Storm Water Storage System with Void Channels and MMVF Buffer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storm water storage and collection systems are disruptive to install, requiring extensive excavation and connection of multiple pipes, leading to local flooding and disruption of residential and industrial areas.
Innovation Solution
A storm water storage system comprising a storm water collection well with void channels and a man-made vitreous fibre buffer system bonded with a cured binder, allowing rapid water absorption and infiltration into the ground, eliminating the need for extensive pipework and simplifying installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional storm water storage systems with multiple pipes are installed, then water drainage capacity is improved, but installation complexity and disruption to the area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the collection well and buffer system into a single integrated unit, eliminating the need for separate pipe connections. The buffer system is positioned to receive water directly from the collection well through integrated void channels, merging what were previously separate components into one cohesive structure that simplifies installation while maintaining drainage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces void channels as an intermediary structure between the collection well and buffer system. These channels provide a direct water flow path without requiring traditional pipe connections, acting as a mediator that enables water transfer while eliminating the complexity of pipe installation and joining operations.
2Quantity of substance
If traditional storm water storage systems are installed, then water storage capacity is improved, but installation time and disruption to residents increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated design combines the collection well and buffer system into one unit that can be installed as a single structure. This eliminates the time-consuming process of installing separate pipes and making multiple connections, reducing installation time while maintaining the same water storage capacity through the unified buffer system.
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer system is pre-positioned and integrated with the collection well during manufacturing or pre-assembly, so that when installed on site, the entire water storage and collection functionality is immediately available without requiring subsequent pipe connections or assembly steps that would extend installation time.
3Productivity
If extensive pipework is used for storm water collection, then water transport capability is improved, but ease of installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The void channels serve as an intermediary water transport structure that eliminates the need for traditional pipework. These channels provide efficient water flow from the collection well to the buffer system while being integrated into the single-unit structure, maintaining water transport capability while dramatically improving ease of installation by eliminating pipe joining operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The water transport function previously requiring separate pipes is merged into the integrated structure of the collection well and buffer system. The void channels are formed as part of the unified structure, combining the transport function with the storage and collection functions in a way that simplifies installation while maintaining hydraulic performance.
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 prevents localized flooding by quickly storing and releasing storm water, minimizing installation time and disruption while promoting a healthier soil environment.
Implementation Method 1
The water will afterwards have to be distributed from the large inlet pipes to several smaller pipes, before it can enter the mineral wool elements of the infiltration system
Implementation Method 2
The water can subsequently flow to water drainage points. In some cases, the buffered water may be allowed to dissipate into the surrounding ground once it is dry enough
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a storm water storage system comprising: - a storm water collection well (1) having at least one inlet (2), (9) for storm water to enter the storm water collection well (1); and one or more outlets (3) for storm water to exit the storm water collection well (1); - one or more void channels (4) each having a bottom surface, an upper surface and side surfaces, wherein each void channel extends away from and is in fluid communication with at least one outlet (3) and has a width in the range of 20 cm to 200 cm; - a storm water buffer system (5) comprising man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF) bonded with a cured binder composition, wherein the storm water buffer system encloses and is in fluid communication with at least one side surface of the one or more void channels (4); - a lid (6) positioned on top of the storm water buffer system (5) such that the upper surface of the void channel is formed by the lid (6).