U.S. patent application number 10/446011 was filed with the patent office on 2004-03-11 for liquid containment/diversion dike.
This patent application is currently assigned to U.S. Flood Control Inc.. Invention is credited to Clement, Gerald M..
Application Number | 20040047688 10/446011 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 4162105 |
Filed Date | 2004-03-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040047688 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Clement, Gerald M. |
March 11, 2004 |
Liquid containment/diversion dike
Abstract
A method of constructing a section of an elongated dike
comprises the following steps: First, an uninflated tube is
positioned along an axis. Second, a strap is positioned at a first
end along a second axis. Third, the strap is disposed subjacent to
the first tube. The portion of the strap extending from the first
tube defines a free portion of the strap. Fourth, the first tube is
inflated with liquid. Fifth, a second tube is positioned parallel
to and along side the first tube, opposite the first end of the
strap. Sixth, the free portion of the strap Is disposed over the
top of, down and subjacent the second tube and disposed over the
top of the first tube. Seventh, the free portion of the strap is
loosely coupled with a first buckle. Eighth, the second tube is
inflated. Finally, the strap is tightened to secure the tubes
together.
Inventors: |
Clement, Gerald M.;
(Chestermere, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg LLP
Suite 2200
2 North LaSalle Street
Illinois
CA
60602
US
|
Assignee: |
U.S. Flood Control Inc.
Calgary
CA
|
Family ID: |
4162105 |
Appl. No.: |
10/446011 |
Filed: |
May 27, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10446011 |
May 27, 2003 |
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09667160 |
Sep 21, 2000 |
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6641329 |
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10446011 |
May 27, 2003 |
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09622013 |
Nov 13, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
405/115 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y02A 10/13 20180101;
Y02A 10/11 20180101; E02B 3/108 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
405/115 |
International
Class: |
E02B 007/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Feb 13, 1998 |
CA |
2,229,525 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A method of constructing a section of an elongated dike, said
method comprising the steps of positioning a first elongated,
uninflated tube along an axis substantially coincident with a
desired dike location positioning at least one elongated strap
having a first buckle at a first end along an axis substantially
perpendicular to the desired dike location, disposing the strap
subjacent the first uninflated tube with the first end of the strap
extending outward from one side of the first tube and a portion of
the strap extending outward from the opposite side of the first
tube, the portion of the strap extending from said opposite side of
the first tube and which is not disposed about any tube defining a
free portion of the strap, filling the first tube with liquid to
inflate the first tube, positioning a second elongated, uninflated
tube parallel to and along side the first tube opposite the first
end of the strap, disposing the free portion of the strap over the
top of, down and subjacent the second uninflated tube, disposing
the free portion of the strap over the top of the first tube,
loosely coupling the free portion of the strap with the first
buckle, filling the second tube with liquid to inflate the second
tube, and tightening the strap through the first buckle to secure
the first and second tubes together to form a dike section.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention is directed to a liquid containment/diversion
dike and, in particular a liquid-fillable containment/diversion
dike for flood control or liquid containment, bladder elements for
use in the dike and a method for construction of a liquid
containment/diversion dike.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Many systems have been employed for controlling the spread
of flood waters or fluid spills. One of the most common means for
containing or diverting a flow of liquid is sandbagging wherein
bags are filled with sand and piled to form a dike. Sandbagging to
divert liquid flow has certain disadvantages including the cost of
producing the sandbags and the difficulty in removing the barrier
of sand bags when it is no longer required.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] A liquid-fillable liquid containment/diversion dike has been
invented which can be used to contain or divert a flow of liquid
such as a flood or a liquid chemical spill. The dike is easily
transported and is fillable on site. When the dike is no longer
required, it can be emptied of the liquid it contains and then
transported to the next site where it is required. The dike is
resistant to failure due to puncture because of a multiple bladder
arrangement.
[0004] Thus, in accordance with a broad aspect of the present
invention, there is provided a dike section having a length and
comprising a first elongate bladder formed of a flexible material
to contain a liquid and a second elongate bladder formed of a
flexible material to contain a liquid, the first elongate bladder
and the second elongate bladder extending in side-by-side relation
at least along a length of the dike, at least one wall dividing the
first elongate bladder from the second elongate bladder, the wall
formed to prevent any flow of liquid between the first elongate
bladder and the second elongate bladder.
[0005] The dike section can have further bladders extending along
the length thereof provided that at each cross-section along the
long axis of the dike section there are at least two bladders
extending in side-by-side relation. The dike section includes at
least one wall between at least two bladders, the wall being
selected such that no fluid flow is permitted between the bladders.
However, where the dike section includes more than two bladders
extending in side-by-side relation, some of the walls between the
bladders can have formed therein perforations to permit water flow
therethrough in order to facilitate filling of the dike section
with liquid.
