U.S. patent application number 12/298834 was filed with the patent office on 2009-05-07 for water storage tank.
This patent application is currently assigned to BLUESCOPE STEEL LIMITED. Invention is credited to Neil Edwin Wallace, Colin Weatherstone.
Application Number | 20090114655 12/298834 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38654978 |
Filed Date | 2009-05-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090114655 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Weatherstone; Colin ; et
al. |
May 7, 2009 |
WATER STORAGE TANK
Abstract
A water storage tank is disclosed. The tank comprises an outer
shell (2) that defines an interior of the tank, at least one water
catchment bag (48) located in the tank interior, at least one inlet
(19) in the outer shell for passage of water into the bag (s), and
at least one outlet (21) in the outer shell for passage of water
from the bag(s). A base for supporting a water storage tank is also
disclosed. The base defines a pallet on which either the other
components of the tank in assembled form or kit form can be
transported from a manufacturing location to an end-use
location.
Inventors: |
Weatherstone; Colin; (New
South Wales, AU) ; Wallace; Neil Edwin; (New South
Wales, AU) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MICHAEL BEST & FRIEDRICH LLP
100 E WISCONSIN AVENUE, Suite 3300
MILWAUKEE
WI
53202
US
|
Assignee: |
BLUESCOPE STEEL LIMITED
Melbourne, Victoria
AU
|
Family ID: |
38654978 |
Appl. No.: |
12/298834 |
Filed: |
April 27, 2007 |
PCT Filed: |
April 27, 2007 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/AU2007/000479 |
371 Date: |
January 21, 2009 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
220/495.05 ;
206/223; 220/219; 220/23.2; 220/495.06; 220/630; 220/650;
220/694 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E03B 3/03 20130101; Y02A
20/106 20180101; B65D 2519/00746 20130101; Y02A 20/108 20180101;
E03B 11/04 20130101; Y02A 20/00 20180101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/495.05 ;
220/495.06; 220/23.2; 220/219; 220/630; 220/694; 220/650;
206/223 |
International
Class: |
E03B 3/03 20060101
E03B003/03 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 28, 2006 |
AU |
2006902181 |
Apr 28, 2006 |
AU |
2006902218 |
Jul 7, 2006 |
AU |
2006903689 |
Aug 21, 2006 |
AU |
2006904551 |
Dec 13, 2006 |
AU |
2006906962 |
Claims
1. A water storage tank, comprising: (a) an outer shell that
defines an interior of the tank, (b) at least one water catchment
bag located in the tank interior, (c) at least one inlet in the
outer shell for passage of water into the bag or at least one of
the bags, and (d) at least one outlet in the outer shell for
passage of water from the bag or at least one of the bags out of
the tank.
2. The tank defined in claim 1 wherein the bag or bags are secured
in position within the interior of the tank.
3. The tank defined in claim 1 wherein the bag or bags are adapted
to withstand substantially the entire hydrostatic load exerted on
the bag or bags when the bag or bags are filled with water.
4. The tank defined in claim 1 wherein the bag or bags are
substantially self-supporting in the interior of the tank.
5. The tank defined in claim 1 comprises a plurality of the bags,
each in an upstanding position, arranged side by side in the
interior of the tank.
6. The tank defined in claim 5 wherein the bags are interconnected
for flow of water from one bag to an adjacent bag.
7. The tank defined in claim 6 wherein the bags comprise openings
in upper and lower sections of walls that interconnect the
bags.
8. The tank defined in claim 1 comprises one bag in an upstanding
position in the interior of the tank that at least substantially
fills the tank interior.
9. The tank defined in claim 8 wherein the single bag comprises a
plurality of spaced-apart partitions that divide the bag into a
plurality of interconnected internal compartments for storing
water.
10. The tank defined in claim 9 wherein the partitions are formed
so that there are upper and lower openings between compartments
that allow water flow between compartments.
11. The tank defined in claim 9 wherein the internal compartments
are configured to permit filling of the compartments at essentially
the same time.
12. The tank defined in claim 1 wherein the outer shell of the tank
comprises a lid which includes the inlet or at least one of the
inlets, and the bag or one of the bags has an opening in a top end
or has an open top end that is located in relation to the inlet to
receive water from the inlet or inlets.
13. The tank defined in claim 1 wherein the bag or bags are formed
from water impermeable polymer-coated multi-ply woven fabric.
14. The tank defined in claim 1 wherein each bag has a capacity of
at least 750 litres, preferably at least 1000 litres.
15. The tank defined in claim 1 comprises a base for supporting the
outer shell and the bag or bags in an operative position of the
tank.
16. The tank defined in claim 15 wherein the base defines a pallet
on which the tank can be transported from a manufacturing location
to an end-use location.
17. The tank defined in claim 15 wherein the base is formed from a
plurality of base modules interlocked together to provide a support
surface on which the bag or bags stand.
18. The tank defined in claim 17 wherein each base module comprises
a body having at least one side for adjoining a side of another
module, and interlocking members in the form of at least two spaced
lugs located at the at least one side to define a shaped region
therebetween, with the shape of the region being such that another
lug located at the other module side can be positioned in the
region between the two spaced lugs in a manner that enables
fastening of the lugs together to thereby join the modules at their
respective adjoining sides.
19. The tank defined in claim 18 wherein the fastening together of
the lugs is enabled by the other lug interfering with the two
spaced lugs.
20. The tank defined in claim 1 comprises at least one outlet
connection fitting for flow of water from the bag or bags.
