Drainage Or Irrigation Patents (Class 405/36)
  • Publication number: 20020067952
    Abstract: The leaching chamber endplate ha snap connectors, pipe stops, pipe scores, drill guide(s), and a barrier which facilitates enhanced engagement between the endplate and leaching chamber. This endplate is preferably formed using a blow molding process which forms, insitu, the endplate, including the snap connectors and the barrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2000
    Publication date: June 6, 2002
    Inventors: Donald C. Crescenzi, James J. Burns, Daniel J. Swistak
  • Patent number: 6398455
    Abstract: A grass field such as a football playing ground comprises an underground heating and heat distributing plant below the uppermost growth layer (10). In order to provide a grass field built up, layer on layer, and heatable from below, as well as exhibiting a structure which will not be able to settle in the course of time, and wherein the pitch-corer substantially maintains its flat, plane, essentially horizontal original condition, the grass field is based on the use of air-carried heat energy, heated air being brought to distribute itself in a lower hot air distributing cavity layer covering the basal area of the pitch, and wherein some heat energy of the supplied air is liberated to wall faces (4, 5) defining said lower cavity layer, whereafter return air within an upper cavity layer assigned air communication holes (5′) in a partition wall can be drawn off for reheating and reuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Vølstad Energy AS
    Inventor: Ove C. Vølstad
  • Patent number: 6379543
    Abstract: Disclosed is a water treatment system (10) including: (a) a water permeable wall portion (12) defining a water treatment portion (18) of a waterway to be treated; and (b) a treating portion (20) retained in a desired position relative to the permeable wall portion (12) by retaining means (26) wherein water to be treated permeates through said wall portion (12), said retaining means (26) and said treating portion (20) for removing pollutants contained therein prior to discharge of water from the system (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Ecologic Holdings Pty Limited
    Inventor: Martin Bowman
  • Patent number: 6372310
    Abstract: The invention relates to a base layer for a combined synthetic and natural turf comprising a fabric of which at least a part of the weft and/or warp threads is manufactured from a biodegradable material and/or is wholly absent so that the fabric contains apertures, and synthetic turf fibers which are least partially cowoven with the fabric and of which one or both ends form synthetic grass blades. These ends only protrude from the fabric at those locations where the non-degradable warp and weft threads intersect. The base layer is used in combined synthetic and natural turfs comprising a foundation, optionally a first layer of growth substrate and a base layer according to the invention which is provided with a second layer of growth substrate in which grass plants grow. The invention further relates to a method for laying a combined turf using the base layer of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Southwest Recreational Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Hugo de Vries
  • Patent number: 6371690
    Abstract: A liquid-handling installation utilizes an upstream and a downstream separator unit, each unit having a horizontal partition defining a treatment compartment below the partition and an overflow compartment above the partition. Each unit has an inlet opening and an outlet opening. Two conduits communicate the outlet opening of the upstream unit with the inlet opening of the downstream unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventor: Joseph Gordon Monteith
  • Patent number: 6368017
    Abstract: A detention filter system for the temporary accumulation and storage of storm water runoff is disclosed for limiting the rate of runoff from a developed tract of land to no more than that which was naturally discharged from the same tract when in its prior undeveloped state. The system includes one or more conventional rip rap filled gabion boxes which may be aligned end-to-end along the edge of a developed parcel of real estate so that storm water can run off into the boxes and temporarily accumulate therein. The system also includes a sheet of porous fabric or perforated sheet, attached to and covering a surface of the gabion boxes to restrict the rate of flow of storm water runoff flowing through the boxes and the sheet to a downstream storm drain, storm sewer or stream. The sheet may be formed of two or more layers of the porous fabric or perforated sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Inventor: Charles E. Black
  • Patent number: 6360493
    Abstract: A weep hole insect barrier is provided for existing and new construction that prevents insects from crawling into cavity walls in a typical house through weep holes. For existing construction, the insect barrier has a flap hinged to a frame. The frame is then secured to the outside of an existing weep hole. The flap contains a screen which prevents insects from crawling in while allowing moisture to escape from the cavity walls. For new construction, the insect barrier also has a flap hinged to a frame, but the frame has two portions, a first portion containing having a flap and a second portion containing a fixed screen. In this embodiment the frame can be secured within the weep hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Inventor: Ignacio Torres, III