[0006] Preferably, at least some of the bladders in a dike section
are secured together. The bladders can be secured together in any
suitable way. In one embodiment, the walls of some of the bladders
are formed integrally with each other. In another embodiment, the
bladders are formed separately and are connected by any suitable
means such as, for example, heat welds or fasteners such as rivets,
belts or rope extending between the bladders or between apertures
formed on the bladders.
[0007] The bladders are formed of any material which is flexible
and which can contain water (i.e., watertight). As an example, the
bladders can be formed of woven polyester or nylon fabric coated on
one or both sides with urethane or vinyl. Preferably, the bladders
are formed of 17 to 50 ounce woven polyester coated with vinyl on
both sides. Any seams are sealed as by heat welding, adhesives or
sewing to effect a liquid-tight seal.
[0008] Sealable ports are provided in each separate bladder to
provide for access to the interior of the bladder for filling.
Preferably, a one-way valve is provided at each port for connection
to an injection nozzle. In a preferred embodiment, a header device
is provided having a plurality of connectors for simultaneous
connection to a plurality of bladder valves. Such a header device
provides that more than one bladder can be filled simultaneously.
Preferably, all valves are positioned on the side wall of the
bladder or on the end wall of the bladder proximal to a side of the
bladder to facilitate filling of the bladder without collapse. To
prevent overfilling, preferably a check valve is provided in a wall
of the bladder. In one embodiment, a pressure transducer is
positioned in communication with the interior of at least some of
the bladders of the dike section so that an alarm will sound if the
pressure in a bladder falls below a predetermined level.
[0009] To form a dike, one or more dike sections are positioned on
the ground in substantially the final selected site of the dike and
the bladders are filled with a liquid, for example, water from a
potable water supply or surface water. A seal is effected between
the dike section and the ground by the weight of liquid forcing the
walls of the bladders into close contact with the ground and each
other to prevent a passage of liquid therepast. Where more than one
section is required to form a dike, the dike sections are
positioned in end-to-end contact such that they seal against one
another. The dike sections can be formed with ends of any shape
provided they are formed to fit together with other dike sections
to form a seal therebetween. Thus, the dike sections can be blunt,
slanted or irregular at their ends. In one embodiment, the
individual bladders of the dike sections are formed to be connected
to the bladders of the abutting dike section.
[0010] In one embodiment, the dike section includes a pyramidal
configuration of elongate bladders. As an example, there is a base
layer of bladders positioned to extend in side-by-side relation. On
this base layer are positioned a second layer of bladders. The
number of bladders in the second layer is less than the number of
bladders in the base layer. If possible, a third and further layers
of bladders are positioned on the second layer. The walls of the
bladders can be formed fully or partially integral with each other.
In one embodiment, the dike section is formed from a plurality of
elongate dike bladders which are fully or partially separable.
[0011] It has been found that the operation of the dike section can
be enhanced by preventing the water from seeping between the
bladders. Thus, in one embodiment, a sheet of material can be
partially or fully wrapped about the dike section at the
intersection of abutting dike sections or along the length of a
dike section. In addition, or alternately, a sheet of material is
positioned over the containment side of the dike section to extend
a selected distance over the ground surface away from the dike
section. The sheet of material is preferably liquid-tight.
[0012] In accordance with another broad aspect of the present
invention, there is provided an elongate dike bladder comprising: a
tube closed at its ends and having a wall and a long axis between
the ends, the tube formed to be flexible and watertight, and at
least one port for access to the interior of the bladder.
[0013] In one embodiment, each elongate dike bladder is formed as a
tube of flexible, watertight material with a membrane extending
across the interior of the tube parallel to the long axis thereof.
Preferably, the membrane extends substantially across the diameter
of the tube. The membrane can be solid or perforated. A bladder is
primarily intended to be used in combination with other bladders
for liquid containment or diversion. However, a bladder can be used
alone for containment or diversion of a flow of liquid depending on
the size of the flow of liquid and the size of the bladder. In such
a situation, however, the bladder to be used should be one in which
the membrane is solid and does not permit fluid flow through the
membrane so that a puncture along the bladder will not result in a
complete loss of water pressure in the bladder.
[0014] According to another feature of the present invention, the
bladder is formed as tube and the open ends are heat sealed or
welded. To provide additional strength and integrity to the bladder
ends, at least one of the ends is folded back on the bladder and
maintained in this configuration by an end reinforcing sleeve.
