Apparatus and methods for the treatment, recirculation, storage and retention of water

Abstract

Apparatus and a method for water treatment is provided with a closed-loop quality control system optionally using an AI-powered diagnostic system in situ. The preferred embodiments provide a combined intelligent water retention and storage system most preferably comprising a flexible tank, using non-watertight tubes with waterproof membrane reinforced by geotextile. Another aspect adds integrating greywater reuse, intelligent irrigation, and automated management by ultrasonic sensors, controlled by a SAS platform with real-time weather forecasting. In another aspect, there is provided a combined water retention and storage system allowing a single tank to perform both retention and storage functions.

Description

[0001] APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR THE TREATMENT, RECIRCULATION, STORAGE AND RETENTION OF WATER

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to apparatus and a method for water treatment, in the preferred embodiments being provided with a closed-loop quality control system optionally using an Al-powered diagnostic system in situ.

[0004] The present invention also relates in preferred embodiments to a combined intelligent water retention and storage system most preferably comprising a flexible tank, using non-watertight tubes with waterproof membrane reinforced by geotextile. Another aspect adds integrating greywater reuse, intelligent irrigation, and automated management by ultrasonic sensors, controlled by a SAS platform with real-time weather forecasting.

[0005] In another aspect, the invention provides a combined water retention and storage system allowing a single tank to perform both retention and storage functions.

[0006] Background of the Invention

[0007] Water storage and management, whether for rainwater, greywater, or other fluids, is a growing global concern. Traditionally, grey water may be stored in a retention system, such as concrete or plastic tanks, often for transfer to a central waste water processing facility such as a water treatment plant. However, such grey water storage facilities are often expensive, bulky and difficult to install. Moreover, new regulations increasingly require on-site water management solutions, particularly in urban environments. These regulations add further complexity and cost to the storage and local processing of grey water.

[0008] Particularly with the onset of the effects of global warming and urbanization, there is also a growing need for better management of excess rainwaters. There is a growing need to develop sustainable, economical and flexible solutions to the storage and management of water, particularly rain water, greywater and other contaminated water and other fluids.

[0009] Summary of the Present Invention

[0010] In one aspect, the present invention seeks to provide apparatus and a method for water treatment that can address the shortcomings of current systems for storing and treating water. In the preferred embodiments the apparatus is provided with a closed-loop quality control system, optionally using an Al-powered diagnostic system in situ.

[0011] The preferred embodiments disclosed herein enable the reuse of greywater locally without going through the public water treatment network. They are preferably a fully autonomous system.

[0012] The greywater may come from various sources depending on the sites and regions, such as rainfall, human use, rivers, seas, wells, or any type of source with low water contamination, suitable for treatment by the apparatus and method disclosed herein.

[0013] The preferred embodiments are able to eliminate water pollution, make habitations on the ground or on water self-sufficient in water resources, and can guarantee the quality of regenerated water systematically and daily, preferably controlled by the intelligent and automatic process.

[0014] The preferred embodiments disclosed herein are particularly suited for residential and collective housing, hotels, lodges, guesthouses, campsites, vacation centres, offices, places of human activity, boats and all types of collective or residential accommodations that generate and / or capture greywater.

[0015] The regenerated water can be reused by living beings, humans, animals, plants, and so on, for all types of uses including but not exclusively for drinking.

[0016] The preferred practical solution disclosed herein enables the regeneration of a volume of up to 75 cubic metres per hour. According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided water treatment apparatus for treating water for the purposes of recirculation to a location of use, comprising: a normally closed circuit water recirculation pathway for treating water obtained from at least one location and for returning treated water to the same location; a filtration station located within the water recirculation pathway; a temporary water storage station located downstream of the filtration station; a diagnostic unit coupled to the temporary water storage facility and configured to determine the quality of water in the temporary water storage station; and a control system configured to return to the location water from the temporary water storage facility when it is determined the quality of the water in the temporary storage station meets at least a minimum quality threshold.

[0017] Preferably, the control system is configured to cause water in the temporary storage station to be returned to the filtration station when it is determined that the water quality does not meet at least the minimum quality threshold.

[0018] The apparatus may comprise a fluidic valve disposed upstream of the filtration station and a conduit between the temporary water storage station and the fluidic valve, wherein the control system is configured to operate the fluidic valve to close off water flow from the location to the filtration station and permit water flow from the temporary water storage facility for a further round of filtration.

[0019] Practical embodiments may include a chlorination station configured to add chlorine to the treated water upon diagnosis of failure of the treated water to meet at least the minimum quality threshold. Preferably, the processing system is configured to cause the chlorination station to operate upon the detection of retreated water failing to meet at least the minimum quality threshold.

[0020] The filtration stage may include at least one biological filter, preferably a lithothamnion filter. The filtration station comprises a particulate disk filter and / or a membrane and cyclonic filter. Preferably, the minimum water quality threshold is a drinkable water threshold.

[0021] In the preferred embodiments, the processing system is an adaptive control unit or an artificial intelligence configured to provide variable control dependent upon learning from at least the history of water treatment by the apparatus.

[0022] Advantageously, the processing system may be configured to learn from neighbouring water treatment apparatus.

[0023] Preferably, the apparatus is configured to treat all greywaters, rainwater, shower water, bath water, sink water, washing machine water, river water, sea water, wells water, water from water desalination units, water with low contamination.

[0024] In practical embodiments, there may be provided a user interface unit configured to provide information to a user on the condition of treated water, and a warning in the event that one or more fi Itrations cycles fail to bring the water to at least the minimum quality threshold.

[0025] In preferred embodiments, the processing system is configured to close off resupply of treated water in the event treated water is determined not to meet the minimum quality threshold and to restore mains water supply to the location.

[0026] The processing system may be configured to carry out a chlorine chemical treatment cycle throughout the filtration station in the event that chlorination treatment of water is determined to have been ineffective.

[0027] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of treating water for the purposes of recirculation to a location of use, comprising the steps of: providing a normally closed circuit water recirculation pathway for treating water obtained from at least one location and for returning treated water to the same location; providing filtration of water within the water recirculation pathway; providing temporary water storage downstream of the filtration station; providing diagnosis of water temporarily stored and determining the quality of water temporarily stored; and returning water to the location water from temporary storage when it is determined the quality of the water in temporary storage meets at least a minimum quality threshold.

[0028] Preferably, the method includes the step of returning water to the filtration station when it is determined that the water quality does not meet at least the minimum quality threshold.

[0029] The method advantageously comprises closing off water flow from the location and permitting water flow from temporary storage for a further round of filtration.

[0030] It may include the step of adding chlorine to the treated water upon diagnosis of failure of the treated water to meet at least the minimum quality threshold. Chlorination is optionally carried out upon the detection of retreated water failing to meet at least the minimum quality threshold.

[0031] Preferably, the filtration includes at least one biological filter, optionally through a lithothamnion filter. Filtration may include filtration through a particulate disk filter and / or through a membrane and cyclonic filter.

[0032] Preferably, the minimum water quality threshold is a drinkable water threshold.

[0033] The method may include providing variable control dependent upon learning from at least the history of water treatment.

[0034] There may be included the step of learning from neighbouring water treatment apparatus.

[0035] The method is preferably configured to treat all greywaters, rainwater, shower water, bath water, sink water, washing machine water, river water, sea water, wells water, water from water desalination units, water from any type of source with low water contamination.

[0036] There may be included the step of providing information to a user on the condition of treated water, and providing a warning in the event that one or more filtrations cycles fail to bring the water to at least the minimum quality threshold.

[0037] Advantageously, the method includes closing off resupply of treated water in the event treated water is determined not to meet the minimum quality threshold and restoring mains water supply to the location. There may be provided the step of carrying out a chlorine chemical treatment cycle throughout the filtration station in the event that chlorination treatment of water is determined to have been ineffective.

[0038] In another aspect, there is proposed in a preferred embodiment a combined system allowing a single tank to perform both retention and storage functions, thereby achieving cost savings in terms of installation, land use, and resources. This flexible tank, preferably made of a waterproof membrane reinforced by a geotextile, incorporates non-watertight tubes that provide structural rigidity and enable uniform pressure distribution. The entire system is managed by intelligent control, taking into account real-time weather forecasts using Al and ultrasonic sensors, optimizing water management based on climatic conditions and avoiding waste.

[0039] According to this aspect of the present invention, there is provided apparatus for retaining and storing water, comprising: a common water storage tank; a conduit coupled to the common water tank from a grey water collection facility of an establishment; a conduit coupled to the common water tank from a rain water collection facility of an establishment; a control system configured to determine expected rainfall at the establishment; wherein the control system is configured to provide for grey water treatment for the purposes of reuse of the grey water; wherein the control system is configured to provide for retention of rain water in the common tank when it is determined that expected rainwater will exceed a threshold.

[0040] Preferably, the control system is configured to stop treatment of grey water in the determination of expected rainfall exceeding the threshold.

[0041] The control system may be configured to remove water from the common storage tank in dependence upon the determined expected rainfall.

