One-way valve assembly for dewatering

Abstract

The present invention relates to a one-way valve assembly for dewatering a hole or trench. The valve assembly is designed to be connected to an end of a receptacle and includes a capping member that facilitates attachment. The capping member features an aperture to allow fluid passage. A valve is connected to the capping member and comprises a sealing member positioned over the aperture. A flexible arm connects the sealing member to the capping member, with the flexible arm being pivotally connected at an end distal to the sealing member.

Description

[0001] One-Way Valve Assembly For Dewatering

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] [1] The present invention relates to one-way valve assemblies and liquid collection assemblies that can be used for dewatering holes and trenches.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] [2] Any references to methods, apparatus or documents of the prior art are not to be taken as constituting any evidence or admission that they formed, or form part of the common general knowledge.

[0006] [3] Efficient liquid collection and transfer systems (commonly known as dewatering systems) are widely utilized in various industries, including agriculture, construction, plumbing, water management, and environmental conservation. These systems are commonly employed to collect and transport water or other liquids from wells, boreholes, or reservoirs. A fundamental challenge in these applications is ensuring a reliable one-way flow of liquid while preventing contamination or blockages that could disrupt operation.

[0007] [4] Tradespeople, such as builders and plumbers, frequently encounter the need to remove water from holes or trenches, particularly in construction and plumbing projects. Dewatering these excavations is often necessary to proceed with work safely and efficiently. A tradesperson can attempt to scoop the water by hand, but this is messy, largely ineffective and limited by the length of the arm.

[0008] [5] Conventional liquid collection and transfer solutions often rely on electrical and petrol pumps to draw and move liquid. While effective in many cases, thesepumps present several issues that can limit their practicality and efficiency. One significant drawback is their susceptibility to clogging when operating in environments containing sand, mud, or other debris. This problem is particularly pronounced in groundwater collection and borehole extraction, where sedimentladen water can lead to frequent maintenance and operational failures.

[0009] [6] In addition to clogging issues, electrical pumps require a continuous power source to function. This dependency can be problematic in remote or off-grid locations where power availability is inconsistent or unreliable. As a result, users must invest in backup power solutions or alternative energy sources, adding to the complexity and cost of these systems.

[0010] [7] Furthermore, electrical pumps can be expensive to purchase, install, and maintain. Repairing or replacing components due to wear, clogging, or mechanical failure can lead to high operational costs over time. These economic and maintenance burdens make electrical pumps less accessible for users seeking a more cost-effective and low-maintenance solution for liquid collection and transfer.

[0011] [8] Given these limitations, there is a need for an alternative approach that ensures efficient and reliable liquid collection while addressing the challenges associated with clogging, power dependency, and cost-intensive maintenance.

[0012] SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0013] [9] In an aspect, the invention provides a one-way valve assembly for dewatering a hole or trench configured to be connected to an end of a receptacle, the one-way valve assembly comprising:

[0014] a capping member for connection to an end of a receptacle, the capping member having an aperture to allow fluid therethrough;a valve connected to the capping member, the valve comprising:

[0015] a sealing member located over the aperture of the capping member to seal the aperture; and

[0016] a flexible arm connecting the sealing member to the capping member, wherein the flexible arm is pivotally connected to the capping member at an end distal to the sealing member.

[0017]

[0010] In another aspect, the invention provides a liquid collecting assembly, the liquid collecting assembly comprising:

[0018] a receptacle; and

[0019] a one-way valve assembly removably connected to an end of the receptacle, the one-way valve assembly comprising:

[0020] a capping member for connection to an end of a receptacle, the capping member having an aperture to allow fluid therethrough;

[0021] a valve connected to the capping member, the valve comprising:

[0022] a sealing member located over the aperture of the capping member to seal the aperture; and

[0023] a flexible arm connecting the sealing member to the capping member, wherein the flexible arm is pivotally connected to the capping member at an end distal to the sealing member.