Thus, the ends do not independently withstand the pressure of the
liquid within the bladder but instead are reinforced beneath the
sleeve. Such a bladder is producible at low costs since a tube of
watertight material can be used and cut into any suitable length
and heat sealed or welded. Low cost welding procedures have been
found to be particularly appropriate and cost efficient to close
off the ends of the tubes.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] A further, detailed description of the invention, briefly
described above, will follow by reference to the following drawings
of specific embodiments of the invention. These drawings depict
only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to
be considered limiting of its scope. In the drawings:
[0016] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a dike bladder according to
teachings of the present invention, the end of the dike bladder
being cut away to show the internal structure;
[0017] FIG. 1B is a sectional view through a bladder plug useful in
the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 1C is a sectional view through a bladder side seam
useful in the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 1D is a perspective view of an end of a dike bladder
according to teachings of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 1E is a side elevation view of another bladder
according to teachings of the present invention shown partly in
section;
[0021] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of dike section according to
teachings of the present invention, the end of the dike section
being cut away to show the internal structure;
[0022] FIG. 2B is a sectional view through a bladder seam useful in
the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 3 is an end elevational view of the unbroken-away dike
section of FIG. 2A;
[0024] FIG. 4A is a side elevation view of two dike sections
positioned in end-to-end configuration;
[0025] FIGS. 4B-a to 4B-c are schematic representations of a
process for securing two bladders in end-to-end configuration;
[0026] FIG. 5 is an end elevational view of a dike section
according to teachings of the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of two dike bladders in
end-to-end configuration during a liquid filling operation;
[0028] FIG. 7 is an end view of another embodiment of a dike
section according to teachings of the present invention;
[0029] FIGS. 8A-8E are a schematic view of a dike construction
operation according to teachings of the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 9 is a sectional view through another dike section
according to teachings of the present invention;
[0031] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an uninflated tube
according to teachings of the present invention;
[0032] FIG. 11 is a side cross-sectional view of the end portions
of an uninflated tube such as is shown in FIG. 10 with one end
folded within a sleeve, as it would be in the end section of a
dike, and the opposite end engaged with an adjacent tube 10 and
within a sleeve, as it would be in a central portion of a dike;
[0033] FIGS. 12A-L are fragmentary perspective views of the
construction of a dike section;
[0034] FIG. 12M is a schematic end view of the dike of FIG. 12L
expanded to include four additional tubes, the original three base
tubes being shown with cross-hatching.
[0035] FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of a strap and buckle in use;
and
[0036] FIGS. 14A and 14B are enlarged views of a quick link engaged
between adjacent band and strap.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0037] Referring to FIG. 1a, a dike bladder 10 according to one
aspect of the present invention is shown. Dike bladder 10 includes
a wall 12 formed generally as a tube and closed at its ends 14. A
membrane 16 extends substantially diametrically across the interior
of the bladder along its long axis, indicated as 18. Membrane 16
acts to strengthen the form of the bladder and to distribute
outward forces acting on the bladder, when filled with liquid, to
reduce the chance of bladder damage due to seam bursts. Membrane 16
can be solid, as shown, to prevent passage of liquid between
chambers 20a, 20b separated by membrane 16. When solid, membrane 16
acts to isolate chamber 20a from chamber 20b to thereby prevent
full collapse of the bladder should a leak occur in one of the
chambers. Alternately, to facilitate filling of the bladder,
membrane 16 can be perforated (FIG. 2A) to permit liquid flow
between chambers 20a, 20b.
[0038] Ports 22 having removable plugs 22a therein are disposed in
the bladder wall for liquid injection into the chambers. Since, in
the illustrated embodiment, no fluid flow can occur between
chambers 20a, 20b, a port must be provided for each chamber.
However, if membrane 16 is perforated, one port can be used to fill
the entire bladder.
[0039] Referring to FIG. 1B, a useful port/plug assembly is shown.
Ports 22 preferably include a threaded insert 23 which is sealably
secured into the material of wall 12 by use of a retaining nut 23a.
Plug 22a is threadably insertable into insert 23. A suitable port
and plug arrangement is, for example, an ABS flush drain valve
secured into the wall of the bladder. Alternately, ports can have
disposed therein one-way valves which can be fully opened to permit
emptying of the bladder; when desired. Preferably, as shown, the
ports are positioned proximate one side of the bladder to reduce
collapse of the bladder during filling.
[0040] A pressure release valve 24 is also provided for each
separate-chamber of the bladder to prevent damage resulting from
overfilling. A pressure detector 25a and a signal 25b is disposed
in wall 12 of bladder 10 to monitor the pressure of the liquid in
the bladder and to emit a signal when a pressure below a
preselected pressure is detected. The signal can be, for example,
an audible alarm or a radio signal etc. to a monitoring panel. The
pressure release valve and the pressure detector and signal can be
mounted on the bladder in combination as one unit. Other valves and
pressure detection and signalling means can be used, as
desired.
