Including Subsurface Moisture Barrier Patents (Class 405/38)
  • Patent number: 11913214
    Abstract: A bioretention system includes a number of connected wall portions defining an enclosure. Each wall portion includes a pair of spaced supports that support one or more panels that are interlocked with the pair of supports via mating interlocking features. Where a wall portion includes an upper panel atop of a lower panel, a lower edge of the upper panel and a top edge of the lower panel are in contact with each other to form the wall portion. The supports are then connected in spaced relation on the transverse axis by internal bars or beams which provide support for the wall portions without the need for external soil reinforcement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Assignee: Infra-SGA, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy J. Stromberg, Sean Garrigan, Michael P. Stromberg
  • Patent number: 11858018
    Abstract: An in-situ remediation method for a lead-zinc slag dump is provided, belonging to the technical field of prevention and control of soil pollution, including: step 1, providing a curing agent layer, a clay barrier layer and a planting soil layer on a surface of the lead-zinc slag dump in sequence, and providing an interceptor ditch and a retaining wall at a highest position and a lowest position of the lead-zinc slag dump respectively; step 2, planting ground covers and/or shrubs in the planting soil layer; and step 3, providing baffle plates and a plurality of regulating assemblies in lead-zinc slag, wherein each of the regulating assemblies comprises a water tank, a blind ditch and a first isolation plate, and a water outlet end of the water tank and a water outlet end of the blind ditch are connected with a reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2023
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: GUIZHOU UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Pan Wu, Han Tu, Shui Zhang, Youfa Luo, Manzhi Chen
  • Patent number: 11603652
    Abstract: A tunnel for detention, infiltration, and retention of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2023
    Inventor: Shahriar Eftekharzadeh
  • Patent number: 11505901
    Abstract: A sports field comprises a base structure and a cover. The cover is at least partly permeable to fluid, especially water. The base structure comprises voids for containing fluid. The base structure forms a substantially continuous deck supporting the cover. The cover comprises or is formed by an artificial sports layer, such as artificial grass. At least a number of the voids are in fluid communication with each other. Wick elements are provided fluidly connecting at least a number of the voids with the cover for supplying fluid from the voids to the top layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2022
    Assignee: PERMAVOID LIMITED
    Inventors: Carolus Hermanus van Raam, Andrew Bryan Shuttleworth, Paul David Culleton
  • Patent number: 11215994
    Abstract: A robotic vehicle for moving above ground while fabricating a subsurface polymer layer to protect an underground structure is provided. The robotic vehicle includes: a body; a rotational member that contacts the ground and moves the body over the ground; a ripper assembly having a proximal end that moves with the body, and a distal end that moves underground at a fabrication depth in response to the movement of the proximal end while fabricating the polymer layer; a ground penetrating radar (GPR) that locates and measures a depth of the underground structure below the ground; and a computerized control system that controls the rotational member, the distal end of the ripper assembly, and the GPR to move the body over the located underground structure while tracking the location of the underground structure and fabricating the polymer layer at the fabrication depth and above the measured depth of the underground structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2022
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Iqbal Hussain, Abdullah Zubail
  • Patent number: 10837605
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system and method for containing and mitigating spills and leaks from pipelines. According to one embodiment, the system comprises a pipeline for transporting a liquid; a barrier layer comprising material impermeable to the liquid; a trench excavated with sufficient depth and width to accommodate at least the pipeline as well as the barrier layer; two berms; and backfill. The berms are substantially parallel and positioned on either side of the trench. The barrier layer is disposed to cover the trench and berms, reaching at least the ridgeline of the berms. The pipeline is disposed within the trench above the barrier layer. The backfill is placed on top of the pipeline and the barrier layer, and the backfill is graded to form a grade bridging the ridgelines of the berms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Assignee: Mitigation and Resilience Strategies, LLC
    Inventors: Belinda Anne Bentley, Ashley Lewis Howard
  • Patent number: 10159203
    Abstract: An irrigation system which is adapted to provide selective irrigation directly to the roots of plants. In the preferred embodiment an underground housing is used to contain the pump and control mechanism. Extending from the housing is a grouping of water permeable pipes or reservoirs which are separated from the surface and each other by water barriers. The water barriers restrict water flow therethrough but are adapted to permit roots from the plants to pass therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Inventor: Mark E. Ogram
  • Patent number: 9462761
