Abstract: The combination of a flexible pipe, e.g. plastic, and a reinforcing member mounted around the pipe to strengthen the pipe and to enhance its ability to resist deformation under load. In one embodiment the reinforcing member includes a flexible perforated plastic netting containing an aggregation of lightweight elements such as expanded polystyrene beads capable of wrapping around the pipe, preferably in helical fashion along the length of the pipe. In another embodiment, a number of members are mounted on the pipe in longitudinally extending fashion. In all embodiments, the beads provide drainage around the pipe when it is placed in a trench and obviate the need for gravel normally used in conventional systems.

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.

Abstract: The combination of a flexible pipe, e.g. plastic, and a reinforcing member mounted around the pipe to strengthen the pipe and to enhance its ability to resist deformation under load. In one embodiment the reinforcing member includes a flexible perforated plastic netting containing an aggregation of lightweight elements such as expanded polystyrene beads capable of wrapping around the pipe, preferably in helical fashion along the length of the pipe. In another embodiment, a number of members are mounted on the pipe in longitudinally extending fashion. In all embodiments, the beads provide drainage around the pipe when it is placed in a trench and obviate the need for gravel normally used in conventional systems. In another form of the invention, a drainage system is constructed by digging a trench, placing a reinforcing aggregate member in the corners at the bottom of the trench, and setting a large diameter cylindrical pipe in the trench.

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.

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.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for manufacturing a drainage line unit. The apparatus includes a mandrel having an inner cavity. Rear, upper and front openings communicate with the mandrel cavity. Preferably, a controller connected to at least one sensor is operably positioned to control the apparatus. A pipe feeder feeds perforated vent pipe through the inner cavity of the mandrel from the rear opening to the front opening and therethrough. The pipe is positioned within the inner tube cavity so as to define a void space between the pipe and the wall of the mandrel. A hopper assembly has an exit port positioned for feeding a plurality of plastic bodies into the cavity. A blower produces a sufficient air flow through the mandrel cavity for moving the plurality of plastic bodies to substantially fill the void space so that the pipe emerges from the front opening of the mandrel surrounded by the plurality of plastic bodies.