An insert

Abstract

An insert (220) for a downpipe (210) with the downpipe (210) having a first section (212) and a second section (214) being separated from the first section (212). The insert (220) has an open top portion (222), an open bottom portion (224), and at least one side wall (226) in-between having an inner surface (225) and an outer surface (227) opposite to the inner surface (225). The top portion (222) of the insert (220) is connectable to the first section (212) of the downpipe (210) and the bottom portion (224) of the insert (220) is connectable to the second section (214) of the downpipe (210). The insert (220) further comprises an insert hole (221) in the at least one side wall (226) and an adapter (350) associated with the insert (220) at the insert hole (221). The adapter (350) at one end (353) extends into the inner of the insert (220) and being formed so that a hose (316, 319) is connectable to it. The adapter (350) at its other end comprises a spout portion (360), that is operatively configured to be coupled with a hose (318) or with watering components, in particular a hose connector (600) or a tap connector (700).

Description

[0001] AN INSERT

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to an insert that may be connectable to a downpipe between the two separated sections of the downpipe.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] An irrigation system, particularly a rainwater irrigation system, may receive and collect rainwater in a water reservoir that may be fluidly coupled to a downpipe for receiving rainwater therefrom. The rainwater collected in the water reservoir may be supplied for irrigating lawns, gardens, and the like using a rainwater distribution system that may comprise a pump configured to receive and supply water received from the water reservoir; a powerline extending from a power source to deliver power to the pump; a suction hose, and a pressure hose fluidly coupled to the pump for respectively receiving and supplying the water from the water reservoir; and a signal line extending from, or towards a level sensor at least partially housed in the water reservoir.

[0006] However, traditionally there are no additional pipes laid in the vicinity of the irrigation system to accommodate the accessories, in particular, the suction hose, and / or the pressure hose, and / or the powerline, and / or the signal line. As a result, the suction hose, and / or the pressure hose, and / or the powerline, and / or the signal line may remain stranded in open and may be required to be carried and laid over the ground which may affect the aesthetics of the irrigation system, and may also lead to inadvertent accidents, such as electric shocks due to the powerline, to a user of the irrigation system.

[0007] The German utility model DE 200 13 028 U1 describes an irrigation system that connects in a well-known way the gutter at the roof of a house with a water reservoir via downpipe to store the rain water received via the gutter. The rain water reservoir houses a pump to provide pressurized water to a user via a tap. Therefor the powerline to the pump as well as the pressure hose between pump and tap is guided though and covered by the downpipe onto which the tap is directly mounted. This offers a secure installation and does not obstruct the open environment by hoses or power leading cables.

[0008] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] In view of the above, it is an objective of the present invention to solve or at least reduce the drawbacks discussed above. The objective is at least partially achieved by an insert.

[0010] According to an aspect of the present invention, the insert for a downpipe is disclosed with the downpipe having a first section and a second section being separated from the first section, with the insert having an open top portion, an open bottom portion, and at least one side wall in-between having an inner surface and an outer surface opposite to the inner surface. The top portion of the insert is connectable to the first section of the downpipe and the bottom portion of the insert is connectable to the second section of the downpipe. The insert further comprises an insert hole in the at least one side wall and an adapter associated with the insert at the insert hole. The insert is characterized in that the adapter is connected to the insert at the insert hole, and one end extends into the inner of the insert being formed so that a hose is connectable to it. Further, the adapter comprises a spout portion that is operatively configured to be coupled with a hose or with watering components, in particular a hose connector or a tap connector.

[0011] Thus, the present disclosure advantageously provides the insert for the downpipe that is easy to retrofit between the first section and the second section of the already installed downpipe in a toolless manner. The insert and the downpipe may have a cylindrical body respectively. The insert is configured to guide the rainwater received from the first section of the downpipe towards the second section of the downpipe, and / or the insert is configured to collect the rainwater received from the first section of the downpipe and guide a portion of the collected rainwater towards the second section of the downpipe. Further, the insert is configured to improve the utility of the downpipe, by allowing the downpipe to function as a housing for various accessories, in particular, useful for distribution of the rainwater. Further, the insert is advantageously configured to support distribution of the rainwater for various industrial and residential applications, in particular, irrigation. The insert advantageously comprises the adapter associated with the insert. The adapter comprises one end so that the hose is connectable to it and another end that comprises the spout portion. The spout portion is configured to aid the rainwater distribution. The spout portion comprises a threaded portion to threadedly engage with the watering components and aid rainwater distribution.

[0012] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the spout portion may have a shape similar or dissimilar to the shape of the insert hole. Further, the spout portion may have any orientation relative to a plane on which the insert hole may be defined. Further, the spout portion may be integrally or removably formed with the flange portion.

[0013] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the spout portion may at least partially cover the insert hole. Preferably, the spout portion may completely cover the insert hole such that the spout portion may rest upon the insert hole.