[0042] Advantageously, the control system is configured to remove water from the common storage tank by causing utilization of treated grey water by the establishment and / or by draining treated waste water into a sewer or treated water mains system.

[0043] In preferred embodiments, the common tank is made of a waterproof membrane reinforced by a geotextile.

[0044] The tank may incorporate non-watertight tubes providing structural rigidity and enabling uniform pressure distribution.

[0045] Advantageously, the apparatus comprises a control system configured to take into account real-time weather forecasts for optimizing water management based on climatic conditions.

[0046] There may be provided one or more sensors configured to measure water levels in real-time within the storage tank.

[0047] Preferably, the control system is configured to manage available storage space for rainwater retention and storage, including optionally on the basis of weather forecasts to release space by initiating irrigation before expected rainfalls.

[0048] The apparatus may comprise a variable-speed pump configured to serve both irrigation and filtration purposes.

[0049] The control system may be configured to monitor clogging levels through volumetric measurement sensors, and to trigger automatic rinsing to prevent obstructions.

[0050] There may be provided a drain system configured to manage excess water during rainfall. The drain system preferably includes adjustable valves and valve control valve system configured to adjust flow rates.

[0051] There is preferably provided a biological water filtration system configured to filter greywater.

[0052] The apparatus may comprise a water treatment loop configured to ensure the quality of stored water, and to prevent stagnation or degradation.

[0053] There may be provided an irrigation unit configured to anticipate irrigation needs by using stored water for irrigation according to climatic conditions and actual plant requirements.

[0054] Preferably, one or more sensors are disposed to measure at least one of and preferably all of: soil moisture, temperature, light, and nutrient levels. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of retaining and storing water, comprising: providing a common water storage tank with a first conduit coupled to a grey water collection facility of an establishment and a second conduit coupled to a rain water collection facility of the establishment; providing for grey water treatment for the purposes of reuse of the grey water; determining expected rainfall at the establishment; wherein when it is determined that expected rainwater will exceed a threshold the method includes the step of retaining rain water in the common tank.

[0055] The method may include the step of stopping treatment of grey water on the determination of expected rainfall exceeding the threshold and / or removing water from the common storage tank in dependence upon the determined expected rainfall. Preferably, the method includes the step of removing water from the common storage tank by causing utilization of treated grey water by the establishment and / or by draining treated waste water into a sewer or treated water mains system.

[0056] The common tank may be made of a waterproof membrane reinforced by a geotextile.

[0057] Preferably, the tank incorporates non-watertight tubes providing structural rigidity and enabling uniform pressure distribution.

[0058] There may be provided the step of taking into account real-time weather forecasts for optimizing water management based on climatic conditions.

[0059] The method may include the step of measuring water levels in real-time within the storage tank.

[0060] Preferred embodiments include the step of managing available storage space for rainwater retention and storage, including optionally on the basis of weather forecasts to release space by initiating irrigation before expected rainfalls.

[0061] There may be provided the step of operating a variable-speed pump to serve both irrigation and filtration purposes. Preferably, the method includes the step of monitoring clogging levels through volumetric measurement sensors, and triggering automatic rinsing to prevent obstructions.

[0062] The method preferably includes the step of managing excess water during rainfall, for example by operating adjustable valves to adjust flow rates.

[0063] Advantageously, the method includes the step of providing biological water filtration of grey water.

[0064] There may be included the step of providing a water treatment loop configured to ensure the quality of stored water, and preventing stagnation or degradation.

[0065] Preferably, the method includes the step of anticipating irrigation needs by using stored water for irrigation according to climatic conditions and actual plant requirements. For this purpose, the method may include the step of measuring at least one of and preferably all of: soil moisture, temperature, light, and nutrient levels.

[0066] In another aspect, embodiments of the invention introduce a water storage system using non-watertight tubes to reinforce a waterproof membrane (EPDM or other materials). This allows for the creation of buried tanks, either standalone or integrated with existing structures (such as swimming pools or buildings), while being easy to install, cost-effective, and durable. Furthermore, the solution also addresses greywater reuse, smart irrigation, and environmental conservation.

[0067] In the preferred embodiments, this aspect of the invention proposes a modular water storage and retention system using non-sealed tubes integrated into a waterproof membrane reinforced by geotextile. This system is coupled with intelligent and automatic management of water levels between storage and retention, relying on real-time weather forecasts to optimize resource management and prevent flooding during heavy rains.

[0068] According to this aspect of the present invention, there is provided a water retention and treatment assembly comprising: a water storage tank formed of a plurality of water retention tubes, which tubes are flu idical ly connected to one another; a water impermeable membrane configured to surround the tubes; a geotextile casing; wherein the assembly is configured to be buried below ground.

[0069] Preferably, the water storage tank is disposed around a perimeter of a swimming pool.

[0070] The water retention tubes may be made of a non-watertight tubes material.

[0071] There may be provided a conduit configured to collect greywater from an establishment.

[0072] Advantageously, the apparatus comprises an irrigation system configured to obtain irrigation water from the water storage tank.

[0073] There is preferably provided an control system operable to control input and output of water to the water tank. The control system may be configured to determine expected rainfall and to control water collection in the water tank in the basis of determined rainfall.

[0074] The tubes may be made of PVC or polyethylene; they may have a diameter of around 60 cm and a height of around 1.5 metres.

[0075] The tubes may be positioned vertically or horizontally.

[0076] Preferably, the tubes are arranged side by side and may be anchored to each other.

[0077] The apparatus preferably comprises automatic control of water levels using ultrasonic or other suitable sensors configured to detect real-time water levels in the tanks.

[0078] There may be provided a SAS platform for real-time monitoring of water levels, clogging rates and alert management. Preferably, the apparatus includes an alert system configured to generate an alert related to actual or predicted water levels within the water tank.

[0079] It may include a drain and a regulating valve.

[0080] Preferably, the apparatus includes a biological filtration system.

[0081] All the embodiments and aspects of the invention disclosed herein are preferably configured to be able to address the following needs and provide the following advantages: i) address the problems of excessive rainwater, resulting in flooding of networks, gardens and roads, for example, by providing apparatus and a method of retaining excessive rainwater, including filtering this for later consumption, as secondary water for irrigation, toilets and so on, and / or as primary water, such as for drinking, filling swimming pools and so on. Recovered rainwater for home use can be for toilet flushing and outdoor cleaning, for replenishing swimming pools, returning groundwater for good ground quality management, and preferably such that all waters emanating from the residential facility are reused. ii) lack of water for soils and gardens, arid soil damaged by runoff during heavy rain and so on, by providing effective water management, including retention and storage of used water and excessive rainwater, pre-watering of soil by irrigation when it is predicted that a heavy rain event is imminent; iii) addressing the effect of bans on filling of swimming pools and watering gardens in summer due to mains water shortages, by trapping, that is retaining, excessive water and preventing irrecoverable loss as groundwater.

[0082] In the preferred embodiments, captured water, including rainwater, can be recycled a plurality of times for reuse by the establishment, leading to the possibility of a self-sufficient water supply to the establishment.

[0083] All the embodiments and aspects of the invention are suitable for: i) residential purposes such as homes, where there is a growing need for water autonomy, preserving water and for gardens and pools; ii) hotels and the like, which experience high water consumption for guests, gardens and facilities; iii) relocations in nature, where there is a growing demand for off-grid and remote environments; iv) regulatory needs, for water authorities, health agencies, ONS control, requirements for water retention, and so on; v) and also for seeking to mitigate the effects of climate change.

[0084] In summary, the embodiments and aspects of the invention disclosed herein can provide for water collection and retention; water storage; water regeneration into pure water, in a manner which can be controlled and guaranteed; water re-use in the entire home; phytoremediation ONS; and preferably in which virtually no water is unintentionally lost. Other aspects of the invention and advantages of the teachings herein will become apparent to the skilled person from the detailed description of embodiments of the invention that follows.

[0085] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0086] Embodiments of the present invention are described below, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0087] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of water treatment system according to the teachings herein;

[0088] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment the system;

[0089] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of part of the installation of Figure 2 located at a basin of the apparatus;

[0090] Figure 4 is a table of the expected operating cycles of the system of Figure 2;

[0091] Figures 5 to 15 are flow charts of the operation of the system of Figure 2;

[0092] Figure 16 is a plan view of an embodiment of installation of a retention basin with tubing in a membrane around a swimming pool.

[0093] Figure 17 is a detailed view of the installation of Figure 16 non-watertight tubes in a waterproof membrane, side by side;

[0094] Figures 18 and 19 are cross-sectional views of the installation of Figures 16 and 17 demonstrating a complete water retention system, with geotextile protection, waterproof membrane, and vertical tube positioning; and

[0095] Figure 20 depicts a use case example of the integration of water regeneration for residential or industrial water storage with flow regulation and greywater reuse.

[0096] Description of the Preferred Embodiments

[0097] Current water treatment techniques include collective and non-local treatment solutions. They mix black and grey water at the source, through sewage systems, sometimes including rainwater. They are costly and polluting, both in terms of installation and maintenance. These are the so-called public sewage treatment station solutions. They additionally suffer the drawback of failing to optimize water regeneration by not selectively treating greywater. Conversely, the apparatus and method disclosed herein enable users to bypass conventional sewage systems to optimize water treatment, thereby being independent of inefficient communal treatment systems, and can also be configured to be autonomous.

