, each arch 1090 includes either a male
or female
connector for interconnection of adjacent units 1040 as described above for
Figs. 4 ¨ 6D
above. Other methods of interconnecting pluralities of units 1040 to form
desired
configurations known by those skilled in the art may be used. As generally
described above
for Figs. 9 -11, a plurality of units 1040 may be connected together to form
different liquid
retainment configurations suitable to the particular application and
performance
specifications as known by those skilled in the art. For the reasons described
below,
preferably sufficient units 1040 are used and interconnected to substantially
fill the surface
area of the support surface area 330 of the excavation 1016. It is understood
that the
excavation support surface 330 does not have to be a layer of porous material
330, such as
stone, but may be resident earth or other materials suitable for the
application and known by
those skilled in the art.
[0082] Referring to Fig. 18, exemplary modular unit 1040 top portion
1060 includes a
support surface 1130 which is preferably horizontal and/or planer as best seen
in Fig. 19. In
the example, support surface 1130 includes a first central recess 1136
preferably including a
first channel 1140 positioned substantially parallel to first chamber axis
1084 and a second
channel 1148 substantially parallel to second chamber axis 1088 as best seen
in Fig. 20
forming a cross pattern. Each channel 1140 and 1148 include a channel support
surface 1150
as best seen in Figs. 21 and 22.
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[0083] Exemplary unit 1040 support surface 1130 further includes four
outer recesses
1160 positioned radially outward from longitudinal axis 1066 as best seen in
Fig. 20. Outer
recesses further have a support surface 1170 as best seen in Figs. 21 and 23.
Outer recesses
1160 are each defined by a formation 1166 as best seen in Fig. 18. It is
understood that
central 1136 and outer 1160 recesses may take different sizes, shapes,
configurations,
numbers and positions on unit 1040 to suit other requirements and performance
specifications
as known by those skilled in the art.
[0084] In a preferred example, modular retention units 1040 are
vertically stackable in a
nesting arrangement on top of one another. This stackability, when combined
with the
elimination, or substantial elimination, of backfill stone material, greatly
decreases the
footprint the system 1010 requires at the jobsite prior to installation.
Referring to Fig. 22, on
placement and connection of a desired number and configuration of retention
units 1040,
interstitial volume spaces 1174 are created between the exterior surfaces of
each adjacent
retention unit 1040. Interstitial volume spaces are further created between
the outer rows of
retention units 1040 and the wall 1024 or limits of the excavation as best
seen in Fig 22 (all
referred to as interstitial volume spaces for convenience). In
prior/conventional below
ground level storm water retention devices, these interstitial volume spaces
were typically
required to be filed with porous material, typically crushed stone. Prior
device's use of stone
to fill in around the water management devices occupy an estimated 60-70% of
the void
space volume in these interstitial spaces or volumes not occupied by the prior
stormwater
management devices. The prior use of stone thereby reduced the void space
available for
stormwater retention by 60-70% in these interstitial void space areas.
[0085] Modular units 1040 may be made from the same materials as
modular unit 100
described above and be of the approximate general size and proportions as unit
100 unless
otherwise described herein. It is understood that modular unit 1040 can take
different shapes,
sizes, configurations and materials to suit the particular application and
environment as well
as the predetermined performance specifications as known by those skilled in
the art. The
relatively thin-walled, robust geometric design allows the units 1040 to be
easily lifted,
carried, manipulated and installed in the excavation 1016 by a single human
person for easy
installation.
[0086] Referring to Figs. 16, 17, 23 and 24, in the exemplary modular
system 1010, one
or more modular trays or cover plates 1180 (two shown) are used atop of the
interconnected,
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i
modular units 1040. Each exemplary tray 1180 includes a top surface 1184
having a
peripheral edge and sides 1186 as generally shown. Preferably, each tray 1180
includes
corner legs 1190 and inner legs 1196 adjacent each side 1180 as generally
shown.