21. The tank defined in claim 1 comprises at least one overflow
connection fitting for release of excess water from the tank.
22. The tank defined in claim 1 wherein the outer shell of the tank
comprises side walls in the form of a plurality of discrete side
and end panels held together by fasteners.
23. The tank defined in claim 22 wherein the panels are sheet steel
sections.
24. The tank defined in claim 23 wherein the sheet steel sections
are profiled in cross-section to structurally reinforce the walls
of the tank.
25. A kit for assembly of a water storage tank, the kit comprising
a plurality of panels adapted to be fastened together to form an
outer shell of the tank, the outer shell defining an interior space
for at least one water catchment bag for receiving water from an
inlet in the outer shell and storing the water, and wherein the
outer shell and the bag or bags are adapted to be connected
together.
26. A water retention system comprising the water storage tank
defined in claim 1.
27. A method for assembling a water storage tank, comprising: (a)
locating an outer shell of the tank in an upright position, the
outer shell defining an interior of the tank; (b) positioning at
least one water catchment bag within the interior of the tank such
that the bag stands in an upright position for receiving water from
an inlet or at least one inlets in the outer shell; and (c)
connecting the bag or at least one of the bags to an outlet in the
outer shell for passage of water out of the tank.
28. A base for supporting a water storage tank wherein the base
defines a pallet on which either the other components of the tank
in assembled form or kit form can be transported from a
manufacturing location to an end-use location.
29. The base defined in claim 28 comprises one base module that
provides a support surface for the tank or a plurality of base
modules interlocked together to provide a support surface for the
tank.
30. The base defined in claim 29 wherein each base module comprises
peripheral interlocking members interlocked with corresponding
structures on one or more adjacent of the base modules to form a
support surface.
31. The base defined in claim 30 wherein each base module comprises
a body having at least one side for adjoining a side of another
module, and interlocking members in the form of at least two spaced
lugs located at the at least one side to define a shaped region
therebetween, with the shape of the region being such that another
lug located at the other module side can be positioned in the
region between the two spaced lugs in a manner that enables
fastening of the lugs together to thereby join the modules at their
respective adjoining sides.
32. The base defined in claim 31 wherein the fastening together of
the lugs can be enabled by the other lug interfering with the two
spaced lugs.
33. The base defined in claim 29 wherein each base module comprises
an elevated platform.
34. The base defined in claim 33 wherein each base module further
comprises one or more support structures depending downwardly from
the platform for contact with a ground surface to support the
tank.
35. The base defined in claim 34 wherein one or more of the support
structures is hollow and opens to a top side of the platform,
whereby the support structure or structures form cavities in the
platform which can be filled with sand or suitable landfill during
installation of the tank to restrict lateral displacement of the
tank.
36. The base defined in claim 29 wherein the interlocked base
modules define a pallet on which the outer shell and the bag or
bags of the tank can be transported in a kit form from a
manufacturing location to an end-use location.
37. A base adapted to support a water storage tank, the base
comprising a plurality of the base modules defined in claim 29
interlocked together to provide a support surface for the tank.
38. A base module for the assembly of a base adapted to support a
water storage tank, the base module comprising interlocking members
arranged to interlock with corresponding structures on one or more
further of the base modules to provide at least part of support
surface for placement of the tank.
39. The base module defined in claim 38 wherein each base module
comprises a body having at least one side for adjoining a side of
another module, and interlocking members in the form of at least
two spaced lugs located at the at least one side to define a shaped
region therebetween, with the shape of the region being such that
another lug located at the other module side can be positioned in
the region between the two spaced lugs in a manner that enables
fastening of the lugs together to thereby join the modules at their
respective adjoining sides.
40. The base module defined in claim 39 wherein the fastening
together of the lugs can be enabled by the other lug interfering
with the two spaced lugs.
41. A water storage system for a water storage tank comprising: (a)
at least one water catchment bag adapted to be secured in position
within an interior of an outer shell of the tank so as to stand in
an essentially upright position; (b) at least one inlet opening for
entry of water into the bag or at least one of the bags; and (c) at
least one outlet for flow of water from the bag or at least one of
the bags.
42. A water storage system for a water storage tank comprising: an
outer shell and a plurality of water catchment bags arranged side
by side relative to one another within the interior of the outer
shell so as to stand in an upright position, wherein the bags are
interconnected for flow of water from one bag to an adjacent bag,
at least one of the bags has an inlet opening for entry of water
into the bags, and at least one of the bags has an outlet opening
for flow of water from the bags.
43. A water storage tank, comprising: (a) an outer shell that
defines an interior of the tank, (b) at least one substantially
self-supporting water catchment bag located in the tank interior,
(c) at least one inlet in the outer shell for passage of water into
the bag or at least one of the bags, and (d) at least one outlet in
the outer shell for passage of water from the bag or at least one
of the bags out of the tank.
44. A water storage tank, comprising: (a) an outer shell that
defines an interior of the tank, (b) a plurality of water catchment
bags, each in an upstanding position, arranged side by side in the
tank interior, (c) at least one inlet in the outer shell for
passage of water into the bag or at least one of the bags, and (d)
at least one outlet in the outer shell for passage of water from
the bag or at least one of the bags out of the tank.
45. A water storage tank, comprising: (a) an outer shell that
defines an interior of the tank, (b) one water catchment bag in an
upstanding position in the tank interior that at least
substantially fills the tank interior and comprises a plurality of
spaced-apart partitions that divide the bag into a plurality of
interconnected internal compartments for storing water, (c) at
least one inlet in the outer shell for passage of water into the
bag or at least one of the bags, and (d) at least one outlet in the
outer shell for passage of water from the bag or at least one of
the bags out of the tank.