[0024]

[0011] Preferably, the sealing member comprises an annular recess formed therein.

[0025]

[0012] Preferably, the valve comprises rubber.

[0026]

[0013] Preferably, the receptacle comprises an elongate PVC (polyvinyl chloride) member.

[0027]

[0014] Preferably, the capping member comprises an annular projection about the aperture. Preferably, the capping member comprises PVC.

[0015] Preferably, the flexible arm comprises one or more connecting members for connecting the valve to the capping member. Preferably, the one or more connecting members project perpendicularly from the flexible arm.

[0028]

[0016] Preferably, the capping member comprises a body having a face portion and one or more side portions extending perpendicularly from the face portion. Preferably, the valve is connected to the face portion. More preferably, the valve is located within an internal volume or space defined by the face portion and the one or more side portions.

[0029]

[0017] Preferably, the flexible arm is pivotally connected to the capping member such that the sealing member is movable away from the aperture into the receptacle to permit fluid ingress.

[0030]

[0018] In another aspect, the invention provides a liquid collecting assembly, the liquid collecting assembly comprising:

[0031] a receptacle having a one-way valve assembly located at an end of the receptacle, the one-way valve assembly comprising a capping member integrally formed with the receptacle and a valve connected thereto, the valve comprising:

[0032] a sealing member located over an aperture formed in the end of the receptacle to seal the aperture; and

[0033] a flexible arm connecting the sealing member to the receptacle, wherein the flexible arm is pivotally connected to the receptacle at an end distal to the sealing member.

[0034]

[0019] Preferably, the receptacle comprises one or more receptacle members. Preferably, the receptacle comprises two or more receptacle members configured to be connected end-to-end.

[0020] In another aspect, the invention provides a one-way valve assembly for dewatering a hole or trench, configured to be connected to an end of a receptacle, the one-way valve assembly comprising:

[0035] a capping member for connection to an end of a receptacle, the capping member comprising a face portion having an aperture to allow fluid therethrough and one or more side portions extending perpendicularly from the face portion to define an internal volume;

[0036] an annular projection formed on the face portion and circumscribing the aperture; and

[0037] a valve connected to the face portion and located within the internal volume, the valve comprising:

[0038] a sealing member positioned over the aperture, the sealing member comprising an annular rim and a central circular projection spaced from the annular rim to define an annular recess; and

[0039] a flexible arm pivotally connecting the sealing member to the capping member at an end distal to the sealing member, the flexible arm being connected to the face portion at a location radially offset and / or laterally spaced from a centre of the aperture,

[0040] wherein, in a closed state, the annular rim engages the annular projection to seal the aperture,

[0041] and wherein, upon immersion of the one-way valve assembly in liquid, the sealing member is movable away from the aperture into the internal volume to permit liquid to enter the receptacle,and wherein, upon lifting the receptacle from the liquid, the sealing member returns toward the face portion under the influence of gravity to seal the aperture and retain liquid within the receptacle.

[0042]

[0021] In another aspect, the invention provides a method of dewatering a hole or trench, the method comprising:

[0043] connecting a one-way valve assembly to an end of a receptacle, the one-way valve assembly comprising a capping member having an aperture and a valve including a sealing member connected to the capping member by a flexible arm; inserting the end of the receptacle into liquid present in the hole or trench; permitting the sealing member to move away from the aperture into an internal volume of the receptacle to allow liquid to enter the receptacle through the aperture; and

[0044] withdrawing the receptacle from the liquid such that the sealing member returns to a closed position over the aperture to retain the liquid within the receptacle.

[0045] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046]

[0022] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a one-way valve assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 2 illustrates a second perspective view of the one-way valve assembly; Figure 3 illustrates the valve of the one-way valve assembly;

[0048] Figure 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the one-way valve assembly; and Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment of a capping member of the one-way valve assembly.

