A FITTING FOR A WATER TANK

Abstract

A fitting, and method for mounting the fitting, to a water tank including a wall defining an inlet opening. The fitting comprising a solar shield for mounting to an edge of the wall, the edge defining the inlet opening. The solar shield including a base defining a lower region; at least a first arm extending upwardly from the base, the first arm having a portion that overlies an external surface of the tank when the fitting is fitted to the tank; at least a second arm extending upwardly from the base; and, a solar shield adapted to allow fluid to pass located, wherein the solar shield is adapted to snap fit into the inlet opening when the fitting is fitted to the tank without the use of additional fasteners, joiners and/or adhesives.

Claims

1. A fitting for a water tank including at least one inlet opening defined by at least one edge of the water tank, the fitting including: at least one mounting member for mounting to the at least one edge of the water tank; and a tank screen or an inlet cover or a solar shield for mounting to one of the at least one mounting member, wherein each mounting member is adapted to be mounted into the inlet opening of the water tank and the tank screen or inlet cover or solar shield is adapted to be mounted onto one of the at least one mounting members without the use of additional fasteners, joiners and/or adhesives.

2. A fitting as claimed in claim 1 wherein the mounting is mounted into the inlet opening by snap fitting, by virtue of a friction fit, by provision of gripping teeth on the side wall of the inlet, by a combination of a screw and complementary thread on one of the inlet of the tank and the complementary part on the mounting member or by a clip arrangement.

3. A fitting as claimed in claim 2 wherein the mounting member is provided with a snap-fit mechanism that engages with the tank when the mounting member is inserted into the inlet of the tank.

4. A fitting as claimed in claim 1 wherein the mounting member is mounted to the water tank by use of fasteners or screws, or by use of an adhesive

5. A fitting as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the tank screen or inlet cover or solar shield is adapted to be mounted into the mounting member by snap fitting, by virtue of a friction fit, by provision of gripping teeth on the side wall of the mounting member, by a combination of a screw and complementary thread on one of the mounting member and the complementary part on the tank screen or inlet cover.

6. A fitting as claimed in claim 4 wherein the tank screen or inlet cover or solar shield is provided with a snap-fit mechanism that engages with the mounting member when the tank screen or inlet cover is inserted into the mounting member.

7. A fitting as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the at least one mounting member is substantially circular or ring shaped.

8. A fitting as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the at least one mounting member includes at least one side wall and at least one flange extending from the at least one side wall, the flange extending from an upper edge of the at least one side wall

9. A fitting as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the mounting member includes a surface that overlies an outside surface of the tank, the surface of the mounting member receiving one or more fasteners to fix the mounting member to the water tank or an adhesive located between the surface of the mounting member and the outer surface of the water tank fixing the mounting member to the water tank.

10. A fitting as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the mounting member has an opening for receiving a fitting for a water tank, the fitting comprising a base portion that, in use, is located in an inner volume of the water tank, the fitting being mounted in the tank by inserting the base of the fitting through the opening of the mounting member into the tank inlet, wherein the fitting is adapted to be mounted into the mounting member without the use of additional fasteners, joiners and/or adhesives.

11. A fitting as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the mounting member comprises a mounting ring having an annular region, a flange that, in use, overlies an outer surface of the water tank, a downwardly extending wall, one or more flexible arms extending outwardly from the downwardly extending wall, wherein when the mounting ring is inserted into the inlet of the tank, the one or more flexible arms flex inwardly due to contact with the inlet and spring outwardly once an upper end of the one or more flexible arms is within the tank such that a wall of the inlet of the tank is located between the upper end of the one or more flexible arms and the flange to thereby mount the mounting ring to the tank.

12. A fitting as claimed in claim 11 wherein the mounting ring has one or more apertures in the flange to accept fasteners, such as screws, to mount the mounting ring to the tank in instances where the inlet of the tank does not allow the one or more flexible arms to mount the mounting ring to the inlet.

13. A fitting as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the solar shield may include a base, at least one upwardly extending arm, each arm being substantially hook-shaped and resilient.

14. A fitting as claimed in claim 13 wherein the size and shape of at least a portion of each upwardly extending arm corresponds to the size and shape of one or more solar shield recesses of the mounting member.

15. A fitting as claimed in claim 13 or claim 14 wherein each upwardly extending arm includes a side wall extending upwardly from the solar shield base and an outwardly extending flange extending from an upper end of the side wall, each outwardly extending flange and at least a portion of the side wall defining a space for receiving a portion of the mounting member such that during mounting of the solar shield to the mounting member, each at least one outwardly extending flange deflects outwardly such that a portion of the mounting member enters the space or channel defined by at least a portion of the side wall and outwardly extending flange of each arm.

16. A fitting as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the tank screen comprises a base, at least one side wall extending upwardly from the base, and a rim extending outwardly from an upper end of the at least one side wall, the rim and at least a portion of the at least one side wall defining a channel, the rim enabling the tank screen to be snap-fit to the mounting member.

17. A fitting as claimed in claim 16 wherein the tank screen has a rim extending outwardly from the tank screen side wall, the rim including an outwardly extending portion adapted to overlie at least a portion of the upper portion of each first arm of the solar shield, the outwardly extending portion including a downwardly extending side wall including a lower most edge, the tank screen further including one or more engagement portions for engaging a corresponding engagement portion on at least the solar shield.

18. A fitting as claimed in claim 17 wherein each engagement portion extends from an inner side surface of the downwardly extending wall of the rim of the tank screen.