46. A water storage tank, comprising: (a) an outer shell that
defines an interior of the tank, (b) at least one water catchment
bag located in the tank interior, (c) at least one inlet in the
outer shell for passage of water into the bag or at least one of
the bags, (d) at least one outlet in the outer shell for passage of
water from the bag or at least one of the bags out of the tank, and
(e) a base for supporting the outer shell and the bag or bags in an
operative position of the tank, and wherein the base defines a
pallet on which the tank can be transported from a manufacturing
location to an end-use location.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a water storage tank.
Embodiments of the water storage tank find application, though not
exclusively, for catchment and storage of rainwater in domestic and
rural settings.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Tanks are commonly used for collecting rainwater runoff from
roofs in domestic and rural settings via downpipes for storage of
the water to supplement mains water supply and other freshwater
sources. In many localities, it is a requirement for new dwellings
under construction or extensions to existing dwellings to include a
water storage tank.
[0003] Conventionally, such tanks have a rounded profile and are
bulky, the diameter of a tank being largely dependent on its water
holding capacity. Such tanks are sealed to provide an interior
volume for the reception and storage of water, and include steel
tanks and tanks fabricated from plastics materials.
[0004] For many sites, it is necessary to provide adequate
stormwater retention. A typical stormwater retention system is
designed to collect large volumes of rainwater and allow for its
gradual controlled seepage into sand or aggregate, or flow to some
other drainage system. Such stormwater retention systems may
comprise a tank for the temporary storage of the water pending its
controlled release from the system.
[0005] However, the installation of an above ground water storage
tank requires considerable space to be available at a site for
placement of the tank. The bulkiness of conventional cylindrical
tanks also requires a large amount of space for their storage and
transport. Moreover, the peripheral walls of such tanks provide the
requisite structural rigidity to the tanks. As such, it is
necessary to fabricate the tanks from relatively heavy gauge
material which increases fabrication costs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention provides a water storage tank,
comprising:
[0007] (a) an outer shell that defines an interior of the tank,
[0008] (b) at least one water catchment bag located in the tank
interior,
[0009] (c) at least one inlet in the outer shell for passage of
water into the or bag at least one of the bags, and
[0010] (d) at least one outlet in the outer shell for passage of
water from the bag or at least one of the bags out of the tank.
[0011] By using the bag or bags to collect and store water, the
outer shell of the tank need not be sealed for retention of water.
Moreover, the bag or bags may be arranged in a standing,
self-supporting position within the outer shell of the tank to
thereby provide their own structural support independently of the
shell when the bag or bags are filled with water in use. This
allows the outer shell of the tank to be relatively thin-walled
with a concomitant saving in the cost of materials used for its
fabrication.
[0012] Preferably the bag or bags are secured in position within
the interior of the tank to retain the bag or bags in a
substantially upright position.
[0013] Preferably the bag or bags are adapted to withstand
substantially the entire hydrostatic load exerted on the bag or
bags when the bag or bags are filled with water.
[0014] Preferably the bag or bags are substantially self-supporting
in the interior of the tank.
[0015] The term "self-supporting" is understood herein to mean that
the bag or bags do not require the outer shell of the tank to
support the bag or bags in an upright position when filled with
water.
[0016] The tank may comprise a plurality of the bags, each in an
upstanding position, arranged side by side in the interior of the
tank.
[0017] Preferably the bags are interconnected for flow of water
from one bag to an adjacent bag.
[0018] Preferably the bags comprise openings in upper and lower
sections of walls that interconnect the bags.
[0019] The tank may comprise one bag in an upstanding position in
the interior of the tank that at least substantially fills the tank
interior.
[0020] Preferably the single bag comprises a plurality of
spaced-apart partitions that divide the bag into a plurality of
interconnected internal compartments for storing water.
[0021] Preferably the partitions are formed so that there are upper
and lower openings between compartments that allow water flow
between compartments.
[0022] Preferably the internal compartments are configured to
permit filling of the compartments at essentially the same
time.
[0023] The bag or bags can be formed from any suitable polymeric
material.
[0024] Preferably the tank is elongate, with parallel side walls
and curved end walls, with the length of the side walls being
greater than the spacing between the side walls.
[0025] With this arrangement, preferably the tank comprises a
plurality of the bags, each in an upstanding position, positioned
side by side in a line in the tank interior.
[0026] Preferably the outer shell of the tank comprises a lid which
includes the inlet or at least one of the inlets, and the bag or
one of the bags has an opening in a top end or has an open top end
that is located in relation to the inlet to receive water from the
inlet or inlets.
[0027] Typically, the bag or bags are formed from water impermeable
polymer-coated multi-ply woven fabric.
[0028] Suitable polymer materials for the coating and the fabric
include polyethylene and polyester.
[0029] Preferably each bag has a capacity of at least 750 litres,
more preferably at least 1000 litres.
[0030] The tank may be positioned on an in situ on-site concrete or
cement slab or concrete pavers.
[0031] Preferably the tank comprises a purpose-built base for
supporting the outer shell and the bag or bags in an operative
position.
[0032] Preferably the base closes the outer shell to prevent access
of the tank interior to vermin.
[0033] The base may be formed from a plurality of base modules
interlocked together to provide a support surface on which the bag
or bags stand.