[0014] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the spout portion may have an inlet and an outlet for receiving and distributing the rainwater respectively. According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the spout portion may have an inlet and multiple outlets for receiving and distributing the rainwater respectively. According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the inlet of the spout portion may have any orientation relative to the one or more outlets of the spout portion.

[0015] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the insert hole may be more than one insert hole having any size and shape, in particular, a circular shape. Likewise, the adapter may me more than one adapter associated with the insert at the insert hole. Further, the cross-section of the inert hole and the adapter may be similar or different. Further, the adapter may at least partially cover the insert opening.

[0016] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the adapter is removably connected to the insert. The removal association between the adapter and the insert may ease the overhauling of the insert, and / or the adapter, and, or the first section and the second section of the downpipe. The removal association between the adapter and the insert may also allow the association of the insert with the adapter of different types as per application requirements. However, the adapter may be integrally formed with the insert by any means known in the related art, such as, but not limited to, injection molding and welding depending upon material of the insert and the adapter, among other factors.

[0017] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the adapter comprises a flange portion and an elbow portion, with the flange portion being operatively engaged with the inner surface of the at least one side wall when the adapter is associated with the insert and the elbow portion being connected to the flange portion and extends away from in into the inner of the insert. The orientation of the flange portion relative to the elbow portion may be as per the application requirement. Further, the flange portion of the adapter may be configured to allow association or coupling between the at least one side wall of the insert and the adapter. Further, the elbow portion of the adapter may be configured to allow distribution of rainwater, for example, by connection with the hose extending out of a water reservoir fluidly associated with the downpipe for receiving rainwater therefrom.

[0018] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the flange portion may be integrally or removably formed with the elbow portion. The flange portion may be integrally formed with the elbow portion, for example, by welding, or injection molding depending on the material characteristics of the elbow portion and the flange portion, among other factors. Further, the flange may be removably formed with the elbow portion, for example, by use of fasteners, or friction-fit, or snap-fitting, or form-fitting.

[0019] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a coupling plate removably engages with the outer surface of the at least one side wall, preferably being operatively configured to associate the adapter and the insert. The coupling plate may be required when the insert may be removably associated with the adapter. The coupling plate may be me made from a strong, and robust material to improve the longevity of the coupling plate. The coupling plate may be shaped to properly engage with the outer surface of the at least one side wall to ensure secure association between the insert and the adapter. During removable association using the coupling plate, the at least one side wall of the insert may be sandwiched between the flange portion of the adapter and the coupling plate.

[0020] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the removable association between the adapter and the insert may be by virtue of fasteners, in particular, screw fasteners. The coupling plate, the adapter, and the insert may have a plurality of screw holes respectively that may align to allow smooth passage of the screw fasteners therethrough such that the adapter may be removably associated with the insert. According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the removable association between the adapter and the insert may be by snap-fitting, wherein the adapter, in particular, the flange portion of the adapter and the coupling plate may have corresponding elements for snap-fitting.

[0021] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the adapter, in particular, the flange portion may comprise a sealing cord. The flange portion may house the sealing cord to effectively seal the downpipe near the insert opening.

[0022] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a first aperture is formed on the at least one side wall of the insert such that the first aperture is configured to allow passage of a powerline that supplies electricity to a pump to power it up. The downpipe also functions as the housing for the powerline which may generally be laid over the ground and may lead to inadvertent accidents such as electric shocks. The powerline may at least partially be housed in the downpipe using the first aperture of the insert. Further, the interface at the first aperture may be sealed properly using any sealing element known in the related art. Further, the first aperture may be shaped and sized according to the shape and size of the powerline.

[0023] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the first aperture is formed close to the insert hole, in particular both connect to each other. The insert may define a longitudinal axis such that the first aperture is formed below the insert hole along the longitudinal axis. The first aperture may form the extension of the insert hole. The first aperture may be formed above, below, or to the side of the insert hole as per the application requirement. Further, the first aperture may be an extension of the insert hole or may be a separate aperture proximal to the insert hole.

[0024] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the adapter comprises an opening that is configured to allow the powerline therethrough. The opening may be co-axial with the first aperture of the insert to allow easy passage of the powerline therethrough without any distortion.

[0025] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a second aperture is formed on the at least one side wall of the insert, in particular having a connector associated with that allows to connect a signal line to it. The second aperture may be formed on the at least one side wall of the insert such that the second aperture may be operatively configured to allow passage of the signal line therethrough. The signal line may at least partially run through the downpipe via the second aperture to connect with the level sensor. Further, the second aperture may be configured to allow passage of the signal line therethrough via the connector. In other words, the downpipe may function as the housing for the signal line which may generally be laid over the ground and may lead to inadvertent accidents. The signal line may at least partially be housed in the downpipe using the second aperture of the insert. Further, the interface at the second aperture may be sealed properly using any sealing element known in the related art.

