Vertical Rainwater Storage Pipes for Space-Constrained Buildings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional water storage systems are inefficient in capturing and storing rainwater and other sources, leading to ecological and economic issues due to the overuse of treated water for non-human consumption, and they occupy valuable space, whereas rainfall levels are affected by climate change causing droughts and contamination risks.
Innovation Solution
A modular, self-supporting, and cost-effective system comprising tube-like vertical deposits with varying diameters for rainwater and other sources storage, which can be assembled into walls and fences, eliminating the need for underground deposits and elevation pumps, using PVC or other materials with interconnecting ducts for efficient water circulation and air exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional water storage systems are used, then water can be stored for consumption, but valuable space is occupied and treated water is wasted on non-human uses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from horizontal ground-level storage to vertical three-dimensional storage by positioning water tanks on rooftops. This dimensional change allows water storage without occupying valuable ground space, resolving the contradiction between storage capacity and space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The rooftop structure serves multiple functions: it provides the building's structural form, captures rainwater through integrated gutters, stores water in elevated tanks, and facilitates automatic distribution. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated storage spaces.
2Ease of operation
If treated water is used to wash sidewalks and vehicles, then cleaning needs are met, but ecological impact increases and treated water is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the parameter of water quality by providing two distinct water sources: treated water for human consumption and captured rainwater for non-consumptive uses like cleaning. This parameter differentiation allows appropriate water usage that reduces ecological impact while maintaining cleaning capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different water qualities to different uses: treated water is reserved for drinking and cooking, while captured rainwater is used for washing sidewalks, vehicles, and gardening. This local quality assignment optimizes resource allocation and minimizes ecological harm.
3Quantity of substance
If rainwater is captured and stored without precautions, then water availability increases, but contamination risks arise
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts and separates the water capture function from direct consumption. Rainwater is captured, stored separately in dedicated tanks, and automatically distributed only for non-consumptive uses, eliminating the need for complex treatment and safety precautions while maintaining water availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary automatic distribution system that manages water flow between the captured rainwater storage and various usage points. This intermediary mechanism ensures proper water management and prevents contamination by maintaining separate pathways for different water uses.
4Quantity of substance
If underground deposits and elevation pumps are used, then water storage is achieved, but system complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions water storage tanks at the highest point (rooftop), creating a gravity-based equipotential system. Water stored at elevation naturally flows down to all usage points through gravity alone, eliminating the need for complex elevation pumps and pressure regulation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the storage function with the building's rooftop structure itself, integrating water tanks into the architectural form. This combination eliminates the need for separate underground deposits and surface-level storage facilities, reducing overall system complexity.
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
This system allows for efficient rainwater and other sources storage without occupying valuable space, reducing the need for treated water usage, minimizing ecological impact, and providing a sustainable solution for water scarcity issues during droughts.
Implementation Method 1
tube-like vertical deposits with varied and adequate diameters to facilitate both assembly and construction of walls and fences, being self-supporting
Implementation Method 2
vertical cylindrical pipes (2) are based on the principle of communicating vases whose bases are interconnected by means of interconnecting ducts (7)
Data Source
AI summary
The object of the present patent comprises an innovative system for harvesting runoff from rainwater and other sources, basically comprising tube-like vertical deposits with varied and adequate diameters to facilitate both assembly and construction of walls and fences, being self-supporting, modular, cost-effective, either built-in or surface-installed, being formed basically by vertical cylindrical pipes (2), preferably standard PVC water pipes, with the possibility of using metal or polymer sleeves along their lengths or applying an inner lining with fiber glass or any other material aimed at increasing the strength of large diameter pipes.