  • Publication number: 20020025225
    Abstract: A drainage pipe for use in a waterproofing system is disclosed. The drainage pipe includes a plurality of openings. The drainage pipe includes a cleaning tube affixed to an interior surface of the drainage pipe. The tube has a plurality of spaced holes which allow fluid such as air or water to be forced out of the tube and clean debris from the drainage pipe. A garden hose, air hose or other fluid source can be attached to the tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2000
    Publication date: February 28, 2002
    Inventors: Joseph Bevilacqua, Heather Marie Barnes
  • Patent number: 6347913
    Abstract: A geotextile structure for filtering liquid from soil includes a lower layer of geotextile material for contacting soil for filtration thereof. The lower layer presents in its thickness a number of constrictions n included between 15 and 40, and is made of synthetic filaments or fibers presenting a count D wherein D is measured in units of decitex. An upper layer of geotextile material provides mechanical protection of the lower layer. The upper layer presents in its thickness constrictions more open than the constrictions of the lower layer to avoid clogging of the lower layer. The upper layer is made of synthetic filaments or fibers presenting a count at least equal to 2D. The upper and lower layers are bonded to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: BIDIM Grosynthetics S.A.
    Inventors: Philippe Delmas, Olivier Artieres
  • Patent number: 6334953
    Abstract: A filter assembly is mounted on the discharge end of an outlet pipe of a storm water drainage system for filtering and collecting silt, dirt and other debris from runoff water flows. The filter assembly includes a collar member mounted within the discharge end of the outlet pipe and a filter bag that is removably attached to a downstream end of the collar member. The water flow being discharged from the outlet pipe of the storm water drainage system is channeled through the filter bag, which filters and collects the sediment and debris therefrom while enabling the substantially cleaned runoff water to pass through the filter bag for drainage into a stream, pond, or other water source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Inventor: Roger Singleton
  • Patent number: 6328890
    Abstract: A septic tank structure having first and second lower tank members and a cover member supported on and forming a seal with respective upper ends of the tank members. The tank members each have a closed lower end, an open upper end, and side walls extending between the lower and upper ends to form a receptacle for receiving waste materials. The tank members have respective flat sides that extend in a substantially vertical plane and are placed together when the tank structure is assembled. The upper ends of the assembled tank members define an outer periphery having an oval shape. The cover member has a lower periphery, a manhole opening, and a steeply sloped wall portion extending between the lower periphery and the manhole opening. The lower periphery of the cover member has an oval shape that corresponds to the oval shape of the upper ends of the assembled tank members. A channel-shaped configuration on the lower periphery of the cover member enhances the seal between the cover member and the tank members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: Osborne Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald M. Thibault
  • Patent number: 6315493
    Abstract: Filter elements for draining wastewater into the soil in leach fields comprise net sacks filled with scrap rubber or plastic chips and supplied with fabric filter cloth. Leach fields are constructed by excavating trenches, placing a first row of filter elements at the bottom of the trenches, installing a drain pipe on top of the row of filter elements, placing a second row of filter elements on top of the first row and the drain pipe, overlapping the pieces of filter cloth to provide a barrier to the surrounding soil, and backfilling the trench with soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: U.S Army Corps of Engineers as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Philip G. Malone, Brad L Huntsman, Brent E. Huntsman
  • Patent number: 6312190
    Abstract: A vertical prefabricated composite drain for improving conventional consolidated acceleration of saturated soils. The composite drain is installed in a generally vertical manner in water saturated soil to be treated for expelling pore water from the soil and is provided with an elongated core with at least one channel therealong for conveying fluids and is also provided with filter fabric which surrounds the core. At least one elongated tube is installed in juxtaposition and coextension with the drain core and fluid under pressure is forced through the tube for thereby assisting an expulsion of pore water from the drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventor: R. Robert Goughnour
