WO2010060147A1

WO2010060147A1 - Fluid storage containers and method of assembly of same

Info

Publication number: WO2010060147A1
Application number: PCT/AU2009/001548
Authority: WO
Inventors: Paul Goodrick
Original assignee: Paul Goodrick
Priority date: 2008-11-27
Filing date: 2009-11-27
Publication date: 2010-06-03

Abstract

A container module for a portable fluid storage system comprising a number of co operating storage modules; the tank modules each including a base, a top and module wall defining an inner storage space, each module having connecting means which allows detachable engagement between modules, such that when the modules are attached, the inner storage spaces are in communication with each other, thereby enabling the fluid storage system to function as one larger storage tank comprising a plurality of said tank modules.

Description

FLUTD STORAGE CONTAINERS AND METHOD OF ASSEMBLY OF SAME RACKGROUND

This present invention relates to fluid storage and more particularly relates to portable modular fluid storage containers which are capable of inter engagement for storage Stacking and for space economy.

More particularly, the present invention further relates to modular fluid storage containers which can co operate to form a larger storage vessel formed by at least two of said containers. The invention further relates to a container having a wall defining an internal space which is in communication with a conduit that allows two or more containers to be assembled so that an internal space of one container communicates with an internal space of another container.

The invention further provides a method of fluid storage using at least two co operating containers which co operate to form a larger tank formed by the at least two containers. The invention further relates to a method of assembly of a plurality of co operating containers wherein when the containers are assembled the internal space in each container is in fluid communication with the internal space of at leat one adjacent containers to minimise a footprint created by each said co operating containers. PRIOR ART

There are in existence a variety of fluid storage tanks of various sizes and configurations. Water storage tanks presently come in a variety of types, shap&s and sizes usually made from plastics or steel and having a wall defining an internal space in which fluid is held. There is a growing need for improved containment systems for water storage and to provide more efficient means for storage to enable consumers of water to supplement or substitute town water supplies to relieve demands on network supply. There is a pressing need for consumers to become self sufficient with respect to water consumption. Increasingly, stringent environmental regulations necessitate water restrictions to conserve this increasingly limited resource. Additionally, in many industrial procedures water is heavily used and in many cases wasted. Often this wastage is due to the absence of satisfactory means to produce decontaminated water for recycling or the absence of convenient storage tanks or storage space.

There is a long felt want for a convenient means for provision of modular storage tanks which can be site assembled and particularJy for water storage to avoid the inconvenience of installations of heavy prefabricated tanks which are expensive to transport, lift and install. Currently, water tanks are delivered fully constructed to the storage sizes required. For larger storage tanks such as those over say 200 litres one person cannot satisfactorily perform the installation. Thus, installation of tanks over ■ 200 li_tres is labour intensive contributing to the overall cost of the installation. Since the demand for tanks particularly in domestic installations is increasing, there is a need to provide a method to enable self installation of tanks which can provide a wide variety of large and small storage requirements. There is also a need to provide fluid storage containers which are easily transportable, lightweight, easy to install and which can be assembled to form a larger tank assembly of almost any size and in locations where access is difficult or ground space limited. This is also a long felt want to provide fluid storage containers which have a shape and geometry which enables stacking so that no storage space is lost when the containers are stacked for fluid storage.

INVENTION

The present invention seeks to improve the prior art arrangements and provide . according to one form a fluid tank storage assembly and method for installation of such storage tanks. The invention further provides a method to enable self installation of tanks to facilitate a wide variety of large and small storage requirements including storage tanks which are easily transportable, lightweight, easy to install and which can be assembled to form a tank assembly of almost any size. The invention provides portable modular fluid storage tanks which co operate to form a larger tank . The present invention further provides modular fluid storage units each including a wall which defines an internal closed space to form a multi module tank formed by at least two modules. The invention also provides a method of fluid storage using at last two co operating tank modules which co operate to form a larger tank formed by the modules. The invention further provides a method of transportation of modules which are stackable during transportation and which when coupled together provide water storage each with interconnecting passages.

The invention further provides a fluid storage container which has a geometry and shape which allows mutual stacking of such containers so that no storage space is wasted and so that the number of containers which can be stored is maximised for a given volume of storage space.

