Earthen Bottom Patents (Class 405/46)
  • Patent number: 7217063
    Abstract: Two identical arch shape cross section chambers are joined together so that a dome shape part of one end of the chamber is overlapped by the opposing plain end of the second chamber. Thus, one chamber may pivot in the horizontal plane, for adjustment during installation. A latch at the top of the joint between the chamber pair inhibits vertical motion and separation of the overlapping chamber, while permitting horizontal plane pivoting. A latch comprises a tang which cantilevers outwardly from the top of the dome end, to engage a catch which is a flared portion of lip on the overlapping plain end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: Infiltrator Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Roy E. Moore, Jr., Ronald P. Brochu
  • Patent number: 7189027
    Abstract: A continuous curve arch shape cross section leaching chamber made of molded thermoplastic has closely spaced corrugations and sidewalls which are perforated with slots which slope downwardly, running from interior to exterior of the chamber. The slot height and or wall thickness vary with slot clevation from the base, to achieve a desired minimum Soil Threshold Angle in the slots, where said Angle parameter relates to resistance to entry of surrounding soil. Slotted wall thickness is less than about two times the thickness of the basic chamber wall thickness elsewhere. The chamber has properties and performance approximating prior art chambers, but has substantially less normalized weight and total weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: Infiltrator Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald P. Brochu, James J. Burnes, John R. Battye, Roy E. Moore, Jr., Bryan A. Coppes
  • Patent number: 7160059
    Abstract: An adjustable coupler is disclosed for interconnecting leaching chambers to create a serpentine pathway for a leaching field. A coupler can connect a first leaching chamber and a second leaching chamber. The coupler can comprise a mating feature and an adjustment feature. The mating feature can be used to mate the coupler between the first leaching chamber and the second leaching chamber. The mating feature can include a swivel connector matable to an end of one of the chambers. The adjustment feature can adjust the angle between the first chamber and the second chamber between a range of angles. The adjustment feature can include a swivel connector. The range of angles can be particularly chosen to be about 45°. More particularly, the range of angles can be about 22.5° in either the clockwise or counter-clockwise direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: PSA, Inc.
    Inventors: Kristen K. Hedstrom, Terrance H. Gray, William V. Shaffer
  • Patent number: 7118306
    Abstract: Disclosed is a fluid, namely stormwater, management system employing a chamber having an overall substantially constant curve cross-sectional geometry, with an a-semicircular constant curve cross-sectional geometry preferred. This chamber, which preferably follows both AASHTO standard specifications for Highway Bridges, Section 18, and Corrugated Polyethylene Pipe Association (CCPA) specifications, can further comprise corregations, support members and/or connecting elements to further add structural integrity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Infiltrator Systems, INC
    Inventors: Kurt J. Kruger, Bryan A. Coppes, Jonathan F. Smith, Raymond Connors
  • Patent number: 7033108
    Abstract: A perforated pipe network beneath a playing surface. A blower connected to the pipe network drawing an air flow through the pipe network to create a vacuum. A drain pipe connecting to the pipe network. An air/water separator connected upstream of the blower for separating water from the air flow prior to entering the blower and channeling the water into the drain pipe for discharge. A flow control unit having a unit inlet connected to the drain pipe downstream of the air/water separator and a unit outlet discharging water to a drain outlet. The flow control unit blocking air flow through the unit inlet into the drain pipe when the blower is in the vacuum mode, and opening the unit inlet when a waterhead buildup at the unit inlet exceeds the vacuum level established by the blower to discharge water through the drain outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: SubAir Systems, LLC
    Inventors: George T. Hummert, Fredrick O. Hartenstein
  • Patent number: 7008138
    Abstract: A molded thermoplastic domed end cap, for attachment to the end of an arch shape cross section leaching chamber or stormwater chamber, has a multiplicity of buttresses, to provide facet surfaces where pipe connections may be made. The essentially planar surface portions have tear out or cut out regions, for pipe openings. The buttresses face in different directions, relative to the longitudinal axis of the end cap, to conveniently accommodate pipes running in different angular directions. Pipes, which pass through openings in the surfaces of the buttresses, are supported by molded in step-saddles of the buttresses. Molded in stops limit inward motion of pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: Infiltrator Systems INC
    Inventors: James J Burnes, Ronald P. Brochu, James M Nichols
  • Patent number: 6994490