19. A fitting as claimed in claim 18 wherein each engagement portion include a substantially horizontal upper surface for abutting a substantially horizontal lower surface of the corresponding tank screen engagement portion.

20. A fitting as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the inlet cover comprises at least one upper wall and at least one downwardly extending side wall.

21. A fitting as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the inlet cover includes one or more engagement portions, each for engaging a corresponding engagement portion on the mounting member.

22. A fitting as claimed in claim 21 wherein each engagement portion extend inwardly from an inwardly facing surface of the side wall extending from the upper wall of the inlet cover.

23. A fitting as claimed in claim 22 wherein the inlet cover further includes one or more areas of weakness in the upper wall, each area of weakness may be easily cut out to allow for installation of cables or pipes or the alike.

24. A fitting as claimed in claim 23 wherein the area of weakness is located in a raised region on the cover.

25. A fitting as claimed in claim 23 or claim 24 wherein the hole or holes formed in the cover are fitted with a grommet.

26. A fitting as claimed in claim 25 wherein the grommet is made from a rubber or from a soft and flexible polymeric material and the grommet comprises an annular outer region having a top wall, the annular outer region having a circumferential channel extending therearound, wherein the edge of the hole extends into the channel when the grommet is fitted to the hole.

27. A fitting as claimed in claim 25 or claim 26 wherein the grommet may have an opening for a power cable and the grommet has one or more flaps formed in the top wall or cut into the top wall, or the grommet has one or more radial guidelines on the top wall, the one or more radial guidelines forming guides for cutting flaps or triangles into the top wall.

28. A method for fitting a fitting to a water tank, the water tank including at least one inlet opening defined by at least one edge of the water tank, the method comprising mounting at least one mounting member to the at least one inlet of the water tank; and mounting a tank screen or an inlet cover or a solar shield to one of the at least one mounting member, wherein each mounting member is adapted to be mounted into the inlet opening of the water tank and the tank screen or inlet cover or solar shield is adapted to be mounted onto one of the at least one mounting members without the use of additional fasteners, joiners and/or adhesives.

29. A method as claimed in claim 28 wherein the mounting member is mounted to the inlet without the use of additional fasteners, joiners and/or adhesives.

30. A method as claimed in claim 28 wherein the mounting member is mounted to the inlet using fasteners, such as screws, or by an adhesive.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0124] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:

[0125] FIG. 1 shows a cross section of a preferred embodiment of the present invention in a first orientation.

[0126] FIG. 1A shows an enlarged cross section portion of the preferred embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1.

[0127] FIG. 2 shows a cross section of the preferred embodiment of the present invention in a second orientation.

[0128] FIG. 2A shows an enlarged cross section portion of the preferred embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 2.

[0129] FIG. 3 shows a top view of the solar shield, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0130] FIG. 4 shows a side view of the solar shield shown in FIG. 3 in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0131] FIG. 5 shows a top view of the tank screen, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0132] FIG. 6 shows a side view of the tank screen as shown in FIG. 5, in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0133] FIG. 7 shows a top perspective view from above of the solar shield, shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, attached to a water tank inlet opening, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0134] FIG. 8 shows a perspective view from below of the solar shield attached to the water tank inlet opening, as shown in FIG. 7 from above, in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0135] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the tank screen, shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, mounted to the solar shield and fitted to the tank inlet opening, in the first orientation shown in FIGS. 1 and 1A, in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0136] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the tank screen, shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, mounted to the solar shield and fitted to the tank inlet opening, in the second orientation shown in FIGS. 2 and 2A, in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0137] FIG. 11 shows a mounting ring in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0138] FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of an inlet cover for use with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0139] FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of a solar shield in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0140] FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of a screen in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0141] FIGS. 15 to 17 show a mounting ring, solar shield and tank screen assembly when mounted to a water tank inlet in accordance with the second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0142] FIGS. 18 to 19 show a mounting ring and inlet cap assembly when mounted to a water tank inlet in accordance with the second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0143] FIGS. 20 to 22 show a mounting ring, solar shield and tank screen mounted to a first inlet and a mounting ring and inlet cap assembly mounted to a second inlet in accordance with the second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0144] FIG. 23 shows a mounting ring, solar shield and tank screen assembly mounted to a tank inlet from below in accordance with the second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0145] FIG. 24 shows a mounting ring and inlet cap assembly mounted to a tank inlet from below in accordance with the second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0146] FIG. 25 shows a top perspective view of a grommet suitable for use in embodiments of the present invention.

[0147] FIG. 26 shows a bottom perspective view of the grommet shown in FIG. 25.

[0148] FIG. 27 shows a cross-sectional view of the grommet shown in FIG. 25.

[0149] FIG. 28 shows a perspective view of the regions of the tank cover 1300 with the cut-out regions ready to be removed.

[0150] FIG. 29 shows the grommets fitted to the holes cut into the top of the tank cover.

[0151] FIG. 30 shows a pressure pipe and a power cable inserted through the grommets.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0152] A first preferred embodiment of the present invention, in the form of a solar shield and screen fitting 100 for a water tank 102, is shown in FIGS. 1 to 10. As can be best seen in FIGS. 7 to 10, water tank 102 includes a wall 104 defining an inlet opening. The water tank 102 is a metal or steel tank. The fittings of the present invention may also be used with plastic water tanks, although the inlet design of plastic water tanks will be different to steel tanks. In particular, the inlet of a plastic water tank will normally have a thicker wall thickness than a steel tank, or the inlet of a plastic tank will have an inwardly extending lip extending into the tank.

