GB2572000A

GB2572000A - Apparatus for rainwater harvesting

Info

Publication number: GB2572000A
Application number: GB1804242.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Patel Junaid
Original assignee: Freeflush Ltd
Current assignee: Freeflush Ltd
Priority date: 2018-03-16
Filing date: 2018-03-16
Publication date: 2019-09-18
Anticipated expiration: 2038-03-16
Also published as: GB2572000B; GB201804242D0

Abstract

An apparatus 100 for rainwater harvesting from a downpipe is described. The apparatus comprises an inlet 110 and a first outlet 120 opposed to the inlet, thereby defining an axis A extending there between. The apparatus comprises a second outlet 130. The apparatus comprises a weir 140, wherein the weir is arranged between the first outlet and the second outlet to control, in use, flow of water through the first outlet. The apparatus comprises a filter 150, wherein the filter extends across the inlet transverse to the axis A. The apparatus comprises a deflector 160, wherein the deflector extends across the weir to, in use, deflect water received thereupon via the filter towards the second outlet.

Description

Apparatus for rainwater harvesting

Field

The present invention relates to rainwater harvesting. Particularly, the present invention relates to an apparatus for rainwater harvesting from a downpipe.

Background to the invention

Rainwater harvesting is the accumulation and storage of rainwater for reuse on-site, rather than allowing the rainwater to soak away or be discharged via waste water (also known as storm drain) sewer systems, for example. Rainwater (more generally, precipitation such as rain or snow) falling on roofs (i.e. roof catchment) typically flows into guttering and is hence channelled downwards via downpipes, usually to enter the waste water sewer systems. Rainwater harvesting, particularly for domestic residences, typically involves intercepting at least a portion of the rainwater that is channelled downwards via the downpipes and storing the portion of the intercepted rainwater, for example in water butts (also known as drums, cisterns, reservoirs or accumulators). Rainwater harvested in this way may be used directly, for example, for irrigation or for domestic use, such as flushing toilets and washing. Appropriately treated, the harvested rainwater may also be used as drinking (also known as potable) water. Rainwater harvesting has a potential to reduce demand for mains water by up to half.

However, solids deposited on the roofs and/or in the guttering may be channelled downwards via the downpipes with the rainwater. Preferably, such solids are not intercepted by the rainwater harvesting, since contamination of the stored rainwater may result. However, filtration, using filters, of the intercepted rainwater may result in blockages of the filters by the filtered solids, reducing an efficiency of intercepting the portion of the rainwater that is channelled downwards via the downpipes. Additionally, frequent maintenance, for example cleaning, of the filters may be required. Furthermore, a remaining portion of the rainwater that is not intercepted (i.e. not harvested) may comprise a relatively higher proportion of solids (i.e. a higher loading of solids) and may results in blockages downstream, for example of the waste water sewer systems.

Hence, there is a need to improve rainwater harvesting, for example from a downpipe.

Summary of the Invention

It is one aim of the present invention, amongst others, to provide an apparatus for rainwater harvesting from a downpipe which at least partially obviates or mitigates at least some of the disadvantages of the prior art, whether identified herein or elsewhere. For instance, it is an aim of embodiments of the invention to provide an apparatus for rainwater harvesting from a downpipe that improves and/or maintains an efficiency of intercepting a portion of rainwater that is channelled downwards via the downpipe, in use. For instance, it is an aim of embodiments of the invention to provide an apparatus for rainwater harvesting from a downpipe that reduces a requirement for, a frequency of and/or a complexity of maintenance. For instance, it is an aim of embodiments of the invention to provide an apparatus for rainwater harvesting from a downpipe that reduces blockages downstream thereof, for example of a waste water sewer system to which the downpipe is coupled.

According to a first aspect, there is provided an apparatus for rainwater harvesting from a downpipe, the apparatus comprising:

an inlet and a first outlet opposed to the inlet, thereby defining an axis extending there between;

a second outlet;

a weir, wherein the weir is arranged between the first outlet and the second outlet to control, in use, flow of water through the first outlet;

a filter, wherein the filter extends across the inlet transverse to the axis; and a deflector, wherein the deflector extends across the weir to, in use, deflect water received thereupon via the filter towards the second outlet.

According to a second aspect, there is provided an assembly for rainwater harvesting from a downpipe, the assembly comprising:

an apparatus according to the first aspect; and a container, coupleable to the second outlet, for storing water therein.

Detailed Description of the Invention

According to the present invention there is provided an apparatus for rainwater harvesting from a downpipe, as set forth in the appended claims. Also provided is an assembly for rainwater harvesting from a downpipe. Other features of the invention will be apparent from the dependent claims, and the description that follows.

Apparatus

According to the first aspect, there is provided an apparatus for rainwater harvesting from a downpipe, the apparatus comprising:

a second outlet;

In this way, the improves and/or maintains an efficiency of intercepting a portion of rainwater that is channelled downwards via the downpipe, in use, since the filter extends across the inlet transverse to the axis and the deflector, extending across the weir, deflects water received thereupon via the filter towards the second outlet, for storage. In this way, the apparatus reduces a requirement for, a frequency of and/or a complexity of maintenance since the blockage of the filter is reduced. In this way, the apparatus reduces blockages downstream thereof, for example of a waste water sewer system to which the downpipe is coupled, since debris is filtered by the filter, rather than continuing through the first outlet.