    Abstract: A sediment accumulating device for use as an accessory disposed below a groundwater receiving chamber engulfed in granular backfill material has a compartment bounded by sidewall structure elongated upon a vertical axis between upper and lower extremities. The upper extremity is open and has a perimeter disposed in a plane orthogonal to the axis. The bottom extremity is closed. Retaining means protrude radially outward from the sidewall structure for receiving downward gravity force from the granular material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Inventor: Robert M. Maestro
  • Patent number: 6991402
    Abstract: Methods and modules for use in a modular assembly are disclosed for retaining or detaining storm water beneath a ground surface. A module comprises a substantially horizontally disposed deck portion and at least one substantially vertically disposed side portion extending therefrom. The deck portion and side portion have respective end edges, and the side portion has bottom edges. The side portion and the deck portion define a longitudinal channel which is open at least at an end of the module. The side portion has at least one opening therein and defines a lateral channel in the module. The longitudinal and lateral channels are in fluid communication with one another. Each channel has about the same cross section and extends upwardly from the bottom edges to allow relatively unconstrained flow in the longitudinal and lateral directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: StormTrap LLC
    Inventor: Philip J. Burkhart
  • Patent number: 6991734
    Abstract: Apparatus for receiving and dispersing stormwater beneath the earth surface is comprised of an array of chambers, preferably having arch shape cross section, buried in crushed stone. Surface stormwater flows first through a diverter, then into a solids retention subsystem (SRS), and then into the array of chambers, which is spaced apart in the stone from the SRS. The SRS chambers are layered with geotextile or other filtering media. Solids entrained in the stormwater are retained in the SRS by a combination of settling and filtering actions. If the stormwater inflow exceeds the capacity of the SRS, the water level rises in the diverter to the point where it flows through a bypass line, directly to the chambers of the array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Infiltrator Systems INC
    Inventors: Jonathan F. Smith, Bryan A. Coppes
  • Patent number: 6988852
    Abstract: A drainage element is constructed of loose fill elements within a casing having a first part-circumferential portion of mesh construction and a second part-circumferential portion having a porosity to prevent the passage of water. The loose fill elements are disposed in unconnected relation to each other so as to be able to migrate within the container. The openings of the mesh container allow water to pass through while retaining the loose fill elements in place. In one embodiment, a porous layer is secured to a bale shaped drainage element in order to form a sleeve to receive a perforated pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Inventors: Harry Bussey, Jr., Harry (Buddy) Bussey, III
  • Patent number: 6962464
    Abstract: An environmental water resource recycling system of the invention comprises pluralities of drainpipes units, which includes pluralities of drainpipes engaged in pluralities of holder holes formed by coupled frame strips, and sealing lids covering the opening at one end of the drainpipes. An instant water-absorbing sand layer is applied on the soil layer exposed on the ground surface before inserting the lower end of the drainpipes held in the drainpipe unit into the sand layer. Concrete is poured onto the ground to be constructed such that the concrete can integrally cover the drainpipe units. The sealing lids can be removed from the openings on the upper end of the drainpipes after the concrete is solidified, thereby accomplishing a permeable paving and instantly draining the rain on the permeable paving to the sand layer and further to the underground for being recycled as water resource for further utilization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Inventor: Jui Wen Chen
  • Patent number: 6857818
    Abstract: A drainage element is constructed of loose fill elements within a container of mesh construction. The loose fill elements are disposed in unconnected relation to each other so as to be able to migrate within the container. The openings of the mesh container allow water to pass through while retaining the loose fill elements in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventors: Harry Bussey, Jr., Harry Bussey, III
  • Patent number: 6854925
    Abstract: A system using pre-molded polyethylene galleries, utilized for septic or storm water applications, to facilitate rapid and even distribution of effluent and particles across the gallery installation when utilized as a septic system, or minimizes the resistance to storm water flow when used to dissipate storm water runoff.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Inventor: Robert J. DiTullio
  • Publication number: 20040253055
    Abstract: An apparatus for constructing a removable surface includes a plurality of rolls of composite drainage material with overlapped edges. The composite drainage material comprises a layer of a polymeric open mesh core between first and second layers of a non-woven geo-textile fabric having a fibrous outer surface. A closure member secures overlapping edges. The closure member comprises at least one surface of hooks that engages the fibrous outer surface of the fabric to form a hook and loop closure to secure sections of the overlapping longitudinal edge portions together. A method of constructing the removable surface is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2004