[0153] Turning to FIGS. 1 and 2, fitting 100 includes a solar shield 106 for mounting to an edge of wall 104, the edge of the wall defining the inlet opening. As can best be seen in FIGS. 3 and 4, solar shield 106 includes a base 108 defining a lower region, and three a first arms 110a, 110b, 110c extending upwardly from the base. Each first arm 110a, 110b, 110c includes a portion that overlies an external surface of wall 104 of the tank when the fitting 100 is fitted to the tank 102. The solar shield 106 further includes three pairs of second arms 112a, 112b, 112c extending upwardly from the base, and a solar shield portion 114 adapted to allow fluid to pass through. The number of second arms can vary from that shown in the drawings. As best shown in FIGS. 1-2, the first arms and the seconds arms, together, sandwich a portion of wall 104 of water tank 102 when the fitting is fitted to the tank. Advantageously, the preferred embodiment shown, the solar shield 106 is able to be snap fitted into the inlet opening when the fitting 100 is fitted to the tank without the use of additional fasteners, joiners and/or adhesives in a first orientation (as best shown in FIGS. 1 and 1a). In other embodiments, an alternative to the snap fit arrangement shown in the drawings may be provided. For example, the fitting might be friction-fitted into the opening, or the fitting may be provided with a screw or thread that can engage with a complementary thread or screw formed in a lip or wall extending around the inlet opening of a plastic tank, or the inlet or the fitting may be provides with a plurality of gripping teeth to grip or engage with the opening.

[0154] Turning back to FIGS. 3 and 4, in the preferred embodiment shown, base 108 is substantially circular. In other preferred embodiments, a skilled person would understand that the shape of the base may be any suitable shape, for example, any shape that substantially corresponds to the shape of the cross-sectional area of the water tank inlet opening to which solar shield 106 is to be attached. Similarly, in other preferred embodiments, a skilled person would understand that the size of base 108 may be any suitable size, for example, of a size substantially correspond to the size of the cross-sectional area of the water tank inlet opening to which solar shield 106 is to be attached.

[0155] As mentioned above, in the preferred embodiment shown, solar shield 106 includes three first arms 110a, 110b, 110c extending upwardly from base 108. In other embodiments, a skilled person however, would understand that the solar shield may include any number of first arms 110. Generally, the larger the base the more first arms 110 a particular embodiment will have.

[0156] Each first arm 110 includes a lower portion 116. As can best be seen in FIG. 4, the lower portion of each first arm 110 extends vertically from base 108.

[0157] Each first arm further 110 includes an upper portion 118 which extends perpendicularly and outwardly relative to lower portion 116. The portion that overlies external surface 103 of tank 102 when fitting 100 is fitted to the tank forms part of each upper portion 118 of each first arm 110.

[0158] Each first arm 110 further includes an intermediate portion 120. Each intermediate portion 120 bridges upper portion 118 and lower portion 116. Each intermediate portion 120 tapers inwardly from upper portion 118 towards lower portion 116. Advantageously, the intermediate portions 120 are adapted to guide tank screen 152 into a central position during mounting tank screen 152 to solar shield 106.

[0159] Solar shield 106 includes tank screen abutment surfaces 122 for abutting one or more external surfaces of the tank screen when the tank screen 152 is mounted to the solar shield 106. In the preferred embodiment shown, each first arm 110 includes a tank screen abutment surface. Each tank screen abutment surface 122 partially forms an inner surface of the intermediate portion 120 of each first arm 110. Advantageously, in preferred embodiments, the tank screen abutment surfaces 122 centrally locate the tank screen 152 relative to solar shield 106 after mounting (as shown best in FIGS. 1 and 2).

[0160] As mentioned above, solar shield 106 includes three pairs of second arms 112a, 112b, 112c. Each pair of second arms 112 corresponds to a first arm 110. As can best be seen in FIG. 3, each arm of each pair of second arms 112 is located either side of a corresponding first arm 110.

[0161] As best seen in FIG. 4, each second arm 112 extends upwardly and outwardly from base 108. In addition, each second arm 112 is shorter (in length) than each first arm 110. In preferred embodiments, each second arm 112 does not extend beyond the surface of first arms 110 which abuts the outer surface of water tank 102.

[0162] Each second arm 112 includes a resilient body 224. In preferred embodiments, each body 224, or at least a portion of each body 224, is adapted to deflect inwardly when the solar shield is being fitted to the water tank and adapted to deflect outwardly once solar shield 106 has been fitted to water tank 102.

[0163] Each second arm 112 includes a lower portion 126 and an upper portion 128, in the form of an end portion. Each lower portion 126 is substantially elongate and competitively longer than the end portion. Advantageously, in preferred embodiments, the longer the length of the lower portion the larger the deflection of the second arm.

[0164] Solar shield 106 further includes solar shield guide surfaces 130 for guiding the solar shield during fitting the solar shield into the water tank inlet. The solar shield guide surfaces 130 at least partially form an outer surface of an end portion of each second arm 112. Advantageously, in preferred embodiments, the solar shield guide surfaces 130 help guide the solar shield during fitting the solar shield to the water tank inlet.

[0165] Solar shield 106 further includes inner tank abutment portions 132 for abutting an inside surface 101 of water tank 102 once the solar shield 106 has been fitted to the water tank. In the embodiment shown, each inner tank abutment portion 132 forms part of second arms 112. In the embodiment shown, each second arm 112 includes a pair of inner tank abutment portions 132 which are along an upper edge of an upper portion 128 of each second arm 112.