    Abstract: A distribution system and method for simultaneously distributing and reclaiming a liquid with a single, multi-directional system pathway. The system pathway follows a circuitous path for both receiving liquid from and returning reclaimed liquid to a reservoir positioned beneath a ground surface. A distribution pathway, such as a pipe, may carry the liquid with pressure from the reservoir to a distribution outlet. A reclamation pathway, such as a perforated pipe, may encapsulate the distribution pathway, and capture runoff and excessive liquid through at least one aperture for returning the liquid back to the reservoir. In some embodiments, the system pathway may include one perforated pipe that forms a barrier between the distribution pathway and the reclamation pathway. A film may cover the perforations to allow for pressurizing the water. A system of pumps, valves, and a control apparatus help regulate the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Inventor: Charles Tyler Livvix
  • Patent number: 9309639
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system, a method, a geocomposite and a fluid recovery connector in aggregates 5 (S), the system being characterized in that it comprises, on the one hand, at least one layer, so-called barrier layer (5), having permeability adapted to the blockage of fluid (G, L) and beneath which is arranged at least one geocomposite (2) comprising perforated mini-drains (23) and at least one layer, so-called 10 through layer (22) having permeability adapted to the passage of fluid (G, L), and on the other hand, connectors (4) arranged to connect the perforated mini-drains (23) to discharge pipes (3) connected to at least one pumping device (6), such that at least one fluid (G, L) present in the aggregates (S) can reach the interior of the perforated mini-drains (23) and be discharged to 15 the pumping device (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Assignee: AFITEX INTERNATIONAL
    Inventor: Yves Durkheim
  • Patent number: 9011041
    Abstract: A subirrigation system 10 includes a water-impervious member 16, and keeps water content in soil of a cultivated land 200 in a proper state for growing a plant. The water-impervious member 16 is formed into an upper opening vessel shape, and has a water reserving function. Water is fed to an inner portion of the water-impervious member 16 from a water tank 12 via a feed water pipe 14, whereby a soil portion 26 in a gravitational water state is formed. A water level 28 of the gravitational water within the water-impervious member 16 is properly controlled to a desired water level by a water level controller 18 provided in the feed water pipe 14. The gravitational water within the water-impervious member 16 controlled to the desired water level is appropriately sucked up to the soil in an upper layer in accordance with a capillary phenomenon. Accordingly, a soil portion 30 in a capillary water state having proper water content is formed in the cultivated land 200.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignees: Kubota-C.I. Co., Ltd., Paddy Research Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Naoki Ono, Hiroaki Sakamoto, Kazuhiro Hirao, Toshinobu Kakita, Yasushi Wada, Yoshihito Fujii, Tsuneo Onodera
  • Publication number: 20140367899
    Abstract: A vertical drainage system for a heap leaching operation comprising vertical drainage conduits for draining fluid pockets down through the strata of a heap pile. The drainage conduits are spaced in a parallel array throughout the ore heap, and are preferably in fluid communication from a top of said ore heap to said one or more collection pipes for draining trapped and avoiding slope or geotechnical failure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2014
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventor: James M. Cramer
  • Patent number: 8834065
    Abstract: A water detention system comprises a sub-base of crushed rock or stone overlying an impermeable layer which may be naturally-occurring, as in an impermeable sub-grade, or may be formed by an impermeable membrane laid over the sub-grade prior to the sub-base layer. Over the sub-base layer is an incompletely impermeable layer the impermeability of which is compromised by openings in the form of slits or by spacing between adjacent strips forming the layer. These openings allow water to percolate downwardly through the layer into the sub-base, but substantially inhibit the escape of moisture by evaporation thereby serving to retain the collected water. Above the incompletely impermeable layer may be a laying course of finer particulate material such as pea gravel over which may be laid a wear surface of slabs or blocks to form an area for traffic, such as a roadway or parking area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Formpave Holdings, Limited
    Inventors: Peter Hart, Stephen Richard Spikes
  • Patent number: 8753036
    Abstract: A liquid retention system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention comprises a plurality of pipes having a wall defining a pipe conduit, at least some of the pipes having at least one hole through the wall for allowing liquid to enter the conduit. Each of two sets of pipe groups is arranged into a two layers of the pipes. The pipes in one layer are arranged in adjacent proximity along their lengths such that the walls of adjacent pipes define a plurality of gaps while the pipes in the second layer are at least partially seated in the gaps. The cylindrical axes of the pipes in the two pipe groups relative to one another are non-parallel. The pipe groups are arranged in a liquid retention portion, which is at least partially enclosed to retain liquid therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Inventor: Douglas G. Everson
  • Publication number: 20130209172
