Abstract: A gutter descent assembly (20) designed to collect rainwater falling down a house roof surface (22), the assembly comprising an upper part (26) joining at a gutter exit (23), a lower part having a faucet (30), and a descent exit (38), the three of them made in usual sheet metal. The collection of water is obtained by means of internal components forming an internal channel: a funnel (48) directs the gutter water towards an internal pipe (37), then towards the faucet (30). The water is conveyed from the faucet by a hose (34) to a tank (36). When the tank is full, or if the water runs too fast to be drained by the internal channel, apertures (50) made at the funnel (38) base allow the draining by an annular duct situated between the internal pipe (37) and the sheet metal, for directing towards the descent exit (38).

Abstract: The present subject matter relates to controlling water sources external to a structure and more particularly to an external water shutoff. One embodiment of the present subject matter includes an apparatus having an electrically operable valve placed on a water supply line internal to a structure between a location where the water supply line enters the structure and a location where the water supply line exits the structure, an auto-drain valve, and means for controlling the electrically operable valve, wherein the means for controlling is external to the structure, further wherein the means for controlling the electrically operable valve is communicatively connected to the electrically operable valve external to the structure.

Abstract: An assembly for mounting a hydrant to a roof. The assembly includes a housing that is adapted to fit about a standpipe that is disposed through a roof top. The assembly additionally has a sealing member that is positioned between the housing and the standpipe and a mounting plate that is connected to the housing to mount the hydrant to the roof.

Abstract: A device for reusing greywater includes: a water feed for supplying greywater; a collecting reservoir for collecting the supplied greywater; a storage tank for storing water; a siphoning device for siphoning water from the collecting reservoir to the storage tank; a water discharge for discharging stored water to a water user; a sewer outlet; and a control system. A method of siphoning water includes: supplying water to a collecting reservoir; detecting a predetermined water level in the collecting reservoir; operating a filling valve subject to the detected water level; and siphoning water via a siphon connection from the collecting reservoir to the storage tank.

Abstract: A system is provided for monitoring leakage within a building. Remote sensors are placed at locations that are likely to have leaks occurring. If a leak is detected by one of the remote sensors, a signal is sent to a control for a main shut-off valve. The main shut-off valve is placed on the main water supply line leading into the building. Further, a flow meter is placed on the main water supply line. The flow meter monitors water being delivered into the building, and should an abnormal water flow be detected, the control will close the shut-off valve. The flow meter and control may learn normal water usage patterns for the building, or the patterns may be pre-programmed into the system. A manual override allows the control to be bypassed when it is intended for a large volume of water to be moved into the building, such as when a swimming pool is filled, etc.

Abstract: A fire fighting tool includes an elongated hollow cylindrical nozzle having a plurality of openings surrounding the nozzle, a tubular member and a coupling for connecting the tubular member to a hose. The tool also includes a mounting member for positioning the nozzle within an interior of a structure. The mounting member includes a base, an upper member and a pair of rotatable clamping members adjustably mounted on the mounting member for engaging inner and outer surfaces of a wall. The mounting member and nozzle extend through an opening in the wall for spraying water or other fire suppressant onto the fire. The tool also includes a rotatable heat shield for protecting a fireman from heat and smoke and a handle for carrying the tool.

Abstract: Systems and methods for collecting, storing, and redistributing water, which systems and methods make use of building foundations and surface concrete slab structures. A variety of rainwater collectors are anticipated, including rooftop collection systems (e.g., gutters) and ground surface covering structures (driveways, sidewalks, parking lots, and patios). These collection systems are joined together in a collection conduit system that carries the rainwater to one or more rainwater containment vessels. The stored water may then be redistributed, again through a variety of distribution means, to address part or all of the landscape watering requirements of the property. The system takes advantage of standard foundation and slab construction techniques to establish a major portion of the structure required for the containment vessel.

Abstract: Disclosed embodiments describe a water reservoir tank used to temporarily supply a building in the event that the municipal water supply is disrupted. The municipal water supply, the tank, and the building are connected in series, so that any draw of water from the building will cause water in the tank to circulate. As water is drawn from the tank, the municipal water supply will refill the tank so long as the municipal water supply has available water pressure. In the event that the municipal water supply is disrupted, the building may continue to draw water from the reservoir tank temporarily. Once the municipal water supply becomes active again, it refills the tank. The regular circulation of water within the tank provides for a clean, hygienic, and potable back-up water supply for the building.