[0049] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0050]

[0023] Figures 1 to 3 illustrate a one-way valve assembly 1 configured to be connected to an end of a receptacle (not shown). The one-way valve assembly 1 includes a capping member 2 for connection to the end of the receptacle, with an aperture 3 to allow fluid passage.

[0051]

[0024] The capping member 2 is suitably configured to fit to an end of a receptacle, such as a PVC pipe.

[0052]

[0025] The one-way valve assembly 1 also includes a valve 4 connected to the capping member 2. The valve 4 may be constructed from rubber to provide flexibility and durability.

[0053]

[0026] The valve 4 comprises a sealing member 5 positioned over the aperture 3 and a flexible arm 6 connecting the sealing member 5 to the capping member 2.

[0054]

[0027] The sealing member 5 abuts the portion of the capping member 2 defining the aperture 3 (i.e. , the portion of the capping member 2 surrounding the aperture 3) to seal the aperture 3 and prevent fluids flowing through the aperture 3.

[0028] The sealing member 5 may include a recess. The recess, as shown in the figures, may take the form of an annular recess 7 to enhance its sealing capability. The annular recess 7 may be formed or defined by an annular rim 8 extending from and around an edge of the sealing member 5 and a central circular projection 9. The annular rim 8 abuts the portion of the capping member 2 surrounding the aperture. This can be best seen in Figure 4.

[0055]

[0029] Stated otherwise, the sealing member 5 may comprise a sealing disk having (i) an annular rim 8 projecting toward the capping member 2 and (ii) a central circular projection 9 spaced from the rim 8 to define the annular recess 7.

[0056]

[0030] In some embodiments, the sealing member and the flexible arm are integrally formed as a unitary flexible flap from a resilient material.

[0057]

[0031] The flexible arm 6 is pivotally connected to the capping member 2 at an end distal to the sealing member 5, allowing movement of the sealing member 5 in response to fluid flow.

[0058]

[0032] In operation, the sealing member may be biased toward the closed position solely by gravity when the one-way valve assembly is removed from the liquid. In such embodiments, no spring, magnetic element, or powered actuator is required to return the sealing member to the closed position.

[0059]

[0033] The one-way valve assembly may be free of springs, magnets, and powered actuators, such that opening and closing of the sealing member occurs passively in response to fluid interaction and gravity.

[0060]

[0034] The flexible arm 6 may also include one or more connecting members 10 for securing the valve 4 to the capping member 2. These connecting members 10 may project perpendicularly from the flexible arm 6, facilitating a secure attachment of the valve 4 to the capping member 2.

[0035] The capping member may comprise a body having a face portion and one or more side portions extending perpendicularly from the face portion. The valve may be connected to the face portion, and in some cases, it may be located within an internal volume or space defined by the face portion and the one or more side portions.

[0061]

[0036] The face portion may comprise a first face portion in the form of first face that is opposite a second face portion in the form of a second face. In use, and as configured, the second face is an external face.

[0062]

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, the capping member 2 is a cylindrical member having a face portion 12 and a side portion 13, in the form of a continuous side wall, extending perpendicularly therefrom. The valve 4 is connected to the face portion 12 within an internal volume or space defined by the face portion 12 and the side portion 13. This configuration of the capping member 2 allows for the capping member 2 to be fitted over an end of a receptacle, such as a PVC pipe.

[0063]

[0038] In the illustrated embodiments, the flexible arm 6 may be pivotally connected to the face portion 12 of the capping member 2 at a location spaced from the aperture 3. In particular, the pivotal connection of the flexible arm 6 to the face portion 12 may be laterally spaced and / or radially offset relative to a centre of the aperture 3, such that the sealing member 5 is configured to pivot about the connection point away from the aperture 3 and into the internal volume or space defined by the face portion 12 and the side portion 13.

[0064]

[0039] The capping member 2 may comprise PVC.

[0065]

[0040] In some embodiments, the capping member 2 may feature an annular projection 14 around the aperture 3 to improve sealing performance as illustrated in Figure 5.