In one form of the invention a plurality of container modules are disposed side by side. An important advantage of this aspect of the invention is that the containment system can be erected very quickly, and can be located inside a building or outdoors.

The modules are sections of a predetermined size, preferably hollow and of high strength plastic material, with each module having joining means preferably at a peripheral edge. When assembled and disassembled, the projection of one module snugly fits beside another module for stacking puiposes.

The container modules are preferably manufactured from a plastics material and are preferably hollow, equipped with a closable opening so the modules may be kept empty so that they are light in weight and easy to handle. After the container modules are arranged they arc filled with fluid. Preferably, each module is of like shape so that the modules can engage another module of like shape. The individual modules are preferably triangular with a small footprint compared to the overall mass of the modules. The resulting assembly may be b a variety of shapes. An ^'advantage of the preferred form of the invention is that the tanks may be installed in spaces such as narrow openings in which conventional tanks which are not modular would not fit.

In one preferred embodiment of the invention the plastic modules have a width which is substantially smaller than the overall height of each module. Preferably the width of the base on a container module is less than half the height of the containers. The tanks arc highly stable once installed and connected to adjacent tanks. According to this arrangement the base or footprint of the tank modules are generally less than the height.

When each module is filled with water, the module becomes more stable and resistant Io tipping forces. It is a primary purpose of the present invention to provide a modular containment system employing tank modules which can be assembled by one person into an interconnecting series of tanks so that a plurality of tank modules can be assembled to form a large tank which can receive water from one source or a plurality of sources. The individual tank modules when interlinked, can be disassembled and reassembled easily by one person.

In its broadest form the present invention comprises: a portable fluid storage system comprising co operating tank modules; the modules each including a top, a base and module wall defining an inner storage;

each tank module including connecting means which enables connection of one said tank modules to an adjacent module associated with the wall which allow detachable engagement between modules, such that when the tajik modules are attached, the internal space? of the modules are in communication with the internal spaces of adjacent modules such that fluid derived from one fluid source is capable of falling all tank modules via one source.

According to a preferred embodiment, each tank module has the same shape so that a potentially unlimited number of the tank modules can be joined to form a large tank. Preferably, the tank modules have a small foot print compared to their height, so thai high storage volume can be achieved with a relatively small foot print. This advantage is useful where there is limited ground space to locate a tank or in a location of difficult access where large storage is required but the available space inaccessible.

In another broad form the present invention comprises-

a tank module for a portable fluid storage system comprising at least two co operating modules; the tank modules each including a base, a top and module wall defining an inner storage space, each module having connecting means which allows detachable engagement between modules, such that when the modules are attached, the inner storage spaces are in communication with each other thereby enabling the fluid storage system to function as one larger storage tank comprising a plurality of said tank modules.

According to a preferred embodiment, each tank module has a triangular shape and engages an opposing face of an adjacent module, which allows the lank modules to be arranged in alignment. The triangular arrangement avoids space wastage so that maximum storage may be achieved for the footprint area available.

According to one embodiment, said means to allow detachable engagement between modules comprises alignment of an opening on one tank module with a fastener such as a bolt which may be integrally attached to an adjacent module. Alternatively, the means to allow detachable engagement between modules comprises alignment of an opening on one tank module with another opening or recess on an opposing face of an adjacent module, wherein the openings receive a fastener such as a bolt or screw which may be passed through the opening on a first module tank until it engages the recess in the adjacent tank.

The storage system of the present invention tanks may be dismantled after use for future transportation by separation of each tank module.

In another broad form the present invention comprises: a portable fluid storage tank system comprising at least two triangular tank modules: die tank modules including a base, a top and a wall which defines an internal storage space; the tank modules are arranged so that opposing faces engage to allow the tank modules to be fastened together to enable them to co operate as a single tank with mutual communication between the internal storage spaces.

In another broad form the present invention comprises: _t

a fluid storage container system comprising a series of tike fluid storage containers each including a top, a base and wall defining an inner storage space; wherein, the wall comprises at least three faces forming a wall shape which enables one container when stacked adjacent a wall face of at least one other like container to form a shape having at least four sides.