Abstract: This invention provides a three-in-one water-supply pipe with accessories for quality-distinguished distribution of domestic water. This pipe contains three pipes arranged in a triangular combination to supply drinkable water, service water and recycled water at the same time. The diameter and thickness of the pipe walls of the three pipes depend on required water-supply volume and pressure. The accessories, including triangle shaped straight pipe, straight joint, 90-175 degree bending joint, tee joint and pipe clip are all made of contamination-free material, which can be assembled into a multi-pipe delivering system for separate supply of different domestic water to users. This three-in-one pipe system reduces manufacturing costs and provides good heat insulation to save energy. It is also easy for installation and maintenance.

Abstract: An automatic flushing system for a potable water station includes a conduit having a first end connected to a potable water supply source and a second end having a nozzle coupling. It also includes an air gap assembly having a coupling operable for coupling with the nozzle coupling to releasably connect the conduit to the air gap assembly in a stored position. Further, the system includes a control system operable for automatically flushing potable water through the conduit and the air gap assembly after exceeding a predetermined time in which a predetermined minimum threshold temperature is exceeded and a predetermined time during which the potable water station has remained idle. A method for automatically flushing a potable water station includes the step of providing the potable water station with a conduit having a first end connected to a potable water supply source and having a second end remote therefrom.

Abstract: A leak diverter for positioning above a suspended ceiling is disclosed. The leak diverter can comprise a liquid collection tray comprising a flexible or substantially rigid sheet of material. The leak diverter can have a drain in flow communication with the liquid collection tray. The leak diverter can comprise a perimeter frame and can be supported by a plurality of support members. The drain can be positioned to extend through either the liquid collection tray or the side barrier and can be positioned above the suspended ceiling. In one embodiment, the width of the leak diverter is less than the standard width of a suspended ceiling panel in order to facilitate installation of the diverter above the suspended ceiling. In another embodiment, the length of the leak diverter may be greater than the standard length or width of a suspended ceiling panel, and may straddle adjacent ceiling panels.

Abstract: A method and system for the distribution of water in a high rise building is provided using a minimum number of piping risers. The system has a domestic cold water riser, and a domestic hot water supply riser and a return riser. At each serviced floor, a cold water supply main extends from the domestic cold water riser and a hot water supply main extends from the domestic hot water supply riser. On each floor at which riser pressure is higher than domestic use pressures, a valve reduces the pressure of the entire cold water supply main to domestic use pressures. One or more valves at each of one or more suites on the floor reduce the pressure of the hot water to each suite, leaving the hot water supply main for the floor at full riser pressure. Coupling fan-coils with chilled water supply and the full pressure domestic hot water provides an efficient piping system for both environmental controls and domestic hot water use.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein relates in part to selectively shutting off the flow of water through a water supply pipe to a building, such as in the event of a broken water pipe. The embodiments disclosed herein also optionally discontinue electrical power to a water heater to minimize the risk of water heater elements burning out in the event a water heater is at the risk of being drained of water, such as due to a broken water pipe.

Abstract: A safety valve system includes a control valve connected to a gas meter and intersecting a gas flow path downstream of the gas meter and upstream of an entry point of a building. The control valve is adaptable between open and closed positions based upon received stimuli. A main gas supply line is mated to the control valve and includes auxiliary lines branching to appliances. A plurality of sensors are coupled in series to the appliances and are in communication with the control valve. A mechanism is included for transmitting a control signal to the control valve and for eliminating a fully charged gas line when the stimuli are detected by one of the sensors such that the control valve can allow and restrict gas flow to the appliances during operating and non-operating modes. Each of the sensors generates a unique control signal when the stimuli are detected.

Abstract: A water collection and distribution system for yard maintenance includes a buried reservoir for collecting water from the roof of a structure and a submersed pump in the reservoir for supplying contained water to a pressurized manifold having outlets available for yard maintenance activities. One of the outlets is connected with a premix catch basin upstream of the reservoir in which additives may be mixed for storage in and dispensing from the reservoir. Another outlet is connected to spray nozzles in the reservoir for agitating the additive mixture.

Abstract: The modular plumbing accessary utilizes an open sided box secured during rough-in to and between exposed wall studs. A unitary water pipe and anti-hammer assembly is connected to the box with only an outlet pipe exposed in the box interior. The water inlet pipe and an anti-hammer assembly and its tee connection upstream of the outlet pipe are located outside of the box interior. A drain inlet is also exposed in the box interior. Rough-in connections are made between the building pipes and the respective water inlet and drain outlet pipes at the box. Further, a compression seal shutoff valve will be secured during rough-in to the water outlet pipe within the box interior. The open side of the box faces the sink, making line connections between the sink and the valve and drain inlet easy and reliable.