[0041] The capping member 2 may include the mating annular projection 14 circumscribing the aperture 3. In a closed state, the annular rim 8 engages the mating annular projection 14 to form a fluid-tight seal, while the central circular projection 9 limits deformation and centres the seal.

[0066]

[0042] In some embodiments, there is provided a liquid collecting assembly comprising a receptacle (not shown) and the one-way valve assembly 1 removably connected to an end of the receptacle.

[0067]

[0043] The receptacle may be an elongate PVC (polyvinyl chloride) member.

[0068]

[0044] The receptacle may comprise one or more receptacle members. In some cases, the receptacle may include two or more receptacle members configured to be connected end-to-end, allowing for adjustability in length.

[0069]

[0045] In another embodiment, there is provided a liquid collecting assembly comprising a receptacle with a one-way valve assembly located at an end of the receptacle. As such, the capping member and receptacle are integrally formed with valve being located at the end of the receptacle. The one-way valve assembly includes a valve connected to the receptacle, with a sealing member positioned over an aperture at the end of the receptacle. A flexible arm connects the sealing member to the receptacle, with a pivotable connection at an end distal to the sealing member, enabling controlled movement in response to fluid pressure.

[0070]

[0046] In use, the one-way valve assembly 1 may be connected to an end of a receptacle, such as a PVC tube, to form a liquid collecting assembly. The liquid collecting assembly is lowered into a hole or trench that contains water. As the end of the assembly contacts the water, a small amount of air is trapped within the aperture between the water and the sealing member, thereby forcing the sealing member upwards as the air seeks to rise to the top of the water. This then allows thewater to enter the receptacle and be removed from the hole or trench. Upon lifting the liquid collecting assembly out of the water, the sealing member returns to its original position, forming a seal with the capping member to prevent the water from exiting back into the trench or hole through the aperture. The user can then easily remove the assembly from the hole or trench and dispose of the water.

[0071]

[0047] Embodiments of the invention provide a simple and cost-effective solution for liquid collection and transfer without the need for electrical components. By utilizing a one-way valve assembly that operates passively, the invention eliminates the risk of clogging associated with electrical pumps and significantly reduces maintenance requirements. The integration of a flexible sealing member and a capping component ensures efficient liquid flow while minimising backflow.

[0072]

[0048] Additionally, embodiments of the invention offer versatility by being compatible with standard PVC pipes and allowing for modular extensions to accommodate various depths. The absence of a power requirement makes it particularly suitable for use in remote locations where electricity is not readily available. Its lightweight and durable construction further enhance its usability, making it an ideal choice for tradespeople and others requiring reliable dewatering solutions in demanding environments.

[0073]

[0049] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. The term “comprises” and its variations, such as “comprising” and “comprised of” is used throughout in an inclusive sense and not to the exclusion of any additional features.

[0074]

[0050] It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect.

[0051] The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A one-way valve assembly for dewatering a hole or trench, the one-way valve assembly configured to be connected to an end of a receptacle, the one-way valve assembly comprising:a capping member for connection to an end of a receptacle, the capping member having an aperture to allow fluid therethrough, wherein the capping member comprises a body having a face portion and one or more side portions extending perpendicularly from the face portion;a valve connected to the capping member, wherein the valve is connected to the face portion and is located within an internal volume defined by the face portion and the one or more side portions, the valve comprising:a sealing member located over the aperture of the capping member to seal the aperture; anda flexible arm connecting the sealing member to the capping member, wherein the flexible arm is pivotally connected to the capping member at an end distal to the sealing member, wherein the flexible arm is pivotally connected to the capping member such that the sealing member is movable away from the aperture into the internal volume to permit fluid ingress.

2. The one-way valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the sealing member comprises an annular recess formed therein.

3. The one-way valve assembly of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the valve comprises rubber.

4. The one-way valve assembly of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the capping member comprises PVC (polyvinyl chloride).

5. The one-way valve assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the capping member comprises an annular projection about the aperture.