[0026] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a cross-section area of the top portion is greater than the cross-section area of the bottom portion, with the top portion being configured as a female connecting member and the bottom portion being configured as a male connecting member for connection with the first section and the second section of the downpipe respectively. The connection between the adapter and the two sections of the downpipe may be executed without using any tool. Further, the connection between the adapter and the two sections of the downpipe may be friction-fit or form-fit or snap-fit. However, the connection between the adapter and the two sections of the downpipe may be executed using fasteners, or by welding. According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the cross-section area of the top portion is equal to the cross-section area of the bottom portion. According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the cross-section area of the top portion is less than the cross-section area of the bottom portion. According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the cross-section area of the top portion and the cross-section area of the bottom portion is greater than, equal to, or less than the cross-section area of the first section of the downpipe and the crosssection area of the second section of the downpipe. According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the cross-section area of the first section is greater than, equal to, or less than the cross-section area of the second section.

[0027] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the insert being connected to the downpipe associated with an irrigation system, wherein the irrigation system, comprising a rainwater collection system comprising a water reservoir fluidly coupled to the downpipe for receiving rainwater therefrom, and a rainwater distribution system comprising a pump having an inlet and an outlet to supply water received from the water reservoir; a powerline extending from a power source to deliver power to the pump; a hose fluidly coupled to the pump for supplying the pumped water; and a signal line extending from, or towards a level sensor at least partially housed in the water reservoir. The insert may receive rainwater from the first section of the downpipe and guide at least a portion of the received rainwater towards the water reservoir via the second section of the downpipe. Further, the rainwater collected in the water reservoir may be distributed for further applications using the rainwater distribution system. Further, the pump of the rainwater distribution system may be housed inside or outside of the water reservoir that may further be housed on-ground or underground.

[0028] The inlet and the outlet according to the present invention may be defined as ports via which the pump may suck or receive water from the water reservoir and via which the pump may deliver pumped water to a consumer respectively.

[0029] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the pump may be an electric water pump. The electric water pump is a commonly used pump for water transport applications. The electric water pump may be operated by an electric power supply received via the powerline carrying electric energy from the power source, such as a battery. However, any other type of pump may be used without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0030] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the pump may be a submersible pump. The submersible pump may have a safe, lightweight, leakproof, corrosion resistant, compact, and portable structure. The submersible pump may require less maintenance. Further, the submersible pump may be a single- stage pump.

[0031] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the downpipe may comprise a holder to guide and hold the hose, and / or the powerline, and / or the signal line. The downpipe may include the holder proximate to the lower end of the downpipe, in particular the second section of the downpipe for proper alignment and hold of the hose, and / or the powerline, and / or the signal line inside of the downpipe for proper functioning of the irrigation system. The holder may prevent entanglement of the hose, and / or the powerline, and / or the signal line inside of the downpipe.

[0032] Before discussing the invention with the help of the drawings the invention will be briefly discussed in general. An insert is provided that is inserted into a downpipe of a roof drainage system. The insert comprises an adapter to accommodate the pressure and suction hoses as well as a power cable (or powerline). Further, the insert has a connector connected to the insert to accommodate a signal line for a level indicator of a water reservoir. Further, the adapter has a seal and is screwed to the insert.

[0033] The insert according to the present invention may allow a user to have access to the rainwater collected in the water reservoir, without needing to open an inspection opening provided with the water reservoir. The insert according to the present invention may allow the hose or water tap to be connected directly to the insert.

[0034] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the adapter may comprise an elbow portion and a flange portion. Further, the flange portion may comprise a spout portion such that the hose or the faucet may be screwed to the adapter. Further, the adapter may have the seal. Further, the adapter may be screwed to other components, in particular, a coupling plate for removable association with the insert.

[0035] Other features and aspects of this invention will be apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings.

[0036] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] The invention will be described in more detail with reference to the enclosed drawings, wherein:

[0038] FIG. 1 exemplarily illustrates a schematic view of an irrigation system such that a pump is housed inside a water reservoir, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] FIG. 2 exemplarily illustrates a schematic view of an irrigation system such that a pump is housed outside a water reservoir, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an insert, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an adapter, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view of an insert and an adapter, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0043] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an insert removably associated with an adapter, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0044] FIG. 7 illustrates another perspective view of an insert removably associated with an adapter, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] The present invention will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example embodiments of the invention incorporating one or more aspects of the present invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. For example, one or more aspects of the present invention may be utilized in other embodiments and even other types of structures and / or methods. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements.

[0047] Certain terminology is used herein for convenience only and is not to be taken as a limitation on the invention. For example, "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "side", "longitudinal", "lateral", "transverse", "upwards", "downwards", "forward", "backward", "sideward", "left", "right", "horizontal", "vertical", "upward", "inner", "outer", "inward", "outward", "top", "bottom", "higher", "above", "below", "central", "middle", "intermediate", "between", "end", "adjacent", "proximate", "near", "distal", "remote", "radial", "circumferential", or the like, merely describe the configuration shown in the Figures. Indeed, the components may be oriented in any direction and the terminology, therefore, should be understood as encompassing such variations unless specified otherwise.