    Publication date: December 16, 2004
    Applicant: Center West Enterprises
    Inventor: A. Basil Polivka
  • Publication number: 20040218979
    Abstract: A passive system for effectively removing excess water from a soil profile. The system includes an array of fibrous capillary drains inserted at regular intervals into the soil profile. These capillary drains traverse one of more of the layers of the soil profile. Typically, the soil profile in question includes a root zone and a gravel layer beneath the root zone, and the capillary drains provide a continuous porous pathway of capillary pores extending from the lower reaches of the root zone through the gravel layer. The capillary drains themselves may be constructed from fiberglass rope, fiberglass tape, or a contained column of sand or similar particulate matter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2004
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Applicant: Ohio State University
    Inventor: Edward McCoy
  • Publication number: 20040208704
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for constructing a manhole structure in which a manhole and a pipe are joined together by using a waterproof flexible joint. The joint includes a rigid cylindrical portion and a cylindrical flexible portion that has a covering portion to be fixed around an outer periphery of said pipe, a fixing portion fixed to an outer periphery of said rigid cylindrical portion and to be fixed to the manhole and a connecting portion connecting the covering portion to the fixing portion and made of an elastic material being capable of absorbing a displacement between the manhole and the pipe. The waterproof flexible joint is located around the outer periphery of the pipe, and the covering portion is fixed around the outer periphery of the pipe. Then, a filler for the manhole is poured around an outer periphery of the fixing portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Inventors: Satoshi Suyama, Fumio Monden, Hideo Tanaka, Hideichi Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20040115000
    Abstract: This Invention relates to a soil infiltration irrigation system, which consists primarily of a water feeding pipeline, an air relieving pipeline and multiple water permeable storage containers that are pressure resistant. Each container comprises at least two components, which are coupled properly to shut out sand and dirt. The top component has a water feeding pipe connector and an air relieving pipe connector. The said connectors are connected respectively to the water feeding pipe and the air relieving pipe by means of adapters. The two pipes are in turn connected by means of hetero-diameter adapters to branch pipes leading to the main water feeding pipeline and the main air relieving pipeline. Thus, a system of two parallel pipelines is formed. The said multiple containers are either water permeable vats or combinations of water permeable vats and double-layer water permeable vats. The system may also include two-way air relieving and water shut-off valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventor: Changbiao Fu
  • Publication number: 20040076473
    Abstract: Methods and modules for use in a modular assembly are disclosed for retaining or detaining storm water beneath a ground surface. A module comprises a substantially horizontally disposed deck portion and at least one substantially vertically disposed side portion extending therefrom. The deck portion and side portion have respective end edges, and the side portion has bottom edges. The side portion and the deck portion define a longitudinal channel which is open at least at an end of the module. The side portion has at least one opening therein and defines a lateral channel in the module. The longitudinal and lateral channels are in fluid communication with one another. Each channel has about the same cross section and extends upwardly from the bottom edges to allow relatively unconstrained flow in the longitudinal and lateral directions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Philip J. Burkhart
  • Patent number: 6719490
    Abstract: A stormwater receiving assembly for processing stormwater containing suspended particulate matter includes a dispensing chamber and an underlying accumulating accessory. The dispensing chamber is fabricated of thin-walled plastic contoured as a corrugated wall horizontally elongated between inlet and exit ends and having an arched cross-sectional shape with upwardly directed peak and spaced apart parallel lowermost edge extremities defining an open bottom. A circular portal is located in the peak of the chamber. The accumulating accessory has a compartment bounded by sidewall structure elongated upon a vertical axis between upper and lower extremities, and is positioned below the dispensing chamber such that the portal of the dispensing chamber is in centered vertical alignment with the lower extremity of the compartment of the accumulating accessory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventor: Robert M. Maestro
  • Publication number: 20040057797
    Abstract: A pre-assembled drainage line unit includes a flexible longitudinally extending perforated sleeve member and a loose aggregation of lightweight elements contained within the sleeve member. A pliable, water permeable barrier material extends along the sleeve member and overlies at least a portion of the aggregation to prevent the passage of solid materials, such as sand and dirt, into the aggregation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Applicant: Ring Industrial Group. L.P.