[0041] Bladder 10 including the walls and the ends and, if desired,
the membrane can be formed of any suitable flexible, watertight
material. In a preferred embodiment, bladder 10 is formed of nylon-
or urethane-coated polyester. Preferably, the material should be
selected to have limited stretch. A particularly useful material is
available as Hurculite.TM.. Any seams of the bladder can be
prepared to provide a watertight seal by folding, heat welding,
adhesives and/or sewing. In the embodiment, as shown, the material
is laid out in three layers and overlapping edges are folded and
heat welded to effect a watertight seal. The folded portion forms a
flange 26 which extends out from the bladder. Preferably, flange 26
includes reinforced apertures 28 formed therethrough for receiving
fasteners for connection of adjacent bladders during dike
construction. The use of fasteners with sharp edges should be
avoided, however, to prevent puncturing. Preferably, ends 14 are
formed without flanges to provide for close contact with any
abutting bladders.
[0042] Other methods of bladder construction can be used, as
desired. Referring to FIG. 1C, another method of forming the
bladder is shown wherein the walls 12 of the bladder are folded
inwardly over membrane 16 and welded, as indicated at 29, in
place.
[0043] Referring to FIGS. 1D and 1E, a cost-effective and easy to
produce bladder 10a is shown. Bladder 10a includes walls 12a formed
of a tube of watertight material, such as Hurculite.TM., which has
been rolled and heat welded to form a tube. The ends 14a of the
bladder are closed by heat welding. Such a construction permits any
length of bladder to be formed quickly and easily without the
requirement for a complicated construction to close the ends. As
would be appreciated, the pressure on ends 14a is great when
bladder 10a is filled with water, thus, bladder 10a further
includes end reinforcing sleeves 15a for use in reinforcing the end
to permit filling of the bladder without bursting the end seam. End
reinforcing sleeves 15a are sized to maintain ends 14a in a
condition folded back over the bladder. In a preferred embodiment,
a length of bladder tube material is used for the end reinforcing
sleeves. By using the tube material for both the bladder and the
sleeve, the cost and ease of manufacture of the bladder are both
enhanced. A sleeve having a length of 3 to 4 feet has been found
suitable for use in reinforcing the ends of a 24" bladder.
Preferably, the end of the bladder is folded back and the sleeve is
placed around the end of the bladder and over the folded end when
the bladder is in an empty or partially filled state. As the
bladder fills, it expands within the sleeve and the end is
maintained firmly between the sleeve and the bladder. Sleeves 15a
maintain ends 14a in a folded configuration and permits the bladder
to be filled with liquid without concern about bursting the end
seams. A preferred fill port 22 for such a bladder is a Munsen.TM.
valve.
[0044] Bladders of any diameter and length can be formed. To
facilitate transport and use, bladders of 10", 17" or 24" diameter
and 50 foot lengths are preferred.
[0045] The bladders of the present invention can be filled with a
liquid through their ports and use alone to divert or contain a
flow of liquid. For containment or diversion of more significant
flows, it has been found that it is advantageous to use bladders,
generally as shown in FIGS. 1A to 1E, to form a dike section 30 as
shown in FIGS. 2A and 3. Dike section 30 is shown generally
schematically in FIG. 2A as it would not appear in this form either
when filled with liquid for use or when empty for transport. The
same dike section is shown in FIG. 3 with exemplary distortion of
bladder shape by the effect of compression from the weight of the
water within the bladders. Dike section 30 includes six bladders
10a to 10f, generally as described in FIG. 1. The bladders are
arranged in three layers to form a pyramidal configuration. In
particular, bladders 10a, 10b and 10c form a base layer, bladders
10d and 10e form a second layer, and bladder 10f forms a third
layer. Using bladder 10f as an example, each bladder includes a
side wall 12f, a membrane 16f and ends 14f (only one can be seen as
the other was removed from the drawing to permit illustration of
the interior form). Bladder 10f is formed having seams 32 sealed by
rolling and welding. Seams 32 are substantially flush with the
outer surface of the bladder. This enhances sealing contact with an
optional dike wrap, as will be described and shown hereinafter.
[0046] Membrane 16f has formed therein perforations 34 to permit
liquid flow therethrough. Preferably, perforations 34 are formed to
extend along the width of the membrane, as shown, so that they
extend parallel to the main stress vectors of the membrane to
thereby not compromise the strength of the membrane. A single valve
22f is provided at an end of bladder 10f.
[0047] To permit construction in this pyramidal configuration, the
base layer of bladders 10a to 10c must be secured together to
prevent the outside bladders 10a and 10c from being forced out of
position. Bladders 10a to 10c can be secured together in
side-by-side relation in any suitable way, such as, for example, by
fasteners secured between flanges 26 or preferably by heat welding
the bladders together or forming them integrally. Bladders 10a to
10c can be formed such that membranes 16a, 16b, and 16c are formed
of a single sheet of material which extends from seam 32a to seam
32c. Sides 12a, 12b and 12c are applied on either side of the sheet
of material forming membranes 16a to 16c and seams 32a, 32c and
36a, 36c are formed to seal the bladders from liquid communication
with each other. Referring to FIG. 2B, one method for formation of,
for example, seam 36a is shown. To form seam 36a, sides 12a and 12b
are applied on either side of the single sheet of material intended
to form membrane 16a, 16b. The ends 12a' of walls 12a and the ends
12b' of walls 12b are overlapped and sealed, as by heat welding
indicated at 37, against membrane 16a, 16b.