[0034] Preferably each base module comprises a body having at least
one side for adjoining a side of another module, and interlocking
members in the form of at least two spaced lugs located at the at
least one side to define a shaped region therebetween, with the
shape of the region being such that another lug located at the
other module side can be positioned in the region between the two
spaced lugs in a manner that enables fastening of the lugs together
to thereby join the modules at their respective adjoining
sides.
[0035] In one form the fastening together of the lugs can be
enabled by the other lug interfering with the two spaced lugs. In
other words, a separate fastener is not required.
[0036] Preferably the interlocked base modules define a pallet on
which the tank can be transported from a manufacturing location to
an end-use location.
[0037] Preferably the base defines a pallet on which the tank can
be transported from a manufacturing location to an end-use
location.
[0038] The tank may comprise at least one outlet connection fitting
for flow of water from the bag or bags.
[0039] The tank may comprise at least one overflow connection
fitting for release of excess water from the tank.
[0040] The outer shell of the tank may comprise side walls in the
form of a plurality of discrete side and end panels held together
by fasteners.
[0041] Preferably the panels are sheet steel sections.
[0042] More preferably the sheet steel sections are profiled in
cross-section to structurally reinforce the walls of the tank.
[0043] The panels of the outer shell and the bag or bags can be
"flat packed", thereby allowing the tank to be stored and
transported in a kit form and assembled on site at an end-use
location.
[0044] Preferably the "kit" tanks are constructed so that the
panels and the bag or bags of a tank can be packed and transported
on a base on which the tank may be ultimately assembled. Hence, the
base may be used as a pallet on which the remainder of the
components of the tank can be stacked for transport to an end-use
location, preferably wrapped in polyethylene or other protective
film to retain the components of the tank together and for
protection of the components. Each component can also be
individually carried to difficult to access locations compared to
conventional integrally formed water storage tanks, which can
substantially reduce transportation and installation costs in such
circumstances.
[0045] In general terms, in the context of "kit" tanks, the present
invention provides a kit for assembly of a water storage tank, the
kit comprising a plurality of panels adapted to be fastened
together to form an outer shell of the tank, the outer shell
defining an interior space for at least one water catchment bag for
receiving water from an inlet in the outer shell and storing the
water, and wherein the outer shell and the bag or bags are adapted
to be connected together.
[0046] An alternative option to the above-described "kit" tank
option is an integrally-formed, factory assembled tank that is
transported as an assembled tank. Tanks of this type are referred
to herein as "factory assembled" tanks.
[0047] Typically, the tank is adapted to hold at least 750 litres.
There will be situations in which tanks of 750 litres will be
required. There will also be situations in which tanks holding
larger volumes of water will be required. Tanks sizes of at least
5500 litres or more are contemplated.
[0048] The above-described tank of the present invention may be
utilised as a water retention system.
[0049] The term "water retention" as used herein in the context of
a water retention system is meant the temporary storage of water
accumulated in the system pending gradual or controlled release
from the system for use in a domestic sense for consumption in
drinking, washing of clothes, flushing of toilets, showering or
bathing, watering of gardens or lawns, washing of cars or hard
surfaces or in a rural sense for watering of land or animals or any
other conceivable application that water has in both a domestic or
rural sense or discharged to a water catchment pit or pits or a
drainage system or systems.
[0050] Preferably, the water retention system is a rainwater
retention system for the provision of a supplementary water
supply.
[0051] The term "water" as used herein is understood in the
broadest sense to include stormwater, rainwater, sewage, effluent
and combinations thereof unless otherwise specified.
[0052] Hence, the present invention also provides a water retention
system comprising the above-described water storage tank.
[0053] The present invention also provides a method for assembling
a water storage tank, comprising:
[0054] (a) locating an outer shell of the tank in an upright
position, the outer shell defining an interior of the tank;
[0055] (b) positioning at least one water catchment bag within the
interior of the tank such that the bag stands in an upright
position for receiving water from an inlet or at least one inlet in
the outer shell; and
[0056] (c) connecting the bag or at least one of the bags to an
outlet in the outer shell for passage of water out of the tank.
[0057] The present invention also provides a base for supporting a
water storage tank wherein the base defines a pallet on which
either the other components of the tank in assembled form or kit
form can be transported from a manufacturing location to an end-use
location,
[0058] The base may comprise one base module that provides a
support surface for the tank.
[0059] Alternatively, the base may comprise a plurality of base
modules interlocked together to provide a support surface for the
tank.
[0060] Preferably each base module comprises peripheral
interlocking members interlocked with corresponding structures on
one or more adjacent of the base modules to form a support
surface.
[0061] Preferably each base module comprises a body having at least
one side for adjoining a side of another module, and interlocking
members in the form of at least two spaced lugs located at the at
least one side to define a shaped region therebetween, with the
shape of the region being such that another lug located at the
other module side can be positioned in the region between the two
spaced lugs in a manner that enables fastening of the lugs together
to thereby join the modules at their respective adjoining
sides.
[0062] In one form the fastening together of the lugs can be
enabled by the other lug interfering with the two spaced lugs. In
other words, a separate fastener is not required.
[0063] Preferably each base module comprises an elevated
platform.
[0064] Preferably each base module further comprises one or more
support structures depending downwardly from the platform for
contact with a ground surface to support the tank.
[0065] Preferably one or more of the support structures is hollow
and opens to a top side of the platform. The support structure or
structures thereby form cavities in the platform which can be
filled with sand or suitable landfill during installation of the
tank to restrict lateral displacement of the tank when
assembled.