[0166] Each inner tank abutment portion 132 extends upwardly from an upper edge of each second arm 112. In the preferred embodiment shown, each inner tank abutment portion 132 is in the form of a substantially dome-shaped protrusion. A skilled person, however, would understand that in other preferred embodiments, each inner tank abutment portion may be any size or shape. The protrusions may increase stiffness. The protrusions may form ribs.

[0167] Solar shield 106 further includes three third arms 134a, 134b, 134c. As can best be seen in FIG. 3, third arms 134a, 134b, 134c are evenly spaced round base 108 and extend upwardly and away therefrom.

[0168] In preferred embodiments, each third arm 134 includes a resilient body 134 adapted to deflect inwardly when fitting the solar shield 106 to the water tank 102. Each resilient body 134 includes an upper portion 136, that overlies an outer surface of the water tank when the fitting is fitted to the water tank, and a lower portion 138. Each upper portion 136 includes an abutment surface 140 for abutting the outer surface of the water tank 102 when the solar shield 106 is fitted to the water tank 102.

[0169] The solar shield 106 further includes three apertures 142. Apertures 142 are adapted to receive a fastener (not shown). Each aperture 142 is defined by the upper portion 118 of each first arm 110. The location of each aperture 142 corresponds to a corresponding aperture defined by the tank screen.

[0170] The solar shield 106 further includes three tank screen engagement portions 144, each for engaging a corresponding solar shield engagement portion. Each tank screen engagement portion 144 forms part of each of one of first arms 110.

[0171] Each tank screen engagement portion 144 includes a boss 146. As can best be seen in FIG. 4, each boss 146 is substantially elongate and is substantially ridge shaped. As can best be seen in FIG. 1A, each boss 146 includes a substantially horizontal lower surface and a substantially angled upper surface. Each boss 146 extends outwardly from an outer side of each upper portion 118 of each first arm 110.

[0172] As mentioned above, solar shield 106 includes a solar shield portion 148. In the preferred embodiment shown, solar shield portion 148 forms part of base 108.

[0173] Solar shield portion 148 includes apertures 150 for allowing the fluid to pass through. Apertures 150 are evenly spaced around the solar shield portion 148. Advantageously, fluid is evenly distributed around the solar shield portion so that when the fluid enters into the water tank, the fluid is distributed about an area in order to minimise aggregation of sediment that may be present in the water tank.

[0174] The fitting further includes a tank screen 152 for covering the solar shield 106 and minimising the amount of debris allowed to enter the water tank. As best shown in FIGS. 1 and 1A, tank screen 152 is removably mountable to solar shield 106 without the use of additional fasteners, adhesives or joiners, in a first orientation. As best shown in FIGS. 2 and 2A, tank screen 152 is removably mountable to the solar shield using fasteners, in a second orientation.

[0175] Turning to FIGS. 5 and 6, tank screen 152 includes a base 154, at least one side wall 156 extending upwardly from base 152, and a rim 158 extending outwardly from an upper end of side wall 156. Rim 158 and a portion of side wall 156 define a channel 160 (best shown in FIGS. 1A and 2A).

[0176] In preferred embodiments, base 154 may be any particular size or shape. A skilled person would understand that the size and shape of the base substantially corresponds to the size and shape of solar shield 106. Nevertheless, in most embodiment, such as the one shown, base 154 will be substantially circular.

[0177] Base 154 includes a tank screen portion 163 adapted to allow fluid to pass through. In the preferred embodiment shown, the tank screen 163 portion is convex-shaped. Advantageously, debris caught by the tank screen portion may move to the sides of tank screen portion 163.

[0178] As can best be seen in FIG. 6, side wall 156 of tank screen 152 tapers inwardly from rim 158 towards base 154. Side wall 156 includes an outer surface for abutting the tank screen abutment portions 122 of solar shield 106.

[0179] As mentioned above, rim 158 extends outwardly from side wall 156. Rim 158 includes an outwardly extending portion 162 adapted to overlie the upper portions 118 of each first arm 110 of solar shield 106. Outwardly extending portion 162 includes a downwardly extending side wall including a lower most edge 164. As can best be seen in FIGS. 1, 1A, 2 and 2A, lower edge 164 abuts outer wall 103 of the water tank 102. Advantageously, the lower most edge of the rim may aid in locating the tank screen relative to water tank 102.

[0180] As best shown in FIG. 1A, tank screen 152 further includes solar shield engagement portions 166. In the embodiment shown, tank screen 152 includes three solar shield engagement portions. Each solar shield engagement portion 166 corresponds to a tank screen engagement portion 146. Each solar shield engagement portion 166 extends from an inner side surface of the downwardly extending wall of the rim 158 towards side wall 156.

[0181] In the preferred embodiment shown, each solar shield engagement portion 166 is in the form of an elongate protrusion having a substantially horizontal upper surface for abutting a substantially horizontal lower surface of the corresponding tank screen engagement portion. Each solar shield engagement portion 166 further includes a substantially angled lower surface. During fitting tank screen 152 to solar shield 106, each solar shield engagement portion 166 engages a corresponding tank screen engagement portion 146 causing each tank screen engagement portion to deflect inwardly allowing each solar shield engagement portion to pass over each corresponding tank screen engagement portion and allowing each solar shield engagement portion to then deflect back outwardly, thereby securing the tank screen to the solar shield, as shown best in FIGS. 1 and 1A.