6. The one-way valve assembly of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the flexible arm comprises one or more connecting members for connecting the valve to the capping member, wherein the one or more connecting members project perpendicularly from the flexible arm.

7. A liquid collecting assembly comprising:a receptacle; anda one-way valve assembly removably connected to an end of the receptacle, wherein the receptacle and the one-way valve assembly define an internal volume for collecting liquid, the one-way valve assembly comprising:a capping member for connection to an end of a receptacle, wherein the capping member comprises a body having a face portion, one or more side portions extending perpendicularly from the face portion and an aperture to allow fluid therethrough;a valve connected to the capping member, wherein the valve is connected to the face portion of the capping member and is configured to open into the internal volume of the receptacle, the valve comprising:a sealing member located over the aperture of the capping member to seal the aperture; anda flexible arm connecting the sealing member to the capping member, wherein the flexible arm is pivotally connected to the capping member at an end distal to the sealing member, wherein the flexible arm is pivotally connected to the cappingmember such that the sealing member is movable away from the aperture into the receptacle to permit fluid ingress.

8. A liquid collecting assembly comprising:a receptacle having an internal volume for collecting liquid; and a one-way valve assembly located at an end of the receptacle, wherein the one-way valve assembly is configured to open into the receptacle, the one-way valve assembly comprising:a capping member integrally formed with the receptacle, wherein the capping member comprises a body having a face portion, one or more side portions extending perpendicularly from the face portion and an aperture to allow fluid therethrough;a valve connected to the capping member, the valve comprising:a sealing member located over an aperture formed in the end of the receptacle to seal the aperture; anda flexible arm connecting the sealing member to the receptacle, wherein the flexible arm is pivotally connected to the capping member at an end distal to the sealing member such that the sealing member is movable away from the aperture into the receptacle to permit fluid ingress.

9. The liquid collecting assembly of claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the receptacle comprises one or more receptacle members.

10. The liquid collecting assembly of any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the receptacle comprises two or more receptacle members configured to be connected end-to-end.

11. The one-way valve assembly of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the flexible arm extends from the sealing member in a direction generally parallel to the face portion of the capping member.

12. The liquid collecting assembly of any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the flexible arm extends from the sealing member in a direction generally parallel to the face portion of the capping member.

13. A one-way valve assembly for dewatering a hole or trench, configured to be connected to an end of a receptacle, the one-way valve assembly comprising:a capping member for connection to an end of a receptacle, the capping member comprising a face portion having an aperture to allow fluid therethrough and one or more side portions extending perpendicularly from the face portion to define an internal volume;an annular projection formed on the face portion and circumscribing the aperture; anda valve connected to the face portion and located within the internal volume, the valve comprising:a sealing member positioned over the aperture, the sealing member comprising an annular rim and a central circular projection spaced from the annular rim to define an annular recess; anda flexible arm pivotally connecting the sealing member to the capping member at an end distal to the sealing member, the flexible arm being connected to the face portion at a location radially offset and / or laterally spaced from a centre of the aperture,wherein, in a closed state, the annular rim engages the annular projection to seal the aperture,and wherein, upon immersion of the one-way valve assembly in liquid, the sealing member is movable away from the aperture into the internal volume to permit liquid to enter the receptacle,and wherein, upon lifting the receptacle from the liquid, the sealing member returns toward the face portion under the influence of gravity to seal the aperture and retain liquid within the receptacle.

14. A method of dewatering a hole or trench, the method comprising:connecting a one-way valve assembly to an end of a receptacle, the one-way valve assembly comprising a capping member having an aperture and a valve including a sealing member connected to the capping member by a flexible arm; inserting the end of the receptacle into liquid present in the hole or trench; permitting the sealing member to move away from the aperture into an internal volume of the receptacle to allow liquid to enter the receptacle through the aperture; andwithdrawing the receptacle from the liquid such that the sealing member returns to a closed position over the aperture to retain the liquid within the receptacle.

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