[0066] Preferably the interlocked base modules define a pallet on
which the outer shell and the bag or bags of the tank can be
transported in a kit form from a manufacturing location to an
end-use location.
[0067] The present invention also provides a base adapted to
support a water storage tank, the base comprising a plurality of
base modules described above that are interlocked together to
provide a support surface for the tank.
[0068] The present invention also provides a base module for the
assembly of a base adapted to support a water storage tank, the
base module comprising interlocking members arranged to interlock
with corresponding structures on one or more further of the base
modules to provide at least part of support surface for placement
of the tank.
[0069] Preferably each base module comprises a body having at least
one side for adjoining a side of another module, and interlocking
members in the form of at least two spaced lugs located at the at
least one side to define a shaped region therebetween, with the
shape of the region being such that another lug located at the
other module side can be positioned in the region between the two
spaced lugs in a manner that enables fastening of the lugs together
to thereby join the modules at their respective adjoining
sides.
[0070] In one form the fastening together of the lugs can be
enabled by the other lug interfering with the two spaced lugs. In
other words, a separate fastener is not required.
[0071] The present invention also provides a water storage system
for a water storage tank comprising:
[0072] (a) at least one water catchment bag adapted to be secured
in position within an interior of an outer shell of the tank so as
to stand in an essentially upright position;
[0073] (b) at least one inlet opening for entry of water into the
bag or at least one of the bags; and
[0074] (c) at least one outlet for flow of water from the bag or at
least one of the bags.
[0075] The present invention also provides a water storage system
for a water storage tank comprising an outer shell and a plurality
of water catchment bags arranged side by side relative to one
another within the interior of the outer shell so as to stand in an
upright position, wherein the bags are interconnected for flow of
water from one bag to an adjacent bag, at least one of the bags has
an inlet opening for entry of water into the bags, and at least one
of the bags has an outlet opening for flow of water from the
bags.
[0076] Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices,
articles or the like which has been included in this specification
is solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present
invention. It is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of
these matters form part of the prior art base or were common
general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention as
it existed in Australia or elsewhere before the priority date of
this application.
[0077] Throughout this specification the word "comprise", or
variations thereof such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be
understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or
step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the
exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of
elements, integers or steps.
[0078] The features and advantages of the present invention will
become further apparent from the following detailed description of
preferred embodiments together with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS
[0079] The present invention is described further by way of example
with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:
[0080] FIG. 1 is a side view of an outer shell of one embodiment of
a water storage tank of the present invention;
[0081] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the lid of the outer shell of the
water storage tank of FIG. 1 showing the slim, elongate profile of
the tank;
[0082] FIG. 3 is an end view of the outer shell of the water
storage tank of FIG. 1;
[0083] FIG. 4 is an end view of a bolt cover strip for covering a
joint between panels of the outer shell of the water storage tank
of FIG. 1;
[0084] FIGS. 5A to 5C respectively show plan, front and side views
of a base module of a base for the outer shell shown in FIG. 1;
[0085] FIG. 6 is an isometric view of two base modules of FIG. 5
when assembled together to form a knockdown pallet;
[0086] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of one embodiment of water
catchment bags in the form of bags of the water storage tank of
FIG. 1;
[0087] FIG. 8 is a top view of the bags of FIG. 7;
[0088] FIG. 9 is a partial side view showing the interconnection of
a bottom region of the bags of FIG. 7 in an empty condition for
passage of water from one bag to the next bag;
[0089] FIG. 10 is a side view of an outer shell of another,
although not the only other, embodiment of a water storage tank of
the present invention;
[0090] FIG. 11 is a plan view of the lid of the outer shell of the
water storage tank of FIG. 10;
[0091] FIG. 12 is an end view of the outer shell of the water
storage tank of FIG. 10;
[0092] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another, although not the
only possible other, embodiment of water catchment bags in the form
of bags of the water storage tank of FIG. 10 which is partially cut
away to show the interconnection and more particularly the openings
between adjacent bags that allow passage of water from one bag to
the next bag; and
[0093] FIG. 14 is a cross-section along the line 14-14 in FIG. 10
which shows the location of the bags shown in FIG. 13 in the
tank.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0094] Each embodiment of the water storage tank in accordance with
the present invention shown in the Figures comprises an outer shell
2 that defines an interior of the tank, a plurality of
self-supporting water catchment bags 48 located in the tank
interior, at least one inlet 19 in the outer shell for passage of
water into the bags, at least one outlet 21 in the outer shell for
passage of water from the bags out of the tank, and a base
supporting the outer shell and the bags.
[0095] An outer shell 2 of one embodiment of the water storage tank
4 in accordance with the present invention is shown in FIG. 1.
[0096] The outer shell 2 comprises end and side panels 6 and 8 that
are fabricated from thin-walled (0.55 mm) corrugated steel and a
lid 16 fabricated from thin-walled steel.
[0097] The end and side panels 6 and 8 overlap and are respectively
secured together by fasteners in the form of galvanised bolts
received in aligned apertures defined in the panels, thereby
forming joints generally indicated by the numeral 10 on each side
of the outer shell 2.
[0098] Generally, the outer shell 2 of the tank has a width of from
about 400 mm to about 1,500 mm but not necessarily restricted to
this range and more preferably from about 550 mm to about 1,180 mm.
The length of the outer shell will typically be in a range of from
about 1,400 mm to about 3,600 mm and more preferably, from about
550 mm to about 1,180 mm in width. The height of the outer shell
will typically be in a range of from about 1,300 mm to about 2,500
mm and more preferably, from about 1,540 mm to about 1,860 mm.