Preferably means are provided on each module to enable (sealing) connection of at least two modules enabling the internal space in each module to co operate in forming a fluid storage space.

In its broadest form the present invention comprises¹ a portable fluid storage container including a top, a base and wall defining an inner storage space; wherein, the wall comprises at least three faces forming a wall shape which enables one container when stacked adjacent a wall face of at least one other like container to form a shape having at least four sides.

According to a method aspect the present invention comprises a method of installation of modular tanks for fluid storage. The method comprises the steps of providing at an installation site a plurality of tank modules which are configured to co operate to collectively form a larger storage tank assembly such that when the modules are interconnected the voids in each module are Ln communication with voids 1 another module

The tank modules are stackable for transportation and storage prior to assembly or after disassembly. According to a preferred embodiment, each module is shaped so that one tank module can nest and stack with another module for transportation. In this way a large number of tank modules may be stacked for transportation and assembled on site in limited spaces, and where access would otherwise be difficult with a larger pre manufactured tank. The tank modules of the present invention allows for self assembly by a user even where a large tank is required as potentially any number of tank modules can be assembled according to storage volume required. Smaller modular tanks wliich are prefabricated can be purchased by the home handyman or do it yourself assembler eliminating the need for heavy lifting devices either for removal from trucks on delivery or at the assembly site.

Each module is formed from relatively lightweight materials with hollow interior, Buch as plastics or steel and with a stable cross section to resist flexure of the individual modules when isolated and the tank when assembled.

In a broad form of a method aspect the present invention comprises: a method of installation of modular tanks for fluid storage, wherein each said tank comprises: a top, a base and wall defining an inner storage space; wherein, the wall comprises at least three faces forming a wall shape which enables one tank when stacked adjacent a wall face of at least one other like modular tank to form a shape having at least four sides; the method comprising the steps of;

a) setting a first module in a first location; b) taking a second module and placing it adjacent the first module so that one face of the first module opposes one face of the second module.

Other objects and features of the invention will become apparent as the description proceeds, especially when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings illustrating the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The present invention will now be described according to a preferred but non limiting embodiment and with reference to the accompanying illustrations: wherein Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a tank module according to a preferred embodiment.

Figure 2 shows a plan view of the module of figure 1.

Figure 3 shows a front perspective assembled view of an assembly of co operating tank modules according to a preferred embodiment. Figure 4 shows the assembly of figure 3 from a rear perspective.

Figure 5 shows an elevation view of a tank module from one face.

Figure 6 shows an elevation view of the tank module of figure 5 from another face rotated J 20 degrees.

Figure 7 shows an elevation view of the tank module of figure 5 from another face rotated a further 120 degrees.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Although the container modules and the assemblies constructed lherefrom will be described primarily with reference to their use as water tanks, it will be appreciated that the tank modules end assemblies enables by the present invention may be used in other storage applications including fluids other than water or flowable solids. For example, the containers can be used as drink and beverage bottles with the capacity to stack in a box so that there is little or no wasted space between containers when the containers are stacked.

Referring to figure 1 there is shown a perspective view of tank moduje 1 according to a preferred embodiment Module 1 includes a top 2, a base 3 and module^' walls faces 4, 8 and 9 defining an inner storage space 5. Each tank module 1 includes connecting means 6 (see figure 3) which enables connection of one said tank modules to an adjacent module associated with the wall and which can also allow detachable- engagement between modules, such that when the tank modules are attached, the internal spaces of the modules are in communication with the internal spaces of adjacent modules such that fluid derived from one fluid source is capable of filling all tank modules via one source. Typically connector 6 will be a screw or bolt which passes lrom one module to an adjacent module. It will be appreciated that each module can also be filled separately as required. Preferably the internal space of each tank module is in communication with an adjacent tank module via connecting pipes which also function to secure one tank module to another tank module. According to a preferred embodiment, each tank module has the same shape so that a potentially unlimited number of the tank modules can be joined to form a large tank. Preferably, the tank modules have a small foot print compared to their height, so that high storage volume can be achieved with a relatively small foot print Typically the width of the base will be less than half the height but approximates one quarter of the overall height. This advantage is useful where there is limited ground space to locate a tank or in a location of difficult access where large storage is required but the available space inaccessible. Module 1 further comprises strengtlierung ribs 7 which arc preferably spaced closer together at the base of the module compared to the rib spacing the lop of the module. Module I also comprises an opening 16 at the top and opeuing 17 at the bottom of wall 9 which receive fasteners ( not shown) to secure module 1 to two adjacent modules as shown in figure 4. Module 1 also includes openings 18 and 19 which also receive a fastener to secure module 1 to adjacent fasteners in a similar manner to that shown in figure 3. Figure 2 shows with. corresponding numbering, a plan view of the container module of figure 1 indicating top 2 and wall 4.