[0087] In a preferred example of system 1010, each tray 1180 is sized
and oriented to
span between at least two adjacent units 1040, and most preferably four
retention units as
shown, such that the tray corner legs 1190 are positioned in a respective
central recess of
adjacent units 1040 as best seen in Figs. 17, 23 and 24. In this position,
each tray 1180's
inner legs are respectively positioned in an outer recess 1160 of adjacent
units 1040 as
generally shown. The bottom portions of the legs rest on and are supported by
the respective
support surfaces 1150 and 1166 as best seen in Fig. 23. It is understood that
different
configurations of the tray legs and recesses 1136 and 1160 may be used to
engage and
support the trays on the units 1040. For example, the recesses may be in the
trays 1180 and
protrusions or pins extending upward from the retention unit support surface
1130. Other
connective mechanisms and configurations known by those skilled in the art may
be used. It
is further understood that other engagement devices and processes may be used
to engage or
connect the trays 1180 to the respective retention units 1040, for example
mechanical
fasteners, interference fits or integrally formed coordinating locking
features, and other
devices and processes known by those skilled in the art.
[0088] In a preferred example of trays 1180, adjacent tray peripheral
edges 1186 and/or
sides 1188 are in abutting contact with each other when the respective trays
are engaged with
the respective retention units 1040. In alternate examples, small gaps or
clearances may exist
between the edges 1186 or sides 1188 provided the gap is not large enough for
back fill
material to easily pass through into the interstitial areas 1174. The use of
tray locks 206 aids
in the management and control of such gaps. Other devices, for example spacers
(not shown)
could be used to close of block such gaps preventing backfill material from
passing through
the tray joints or gaps therebetween.
[0089] As best seen in Figs. 23 and 24, in a preferred example, each
tray 1180 is of thin
walled construction having an open bottom between the corner and inner legs.
Along with
the underside of top surface 1184 define a tray internal cavity 1198 which
also may serve as
usable void space for the temporary storage and management of stormwater
runoff in the
event the excess runoff in the excavation 1016 exceeds the height of the
modular units 1040.
17
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4 .
[0090] Referring to Figs 17 and 24, in one preferred example of system
1010, sufficient
numbers of retention units 1040 are used to substantially cover the surface
area or footprint
1022 of the excavation 1016. In the preferred example, a plurality of trays
1180 are used and
engaged with each of the retention units 1080. Referring to Fig. 22 on the
outer rows of
retention units adjacent the wall of the excavation 1024, the trays 1180 are
preferably cut or
trimmed so the edge of the facing tray is in close proximity to the wall to
prevent back fill
material from easily passing between the trimmed edge of the tray and the
excavation wall
1024.
[0091] As best seen in Fig. 24, in a preferred example, each tray 1180
includes a plurality
of channels 1200. These channels structures 1200 provide increased rigidity
and also serve to
channel water under the force of gravity from collecting in or on the trays
1180. Drainage
through slits or holes may be positioned at the bottom of channels 1200 (not
shown) to
further direct and exit water seeping through the soil column or other
materials positioned
above the trays. Additional formations 1202 may be integrally molded or formed
in the tray
1180 for strength and rigidity or to aid in the manufacture of the trays.
Other channels,
formations or geometric configurations, and in different numbers, shapes and
sizes, for these
tray features may be used to suit the particular specification and/or
environment of
installation as known by those skilled in the art.
[0092] In an alternate example not shown, use of a plurality of trays
1180 may be used as
a support surface below the plurality of retention units 1040. For example,
where the bottom
of the excavation 1016 is unstable or not suitable for supporting the
retention units 1040, a
plurality of trays 1180 may be used as a floor or support surface for the
retention units 1040
to rest on.
[0093] Trays 1180 are preferably square in shape to accommodate the
geometric shape
and recesses in units 1040 as described. Trays 1180 may be made from the same
material as
the modular units 100/1040 rendering them easy to lift, carry, manipulate and
install by a
human person. Other materials, sizes, shapes and configurations for trays 1180
may be used
to suit the particular units 100/1040 or the application and performance
specifications known
by those skilled in the art. It is further understood that the trays 1180 may
span and engage
more or less retention units 1040, or not span between two and be singular
with each
retention unit, to suit the particular application and performance
specification.