Abstract: An assembly for mounting a tub/shower mixing valve onto a fiberglass shower stall wall. The assembly comprises a valve mounting sleeve and a locking plate that helps secure the mounting sleeve to the shower stall wall. Alternatively, the mounting sleeve may be secured to the shower stall wall by bolts threadably connected to the mounting sleeve.

Abstract: A fluid delivering hydrant providing a valve actuated assembly with enclosing shroud and water resistive doom handle assembly to protect the assembly from exposure to the weather while preventing entry of rainwater into a building structure upon the roof of which the device has been installed.

Abstract: A system and method for servicing restrooms on the upper floors of a high rise building. The system is comprised of sections of hoses that are interconnected by valves, each valve configured to provide a user with the ability to selectively shut off the flow of material in a vertical or horizontal direction. These vacuum hoses are then connected to a liquid cooled pump, which is connected to a vacuum tank. The system operates by selectively opening and closing the vertical and horizontal valves to focus vacuum force in areas to be cleaned and prevent vacuum in non-desired areas.

Abstract: A swivel joint apparatus for supplying utilities to a rotating building rotatable about a central axis has a first, fixed member for securing to a fixed base of the building to extend co-axially with a central axis of rotation of the building, and a second member rotatably mounted on the first member for securing to the rotatable part of the building. The first member has a series of spaced annular chambers and at least one ring seal mounted on the peripheral edge of each flange for rotatable sealing engagement with the outer casing so that the casing forms an outer wall of each of the annular chambers. A lower end wall of the spindle has a plurality of ports for connection to fixed utility lines in the base for fluid supply to and from the building, each port connected through the spindle to a respective annular chamber.

Abstract: A rain head is disclosed having three filters through which water entering an inlet to the rain head must pass before passing out through an outlet from the rain head. The filters remove successively smaller particles from the water.

Abstract: An apparatus for flood relief comprising a bell shaped hollow body having a top, a bottom, a top opening suitable for attaching a hose, and a bottom opening; a base ring having a center opening, a bottom surface, a side, an adhesive material on the bottom surface, and a protective sheet attached to the adhesive material; and a hose having the means for attaching said hose to the top opening of the body, whereby the protective sheet is removed from the adhesive material on the bottom surface of the base ring and the base ring is placed on the floor of a basement so that the center opening of the base ring is juxtaposed with a drain opening and the body is screwed on the base ring and the hose is attached to the body whereby water that rises through a basement trap will pass through the body and the hose and will be deposited onto a yard of a house.

Abstract: A water supply system for supplying water to a building including a water tank (13) for collecting water from the roof (10) and gutters (12) of the building (11); a water level sensor means (21) for sensing the level of water in the water tank; a tank water system (22) for supplying water from the water tank (13); a water pump (23) for pumping water from the water tank (13) along the tank water system (22); a non-return valve (25) downstream of the pump in the tank water system; a pressure sensor means (26) for sensing water pressure of water within the tank water system, said pressure sensor means (26) is located downstream of the non-return valve (25); a mains water system for supplying mains water; a three port valve (35) having a first port (34) connected to the tank water system downstream from the pressure sensor means (26), a second port (37) connected to the mains water system and a third port (41) connected to the building's water reticulation system; wherein when the first (34) and third port (41) a

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a supply unit for accommodating medical instruments. A middle part, which is located at an instrument (12) and is equipped with lateral guide surfaces (3), engages a height-adjustable middle part of the supply unit (1) with side cheeks (2) in an accurately fitting manner. So-called end position sensors (4), e.g., photoelectric cells, which send a signal to an evaluating and control unit when the height-adjustable middle part of the supply unit (1) has been moved upward to the extent that pins (14) arranged there are completely accommodated by complementarily designed pin mounts (15) at the middle part of the instrument (12), are provided at the middle part of the supply unit (1). The evaluating and control unit now releases a plug-type connection for the power supply (6, 7), for the data transmission (8, 9) and for the pneumatic supply (10, 11).

Abstract: A gravity flow drain extension is adapted for attachment to an exit opening of a condensation drain line. The drain extension includes an extension line for receiving and transporting water. The open connecting end of the extension line is attached to the exit opening of the condensation drain line, such that water exiting the condensation drain line enters the extension line. The extension line defines at least one discharge opening downstream of its connecting end for dispensing water at a location away from the exit opening of the condensation drain line. A backflow preventer upstream of the at least one discharge opening prevents backflow of water into the condensation drain line.

