Modular Rainwater Storage Units with Reinforced Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rainwater storage systems, particularly in urban areas, face challenges such as inefficient space utilization, aesthetic concerns, and high installation costs due to the use of cylindrical tanks, which are not modularly scalable and prone to deformation under hydrostatic pressure.
Innovation Solution
A storage system comprising a body with an inner and outer frame, where the frames are reinforced through kiss-off features formed during casting, allowing for modular scalability and aesthetic customization, with a piping system for connecting units and cladding options to enhance appearance and structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If cylindrical tanks are used for rainwater storage, then the walls can resist deformation due to hydrostatic load, but the tanks occupy a larger space compared to cubical or rectangular tanks
Solution Approach 1:
The storage tank is divided into multiple modular units that can be connected together. Each unit has a compact shape (cubical or rectangular) rather than cylindrical, allowing efficient space utilization while maintaining structural integrity through the modular design and connection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple storage units are arranged and connected in a nested or stacked configuration, allowing them to occupy less overall space while providing cumulative storage capacity. The units can be positioned vertically or horizontally to optimize space usage in urban environments.
2Volume of moving object
If cubical or rectangular tanks with straight walls are used, then space utilization is improved, but the straight walls are prone to deformation due to hydrostatic pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The tank is segmented into multiple smaller modular units connected together. Each unit maintains a compact cubical or rectangular shape for efficient space utilization, while the segmented design reduces the overall surface area subjected to hydrostatic pressure compared to a single large tank.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage units utilize composite construction methods, combining rigid wall materials with reinforcement structures. The walls are made from materials that provide both the desired compact geometric shape and sufficient strength to resist hydrostatic pressure deformation.
3Reliability
If conventional plastic rainwater tanks are installed in urban back yards, then rainwater capture is achieved, but aesthetics and high installation cost deter people from installing them
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the storage system have different qualities - the functional components (connection points, inlet/outlet structures) are optimized for rainwater capture, while the external surfaces are designed with aesthetic considerations such as pleasant colors, textures, and geometric patterns to blend with urban environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows for easier installation compared to large conventional tanks. Multiple smaller units can be installed incrementally, reducing the need for heavy lifting equipment and complex installation procedures, thereby lowering installation costs and improving ease of manufacture.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage system comprising one or more storage units having a body comprising an inner frame, and an outer frame defining an inner space, at least one portion of the inner frame being located within the inner space defined by the outer frame, wherein at least one or more particular portions of the inner and outer frame are adapted to be attached to each other providing reinforcement to at least some portions of the outer frame. The body of the storage unit comprises walls and a roof attached to each other for defining an inner space within the body, the walls and the roof comprising indentations extending into the inner space, wherein the indentations define counterpart fastening means for receiving fastening means. There is also provided a bracket system for attachment to the counterpart fastening means permitting attaching cladding to the walls of the storage units.