[0048] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of an irrigation system 100. The irrigation system 100 includes a rainwater collection system 200. The rainwater collection system 200 includes a downpipe 210 having a cylindrical shape, or a circular cross-section and defining a longitudinal axis X-X’. The downpipe 210 receives the rainwater for example, from a rooftop of a residential building (not shown) such that the rainwater flows along the direction of the longitudinal axis X-X’ inside the downpipe 210. The term rainwater and the term water are interchangeably used in the disclosure of the present invention.

[0049] Further, the downpipe 210 has a first section 212 and a second section 214 being separated from the first section 212, with the second section 214 providing larger flowing length than the first section 212 for the rainwater flow, with the second section 214 being disposed downstream of the first section 212 in the direction of rainwater flow, and with the second section 214 being disposed below the first section 212 when seen along the longitudinal axis X-X’.

[0050] Further, an insert 220 is provided for the downpipe 210 and is disposed between the first section 212 and the second section 214 of the downpipe 210. The insert 220 has a cylindrical shape, or a circular cross-section. The insert 220 has an open top portion 222, an open bottom portion 224, and at least one side wall 226 in-between the top portion 222 and the bottom portion 224. The bottom portion 224 is disposed downstream of the top portion 222 in the direction of rainwater flow. Further, the bottom portion 224 is disposed below the top portion 222 when seen along the longitudinal axis X-X’.

[0051] Further, a cross-section area of the top portion 222 is greater than the crosssection area of the bottom portion 224, with the top portion 222 being configured as a female connecting member and the bottom portion 224 being configured as a male connecting member for connection with the first section 212 and the second section 214 of the downpipe 210 respectively. In other words, the top portion 222 of the insert 220 is connectable to the first section 212 of the downpipe 210 and the bottom portion 224 of the insert 220 is connectable to the second section 214 of the downpipe 210.

[0052] Further, the rainwater flowing through the first section 212 of the downpipe 210, the insert 220, and the second section 214 of the downpipe 210 is guided towards a water reservoir 230, which also forms the part of the rainwater collection system 200. The water reservoir 230 is fluidly coupled to the downpipe 210 for receiving rainwater therefrom. The downpipe 210, in particular, the second section 214 of the downpipe 210 at least partially extends inside the water reservoir 230 such that the rainwater flows from the downpipe 210 and gets collected in the water reservoir 230.

[0053] Furthermore, the irrigation system 100 includes a rainwater distribution system 300. The rainwater distribution system 300 includes a pump 310 having an inlet 312 and an outlet 314 to supply water received from the water reservoir 230. The pump 310 is an electric water pump. Further, the electric water pump illustrated in FIG. l is a submersible pump. The rainwater distribution system 300 further includes a hose 316, in particular, a pressure hose 316, fluidly coupled to the pump 310 for supplying the pumped water. The hose 316 being the pressure hose 316 is fluidly coupled to the outlet 314 of the pump 310 for supplying the pumped water for further applications. Further, the rainwater distribution system 300 includes a hose 318, in particular, a suction hose 318, fluidly coupled to the inlet 312 of the pump 310 to suck water collected in the water reservoir 230. Further, the rainwater distribution system 300 includes a powerline 320 extending from a power source (not shown) to deliver power, particularly electric power to the pump 310. Furthermore, the rainwater distribution system 300 includes a signal line 330 extending from, or towards a level sensor 340 at least partially housed in the water reservoir 230. The signal line 330 is further coupled to a remote device (not shown) for display of water level in the water reservoir 230. Further, the rainwater distribution system 300 includes an adapter 350, which is removably connected to the insert 220.

[0054] With continuous reference to FIG. 1, for operation of the irrigation system 100, the pump 310 is at least partially submerged in the water reservoir 230 such that at least the inlet 312 of the pump 310 is completely surrounded by the water collected in the water reservoir 230. Further, the powerline 320 to operate the pump 310 extends from the power source to the pump 310 via the insert 220 of the downpipe 210. In other words, the powerline 320 at least partially runs through the second section 214 of the downpipe 210 when inserted into the second section 214 of the downpipe 210 via the insert 220. When the pump 310 receives power via the powerline 320, the pumped water flows to the pressure hose 316 fluidly coupled to the outlet 314 of the pump 310. The pressure hose 316 extends from the pump 310 to the downpipe 210, in particular, the second section 214 of the downpipe 210, and fluidly couples with the adapter 350 for facilitating further applications of the collected water in the water reservoir 230. In other words, the pump 310 is housed inside the water reservoir 230 such that the pressure hose 316 extending from the outlet 314 of the pump 310 and the powerline 320 extending from the power source to deliver power to the pump 310 at least partially runs inside the downpipe 210 and extend into the water reservoir 230. Further, throughout the operation of the irrigation system 100, the level of water in the water reservoir 230 is monitored using the signal line 330 that at least partially runs through the downpipe 210, in particular, the second section 214 of the downpipe 210 via the insert 220 to electrically couple with the level sensor 340 at least partially housed in the water reservoir 230.