  • Patent number: 6308470
    Abstract: A water seepage controlling device for draining away water from between an inner wall and an edge of a foundation wall. The water seepage controlling device includes a device positionable between a front surface of an inner wall and a peripheral edge of a foundation wall. The device has a base panel. The base panel is elongate having laterally spaced first and second opposing edges. A first panel controls water seepage and abuts against the front surface of the inner wall. The first panel has a first and second edge. The first edge of the first panel is fixedly coupled to the first edge of the base panel. The first panel is oriented generally perpendicular to the base panel. A second panel controls water seepage and abuts against the peripheral edge of the foundation wall. The second panel has a first and second edge. The first edge of the first panel is fixedly coupled to the base panel. The second panel is oriented generally perpendicular to the base panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Inventor: Savo Durkovic
  • Patent number: 6308135
    Abstract: A method and system of preventing soil liquefaction beneath a structure during an earthquake event, by monitoring local seismic precursor events, such as early arrival ground motion using an accelerometer, predicting the onset of a major earthquake tremor, and energizing conductors in the ground by a d-c power source for moving the ground water by electro-osmosis away from the foundation of the structure or to a series of pressure relief wells, whereby lowering the soil pore water pressure and preventing liquefaction of the soil beneath the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Golder Sierra LLC
    Inventor: Grant Hocking
  • Patent number: 6287049
    Abstract: A layered foundation for a play surface includes an upper layer formed of wood mulch or another landscaping loose-fill material, a support layer composed of multiple fragments of a resilient material such as vulcanized rubber, and a landscaping fabric sheet disposed between the upper layer and the support layer. The support layer, preferably 3-4 inches in depth, contributes considerably to the shock-absorbing capability of the foundation, to provide a foundation that meets or exceeds recommended levels of impact attenuation, yet has a total depth less than that considered necessary in conventional foundations or support systems. The support layer also effectively drains water from the upper layer, due to multiple, interconnected passages between fragments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Inventor: Shane E. Keinholz
  • Patent number: 6280117
    Abstract: A universal drain fitting for use with prefabricated drains of all sizes for joining the drain and a cylindrical-shaped pipe for making the transition between a drain and a drain outlet or between two drains in a drainage system. In the first and second preferred embodiments, the universal drain fitting includes a drain fitting portion formed by two walls in spaced parallel relationship with one another to define an open cavity and a pipe fitting portion connected to the drain fitting portion which includes a hollow cylindrical section with an opening adapted to be connected to a pipe. The open cavity has a plurality of sides formed by the space between the walls and includes at least two open sides adjacent to and in communication with one another for receiving a portion of a drain into the open cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: American Wick Drain Corporation
    Inventors: Michael B. Obermeyer, T. Richard Morris
  • Patent number: 6273638
    Abstract: An air handling system includes an air handling device connectable to a duct network that is underneath a field having grass growing in it, at least one sensor disposed to measure a variable associated with the field, and a control unit connected to the air handling device to control operating parameters of the air handling device responsive to an output from the sensor. A heat exchanger is optionally part of the system. The variables associated with the field include temperature and moisture. The operating parameters of the air handling device include direction of the air flow, temperature of the air directed into the duct network, and the time of operation of the unit. The system optionally includes programmable control logic so that the sensor output automatically controls the operating parameters of the system. A computer with display is used to program the control logic, which can be done remotely over a modem or the internet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Assignee: Subair, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher B. Clarkson
  • Patent number: 6254308
    Abstract: Equipment for at least partially drying a zone of ground containing a liquid, the equipment comprising: a substantially air-tight membrane, covering the zone of ground to be dried, an embankment permeous to water and disposed under the membrane, first drain tubes disposed vertically in the zone of ground and in fluid communication with the permeable embankment, second drain tubes connected to a suction pump and laid substantially flat in the embankment. The second drain tubes are in fluid communication with the liquid collected in the first drain tubes, under the membrane, and comprise a series of fluid input holes opened within the embankment for communicating with the fluid contained in said embankment, in order to evacuate the liquid collected from the ground and obtain an air depression under the membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: Menard Soltraitement