The apparatus is for rainwater harvesting from the downpipe. That is, the apparatus is for intercepting at least a portion of rainwater that is channelled downwards via the downpipe from a roof, for example. Typically, downpipes have round, rectangular or square cross-sectional shapes and are available according to standard dimensions or sizes, usually according to national building regulations, formed from plastics materials comprising polymeric compositions or metals, for example alloys of aluminium, iron or lead. In use, the apparatus is arranged between an upper portion of the downpipe, proximal or at a lower end thereof, and a lower portion of the downpipe, proximal or at an upper end thereof. For new downpipe installations, the downpipe may be provided ab initio having a gap between such portions. For retrofit installations of the apparatus to an existing downpipe, a corresponding section of the downpipe may be removed. More generally, the apparatus is arranged, in use, intermedially between opposed ends of the downpipe.

Inlet and first outlet

The apparatus comprises the inlet and the first outlet opposed to the inlet, thereby defining an axis extending there between. It should be understood that the inlet is for entry into the apparatus of water channelled downwards theretowards by the downpipe (i.e. by an upper portion of the downpipe), in use. That is, in use, water descends or flows (continuously, discontinuously and/or intermittently) downwards into the apparatus via the inlet. It should be understood that the first outlet is for exit from the apparatus of water that is not harvested and hence continues through the apparatus, via the first outlet, into the downpipe (i.e. a lower portion of the downpipe).

In one example, the inlet and the first outlet are coaxial. In other words, the inlet and the first outlet may be axially aligned. In this way, the apparatus may be arranged between an upper section of the downpipe and a lower section of the downpipe, wherein the upper section of the downpipe and the lower section of the downpipe are coaxial, such as for retrofit installations of the apparatus to an existing downpipe. In one example, the inlet and the first outlet are not coaxial. In other words, the inlet and the first outlet may be axially misaligned. In this way, the apparatus may be arranged between an upper section of the downpipe and a lower section of the downpipe, wherein the upper section of the downpipe and the lower section of the downpipe are not coaxial, such as to correspond with specific or custom downpipe and/or waste water sewer system locations.

In one example, the inlet comprises a set of cylindrical inlets having respective diameters arranged to couple with round or square downpipe respectively. In this way, the inlet may be coupled to different sizes and/or shapes of downpipe.

In one example, the first outlet comprises a set of cylindrical first outlets having respective first diameters arranged to couple with round or square downpipe respectively. In this way, the first outlet may be coupled to different sizes and/or shapes of downpipe.

Second outlet

The apparatus comprises the second outlet. It should be understood that the second outlet is for exit from the apparatus of water that is harvested and hence exits the apparatus, via the second outlet, into a container, coupleable to the second outlet, for storing water therein. Hence, if a proportion P (fraction, may be expressed as a percentage) of the water entering the apparatus via the inlet is harvested and exits the apparatus via the second outlet, an efficiency of the apparatus is also P. In contrast, a proportion (1 - P) of the water entering the apparatus via the inlet is not harvested and exits the apparatus via the first outlet. It is desirable to increase the efficiency P of the apparatus. Blockages, for example due to solids, in the apparatus may reduce the efficiency P of the apparatus, which is undesired.

In one example, the second outlet comprises a set of cylindrical second outlets having respective second diameters arranged to couple with threaded or non-threaded couplings respectively. In this way, the second outlet may be coupled to pipes having different diameters. In one example, the set of cylindrical second outlets having respective second diameters are arranged successively by decreasing respective second diameters, extending away from the apparatus. In one example, the set of cylindrical second outlets is arranged to be parted, for example divided or cut, between successive respective second diameters. In one example, the set of cylindrical second outlets is arranged coaxially.

Weir

The apparatus comprises the weir, wherein the weir is arranged between the first outlet and the second outlet to control, in use, flow of water through the first outlet. Generally, a weir is a barrier that alters flow characteristics of water, such that water is retained on one side of the barrier but also flows over the weir (also known as a crest or a top thereof) along at least some of a length of the weir if a water level exceeds a height thereof. In this way, the weir normally directs water towards the second outlet (i.e. water is retained on the second outlet side of the weir) but in an event of a water level exceeding a height of the weir (for example due to a flowrate of water into the apparatus via the inlet exceeding a maximum flowrate of water out of the apparatus via the second outlet and/or if a container, coupleable to the second outlet, for storing water therein is full), such excess water flows over the weir and hence through the first outlet.

In one example, a height of the weir is in a range from 20 to 70 mm, preferably in a range from 30 to 60 mm, more preferably in a range from 40 to 50 mm, for example 45 mm. The inventors have determined that if the height of the weir is too low, water droplets tends to bounce over the weir. Conversely, the inventors have determined that if the height of the weir is too high, harvested water may overflow a container coupled to the second inlet, for example.