[0048] Bladders 10d and 10e are also connected to permit them from
being forced out of position by the weight of bladder 10f. However,
it is to be understood that bladders 10d and 10e need not be
connected in this way as the forces imparted by bladder 10f may not
be significant when compared to the amount of force required to
move bladders 10d and 10e out of the indents formed between
bladders 10a and 10b and bladders 10b and 10c, respectively.
[0049] To construct a dike section as shown in FIGS. 2A and 3,
bladders 10a to 10c are positioned on a ground surface 37. Bladders
10a to 10c can be separate and connected together with fasteners or
other means or can be formed as a single unit, as shown. The
bladders will be in collapsed condition to ease transport and
placement. After the bladders are in position on ground surface 37,
water is injected into the bladders through their valves. Once
bladders 10a to 10c are filled to a suitable pressure with water,
bladders 10d and 10e, in collapsed condition, are positioned in the
indents formed between the bladders of the base layer. Bladders 10d
and 10e are then filled with water to a selected fullness or
pressure. The bladder 10f is then placed in the indent between
bladders 10d and 10e and it is filled with water. The dike section
is then ready for use to divert and/or contain a flow of liquid. In
a preferred embodiment for use in flood control, a dike section of
about 7' width by 5' height can be formed using six bladders of 24
inch diameter. Where a dike of greater height or strength is
required, further bladders can be added against the dike and
secured to the other bladders of the dike or larger bladders can be
used. It has been found that the dike will act in an enhanced way
to control a flow of liquid where all of the bladders in a dike
section are secured together.
[0050] The ends of dike section 30 can be formed in any suitable
way to permit end-to-end abutment to create a watertight seal
between the dike sections. One embodiment of a dike section 30a
having an end which is slanted is shown in FIG. 4A. In particular,
dike section 30a is formed from a plurality of bladders including a
base layer 40 of three bladders (only one of which can be seen), a
second layer of two bladders 41 (only one of which can be seen),
and a third separate bladder 42. The dike section is formed such
that the end 42' of bladder 42 is recessed from the ends 41' of
bladders 41 and, similarly, the ends 41' of bladders 41 are
recessed from the ends 40' of bladders 40. This causes the end of
dike 30a to be slanted, in side view, a particular angle .alpha.
from the long axis 44 of the dike section 30a. The angle .alpha.
will depend on the degree to which the bladders are recessed from
each other. The end of dike can be sealed against another dike 30b
having a similarly slanted end. It would also be understood that
dike section 30a having a slanted end can be rolled onto its side
and used to form bends in a dike. The ends of the dike sections can
have other forms, as desired.
[0051] Referring to FIGS. 4B-a to 4B-c, the ends of dike sections
can be secured together in a convenient way when bladders as shown
in FIGS. 1D and 1E are used. In particular, the ends 14a', 14" of
abutting bladders 10a' and 10a" can be rolled together and secured
in this rolled configuration using an end reinforcement sleeve 15a.
FIG. 4B-a shows the first step in which abutting bladders 10a',
10a" are set in position for use with their ends 14a', 14a" in
overlapping configuration. Ends 14a', 14a" are then rolled together
(FIGS. 4B-b and 4B-c) and sleeve 15 is placed over the rolled ends.
As may be seen in FIGS. 4B-a through 4B-c, the term "rolled" is
intended to include an arrangement wherein the ends of the dike
sections are folded over each other and engaged as few times as a
single turn. The water is then provided to fill the bladders so
that they expand within the sleeve and are maintained in the rolled
configuration by the sleeve 15.
[0052] Referring to FIG. 5, a sectional view through another dike
section 30b is shown including a plurality of bladders and wherein
the walls between the bladders are formed integral. The six
bladders 10' are not separable each from the other. The walls 12'
of the bladders are solid such that no fluid communication is
possible between the bladders. This prevents total failure of the
dike section where a puncture occurs in one of the bladders. Dikes
containing other numbers of bladders can be made. A dike, as
illustrated in FIG. 5, can be made by any suitable means, such as,
for example, by extrusion or pultrusion.