    Inventor: Jean-Marie Cognon
  • Patent number: 6247874
    Abstract: A strap drain material adapted for use in soil conservation in the hillside regions, in subterranean drainage for orchards and farmlands and in drainage system of the tunnels, road basement and basement of the buildings is formed on one surface of the flexible strap like or panel like body with a plurality of drainage grooves arranged parallel densely spaced-apart along the direction of the width and extending whole length along the direction of the length and including slit like openings capable of producing capillary action and interior channels expanding to form rounded holes. By the difference in water level at the two ends of the channels or the syphonic force so produced the capacity to absorb water is increased and water is collected and drained away. The interior of the part of the drain material where there is without drainage grooves is embedded with a plurality of longitudinally parallel arranged reinforcements of metal filament, synthetic filament or of crisscross network formed thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Inventor: Ming-Chun Hu
  • Publication number: 20010002968
    Abstract: A detention filter system for the temporary accumulation and storage of storm water runoff is disclosed for limiting the rate of runoff from a developed tract of land to no more than that which was naturally discharged from the same tract when in its prior undeveloped state. The system includes one or more conventional rip rap filled gabion boxes which may be aligned end-to-end along the edge of a developed parcel of real estate so that storm water can run off into the boxes and temporarily accumulate therein. The system also includes a sheet of porous fabric or perforated sheet, attached to and covering a surface of the gabion boxes to restrict the rate of flow of storm water runoff flowing through the boxes and the sheet to a downstream storm drain, storm sewer or stream. The sheet may be formed of two or more layers of the porous fabric or perforated sheet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 1999
    Publication date: June 7, 2001
    Inventor: CHARLES E. BLACK
  • Patent number: 6241421
    Abstract: A drainage assembly is disclosed for draining water from the vicinity of a subterranean construction surface, such as a subgrade foundation wall. The assembly comprises a hollow drainage panel formed by a sheet-like base and a filter media, the filter media being spaced apart from the base by a plurality of members that project from the inner surface of the base. The base has at least one hinge, and preferably two closely spaced parallel hinges, extending along its entire length between adjacent side edges, thereby allowing the panel to be easily folded and set into place against a foundation, with the portion above the hinge resting against the vertical foundation wall and the portion below the hinge resting atop the foundtion's horizontal footing. The apparatus further comprises a connector assembly that connects the panel to a standard drain pipe to convey water away from the foundation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Royal Ten Cate (USA), Inc.
    Inventors: Wilson Harvie, Thomas M. van der Meulen
  • Patent number: 6242062
    Abstract: The invention relates to a base layer for a combined synthetic and natural turf comprising a fabric of which at least a part of the weft and/or warp threads is manufactured from a biodegradable material and/or is wholly absent so that the fabric contains apertures, and synthetic turf fibers which are least partially cowoven with the fabric and of which one or both ends form synthetic grass blades. These ends only protrude from the fabric at those locations where the non-degradable warp and weft threads intersect. The base layer is used in combined synthetic and natural turfs comprising a foundation, optionally a first layer of growth substrate and a base layer according to the invention which is provided with a second layer of growth substrate in which grass plants grow. The invention further relates to a method for laying a combined turf using the base layer of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Southwest Recreational Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Hugo de Vries
  • Patent number: 6226928
    Abstract: A base for a manhole or catch basin structure having an embedded plastic canal-bed liner and a corresponding blocking member or hood. The plastic liner has an annular, outwardly extending flange which becomes embedded in a sidewall of the base to form a unitary structure when the concrete is poured. The liner is not subject to delamination from the canal-bed and includes bosses for additional anchoring to the base. The canal-bed liner and hood serve to protect the concrete base and sidewalls of the manhole or catch basin from corrosive fluids, thus extending the useful life of the manhole structure. The hood may be secured to the sidewalls of the structure or may be engaged and sealed to a rim of the liner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Royal Environmental Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Julian P. Trangsrud