In one example, the weir is provided by a wall, for example an edge thereof and/or an aperture therein, extending away from first outlet towards the first inlet. That is, the wall extends inwards into the apparatus, for example vertically upwards in use. In one example, the wall is arranged around a periphery of the first outlet. In this way, a length of the weir may be increased, thereby increasing flow rates of water that may be handled by the apparatus.

In one example, the weir is provided by a first cylindrical wall extending away from the first outlet towards the first inlet (i.e. inwards into the apparatus). In one example, the first cylindrical wall extends away from the first outlet away the first inlet (i.e. outwards from the apparatus), wherein the first cylindrical wall provides a first female coupling member, for example a socket, arranged to receive a corresponding end of a downpipe, for example a 50 mm diameter downpipe. In one example, the apparatus comprises a second cylindrical wall arranged coaxially around the first cylindrical wall extending away from the first inlet, wherein the second cylindrical wall provides a second female coupling member, for example a socket, arranged to receive a corresponding end of a larger downpipe, for example a 70 mm diameter downpipe. In this way, compatibility of the apparatus with different sizes of downpipe may be improved.

Filter

The apparatus comprises the filter (also known as a screen), wherein the filter extends across the inlet transverse to the axis. It should be understood that the filter is a physical filter (i.e. not a chemical or an electrochemical filter), arranged to prevent at least some solids included in the water, entering the apparatus via the inlet, from exiting the apparatus via the first outlet and/or the second outlet. By filtering the water in this way, contamination by the solids of the stored, harvested water, that exits the apparatus via the second inlet, may be reduced. Furthermore, by filtering the water in this way, increased loading of solids of the water that is not harvested, that exits the apparatus via the first inlet, may also be reduced, thereby reducing blockages downstream, for example of the waste water sewer systems. This may be important because the waste water sewer systems are typically designed to accommodate relatively low loadings of solids of the water transported therethrough. Hence, discharging solids to the waste water sewer systems at relatively high loadings, such as when most or all of the water is harvested, may be detrimental to the waste water sewer systems. Solids may include insoluble organic debris and/or insoluble inorganic debris. Insoluble organic debris may include plant matter for example leaves, moss or wood and/or animal matter for example feathers or animals. Insoluble inorganic debris may include plastic, building material and/or refuse.

In one example, the filter extends fully across the inlet, for example fully across a diameter and/or a maximum dimension thereof. In this way, all water entering the apparatus via the inlet may be filtered.

In one example, the filter is inclined to the axis by an angle of inclination in a range from 45° to 75°, preferably in a range from 50° to 70°, more preferably in a range from 55° to 65°, for example 60°. The inventors have determined that if the angle of inclination is too large (i.e. the filter is inclined too steeply, in use), while solids slide off the filter more readily, water tends to flow across the filter (i.e. across an upper surface thereof), rather than through the filter. That is, the water tends to run off the filter rather than percolate through the filter, for example. In this way, an efficiency of the apparatus is reduced since less water flows through the filter, flowing instead across the filter. Conversely, the inventors have determined that if the angle of inclination is too small (i.e. the filter is inclined too shallowly, in use), while water tends to flow through the filter more readily, solids tend to accumulate on and/or in the filter (i.e. on an upper surface thereof and/or within the filter), rather than slide off the filter, thereby blocking the filter.

In this way, an efficiency of the apparatus is reduced since less water flows through the blocked filter.

In one example, the filter comprises a mesh having an aperture size in a range from 0.05 mm to 50 mm, preferably in a range from 0.1 mm to 10 mm, more preferably in a range from 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, for example 0.4 mm. The inventors have determined that if the aperture size is too large (i.e. a coarse mesh), relatively large solids pass through the filter and hence via the first outlet and/or the second outlet and/or are retained in the apparatus. Conversely, the inventors have determined that if the aperture size is too small (i.e. a fine mesh), relatively small solids tend to accumulate on and/or in the filter (i.e. on an upper surface thereof and/or within the filter), thereby blocking the filter. In this way, an efficiency of the apparatus is reduced since less water flows through the blocked filter. In one example, the mesh is a planar mesh, for example a woven mesh, an expanded mesh or a perforated mesh. In one example, the mesh is formed from a metal, for example an alloy such as stainless steel, or a polymeric composition, for example a thermoplastic.

In one example, the filter has an open area of at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 85%. In this way, a flowrate of the water through the filter may be increased for a given area of the filter.

In one example, the filter is a removeable filter. In this way, the filter may be removed for maintenance, for example cleaning, or replacement, for example due to damage and/or to change a mesh size.

In one example, the filter is orthogonal to a plane defined by the axis and an axis of the second outlet.