Figure 3 shows a front perspective assembled view of an assembly of co operating tank modules 10, U and 12 according to one assembled arrangement. Module 10 includes a top 13. a base 14 and module wall 15 having faces 15a, 15b and 15c deftoing an inner storage space which holds fluid such as but not limited to water. Tank module 10 includes fastening bolt 6 which enables connection of module 10 to module 1 1 and module 11 to module 12. The internal spaces of the modules are in fluid communication with the internal spaces of adjacent modules such that fluid derived from one source such as roof runoff is capable of filling all tank modules from that one source. Once each said tank modules 10 and 11 are connected to each other, the inner storage spaces are in communication with each other thereby enabling the fluid storage system to function as one larger storage tank comprising a plurality of said tank modules. Module l \ includes a top 20, a base 21 and module wall having faces 22, 23 and 24 defining an inner fluid storage space.. Tank module 11 includes engages bolt 6 which enables connection of module 11 to module 12. Module 12 includes wall faces 25, 26 and 27. Wall face opposes wall face 24 of module 11. A storage object is formed with outer faces disposed in four planes. The internal spaces of the modules are in fluid communication with the internal spaces of adjacent modules such that fluid derived from one source such as roof runoff is capable of filling all tank modules from that one source. Figure 4 shows with corresponding numbering, the assembly of figure 3 from a rear perspective with corresponding numbering. It may be seen from figures 3 and 4 that the total area of the cross sections or bases of modules 10. 11 and 12 approximates the ground footprint taken up by the tanks. Tn oilier words almost the whole of the ground footprint represents fluid storage space. In conventional tanks shapes, placing tanks side by side are at least adjacent to each other takes up a greater ground footprint that the total base area of the tanks. This is due to the shapes of the tanks which do not nest for optimal space economy. In the case for instance of two circular tanks placed side by side, the ground footprint must be one dimension of two diameters by another dimension of one diameter which defines a rectangle. In this case, the base area of circular tanks is significantly less than the ground area required to accommodate the tanks The present invention when used as modular tanks are able to nest for optimal space economy. This is particularly advantageous when maximum storage is required in a tight, confined and limited space. A use can elect to use, one or a plurality of storage modules depending upon the compromise available between available space and storage requirements. When the modules are used as drink bottles, this same advantage can be used for stacking a plurality of bottles in a box for transport aud carriage. When circular bottles are stacked in a square or rectangular box, the base area of circular bottles is significantly less than the ground area inside a box required to accommodate the bottles. Thus by using the modules as bottjes more fluid can be stored per unit area and volume.

Figure 5 shows with corresponding numbering an elevation view of tank module 1 viewed from face 4. Figure 6 shows with corresponding numbering an elevation view of tank module 1 rotated 120 degrees and viewed from face 9. Figure 7 shows with corresponding numbering an elevation view of tank module 1 rotated a further 120 degrees and viewed from face 8.

According to a preferred embodiment, each tank module has a triangular shape and engages an opposing face of an adjacent module, which allows the tank modules to be arranged in alignment The triangular arrangement avoids space wastage so that maximum storage may be achieved for the footprint area available.

Although the figures show tank modules which are triangular, it will be appreciated that many shapes may be adopted for the modules. This allows the inventive concept to be applied in a variety of installations which will adopt shapes suitable for the site at which the tank modules are installed. Where three triangular storage modules are used the resultant shape is trapezoidal.

According to an alternative embodiment, the shape of the tank modules may be selected from polygonal, hexagonal, rectangular, square or circular.