Abstract: A system and method for restoring the natural water cycle by reducing stormwater runoff and addressing issues affecting groundwater supply. In one embodiment of the invention, the system comprises a roof washer component, cistern component, pump, and manufactured dry well. The system is designed to divert polluted rooftop runoff, capture clean rooftop runoff and store this clean water for irrigation purposes and nonpotable uses, while infiltrating excess water to recharge groundwater supplies thereby replicating the natural hydrologic cycle.

Abstract: An improved high rise building drainage system method and apparatus for conducting waste water from plumbing fixtures, such as lavatories and the like, through prefabricated, modular waste-vent stack units extending through intervals and stack boxes for such units optimally located to minimize the footprint through each interval.

Abstract: An adapter for a first flush water diverter is disclosed. The adapter has a collector for receiving water from a containment area. A passage from a lower part of the collector allows water from the lower part to be directed to an attachment portion which in turn is connected to the water diverter. The collector has at least one outlet for directing water to a storage tank.

Abstract: A system and method for servicing restrooms on the upper floors of a high rise building. The system is comprised of sections of vacuum hose that are interconnected by T-valves each T-valve is configured to provide a user with the ability to selectively shut off the flow of material in a vertical or horizontal direction or both. These vacuum hoses are then connected to a liquid cooled pump, which is connected to a vacuum tank. The system operates by selectively opening and closing the vertical and horizontal valves to focus vacuum force in areas to be cleaned and prevent vacuum in non-desired areas.

Abstract: An improved surround structure and method of installation for surrounding the base of a water-containing appliance to prevent water leakage onto a concrete floor is disclosed where a lower portion of the surround structure is embedded in the concrete floor as it is being formed and an upper portion of the surround structure extends above the basement floor to surround the base of the appliance.

Abstract: An emergency utility backup system, for a building normally supplied with culinary water, electric power and natural gas by public utilities, includes at least one water storage reservoir having an upper input coupled to a public water utility main line; an electric generator powered by an internal combustion engine; and an electric air compressor having a compressed air storage tank which provides elevated air pressure to the water storage reservoir(s) in the event that water pressure from the public water utility main line fails. The electric air compressor is operable from power supplied by either a public electric utility or said electric generator. The emergency utility backup system may also include a tank for storing a liquid hydrocarbon fuel that may be utilized for both the electric generator and a heating system for the building.

Abstract: A rainwater collection device for collecting rainwater from a gutter for later usage. The rainwater collection device includes a housing having a bottom wall and a peripheral wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall. The peripheral wall has a top edge defining an opening extending into the housing. A top wall defines a cover which is positionable on the housing for selectively opening and closing the opening in the housing. A supply pipe extends through and is attached to the top wall. The supply pipe is removably coupled to the gutter such that water in the gutter may enter the housing through the supply pipe. A drainage pipe is in fluid communication with the housing. The drainage pipe extends into the peripheral wall and is positioned generally adjacent to the bottom wall. A valve is positioned in the drainage pipe for selectively opening and closing the drainage pipe.

Abstract: A method for operating a multi-family/commercial plumbing system includes sensing an event and recording for each sensed event at least one parameter selected from the group consisting of date, day of the week, start time, duration of the event, water flow, water temperature, and humidity. The parameters are analyzed to determine a pattern and thereafter water flow, circulation, water temperature, and water use are controlled in accordance with the determined pattern.

Abstract: A relief valve assembly including a valve member, having inlet and outlet bores, for sliding movement within a valve body bore portion, having a cylindrical sleeve portion, journalled via a cylindrical sleeve bearing for substantially the entire axial extent thereof, with a valve member head portion having a plurality of equally spaced apertures, connecting the inlet bore and a sleeve portion central cavity with the outlet bore. An annular resilient seal, having a flat-faced sealing surface is retained in the valve member head portion for sealingly engaging a valve body valve seat portion. A compression member, for biasing the valve member to a closed position, is operatively interposed between an adjustment member piston portion and a valve member sleeve cavity, the adjustment member having an adjustment stem for external adjustment of the compression member. A radial end thrust bearing, is interposed between the compression member and the adjustment member.