Door

In one example, the apparatus comprises a first passageway (also known as an access aperture or port) arranged for accessing the filter. In this way, the filter may be accessed for maintenance, for example cleaning thereof. In one example, the apparatus comprises a second passageway (also known as an access aperture or port) arranged for accessing the filter. In this way, the filter may be accessed for maintenance, for replacement thereof, for example due to damage and/or to change a mesh size. In one example, the first passageway is arranged proximal an upper portion of the filter. In one example, the second passageway is arranged proximal a lower portion of the filter. In one example, a width of the first passageway is less than a width of the filter, thereby preventing removal and insertion of the filter therethrough. In one example, a width of the second passageway is greater than a width of the filter, thereby enabling removal and insertion of the filter therethrough. In one example, the first passageway provides an overflow for the apparatus and a height of the first passageway above the weir is arranged to limit use as an overflow only during heavy storms.

Trap

In one example, the apparatus comprises a trap arranged to receive solids received upon the filter. In this way, the solids filtered out by the filter may be collected in the trap, for example for disposal thereof. In one example, the trap is arranged externally to the apparatus. In this way, the trap may be readily accessed. In one example, the apparatus comprises a passageway arranged for accessing the filter, for example an upper side thereof, and the trap. In one example, the trap is a removeable trap. In this way, the collected solids may be readily disposed of, by removing, emptying and subsequently replacing the trap.

Deflector

The apparatus comprises the deflector, wherein the deflector extends across the weir to, in use, deflect water received thereupon via the filter towards the second outlet. That is, filtered water impinges, in use, upon the deflector and is hence directed thereby over a top of the weir to the second outlet side of the weir, rather than to the first outlet side of the weir. In this way, a size of the filter may be increased, for example maximised for a given size of the apparatus, so as to improve filtration for higher flowrates while also increasing an amount of water that may be harvested, thereby increasing the efficiency of the apparatus. The inventors have determined that water channelled downwards via the downpipe tends to fall relatively more proximal a central portion of the downpipe, rather than proximal a peripheral (i.e. a wall) portion of the downpipe. Hence, the filter preferably extends across at least the central portion of the downpipe and hence a central portion of the inlet, and more preferably across the central portion and the peripheral portion of the downpipe and hence the central portion and a peripheral portion of the inlet. However, particularly where the inlet and the first outlet are coaxial, the filter would then extend across a central portion of the first outlet and/or the central portion and a peripheral portion of the first outlet, respectively, such that the filtered water would then fall directly through the first outlet and hence not be harvested. Thus, the deflector prevents the filtered water from falling directly through the first outlet.

In one example, the deflector extends across the first outlet, for example completely across the first outlet. In one example, the deflector overhangs beyond the first outlet, for example by at least 2 mm, preferably at least 5 mm beyond the first outlet. In this way, water received on the deflector via the filter is deflected away from the first outlet.

The deflector extends across the weir, for example completely across the weir. In one example, the deflector overhangs the weir towards an upstream side thereof, for example by at least 2 mm, preferably at least 5 mm towards an upstream side thereof. In this way, water received on the deflector via the filter is deflected over the weir towards the second outlet.

In one example, the deflector comprises an inclined surface arranged to deflect water received thereupon via the filter towards the second outlet, for example towards an upstream side of the weir. In one example, the deflector comprises a convex surface, for example a domed surface, arranged to deflect water received thereupon via the filter towards the second outlet, for example towards an upstream side of the weir. The convex surface is preferable if the weir is provided as a cylindrical wall, as described previously.

In one example, the deflector is releasably coupleable to the weir. In one example, the deflector comprises an inclined or a convex surface, for example a domed surface, arranged to deflect water received thereupon via the filter towards the second outlet, wherein the inclined or the convex surface is provided with one or more legs, for example 1,2,3, 4, or more legs, wherein the legs are releasably coupleable to the weir, for example via respective female members or slots provided therein.

Housing

In one example, the apparatus comprises a housing. In one example, the housing comprises a plurality of wall portions, for example a first or upper wall portion opposed to a second or lower wall portion and side wall portion extending therebetween, for example transversely or orthogonally to the first wall portion and the second wall portion. In one example, the first or upper wall portion comprises a removable first or upper wall portion. In this way, an internal volume of the apparatus and/or the filter may be inspected and/or maintained by removing the first or upper wall portion. In one example, the housing comprises a cylindrical housing. In one example, the side wall portion comprises a plurality of side wall portions, for example a first or front side wall portion opposed to a second or rear side wall portion and a third or left side wall portion opposed to fourth or right side wall portion extending therebetween, for example transversely or orthogonally to the first side wall portion and the second side wall portion. In one example, the housing comprises a cuboidal housing. In one example, widths of the side wall portions are equal. In one example, edges between adjacent wall portions are radiused or chamfered.

In one example, the inlet is provided in and/or through the first wall portion, for example as a first aperture therein. In one example, the first outlet is provided in and/or through the second wall portion, for example as a second aperture therein. In one example, the second outlet is provided through the third or left side wall portion. In one example, the first passageway arranged for accessing the filter is provided in the fourth or right side wall portion. In one example, the trap is arranged on, for example coupled to or releasbly coupled to, the fourth or right side wall portion. In one example, the second passageway arranged for accessing the filter is provided in the third or left side wall portion.