[0098] Other systems provide in situ and individualized treatment solutions. However, these systems do not necessarily guarantee treatment in volume of all greywaters in a habitat and typically do not treat rainwater. These systems tend to be limited at minimum to shower and bath water and at maximum to sinks and washing machines.

[0099] The apparatus and method taught herein in the first aspect preferably allow for ensuring through a treatment loop comprising filtrations, treatments, and controls, preferably driven by artificial intelligence-powered diagnostics, in particular but not exclusively one or more of, and preferably all of: a) treatment in volume of all greywaters, rainwater, shower water, bath water, sink water, washing machine water, river water, sea water, wells water, water from water desalination units, all types of sources with low water contamination; b) the ability to avoid clogging particle filters and avoid unnecessary rinsing and water consumption, by means of a plurality of filtration stages, including upstream particulate disks and bacterial and biological filters that are able to degrade trapped particles preferably by up to 98% or more; c) control of microbial and chemical water quality through a fluidic analysis process preferably using artificial intelligence or an adaptive control unit, preferably verifying regulatory compliance such as of the Regional Health Agency (ARS) and other water regulators; d) the monitoring of water quality parameters individually for each installation; e) providing biological and chemical monitoring of water, preferably with a secure SAS application; f) providing for mixed treatment of pollutants detected in the water, through automated treatment loops, preferably under Al-powered diagnostic control, injection of environmentally friendly corrective products, a chlorine shock treatment if necessary, if despite all corrective treatments applied, a dangerous microbial pollution were to persist, to ensure perfect water quality in 100% of cases; g) water balance based on detected defect parameters; h) healthy reusable water in a closed loop system; i) feedback to users and professional maintenance personnel, preferably on a continuous (24 hours per day, 7 days per week basis), potentially by an Internet of Things implementation; j) the provision of regenerated water that can be reused by living beings, humans, animals, plants, and so on, for all types of uses.

[0100] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of water treatment system.

[0101] The shown embodiment is configured to process grey water from a domestic environment, in this example a private residence. The residence 10 is provided with a plurality of water collection conduits or pipes 12, 14 disposed to collect grey water from the residence 10, for example sink water, rainwater and so on. The collection pipes 12, 14 are coupled to a central pipe 16 which feeds to a circulation pump 20 which has an outlet pipe 22 which feeds to a biological filter stage 24. In the preferred embodiment, this filter stage comprises a thalloid red alga, preferably lithothamnion, filter, commercially known to be highly effective for treating water and recovering it to a drinkable state. Any other filter, preferably biological filter, could be used instead, although lithothamnion is preferred.

[0102] The biological filter 24 has an outlet pipe 30 which leads in the preferred embodiments to one more further filtration stages, such as a final filtration membrane 32, before being passed to a storage tank 40 at which the filtered clean water is temporarily stored.

[0103] In the preferred embodiments, the system is designed to provide as pure recycled water as possible. To this end, the preferred embodiments may include additional water treatment stages, in particular an injector unit configured to inject electrically generated ozone and / or chlorine generated by salt electrolysis upstream of a UVC sterilization stage. The injected ozone will explode upon contact with the UVC rays, destroying all pollutants present in the water, guaranteeing perfect water.

[0104] The preferred embodiments also include a regulator configured to regulate the pH level of the treated water and to oxygenate the water to eliminate carbon.

[0105] The preferred embodiments also include, within the processing system, an algorithm to control the water flow and quality based on temperature and flow rates, also determined by the size of the installation, the number of residents, their individual consumption, the needs for organic plant production, swimming, and direct or delayed storage in retention, precited rain water levels, and so on.

[0106] The filtration stages, and algorithm, can be used in any embodiment disclosed herein and falling within the scope of the claims and teachings herein.

[0107] Coupled to the storage tank 40 is a diagnostic unit 42 for analysing the microbiological content of the clean water to the determine whether this meets the requirements for further domestic use, particularly as drinking water. There may also be provided an injector 50 for injecting chlorine into the clean water, for purposes described in detail below. In practical embodiments, the temporary storage tank includes a water container outlet pipe 62 which feeds back into the pump 20 for reprocessing through the filtration stages. For this purpose, the water container outlet pipe 62 may be provided with one or more valves 64, 66, preferably controlled by a control system 43 (which may be a part of the diagnostic device 42 or a separate control unit 43 as shown) so as to be opened when the diagnostic device determines that water in the temporary storage tank does not meet the required level of purity. In such an event, the second valve 66, connected to the distal end of the water container outlet pipe 62, is configured to close off the grey water pipe 16 from the residential dwelling 10 while the previously processed water is processed again through the filtration stage to increase its purity level.

[0108] When the diagnostic device 42 determines that the treated water in the storage tank 40 meets the required level of purity, the control unit 43 feeds that water, typically through a suitable pump (not shown) back to the dwelling 10, in this example, for reuse. It can be gathered from the schematic diagram that this embodiment provides apparatus and a method for processing grey waste water from a residential, or other, establishment in a closed loop within that establishment itself. The water is not fed to a remote facility and need not be stored for any length of time.

[0109] In the preferred embodiment, the first filter stage comprises a particulate disk filter and a bacterial / biological filter that provide a first filtration stage at 25 micrometres. This filter is preferably configured to remove particles present in the water and degrading 98% of the captured particles. The remaining 2% are silicates and other solid and non-biodegradable particles such as microplastics. This filter comprises a bacterial base capable of degrading organic inputs from greywater, lithothamnion being preferred.

[0110] The filtration stage preferably also includes a UV sterilization stage for destroying microbes in the waste water.

[0111] Another filtration stage, for instance the stage 32, comprises a membrane and preferably a cyclonic filter that allows for finer sub-micrometre filtration down to the micrometre level and most preferably includes a cyclonic element designed to avoid clogging by the cyclonic effect.

[0112] Various filtration stages may be provided in the filtration station to get the water to as pure a condition as practicable.

[0113] The preferred diagnostic unit 42 provides fluidic microbiological analysis by Al-powered diagnostics (hereinafter called AnIA), to detect the presence of any bacteria and / or any biochemical imbalances in the water in the temporary storage tank 40. The preferred embodiments are preferably configured to carry out such analysis in less than a minute, so consistent with the ability to provide for constant water processing and recirculation. The preferred embodiments have an analysis capacity of 1 to 1000 L of water per hour, that is of 1 m3of water per hour.

[0114] The diagnostic and processing (AnIA) system 42 preferably tests in realtime for physicochemical parameters of the water, such as: temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and conductivity, as well as chemical analysis of pollutants. It may test one or more, or for all, of these parameters. The diagnostic unit 42 may also be configured to obtain an optical reading of any colorimetric reagents in the water, possibly using Al to aid in the interpretation of the results. Preferably, the diagnostic unit 42 is configured to carry out historical monitoring of water quality, to determine reliability and robustness of the system, and may comprise an alerting system, for instance through a cellular network or other communication system, to issue an alert to an operator and / or remote monitoring service upon the detection of inadequate water quality in the tank 40.

[0115] The preferred embodiments are intended to ensure that processed water is always compliant and as pure as feasible. This can be achieved under the guidance and control of the diagnostic unit 42 and the processing unit 43, in which the fluidic microbiological analysis, preferably aided by Al-power and / or Microbiology diagnostic (AnIA) unit 42 in which case the processing unit 43 only authorizes the reuse of water in the storage tank 40 if it is compliant, by enabling the recirculation and thereby reuse of the water in the tank 40. When the diagnostic unit 42 determines that the water quality is inadequate, as well as returning this for a further round through the filtration stages 24, 32 (or for disposal as being unbeatable), the system 43 may revert to the main water network for supply of the residence 10.