Abstract: A rainwater collection and dispensation system for economically conserving water usage by using collected rainwater. The rainwater collection and dispensation system includes a gutter being adapted to be mounted along an edge of a roof of a building structure; and also includes a tank support member being adapted to rest upon a ground and being disposed beneath a portion of the gutter; and further includes a tank being securely and removably supported upon the tank support member; and also includes a drainage spout interconnecting the gutter and the tank for draining rainwater from the gutter into the tank; and further includes a rainwater dispensing assembly including an overflow pipe member being disposed through a wall of the tank for draining rainwater from the tank.

Abstract: According to the invention, a semiconductor component manufacturing plant is constructed in a building having an upper storey and a lower storey separated from one another by a support slab and a false floor. The support slab has passageway openings, whilst the false floor consists of plates themselves having through passages. Vacuum generation means are disposed in an intermediate space situated between the support slab and the false floor which itself carries a process chamber situated in the upper space constituting a clean room. Suction means situated in the lower storey create a gaseous flow directed downwards from the clean room through the intermediate space to the lower storey. In this way, the false floor acts as a non-return mechanism for noise, thermal or chemical pollution coming from the vacuum generation means.

Abstract: A system for monitoring and controlling one or more utility systems includes a utility system main supply line for supplying a utility to at least one of a structure, an area and a building and a controlled shut-off device on the utility system main supply line. The controlled shut-off device is bias toward an open position and is movable toward a closed position upon receipt of an actuation signal wherein the utility is prevented from passing by the controlled shut-off device. A main utility sensor is on the utility system main supply line and a motion sensor that detects occupancy is in the building. A processor communicates with the controlled shut-off device, the main utility sensor and the motion sensor. The processor sends the actuation signal to the controlled shut-off device to move the controlled shut-off device toward the closed position when input from the main utility sensor and the motion sensor indicates occurrence of an abnormal event.

Abstract: A water supply system for an apartment complex can include individual hot water conduits and cold water conduits for each apartment. Each conduit includes a water meter that enables the owner of the apartment complex to accurately determine the hot water usage and cold water usage of each apartment tenant. The meter system can also be used to locate leakage points in the water supply system, e.g. dripping faucets or continuously running toilets.

Abstract: One or more dispensing conveyances (1) have outlet apertures (2) or conveying and dispensing heated water to surfaces of roofs (3) and other structural surfaces selectively when ice and snow is being accumulated or has accumulated thereon. The water is heated with an electric-resistance (7, 10) or optionally with a fuel-flame heater (8, 11), which can be a tank heater or a tankless geyser water heater. Electric-resistance members can be positioned inside of heat-resistant tubular conveyances proximate the outlet apertures. A programmable control unit (18) can be included for programmable heat, flow rate and flow time.

Abstract: A flush-mount connector system is provided for use in attaching supply line valves and drain elbows to in-wall plumbing lines without a conventional in-wall outlet box. The system desirably includes at least one mounting plate, at least one valve holder or drain elbow, and a removable cover panel. The valve holder and drain elbow are each insertable into frictional engagement with a hole in the mounting plate and are rotatable inside the hole to position an attached valve, valves or drain elbow as needed for connection to the in-wall plumbing lines.

Abstract: A fire sprinkler water catching apparatus includes a funnel member which has a funnel top portion, a funnel bottom portion, a funnel drain portion connected to the funnel bottom portion, and a pole-reception fitting. A drain hose is connected to the funnel drain portion. The end of a support pole is received in the pole-reception fitting. The fire sprinkler water catching apparatus of the invention is used to catch and carry away unwanted water that is sprayed from a fire sprinkler when the fire sprinkler is spraying water at an unwanted time, such as when a fusible link on the fire sprinkler is accidentally broken. Preferably, a flexible funnel cover is fitted onto the top of the funnel top portion. The flexible funnel cover includes a plurality of flexible and resilient funnel cover flaps.

Abstract: A device (10) for restricting the flow of water through a down spout of a building roof guttering system. The device includes a housing (12), the housing (12) including a water flow path (28) extending between a water inlet (16) and a water outlet (22). The device (10) also includes a means (32) for restricting water flow along the water flow path (28). The water flow restriction means (32) is provided in the water flow path (28) between the water inlet (16) and water outlet (22). The device (10) also includes a port (30) for the supply of water to the device (10) from a water source. The port (30) is provided in the water flow path between the water inlet (16) and the water flow restriction means (32).