In one example, a wall portion, for example the first or front side wall portion or the second or rear side wall portion, of the apparatus is spaced by a spacing of at most 100 mm, preferably at most 75 mm, more preferably at most 50 mm from the axis, wherein the spacing is measured orthogonally to the wall portion. In this way, the apparatus may be installed with an existing downpipe.

Material

In one example, the apparatus comprises a first polymeric composition comprising a first thermoplastic polymer.

In one example, the apparatus comprises a second polymeric composition comprising a second thermoplastic polymer.

The first polymeric composition and the second polymeric composition may be the same or different. The first thermoplastic polymer and the second thermoplastic polymer may be the same or different.

Polymeric compositions comprising thermoplastics may be readily formed, for example by extrusion, moulding or injection moulding, to provide at least parts of the apparatus. Such polymeric compositions may have appropriate mechanical properties suitable for domestic installations. Such polymeric compositions may have appropriate chemical properties suitable for resistance to the environment. For example, such polymeric compositions may be resistant to chemicals, such as oils and/or leachates. In addition, such polymeric compositions may be stabilised for resistance to UV light and/or ozone, for example.

The first thermoplastic polymer and/or the second thermoplastic polymer may be selected from a group consisting of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), aliphatic or semi-aromatic polyamides, polylactic acid (polylactide) (PLA), polybenzimidazole (PBI), polycarbonate (PC), polyether sulfone (PES), polyetherimide, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polymethylpentene (PMP) and polybutene-1 (PB-1), polystyrene (PS) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). A preferred first thermoplastic polymer is polyvinyl chloride (PVC). A preferred second thermoplastic polymer is polyethylene (PE).

The first thermoplastic polymer and/or the second thermoplastic polymer may be a thermoplastic polyolefin. The thermoplastic polyolefin may be selected from a group consisting of: polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polymethylpentene (PMP) and polybutene-1 (PB-1). A preferred thermoplastic polyolefin for the second thermoplastic polymer is polyethylene (PE).

In one example, the first thermoplastic polymer is polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

In one example, the second thermoplastic polymer is polyethylene (PE).

The polyethylene may have a density range of 0.880-0.940 g/cm3. The polyethylene may have a density >0.940 g/cm3.

The polyethylene may be selected from a group consisting of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), medium-density polyethylene (MDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), lowdensity polyethylene (LDPE) and very-low-density polyethylene (VLDPE).

In one example, the second thermoplastic polymer is high-density polyethylene (HDPE).

The polyethylene may have a crystallinity of more than 30%, more than 35%, more than 40%, more than 45%, more than 50%, more than 55%, more than 60%, more than 65%, more than 70%, more than 75%, more than 80%, more than 85%, more than 90%.

The PE may be copolymerised with, for example, but-1-ene or hex-1-ene.

The first polymeric composition and/or the second polymeric composition may comprise additives, such as fillers and/or colourants.

In one example, the first outlet, the second outlet, the weir, the deflector, the trap and/or the housing are formed from first polymeric composition comprising a first thermoplastic polymer, preferably PVC, having a wall thickness of in a range from 0.5 mm to 3 mm, preferably in a range from 1 mm to 2.5 mm, for example 1.5 mm or 2 mm. In one example, the first outlet, the second outlet, the weir, and/or the housing are integrally formed from first polymeric composition comprising a first thermoplastic polymer, preferably PVC, having a wall thickness of in a range from 0.5 mm to 3 mm, preferably in a range from 1 mm to 2.5 mm, for example

1.5 mm or 2 mm.

In one example, the apparatus comprises a metal, for example an alloy such as a steel, stainless steel or an aluminium alloy.

Assembly

In one example, the container is coupleable to an external domestic wall. In one example, the container is a water butt (also known as a drum, a cistern, a reservoir or an accumulator). In one example, the assembly comprises a hose for coupling the second outlet to the container.

Definitions & combinations of features

Throughout this specification, the term “comprising” or “comprises” means including the component(s) specified but not to the exclusion of the presence of other components. The term “consisting essentially of’ or “consists essentially of” means including the components specified but excluding other components except for materials present as impurities, unavoidable materials present as a result of processes used to provide the components, and components added for a purpose other than achieving the technical effect of the invention, such as colourants, and the like.

The term “consisting of” or “consists of’ means including the components specified but excluding other components.

Whenever appropriate, depending upon the context, the use of the term “comprises” or “comprising” may also be taken to include the meaning “consists essentially of” or “consisting essentially of’, and also may also be taken to include the meaning “consists of’ or “consisting of’.

The optional features set out herein may be used either individually or in combination with each other where appropriate and particularly in the combinations as set out in the accompanying claims. The optional features for each aspect or exemplary embodiment of the invention, as set out herein are also applicable to all other aspects or exemplary embodiments of the invention, where appropriate. In other words, the skilled person reading this specification should consider the optional features for each aspect or exemplary embodiment of the invention as interchangeable and combinable between different aspects and exemplary embodiments.