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A
[0094] Referring to Figs. 24 and 25, exemplary tray locks 1206
including locking keys
1220 are shown to removably interconnect adjacent trays 1180 which provide
further
stabilization of the position and orientation of the plurality of modular
units 1040 positioned
beneath and engaged with the trays. In the example, each tray 1180 peripheral
edge includes
a locking slot 1210 having a larger head portion 1216, a narrower neck portion
and a support
surface 1214 as best seen in Fig. 24.
[0095] In the example tray lock 1206, a locking key 1220 is used to
interconnect the
adjacent trays 1180 to one another. The exemplary keys include a wide portion
1224 and a
narrow portion 1230. The wide 1224 and narrow 1230 portions are respectively
sized and
configured to fit inside of the respective head 1216 and neck 1218 portions of
the locking slot
1210 as generally shown in Fig. 25. The keys 1220 are supported by the support
surface
1214 as generally shown. In the preferred configuration, keys 1220 once
installed provide
resistance from the adjacent trays, and units 1040 in engagement therewith,
from separating
or rotating with respect to one another and yet capable of withstanding
considerable weight
from the materials 340, 344, 350, and other backfill materials, and loads
placed on the
pavement 350 from above. Locking keys 1220 may be made from the same materials
as
units 100/1040, other polymers, elastomers and/or composites, as well as
ferrous and non-
ferrous metals, may be used as known by those skilled in the art. Other
devices and
mechanisms to connect adjacent cover trays 1180 to one another, to units 1040
and/or
stabilize adjacent trays and units 1040, for example mechanical fasteners,
brackets, clips,
gussets and adhesive, known by those skilled in the art may be used.
[0096] As best seen in Figs. 23 and 24, once the desired units 1040
and trays 1180 are
installed, the plates 1180 form a substantially continuous surface, or at
least a surface which
prevents substantial amounts of earth, gravel, small stones and other of the
materials,
including 340 and 344 from easily passing through the joints or small gaps
between the
peripheral sides 188 of adjacent trays 1180 to the interstitial volume spaces
1174 thereby
filling void space 1018 which could otherwise be useful for collection and
retention of
additional storm water outside of the interior chamber 1106 provided by the
retention units
1040.
[0097] A significant advantage of the structure, geometry, size,
shape, orientation and
connection of the modular retention units 1040 and trays 1180 is that porous
materials, for
example crushed stone, that prior systems required to be placed all around the
water retention
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I .
structures, and support the weight of the backfill material, are not needed,
or are substantially
reduced, with system 1010. The retention system 1010 is essentially self-
standing/self-
supporting which is made possible at least in part by the structure,
configuration and
connectivity by and between the modular units 1040 and the trays 1180.
[0098] The elimination or substantial reduction, of a porous material,
for example stone,
having to surround the water retention structures 1040/1180 include a
significant increase in
the available void space 1018 for the same volume of excavation 1016 over
prior retention
systems. In the present system 1010, the volume that prior stone surrounding
the retention
structures consumed can now be filled with additional storm water run-off or
other retained
fluids or materials. This increase of efficiency or available void space per
unit volume of
excavation may reduce the size of excavations needed which reduces the size
and costs of the
retention system needed. The elimination of a significant amount of porous
material,
typically crushed stone, is also significantly advantageous from a cost and
labor standpoint as
previously discussed.
[0099] Stone is expensive and laborious to purchase, transport to the
excavation site 1016
and install around the water retention structure used in the excavation. Due
to stone's density
and hardness, heavy equipment is needed to transport, manage and install the
stone at an
installation site. Elimination or substantial reduction in the use of porous
materials such as
stone around the retention system has long been a difficulty and provided
significant
disadvantages noted above. Other advantages known by those skilled in the art
are also
observed.