  • Patent number: 6220957
    Abstract: A fan unit has inlet and outlet ducts facing in the same direction. A reversing shuttle is connected to the inlet and outlet ducts of the fan unit and includes a diverter damper and two opposing dampers. The reversing shuttle further includes an outlet that is connectable to a duct network that is under a sports field or portions of a golf course. When the fan unit is running, depending on how the opposing dampers and diverter damper are positioned, air is either blown into the duct network, thereby causing air and possibly other additives to enter the soil profile of the field, or sucked (vacuumed) from the duct network, thereby draining moisture through the soil profile and into the duct network. Moving the diverter damper from a first position to a second position while changing which of the opposing dampers is open and which is closed reverses the air flow in the duct network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: SubAir, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher B. Clarkson
  • Patent number: 6221445
    Abstract: An artificial turf is disclosed which comprises an outer artificial grass layer having a generally uniform exterior playing surface. A deflection layer is disposed below the artificial grass layer. The deflection layer has a prescribed height to provide resiliency for absorbing impact shocks from foot traffic and playing on the artificial grass layer. The deflection layer has a plurality of interstices providing open passages for water drainage; and loose particles are dispersed into the interstices of the deflection layer up to a prescribed level to provide stability and enhance shock absorption so that the deflection layer deflects when the artificial grass is impacted to assist in absorbing the impact and maintain normal playing action of the playing surface of the artificial grass layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: U.S. Greentech, Inc.
    Inventor: James Martin Jones
  • Patent number: 6206612
    Abstract: An apparatus for preventing the contamination of a fresh water source by grey water to be land applied, the apparatus comprising a source of grey water, a source of fresh water, a mixing tank having inlets for fresh and grey water as well as outlets for mixed fresh/grey water, and a safety overflow to prevent contamination of the fresh water source by grey water. There is a total disconnect between fresh water and grey water. Also provided is a means for preparing a desired mixture of fresh and grey water to be land applied, having desired characteristics of concentration of nitrogen, phosphorous, and other nutrients. A means for automatically transferring grey water from a lagoon or holding pond to an additional tank when the level of the grey water in the lagoon or holding pond exceeds a desired level is provided. Finally, the invention allows injection of additional nutrients, herbicides, pesticides and the like into the mixture to produce a desired composition for land application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: Tim Meyer
  • Patent number: 6178710
    Abstract: A breathing system for a steel reinforced concrete slab or pile slab allows water to penetrate the slab from both directions, upward and downward, thereby relieving any water pressure differential across the slab. This minimizes stresses on the slab, and maintains the water table. A plurality of apertures are distributed over the surface of the slab, and extend between the upper and lower surfaces. Each aperture may include a pipe. The apertures are evenly spaced apart in between the reinforcing bars, so as not to compromise the strength of the slab. The apertures will allow water to penetrate evenly over the entire surface of the slab. Layers of sand or crushed stone adjacent the upper and lower surfaces convey water to and from the apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Inventor: Louis R. Colalillo
  • Patent number: 6171984
    Abstract: This invention relates to generally to geosynthetic materials which can be used for earthen reinforcement, and more particularly to a novel geosynthetic material exhibiting less strain under an initial tensile load then presently available geosynthetic materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignee: PPG Industries Ohio, Inc.
    Inventors: John N. Paulson, Mikhail M. Girgis, Jeffrey A. Neubauer, Narasimhan Raghupathi
  • Patent number: 6161776
    Abstract: A turf irrigation distribution and reservoir product and method ecosystem employing a substantially continuous mat on the soil surface on which turf is placed or produced, the mat having a primary, lateral water distribution structure which distributes water from a water charging inlet throughout the lateral area to the mat periphery where it is restrained, the water then being distributed vertically above and below the lateral distribution structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Assignee: Nibco Inc.