[0116] The processing unit 43 is preferably configured to effect an automatic reprocessing loop, driven by the processing unit 43, in the case of detection of microbial or chemical pollution in the tank 40 storing the treated water. The preferred automatic processing loop ensures in one to three cycles (in minutes for the first cycle, less than one hour for the second cycle and up to a few hours for the third cycle) at least one or more of the following: a) sending an alert to the user notifying of the failure of the water to meet the required purity. Depending on the parameters chosen by the installer or user, the processing system 43 can cut off the water supply or switch the water supply to the main water network to guarantee continuation of water supply to the dwelling 10. During this phase, the processing unit 43 can continue to treat the water in a closed loop manner until the water is brought into compliance. Preferably, the user has the ability to set this mode, for example by providing the choice of full autonomy or partial autonomy with network fallback; b) carrying our a first complete retreatment loop (62, 20, 24, 32) for any volume of water in the tank 40 considered non-compliant, with the valves 62, 66 operating automatically, under the control of the unit 43 or other control unit, to ensure the refiltration of the entire volume of water in the tank 40. The non- compliant water will thus be returned to the grey water treatment zone and will go through the entire treatment cycle (biofiltration, UV, membrane filtration, analysis) again; c) diagnosing again the retreated water that is returned from the tank 40 by the diagnostic unit 42, such that it is not assumed that a further round of treatment would necessarily result in the water reaching the adequate quality level; d) if the retreated water is found to be compliant, the system notifies the user of the success of the retreatment and the return of the water to compliance; e) in the event that the retreated water is found a second time to fail to be in compliance with regulatory quality, the system automatically switches to chemical treatment and notifies the user of the second non-compliance of the water, requiring an automatic chemical treatment with chlorine to ensure safety; f) in the automatic chemical treatment, carrying out an automatic chlorine injection to ensure the elimination of any biological risk in the treated water tank, to ensure water purity, and checking again the quality of the chlorine-treated water; g) if the water is determined to be in compliance, the system notifies the user of the success of the chlorinated treatment and may return the water for a further round of filtration to remove residual chlorine; h) if the water is determined not to be in compliance, the system notifies the user of the chlorinated treatment failure and switches the water supply for the residence to the mains water network for supply of compliant water to the residence; i) in the case of step h) being reached, the system then carries out a chlorine chemical treatment cycle throughout the filtration system to clean the entire filtration circuit, taking into account the necessary treatment times. The system notifies the user of the actions in progress; j) after step i), the water is recirculated in the filtration system, to allow its compliance to be checked before automatic recommissioning of the apparatus; k) if the water is determined to be in conformity with regulatory standards, the system notifies the user of the success of the complete chlorinated treatment and returns the treatment system to normal operation to resume producing treated and compliant water for the residence. The control system (preferably comprising AnIA) described above provides for disconnection from the mains network and the return to the use of the treated water in the locality and notifies the user; l) if the water has not reached conformity, the system notifies the user of the failure of the complete chlorine treatment and triggers the intervention of a technician to repair the filtration system.

[0117] The preferred embodiments provide for automatic control of all electrical and electronic equipment by an intelligent and connected control panel and system, which reports any faults to the owner and users of the equipment, as well as to a professional responsible for maintenance.

[0118] In the preferred practical embodiments, the system provides a centralized SAS platform for remote control of all connected equipment, together with an alert system.

[0119] Figures 2 to 15 show another embodiment of water treatment apparatus according to another aspect of the present invention.

[0120] This embodiment is configured to provide a combined water treatment system in which a common, preferably single, tank is used for both retention and water storage functions, thereby achieving cost savings in terms of installation, land use and resources.

[0121] The system and associated method are designed to address current sustainable water management challenges by maximizing resources in order to manage the retention of water obtained as a result of heavy rainfall, for example, and water storage from greywater supplies from an establishment. The use of a common tank for both retention and storage, together with automated control of the apparatus to switch, as needed, between water retention and water storage / treatment can significantly assist in the management of water at and / or nearby an establishment and in a manner that is effective and efficient. The embodiment shown provides a combined intelligent water retention and storage system in a single flexible tank, preferably using non-watertight tubes with waterproof membrane reinforced by geotextile. The flexible tank preferably incorporates non-watertight tubes that provide structural rigidity and enable uniform pressure distribution. The entire system is preferably managed by intelligent control, taking into account real-time weather forecasts, advantageously using Al, and ultrasonic or other sensors, for optimizing water management based on climatic conditions and avoiding waste.

[0122] The apparatus features of this embodiment are discernible from Figures 2 and 3. Referring to Figure 2 first this shows in schematic form an example system 100 in accordance with this embodiment. The system 100 is designed to treat water from an establishment 110 for re-use to that same establishment, and also for the storage water in the process. The establishment 110 is provided with a pipe network 112, for example coupled to supplies of grey water from the establishment 110, as described above. In this embodiment, there are provided first and second water storage containers 120, 122, which may be disposed underground. In this embodiment, the storage container 120 is connected directly to the pipework 112 from the facility 100, which itself feeds through a pipe system 124 to a filtration stage, described in further detail below. The pipe 124 is provided with a one-way valve 126 to ensure that flow of water in storage tank 120 passes in only one direction. A second water storage tank 122 includes its own outlet pipe 128 which also couples to the filtration stage described below and to a common pipe 130, that is coupled in common with a pipe 126 from the first storage tank 120. An inlet pipe 132, described in further detail below, is coupled to an inlet of the water-storage tank 122.

[0123] The filtration station includes a first filtration stage 140, in which in its embodiment is a particulate disk filter for removing particulates from water collected from the establishment 110 and particularly water emanating from the two storage tanks 120, 122. The filtration unit 140 feeds to a first water treatment container 150, in which partially filtered water is temporarily stored. The first temporary storage tank 150 includes an outlet tube 152, controlled by a series of valves shown in the drawing and described below, the outlet pipe being pipe 152 coupled to a pipe leading to circulation pump 160. The pipe 152 is also coupled to a pipe 170 leading to a water storage exit zone 180 and also to an outlet of the recirculation pump 160, as shown in Figure 2.

[0124] The pump 160 is also coupled by a tube 162 to a biological filtration station 190, of a type as described above. The filtration stage 190 includes an outlet 192 which passes through a further filter as described above and then to take clean water to storage tank 200 for temporarily storing clean water for recirculation to the plant. The outlet of the biological filter station 190 is also coupled through a pipe 194 to a storage basin 210, which itself has a first outlet 132 feeding back to the outer water storage 122 and the second outlet 134, feeding back towards the pump 160, as will be apparent in Figure 2.

[0125] A return pipe 220 is coupled to the clean water storage tank 200 feeding clean water back to the facility 110, as will be apparent in Figure 2.

[0126] The system includes a processing unit 230, of the type similar to that described above and also in accordance with the indications given below.

[0127] The basin 210 is shown in better detail in Figure 3 and will be described below.

[0128] The basin 210 is intended as a clean water storage facility. It includes a plurality of clean water collector tubes 212 which are coupled to one another, in this embodiment, second and third pumps 214, 216, a plurality of conduits leading to storage tanks identified as C1 and C2 in Figure 3, and the basin is also provided with a protective membrane, preferably an EPDM geotextile membrane for ensuring maintenance quality of the water storage stored in the basin 210.

[0129] In practice, the basin assembly 210 is provided with a geotextile for protection and mechanical support of the waterproof membrane. The Geotextile is a non-stretch, tear-resistant material installed first. In this embodiment, it is laid out in strips with a 30 cm overlap between sections to provide mechanical protection against roots, stones and other underground elements. The geotextile also provides mechanical protection for the membrane against external pressures, ensuring a durable installation. The geotextile is located at the base of a trench or chamber dug into the ground. A waterproof membrane (preferably of EPDM, or equivalent) is then laid flat at the bottom of the excavation, pulled up along the sides, and folded umbrella-style at the corners to ensure complete waterproofing. This process creates a watertight basin 210 capable of containing water.

[0130] The non-watertight tubes 212 are positioned vertically (or horizontally depending on project requirementsjand then integrated within the membrane. These tubes 212 provide structural rigidity to the entire tank 210 and allow water to naturally distribute through the tubes 212 across the entire space formed by the membrane. This vertical or horizontal positioning is chosen based on the specific needs of the particular installation to ensure optimal stability. This system allows a single tank 210 to handle both retention and storage functions, reducing installation and land-use costs.

[0131] The system 100 is preferably equipped with ultrasonic (or other suitable) sensors that measure water levels in real-time within the tank 210. These sensors, optionally combined with an artificial intelligence (Al) system, automatically manage the available space for rainwater retention and storage under the control of the control system 230. The processing system (preferably Al based) in the preferred embodiments relies on real-time weather forecasts to release space by initiating preventive irrigation before expected rainfalls. The processing system 230 determines, advantageously through learning, the amount of water to release to ensure an optimal balance between retention and storage. This process is handled by a variable-speed pump, which serves both irrigation and filtration purposes, optimizing water resource management while reducing the costs associated with a dual-pump system.

[0132] The system 230 preferably also monitors clogging levels through volumetric measurement sensors, triggering automatic rinsing processes to prevent obstructions.

[0133] The entire system 100 is preferably controlled through a connected SAS platform (cellular connected for example), enabling real-time monitoring of water levels, clogging and maintenance alerts. Weather forecasts are advantageously integrated into the control system to maximize retention capacity during expected rainfall events, ensuring optimized performance. Users and maintenance technicians preferably receive real-time notifications, ensuring proactive and efficient management.

[0134] A drain system 218 can be installed to manage excess water during heavy rainfall. This drain 218, combined with adjustable valves and an intelligent valve system, adjusts the flow rates according to local regulations and specific site needs.

[0135] The system 100 also includes a biological water filtration system 190 that regenerates greywater (from rain, showers, laundry, and so on) for non-potable uses such as irrigation and toilet flushing, 220. A water treatment loop ensures the quality of stored water, preventing stagnation or degradation. A variable-speed pump 160 manages both filtration and irrigation, simplifying the system and reducing installation costs.