    Inventor: Carl D. Ring
  • Patent number: 6705800
    Abstract: A drainage system for delivering fluid from a source of fluid for absorption into the ground, comprises a trench, a pair of perforated drainage conduits extending longitudinally in said trench and laterally spaced from each other to define an open chamber therebetween. The conduits are connected at one end to the source for receiving fluid from the source and delivering fluid to the chamber. A longitudinally extending cover overlies said conduits and prevents soil from falling into the chamber. The cover includes side portions which engage the conduits and a center portion connected to the side portions and maintains the conduits in laterally spaced relationship. The cover also includes reinforcing arches extending between the side portions and the center portion to resist downward deflection of the cover under the weight of the top soil. Vent holes in the cover permit the system to breathe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Ring Industrial Group, LP
    Inventors: Carl D. Ring, Douglas M. Dygert, Thomas K. Weaver
  • Patent number: 6698975
    Abstract: A leaching chamber is configured to be coupled in series to another such leaching chamber located forward of the chamber and to yet another such leaching chamber located rearward of said leaching chamber. The leaching chamber comprises a conduit extending about an axis to define an axially extending cavity. The conduit includes an axially front section having an overlying wall and a rear section having an underlying wall. The overlying wall is configured to overlie the underlying wall of the forward chamber when the chambers are coupled together. The underlying wall is configured to underlie an overlying wall of the rearward chamber when said chambers are coupled together. A projection extends from the front section of the conduit. A pocket is located at the rear section of the conduit. The projection is configured to be received by the pocket of the front chamber, and the pocket is configured to receive the projection of the rear chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Hancor, Inc.