Brief description of the drawings

For a better understanding of the invention, and to show how exemplary embodiments of the same may be brought into effect, reference will be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying diagrammatic Figures, in which:

Figure 1 schematically depicts an apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment;

Figure 2 schematically depicts the apparatus of Figure 1, in more detail;

Figure 3 schematically depicts the apparatus of Figure 1, in more detail;

Figure 4 schematically depicts an apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment;

Figure 5 schematically depicts the apparatus of Figure 4, in more detail; and

Figure 6 schematically depicts the apparatus of Figure 4, in more detail.

Detailed Description of the Drawings

Briefly, Figures 1 to 3 depict an apparatus 100 according to an exemplary embodiment and Figures 4 to 6 depict an apparatus 200 according to another exemplary embodiment. Similar reference signs denote similar features. For conciseness, only differences of the apparatus 200 compared with the apparatus 100 are described.

Figure 1 schematically depicts an apparatus 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. Particularly, Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the apparatus 100.

Figure 2 schematically depicts the apparatus 100 of Figure 1, in more detail. Particularly, Figure 2 shows a side elevation view of the apparatus 100.

Figure 3 schematically depicts the apparatus 100 of Figure 1, in more detail. Particularly, Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the apparatus 100, through J - J of Figure 2.

In more detail, the apparatus 100 is for rainwater harvesting from a downpipe. The apparatus 100 comprises an inlet 110 and a first outlet 120 opposed to the inlet 110, thereby defining an axis A extending there between. The apparatus 100 comprises a second outlet 130. The apparatus 100 comprises a weir 140, wherein the weir 140 is arranged between the first outlet 120 and the second outlet 130 to control, in use, flow of water through the first outlet 120. The apparatus 100 comprises a filter 150, wherein the filter 150 extends across the inlet 110 transverse to the axis A. The apparatus 100 comprises a deflector 160, wherein the deflector 160 extends across the weir 140 to, in use, deflect water received thereupon via the filter 150 towards the second outlet 130.

Inlet and first outlet

The apparatus 100 comprises the inlet 110 and the first outlet 120 opposed to the inlet 110, thereby defining an axis A extending there between. It should be understood that the inlet 110 is for entry into the apparatus 100 of water channelled downwards theretowards by the downpipe (i.e. by an upper portion of the downpipe), in use. That is, in use, water descends or flows (continuously, discontinuously and/or intermittently) downwards into the apparatus 100 via the inlet 110. It should be understood that the first outlet 120 is for exit from the apparatus 100 of water that is not harvested and hence continues through the apparatus 100, via the first outlet 120, into the downpipe (i.e. a lower portion of the downpipe).

In this example, the inlet 110 and the first outlet 120 are coaxial. In this way, the apparatus 100 may be arranged between an upper section of the downpipe and a lower section of the downpipe, wherein the upper section of the downpipe and the lower section of the downpipe are coaxial, such as for retrofit installations of the apparatus 100 to an existing downpipe.

In this example, the inlet 110 comprises a set of cylindrical inlets 110 having respective diameters arranged to couple with round or square downpipe respectively. In this way, the inlet 110 may be coupled to different sizes and/or shapes of downpipe.

In this example, the first outlet 120 comprises a set of cylindrical first outlets 120 having respective first diameters arranged to couple with round or square downpipe respectively. In this way, the first outlet 120 may be coupled to different sizes and/or shapes of downpipe.

Second outlet

The apparatus 100 comprises the second outlet 130. It should be understood that the second outlet 130 is for exit from the apparatus 100 of water that is harvested and hence exits the apparatus 100, via the second outlet 130, into a container, coupleable to the second outlet 130, for storing water therein.

In this example, the second outlet 130 comprises a set of two cylindrical second outlets 130 (130A, 130B) having respective second diameters arranged to couple with threaded (i.e. the second outlet 130A having a diameter of 32.50 mm) and non-threaded (i.e. the second outlet 130B having a diameter of 41 mm) couplings respectively. In this way, the second outlet 130 may be coupled to pipes having different diameters. In this example, the set of cylindrical second outlets 130 having respective second diameters are arranged successively by decreasing respective second diameters, extending away from the apparatus 100. In this example, the set of cylindrical second outlets 130 is arranged to be parted, for example divided or cut, between successive respective second diameters at a parting plane P.

Weir

The apparatus 100 comprises the weir 140, wherein the weir 140 is arranged between the first outlet 120 and the second outlet 130 to control, in use, flow of water through the first outlet 120. In this way, the weir 140 normally directs water towards the second outlet 130 (i.e. water is retained on the second outlet 130 side of the weir 140) but in an event of a water level exceeding a height of the weir 140, such excess water flows over the weir 140 and hence through the first outlet 120.

In this example, a height H of the weir 140 is 45 mm. In this example, the weir 140 is provided by a first cylindrical wall 142, for example an edge thereof extending, away from the first outlet 120 towards the first inlet 110 (i.e. inwards into the apparatus 100 and hence vertically upwards in use). In this example, the first cylindrical wall 142 extends away from the first outlet 120 away the first inlet 110 (i.e. outwards from the apparatus 100), wherein the first cylindrical wall 142 provides a first female coupling member, for example a socket, arranged to receive a corresponding end of a downpipe, for example a 50 mm diameter downpipe. In this example, the apparatus 100 comprises a second cylindrical wall 144 arranged coaxially around the first cylindrical wall 142 extending away from the first inlet 110, wherein the second cylindrical wall 144 provides a second female coupling member, for example a socket, arranged to receive a corresponding end of a larger downpipe, for example a 70 mm diameter downpipe.