[0136] The system 100 preferably features a smart irrigation device, which anticipates irrigation needs by using stored water to irrigate the soil according to climatic conditions and actual plant requirements. Wireless sensors measuring soil moisture, temperature, light, and nutrient levels may be provided to feed data into the control (Al) system, which adjusts irrigation based on real-time data and weather forecasts. This approach can save 50 to 90% of water, ensuring maximum water savings and fostering plant root growth through regular minimal water stresses. Irrigation may be handled by the biological filtration system's pump 160, ensuring that the water quality is suitable for irrigation.

[0137] The system shown in Figures 2 and 3 can be used in individual homes, for the management of rainwater and greywater for domestic use (irrigation, toilets, and so on).

[0138] It can be used for public buildings and ERPs (establishments receiving the public), enabling water storage for green space irrigation and reduction of potable water consumption.

[0139] It can be used for agricultural facilities, enabling the reuse of rainwater and greywater for crop irrigation.

[0140] Another application is in hotels and urban areas, providing solutions compliant with local water management regulations, helping to reduce flood risks and optimise water resources. The system 100 of this embodiment addresses today's sustainable water management challenges by maximizing resources with the use of a single tank 210 for both retention and storage. The integration of advanced technologies such as ultrasonic sensors, Al, and real-time control preferably via a SAS platform can guarantee an optimized and preventive management of water resources, even during periods of drought or heavy rainfall.

[0141] Figures 4 to 15 are operational and flow charts of the operation of the preferred embodiments.

[0142] Referring first to Figure 4, this is a table of the expected operating cycles of the apparatus shown in Figures 2 and 3. Figure 2 comprises annotations for the principal electro-valves of this embodiment of the apparatus, indicated as eV1 to eV6. The drawings also show three pumps, namely pumps P1 , P2 and P3 (the second and third pumps being shown in the view of Figure 3).

[0143] The table of Figure 4 shows the expected operating cycles for different operating stages of the apparatus of Figures 2 and 3, including swimming pool filtration, backwash of the swimming pool filter, for filing the tank (number 1 ) with pure water, filling the second tank (number 2) with grey water storage in the first storage unit, filling tank number 2 with grey water storage in tank 3, filling the second storage to store clean water, filling the first tank from external storage unit 2, filling the swimming pool with clean water from tank 1 and watering garden and filling toilets, for example. The operating cycle also provides that if rain is expected the system determines expected quantity of excess rain water, empties tank 1 , then tank 2 into the external storage zones and potentially performing backwash to consume water. The system also checks the quality of water coming from the filtration disk of the backwash and outdoor storage area, provides a grate to drain skimmer overflows to the first external storage area, checks the load on the biological filter over time and / or when cleaning the captured water, as well as making sure there is no over saturation relative to the size of biological filter; and finally, for the purposes of geothermal energy, measuring a temperature that geothermal zone four times a day for possible recirculation. The table of Figure 4 shows the status of the various electro-valves and pumps for each of these particular operating cycles. The chart of Figure 4 is described in further detail in connection with Figures 5-15.

[0144] Referring now to Figure 5, this is a flow chart of the apparatus in a pool filtration mode, which starts by operating pump P1 at a speed V1 suitable for filtration purposes and closes all the valves.

[0145] Figure 6 shows the operational flow chart the second indicated cycle in Figure 4, for the purposes of providing backwash filtration to swimming pool water. In this step, the apposite valve is positioned to the backwash configuration, either manually or automatically. If it is determined that the water level in tank number 2 collapses to less than 50% of its capacity, the system starts operating the pump P1 at the speed V2, intended to provide maximum backwash. If tank number 2 collapses to more than 50% of capacity, the system launches a procedure for filling tank number 1 from tank number 2. As soon as tank number 2 reaches the required level, the system launches a backwash by means of setting up P1 at a maximum backwash speed of V2. After a delay of 30-60 seconds, in this example, the system interrupts P1 or otherwise provides a controlled indication to effect a manual stop of that pump. Next, the valve is set for rinsing, either automatically by the system or by generating a control signal or an operator to reconfigure the valve manually. In the next step, pump P1 is operated at the speed V2 to provide a maximum rinse period and after a delay of between 30-60 seconds, in this example, the system interrupts the operation pump P1 . Finally, the system positions the valve into its filtration configuration, automatically via the system or generates the appropriate command so this valve is positioned manually.

[0146] Referring now to Figure 7, this depicts the operation of cycle 3, in which tank number 1 is filled with pure water from grey water in tank number 2. In the first step of this cycle, at a set time tank number 1 is filled, typically once per day. The system tests the water level in tank 1 and particularly whether this is less than 100% full. The system also tests the level of water in tank 2 and particularly whether the level of water in the second tank is above 10% of its capacity. At step 2, assuming the level of water in tank 1 has been deemed to be less than 100% and the level of water in tank 2 has been determined to be greater than 10%, the system opens valve eV1 so that tank 1 continues to be filled and also opens valve eV3 to enable water to pass from tank 2 to tank 1 . In step 3, the system starts pumping P1 at speed V3, which is preferably an average speed determined on the basis of the size of tank 1 . This is something a person skilled in the art will readily be able to determine.

[0147] Finally, at step 4, if it is determined that the level of water in tank 1 has reached 10% or otherwise the level of water in tank 2 has dropped below 1 %, or if there has been a manual stop, the system returns to standard operating speed for pump P1 and closes the solenoid valves eV1 and eV3.

[0148] Referring now to Figure 8, this shows cycle 4 which involves filling tank number 2 with grey water from the external storage tank 1 . At step 1 in this cycle, at a set time for filling tank 2 (in this example once a day before filling) the system tests the water level in tank 2. If it is determined that the level is below 100%, the system tests the storage level in external tank 1 to determine if this is greater than 5% of capacity. If so, at step 2, operation of pump P1 is stopped and at step 3 pump 2 is operated to start drainage. At step 4, if it is determined that the level of water in tank 2 is 100% or the level of water in external tank 1 is below 1 %, or if there has been a manual stop to the operation of the system, the system stops the cellar drain pump P2 and returns to standard operation of pump P1 according to the operating set points.

[0149] Figure 9 shows operating cycle number 5, in which tank number 2 is filled with grey water from the external storage tank 3 (when it is determined that external storage tank 1 is empty). In step 1 , at a set time for filling tank 2, for example before filling tank 1 , the system tests the level of water in tank 2 and if this is less than 100% tests the level of water in external storage tank 1 . If this is less than 1 %, the system then tests the level of water in external storage tank 3. If this is greater than 5% then, at step 2, pump P1 is halted. At step 3 the system begins to operate pump P3 to effect drainage and at step 4 the system then tests whether the level of water in tank 2 has now reached 100% or the level of water in external storage tank 3 is below 1 % or if a manual stop has been commanded, in which case the system halts the operation of the drain pump P3, and returns to standard operating of pump P1 . l ' l

[0150] Figure 10 shows operating cycle 6, in which external storage tank 2 is filled with pure water from tank 1 . In the first step, at a set time, the system fills the external tank 2 (typically once a day in this example) and the tests the level of water in tank 1 particularly if this is at 100%. The system also tests the level of water in tank 2 to determine if this is at 100%. If so, at step 2, the system operates the electro-valve eV2 to empty tank 1 and opens the electro-valve eV6 to fill external tank 2. In step 3, the system starts pump P1 at an average speed V3, preferably determined on the basis of the size of tank 1 , which is something well within the ability of the skilled person to calculate. Finally, at step 4, the system determines tests if the level of water in tank 1 is less than 1 %, or the level in water in external tank 2 is 100% or if there has been a manual command to stop operation, at which point the system returns for operation of pump P1 at normal operating speeds and closes the electro-valves eV1 and eV6.

[0151] With reference to Figure 11 , this shows cycle 7 in the table of Figure 4, which involves filling tank 1 with pure water from external storage tank 2 (when tank 2 is empty). At step 1 , at an appropriate time, for example once a day, the system fills tank 1 and then tests if the level of water in tank 1 is less than 100% and also if the level of water in tank 2 is less than 1 %, and also tests the level of water in external storage tank 2 to determine if this is greater than 10%. In such an event, the system opens valve eV1 for filling tank 1 and opens valve eV4 to external tank 2. At step 3, the system starts pump P1 at an average speed V3, determined on the basis of the size of tank 1 (readily determinable by the skilled person) and at step 4 the system tests that the level of water in tank 1 is at 100%, or the level of water in external storage tank is less than 1 % or if there has been a manual stop of the system, in which case the system returns pump P1 to standard operating speed and closes the solenoid valves eV1 and eV4.

[0152] Figure 12 shows operating cycle 8, which involves filling the swimming pool of the establishment with pure water from tank 1 . In this cycle at step 1 , at a set time filling the swimming pool (once a day in this example) the system tests the level of water in the swimming pool, specifically if this is less than 100% and also tests for the level of water in tank 1 , specifically if this is greater than 3%. If so, at step 2, the system opens electro-valve eV1 to empty tank 1 and, at step 3, starts pump P1 at an average, fast, speed V4. At step 4, the system tests if the level of water in tank 1 is less than 1 % or if the level of water in the swimming pool is 100% or if a timer period has expired, or if there has been a manual stop in the operation of the system. The system returns pump P1 to its standard operating speed and closes the electro-valve eV2.