[0055] Furthermore, the downpipe 210, in particular, the second section 214 of the downpipe 210, includes a holder 216 to guide and hold the pressure hose 316, and / or the powerline 320, and / or the signal line 330. The holder 216 illustrated in FIG. 1 is located proximate to the lower end of the downpipe 210, or the lower end of the second section 214 of the downpipe 210 that is proximate to the pump 310 at least partially submerged under water collected in the water reservoir 230.

[0056] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic view of the irrigation system 100 such that the pump 310 is housed outside the water reservoir 230. The pump 310 is located in the vicinity of the water reservoir 230. The pump 310 is the electric water pump. The pump 310 draws electrical energy or electrical power via the powerline 320 from the power source (not shown). Further, the pump 310 draws water to be pumped from the water reservoir 230 via the suction hose 318 that is fluidly coupled to the adapter 350, wherein the adapter 350 at its other end is fluidly coupled to a hose 319, or a secondary hose 319, which at least partially runs through the second section 214 of the downpipe 210 and is at least partially submerged in the water reservoir 230. In other words, when the pump 310 operates, due to the suction power of the pump 310, the water in the water reservoir 230 flows within the secondary hose 319 and the water from the secondary hose 319 is transferred to the suction hose 318 via the adapter 350 such that the pump 310 receives the water to be pumped. Further, the water received by the pump 310 is pumped out of the pump 310 via the pressure hose 316 that may further be fluidly coupled with any known water distribution accessory for distribution for carrying out further applications.

[0057] Furthermore, the downpipe 210, in particular, the second section 214 of the downpipe 210, includes the holder 216 to guide and hold the secondary hose 319, and / or the signal line 330. The holder 216 illustrated in FIG. 2 is located proximate to the lower end of the downpipe 210, or the lower end of the second section 214 of the downpipe 210 that is defined as the end of the downpipe 210, or the end of second section 214 of the downpipe 210which is proximate to the water collected in the water reservoir 230.

[0058] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the insert 220. The insert 220 is configured to be connected to the downpipe 210 associated with the irrigation system 100. The insert 220 defines a longitudinal axis Y-Y’ such that when the insert 220 is connected to the downpipe 210 between the first section 212 and the second section 214, the longitudinal axis X-X’ coincides with the longitudinal axis Y-Y’. The insert 220 includes the open top portion 222, the open bottom portion 224, and at least one side wall 226 in-between the top portion 222 and the bottom portion 224. The at least one side wall 226 is one side wall 226 having an inner surface 225 and an outer surface 227 opposite to the inner surface 225. Further, the cross-section area of the top portion 222 is greater than the cross-section area of the bottom portion 224. The top portion 222 is configured as the female connecting member and the bottom portion 224 is configured as the male connecting member for connection with the first section 212 and the second section 214 of the downpipe 210 respectively. In other words, the top portion 222 of the insert 220 is connectable to the first section 212 of the downpipe 210 and the bottom portion 224 of the insert 220 is connectable to the second section 214 of the downpipe 210.

[0059] The insert 220 further includes an insert hole 221 in the at least one side wall 226. The insert hole 221 is substantially a circular hole. The insert hole 221 extends to form a first aperture 223 having a substantially circular shape with the insert hole 221 being larger in size than the first aperture 223. In other words, the insert 220 defines the longitudinal axis Y-Y’ such that the first aperture 223 is formed below the insert hole 221 along the longitudinal axis Y-Y’ on the at least one side wall 226 of the insert 220, and the first aperture 223 forms the extension of the insert hole 221. In other words, the first aperture 223 is formed close to the insert hole 221, in particular both connect to each other. Further, the first aperture 223 is operatively configured to allow passage of the powerline 320 therethrough such that the powerline at least partially runs through the downpipe 210, in particular the second section 214, via the first aperture 223 and supplies electricity to the pump 310 to power it up.

[0060] Further, a second aperture 229 is formed on the at least one side wall 226 of the insert 220 such that the second aperture 229 is substantially a circular aperture and is operatively configured to allow passage of the signal line 330 therethrough such that the signal line 330 at least partially runs through the downpipe 210, in particular the second section 214, via the second aperture 229 to connect with the level sensor 340. The second aperture 229 is disposed proximal to the insert hole 221 and the first aperture 223, with the size of the second aperture 229 being smaller than the insert hole 221 and substantially equal to the first aperture 223. Further, during the non-use of the first aperture 223 and the second aperture 229, the first aperture 223 and the second aperture 229 are respectively plugged by a plugging member (not shown) respectively.

[0061] Further, the insert 220 includes a plurality of protruding apertures 228, in particular, the four protruding apertures 228, which surround the insert hole 221 in a manner such they form a square-shaped pattern around the insert hole 221. Each of the plurality of protruding apertures 228 is configured allow the association between the insert 220 and the adapter 350 in a removable manner.