[0182] Tank screen 152 further includes three tabs 160a, 168b, 168c extending outwardly from rim 158. Tabs 168a, 168b, 168c are evenly spaced around rim 158. A skilled person would understand that the number of tabs 168 corresponds to the number of solar shield engagement portions 166. Accordingly, other preferred embodiment may have more or less than three tabs.

[0183] Tank screen 152 further includes three bores 170 adapted to receive a tool. Each bore is defined by on of tabs 168. Each of bores 170 is closed ended. A skilled person would understand that the bore may be any particular size or shape. For example, in the embodiment shown, the bore is sized to receive the end of a screw driver. Advantageously, a tool may be inserted into each bore and used to lever the rim of the tank screen away from an outer surface of the solar shield, thereby allowing the screen tank engagement member to disengage from the corresponding solar shield engagement member facilitating the release of the tank screen from the solar shield.

[0184] Tank screen 152 further includes three apertures 172, each for receiving a fastener. Apertures 172 are positioned to align with apertures 142 located on solar shield 106 when the tank screen is in the second mounting orientation as shown best in FIGS. 2 and 2A. Advantageously, in preferred embodiments, the tank screen may be fastened to the solar shield using one or more fasteners, in the form of one or more screws.

[0185] Tank screen 152 further includes first tactile formations 174. Each first tactile formation 174 corresponds to one of apertures 172 for receiving a fastener. Tank screen 152 further includes second tactile formations 176. Each second tactile formation corresponds to one of bores 170 for receiving a tool. As shown best in FIG. 7, each of the first tactile formations 174 and second tactile formations 176 alternate in order around the upper surface of the rim 158.

[0186] First tactile formations 174 and second tactile formations 176 are in the form of one or more ridges or protrusions. A skilled person would understand that first tactile formations 174 and second tactile formations 176 may be any size or shape so long as the first tactile formations 174 are different from the second tactile formations 176. Advantageously, a user is able to feel via touch the orientation of the tank screen without sight.

[0187] FIGS. 7 to 10 show a preferred method of installing fitting 100 to a water tank inlet opening. In particular, FIGS. 7 and 8 show solar shield 106 mounted to the water tank inlet opening. As can be best seen in FIG. 7, the abutment surfaces of first arms 110 and the abutment surfaces of third arms 134 are abutting external surface 103 of the water tank. Further, as best shown in FIG. 8, abutment portions 132 are abutting internal surface 101 of the water tank 102. Advantageously, solar shield 106 snap fits into the inlet opening without the use of additional fasteners, joiners and/or adhesives. Further, first arms 110 and second arms 112 sandwich a portion of the wall of the water tank when fitted to the tank. Once solar shield 106 has been fitted to the inlet opening, tank screen 152 is fitting over the top, as best shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. In particular, FIG. 9 shows tank screen 152 mounted to solar shield 106 in the first orientation and FIG. 10 shows tank screen 152 mounted to solar shield 106 in the second orientation.

[0188] Another preferred embodiment of the invention, in the form of a fitting for a water tank 1001A As shown in FIGS. 11 to 25, the water tank including an inlet opening 1002 defined by an edge of the water tank. The fitting includes at mounting member 1100 for mounting to the edge of the water tank. The fitting further includes a tank screen 1200 (FIG. 14) or an inlet cover 1300 (FIG. 12) for mounting to a respective mounting member 1100a, 1100b, wherein the respective mounting member 1100a, 1100b is adapted to snap fit into the inlet opening 1002 and the tank screen 1200 or inlet cover 1300 is adapted to snap fit onto one of the mounting members 1100a, 1100b without the use of additional fasteners, joiners and/or adhesives. Similarly, the fitting may further include a solar shield 1300 (FIG. 13) that mounts to or locks to the mounting member 1100.

[0189] Turning to FIG. 11, each mounting member 1100 is substantially circular. Further, each mounting member 1100 is ring shaped. In the embodiment shown, mounting member 1100 is permanently mounted to the at least one edge of the water tank inlet opening 1002 as shown best in FIGS. 15, 18 and 21. In other embodiments (not shown), the mounting member is removably mounted to the water tank inlet opening 1002. Advantageously, the mounting member covers the at least one edge which is typically sharp on a steel tank.

[0190] Each mounting member 1100 includes a side wall 1004 and a flange 1006 extending from an upper edge of the side wall. Each mounting member 1100 includes an abutment surface 1008 for abutting an exterior surface of the water tank. The abutment surface forms part of a lower surface of the flange 1006. Mounting member 1100 further includes a guide surface 1010 for guiding the at least one mounting member 1100 during mounting to the inlet. In the preferred embodiment shown, side wall 1004 includes the guide surface 1010. In some embodiments, the side wall may taper outwardly in an upwards direction from a free edge and towards the flange.

[0191] Each mounting member 1100 includes multiple protrusions 1012 extending from an outer surface of the side wall. Each protrusion includes an angled side wall (best shown in FIGS. 24 and 25). Each protrusion 1012 further includes an upper abutment surface for abutting an interior surface of the water tank once mounted to the water tank inlet 1002. Advantageously, in use, each abutment surface of the flange and the upper abutment surfaces of protrusions 1012 sandwich a wall of water tank 1001 that defines the edge of water tank inlet opening 1002 once mounting member 1100 is mounted to the inlet opening in order to securing mounting member 1100 to the water tank. The protrusions 1012 function as flexible walls that extend outwardly from the downwardly extending wall 1004 of the mounting ring 1100.