[0053] To facilitate the filling operation of a dike section,
preferably a header system is used. FIG. 6 shows one header
arrangement wherein bladders 110a, 110b are formed with ends 110a'
and 110b' intended to be abutted together to effect a seal
therebetween. Valves 122 are positioned adjacent ends 110a' and
110b' and in communication with the interior of the bladders. A
header connector 150 is provided for removable attachment to the
valves 122. Preferably header connector 150 is formed of flexible
hose to permit some adjustment depending on the spacing of valves
122. Header connector 150 has positioned thereon a valve 152 for
connection, for example, to a fire hose (not shown). During a dike
construction operation, bladders 110a, 110b can be positioned so
that their ends 110a' an 110b' carrying the valves 122 are in
end-to-end configuration. Header connector 150 can be attached to
valves 122 and a hose (not shown) can be connected at valve 152.
Water from a water source can be supplied through the hose and into
the header to be distributed to bladders 110a, 110b.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 7, more complex header 160 can be provided
to permit simultaneous filling of a plurality of bladders. Header
160 includes a main valve 162 for connection to, for example, a
fire hose nozzle. A plurality of flexible tubes 164 extend between
valve 162 and bladders 110' of a dike section. Positioned in each
tube 164 is a one-way valve 166 which permits liquid to pass
therethrough into the bladder but prevents liquid from passing from
the bladder back towards valve 162. Thus, water can be injected
simultaneously into all of the bladders connected to valve 162, but
water cannot be drained out of the entire dike section by a
puncture in one of the bladders.
[0055] Referring to FIGS. 8A to 8E, the construction of a dike
according to the present invention is shown. A bladder unit 209
containing four bladders 210a is rolled out in a selected position
on a ground surface 37. Bladders 210a are connected by seams 236a
so that they cannot move apart, but seams 236a prevent liquid
communication between the bladders. Each bladder includes a one-way
valve 222 for injection of water into the bladder. A header
connector 250 is connected to a water house 256 which is in
communication with a water source 257. Header connector 250 is
connected to valves 222 and water is passed from the source to the
bladders to fill the bladders to a selected level. The header
connector is then removed from valves 222. The point at which the
bladders are properly filled can be determined by timing,
observation of the nature of the bladders, pressure release valves
(see 24 of FIG. 1) or using other means. Other methods can be used
for filling the bladders, but use of a header facilitates the
filling operation.
[0056] Once bladders 210a are filled to a suitable pressure with
water (FIG. 8B), a unit 211 including three bladders 210b, in
collapsed condition, is positioned on top of unit 209. Bladders
210b are then filled with water in a similar manner as that
described hereinbefore. During the filling operation, bladders 210b
will, by gravity, drop into the indents between bladders 210a.
[0057] A further unit 213 containing two bladders 210c is
positioned onto unit 211 and filled. Finally a top bladder 210d is
placed on top of the other units and is filled with water. The
construction of dike section 230c is then complete (FIG. 8C).
Preferably, each bladder is connected to at least one other bladder
to increase the strength of the dike section.
[0058] A second dike section 230d is constructed to be in abutting
relation to dike section 230c (FIG. 8D) and other dike sections can
be added to produce a dike of selected length.
[0059] Where the flow of liquid to be contained or diverted
increases beyond the size of dike section 230c, further bladders
can be positioned adjacent the dike section, filled and secured to
the dike section.
[0060] To reinforce the end-to-end connection, a wrap 258 can be
positioned around the end-to-end connection (FIG. 8E). Wrap 258 can
be formed of plastic material or any other material of suitable
strength and which will not break down when in contact with the
liquid to be contained or diverted. The constructed dike is then
ready to be used to divert and/or contain a flow of liquid.
[0061] In an alternate embodiment of the invention, the bladders
are formed separately and connected by any suitable means. In the
currently preferred embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 10-11,
individual bladders 300 are utilized which have an elongated tube
302 having ends 304, 306. In the currently preferred embodiment,
when filled, the tube 302 takes on a generally circular
configuration and is on the order of 58"-60" in circumference. In
order to allow each bladder 300 to be filled, a port 308 is
provided at one end of the bladder and a pressure relief valve 310
is provided at the opposite end. It will be noted that this
embodiment of the bladder does not include an internal membrane (as
illustrated, for example, in FIGS. 1A and 2A).
[0062] In assembling a dike section utilizing the elongated tube
302, the end 304 of the unfilled tube 302 is folded over 312 and
disposed within a reinforcing sleeve 314 when disposed at the end
of the dike section. As may be seen in FIG. 11, preferably the end
304 of the tube 302 is folded upward and over on the order of 24
inches or so. A sleeve 314 of a similar circumference and a length
on the order of 48" is slipped over the folded over section 312,
preferably two inches or so beyond the folded end 304. The opposite
end of the sleeve 314 is then folded under the tube 304,312.