[0153] With reference to Figure 13, this shows the operating cycle 9, in which the system waters a garden of the establishment with pure water from tank 1 . At step 1 , at a set time for watering the garden (in this example to be done once a day after filling of tank 1 ) the system tests the level of water in tank 1 and if this is greater than 10% and assuming that, on the basis of a signal from a pressure sensor there is no particular need for water elsewhere in the establishment, the system moves to step 2, which opens the electro-valve eV2 to begin emptying tank 1 and opens electro-valve eV5, which is a watering solenoid valve. At step 3, the system starts pump P1 at a high speed V5.

[0154] At step 4, the system tests the level of water in tank 1 is less than 1 % or if a watering cycle has reached its end, or the determined pressure of water requirement from the establishment drops below a certain level, or if there is a manual stop of the system, the system returns the pump P1 to its standard operating speed and closes the electro-valves eV1 and eV5.

[0155] With reference to cycle 10, the flow chart of Figure 14 shows the operation in relation to the water retention feature of this aspect of the invention, particularly the monitoring of rain or rain expectation to provide water retention in the tanks when it is determined that this is or will be above a certain threshold.

[0156] At step 1 , in this embodiment, the system monitors for rain, four times a day (the number of times of the day being at the option of the operator). Specifically the system tests for the risk of heavy rain and if this is determined proceeds to empty a part or all of the outdoor storage areas 1 , 2 or 3 in the garden by triggering preventative watering to allow the garden or other ground to absorb the water regularly throughout the day. If this is insufficient, the water is emptied into the sewers or a rainwater drainage system. At step 2, at the detection of a heavy rain alert (preferably defined as certain rainfall, for example in centimetres per square metre). At such an alert, the system triggers automatic watering for the duration necessary to consume the amount of water deemed consistent with how much rainwater would be collected, which may for instance be determined by the roof and other water gathering areas of the establishment or by measures taken at previous heavy rainfall events. If it is determined that available storage tank capacity is insufficient and / or that not all of the water in the storage tanks can be used for watering the garden, the system sends excess water to the sewage system and / or rainwater waste system. It will be appreciated that this is done in good time before the onset of heavy rainfall and therefore before the onset of need for absorbing that rainfall. If needed to be sent to the sewage system (or rainwater drainage system) the system at step 3 opens electro-valve eV7 and / or electro valve eV6. At step 4, the system tests whether target level for destocking has been reached (or a duration of emptying has been reached) or if there has been a manual stop of the system, and then the system returns pump P1 to a standard operating speed and closes electro-valve eV7.

[0157] Figure 15 shows operating cycle 11 , which manages jets by acceleration of the output of pump P1 . In this cycle, in step 1 , the valve associated with pump P1 is positioned in a manual or automatic recirculation mode. At step 2, pump P1 is set at a massage speed V7, which may be adjustable by operator control, for example a cursor on a display screen.

[0158] At step 3, after a delay of a certain amount of time, 5 minutes in this example, the system returns the pump to its initial speed, or otherwise does so when there has been a command to stop this operation of the pump manually. The valve of the pump is then configured to standard filtration, automatically or by command of the manual control.

[0159] Figures 16 to 20 show another embodiment of the invention in which there is provided a water retention and treatment system for use also in feeding water to a swimming pool, for example. At least a part of this embodiment has material similarities with the structure of container used as a common storage tank in the embodiment of Figures 2 to 15. This embodiment preferably also uses non-sealed tubes within a membrane reinforced by geotextile, integrating greywater reuse, intelligent irrigation, and automated management by ultrasonic sensors, controlled by a SAS platform with real-time weather forecasting. This embodiment provides a water storage system using non-watertight tubes to reinforce a waterproof membrane (EPDM or other materials), allowing for the creation of buried tanks, either standalone or integrated with existing structures (such as swimming pools or buildings), which can be easy to install, cost-effective and durable. Furthermore, the preferred embodiment also addresses greywater reuse, smart irrigation, and environmental conservation.

[0160] In the preferred embodiments, this embodiment proposes a modular water storage and retention system using non-sealed tubes integrated into a waterproof membrane reinforced by geotextile. This is coupled with intelligent and automatic management of water levels between storage and retention, relying on real-time weather forecasts to optimize resource management and prevent flooding during heavy rains.

[0161] Figure 16 is a plan view of an embodiment of installation of a retention basin with tubing in a membrane around a swimming pool; while Figure 17 is a detailed view of the installation of non-watertight tubes in a waterproof membrane, side by side. Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view demonstrating a complete water retention system, with geotextile protection, waterproof membrane, and vertical tube positioning according to a preferred embodiment. Figure 19 is a schematic diagram showing a water cycle of the system of this embodiment, and Figure 20 depicts a use case example of the integration of water regeneration for residential or industrial water storage with flow regulation and greywater reuse.

[0162] Referring to Figure 16, this shows in plan view and in schematic form an example of a retention basin according to the teachings herein. The assembly 300 shown in Figure 16 is based on a swimming pool configuration in which an array of water retention tubes 310 are disposed peripherally around the swimming pool 320, which are preferably invisible at ground level by being covered entirely by tiling or other similar floor material 320, forming a border to the swimming pool 320. In one embodiment, the water retention tubes 310 form a water retention basin, which in this example could be of 30 cubic meters, although they could be of any other suitable size.

[0163] In practical terms, fitting a water retention basin of this nature within a garden or other area can save significantly on available garden space and also the amount of work involved to excavate the ground to provide such basins, the swimming pool and the water retention chamber. In some examples, 40% more garden space may be saved, there can be up to 30% savings in terms of surface area required, and a single excavation hole.

[0164] Figure 17 shows in more detail of the arrangement of Figure 16. The swimming pool 330 is provided within a chamber, typically concrete or rigid plastics 340, and around which the water retention tubes 310 are disposed, preferably within their own outer casing 350. A waterproof membrane 350, preferably made of EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), is disposed around the entire perimeter of the swimming pool. The water retention tubes 310 are disposed side-by-side around the entire perimeter of the swimming pool and to a height just below the surface of the ground. A duo textile 360 is preferably arranged as an outermost layer to the assembly 300 and also to the array of water retention tubes 310. There may be provided at or close to ground level a series of tube anchoring elements 370 for ensuring that the tubes 310 maintain a vertically upright orientation, particularly when filled with water. The tubes 310 are preferably flu idical ly connected to one another and have at least an inlet and an outlet for filling and emptying dependent on need.

[0165] Figure 18 shows another embodiment of insulation, which in this case is purely a water retention chamber 400 made of water retention tubes 310 in a two- dimensional array to form a water retention tank. The array may include an EDPM waterproof membrane disposed over the entire volume of the retention basin (at least below ground level), a duo textile as an outer covering and ground anchoring elements 370 to anchor the tubes to the neighbouring ground surface. There may also be provided anchoring elements 372 between adjacent tubes to keep the entire structure stable, both when empty and when full of water. It will be appreciated that the left hand perspective view in Figure 18 shows an array of water retention tubes only two tubes across, this being a slightly modified embodiment compared to plan view on the right hand side of Figure 18, which shows an array of tubes 5 tubes wide. These are merely design alternatives. In similar fashion, while the embodiment of Figure 17 shows a single line or row of water retention tubes 310 around the swimming pool 330, other embodiments may have a plurality of rows of tubes 310.

[0166] Referring now to Figure 19, this shows in schematic form the cycle of water within the system that can be provided for this embodiment and particularly for the bio-regeneration of water in a plurality of what could be described as primary uses including: retention, regeneration, smart irrigation and domestic usage. In the preferred embodiments, biological water regeneration shared by the entire system can be used for swimming pool water 330, for irrigation of the garden 510 in which water can infiltrate through soil through regular irrigation, for collection of rain water, for household return water for toilets and washing machines, for example, in a facility 500, and also for storage of retention water 310 as previously described, particularly for retain excess rain water detected by the system. For this purpose, the system has elements similar to those described in connection with the previous embodiments.

[0167] An example embodiment is shown in Figure 20, which provides for the reuse of grey water and also for water retention. In this simplified schematic diagram, water is used and collected by and for an establishment 500, for example a factory, a hotel, a residential unit and so on, a swimming pool 330 and for irrigation of a garden. The system includes a general control system 522, of a type as previously described, a plurality of conduits leading from the facility 500 for collection of grey water and excess rain water, a pump 516 for pumping water around the system, a filtration system including, preferably, a biological filter 512 and a final filtration membrane 514, as previously described. A clean water storage tank 518 is provided for storing treated, clean water. The system may include the sensors and control features described above.

[0168] The water retention unit 310 preferably stores excess rain water and may also store grey water obtained from the facility 500 and grey water emanating from the swimming pool 330. (It would be apparent in connection with Figure 20 that the water retention basin 310 is preferably disposed around the periphery of the swimming pool 330 as per Figures 16 and 17.)