    Inventor: Arnold G. Benecke
  • Publication number: 20040037647
    Abstract: Improved drip pipelines that comprise a pipe with bores created therein for dispensing water to the soil, and a layer pervious to water applied to the pipe, such as fabric sleeve, a metal spiral sleeve to screen the bores. The pervious layer screens the surface of the segments of the pipeline wherein a bore or bores have been drilled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventors: Gideon Yonat, Tomer Friedman
  • Patent number: 6695538
    Abstract: A drainage support/diverter system for use in connection with a perforated pipe drainage system within a drainage trench, comprising a number of drainage support/diverters that create impermeable barriers to moisture flow along the length of the trench outside the perforated pipe, such drainage support/diverters are positioned upon intervals along the drainage trench with their lower ends placed to a depth at least as deep as lowest depth of the drainage trench where each drainage support/diverter is placed, extend laterally at least as wide as the widest point of the drainage trench where each drainage support/diverter is placed and are formed at their upper ends with a recess corresponding to a portion of the diameter of the perforated pipe such that moisture outside the perforated pipe is forced to enter the perforated pipe at the point of each drainage support/diverter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: Donald Edward Coffey
  • Patent number: 6679653
    Abstract: A gallery for guiding liquid through a leaching or drain field and allowing liquid to seep into adjacent ground is provided. The gallery includes an elongated main body portion having an undulating wall defined by a plurality of laterally spaced apart ribs, the undulating wall defining an outer surface and an interior space for liquid and particles to flow therethrough. A plurality of area enhancing elements are formed on the outer surface of the undulating wall for increasing a surface area of the outer surface to promote the growth and flourishing of the bacteria and other microorganisms on the outer surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Cultec, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert J. DiTullio
  • Publication number: 20040005193
    Abstract: An underground irrigation system which supplies beneath the surface of the soil under or near the roots of a growing crop, water infused with micro bubbles of gas (usually air). A mixer/injector injects and mixes gas into water to form a mixed stream that flows from a header into a plurality of branches. The mixed stream emits from the branches. An air bleed releases gas from the system which has separated from the mixed stream.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Publication date: January 8, 2004
    Inventor: Angelo L. Mazzei
  • Publication number: 20030228193
    Abstract: A slot drain 100 comprises a throat portion 104 having two walls 110 and a separator 112 arranged to separate the walls 110. To provide an easy way of retaining the separator 112 in position, the separator 112 has lateral projections 122, 124 which pass through holes 128 in the walls 110 and are bent over to retain the walls 110 against the separator 112.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Inventors: Colin George Little, Simon Francis Godwin Bradbeer
  • Publication number: 20030228194
    Abstract: A drainage system for delivering fluid from a source of fluid for absorption into the ground, comprises a trench, a pair of perforated drainage conduits extending longitudinally in said trench and laterally spaced from each other to define an open chamber therebetween. The conduits are connected at one end to the source for receiving fluid from the source and delivering fluid to the chamber. A longitudinally extending cover overlies said conduits and prevents soil from falling into the chamber. The cover includes side portions which engage the conduits and a center portion connected to the side portions and maintains the conduits in laterally spaced relationship. The cover also includes reinforcing arches extending between the side portions and the center portion to resist downward deflection of the cover under the weight of the top soil. Vent holes in the cover permit the system to breathe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Applicant: Ring Industrial Group. L.P.
    Inventors: Carl D. Ring, Douglas M. Dygert, Thomas K. Weaver
  • Publication number: 20030198514
    Abstract: A pull up riser with at least one drainage port near its upper end is provided for attachment to a subsurface drain system to speed drainage from low areas during times of high water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2003
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Inventor: David W. McCampbell
  • Patent number: 6626609
    Abstract: A rain-water storing permeation structure can be applied to facilities, such as architectures like buildings, roads, water channels, parks and play grounds, factory sites and domestic sites, as well as water storing blocks used for such a structure and a connecting member for connecting the water storing blocks to each other. The rain-water storing permeation structure of the present invention is provided with a water-shielding layer placed in a recessed section in the ground, a water-storing layer that is constituted by water-storing blocks made of a hard resin foam member having an inner space, and that is placed inside the water-shielding layer, and a lid layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: ECO-Plan 21 Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tetsuho Kotani, Atsuo Shiode