[00100] The present system 1010 retention units 1040 and trays 1180 are
sized and of
construction to be manipulated, installed and connected by human hands
requiring few, if
any, power tools or heavy equipment. Once installed, the excavated or other
backfill material
can simply be installed on the trays 1180 to the desired level and grade for
pavement 350 or
other cover to be installed.
[00101] The modular retention system 1010 further provides significant
improvement over
the flexibility in the design of the retention systems, for example the shape
of the system
1010 as described above. The particular configuration of the interconnected
units may
accommodate difficult or irregular jobsites, for example in Fig. 10. Referring
to Fig. 25, an
example of a two-tier or story retention system 1010 is shown. In the example,
a second
layer of interconnected retention units 1040 and cover plates 1180 are
positioned on top of a
CA 03064722 2019-11-22
lower layer or level of units 1010 and cover plates 1180 as generally shown.
The materials
340, 344 and 350 may be used on top of the highest layer of units and cover
plates. This
capability provides even more flexibility where large run-off retention
capacity is needed but
only a small footprint area is available for excavation 1016.
[00102] In one example of the modular system 1010, closure panels 250 as
described
above and illustrated in Figs. 7, 8, 10 and 11 may be used to cover or close
selected of a
modular unit's 1010 first 1110, second 1112, third 1114 and/or fourth 1116
openings so that
water does not exit through that opening. Other closure mechanisms known by
those skilled
in the art may be used. Closure panels 250 may have other features, for
example overflow
ports (not shown) which may allow water to exit retention chamber 1106 due to,
for example,
water reaching a certain fill height inside the modular units or chamber.
Bottom panels
described above (not illustrated) may also be used to close or substantially
close the portion
of the unit 1040 between the lowest portion of the legs 1070. Other features
for closure
panels 250 known by those skilled in the art may be incorporated.
[00103] Fig. 12 is a schematic cross-section view showing an exemplary
conduit structure
400 that may be utilized for routing a utility line 420. The exemplary conduit
structure
includes a plurality of conduit units 100 that are connected together to
define an enclosed
interior volume defined by hollow chambers 138 and a first through passage 146
(or 148). In
the illustrated example suitable for multi-story commercial building floors,
the conduit units
100 are encased in concrete 440. In an exemplary installation method, a first
layer of
concrete 430 can be poured and can at least partially cure. The vault
structure 400 is then
assembled through connection of a plurality of modular units 100 as described
herein on top
of the at least partially cured first lift or subfloor. A second layer of
concrete 440 is then
poured over and around the conduit structure 400 to permanently encase it
while substantially
or completely preventing the concrete from entering the hollow interior
chambers 138
thereby providing one or more through passages 146/148 which the utility line
420 can be
routed. Depending on the application and size of the units, the through
passages may further
provide a crawl space to service lines, cables or other structures routed
which are not easily
removed. It is understood that materials other than concrete may be used to
surround or
encase the conduit units depending on the application and performance
specifications.
[00104] Referring to Fig. 13, an example of a conduit unit base connector
460 is shown.
In the example, base connector 460 includes a body 464 defining four slots 468
as generally
21
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0
shown. In the preferred example, base connector 460 is square, the slots 468
are formed at the
corners and extend through a thickness of the body.
[00105] As best seen in Fig. 14, an example of use of a base connector
460 is shown to
assist in orienting and connecting four adjacent conduit units 100 together.
In the example, a
base connector may be installed between the adjacent legs 120 of the four
units so that the
upstanding plate member 126 atop of the foot pads 124 engages a respective
slot 468 for each
leg 120. In a preferred example, the frictional engagement between base
connector 460 and
the plate members 126 will be sufficient to provide the required additional
stability and
orientation of the adjacent conduit units during an installation process, for
example,
installation of backfill material around the unit structure as generally
described herein. It is
understood that other structures and engagements with conduit units 100 to
provide increased
stability or orientation may be used as known by those skilled in the art.