[0169] The grey water is pumped, by means of the circulation pump 516, to the biological filter 512, which may be of the type described above. There is preferably also included a final filtration membrane 514, which may be of the type previously described, whereafter the treated water is held in the storage tank 518. This can be fed to an irrigation system for irrigating the garden 510, which system may be operated if it is determined that the water of the storage tank 518 is not of sufficient purity to be fed back to the establishment 500, for example for drinking purposes, in which case the system can provide water for irrigation purposes, depending on the set up chosen by the skilled person. The water from the storage tank 518 may also be supplied to the swimming pool 330 for replenishing that, and it may also be supplied back to the facility either as a primary drinking water or as secondary grade water for use, for example, in washing, toilets and the like.

[0170] It will be appreciated that the system depicted in Figure 20 preferably includes a variety of valves operated by the control system 522 in manners analogous and similar the above-described embodiments.

[0171] In the preparation of the assembly of this embodiment, the geotextile, a non-stretchable and tear-resistant material, is preferably installed first. It is preferably deployed in strips with a 30 cm overlap between sections to provide mechanical protection against roots, stones and other elements that may be present in the ground. This material also protects the membrane from external mechanical stresses, ensuring stability in difficult environments.

[0172] After the geotextile 360 is installed, the waterproof membrane 350, usually made of EPDM, is placed. This membrane is laid flat on the bottom of the storage area, then raised along the sides. The corners are folded using umbrella folds to ensure a complete seal, and the upper layers can be welded together for full waterproofing in three dimensions.

[0173] The membrane 350 is preferably held in place by the weight of the surrounding materials and the installation of the tubes 310. The EPDM membrane 350 preferably used offers 300% elasticity, making it suitable for ground movement and high water pressures.

[0174] The tubes 310, which in the preferred embodiments are preferably not watertight, are then placed inside the membrane 350. These tubes 310, typically made of PVC or polyethylene, have in the preferred embodiment a typical diameter of 60 cm and a height of around 1 .5 metres, though these dimensions may vary based on the project. The tubes 310 are positioned vertically or horizontally depending on the site's structural constraints.

[0175] The tubes 310 are arranged side by side, providing structural rigidity to the tank and enabling even distribution of external and internal pressures.

[0176] In a preferred embodiment, non-sealed tubes 310, positioned vertically, provide structural rigidity and ensure uniform distribution of internal and external pressures. These tubes 310 are preferably anchored to each other and to the surrounding structures for optimal stability.

[0177] The tubes 310 can be secured to the ground or surrounding structures, providing additional stability to the system, as shown in Figures 17 and 18.

[0178] As with the previously described embodiments, the system of this embodiment preferably includes automatic control of water levels using ultrasonic or other suitable sensors configured to detect real-time water levels in the tanks. These sensors can also measure the clogging rate of the tanks and trigger alerts when maintenance is required.

[0179] Water levels are preferably managed based on real-time weather forecasts, optimizing available space in the retention basin 310 during periods of high rainfall and ensuring sufficient water reserves during dry periods.

[0180] The entire system is preferably controlled by a SAS (or similar) platform connected, for example through a cellular or other network, to allow for real-time monitoring of water levels, clogging rates and alert management. The weather forecasts are preferably integrated into the system to optimize water levels and maximize retention capacity during weather events. Users and maintenance technicians can receive notifications in real-time, ensuring proactive resource management.

[0181] A drain can be installed to manage excess water during heavy rain. This drain, equipped with a regulating valve, allows the flow to be adjusted based on local regulations and site-specific needs.

[0182] The biological filtration system 512 treats greywater from the establishment 500 (showers, washing machines, and so on) in most embodiments only for non- potable reuse (irrigation, toilets). The reuse of greywater significantly reduces the consumption of potable water and meets modem sustainability standards. The filtration system could also be sufficient to generate high purity water for drinking, as per the first described embodiment.

[0183] The preferred system features an intelligent irrigation device that uses stored water pre-emptively and controls garden irrigation while adjusting the flow based on weather conditions. It prevents over-irrigation during wet periods and allows for gradual infiltration into groundwater, helping to preserve underground water resources and maintain soil balance.

[0184] This embodiment can be used for: a) Homes and residential buildings. The system is ideal for homes that need to store and reuse rainwater or greywater. It helps reduce the load on the local water network and supports sustainable living. It can provide for management of rainwater and greywater for domestic use (irrigation, toilets). b) Hotels and large public buildings. For hotels, offices, public spaces and the like, the system enables significant savings on water usage and provides longterm solutions for greywater reuse, retention and irrigation. It can provide for storage of water for irrigation of green spaces and reducing potable water consumption. c) Agriculture and Industry. In agricultural and industrial settings, the system can be used to store water for irrigation or industrial processes, helping reduce dependency on municipal water supplies. It can provide for reuse of rainwater and greywater for irrigation and other industrial processes. d) Swimming Pools and Outdoor Areas. The system can also integrate with swimming pools by providing a secondary water retention system that captures pool overflow and recycles it back into the system for other uses. e) Urban Areas. Solutions that comply with local regulations for managing rainwater while reducing the risk of flooding and maximizing water reuse.

[0185] This embodiment, and also the other envisaged embodiments, can have the following technical advantages: a) Easy installation. The modular and scalable nature of the system ensures quick and simple installation, even in challenging environments. Only one excavation is required. b) Environmentally friendly. The use of recyclable materials such as EPDM and PVC / polyethylene for the tubes and membrane can ensure that the system minimizes its environmental footprint. c) Cost efficiency. The system can be 30% cheaper than traditional retention or bathing pool solutions, and can offer 40% more available garden space due to the efficient storage design. d) Long-lasting durability. The combination of geotextile and EPDM membrane can provide mechanical protection and ensure the system's long-term functionality without heavy maintenance. This system can address current challenges in sustainable water management, relying on advanced technologies such as ultrasonic sensors and real-time SAS platform control, ensuring optimized and proactive management of water resources, even during periods of high water stress or heavy rainfall.

[0186] The various features of the described embodiments can be used together. They are not intended to be exclusive to any one embodiment.

[0187] The disclosures in British patent application numbers GB 2411562.8, GB 2414359.6 and GB 2414366.1 , from which this application claims priority, and in the abstract accompanying this application are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . Water treatment apparatus for treating water for the purposes of recirculation to a location of use, comprising: a normally closed circuit water recirculation pathway for treating water obtained from at least one location and for returning treated water to the same location; a filtration station located within the water recirculation pathway; a temporary water storage station located downstream of the filtration station; a diagnostic unit coupled to the temporary water storage facility and configured to determine the quality of water in the temporary water storage station; and a control system configured to return to the location water from the temporary water storage facility when it is determined the quality of the water in the temporary storage station meets at least a minimum quality threshold.

2. Apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control system is configured to cause water in the temporary storage station to be returned to the filtration station when it is determined that the water quality does not meet at least the minimum quality threshold.

3. Apparatus according to claim 2, comprising a fluidic valve disposed upstream of the filtration station and a conduit between the temporary water storage station and the fluidic valve, wherein the control system is configured to operate the fluidic valve to close off water flow from the location to the filtration station and permit water flow from the temporary water storage facility for a further round of filtration.

4. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, including a chlorination station configured to add chlorine to the treated water upon diagnosis of failure of the treated water to meet at least the minimum quality threshold.

5. Apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the processing system is configured to cause the chlorination station to operate upon the detection of retreated water failing to meet at least the minimum quality threshold.

6. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the filtration stage includes at least one biological filter.

7. Apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the biological filter is or comprises a lithothamnion filter.

8. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the filtration station comprises a particulate disk filter.

9. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the filtration station comprises a membrane and cyclonic filter.

10. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the minimum water quality threshold is a drinkable water threshold.11 . Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the processing system is an adaptive control unit or an artificial intelligence configured to provide variable control dependent upon learning from at least the history of water treatment by the apparatus.

12. Apparatus according to claim 11 , wherein the processing system is configured to learn from neighbouring water treatment apparatus.

13. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus is configured to treat all greywaters, rainwater, shower water, bath water, sink water, washing machine water, river water, sea water, wells water, water from water desalination units, water from any type of source with low water contamination.

14. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, including a user interface unit configured to provide information to a user on the condition of treated water, and a warning in the event that one or more filtrations cycles fail to bring the water to at least the minimum quality threshold.

15. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the processing system is configured to close off resupply of treated water in the event treated water is determined not to meet the minimum quality threshold and to restore mains water supply to the location.

16. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the processing system is configured to carry out a chlorine chemical treatment cycle throughout the filtration station in the event that chlorination treatment of water is determined to have been ineffective.

17. A method of treating water for the purposes of recirculation to a location of use, comprising the steps of: providing a normally closed circuit water recirculation pathway for treating water obtained from at least one location and for returning treated water to the same location; providing filtration of water within the water recirculation pathway; providing temporary water storage downstream of the filtration station; providing diagnosis of water temporarily stored and determining the quality of water temporarily stored; andreturning water to the location water from temporary storage when it is determined the quality of the water in temporary storage meets at least a minimum quality threshold.