Filter

The apparatus 100 comprises the filter 150, wherein the filter 150 extends across the inlet 110 transverse to the axis A. In this example, the filter 150 extends fully across the inlet 110, for example fully across a diameter and/or a maximum dimension thereof. In this example, the filter 150 is inclined to the axis A by an angle of inclination of 60°. In this example, the filter 150 comprises a mesh having an aperture size of 0.4 mm. In this example, the mesh is a woven mesh formed from stainless steel. In this example, the filter 150 has an open area of 70%. In this example, the filter 150 is a removeable filter 150. In this example, the filter 150 is orthogonal to a plane defined by the axis A and an axis A of the second outlet 130.

Passageway

In this example, the apparatus 100 comprises a first passageway 152 (also known as an access aperture or port) arranged for accessing the filter 150, for example for cleaning thereof. In this example, the apparatus 100 comprises a second passageway 154 (also known as an access aperture or port) arranged for accessing the filter 150, for example for replacement thereof. In this example, the first passageway 152 is arranged proximal an upper portion of the filter 150. In this example, the second passageway 154 is arranged proximal a lower portion of the filter 150. In this example, a width of the first passageway is less than a width of the filter 150, thereby preventing removal and insertion of the filter 150 therethrough. In this example, a width of the second passageway 154 is greater than a width of the filter 150, thereby enabling removal and insertion of the filter 150 therethrough.

Deflector

The apparatus 100 comprises the deflector 160, wherein the deflector 160 extends across the weir 140 to, in use, deflect water received thereupon via the filter 150 towards the second outlet 130. That is, filtered water impinges, in use, upon the deflector 160 and is hence directed thereby over a top of the weir 140 to the second outlet 130 side of the weir 140, rather than to the first outlet 120 side of the weir 140.

In this example, the deflector 160 extends completely across the first outlet 120. In this example, the deflector 160 overhangs by 2 mm beyond the first outlet 120. In this example, the deflector 160 extends completely across the weir 140. In this example, the deflector 160 overhangs the weir 140 by 2 mm towards an upstream side thereof. In this example, the deflector 160 comprises a convex surface 162, particularly a domed surface 162, arranged to deflect water received thereupon via the filter 150 towards the second outlet 130, for example towards an upstream side of the weir 140.

In this example, the deflector 160 is releasably coupleable to the weir 140. In this example, the deflector 160 comprises the convex surface 162, for example a domed surface, arranged to deflect water received thereupon via the filter 150 towards the second outlet 130, wherein the convex surface 162 is provided with 4 legs 164A - 164B, wherein the legs 164A - 164B are releasably coupleable to the weir 140, via respective female members or slots 166A - 166B provided therein.

Housing

In this example, the apparatus 100 comprises a housing 170. In this example, the housing 170 comprises a plurality of wall portions, including a first or upper wall portion 171 opposed to a second or lower wall portion 172 and side wall portion extending therebetween, orthogonally to the first wall portion 171 and the second wall portion 172. In this example, the side wall portion comprises a plurality of side wall portions, including a first or front side wall portion 173 opposed to a second or rear side wall portion 174 and a third or left side wall portion 175 opposed to fourth or right side wall portion 176 extending therebetween, orthogonally to the first side wall portion 173 and the second side wall portion 174. In this example, the housing 170 comprises a cuboidal housing 170. In this example, widths W of the side wall portions 173, 174, 175, 176 are equal and 90 mm. In this example, edges between adjacent wall portions are radiused, having a radius of 5 mm. In this example, the first or upper wall portion 171 is a removable first or upper wall portion 171.

In this example, the inlet 110 is provided through the first wall portion 171, as a first circular aperture therein, having a diameter of 70 mm. In this example, the first outlet 120 is provided through the second wall portion 172 as a second aperture therein. In this example, the second outlet 130 is provided through the third or left side wall portion 175. In this example, the passageway 152 arranged for accessing the filter 150 is provided in the fourth or right side wall portion 175. In this example, the second passageway 154 for accessing the filter 150 is provided in the third or left side wall portion 176.

In this example, the first or front side wall portion 173 and the second or rear side wall portion 174 of the apparatus 100 is spaced by a spacing of 47.5 mm from the axis A, wherein the spacing is measured orthogonally to the first or front side wall portion 173 and the second or rear side wall portion 174.

Material

In one example, the apparatus comprises a first polymeric composition comprising a first thermoplastic polymer, specifically polyvinyl chloride (PVC). In this example, the first outlet 120, the second outlet 130, the weir 140, the deflector 150, and the housing 170 are formed from the first polymeric composition comprising the first thermoplastic polymer, specifically PVC, having a wall thickness of about 2 mm. In this example, the first outlet 120, the second outlet 130, the weir 140, and the housing 170 are integrally formed.