[00106] Referring to Fig. 15, an exemplary process to form a modular
conduit unit 500 is
illustrated. In an exemplary step 510, a first modular conduit unit 200 having
four sides 101
¨ 104, four respective openings 141 ¨ 144 along respective axes 128 and 129
and an interior
hollow chamber 128 is placed on a support surface. The support surface may be
a hard
permanent surface such as concrete, a porous or other material as described
herein.
[00107] In exemplary step 520, a second modular conduit unit 210 having
the same or
substantially the same structure as first conduit unit 200 is oriented along
one of the
respective axis 128 or 129 to align one of a respective opening 141 ¨ 144 with
a respective
one opening 141-144 of the first modular conduit unit.
[00108] In an optional step 525, a first connector portion or a second
connector portion on
the first conduit unit 200 is aligned with a coordinating second connector
portion or first
connector portion of the second conduit unit 210.
[00109] In step 530, the first 200 and the second 210 conduit units are
connected together
defining a first through passage 146 along first chamber axis 128 (or second
through passage
148 along axis 129).
[00110] In an alternate step 535, a third 290 modular conduit unit is
connected to the first
200 (or second 210) modular unit defining a second through passage 148 along
second
chamber axis 129 (or first through passage 148 along axis 128).
[00111] In exemplary step 540, the method steps of connecting
additional modular conduit
units 100 are repeated along one or both of the first 128 and second 129
chamber axes to
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define additional first 146 and second 148 passageways for the desired
application or spatial
environment at the work site.
[00112] In alternate method step not illustrated, one or more closure
panels 250 are
selectively connected to a respective conduit unit opening 141 ¨ 144 on one or
more first 200
and second 210 conduit units to close or terminate the opening or first 146
and/or second 148
passageways.
[00113] In an alternate step not shown, one or more utility lines or cables
are routed
through one or both of the first 146 and second 148 through passages defined
by the plurality
of connected modular conduit units 100 and or 200, 201.
[00114] In an alternate method step not illustrated, once the designed
number of modular
conduit units are connected and installed on the support surface in the
designed location and
configuration, material is deposited around and on top of the connected
modular conduit units
to encase at least a portion of the connected conduit structure. In an
alternate step of installing
closure panels 250 not shown, closure panels 250 are installed on all, or
substantially all,
exterior facing openings 141 ¨ 144 of the structure to form a fluid retaining
reservoir or
enclosure, for example storm water retention and management.
[00115] In an alternate method step not shown, the connected desired number
and
configuration of first 200 and second 210 modular conduit units are encased in
concrete in a
respective floor or wall of a single or multi-story commercial building.
[00116] Referring to Figure 27, an example of a process for constructing
and using a
modular storm water retention system 1280 is illustrated. In the exemplary
process, the steps
of using modular retention units for a below ground level storm water
retention system in Fig.
15 steps 510, 520, 530, 540 and optional steps 525 and 535 described above may
be used for
the alternate modular water retention management device described above and
illustrated in
Figs. 16-26 and are not repeated.
[00117] Referring to Fig. 27, in step 1282 a plurality of modular retention
units are
positioned in preferably a below ground surface excavation defining a void
space. In
exemplary step 1284, the plurality of individual, modular retention units 1040
are connected
to one another in the matter described above for Fig. 15 and elsewhere herein.
In an optional
step 1285, the number, placement and connection of the individual modular
un1ts1040 are
made in such a way as to conform to the shape and orientation of the
excavation. Due to the
modular retention units and structures, for example the preferred, first 1110,
second 1112,
23
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third 1114 and fourth 1116 openings, the system 1010 is particularly flexible
to accommodate
irregular excavation spaces and areas over prior devices. See for example Fig.
10.
[00118] In optional step 1290, closure panels 250 may be selectively
installed to close one
or more of the exterior facing side openings, or other selected sides, of the
modular units to
provide containment of water, or other materials or substances, desired to be
collected and
retained within the collective retention chamber 1106 formed by the individual
chambers of
the respective modular units 1040.