    Abstract: A subsurface retention barrier system installed in situ to retain water in a projected root zone of one or more plants is disclosed. An apparatus and system for installing the subsurface retention barriers and methods related thereto are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2011
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
    Inventor: Alvin J.M. Smucker
  • Patent number: 8449219
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a water-storing and water-cleaning system. Said system is designed in such a manner that it can be used irrespective of location. It is used, inter alia, in agriculture, in horticulture and in reforestation. Said system comprises a reservoir (2) that is filled with a porous material (3), into which the water is seeped. In order to displace the seepage path, the reservoir (2) contains at least one barrier layer (5) made of a water-impermeable material, that separates the two layers made of the porous material (3) and comprises an outlet (6) for connecting the layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Luxin (Green Planet) AG
    Inventors: Holger Burkhardt, Arthur Glanzmann
  • Publication number: 20130129420
    Abstract: A berm to increase capacity of an existing landfill comprises a reinforced portion and backfill material. The landfill comprises a waste-receiving recess having a surface and an outer perimeter, an edge surface peripherally adjacent at least a portion of the outer perimeter, and an existing accumulation of waste within the recess having a collective top surface. The reinforced portion has opposing inner and outer surfaces and comprises structural fill material and a plurality of reinforcing members disposed therein. The backfill material has an inner surface adjacent the inner surface of the reinforced portion. The backfill material comprises contaminated fill material and is at least partially encapsulated by an impermeable membrane. At least a portion of the berm sits on at least a portion of the edge surface of the landfill. Portions of the berm are substantially parallel to corresponding portions of the outer perimeter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: AWT IP, LLC
    Inventor: AWT IP, LLC
  • Publication number: 20130101351
    Abstract: An underlayment layer is configured to support an artificial turf assembly. The underlayment layer comprises a core with a top side and a bottom side. The top side has a plurality of spaced apart, upwardly oriented projections that define channels suitable for water flow along the top side of the core when the underlayment layer is positioned beneath an overlying artificial turf assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: Brock International
    Inventor: Brock International
  • Patent number: 8348548
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods, devices and systems to maintain the accessibility and integrity of equipment contained in underground housings. The methods, devices and systems and methods of the present invention maintain the accessibility and integrity of equipment contained in underground housings by providing at least one barrier that prevents burrowing animals from off-loading displaced ground dirt or other debris into the space created by the underground housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventor: George W. Keeney
  • Patent number: 8256989
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a water-storing and water-cleaning system. Said system is designed in such a manner that it can be used irrespective of location. It is used, inter alia, in agriculture, in horticulture and in reforestation. Said system comprises a reservoir (2) that is filled with a porous material (3), into which the water is seeped. In order to displace the seepage path, the reservoir (2) contains at least one barrier layer (5) made of a water-impermeable material, that separates the two layers made of the porous material (3) and comprises an outlet (6) for connecting the layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Luxin (Green Planet) AG
    Inventors: Holger Burkhardt, Arthur Glanzmann
  • Patent number: 8240950
    Abstract: An embodiment of a water retention and distribution system for use in an underground installation comprises at least one layer of at least one pipe with at least one hole therein. The at least one layer may be fluidly connected to a water source and a means for distribution. A water impermeable cover encloses the at least one layer. Water in the at least one layer may be distributed into the ground through a vertical pipe that includes a divider that separates the vertical pipe into first and second halves for controlling the flow of water into the means for distribution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Douglas G. Everson
  • Patent number: 8219254
    Abstract: A combined water management and communication system for a water provider wirelessly communicating with selected ones of the multiplicity of user wireless transceiver for changing water distribution to selective ones of the multiplicity of independent users upon an undesired water flow characteristic within the water distribution channels. The multiplicity of user wireless transceivers communicating with proximate user wireless transceivers for forming a network for communicating information to a third party wireless transceiver unrelated to liquid flow. The invention is also incorporated into a remote controlled solar operated wireless irrigation valve. The invention is further incorporated into an improved water management irrigation system incorporating an adaptive weather based controller that is adjusted by a weather based sensor base controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Water Optimizer LLC.