[0099] The top of each panel 6, 8 is provided with an outwardly
directed flange 14 to permit attachment of the lid 16 of the outer
shell 2 shown in FIG. 2. The lid 16 is secured to the flange 14 of
each of the end and side panels 6 and 8 by bolts received in
further aligned apertures equidistantly spaced around the lid 16
and flanges 14 of the panels.
[0100] A lid support member 18 in the form of a rib indicated in
phantom outline is secured to the underside surface of the lid 16
by screws driven into the rib from the top side of the lid. The rib
18 is bowed providing a slight curvature in the lid for runoff of
rainwater.
[0101] The outer shell 2 of the water storage tank 4 has a slim,
elongate profile allowing the tank to be located alongside a
residential dwelling under an eave of the dwelling such that the
tank is relatively unobtrusive and at least partly covered by the
eave. However, it will be understood a tank embodied by the
invention may be located distantly from the dwelling and fully
exposed to the weather.
[0102] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, a bolt cover 20 is secured to the
outer shell 2 over each joint 10 to obscure the bolts used to
fasten the panels together. The bolt cover 20 is held in position
by a galvanized steel clamping strip disposed in the void 21 of the
bolt cover. The clamping strip has threaded apertures spaced apart
along its length which receive the shafts of the bolts and sandwich
the opposing inwardly directed flanges 22 of the cover strip 20
against the exterior face of the outer shell 2.
[0103] The end and side panels 6 and 8 of the outer shell 2 are
each provided with an outwardly directed flange 15 at their bottom
edge, with spaced apart apertures through which the outer shell is
fastened to the base by further fasteners in the form of
screws.
[0104] Typically, the end and side panels 6 and 8 of the outer
shell 2 and the lid 16 are either coated with a zinc aluminium
alloy or zinc only to protect against corrosion. Other alternatives
include pre-painted variants of either material or a polymer coated
metal base product. Any suitable corrosion resistant coating can be
employed and any suitable substrate can be used.
[0105] The external faces of the panels 6, 8 and the lid 16 of the
outer shell 2 may also optionally have a paint finish.
[0106] Suitable corrugated steel strip for fabricating the end and
side panels 6 and 8 of the outer shell 2 is commercially available
under the trade marks Zincalume.RTM., Colorbond.RTM.,
Zincform.RTM., and Aquaplate.RTM. from BlueScope Steel Limited.,
Exposed fasteners used in the assembly of the outer shell may also
have a matching paint finish.
[0107] While corrugated steel strip is preferred, it will be
understood that the outer shell 2 of the tank can be fabricated
from any material deemed suitable, such as high density
polyethylene ("HDPE") or other suitable polymeric materials.
[0108] The tank inlet 19 comprises an inlet/strainer assembly (not
shown) in the lid 16 to permit entry of rainwater from an overhead
downpipe of the dwelling into the tank.
[0109] The tank outlet 21 is in a lower section of the outer shell
2 at one end of the shell. The outlet 21 is connected to the bag 48
at that end.
[0110] The tank 4 also comprises a multi-component overflow outlet
27 that is plumbed to a drainage system in an upper region of the
tank.
[0111] The outer shell 2 of the tank 4 is not sealed and,
therefore, water storage by the tank is achieved entirely by the
water catchment bags 48.
[0112] With reference to FIGS. 7 to 9, the water catchment bags 48
of the tank 4 are in the form of self-supporting bags 48 arranged
side by side relative to one another for collecting and storing
water entering the tank. The bags 48 shown have a "sausage like"
formation when filled with water and are fabricated from
essentially water impermeable polymer-coated multi-ply woven
fabric, although any other suitable such plastics material may be
utilised. The seams of each respective bag 48 are heat welded
together to seal the sides and bottom of each from leakage.
[0113] A first one of the bags 48 is arranged under the
inlet/strainer assembly in the lid 16 of the outer shell 2 of the
tank 4 to collect the water entering the tank. The other bags 48
are positioned side by side in a line within the tank interior.
[0114] Material tags 52 are provided on the bags 48 to connect the
bags 48 to the outer shell 2 and hold the bags in a substantially
upright condition against collapse when empty.
[0115] However, it is not necessary that the bags 48 be provided
with tags, and any suitable means for attaching the bags to the top
region of the outer shell to retain the bags in a substantially
upright condition for filling with water may be utilised. For
instance, each bag 48 may be provided with an endless cord (not
shown) received in a draw seam provided around the top end of the
bag. In this embodiment, the cord protrudes from openings in the
seam at spaced apart locations along the seam, for being looped
over hook elements (not shown) secured to the outer shell. Further
still, a frame structure (not shown) can be secured to the interior
of the outer shell 2 or otherwise be provided within the outer
shell for the attachment of the bags 48 to retain the bags upright
when empty or the water level in the bags falls.
[0116] The top and the bottom regions of the bags 48 are
interconnected for flow of water from one bag to the next, i.e.
adjacent, through respective water openings (not shown). The water
openings are formed by heat welding adjacent bags 48 together and
cutting out the material of the bags within the welded area.
[0117] Rather than water openings as described, alternate means may
be employed to interconnect adjacent bags 48 together to permit the
flow of water through the bags.
[0118] The bags 48 are arranged and dimensioned to fit snugly
within the interior of the tank 4 defined by the outer shell 2 of
the tank when the bags are filled to capacity with water. The bags
are essentially inelastic and provide the principal structural
support for the tank when containing water.