[0192] In preferred embodiments, each mounting member 1100 includes one or more recesses 1014 for locating solar shield 1400. In the preferred embodiment shown, each mounting member 1100 includes three recesses 1014. Recesses 1014 are evenly spaced around a perimeter of mounting member 1100. Flange 1006 of mounting member 1100 defines recesses 1014. In the preferred embodiment shown, each recess 1014 is substantially elongate and extends around a portion of the perimeter of flange 1006. Each recess 1014 extends from an outer perimeter edge of flange 1006 and toward the centre of the mounting member 1100.

[0193] In preferred embodiments, each mounting member 1100 includes one or more locating portions 1016 for locating a tank screen 1200 or inlet cover 1300. In the preferred embodiment shown, each mounting member 1100 includes three locating portions 1016 for locating a tank screen 1200 or inlet cover 1300. The locating portions are evenly spaced around the perimeter of mounting member 1100. In some preferred embodiments, the location of each locating portion corresponds to the location of at least one protrusion 1012. In the preferred embodiment shown, the location of each locating portion 1016 corresponds to the location of each pair of protrusions 1012.

[0194] In preferred embodiments, each locating portion 1016 includes one or more locating recesses. In the preferred embodiment shown, each portion 1016 includes a pair of locating recesses 1018. Each pair of locating recesses 1018 is separated by a dividing member 1024. Each recess 1018 includes an abutment surface for abutting at least a portion of the tank screen 1200 or inlet cover 1300.

[0195] In preferred embodiments, each locating portion 1016 further includes at least one engagement portion 1020, which is similar to engagement portion 146 as described with reference to FIG. 2A. Each engagement portion 1020 may be an inlet cover 1300 engagement portion for engaging a corresponding engagement portion on the mounting member 1100 or a tank screen 1200 engagement portion for engaging a corresponding engagement portion on the tank screen 1200. The mounting ring 1100 also includes apertures 1025 that can receive screws in instances where the installer may wish to screw the mounting ring to the water tank. A different number of apertures 1025 may be provided to that as shown in FIG. 11 and the apertures 1025 may be provided in different locations, although it will be appreciated that the apertures 1025 will normally be provided in the upper surface of flange 1006.

[0196] In preferred embodiments, each tank screen 1200/inlet cover 1300 may include one or more apertures adapted to receive a fastener. In the preferred embodiment shown, each tank screen 1200/inlet cover 1300 includes three apertures 1022/1036 adapted to receive a fastener. The apertures 1022/1036 are evenly spaced around the perimeter of the mounting member 1100. Each dividing member 1024 defines an aperture 1025 in the mounting member.

[0197] Turning to FIGS. 13 and 14, the fitting includes tank screen 1200, for covering the water tank inlet opening 1002 and minimising the amount of debris allowed to enter the water tank, or inlet cover 1300. In the embodiment shown, the tank screen 1200 is mountable to the mounting member 1100 without the use of additional fasteners, adhesives or joiners. In other embodiments, the tank screen 1200 is mountable to the mounting member 1100 using fasteners, adhesives and/or joiners. Similarly, in the embodiment shown, inlet cover 1300 is mountable to the mounting member 1100 without the use of additional fasteners, adhesives or joiners. In other embodiments, inlet cover 1300 is mountable to the mounting member 1100 using fasteners, adhesives and/or joiners. In the preferred embodiment shown, the tank screen 1200 is removably mountable to the mounting member 1100.

[0198] Turning to FIG. 14, tank screen 1200 includes the features of the tank screen described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. The tank screen 1200 includes one or more engagement portions for mounting the tank screen to mounting member 1100.

[0199] Turning to FIG. 12, in some embodiments, the fitting includes an inlet cover 1300. The inlet cover 1300 is substantially circular. The inlet cover 1300 includes at least one upper wall 1026 which is substantially solid. Advantageously, when inlet cover 1300 is mounted to a mounting member 1100, entry of water, debris or insects though the mounting member 1100 is prevented and hence entry through the inlet of the tank to which mounting member 1100 is mounted is also prevented.

[0200] Inlet cover 1300 includes a downwardly extending side wall 1028. The downwardly extending side wall extends around the perimeter of upper wall 1026. The downwardly extending side wall includes an inner facing surface.

[0201] In preferred embodiments, the inlet cover 1300 includes one or more engagement portions, each for engaging a corresponding engagement portion on the mounting member 1100. Each engagement portion is the same as the engagement portions on the tank screen as described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6 above. Each engagement portion extends inwardly from the inwardly facing surface of the side wall 1028 extending from upper wall 1026. Advantageously, inlet cover 1300 may be mounted to the mounting member 1100 when the tank screen 1200 is not.

[0202] In preferred embodiments, the inlet cover 1300 further includes at least one or more tabs similar to tabs 160a, 168b, 168c as described above. In the preferred embodiment shown, the inlet cover 1300 includes three tabs 1030 evenly spaced apart around a perimeter of the cover. Each of the tabs 1030 extends from a rim of upper wall 1026 of the inlet cover 1300.

[0203] In preferred embodiments, the inlet cover 1300 includes at least one or more bores, the same or similar to the one or more bores as described in relation to the tank screen 1200 above, for receiving a tool. In the embodiment shown, the inlet cover 1300 includes three bores 1032, each bore 1032 being defined by a portion of one of tabs 1030.