    Inventor: Thomas M. O'Connor
  • Patent number: 8192109
    Abstract: A subsurface irrigation system includes an athletic field or the like with a length and width equal to the length and width of the official rules for a sporting event or covering an entire agricultural field and with an excavation depth of about 25 to 50 centimeters. The system also includes a generally impervious plastic sheet or the like that covers the excavation and extends upwardly above the sides thereof. A source of water is disposed outside of the field and a plurality of distribution pipes and water distributors are disposed in the excavated area and extend substantially over the length and width of the excavation. In addition, a main channel connects the distribution pipe to the source of water and a plurality of water distributors are operatively connected to the distribution pipes for receiving water therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Inventor: Abdulreidha Abdulrasoul AlSaffar
  • Patent number: 8152997
    Abstract: A stormwater control system including conveyance, filtration and discharge systems. The conveyance system includes a set of conduits and connections providing a flow path through a compacted soil embankment from an upper inlet to a lower discharge area of an underlying soil infiltration zone. The control system has configurations for transferring stormwater from pervious and impervious surfaces to the soil infiltration zone. The control system optionally includes a media filter device that may be installed within the conveyance system to intercept sediment and other contaminants prior to discharge within the underlying soil infiltration zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: N.L. Olson & Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Norman L. Olson, Wesley R. Johnson, Richard H. Langford, II
  • Patent number: 8083436
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods, devices and systems to maintain the accessibility and integrity of equipment contained in underground housings. The methods, devices and systems and methods of the present invention maintain the accessibility and integrity of equipment contained in underground housings by providing at least one barrier that prevents burrowing animals from off-loading displaced ground dirt or other debris into the space created by the underground housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Inventor: George W. Keeney
  • Publication number: 20110200390
    Abstract: A mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) wall system that permits water drainage through joints while also preventing undesirable migration of backfill through joints, thus dramatically reducing or eliminating undesirable vegetation by incorporation of a free draining seal (FDS) in panel joints, wherein the FDS structure blocks backfill but permits water migration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Inventor: Joseph E. Rodriguez
  • Publication number: 20110188933
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a water-storing and water-cleaning system. Said system is designed in such a manner that it can be used irrespective of location. It is used, inter alia, in agriculture, in horticulture and in reforestation. Said system comprises a reservoir (2) that is filled with a porous material (3), into which the water is seeped. In order to displace the seepage path, the reservoir (2) contains at least one barrier layer (5) made of a water-impermeable material, that separates the two layers made of the porous material (3) and comprises an outlet (6) for connecting the layers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Applicant: LUXIN (GREEN PLANET) AG
    Inventors: Holger Burkhardt, Arthur Glanzmann
  • Patent number: 7988851
    Abstract: A stormwater control system including conveyance, filtration and discharge systems. The conveyance system includes a set of conduits and connections providing a flow path through a compacted soil embankment from an upper inlet to a lower discharge area of an underlying soil infiltration zone. The control system has configurations for transferring stormwater from pervious and impervious surfaces to the soil infiltration zone. The control system optionally includes a media filter device that may be installed within the conveyance system to intercept sediment and other contaminants prior to discharge within the underlying soil infiltration zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: N. L. Olson & Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Norman L. Olson, Wesley R. Johnson, Richard H. Langford, II
  • Publication number: 20110070026
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods, devices and systems to maintain the accessibility and integrity of equipment contained in underground housings. The methods, devices and systems and methods of the present invention maintain the accessibility and integrity of equipment contained in underground housings by providing at least one barrier that prevents burrowing animals from off-loading displaced ground dirt or other debris into the space created by the underground housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Inventor: George W. Keeney
