Modular Stormwater Retention System Void Space Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional storm water retention systems face challenges due to limited spatial configuration, high costs, and inefficiencies caused by the need for large amounts of porous materials like stones, which occupy significant void space and require extensive equipment for installation.
Innovation Solution
A modular storm water containment system featuring domed, four-legged conduit units that can be connected to form self-standing structures, reducing the need for porous backfill materials and allowing for flexible geometric configurations, thereby maximizing void space for water retention and diffusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional stone backfill materials are used in storm water retention systems, then structural support and filtration are provided, but void space is reduced by 60-70% and installation costs increase due to heavy equipment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the retention structure into multiple modular chambers that can be independently configured. These chambers are arranged to maximize void space utilization while maintaining structural integrity through the modular design, eliminating the need for extensive stone backfill.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs porous retaining walls and chamber structures that provide both structural support and filtration functions. The porous nature of these components allows water infiltration while maintaining structural strength, replacing the need for heavy stone backfill materials.
2Reliability
If large amounts of porous material like stones are used, then filtration and structural support are achieved, but installation time and equipment requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system is segmented into pre-fabricated modular chambers that can be quickly assembled on-site. This modular approach eliminates the time-consuming process of transporting and installing large quantities of stone backfill materials while maintaining effective filtration through the chamber designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular chambers are designed to be self-supporting and self-filtering structures that do not require extensive external stone backfill for structural stability or filtration functionality. The chambers themselves provide the necessary filtration and structural support, reducing installation complexity and time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If irregular site configurations are encountered, then spatial constraints are imposed, but the ability to maximize water retention volume is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses modular chambers that can be arranged in various configurations to adapt to irregular site shapes. The chambers can be positioned, oriented, and connected in different patterns to maximize void space utilization and water retention volume while accommodating the specific spatial constraints of each site.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular chambers can be arranged in three-dimensional configurations, utilizing vertical and lateral spaces to maximize water retention volume. This dimensional flexibility allows the system to adapt to irregular site configurations while maintaining optimal retention capacity.
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 modular system enhances storm water retention capabilities, reduces installation costs, and minimizes the use of porous materials, allowing for efficient water collection and diffusion while accommodating irregular site configurations.
Implementation Method 1
serve as a storm water retention chamber for the gradual diffusion of stormwater runoff through the soil column which recharges the aquafer system
Data Source
AI summary
A modular storm water retention system and method for exemplary uses collecting and temporarily retaining storm water run-off. The system includes a plurality of modular retaining units which are selectively connected together to form an interior chamber volume for collecting storm water run-off directed into the chamber volume. A plurality of modular trays are engaged with the top portions of the respective retention units to prevent relative movement of the retention units and eliminate, or substantially reduce, the need for porous material to be installed in and around the retention units greatly increasing the excavation void space usable for water collection and retention. The trays further support the backfill material and prevent passage of the backfill material into the void space below the trays.