[0204] In the preferred embodiments, the inlet cover 1300 includes one or more apertures, the same or similar to the one or more apertures as described in relation to the tank screen 1200 above, for receiving a fastener. In the embodiments shown, the inlet cover 1300 includes three apertures 1036. Each aperture 1036 corresponds to an aperture 1025 in the mounting member 1100 such that when mounted to the mounting member 1100, each aperture 1036 for receiving a fastener in the inlet cover 1300 corresponds to an aperture 1025 for receiving a fastener in the mounting member 1100. Advantageously, in use, one or more fasteners may be used to fasten the inlet cover 1300 to the mounting member 1100. Alternatively, the mounting ring 1100 can be screwed to the water tank and the cover can be clipped to the mounting ring. Alternatively, the mounting ring 1100 may have additional apertures 1025 that allow the mounting ring 1100 to be screwed to the water tank and aligned apertures 1025 that allow the cover 1300 to be screwed to the mounting ring.

[0205] In preferred embodiments, the inlet cover 1300 includes one or more tactile portions as described in relation to the tank screen described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. Each tactile portion 1034 corresponds to one of bores 1032, apertures 1036, tabs 1034 or any combination thereof. In the preferred embodiment shown, each tactile portion 1034 is in the form of a plurality of ridges. The plurality of ridges are spaced apart from one another.

[0206] The top wall 1026 of the cover 1300 includes regions 1027. The regions 2017 may be raised regions. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the cover has 3 regions 2017. Each region 1027 has two regions 1029, 1031 that are defined by circular lines of weakness or lines of reduced wall thickness. The regions 1029, 1031 enable an installer to cut out circular holes in the top wall 1026 for passage of a pressure pipe and a power cable for a submersible pump located inside the water tank. Grommets (to be described hereunder) may be fitted to the holes thus made. By providing a number of regions 1027 (three are shown in FIG. 12), the installer can choose the most appropriate region in which to cut holes to most easily facilitate installation of the pressure pipe and power cable.

[0207] In another embodiment, the inlet cover 1300 may include one or more areas of weakness (not shown). Each area of weakness will form part of the upper wall 1026. Each area of weakness will be, or will substantially be, circular. In preferred embodiments, each area of weakness will be in the form of one or more recesses. In preferred embodiments, each recess will extend downwardly from upper surface 1026 of the upper wall but not extend through the upper wall. Advantageously, each area of weakness may be easily cut out to allow for installation of cables, pipes or the alike.

[0208] The fitting 1000 may further include a solar shield 1400 as best shown in FIG. 13. The solar shield 1400 includes a base 1038. The solar shield 1400 is generally similar to the solar shield as described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. In use, at least a portion of the solar shield 1400 rests upon a portion of the at least one mounting member 1100, as best shown in FIG. 16.

[0209] In preferred embodiments, the solar shield 1400 includes at least one upwardly extending arm. In the preferred embodiment shown, the solar shield 1400 includes three upwardly extending arms 1040. The upwardly extending arms 1040 are evenly spaced around a perimeter of base 1038. The location of each upwardly extending arm around the base will correspond to the location of the recesses 1014 of mounting member 1100. As can be seen in FIG. 13, each arm 1040 is substantially hook-shaped. In preferred embodiments, such as the one shown, the size and shape of a portion of each upwardly extending arm corresponds to the size and shape of a corresponding recess 1014 of the mounting member 1100. In preferred embodiments, each upwardly extending arm 1040, or at least a portion of the upwardly extending arm, is resiliently formed.

[0210] Each upwardly extending arm 1040 includes a side wall 1042 extending upwardly from base 1038 and an outwardly extending flange 1044 extending from an upper end of the side wall. Each outwardly extending flange 1044 and/or side wall 1042 is resilient. Each outwardly extending flange 1044 is substantially L-shaped. Each outwardly extending flange 1044 and at least a portion of the side wall 1042 together define a space or channel 1046 for receiving a portion of mounting member 1100. During mounting of solar shield 1400 to mounting member 1100, each at least one outwardly extending flange 1044 deflects outwardly such that a portion of the mounting member 1100 enters the space 1046 defined by at least a portion of the side wall 1042 and outwardly extending flange 1044 of each arm 1040. In use, each outwardly extending flange 1044 may overlie at least a portion of flange 1006 as best shown in FIG. 16 and the downwardly extending outer lip of flange 1044 suitably rests over and engages with the outer edge of the flange 1006 of the mounting member 1100 so that the solar shield 1400 clips to the mounting member 1100. It will be noted that although the solar shield 1400 shown in FIG. 13 is generally similar to the solar shield shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the solar shield 1400 omits the second arms 112 of the solar shield shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, with the springiness of arms 1040 and the channels 1046 being sufficient to mount the solar shield 1040 to the mounting ring 1100.

[0211] In some embodiments, the solar shield 1400 may include one or more protrusions. In particular, the solar shield 1400 may include three protrusions on each outwardly extending flange 1044. Each one or more protrusions may be any particular size or shape suitable for aiding in deflecting an upwardly extending arm. In the preferred embodiment shown, however, each protrusion is an elongate ridge extending upwardly from upper surface of each flange 1044. Advantageously, each protrusion may be grasped or handled so that it can be used to deflect the side wall of each arm inwardly such that the portion of the mounting member received within the space defined by at least a portion of the side wall and outwardly extending flange of each arm is released. This assists in releasing the solar shield 1400 from the mounting member 1100, for example, to clean or replace the solar shield.