Figure 4 schematically depicts an apparatus 200 according to an exemplary embodiment. Particularly, Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the apparatus 200.

Figure 5 schematically depicts the apparatus 200 of Figure 4, in more detail. Particularly, Figure 5 shows a side elevation view of the apparatus 200.

Figure 6 schematically depicts the apparatus 200 of Figure 4, in more detail. Particularly, Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the apparatus 200, through J - J of Figure 5.

In more detail, the apparatus 200 is for rainwater harvesting from a downpipe. The apparatus 200 comprises an inlet 210 and a first outlet 220 opposed to the inlet 210, thereby defining an axis A extending there between. The apparatus 200 comprises a second outlet 230. The apparatus 200 comprises a weir 240, wherein the weir 240 is arranged between the first outlet 220 and the second outlet 230 to control, in use, flow of water through the first outlet 220. The apparatus 200 comprises a filter 250, wherein the filter 250 extends across the inlet 210 transverse to the axis A. The apparatus 200 comprises a deflector 260, wherein the deflector 260 extends across the weir 240 to, in use, deflect water received thereupon via the filter 250 towards the second outlet 230.

Trap

In this example, the apparatus 200 comprises a trap 280 arranged to receive solids received upon the filter 250. In this way, the solids filtered out by the filter may be collected in the trap 280, for example for disposal thereof. In this example, the trap 280 is arranged externally to the apparatus 200. In this way, the trap 280 may be readily accessed. In this example, the apparatus 200 comprises a passageway 282 arranged to couple the filter 250 and the trap 280. In this example, the trap 280 is a removeable trap 280. In this way, the collected solids may be readily disposed of, by removing, emptying and subsequently replacing the trap 280.

In this example, the trap 280 is releasbly coupled to the fourth or right side wall portion 276. In this example, the passageway arranged to couple the filter 250 and the trap 280 is provided through the fourth or right side wall portion 276.

The apparatus 200 is otherwise as described with respect to the apparatus 100.

Although a preferred embodiment has been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications might be made without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims and as described above.

In summary, the invention provides an apparatus for rainwater harvesting from a downpipe. The apparatus improves and/or maintains an efficiency of intercepting a portion of rainwater that is channelled downwards via the downpipe, in use, since the filter extends across the inlet transverse to the axis and the deflector, extending across the weir, deflects water received thereupon via the filter towards the second outlet, for storage. In this way, the apparatus reduces a requirement for, a frequency of and/or a complexity of maintenance since the blockage of the filter is reduced. In this way, the apparatus reduces blockages downstream thereof, for example of a waste water sewer system to which the downpipe is coupled, since debris is filtered by the filter, rather than continuing through the first outlet.

Attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at most some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

1. An apparatus for rainwater harvesting from a downpipe, the apparatus comprising:

an inlet and a first outlet opposed to the inlet, thereby defining an axis extending there between, a second outlet;

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a height of the weir is in a range from 20 to 70 mm, preferably in a range from 30 to 60 mm, more preferably in a range from 40 to 50 mm, for example 45 mm.

3. The apparatus according to any previous claim, wherein the weir is provided by a first cylindrical wall extending away from the first outlet.

4. The apparatus according to any previous claim, wherein the deflector extends across the first outlet.

5. The apparatus according to any previous claim, wherein the deflector comprises a convex surface.

6. The apparatus according to any previous claim, wherein the filter is inclined to the axis by an angle of inclination in a range from 45° to 75°, preferably in a range from 50° to 70°, more preferably in a range from 55° to 65°, for example 60°.

7. The apparatus according to any previous claim, wherein the filter comprises a mesh having an aperture size in a range from 0.05 mm to 50 mm, preferably in a range from 0.1 mm to 10 mm, more preferably in a range from 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, for example 0.4 mm.

8. The apparatus according to any previous claim, wherein the filter is a removeable filter.

9. The apparatus according to any previous claim, comprising a first passageway and/or a second passageway arranged for accessing the filter.

10. The apparatus according to any previous claim, comprising a trap arranged to receive solids received upon the filter.

11. The apparatus according to any previous claim, wherein the second outlet comprises a set of cylindrical second outlets having respective second diameters arranged to couple with threaded or non-threaded couplings respectively.

12. The apparatus according to any previous claim, wherein the first outlet comprises a set of cylindrical first outlets having respective first diameters arranged to couple with round or square downpipe respectively.

13. The apparatus according to any previous claim, wherein the inlet and the first outlet are coaxial.

14. The apparatus according to any previous claim, wherein the filter is orthogonal to a plane defined by the axis and an axis of the second outlet.

15. The apparatus according to any previous claim, wherein a wall portion of the apparatus is spaced by a spacing of at most 100 mm, preferably at most 75 mm, more preferably at most 50 mm from the axis, wherein the spacing is measured orthogonally to the wall portion.

16. An assembly for rainwater harvesting from a downpipe, the assembly comprising:

an apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 15; and a container, coupleable to the second outlet, for storing water therein.