  • Patent number: 7810291
    Abstract: A drainage tile used on a footing of a foundation to promote drainage of water along the footing and away from a foundation wall. The drainage tile comes in lengths that are less than the length of the footing. The drainage tile can be secured together with other drainage tiles to span the length of the footing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Inventor: Kevin McPherson
  • Patent number: 7780374
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods, devices and systems to maintain the accessibility and integrity of equipment contained in underground housings. The methods, devices and systems and methods of the present invention maintain the accessibility and integrity of equipment contained in underground housings by providing at least one barrier that prevents burrowing animals from off-loading displaced ground dirt or other debris into the space created by the underground housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Inventor: George W. Keeney
  • Patent number: 7743696
    Abstract: A pot (40) shown having a well formed by a side wall connecting a base wall aperture (43) and internal aperture (44). A mesh (42) is provided to retain liquid transferring material. The invention provides a liquid transfer means for transferring liquid between growth medium and a local environment external to the pot and adjacent the base wall, the liquid transfer means transferring liquid to in or from an internal zone in the chamber wherein the internal zone is spaced from the bottom wall. Alternative embodiments provide a solid liquid permeable plug (20) which may be inserted in a tight nesting fitting through a bottom wall aperture (21) or through a well (36). Alternatively, a wick arrangement (56) may be provided to insert through a well or a side wall aperture (65) and extending into the internal zones. The conduit may be formed as a slot (52). A cap (54) may be optionally be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Anova Solutions Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: Malcolm Nigel Hunter
  • Patent number: 7722288
    Abstract: A drainage system for use with a synthetic grass surface, the system having a base having a center portion with a first depth and a perimeter channel with a second depth being greater than the first depth, a plurality of tiles above the base, and a synthetic grass above the plurality of tiles. Also, a business method facilitates installation of a synthetic grass system which utilizes drainage tiles positioned between a stone base and the bottom of the synthetic turf, wherein a mold for manufacturing the tile is provided from the turf company to a manufacturing company located in relatively close proximity to where the synthetic turf system is to be installed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Fieldturf Tarkett Inc.
    Inventors: Jean Prevost, Stephen Murphy, Jean Beliveau
  • Publication number: 20100092240
    Abstract: A water retention structure is provided below the surface of the soil in which plants are to be grown. The soil is excavated to a depth d below the plant's root structure and one, or more, water impervious polymeric sheet 10 is placed in the excavation. Each sheet has raised lands for supporting a non-woven filter cloth 10. Between the polymeric sheet and the cloth filter and among the raised lands, valleys or depressions are defined. Excess water is collected in these valleys for aspiration by the plant roots, and any additional water is fed to a storage reservoir, where the water can be pumped out for use elsewhere, and/or for use in irrigating the same soil during periods of reduced rainfall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventor: Joseph Glasser
  • Publication number: 20090246418
    Abstract: An interlocking substrate for artificial turf that includes a base pad having an interlocking tab-and-notch structure that is operable to lock one piece of the base pad to an adjacent piece of the base pad and including channels formed in the upper surface of the substrate to provide drainage and to carry heating and cooling tubes to regulate the temperature of the artificial turf.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald Wise
  • Publication number: 20090239973
    Abstract: The PAM delivery product is a solid form of polyacrylamide polymer (PAM). Among other things, the PAM delivery product can be used to prevent ruts formed during center-pivot irrigation, prevent erosion of irrigation ditches, clarify wastewater, and assist seed germination and seedling establishment. The PAM delivery product includes pure PAM and water to create a solid “loaf.” Water-soluble calcium (Ca) can also be added to the PAM delivery product depending on the specific application for the PAM delivery product. When Ca is used in the PAM delivery product, it is present in a 9:1 ratio to the PAM There are no fixing agents needed in the PAM delivery product; it is pure active ingredient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2006