[0212] Turning to FIGS. 15 to 17, these figures show the order for assembling fitting 1000 to a water tank inlet opening. As can be seen in FIG. 16, mounting member 1100 is first mounted to an edge defining the inlet opening of the water tank. Solar shield 1400 is then optionally mounted to mounting member 1100. Solar shield 1400 may either be rested upon mounting member 1100 or secured via snap fitting flanges 1044 around at least a portion of rim 1006. FIG. 17 shows tank screen 1200 being secured over the top of mounting member 1100. In another embodiment, the tank screen 1200 may be fitted to the mounting member 1100 without requiring the solar shield to be first fitted to the mounting member 1100. The tank screen may be fitted to the solar shield using similar fitments as shown in FIGS. 1, 1A, 2 and 2A. The tank screen may be fitted to the mounting member using similar fitments as shown in FIGS. 1, 1A, 2 and 2A, by providing the mounting member with fitments that are similar to the fitments used to mount the tank screen to the solar shield as shown in FIGS. 1, 1A, 2 and 2A.

[0213] Turning to FIGS. 18 to 19, these figures show an order for assembling fitting 1000 to another water tank inlet. As can best be seen in FIG. 18, mounting member 1100 is first mounted to an edge defining the inlet opening, then inlet cover 1300 is secured to mounting member 1100.

[0214] FIGS. 20 to 22 show a water tank including duel inlet openings 1002a and 1002b. FIGS. 20 to 22 show the same mounting process as described above in relation to FIGS. 15 to 17 (to inlet 1002b) and FIGS. 18 to 19 (to inlet 1002a). FIG. 23 further shows fitting 1000 including mounting member 1100, solar shield 1400 and tank screen 1300 when mounted to inlet 1002b from below. FIG. 24 shows fitting 1000 including mounting member 1100 and inlet cover 1300 when mounted to inlet 1002a from below.

[0215] FIGS. 25 to 27 show various views of a grommet 1600 suitable for use in embodiments of the present invention. The grommet 1600 is to be made from rubber, such as a synthetic rubber or natural rubber, or a soft and flexible polymer material. The grommet 1600 has an annular outer region 1602 and a top wall 1604. The top wall 1604 has a small opening 1606 formed therein and a plurality of lines 1608 formed therein. The lines 1608 are arranged in a radial pattern emanating from the centre of the top 1604. Guidelines 1610 and 1612 are formed in the top and bottom, respectively, of the annular outer region 1602. As best shown in FIG. 27, an annular channel 1614 extends around the annual region of the grommet 1600.

[0216] In order to allow a submersible pump to be properly fitted to the water tank, a cover 1300 is mounted to a mounting ring 1100 which, is itself, mounted to the top of the water tank. As then shown in FIG. 28, the regions 1029, 1031 that are each delineated by a circular line of weakness or reduced wall thickness are removed, for example, by using a cutting saw or by using a hole cut drill. Grommets 1600 are then fitted to the holes thus formed. This is shown in FIG. 29. In particular, the annular channels 1614 of the grommets 1600 receive the respective edges of the holes when the grommets 1600 are positioned in the holes. As the grommets are made from a rubber material from a soft and flexible polymer material, the grommets can form a seal around the hole.

[0217] Prior to fitting the grommet 1600 to the hole 1606 that is designed to receive the power cable of the submersible pump, the annular rim of the grommet 1600 is cut along guidelines 1610, 1612 so that a cut extends from the hole 1606 to the outside edge of the grommet. The power cable of the submersible pump can then be slid through the opening created by that cut, with the power cable then being snugly received in the opening 1606. The grommet can then be fitted to the hole that has been cut in the top of the water tank cover 1300. After insertion, the grommet can be rotated to the best position for the cable. It is noted that the cable hole 1606 is off to one side of the grommet 1600 so that no gap can open up around the power cable to allow mosquitoes into the water tank. As the hole is off to one side of the grommet 1600, the cut edge of the grommet 1600 is jammed closed after pushing the grommet into the hole that has been cut in the cover.

[0218] In order to fit a pressure pipe for the submersible pump, the installer will cut along the radial guidelines 1608 in the top wall 1604 of the grommet 1600. The annular rim 1602 of the grommet is not cut. By cutting along the radial guidelines 1608, a series of flaps or triangles are formed in the top wall 1602 of the grommet. The grommet can then be inserted into the hole that has been cut into the top wall of the tank cover 1300. The pipe for the submersible pump can then be pushed through the grommet. This causes the flaps or triangles to flex downwardly out of the way whilst also leaving no gaps around the outside of the pressure pipe. This prevents mosquitoes entering the water tank. For smaller diameter pipes, the installer can slit the top wall of the grommet a lesser distance along the guidelines, which creates small flaps and a smaller effective opening.

[0219] FIG. 30 shows a power cable 1620 inserted through the opening 1606 in one grommet and a pressure pipe 1622 inserted through the opening formed in the top wall of grommet by way of cutting along the guidelines 1608. Use of the grommets in this manner facilitates formation of a mosquito proof mounting of the power cable and pressure pump for a submersible pump inside the tank.

[0220] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word ‘comprising’ and its derivatives including ‘comprises’ and ‘comprise’ include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[0221] Reference throughout this specification to ‘one embodiment’ or ‘an embodiment’ means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases ‘in one embodiment’ or ‘in an embodiment’ in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[0222] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.