    Inventor: Joe D. Byles
  • Patent number: 6152651
    Abstract: An apparatus for raising a component of an underground sprinkler including a hydraulic actuator in fluid communication with a pressurized fluid source normally associated with an underground sprinkler system, and operably connected to a base of the underground sprinkler. The hydraulic pressure provided by the pressurized fluid source is used to drive the hydraulic actuator and adjust the level of the base of the underground sprinkler within the ground. In a particular embodiment, the hydraulic actuator includes a hydraulic cylinder and a wand in fluid communication with the pressurized water source. The wand is inserted into the ground around the sprinkler base, thus fluidizing the ground and allowing the operator to more easily move the sprinkler base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: EPAC, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven R. Glidewell, Leo T. Effenberger
  • Patent number: 6152650
    Abstract: A liquid distribution system for distributing effluent from a source of waste water. This liquid distribution system is contained within a distribution box and includes liquid inlet piping and a series of liquid flow splitting elements arranged in parallel, perpendicular to the horizontal flow of effluent through the distribution box. In addition, an adjustment system is incorporated into the liquid distribution system for maintaining the level of the liquid distribution system in the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: Zoeller Company
    Inventor: Michael V. Heine
  • Patent number: 6152652
    Abstract: A pit assembly 10 is provided to assist in the installation of a pit, such as a dynamometer pit, into cementitious material. The pit assembly 10 includes a pan 20 which has an open top and an interior region having a desired size for housing equipment, such as a dynamometer. A floor of the pan 20 is preferably at least partially sloped so that any liquids within the pan 20 migrate to a sump 40 in the pan 20. A rebar cage 50 surrounds the pan 20. The rebar cage 50 is securely attached to the pan 20 through ties 52, 54, 56. The rebar cage 50 includes various different loops 60, 62, 64 and other rebar segments forming the rebar cage 50. The rebar cage 50 is attached to the pan 20 before the cementitious material is poured around the pit assembly 10 and before the pan 20 is placed in the desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventor: Sammy J. Mosby
  • Patent number: 6142703
    Abstract: An underground fluid exchange system for control of delivery of fertilization, irrigation and pesticides to and removal from a selected fully encapsulated the turf area of a playing field, including golf course green, having a selected soil profile including a combination turf and topsoil turf segment, a porous soil segment and an impervious soil segment wherein the fluid exchange system comprises a bi-flow porous conduit having uniform porosity that has a selectable exchange rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Inventors: Charles Wilmot, Anthony P. Nickinello, Jr., William Ormsby
  • Patent number: 6132136
    Abstract: A drainage water pumping system. A number of drainage pumps are positioned at two different levels. Drainage water flowing into a drainage water pumping system from an underground inflow main pipeline is pumped to a discharge destination. Preferably the drainage pumps installed at the lower installation level have a high pump head and a small capacity, while the drainage pumps installed at the higher installation level have a low pump head and a large capacity. The drainage pumps can be in a circular arrangement with a congregated delivery pipeline installed lengthwise at the center of the circular arrangement and having each of the drainage pumps connected to it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kunio Takada, Kenji Otani, Sadashi Tanaka
  • Patent number: 6132137
    Abstract: An elongate grate capable of securing an edge portion of an artificial turf surface within a drainage channel is provided. The grate includes an elongate central portion defining a plurality of openings to permit runoff from the artificial turf surface to flow into the drainage channel. Connected to at least one exterior edge of the central portion is a downwardly extending wall portion being interior of the exterior edge for applying a downwardly directed engagement force to the edge portion of the artificial turf surface. According to another embodiment of the grate, an elongate slot is integrally defined in the central portion having a width such the edge portion of the artificial turf can be frictionally engaged therein. According to yet another embodiment, a grate is provided with a central portion positioned between opposed edge portions and defines a plurality of openings therein such that an impervious athletic surface can be formed over each of the edge portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: ABT, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles E. Gunter
  • Patent number: 6132138
    Abstract: This invention relates to a gray water recycling invention that utilizes filtered gray water for maintaining constant moisture levels in building foundations and for other irrigation uses. The invention allows for the mixture of pesticides with a gray water stream injected under a building in order to treat for insects. Additionally, pesticides, fungicides, or fertilizers can be injected into a gray water stream prior to its application in landscape irrigating. The invention has applications in both a single residence and fill development real estate setting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Larry Wayne Haese