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventors: Richard C. Roos, Richard A. Hansen
  • Patent number: 7585555
    Abstract: A flooring, for example for pitches for soccer, five-a-side football, American football, rugby, etc. which includes a polyolefin-based impermeable layer and an elastic mattress laid on top of the impermeable layer which includes a core layer having an agglomerate granular material and an envelope that envelops the core layer. A structure of synthetic-grass covering is laid on top of the elastic mattress and includes a sheetlike substrate with a plurality of filiform formations extending from the substrate to simulate the grassy sward of natural turf, as well as a particulate filling material or infill dispersed between the filiform formations to maintain the filiform formations themselves in a substantially upright condition. The flooring is suited to being laid directly on the previously flattened laying foundation so as to bestow a camber thereon to facilitate draining, such as a pitched camber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Mondo S.p.A.
    Inventor: Fernando Stroppiana
  • Publication number: 20080205987
    Abstract: A method of and apparatus for controlling drainage/irrigation of a field includes laying out a network of drainage tiles, which typically may include a main line and a number of lateral lines, extending from higher elevations to lower elevations and exiting through a manually controlled main valve to a drainage ditch. A series of level-responsive valves are incorporated in the main and lateral lines at selected elevations. Each level-responsive valve is normally open until the ambient water level reaches a predetermined level relative to the valve. When the manual valve is closed and a certain level of water is reached adjacent a level-responsive valve, it causes that level-responsive valve to close, thereby cutting off drainage of higher elevations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2008
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Inventors: Brian Scott Furrer, Ronald Gene Schlatter, G. Jason Furrer
  • Patent number: 7287932
    Abstract: A ballasting system for an on-site sewage treatment and disposal system for areas having a ground water level above a minimum depth below grade. A perimeter barrier is arranged around a selected subterraneal volume within a ground area. The perimeter barrier has a circumference and a closed end closest to atmosphere. A pump having a gas intake and a discharge side which discharges gas at a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure is also provided. The discharge side of the pump is in fluid communication with the selected subterraneal volume to lower the ground water level within the perimeter barrier to a level at or below the minimum depth below grade. A flexible membrane is located adjacent the perimeter barrier end and within the ground area. The flexible membrane extends over substantially the entire circumference of the perimeter barrier. A plurality of ballasting beams is located above the flexible membrane and within the ground area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: The English Oak Partnership, L.P.
    Inventor: Alan F. Hassett
  • Patent number: 7144609
    Abstract: An artificial turf system which includes a support layer, a base layer, and an outer layer. The support layer comprises an area of selected size and composition. The base layer comprises at least one grid which consists of a plurality of interconnected cells. The base layer is positioned over the support layer. Each cell forming the grid comprises an upstanding tubular member which includes an upper portion, having a first diameter, and a lower portion having a second diameter. The lower cell portion provides the cell with vertical flexibility. The plurality of cells provide the grid with selected vertical movement on contact providing the artificial turf system with improved softness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: U.S. Greentech, Inc.
    Inventor: Randolph S. Reddick
  • Patent number: 7132467
    Abstract: Polyolefin mouldings that have excellent stability on permanent contact with chlorinated water comprise, as stabilizer, at least a compound selected from the group consisting of i) an epoxidized fatty acid having 3 to 22 carbon atoms or an aklyl ester thereof having 1 to 18 carbon atoms; and/or ii) an organotin compound; and/or iii) a compound containing at least one radical of the formula A or B.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Ciba Specialty Chemicals Corp.