  • Publication number: 20030177799
    Abstract: A method for utilizing waste rubber materials for construction of turf areas such as golf courses or athletic fields is disclosed. The method involves implementing waste rubber materials as a drainage layer to provide the following benefits: capability of adsorbing contaminants, insulation, and a lightweight construction backfill material. Also, the method involves the use of waste rubber materials as a supporting layer for athletic fields for the resiliency and shock absorption. Secondly, a method for utilizing waste rubber materials for filtration of runoff from turf or vegetated areas is disclosed. The method involves implementing waste rubber materials as a filter medium for adsorption of contaminants from runoff before entering detention ponds, wetlands, or other water bodies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventors: Jae Kwang Park, Robert Damien Lisi, John Clinton Stier
  • Publication number: 20030175079
    Abstract: A method of making a golf course green drainage system and the system made from the process which includes forming a drainage system field in a golf course green and coupling a drain pipe to the drain field for channeling water collected from the drain field. The process includes selecting a filter system having an inlet and a discharge for filtering water from the golf course green drainage field and placing the selected filter underground remotely from the golf course green and connecting the drain pipe thereto. The filter system discharge is connected to a retention pond so that water collected on a golf course green drainage field is filtered prior to being fed into the retention pond. The process includes selecting a filter having a housing and a hydrocarbon absorbent filter medium therein having a filter screen covering over the hydrocarbon absorbent medium and having a water deflector adjacent the inlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Henry Happel, Thomas H. Happel
  • Patent number: 6612777
    Abstract: A chamber of elongated arch-shaped configuration for receiving and dispersing stormwater underground is provided with side portals which receive horizontally disposed infeed conduits that deliver stormwater to the chamber. The positioning and function of the side portals, in conjunction with other design features of the chamber, cause suspended matter in the stormwater to accumulate at the exit end of the chamber, thereby facilitating clean-out of the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Inventor: Robert M. Maestro
  • Publication number: 20030161685
    Abstract: An insulated leaching chamber and a method of fabricating the same from a block of expanded polystyrene. The insulated leaching chamber includes a body of rigid air-permeable insulating material, having at least one arch centrally positioned between opposed outwardly projecting terminus. The at least one arch has an convex upper surface, and a concave lower surface. The use of the insulated leaching chamber reduces freezing and promotes increased biological activity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Applicant: Beaver Plastics Ltd.
    Inventor: Robert Eugene Vasseur
  • Patent number: 6602023
    Abstract: The leaching chamber endplate including snap connectors, pipe stops, pipe scores, drill guide(s), and a barrier that facilitates enhanced engagement between the endplate and leaching chamber. This endplate is preferably formed using a blow molding process that forms, in situ, the endplate, including the snap connectors and the barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: Infiltrator Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald C. Crescenzi, James J. Burns, Daniel J. Swistak
  • Publication number: 20030133753
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for a foundation and soil irrigation system having multiple independent zones that can be controlled to deliver fluid to surrounding soil. The system can be installed above or below ground, but in a preferred embodiment the system is subterranean and is installed 18 to 24 inches off of the foundation and 12 to 18 inches below ground level. Each independent zone comprises a fluid distribution network that forms a center-fed or end-fed section to ensure proper hydraulic flow throughout the zone. The system further utilizes a wicking material network installed below ground to irrigate a soil region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2003
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventors: Alan D. Sowry, Donald J. Turnage, Omar Besim Hakim
  • Patent number: 6592293
    Abstract: An adjustable coupler interconnects leaching chambers to create a serpentine pathway for a leaching field. The coupler can comprise a mating feature, which can be used to mate the coupler between a first leaching chamber and a second leaching chamber, and an adjustment feature, which can adjust the angle between the first chamber and the second chamber between a range of angles. Either, or both, features can include a swivel connector mateable to an end of one of the chambers. The range of angles can be particularly chosen to be about 45°. More particularly, the range of angles can be about 22.5° in either the clockwise or counter-clockwise direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: PSA, Inc.