  • Patent number: 6132139
    Abstract: A paddy field water level regulating device 6 installed between a water pipe buried along a farm road 43 and a farming plot 42, the device consisting of a cylindrical feed and drain basin 60 with a closed bottom, having a farming plot feed and drain port 61 communicating with the farming plot 42; a water inflow and drain section located in the geed and drain basin 60 near the bottom thereof and connected to the water pipe; a drain valve located in the water inflow and drain section; and a height-adjustable water level regulating weir 65 located in and water inflow and drain section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignees: Mitsubishi Plastics, Inc.,, Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd., Kabushiki Kaisha Paddy Kenkyusho
    Inventors: Taisuke Hashimoto, Kiminori Takao, Tsuneo Onodera
  • Patent number: 6129482
    Abstract: A first molded polymer field drain panel is made from a moldable polymer sheet material and has an elongated chamber with an arched-shape, a first end, a second end and transverse strengthening ribs protruding outwardly therebetween. The elongated chamber has a smaller transverse strengthening end rib, a transverse strengthening end rib and a smaller transverse strengthening intermediate rib. The smaller transverse strengthening end rib is molded at the first end shaped for being embracingly overlapped by a corresponding transverse strengthening end rib of a corresponding elongated chamber of a second molded polymer field drain panel. The transverse strengthening end rib is molded at the second end for overlapping a corresponding smaller transverse strengthening end rib of the corresponding elongated chamber of the second molded polymer field drain panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Inventor: Robert J. Ditullio
  • Patent number: 6120210
    Abstract: A method for providing storage and transportation for water such as natural precipitation collected from a large area comprising the steps of moving water through a porous medium contained within a natural conduit under a hydrologic potential such that the porous medium reduces evaporative loss of the water during storage and transport and moving the water through a network of a hydrologic circuit where it can be directly supplied to end users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Inventor: Kenneth J. Hsu
  • Patent number: 6112766
    Abstract: A liquid distribution system for distributing effluent from a source of waste water. This liquid distribution system is contained within a distribution box and includes liquid inlet piping, a ramp system, and a low capacity liquid flow splitting system, including slots and capillary grooves. A high capacity flow splitting system may also be included. In addition, an adjustment system is incorporated into the liquid distribution system for maintaining the level of the liquid distribution system in the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Zoeller Co.
    Inventors: Kenneth E. Zoeller, William West, Matthew Byers
  • Patent number: 6102618
    Abstract: An underground water channel is provided in an underground of a large depth, and rain water and the like flow into this underground channel from flood control channels, conduits and rivers through vertical shafts. A pump well of a pump station is connected to a downstream end of the underground channel, and water flowing into the pump well is discharged by a pump to a discharge tank. The pump is disposed generally at a medium water level of the underground channel, and a lowest water level L.W.L enabling draining is the medium water level of the underground channel. In an open channel flow operation of an open channel-closed channel mixed flow operation, water level of the underground channel is maintained at the lowest water level L.W.L, so that the underground channel is in an open channel condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kunio Takada, Kenji Otani, Masayuki Yamada, Saburo Maru, Sumio Sudo, Sadashi Tanaka
  • Patent number: 6095718
    Abstract: There is provided by the invention a subsurface drainage system which promotes efficient and controlled subsurface drainage of fluids, such as irrigation water, applied to the surface of land such as a football field. A drain core apparatus is provided that provides rapid infiltration and later movement of subsurface fluids, but which is resistant to settling, compacting and crushing. The drain core is a thermoplastic mat having crush-resistant support members integrated with and upon a backing grid which holds the support members in spaced relation to one another. Fluid flowing into and through the drain core is collected and stored in a fluid storage container. The fluid storage container is adapted to be buried beneath the ground, and has an easily assembled internal support structure composed of vertically layered thermoplastic mats. The mats permit fluids to flow freely within the container, and yet lend vertical and structural stability to the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Invisible Structures, Inc.