[00119] Still referring to Fig. 27, exemplary step 1294 includes installing
one or more, and
preferably a plurality of modular trays 1180, preferably atop and spanning
adjacent modular
retention units 1040 as described above and illustrated in Figs. 23 and 24.
Where large
retention structures 1010 are constructed, a plurality of trays 1180 would be
employed to
substantially cover the area footprint by the plurality of modular units 1040
as described and
illustrated. As best seen in Fig. 23, the trays 1180 may extend beyond the
retention unit top
portion to further cover areas and void space below the trays on the exterior
our outward rows
of retention units to the walls of the excavation. In one method step not
shown, trays 1180
may be cut or trimmed as necessary so that the trays extend to the walls or
limits of the
excavation to maximize coverage of the trays so backfill material does not
fall below the
trays 1180 and into the excavation void space or interstitial volume spaces
1174 between the
connected retention units 1040.
[00120] In exemplary optional step 1296 one or more locking keys 1220 are
installed in
locking slots 1210 to interconnect adjacent trays 1180 to secure and/or
further stabilize and
prevent relative movement of the modular units 1040 and trays 1180 relative to
one another
and the excavation 1016.
[00121] In an exemplary step not shown, the constructed configuration of
modular units
1040 and trays 1180 are connected in fluid connectivity to a down pipe 1030 or
other drain
structure of a storm water drain so that storm water run-off collected by the
drain 1026 is
transferred by gravity into the retention device 1010 for retention and
gradual disbursal and
absorption into the surrounding environment. Use of a header retention
structure (not
illustrated) which may be made from units 1040 and trays 1180 may be
positioned between
the down pipe 1030 and main retention structure 1010 as known by those skilled
in the art.
Additional pipes, not shown, would fluidly connect the header row to the main
retention
structure 1010. The pipes extending from the header row may include pipe inlet
elbow
24
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devices, dual pipe configurations for overflow and debris management, as well
as sediment
management devices disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. US2013/0008841A1
owned by
the present applicant.
[00122] In an exemplary optional step 198, the materials, generally
referred to as backfill
materials herein, which for example may include 344 and/or earth or other
materials, are
installed atop of the cover plates 1180 to backfill the excavation back to
ground level 1020 or
other desired height, for example so that paving can be installed on top of
the backfilled
excavation 1016. In a preferred example, little or no backfill materials 330
or 344 are
installed or backfilled in or around the constructed system 1010 below the
trays 1180. For
example, in the preferred apparatus and method, the trays prevent, or
substantially prevent,
large amounts of porous or backfill material from passing below or through the
trays 1180
down to the bottom of the excavation or into the interstitial volume spaces
1174 between the
connected retention units 1040 or the retention units and the excavation walls
1024.
[00123] This highly advantageous structure 1010 and method 1080 greatly
reduces, or
eliminates, the need for porous material from having to be installed around
and in between
the storm water retention structure required by prior devices. This apparatus
and process
further leaves the interstitial space/volumes 1174 between the retention units
and between the
retention units and the excavation wall 1024 available as void space for
additional water
outside of the interior chamber volume 1106 to collect to maximize the void
space of the
retention system 1010 in excavation 1016.
[00124] The structure and design of the modular retention units 1040 and
trays 1180
described for device 1010 and process 1280 produce a system that is self-
standing, self-
supporting, does not require, or requires a significantly less, porous
material such as stone in
the void space compared with prior/conventional underground retention systems.
The
exemplary apparatus 1010 and process 1280 is capable of supporting common
backfill
materials and paving 340, 344 and 350 installed atop of the trays 1180 to fill
and pave over
the excavation while remaining a fully functional storm water run-off
collection and retention
system having high performance and long life compared to prior devices and
processes.
[00125] While the description herein is made with respect to specific
implementations, it is
to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed
implementations but,
on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent
arrangements
included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims, which scope is to
be accorded
CA 03064722 2019-11-22
=
I
the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and
equivalent
structures as is permitted under the law.
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