[0062] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the adapter 350. The adapter 350 includes ends 351, 353 such that the adapter 350 at one of its ends 351extends into the insert 220 from the inner surface 225 of the insert 220 at the insert hole 221, and at its other end 353 is formed so that the hose 316, 319 is connectable to it. In other words, the adapter 350 is connected to the insert 220 at the insert hole 221, and one end 353 extends into the inner of the insert 220 being formed so that the hose 316, 319 is connectable to it. The adapter 350 is a two-part adapter 350 and includes a flange portion 352 and an elbow portion 354, with the flange portion 352 being substantially perpendicular to the elbow portion 354. The flange portion 352 is integrally or removably formed with the elbow portion 354. The elbow portion 354 is connected to the flange portion 352 and extends away from in into the inner of the insert 220. Further, the flange portion 352 is configured to allow removal association between the insert 220 and the adapter 350. Further, the elbow portion 354 is configured to fluidly couple with the hose 316, 319 when the pump 310 is housed inside the water reservoir 230, or when the pump 310 is housed outside the water reservoir 230 respectively.

[0063] Further, the flange portion 352 is substantially an oval-shaped portion being operatively engaged with the inner surface 225 of the at least one side wall 226 of the insert 220, when the adapter 350 is associated with the insert 220. Further, the flange portion 352 includes a protruded portion 356 that substantially has an ovalshape structure with the boundary wall of the protruded portion 356 being at least marginally inside the boundary wall of the flange portion 352. The substantially oval shaped space thus formed between the boundary wall of the protruded portion 356 and the boundary wall of the flange portion 352 houses a sealing cord 358 such that the sealing cord 358 leans against the boundary wall of the protruded portion 356 during assembly. In other words, the adapter 350, in particular, the flange portion 352 includes the sealing cord 358.

[0064] Further, the adapter 350, in particular, the flange portion 352 includes a spout portion 360 that is substantially surrounded by the protruded portion 356. The spout portion 360 is operatively configured to allow distribution of water collected in the water reservoir 230, when the adapter 350 is removably associated with the insert 220. The spout portion 360 defines an inlet towards the elbow portion 354 and an outlet 362 opposite to the inlet and extending away from the protruded portion 356. The inlet is configured to receive water from the elbow portion 354 whereas the outlet 362 is configured to expel received water, with the plane of the inlet being substantially parallel to the plane of the outlet 362. The spout portion 360 includes threads 364 configured to allow removable coupling or threaded coupling with a watering component. The threads 364 have a spiral configuration.

[0065] Further, the flange portion 352 includes a substantially U-shaped opening 366 disposed below the spout portion 360. The opening 366 is configured to allow the passage of the powerline 320 towards the second section 214 of the downpipe 210, when the adapter 350 is removably associated with the insert 220. In other words, the adapter 350 includes the opening 366 that is configured to allow the powerline 320 therethrough. In other words, when the pump 310 is housed in the water reservoir 230, the powerline 320 connecting the pump 310 passes through the opening 366 to reach the pump 310.

[0066] Further, the flange portion 352 includes a plurality of apertures 368, in particular, the four apertures 368, which surround the spout portion 360 in a manner such they form a square-shaped pattern around the spout portion 360. Each of the plurality of apertures 368 is configured to allow the association between the insert 220 and the adapter 350 in a removable manner. Furthermore, the flange portion includes a protruding aperture 370 proximal to the opening 366. The protruding aperture 370 is configured to allow the passage of the signal line 330 therethrough such that the signal line 330 at least partially runs through the downpipe 210, in particular the second section 214 to connect with the level sensor 340 when the adapter 350 is removably associated with the insert 220. Furthermore, a connector 372 is removably coupled with the protruding aperture 370 such that the connector 372 is configured to allow secure attaching of the signal line 330 such that the signal line 330 at least partially runs through the downpipe 210, in particular the second section 214 to connect with the level sensor 340 when the adapter 350 is removably associated with the insert 220.

[0067] FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view of the insert 220 and the adapter 350. The insert 220 includes the insert hole 221 in the at least one side wall 226 and the adapter 350 associated with the insert 220 at the insert hole 221. The adapter 350 is removably associated with the insert 220 using a coupling plate 400. In other words, the coupling plate 400 is operatively configured to removably associate the adapter 350 and the insert 220. The coupling plate 400 is configured to be removably engaged with the outer surface 227 of the at least one side wall 226, preferably being operatively configured to associate the adapter 350 and the insert 220.

[0068] Further, the coupling plate 400 has a substantially oval shaped structure having a primary hole 402 similar to the insert hole 221 and a secondary hole 404 similar to the first aperture 223. The primary hole 402 extends to form the secondary hole 404 having a substantially circular shape with the primary hole 402 being larger in size than the secondary hole 404. The secondary hole 404 is formed below the primary hole 402. Further, the secondary hole 404 is operatively configured to allow passage of the powerline 320 therethrough such that the powerline at least partially runs through the downpipe 210, in particular the second section 214, via the secondary hole 404.