According to a preferred embodiment,, detachable engagement between modules is enabled by removing connecting pipes Alternatively, the means to allow detachable engagement between modules comprises alignment of an opening on one tank module with another opening or recess on an opposing face of an adjacent module, wherein the openings receive a fastener such as a bolt or screw which may be passed through the opening on a first module tank until it engages the recess in the adjacent tank.

The water storage system incorporating tank modules may be dismantled after use for future transportation by separation of each tank module.

The tank modules 10 , 1 1 and 12 are stackablc for transportation and storage prior to assembly or after disassembly. According to a preferred embodiment, each module is shaped so that one tank module can nest and stack with another module for transportation. In this way a large number of tank modules may be stacked for transportation and assembled on site in limited spaces, and where access would otherwise be difficult with a larger pre manufactured tank. The tank modules 10, U and 12 allow for. self assembly by a user even where a large tank is required as potentially any number of tank modules can be assembled according to storage volume required.

As the system uses multiple tank modules a storage tank can be constructed on a narrow tract so that the finished tank comprising the tank modules is elongated. The finished assembly can be configured to suit almost any installation site and may for instance travel along a narrow corridor between buildings.

Each module is formed from relatively lightweight materials with hollow interior, such as plastics or steel and with a stable cross section to resist flexure of the individual modules when isolated and the tank when assembled. Ribs may be included to stiffen and strengthen the faces of the module in transit and when under load internally and externally.

The arrangements described above comprising co operating modules, provide a portable fluid storage system which allows detachable engagement between modules, such that when tbe modules are attached fluid may be stored in an inner space of each module. Modules are preferably constructed so as to nest in an adjacent like or complimentary tank module in situ or for stacking during transportation. Tt will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that other methods of inter engagement may be employed.

U The tank modules may be any one of a potentially unlimited number of shapes and it will be appreciated that those described herein are merely examples of possible tank module shapes.

Since one tank module can nest and/ot stack with another module for transportation, a large number of tank modules can be transported and unloaded conveniently, providing a significant advantage over the prior art which requires large size single unit tanks. . The examples referred to herein are illustrative and are not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the invention. While various embodiments of the invention have been described herein, it will be appreciated that these are capable of modification, and therefore the disclosures herein are not to be construed as limiting of the precise details set forth, but to avail such changes and alterations as fall within the purview of the description .

It will therefore be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and modifications may be made to the invention described herein without departing from the overall spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1 A fluid storage container system comprising a series of like fluid storage containers each including a top, a base and wall defining an inner storage space; wherein, the wall comprises at least three faces forming a wall shape which enables one container when stacked adjacent a wall face of at least one other like container to form a shape having at least four sides.

2 A container system according to claim 1 wherein the containers are water storage tanks

3 A container system according to claim 2 wherein each tank has the same shape so that a potentially unlimited number of the tank modules can be joined to form a larger tank formed from interconnected modules.

4 A container system according to claim 3 wherein each of the tanks has a footprint width which is less than half the height of the tank.

5 A container system according to claim 4 wherein, each container wall comprises at least three faces forming a wall shape which enables one container when stacked adjacent to and opposing a wall face of at least one other like container to form a shape having at least four external sides.

6 A container system according .to claim 5 wherein each container includes connecting means which enables detachable connection of one said container to an adjacent like container such that when the containers are attached, the internal spaces of the modules are in communication with the internal spaces of adjacent containers such that fluid derived from one fluid source is capable of filling all containers vja one source.

7 A container system according to claim 6 wherein the at least four externa) sides formed by the at least two stacked adjacent containers are each disposed in a different plane. 8 A container system according to claim 7 wherein at least two of the sides are parallel.

9 A container system according to claim 8 wherein, when there are six containers stacked against each other, a hexagon having six external sides is formed, wherein each said external sides are disposed in six different planes.

10 A container system according to claim 9 wherein three of the six planes are parallel to one of the three other plane.

11 A container system according to claim 10 wherein when twelve like containers are stacked against each other, a polygonal object is formed with external faces in six planes.

12 A container system according to claim 11 wherein tbe container is a water tank.

13 A container system according to claim 12 wherein, when a predetermined number of containers are stacked together, the footprint area taken up by the predetermined number of containers is substantially the same as the collective base area of the containers.