    Inventor: William Walter Bohnhoff
  • Patent number: 6089788
    Abstract: A vertical drain for draining fluid from ground soil, which drain comprises an elongate core having one or more channels extending along the length of the core to receive fluid; electrically conductive means extending substantially along the length of the core; and a filter surrounding the core, wherein fluid from ground being consolidated passes through the filter into the one or more channels in the core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: RasWILL Representative Pte. Ltd.
    Inventor: Richard Douglas Sandanasamy
  • Patent number: 6088959
    Abstract: A process for conditioning a golf green which preferably is constructed in accordance with the specifications of the United States Golf Association. In this process, air is blown at a flow rate of from about 250 to about 1000 cubic feet per minute onto the top surface of the golf green while simultaneously withdrawing air from said vent side of the main feeder line at a flow rate of from about 250 to about 1,000 cubic feet per minute.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventors: Thomas R. Wait, Andrew M. Masciarella
  • Patent number: 6082928
    Abstract: A draining wall comprises a plurality of elementary panels (P) filled with a filtering material (10), wherein the panels are separated from one another by intermediate elements (J) and in that an element (2) connecting each pair of adjacent panels is embedded in the lower part of each intermediate element. The application also discloses a method and an element for its implementation. The invention is particularly useful for landslide areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Soletanche Bachy France
    Inventors: Alain Deniau, Alain Soriano
  • Patent number: 6082932
    Abstract: A system for stabilizing moisture content of soil around and beneath the foundation of a building. The system includes a source of pressurized water; one or more conduits buried in the soil around the building foundation, at least a portion of soil conduit being pervious to water, allowing water therein to enter said soil; and a remotely operated valve connecting the source of water to the conduits to permit or prevent flow of water, respectively, from the source of water to the conduits. A controller is operatively connected to the remotely operated valve for transmitting signals to the valve for opening and closing thereof in a predetermined time cycle. At least one soil moisture sensitive device is operatively connected to the controller and/or the valve for interrupting signals transmitted to the valve, to prevent opening of the valve when the moisture content of the soil exceeds a predetermined amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Inventor: Gary L. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6079903
    Abstract: A drain channel system comprising a channel with a lower channel section, which lower channel section incorporates a continuous cavity that is open toward the bottom and underneath which a seepage area is located for draining off surface water, the cavity being connected to a reservoir, a box drain or collecting tank, the reservoir, box drain or collecting tank being connected on its part to a device for feeding in surface water, and a dirt filter being provided in the reservoir, box drain or collecting tank, or between the reservoir or box drain or collecting tank and the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Inventors: Frank Wagner, Peter Kruse, Martin Dietrich, Henrdik Wahl
  • Patent number: 6076992
    Abstract: An underdrain pipe has a pipe wall in which wall portions rectangular in section and wall portions circular in section are disposed alternately in a longitudinal direction of the pipe, in which a number of water collecting small holes are formed in portions of the pipe wall, and in which the whole of the pipe wall is formed of material of synthetic resin or rubber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Totaku Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Kouki Fukui, Yasuhiro Kikumori
  • Patent number: 6074130
    Abstract: A manhole drop system is described which is convenient to inspect. A catch bowl made of an integral structure is formed to capture and channel sewer fluid entering a manhole an elevation that is above a bottom located sewer line. The catch bowl has its upper portion shaped to reveal both a lower exit port leading to down drain and to reveal the discharge opening from a side feed. The catch bowl has a front surface that is curved sufficiently to enable a relatively secure seal between the front surface and a curved wall of the manhole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: Duran, Inc.
    Inventor: Lee A. Duran