[0119] When the bags 48 are empty or the level of water in them has
fallen to a relatively low level, the outer shell 2 provides the
principal structural support for the tank.
[0120] The bags 48 are dimensioned to abut respective of the end
and side panels 6 and 8 of the outer shell 2 when filled with water
to capacity, and thereby substantially fill the interior volume of
the tank, and are formed so as not to expand to an extent that
deforms the outer shell 2,
[0121] For "factory assembled" tanks, the bags 48 can be folded
flat and flat-packed and transported to the factory site and stored
until such time that they are assembled within the outer shell 2
along with the lid 16 and the fittings 19, 21, 27 to form a fully
built-up factory assembled tank 4.
[0122] The dimensions and number of the bags 48 will vary depending
on the internal dimensions of the outer shell 2 of the water
storage tank. The bags 48 are generally tubular in form with a
relatively small circumference relative to height. Normally also,
the bags of a tank 4 embodied by the present invention hold a
combined volume of from about 750 litres to about 5,500 litres of
water but with the flexibility to address both smaller and higher
volumes in the volume range should the market demand such
configurations.
[0123] In an alternate form, the bag 48 is a single bag that at
least substantially occupies the tank interior and has discrete
internal compartments (not shown) orientated in a lengthwise
direction of the bag that are formed by one or more longitudinal
welds spaced apart across the bag to reduce water pressure exerted
on the side seams(s) of the bag. In this embodiment, the weld(s) do
not extend completely to the bottom of the bag 48 and thereby allow
filling and emptying of each of the internal compartments at
essentially the same time and for flow of the water between the
compartments. Similarly, the weld(s) do not extend to the top of
the bag. In another form, the internal compartments may be formed
by divider panel(s) heat welded in position within the bag to the
front and rear sides of the bag. The divider panels may have one or
more openings provided therein to permit water flow between the
compartments allowing the divider panels to extend completely to
the bottom of the bags 48.
[0124] It will be understood from the foregoing description that
the bags 48 carry the outward pressure arising from the water held
within the bags. Thus, the bags when filled with water will stand
freely on their own and do not rely on the outer shell 2 of the
tank 4 to maintain an upright position. That is, the bags 48
require essentially no structural support from the outer shell 2
when filled with water, the bags themselves being sufficiently
strong to withstand the entire hydrostatic load exerted on the bags
by the contained water.
[0125] Normally, the hydrostatic load will be shared by the bags 48
and the outer shell 2 of the tank 4, with substantially all if not
all of the pressure being accommodated by the bags. In other
embodiments, the bags are disposed and dimensioned to be spaced
from side walls of the tank when the bags 48 are filled with water.
In such embodiments, the bags may for instance be tied or otherwise
secured to overhead brackets (not shown) supported by opposite side
walls 6 of the outer shell to retain the bags upright when empty or
the water level in the bags falls although, any alternative means
for retaining the bags in a substantially upright condition when
empty may also be employed.
[0126] The outer shell 2 and the bags 48 stand on a purpose-built
base.
[0127] The base defines a pallet on which either the other
components of the tank in assembled form or kit form can be
transported from a manufacturing location to an end-use
location.
[0128] The base comprises one base module that provides a support
surface for the tank or a plurality of base modules interlocked
together to provide a support surface for the tank.
[0129] FIGS. 5 and 6 show a base that comprises a plurality of
interlocking base modules 24.
[0130] The construction of the base modules 24 is such that the
base can be utilised as a pallet on which the bags 48 and the end
and side panels 6 and 8 of the tank 4 can be packed, the resulting
bundle can be wrapped in polythene film for storage and transport
purposes. Hence, the tank may conveniently be provided in the form
of a kit for assembly at the site of installation.
[0131] Each base module 24 is fabricated from high density
polyethylene ("HDPE") or other suitable material and has a platform
127 and peripheral interlocking members which interlock the base
modules 24 together.
[0132] The base is formed by four of the base modules 24 arranged
to form a rectangular unitary structure interlocked together
against lateral separation by virtue of the reception of the
interlocking members.
[0133] With reference to FIG. 5, each base module 24 comprises a
generally rectangular body portion 112 having four sides 114A-114D,
with each side being adapted for close facing engagement (or
joining) with a side of another like rectangular base module 24
(see FIG. 6).
[0134] The base module 24 shown in FIG. 5 comprises interlocking
members in the form of three spaced lugs 116A-C that protrude from
side 114A and four spaced lugs 116A-D that protrude from side 114B.
The three spaced lugs 116A-C respectively define two shaped regions
118 therebetween and the four spaced lugs 116A-D respectively
define three shaped regions 118 therebetween. The interlocking
members of the base module 24 also comprises two spaced dovetail
shaped lugs 120A and 120B that protrude from the side 114C and
three spaced dovetail shaped lugs 120A to 120C that protrude from
the side 114D. The sides 114C and 114D are each recessed with
respect to respective overhanging lip portions 122A and 122B, with
each lip portion being defined by a continuation (integral
projection) of the body portion 112. Lugs 120A and 120B again
define a dovetail shaped area 126 therebetween and lugs 120A to
120C define two dovetail shaped areas 126 therebetween.