[0063] When the tube 302 is included as a part of a longer dike
section, the end 306 of the tube 302 is preferably folded over to
engage the folded end 316 of a divergently disposed tube 318. A
similar sleeve 320 is then disposed over the interlocked end
sections 306, 316. It will be appreciated that the ends 304, 306,
316 are so folded and held in place by the sleeves 314, 320 quickly
and effectively to allow the tubes 302, 318 to retain water under
pressure.
[0064] In order to construct a section of a dike which is higher
than the diameter of a single tube, a unique strapping arrangement
may be utilized. To join two or three tubes together, a strap 330
of at least a sufficient length to encircle the tubes individually
and sufficient strength to withstand the forces exerted by the
tubes and on the tubes due to the fluids which the dike is designed
to withstand. In the preferred embodiment, strap 330, designed for
use with three 19-inch diameter tubes, is 2 inches wide and 17 feet
long and has a minimum breaking strength on the order of 9800
pounds per inch. While any material of appropriate strength may be
utilized, woven fabrics such as polyester mesh have been found to
be most suitable.
[0065] To facilitate connection and locking of the strap 330, a
first buckle 332 is included at the proximal end 334 of the strap
330, and a second buckle 336 is spaced in from the proximal end 334
on the order of approximately the circumference of the tubes. In
the illustrated embodiment, the buckles 332, 336 are in the form of
two "D" buckles, such as are shown in FIG. 13, the second buckle
336 being spaced on the order of 54 inches from proximal end 334
disposed along on the side of the strap 330. The significance of
the buckle 332, 336 placement will become clear upon an explanation
of the method of placement of the strap 330 and coupling with the
buckles 332, 336.
[0066] While the assembly operation will be described with
reference to generally circular, cylindrical tubes, it will be
appreciated that tubes of alternate cross-sectional shapes may
likewise be utilized. It is to be further understood that although
the figures provided and referenced with regard to the construction
of the dike section show the tubes with their ends disposed
substantially along a single vertical plane, it will be appreciated
that the ends of the lengths of tubes may be staggered. The tubes
so connected may also comprise a number of tubes with the ends
connected as shown, for example, in FIG. 11. Accordingly, it is to
be understood that the term "parallel" as used in the specification
and claims does not require that the individual tubes be positioned
with the ends disposed substantially adjacent one another, but,
rather that the tube or axis is, in general, parallel to another
axis or tube such that the ends may be offset.
[0067] Referring now to FIGS. 12A-M, in assembly, a first
uninflated tube 338 with its ends closed or attached as shown in
FIG. 11 is rolled out to the position where it will be utilized to
arrest flood waters or the like. The strap 330 is then positioned
beneath the tube 338 with the proximal end 334 (having the buckle
332) preferably toward the wet side (shown generally at 340), with
the strap 330 extending perpendicular to the direction the tube 338
is disposed and extending 6 to 8 inches beyond the edge of the tube
338. The strap 330 is placed with the second buckle 336 accessible
from the upwardly facing surface. As shown in FIG. 12A, the "D"
buckles of the preferred embodiment are facing up. Like straps (not
shown) are similarly positioned on the order of every six feet
along the tube 338. While multiple straps are preferably utilized
along the length of the tube 338 approximately every six feet, the
following explanation will be made generally in reference to a
single strap 330. It will be appreciated, however, that the same
procedures are performed with regard to each strap positioned along
the length of the dike. The tube 338 is then inflated with
water.
[0068] As may be seen in FIG. 12B, a second tube 342 is then rolled
out parallel the first tube 338 and the strap 330 placed over the
top of the second tube 342. The strap 330 is then looped around and
underneath the second tube 342 and up over the top of the first
tube 338, as shown in FIG. 12C. The second tube 342 is then
inflated with water. The strap 330 is then connected to the "D"
buckle 332 disposed at the proximal end 334 of the strap 330 and
the strap 330 tightened to secure the first and second tubes 338,
342 together. Caution should be asserted, however, to not
overtighten the strap 330 and cause a pinching of the tubes 338,
342.
[0069] Thus, at this stage, the dike includes two tubes 338, 342,
with a strap 330 woven around and between the tubes 338, 342 and
tightened at the first "D" buckle 332. The strap 330 includes
adjacent portions which extend subjacent the first tube 338, upward
between the two tubes 338, 342, about the perimeter of the second
tube 342, upward again between the two tubes 338, 342, and over the
first tube 338, the free end of the strap 330 being tightened at
the first buckle 332. It will be appreciated by those of skill in
the art that if it is not necessary to further increase the height
of the dike, no further tubes need be added, and the second buckle
336 is unnecessary. If, however, it is desirable to further
increase the height of the dike, additional tubes may be added as
set forth in the following method.
[0070] As shown in FIG. 12E, a third tube 344 may then be rolled
out on the top of and in the middle of the two base tubes 338, 342.
