Underground MMVF Stormwater Storage With Controlled Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storm water management systems are overwhelmed by high volumes of precipitation during storms, leading to localized flooding and inefficiencies in water collection and disposal, particularly in urban areas with limited above-ground space and existing underground utilities.
Innovation Solution
A storm water management system utilizing a coherent man-made vitreous fibre module (MMVF) with an upper and lower passage, connected by a valve, allowing for underground storage and controlled release of water, integrated with a conduit and well system to manage water flow and prevent overflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If water attenuation tanks are used to store storm water, then flooding is reduced, but above ground space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the water storage function from the above-ground dimension to the underground dimension. The MMVF module is installed beneath existing pavements and roads, utilizing the subspace below the pavement level to store storm water without occupying any additional above-ground area. This dimensional shift resolves the contradiction by maintaining flood attenuation capability while eliminating the need for above-ground storage space.
Solution Approach 2:
The MMVF module is nested within the existing underground infrastructure space beneath pavements and roads. The storage system is integrated into the subsurface environment, fitting within the void space that already exists below the pavement level. This nesting approach allows the storage function to be embedded within the existing urban fabric without requiring additional above-ground footprint.
2Quantity of substance
If traditional underground storage systems are installed, then water storage capacity is achieved, but installation is complicated by existing utilities
Solution Approach 1:
The MMVF module employs a flexible, fibrous matrix structure that can be easily cut and shaped to accommodate existing underground utilities such as gas pipes, water pipes, and electrical cables. Unlike rigid concrete tanks, the flexible nature of the MMVF module allows it to be customized during installation to fit around obstructions without requiring complex excavation or utility relocation, thereby simplifying the installation process while maintaining storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The MMVF module is provided in manageable sections or segments that can be easily transported and installed. The module can be cut into smaller sections to navigate around existing utilities, and multiple sections can be joined together to achieve the required storage capacity. This segmentation approach divides the installation process into simpler, more manageable steps that can be performed in the constrained underground environment.
3Area of stationary object
If storm water is stored underground, then above ground space is freed, but control over water release is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates an intermediary control mechanism in the form of a valve system that mediates between the underground storage function and the sewer system. The valve, positioned at the outlet of the MMVF module, provides controlled release of stored water. This intermediary device enables operators to regulate the timing and rate of water discharge, maintaining ease of operation despite the underground location of the storage system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms such as water level sensors or flow monitors that provide information about the storage status and release conditions. This feedback enables automatic or semi-automatic control of the release valve, allowing the system to respond to changing conditions (such as sewer capacity or rainfall intensity) without requiring constant manual intervention, thereby maintaining ease of operation while providing precise control over water release.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively buffers storm water underground, reducing flooding risks by storing and releasing water as needed, while being adaptable to existing utilities and easy to install, maximizing space utilization and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a storage device, a first well and a valve, wherein the storage device comprises a coherent man-made vitreous fibre module (MMVF module)
Implementation Method 2
wherein the lower passage is connected to the first well by the valve
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a storm water management system comprising a first conduit, a storage device, a first well and a valve, wherein the storage device comprises a coherent man-made vitreous fibre module (MMVF module), wherein the MMVF module comprises an upper passage and a lower passage, wherein the upper passage is in fluid communication with the first conduit, and wherein the lower passage is connected to the first well by the valve.