[0135] When the lugs 116 or 120 lug of a first base module 24 are
inter-engaged with corresponding lugs of other like base modules
24, the lug surfaces that inter-engage can each be provided with
corresponding inclinations (eg. of 32.8.degree.) to an imaginary
line L (FIG. 5) that extends orthogonally with respect to the upper
surface 127. This corresponding inclination at the adjacent lug
inter-engaged faces provides a further degree of interlocking and
for a greater degree of intermeshing between the lugs to further
enhance the self-locking functionality of the base modules 24,
thereby improving the structural properties of a resultant pallet
formed from the base modules 24. It also means that a given base
module 24 can be joined/detached to another only by maneuvering it
in a particular manner (eg. by lifting it up and away from the
other base module 24).
[0136] FIG. 5A also illustrates the angle (ie. 60.degree.)
subtended by each dovetail lug side face and its respective
side.
[0137] For a base formed from the base modules 24, from FIG. 3 it
will be seen that the legs are defined on each base module 24 such
that, when two or more base modules 24 sides are joined, the legs
of the first base module 24 are positioned adjacent to the legs of
a second base module 24. This leg arrangement provides for an
additional combined leg support to the resultant pallet.
[0138] Also, a base formed from the base modules 24 usually
comprises four such base modules 24 that are connected together in
use to define a square or rectangular pallet respectively. However,
other base shapes comprising two or more like or different base
modules 24 can be easily assembled.
[0139] While in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-9 the base is
formed from four base modules 24, in other embodiments, a different
number of the base modules may be utilised.
[0140] Another embodiment of a water storage tank 4 in accordance
with the present invention is shown in FIGS. 10-14. The tank 4 is
the same basic construction as the tank shown in FIGS. 1 to 9 and
the same reference numerals are used to identify the same
structural features.
[0141] With reference to FIGS. 10-14, the outer shell 2 of the tank
4 is constructed from one or a series of corrugated (0.6 mm BMT
typically but not restricted to) steel sheets that are curved at
each end of the sheet, have straight sections before and after each
of the curves and are joined in an overlap joint typically by
rivets, or other fasteners, or joining techniques (such as welding
and adhesives) to form an oval-shaped form.
[0142] The outer shell 2 of the tank 4 has a slim, elongate profile
allowing the tank to be located alongside a residential dwelling
under an eave of the dwelling such that the tank is relatively
unobtrusive and at least partly covered by the eave. It will be
understood that a tank in accordance with the present invention may
be located away from the dwelling and fully exposed to the
weather.
[0143] With reference to FIG. 11, the tank inlet 19 comprises two
inlet/strainer assemblies 19 in the lid 16 to permit entry of
rainwater from overhead downpipes of the dwelling into the tank.
Each inlet/strainer assembly 19 comprises a circular polypropylene
frame ("PP") fastened by quick release bayonet fastenings to a
retaining ring (also of PP) on the periphery of an inlet opening in
the lid 16. Each inlet/strainer assembly 19 supports a stainless
steel mesh to filter detritus from entering the tank. The retaining
ring in turn is fastened via quick release bayonet fittings to a
welded ring of polyethylene (PE) which is in turn welded to the bag
48 at that end of the tank. Additionally, the retaining ring is
affixed to the welded ring through the body of the tank lid 16 via
a number of corrosion resistance fasteners.
[0144] With reference to FIGS. 13 and 14, the tank 4 comprises a
plurality of water catchment bags 48 in the form of self-supporting
bags 48 arranged side by side relative to one another in upstanding
positions for collecting and storing water entering the tank 4.
[0145] The bags are similar to the bags 48 shown in FIGS. 7 to 9
and, like those bags, are fabricated from essentially water
impermeable polymer-coated multi-ply, woven fabric. Suitable
materials for the coating and the fabric include polyethylene and
polyester.
[0146] The Figures show that the bags 48 have closed top and bottom
ends (as viewed in the Figures). In addition, the Figures show that
the bags 48 have openings 64 in upper and lower sections of the
common walls between adjacent bags 48 that allow water to flow
between the bags.
[0147] The tank outlet 21 for allowing water to be released from
the bags 48 is in the form of an outlet fitting that is plumbed to
a stop cock valve for release of water from the bags 48. The outlet
21 is in a lower region of the tank 4. The outlet 21 comprises a
zinc metal diecast threaded fitting that passes through a hole cut
into the outer tank shell and is connected via a series of plastic
and over-moulded metal/plastic components to a PE outlet spigot
having a flange that is heat welded in a corresponding position to
one of the bags.
[0148] The tank 4 also comprises a multi-component overflow outlet
27 that is plumbed to a drainage system in an upper region of the
tank in a similar manner. The overflow is made entirely out of
plastic components, with a welded ring in polyethylene ("PE") for
compatibility with the PE liner, an overflow body of polyvinyl
chloride ("PVC") for solvent weldability to standard plumbing and
drainage pipes, and fittings and a retaining ring made from
polypropylene ("PP"). The flow capacities for respective connection
fittings are determined depending on specific site conditions and
requirements.
[0149] The tank 4 may also be used with the base shown in FIGS. 5
and 6.
[0150] The above-described embodiments of the water storage tank in
accordance with the present invention have considerable advantages
over conventional water tanks.
[0151] By way of example, the outer shell of the tank is relatively
lightweight compared to conventional tanks and can be handled more
easily by workmen. In addition, the outer shell of the tank does
not have to be a structural, water tight tank and this reduces
fabrication costs. Furthermore, the "kit" option for the tank makes
the tank a readily transportable product.
[0152] While a number of embodiments of the water storage tanks in
accordance with the present invention have been described, it will
be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that numerous
variations and/or modifications may be made to the invention
without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as
broadly described. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be
considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.
* * * * *