    Inventors: Kristen K. Hedstrom, Terrance H. Gray, William V. Shaffer
  • Patent number: 6585449
    Abstract: A gutter duct structure for a concrete roadway mainly comprises a plurality of duct elements each is formed as a hollow cone shaped strut with an opening at each end thereof, and a plurality of seal elements engageable respectively with a top openings of the duct elements. During constructing the roadway, the duct elements are laid on the ground with the bottom end of the duct elements buried in a water seeping layer. The seal elements may be removed rapidly after a top surface layer of the roadway is laid and finished thereby to channel water on the top surface layer to the water seeping layer for draining, and thus may speed up construction of the roadway and reduce costs, and allows rainfall seeping into earth for recycling to conform to environmental conservation and protection requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Inventor: Jui-Wen Chen
  • Publication number: 20030118405
    Abstract: A method of construction for draining the ground in which water rarely permeates into the underground, and water is drained from the ground in a short period of time and dried. The method includes the steps of: as shown in FIG. 3, digging the circumference of the surface of ground requiring draining of the ground (1) to form a waterway (3); building up a central portion of the surface of ground within the waterway (3) and carrying out leveling by rolling with roller to form a foundation bed (2); covering the whole surface of the foundation bed (2) with corrugated plates of plastics (7) having convex portions (18) and concave portions (19); laminating crushed stones; covering the crushed stones (8) with the ground surface earth (9), and causing water permeated into the ground surface earth (9) due to rainfall or the like to flow into the peripheral waterway (3) from the concave portions (19) of the corrugated plates of plastics (7) to effect draining.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventor: Masao Sakamoto
  • Publication number: 20030118404
    Abstract: A structural module comprises a rigid cell including two substantially parallel planar members, each of which defines an ordered array of circular apertures with a series of columns disposed substantially normally to the two parallel surfaces retaining the two members in a fixed spaced relationship from each other. Male interlocking means which are integral with the module project from two adjacent side edges of the module. Female interlocking means are defined the other two adjacent side edges. The modules can be secured together in side edge to side edge relation, in which relationship the male locking means from a first module engage in a female locking means of a second module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventor: Alan Sian Ghee Lee
  • Patent number: 6561732
    Abstract: A driving pipe and method for the construction of an essentially horizontal pipeline, whose wall is made at least primarily of concrete polymer. At least sections of the wall of the concrete polymer pipe are made of a liquid-permeable filter material consisting of polymer-bound, gravel-like particles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Meyer Rohr & Schacht GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas D. Bloomfield, Michael Welzel
  • Publication number: 20030082359
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to, in part, modules that allow for the exchange of a fluid such as a liquid or gas to and/or from a medium or surface and systems and methods comprising same. In one embodiment, there is provided an apparatus for directing the flow of a fluid passing through a medium, the apparatus comprising a top having a plurality of perforations and a base that is positioned adjacent and substantially parallel to the top, thereby defining a cavity for passage of fluid therein. The top comprises a plurality of integrated supports extending from the bottom surface of the top, the integrated supports maintaining the height of the cavity and being sufficient in number, size, and physical properties as to permit the top to support the weight of the medium and activity above the medium. A sealing strip can be installed within the cavities of the modules to contain or direct fluid within the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Inventor: Christopher Paine Scott
  • Publication number: 20030039511
    Abstract: A drainage system is provided for a synthetic grass turf assembly having a flexible and water permeable sheet backing for installation on a supporting soil substrate to provide a game playing surface. The draining system of the present invention prevents water from accumulating on the turf surface, which could cause the top-dressing layer to “float” and be moved by inundation. The draining system of the present invention includes a spacing grid disposed between the backing of the turf. The spacing grid is structured to permit water not only to be drained vertically through the spacing grid, but also to be drained horizontally through the spacing grid to the edges of the field. The spacing grid is made from one or more types of geotextile or plastics material with an adequate flexibility to improve the impact absorption capabilities and resilience of the synthetic grass turf assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventor: Jean Prevost
  • Patent number: 6517283
    Abstract: A drainage system for collecting, isolating and relocating moisture incorporating cascading chutes which collect moisture and create an inner channel from which collected moisture cannot escape to re-infiltrate surrounding soil prior to its discharge point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Inventor: Donald Edward Coffey