[0069] Further, a tertiary hole 406 is formed in the coupling plate 400 such that the tertiary hole 406 is substantially a circular aperture and is operatively configured to allow passage of the signal line 330 therethrough such that the signal line 330 at least partially runs through the downpipe 210, in particular the second section 214, via the tertiary hole 406 to connect with the level sensor 340. The tertiary hole 406 is disposed proximal to the primary hole 402 and the secondary hole 404, with the size of the tertiary hole 406 being smaller than the primary hole 402 and substantially equal to the secondary hole 404. Further, the coupling plate 400 includes a plurality of protruding apertures 408, in particular, the four apertures 408, which surround the primary hole 402 in a manner such they form a squareshaped pattern around the primary hole 402. Each of the plurality of apertures 408 is configured to allow the association between the insert 220 and the adapter 350 in a removable manner.

[0070] With continuous reference to FIG. 5, during removable association of the insert 220 with the adapter 350 using the coupling plate 400, the adapter 350 is inserted into the insert 220 such that the adapter 350 at one of its ends 351 extends into the insert 220 from the inner surface 225 of the insert 220 at the insert hole 221, and at its other end 353 is formed so that the hose 316, 319 is connectable to it. Further, during removable association of the insert 220 with the adapter 350 using the coupling plate 400, the adapter 350 is inserted into the insert 220 such that the flange portion 352 is operatively engaged with the inner surface 225 of the at least one side wall 226 of the insert 220 and the spout portion 360 extends out of the insert hole 221. In other words, the spout portion 360 extends out of the insert 220 from the insert hole 221 when the adapter 350 is associated with the insert 220. Further, when the adapter 350 is inserted into the insert 220, the plurality of apertures 368 of the adapter 350 align with the plurality of protruding apertures 228 of the insert 220. Further, when the adapter 350 is inserted into the insert 220, the opening 366 of the adapter 350 aligns with the first aperture 223 of the insert 220. Furthermore, when the adapter 350 is inserted into the insert 220, the protruding aperture 370 of the adapter 350 aligns with the second aperture 229 of the insert 220. In other words, the second aperture 229, in particular has the connector 370 associated with it that allows to connect the signal line 330 to it.

[0071] Further, during removable association of the insert 220 with the adapter 350 using the coupling plate 400, after the adapter 350 is inserted into the insert 220, the coupling plate 400 is made to removably engage with the outer surface 227 of the at least one side wall 226 of the insert 220 such that the primary hole 402 of the coupling plate 400 aligns with the insert hole 221 of the insert 220; the secondary hole 404 aligns with the opening 366 of the adapter 350 and the first aperture 223 of the insert 220; the tertiary hole 406 of the coupling plate 400 aligns with the protruding aperture 370 of the adapter 350 and the second aperture 229 of the insert 220; and the plurality of protruding apertures 408 of the coupling plate 400 aligns with the plurality of apertures 368 of the adapter 350 and the plurality of protruding apertures 228 of the insert 220.

[0072] Further, upon proper alignment of the adapter 350 and the coupling plate 400 relative to the insert 220, the removable association between the adapter 350 and the insert 220 is carried out by virtue of fasteners 500, in particular, screw fasteners 500. The screw fasteners 500 pass through the plurality of protruding apertures 408 of the coupling plate 400, the plurality of protruding apertures 228 of the insert 220, and the plurality of apertures 368 of the adapter 350 to secure the association between the adapter 350 and the insert 220.

[0073] Further, the connector 372 is engaged with each of the tertiary hole 406 of the coupling plate 400, the protruding aperture 370 of the adapter 350 and the second aperture 229 of the insert 220 such that the signal line 330 is passed through via the connector 372. In other words, the protruding aperture 370 is formed on the adapter 350, the second aperture 229 is formed on the at least one side wall 226 of the insert 220, and the tertiary hole 406 is formed on the coupling plate 400 such that the protruding aperture 370, the second aperture 229, and the tertiary hole 406 is operatively configured to allow passage of the signal line 330 therethrough. In other words, the signal line 330 at least partially runs through the downpipe 210 via the protruding aperture 370, the second aperture 229, and the tertiary hole 406 to connect with the level sensor 340. In other words, the protruding aperture 370, the second aperture 229, and the tertiary hole 406 is configured to allow passage of the signal line 330 therethrough via the connector 372. Furthermore, the powerline 320 is inserted into the downpipe 210 via the secondary hole 404, the opening 366, and the first aperture 223 to power the pump 310, when the pump 310 is housed in the water reservoir 230.

[0074] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the insert 220 removably associated with the adapter 350. The adapter 350 includes the flange portion 352 such that the flange portion 352 includes the spout portion 360. The spout portion 360 is operatively configured to be coupled with the hose 318 or with the watering components, in particular, a hose connector 600 for rainwater distribution for further applications. The spout portion 360 receives rainwater from the elbow portion 354 that further receives rainwater from the water reservoir 230 via the hose 316 when the pump 310 is housed inside the water reservoir 230, or via the hose 319 when the pump 310 is housed outside the water reservoir 230.