    Inventors: Erich Kramer, Alfred Georges Oertli, Markus Grob
  • Patent number: 7008137
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cover (1) for a drainage channel (2) to be installed in the ground to drain the surface of an area. The cover (1) comprises a substantially planar portion (3) which is constructed so as to cover an opening at the top of the drainage channel (2) and which comprises a projection (5) that extends upward from the planar portion (3). The projection (5) defines an inlet (7) through which the water that runs off from the surface to be drained can enter the drainage channel. In addition, the planar portion (3) defines comprises supplementary apertures (9) to receive water that has percolated down to its lower level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: ACO Severin Ahlmann GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventor: Michael Muller
  • 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: 6877932
    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: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Fieldturf (IP) Inc.
    Inventor: Jean Prévost
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20040126186
    Abstract: A landscaping channel liner apparatus is provided having a longitudinally-extending trough and longitudinally-extending receptacles. The longitudinally-extending trough has a longitudinally-extending floor located between opposed longitudinally-extending side walls extending therefrom. The longitudinally-extending trough also has first and second opposed transverse open ends formed from the floor and side walls. Each of the side walls defines a longitudinally-extending edge located opposite the longitudinally-extending floor. A longitudinally-extending receptacle is located on each longitudinally-extending edge and includes first and second transverse open ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2003
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Inventors: Loren R. Graber, Randy J. Meert
  • Patent number: 6712552
    Abstract: The present invention is an economical and easily installed irrigation system for agricultural products covering large areas. The invention comprises top and bottom layers of geosynthetic material having a non-cohesive, porous material between the layers. A water distribution system is also placed between the layers. This system can be placed directly on the area to be irrigated without digging a trench or hole. Agricultural products, such as turf or row crops, are placed with top soil directly on the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Department of the Interior
    Inventors: William F. Kepler, Alice I. Comer, Kurt F. Von Fay
  • Patent number: 6691472
    Abstract: A foundation protector for a foundation wall prevents moisture being retained in the foundation wall and also provides drainage for surface water so that water does not rest against the surface of the foundation wall. The foundation protector has a smooth exterior surface so that it remains attached to the foundation if earth subsidence occurs. The foundation protector includes a waterproof dimpled sheet with spaced-apart protrusions and an outer waterproof membrane which covers recesses formed by the protrusions and provides a substantially smooth exterior surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Theodore G. Hubert
  • Patent number: 6672016
    Abstract: A sub-floor, perimeter, L-shaped water drainage panel for new construction basements having walls and supporting footings for receiving and draining water running down the walls and/or water entering at the wall/footing interface. The plastic drainage panel is molded with a plurality of spaced frustroconical wells on vertical and horizontal sections thereof, to engage the wall and footing, and space the panels therefrom and to be filled with wet concrete composition, when the floor is poured, to support the wall and footing against the basement floor and prevent relative movement therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Lawrence M. Janesky
  • Patent number: 6634144
    Abstract: A waterproof system for draining water away from a building located in ground having a surface above which a portion of the building extends. The building has a footer and at least one wall extending vertically from the footer. The system includes a first drain member located in a first trench provided in the ground outside the building. A membrane including a first portion and a second portion is provided. The first portion forms a liner which lines the first trench to form a trough for capturing water. The second portion is affixed to an outer surface of the wall along at least a portion of a height of said wall and extending toward the footer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Everdry Marketing & Management Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl Moore, Nick DiCello
  • Patent number: 6558080
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for covering landfill includes a deployer suspended below the bucket of a loader. A roll of film is disposed on the deployer and uncoiled to deploy a film covering on the landfill surface as the loader driven across the surface. Periodically, the bucket, containing a ballast material, is manipulated, allowing ballast material to be disposed on the film to hold the deployed film in place. In a preferred embodiment, the deployer includes a mandrel mounted between two flanges for supporting a roll of film. The deployer is preferably attached to the bucket by chains or wire rope in such a manner so as to allow full operation of bucket while the deployer is attached. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a sprayer to apply a fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: EPI Environmental Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Randall Jeff Kozak