  • Patent number: 6505996
    Abstract: Unitary void-maintaining geocomposites, and drainage systems utilizing those geocomposites, are provided for location below a road surface or below a large structure such as a building, retaining wall or parking lot. In some embodiments, the geocomposites include at least one fluid-transmissible layer, preferably a geotextile, attached adjacent an upper or lower surface, or both surfaces, of a polymer-based core element. In other embodiments, the core element is constructed such that no geotextile layer is needed. Characteristic of the core element is high transmissivity, that is, a high rate of horizontal flow of gases or liquids through the core. Characteristic of the at least one fluid-transmissible layer is high permittivity, that is, a high rate of vertical transmission of liquids and gases through the geotextile layer and into the core element. Also characteristic of fluid-transmissible layers of the invention is high exclusivity with respect to solid materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Tenax Corporation
    Inventors: Peter J. Ianniello, Aigen Zhao, Giovanni Capra
  • Publication number: 20020172557
    Abstract: A geopipe with partial perforated structure is disclosed. The geopipe includes a water permeable portion with a plurality of perforated through holes arranged on an upper arc surface of the geopipe for permitting liquid outside the geopipe permeating into the geopipe through the perforated through holes. A water draining portion formed on a lower arc surface from the first end through the second end of the geopipe for draining the water permeated from the perforated through holes of the water permeable portion of the geopipe. The geopipe is further covered with a net layer, or a reinforced layer thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventor: Shih-Yin Chen
  • Publication number: 20020164209
    Abstract: A catch basin filtration system is disclosed. A filter body is dimensioned to fit within a drain inlet forming a trough or reservoir obstructing at least a portion of the inlet. The filter body is supported by a filter body support dimensioned to cooperatively engage with the interior walls of the inlet and with the filter body to substantially maintain said filter body in a pre-selected shape and position within the inlet. One or more connectors removably connect the filter body to the filter body support. One or more adjustable high fluid flow bypasses prevent the system from backing up and flooding surrounding areas during periods of high fluid flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2001
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Inventors: Douglas Paul Allard, Andrew Charles Wilson
  • Patent number: 6443652
    Abstract: An aggregate chamber for leaching effluent comprises a chamber cavity, at least one panel positioned along a periphery of the chamber cavity, and aggregate for filtering effluent. The chamber unit may include a plurality of foldingly connected panels, and at least one conduit for delivering effluent. A leach line comprises a trench excavated in a leach field, and a plurality of chamber units having a cavity, at least one panel, and aggregate for filtering effluent. A leach field comprises a source of effluent, a plurality of trenches excavated in the soil adjacent the source of effluent, and a plurality of leach lines positioned in the plurality of trenches in fluid connection with the source of effluent, each leach line having at least one chamber unit comprising a cavity, at least one panel, and an aggregate for filtering effluent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventors: Michael H. Houck, Thomas K. Weaver
  • Patent number: 6398456
    Abstract: A deck drain apparatus is provided that allows builders to inexpensively configure deck drainage systems from standard AASHTO M180 highway guardrail. The apparatus includes a number of deck drain sections, butted together to form a drain channel. Each of the drain sections consists of a pan section and an inverted W-beam section. The pan section has a longitudinally elongated and flat conducting surface and two perforated sides. The two perforated sides project upwardly along opposite lateral edges of the conducting surface. The inverted W-beam section has a first perforated wall, a first upper surface, a lower surface, a second upper surface, and a second perforated wall. The perforated walls are longitudinally elongated and formed along opposite lateral edges of the inverted W-beam section. The first upper surface is formed between the first perforated wall and the lower surface. The second upper surface is formed between the lower surface and the second perforated wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Inventors: John P. Williams, Dean C. Alberson, D. Lance Bullard, Jr., Christopher J. Karpathy
  • Patent number: 6375388
    Abstract: An effluent distribution system for distributing effluent from a source of waste water, wherein the system includes a chamber, a cover or lid for the chamber, an effluent flow system, a pair of curved end sections secured at one end of the chamber for adjusting the position of one chamber in relation to another chamber, and treatment media wherein the chamber may include as an integral component thereof, the cover or lid and alternatively spray nozzles secured to the cover or lid to assist in the distribution of effluent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Zoeller Company
    Inventors: Kenneth E. Zoeller, Matthew E. Byers