[0075] FIG. 7 illustrates another perspective view of the insert 220 removably associated with the adapter 350. The adapter 350 includes the flange portion 352 such that the flange portion 352 includes the spout portion 360. The spout portion 360 is operatively configured to be coupled with the hose 318 or with the watering components, in particular, a tap connector 700 for rainwater distribution for further applications such that the rap connector 700 is further fluidly coupled to a tap 702. The spout portion 360 receives rainwater from the elbow portion 354 that further receives rainwater from the water reservoir 230 via the hose 316 when the pump 310 is housed inside the water reservoir 230, or via the hose 319 when the pump 310 is housed outside the water reservoir 230.

[0076] In the drawings and specification, there have been disclosed exemplary embodiments and examples of the invention and, although specific terms are employed, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for the purpose of limitation of the scope of the invention being set forth in the following claims.

[0077] LIST OF ELEMENTS

[0078] 100 Irrigation System

[0079] 200 Rainwater Collection System

[0080] 210 Downpipe

[0081] 212 First Section

[0082] 214 Second Section

[0083] 216 Holder

[0084] 220 Insert

[0085] 221 Insert Hole

[0086] 222 Top Portion

[0087] 223 First Aperture

[0088] 224 Bottom Portion

[0089] 225 Inner Surface

[0090] 226 Side Wall

[0091] 227 Outer Surface

[0092] 228 Protruding Apertures

[0093] 229 Second Aperture

[0094] 230 Water Reservoir

[0095] 300 Rainwater Distribution System

[0096] 310 Pump

[0097] 312 Inlet

[0098] 314 Outlet

[0099] 316 Hose, Pressure Hose

[0100] 318 Hose, Suction Hose

[0101] 319 Hose, Secondary Hose

[0102] 320 Powerline

[0103] 330 Signal Line

[0104] 340 Level Sensor

[0105] 350 Adapter

[0106] 351 End

[0107] 352 Flange Portion

[0108] 353 End 54 Elbow Portion 56 Protruded Portion 58 Sealing Cord 60 Spout Portion 62 Outlet 64 Threads 66 Opening

[0109] 368 Apertures

[0110] 370 Protruding Aperture

[0111] 372 Connector

[0112] 400 Coupling Plate

[0113] 402 Primary Hole

[0114] 404 Secondary Hole

[0115] 406 Tertiary Hole

[0116] 408 Protruding Apertures

[0117] 500 Fasteners, Screw Fasteners

[0118] 600 Hose Connector

[0119] 700 Tap Connector

[0120] 702 Tap

[0121] X-X’ Longitudinal Axis

[0122] Y-Y’ Longitudinal Axis

Claims

CLAIMS1. An insert (220) for a downpipe (210) with the downpipe (210) having a first section (212) and a second section (214) being separated from the first section (212), with the insert (220) having an open top portion (222), an open bottom portion (224), and at least one side wall (226) in-between having an inner surface (225) and an outer surface (227) opposite to the inner surface (225), wherein the top portion (222) of the insert (220) is connectable to the first section (212) of the downpipe (210) and the bottom portion (224) of the insert (220) is connectable to the second section (214) of the downpipe (210), and characterized in that: the insert (220) further comprising an insert hole (221) in the at least one side wall (226) and an adapter (350) associated with the insert (220) at the insert hole (221), the adapter (350) at one end (353) extends into the inner of the insert (220) being formed so that a hose (316, 319) is connectable to it, wherein the adapter (350) at its other end comprises a spout portion (360), that is operatively configured to be coupled with a hose (318) or with watering components, in particular a hose connector (600) or a tap connector (700).

2. The insert (220) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adapter (350) is removably connected to the insert (220).

3. The insert (220) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adapter (350) comprises a flange portion (352) and an elbow portion (354), with the flange portion (352) beingoperatively engaged with the inner surface (225) of the at least one side wall (226) of the insert (220) when the adapter (350) is associated with the insert (220) and the elbow portion (354) being connected to the flange portion (352) and extends away from in into the inner of the insert (220).

4. The insert (220) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a coupling plate (400) removably engages with the outer surface (227) of the at least one side wall (226), preferably being operatively configured to associate the adapter (350) and the insert (220).

5. The insert (220) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a first aperture (223) is formed on the at least one side wall (226) of the insert (220) such that the first aperture (223) is configured to allow passage of a powerline (320) that supplies electricity to a pump to power it up.

6. The insert (220) according to claim 5, wherein first aperture (223) is formed close to the insert hole (221), in particular both connect to each other.

7. The insert (220) according to claim 6, wherein the adapter (350) comprises an opening (366) that is configured to allow the powerline (320) therethrough.

8. The insert (220) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a second aperture (229) is formed on the at least one side wall (226) of the insert (220), in particular having a connector (372) associated with that allows to connect a signal line (330) to it.

9. The insert (220) according to any one of the preceding claims,wherein a cross-section area of the top portion (222) is greater than the cross-section area of the bottom portion (224), with the top portion (222) being configured as a female connecting member and the bottom portion (224) being configured as a male connecting member for connection with the first section (212) and the second section (214) of the downpipe (210) respectively.

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