18. A method according to claim 17, including returning water to the filtration station when it is determined that the water quality does not meet at least the minimum quality threshold.

19. A method according to claim 18, comprising closing off water flow from the location and permitting water flow from temporary storage for a further round of filtration.

20. A method according to any one of claims 17 to 19, including adding chlorine to the treated water upon diagnosis of failure of the treated water to meet at least the minimum quality threshold.21 . A method according to claim 20, wherein chlorination is carried out upon the detection of retreated water failing to meet at least the minimum quality threshold.

22. A method according to any one of claims 17 to 21 , wherein the filtration includes at least one biological filter.

23. A method according to claim 22, wherein the biological filtration is through a lithothamnion filter.

24. A method according to any one of claims 17 to 23, including filtration through a particulate disk filter.

25. A method according to any one of claims 17 to 24, including filtration station through a membrane and cyclonic filter.

26. A method according to any one of claims 17 to 25, wherein the minimum water quality threshold is a drinkable water threshold.

27. A method according to any one of claims 17 to 26, including providing variable control dependent upon learning from at least the history of water treatment.

28. A method according to claim 26 or 27, including the step of learning from neighbouring water treatment apparatus.

29. A method according to any one of claims 17 to 28, wherein the method is configured to treat all greywaters, rainwater, shower water, bath water, sink water, washing machine water, river water, sea water, wells water, water from water desalination units, water from any type of source with low water contamination.

30. A method according to any one of claims 17 to 29, including providing information to a user on the condition of treated water, and providing a warning in the event that one or more fi Itrations cycles fail to bring the water to at least the minimum quality threshold.31 . A method according to any one of claims 17 to 30, including closing off resupply of treated water in the event treated water is determined not to meet the minimum quality threshold and restoring mains water supply to the location.

32. A method according to any one of claims 17 to 31 , including the step of carrying out a chlorine chemical treatment cycle throughout the filtration station in the event that chlorination treatment of water is determined to have been ineffective.

33. Apparatus for retaining and storing water, comprising: a common water storage tank;a conduit coupled to the common water tank from a grey water collection facility of an establishment; a conduit coupled to the common water tank from a rain water collection facility of an establishment; a control system configured to determine expected rainfall at the establishment; wherein the control system is configured to provide for grey water treatment for the purposes of reuse of the grey water; wherein the control system is configured to provide for retention of rain water in the common tank when it is determined that expected rainwater will exceed a threshold.

34. Apparatus according to claim 33, wherein the control system is configured to stop treatment of grey water in the determination of expected rainfall exceeding the threshold.

35. Apparatus according to claim 33 or 34, wherein the control system is configured to remove water from the common storage tank in dependence upon the determined expected rainfall.

36. Apparatus according to claim 35, wherein the control system is configured to remove water from the common storage tank by causing utilization of treated grey water by the establishment and / or by draining treated waste water into a sewer or treated water mains system.

37. Apparatus according to any one of claims 33 to 36, wherein the common tank is made of a waterproof membrane reinforced by a geotextile.

38. Apparatus according to claim 37, wherein the tank incorporates non- watertight tubes providing structural rigidity and enabling uniform pressure distribution.

39. Apparatus according to any one of claims 33 to 38, comprising a control system configured to take into account real-time weather forecasts for optimizing water management based on climatic conditions.

40. Apparatus according to any one of claims 33 to 39, comprising one or more sensors configured to measure water levels in real-time within the storage tank.41 . Apparatus according to claim 40, wherein the control system is configured to manage available storage space for rainwater retention and storage, including optionally on the basis of weather forecasts to release space by initiating irrigation before expected rainfalls.

42. Apparatus according to any one of claims 33 to 41 , comprising a variable-speed pump configured to serve both irrigation and filtration purposes.

43. Apparatus according to any one of claims 33 to 42, wherein the control system is configured to monitor clogging levels through volumetric measurement sensors, and to trigger automatic rinsing to prevent obstructions.

44. Apparatus according to any one of claims 33 to 43, comprising a drain system configured to manage excess water during rainfall.

45. Apparatus according to claim 44, wherein the drain system includes adjustable valves and valve control valve system configured to adjust flow rates.

46. Apparatus according to any one of claims 33 to 45, including a biological water filtration system configured to filter greywater.

47. Apparatus according to any one of claims 33 to 46, comprising a water treatment loop configured to ensure the quality of stored water, and to prevent stagnation or degradation.

48. Apparatus according to any one of claims 33 to 47, comprising an irrigation unit configured to anticipate irrigation needs by using stored water for irrigation according to climatic conditions and actual plant requirements.

49. Apparatus according to claim 48, comprising one or more sensors disposed to measure at least one of and preferably all of: soil moisture, temperature, light, and nutrient levels.

50. A method of retaining and storing water, comprising: providing a common water storage tank with a first conduit coupled to a grey water collection facility of an establishment and a second conduit coupled to a rain water collection facility of the establishment; providing for grey water treatment for the purposes of reuse of the grey water; determining expected rainfall at the establishment; wherein when it is determined that expected rainwater will exceed a threshold the method includes the step of retaining rain water in the common tank.51 . A method according to claim 50, including the step of stopping treatment of grey water on the determination of expected rainfall exceeding the threshold.

52. A method according to claim 50 or 51 , including the step of removing water from the common storage tank in dependence upon the determined expected rainfall.

53. A method according to claim 52, including the step of removing water from the common storage tank by causing utilization of treated grey water by the establishment and / or by draining treated waste water into a sewer or treated water mains system.

54. A method according to any one of claims 50 to 53, wherein the common tank is made of a waterproof membrane reinforced by a geotextile.

55. A method according to claim 54, wherein the tank incorporates non- watertight tubes providing structural rigidity and enabling uniform pressure distribution.

56. A method according to any one of claims 50 to 55, including the step of taking into account real-time weather forecasts for optimizing water management based on climatic conditions.

57. A method according to any one of claims 50 to 56, including the step of measuring water levels in real-time within the storage tank.

58. A method according to claim 57, including the step of managing available storage space for rainwater retention and storage, including optionally on the basis of weather forecasts to release space by initiating irrigation before expected rainfalls.

59. A method according to any one of claims 50 to 58, including the step of operating a variable-speed pump to serve both irrigation and filtration purposes.

60. A method according to any one of claims 50 to 59, including the step of monitoring clogging levels through volumetric measurement sensors, and triggering automatic rinsing to prevent obstructions.61 . A method according to any one of claims 50 to 60, including the step of managing excess water during rainfall.

62. A method according to claim 61 , including the step of operating adjustable valves to adjust flow rates.

63. A method according to any one of claims 50 to 62, including the step of providing biological water filtration of grey water.

64. A method according to any one of claims 50 to 63, including the step of providing a water treatment loop configured to ensure the quality of stored water, and preventing stagnation or degradation.

65. A method according to any one of claims 50 to 64, including the step of anticipating irrigation needs by using stored water for irrigation according to climatic conditions and actual plant requirements.

66. A method according to claim 65, including the step of measuring at least one of and preferably all of: soil moisture, temperature, light, and nutrient levels.

67. A water retention and treatment assembly comprising: a water storage tank formed of a plurality of water retention tubes, which tubes are flu idical ly connected to one another; a water impermeable membrane configured to surround the tubes; a geotextile casing; wherein the assembly is configured to be buried below ground.

68. Apparatus according to claim 67, wherein the water storage tank is disposed around a perimeter of a swimming pool.

69. Apparatus according to claim 67 or 68, wherein the water retention tubes are made of a non-watertight tubes material.

70. Apparatus according to any one of claims 67 to 69, comprising a conduit configured to collect greywater from an establishment.71 . Apparatus according to any one of claims 67 to 70, comprising an irrigation system configured to obtain irrigation water from the water storage tank.

72. Apparatus according to any one of claims 67 to 71 , comprising an control system operable to control input and output of water to the water tank.

73. Apparatus according to claim 72, wherein the control system is configured to determine expected rainfall and to control water collection in the water tank in the basis of determined rainfall.

74. Apparatus according to any one of claims 67 to 73, wherein the tubes are made of PVC or polyethylene.

75. Apparatus according to any one of claims 67 to 74, wherein the tubes have a diameter of around 60 cm and a height of around 1 .5 metres.

76. Apparatus according to any one of claims 67 to 75, wherein the tubes are positioned vertically or horizontally.

77. Apparatus according to any one of claims 67 to 76, wherein the tubes are arranged side by side.

78. Apparatus according to any one of claims 67 to 77, wherein the tubes are anchored to each other.

79. Apparatus according to any one of claims 67 to 78, comprising automatic control of water levels using ultrasonic or other suitable sensors configured to detect real-time water levels in the tanks.

80. Apparatus according to any one of claims 67 to 79, including a SAS platform for real-time monitoring of water levels, clogging rates and alert management.81 . Apparatus according to claim 80, including an alert system configured to generate an alert related to actual or predicted water levels within the water tank.

82. Apparatus according to any one of claims 67 to 81 , including a drain and a regulating valve.

83. Apparatus according to any one of claims 67 to 82, including a biological filtration system.

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