Elliptical Storm-Pod Sidewalls for Load Distribution and Root Growth
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underground storm-water management systems face issues with structural integrity due to perpendicular load distribution, lack of space for tree roots, and inadequate fluid communication, as they rely on block-type modules with planar surfaces.
Innovation Solution
The system employs elliptically-contoured sidewall members with reinforcing members and end flanges to disperse loads, create a hyperbolic pathway for root growth, and ensure fluid communication between pod members, allowing for modular, customizable, and efficient storm water collection and filtration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If block-type modules with planar surfaces are used, then manufacturing and assembly are simplified, but structural integrity deteriorates due to perpendicular load concentration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by transitioning from planar block-type modules to pod members with elliptically-contoured sidewalls. This curved geometry allows load forces to be distributed along the extended sidewall area rather than concentrated perpendicular to flat surfaces, thereby improving structural integrity while maintaining manufacturability through modular design
2Weight of stationary object
If pod members are made lighter, then installation cost is reduced, but structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs reinforced concrete as a composite material system, combining concrete with steel reinforcement. This allows the pod members to achieve high structural strength-to-weight ratio, enabling lighter weight construction while maintaining the required structural integrity for stormwater management applications
3Device complexity
If planar block modules are used, then fluid communication between modules is simplified, but space for root growth is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The elliptically-contoured sidewalls create curved interfaces between adjacent pod members, forming hyperbolic pathways that provide sufficient space for tree roots to grow and expand. This curved geometry maintains relatively simple fluid communication while accommodating biological growth requirements
Data Source
AI summary
Applicant's underground storm-pod structure is directed to a system for collecting and utilizing storm-water. A pod structure includes at least one pod member. This pod member's structure is defined by sidewall members, end flanges, sidewall interfacing members, an upper section base member, reinforcing members, and a slab member. The sidewall member and the end flange form an opening. A retention chamber formed within the pod member is structured to store liquid. Weep holes formed through the sidewall members permit liquid to flow between a partially-elliptically-shaped pathway and a corresponding chamber. The liquid retention chamber can be in further communication with an outlet mechanism, which is itself in communication with an external environment. In one embodiment, adjacent pod members are fixedly coupled with respect to each other by coupling corresponding flange members.