14 A container module for a portable fluid storage system comprising at least two co operating storage modules; the tank modules each including a base, a top and module wall defining an inner storage space, each module having connecting means which allows detachable engagement between modules, such that when the modules are attached, the inner storage spaces are in communication with each other, thereby enabling the fluid storage system to function as one larger storage tank comprising a plurality of said tank modules.

15 A container module according to claim 14 wherein each tank module forming the fluid storage system has a triangular shape and engages an opposing face of an adjacent module, which allows the tank modules to be arranged in alignment. The triangular arrangement avoids space wastage so that maximum fluid storage may be achieved for the ground footprint area available. 16 A container module according to claim 15 wherein, said means to allow detachable engagement between modules comprises insertion of a fastener through an opening in one module into an aligned opening in an adjacent module

17 A container module according to claim 16 wherein the fastener is a bolt which may be integrally attached to one said modules.

18 A portable fluid storage container including a top, a base and wall defining an inner storage space; wherein, the wall comprises at least three faces forming a wall shape which enables one container when stacked adjacent a wall face of at least one other like container to form a shape having at least four sides. 19 A portable fluid storage container according to claim 18 wherein the at least four sides are each in a different plane.

20 A portable fluid storage container according to claim 19 wherein, at least two of the sides are parallel

21 Λ portable fluid storage container according to claim 20 wherein, when there are six containers stacked against each other, a polygon having six external sides is formed in six different planes.

22 A portable fluid storage container according to claim 21 wherein three of the six planes are parallel to the one other plane of the three other planes.

23 A portable fluid storage container according to claim 22 wherein, when there are twelve like containers stacked against each other, a polygonal object is formed with external faces in four planes.

24 Λ portable fluid storage container according to claim 23 wherein when there are twenty four like containers stacked against each other a square object is formed with external faces in four planes.

25 A portable fluid storage container according to claim 24 wherein the container is used as a drinks container, wherein the fluid is a drink.

26 A portable fluid storage container according to claim 25 wherein, when a predetermined number of containers are stacked in a single carry container, the area taken up by the total base area of said predetermined number of containers is substantially the same as a minimum area defined by walls of the single carry container.

27 A method of installation of modular tanks for fluid storage, wherein each said tank comprises: a top, a base and wall defining an inner storage space; wherein, the wall comprises at least three faces forming a wall shape which enables one tank when stacked adjacent a wall face of at least one other like modular tank to form a shape having at least four sides; tbe method comprising the steps of;

a) setting a first module in a first location;

b) taking a second module and placing it adjacent the first module so that one face of the first module opposes one face of the second module.

28 A method according to claim 27 comprising the lurther step of ; c) taking other module and placing the module adjacent the first or second modules to form a composite tank shape having external faces disposed in four planes.

29 A method according to claim 28 comprising the further step of; taking a plurality of tank modules and placing each one adjacent another tank module to form a composite tank of a predetermined shape.

30 A method according to claim 29- comprising the further step of fastening each tank to an adjacent tank before the next tank module is added.

31 A method according to claim 30 comprising the further step of interconnecting the internal space of one module with an internal space of an adjacent module before one module is fastened to an adjacent module.

32 A method according to claim 31 wherein the tank modules are stackable for transportation and storage prior to assembly or after disassembly.

33 A method according to claim 32 wherein each module is shaped so that one tank module can nest and stack with another module for transportation. 34 A method according to claim 33 wherein each module is formed with a hollow interior from relatively lightweight materials, selected from plastics and with a stable cross section to resist flexure of the individual modules when isolated.

35 A container module according to claim 17 wherein the walls of the module include stiffening ribs.

36 A container according to claim 35 wherein the stiffening ribs are disposed closer together at the bottom of the container than at the top.

37 A container according to claim 36 wherein a spacing between the ribs increases incrementally and gradually from the bottom of die container module to the top.

38 A portable fluid storage container according to claim 26, wherein stiffening ribs are disposed on the wall of the container.

39 A container according to claim 38 wherein a spacing between the ribs increases incrementally and gradually Jϊom the bottom of the container module to the top.