The end of the strap 330 is then placed over the top of the third
tube 344 and loosely connected to the other buckle 336. The third
tube 344 is then inflated with water and the strap 330 tightened
over the third tube 344, as shown in FIG. 12F, again being careful
not to overtighten the strap. Thus, the three tubes, 338, 342, 344
coupled with the straps 330 spaced along their length provides an
effective dike system to contain floodwaters.
[0071] If a taller dike section is required, as may be the case
with advancing floodwaters, for example, the illustrated three tube
pyramid configuration may be expanded to a configuration which
includes six, ten, or more tubes by adding and connecting
additional tubes along the dry side (shown generally as 346) of the
dike section. In order to couple added tubes to the three tube
pyramid base, closed-loop bands 348, preferably of the same
material as the strap 330, are provided. In the illustrated
embodiment, the bands 348 are circular and have a circumference
which is roughly the same as that of the tubes to be added. Thus,
with the preferred 19" diameter tubes, the bands 348 will have a
circumference on the order of 59 inches.
[0072] In order to ensure that the added tubes maintain their
positions relative to each other and the original dike section
tubes 338, 342, 344, connectors 352 are provided. While alternate
connector 352 designs may be utilized, the preferred coupler design
is that of a conventional 3/8-inch quick link 352, available from
most hardware stores. It has been found that such quick link 352
provide adequate strength, and are easily coupled to the already
positioned strap 330 and the band 348 disposed about an uninflated
tube to quickly and effectively couple added tubes to the base dike
section, as shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, and as will be described
with reference to FIGS. 12G-M. While the use of the band 348 and
connector 352 arrangement is explained with regard to the
application of the fourth and subsequent tubes, it will be
appreciated that the band and connector arrangement might
alternately have been utilized to couple the third tube 344 to the
first and second tubes 338, 342 in lieu of the strap 330 and second
buckle 336 arrangement described above. It is preferable, however,
that the initial dike structure coupled by the strap 330 include
three tubes 338, 342, 344 as disclosed above.
[0073] During expansion of the dike section, a fourth tube 354 is
rolled out parallel to the second tube 342 along the dry side 346
of the dike section as shown in FIG. 12G. Circular bands 348 are
then disposed about tube 354 at positions adjacent the straps 330.
A quick link connector 352 is then placed about the strip 330,
about the second tube 342 and the band 348 about the added, fourth
tube 354. The fourth tube is then inflated with water, as shown in
FIG. 12H.
[0074] A fifth tube 356 is then disposed along the top of the
second and fourth tubes 342, 354 and circular bands 358 disposed
about the fifth tube 356 substantially adjacent the straps 330 and
bands 348. Quick link couplers 360, 362, 364 are used to couple the
band 358 to the strap 330 (about the second and third tubes 342,
344) and the band 348 (about the fourth tube 354), respectively, as
shown in FIG. 121. The fifth tube 356 is then inflated, as shown in
FIG. 12J.
[0075] A sixth tube 366 is then rolled out along the top of the
third and fifth tubes 344, 356 and bands 368 disposed about the
sixth tube 366 adjacent the straps 330 on the third tube 366 and
the bands 358 about the fifth tube 356. As with the fourth and
fifth tubes 354, 356, quick link couplers 370, 372 are used to
couple the band 368 of the sixth tube 366 to the strap 330 (about
the third tube 366) and the band 358 (about the fifth tube 356),
respectively, as shown in FIG. 12K. The sixth tube 366 is then
inflated to form the six-tube pyramid, as shown in FIG. 12L.
[0076] It will be appreciated by those of skill in the art that
additional tubes may be added to further increase the height of the
dike. By adding four additional tubes 374, 375, 376, 377, as shown
schematically in FIG. 12M, for example, the dike can be increased
to ten tubes with a corresponding increase in height. As may be
seen in FIG. 12M, in adding tubes 374-77, additional quick link
couplers 378 are utilized to couple the additional tubes 374-77
together and to the existing six tube pyramid.
[0077] Referring to FIG. 9, it has been found that the functioning
of the dike section 230e can be enhanced by placing a wrap 258a
over the entire length of the dike section. Wrap 258a preferably
extends from at least a portion of the way beneath the dike section
(i.e., between the dike section and the ground surface 37 on which
it is placed) over the containment side of the dike section to a
position above the level of the fluid 260 to be contained.
[0078] Where a greater strength dike is required, another sheet of
substantially liquid-tight material 262 is extended over the
containment side of the dike section to extend out a selected
distance from the dike over the ground surface on which the dike
section is placed. It has been found that for a flow at depths of
about 6 feet, a sheet of material extending about 10 to 15 feet
from the dike increases the strength of the dike.
[0079] It will be apparent that many other changes may be made to
the illustrative embodiments, while falling within the scope of the
invention and it is intended that all such changes be covered by
the claims appended hereto.
* * * * *