Abstract: Apparatus and a method are aimed at reducing flood risk from stormwater draining from a property (1). The apparatus is adapted in use to retain stormwater at the property (1) releasing it from the property and comprises a container (6) which in use is located underneath or proximal to a building (2) of the property (1), and a control chamber (3) with which the container (6) is in fluid communication. The apparatus is operatively connected in use by at least one conduit (4) to drainage means (5) sourced externally from the building to receive stormwater into the container (6) by way of the control chamber (3), and is further operatively connected in use to at least a second conduit (7) to which stormwater exits from the container (6) by way of the control chamber (3). A level of stormwater in the control chamber (3) determines the inflow and outflow of stormwater into and from the container (6). Debris is prevented at the control chamber from entering into the container and passing to the second conduit (7).

Abstract: A domestic water distribution system that continuously delivers heated water to one or more hot water faucets. The system utilizes a convective return loop from the desired faucets, which is regulated by a flow control device. The control device is specifically designed to allow unhindered flow during circulation without allowing reverse flow when a faucet is opened. The flow control device has an easily accessible handwheel adjustment that is used to select the three modes of operation and the flow rate. These modes are called: HELD-ON, HELD-OFF, and NORMAL-OPERATION. With the first two modes being used to fill and flush the system as is necessary with new installation and recreation vehicles. Also, a lighter-than-water checking element is used, which allows the system to function in single-level plumbing installations without the need for inclined supply and return routing.

Abstract: A water flushing unit and a method of making such comprising a cover plate that is to be mountingly installed to replace the original equipment cover plate of a shower valve. The modified cover plate has a drain conduit which includes an on/off valve. The on/off valve is in turn connected to a flexible tube. Flushing water from the shower valve is to be confined and directed through the drain pipe and, with the on/off valve in an open position, is caused to flow through the drain tube.

Abstract: Disclosed is a water supply control system for controlling the water supply system in a structure, such as a home or industrial or commercial building. The water supply control system typically includes an electronically controlled on-off valve to shut down the water supply to the structure, and a water pressure relief valve coupled to the on-off valve. Additional means for relieving pressure build up in the water supply system that may be included in the control system are (1) an expansion bladder, or (2) a vent pipe integral to the water supply system and terminating on the exterior of the structure, including an on-off valve electronically controlled so as to open when the water supply system is shut down and to close when the water supply system is turned on, or (3) means for disabling a hot water heater integral to the water supply system, the disabling being accomplished concurrently with the closing of the water supply to the structure.

Abstract: A method of introducing a fiber optic conduit into a pressurized gas pipeline includes the step of introducing a translating member into the pressurized gas pipeline via an entry port in a first drilling nipple attached to the pressurized gas pipeline. Tools are deployed within a first pressure lock housing attached to the first drilling nipple by using a first manipulator located in the first air lock housing. The duct rod is advanced within pressurized gas pipeline by a driving mechanism, until a second drilling nipple is reached. The translating member is attached to a fiber optic conduit. The duct rod and fiber optic conduit are then pulled back or pulled forward through the pressurized gas pipeline by the driving mechanism. A conduit is installed in a gas service line, to line the cable or conduit in a natural gas main pipeline to a telecommunications panel in a building.

Abstract: A water supply system for an apartment complex can include individual hot water conduits and cold water conduits for each apartment. Each conduit includes a water meter that enables the owner of the apartment complex to accurately determine the hot water usage and cold water usage of each apartment tenant. The meter system can also be used to locate leakage points in the water supply system, e.g. dripping faucets or continuously running toilets.

Abstract: A cold water distribution system for a multi-storey building has a lower accumulator provided in the building on a lower floor thereof and an upper accumulator provided on an upper floor of the building. A water inlet pipe leads from an external mains water supply into the building and is connected to the lower accumulator through an inlet non-return valve. A riser leads from the lower accumulator to the upper accumulator and is provided with respective lower and upper non-return valves adjacent the outlet from the lower accumulator and the inlet to the upper accumulator. An electrically-driven pump is provided in the riser to pump water to the upper accumulator and a water distribution pipe is connected to the upper accumulator for supplying cold water to at least the upper floor of the building.

Abstract: A device and method to implement the device, to automatically adjust a single valve or a plurality of valves including turning the valve(s) on and off. The device includes a motor drive assembly, a mounting method, and a control method. Each component is discrete. The three components can be combined easily. The motor drive and control components can be mounted and connected to a valve that is currently connected to pipes. Thus one application of this invention is to provide a method to convert a manual valve to an automatic valve. The control method can operate as a means to turn the valve on and off using a manually operated switch or can be automatically controlled in response to an external stimulus. The invention has many applications including protecting real property from loss due to water damage, and against vandalism in cases where valves can be controlled by unauthorized people.