SYSTEMS, APPARATUS, AND METHODS USEFUL FOR ENHANCED MAINTENANCE OF STORMWATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

Abstract

An embodiment of apparatus useful for chamber-type stormwater management systems includes an inclined surface comprising a first end and a second end. The ramp is configured to connect to a chamber end cap having a stub pipe centrally disposed therethrough. The ramp is connected to the stub pipe at the second end of the ramp, a ramp surface inclined to form a slope rising from the first end to the second end.

Claims

1. A ramp apparatus useful for chamber-type stormwater management systems, comprising: an inclined surface comprising a first end and a second end, wherein the ramp is configured to connect to a chamber end cap comprising a stub pipe at the second end, and wherein the ramp is configured to fit within a chamber of a chamber-type stormwater management system.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, the ramp further comprising feet configured to support the ramp, the feet located at the first end of the ramp.

3. A ramp and end cap system, comprising: a ramp comprising an inclined surface, the ramp comprising a first end and a second end, and configured to connect to a chamber end cap; and a chamber end cap configured for a chamber-type stormwater management system and having an interior surface facing an interior of a chamber enclosure formed by a chamber and the end cap.

4. The system of claim 3, the ramp further comprising feet configured to support the ramp, the feet located at the first end of the ramp.

5. The system of claim 3, the chamber end cap further comprising: a stub pipe having a first end and a second end, the second end configured to extend within a chamber connected to the end cap.

6. The system of claim 5, the ramp connected to the end cap by the stub pipe.

7. The system of claim 5, comprising: a chamber; a chamber enclosure comprising the chamber connected to the end cap, the ramp disposed within an interior of the chamber enclosure.

8. The system of claim 7, comprising the ramp directly connected to the stub pipe.

9. The system of claim 8, comprising the ramp directly connected to, and configured to conform to a periphery a the first end of the stub pipe.

10. The system of claim 9, the stub pipe further comprising a cylindrical shape.

11. The system of claim 9, the ramp further comprising: a ramp surface configured to conform to a shape of the first end of the stub pipe.

12. The system of claim 7, the ramp further comprising a width less than a width of the chamber.

13. The system of claim 10, the ramp configured to be fitted to the cylindrically shaped stub pipe.

14. The system of claim 3, the ramp further comprising polypropylene.

15. The system of claim 3, the ramp further comprising high density polyethylene.

16. The system of claim 3, the ramp further comprising a material selected from the group of materials comprising steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and fiberglass.

17. A method useful for forming a ramp and chamber end cap system, comprising: providing a ramp having a first end and a second end, and a ramp surface configured to incline from the first end to the second end, the ramp surface formed to enhance flowability of fluid and passage of debris, the ramp configured to connect to a chamber end cap of a chamber-type stormwater management system.

18. The method of claim 17, comprising: providing a chamber end cap comprising a stub pipe; and attaching or fitting the ramp to the chamber end cap.

19. The method of claim 18, comprising: providing a chamber useful for stormwater management systems; and attaching the ramp and end cap system to the chamber.

20. The method of claim 17, comprising: providing a support member attached to or extending from the ramp, the support member configured to support the ramp in operation.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0025] The disclosure is shown by way of example in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements.

[0026] FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of chamber configured with a ramp in accordance with an embodiment;

[0027] FIG. 2 shows a perspective overhead view of a chamber end cap;

[0028] FIG. 3 shows a perspective overhead view of a ramp and chamber end cap in accordance with an embodiment;

[0029] FIG. 4 shows a perspective overhead view of chamber including a ramp and chamber end cap in accordance with an embodiment;

[0030] FIG. 5 shows a perspective overhead view of a ramp and chamber end cap in accordance with an embodiment;

[0031] FIG. 6 shows a perspective bottom view of chamber including a ramp and chamber end cap in accordance with an embodiment;

[0032] FIG. 7 shows a flow diagram including processes for forming a ramp and chamber end cap system in accordance with an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0033] In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of exemplary embodiments. It should be apparent, however, that exemplary embodiments may be practiced without these specific details or with an equivalent arrangement. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring exemplary embodiments. In addition, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, ratios, and numerical properties of ingredients, reaction conditions, and so forth used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term about.

[0034] A solution is provided by embodiments disclosed herein to the recognized need for further enhancing ease of chamber maintenance in chamber-type stormwater management systems, for methods that enhances chamber cleaning efficacy. In particular, apparatus and methods in accordance with embodiments enable effective cleaning of chamber-type stormwater management systems for removing cleaning equipment and sediment and debris. Solutions are disclosed including systems, apparatus, and methods that, inter alia, prevent debris from collecting on an interior surface side of an end cap of the chamber.

[0035] In an embodiment, a ramp apparatus is provided that is constructed and arranged to attach to a chamber useful for a chamber-type stormwater management system. In particular, the ramp is constructed and arranged to attach to an interior surface of an end cap of a chamber of a stormwater management system. In this configuration, fluid and solid materials exit an interior of the chamber by traversing the ramp and passing through an exit defined by the end cap of the chamber. For example, the ramp may be left in place during use of the stormwater system for ready available for periodic cleaning.

[0036] The ramp apparatus is configured to improve chamber function over time, and has a shape, form, and profile that is non-obtrusive and does not frustrate chamber function. For example, the ramp apparatus provides an inclined surface from a ground on which the chamber is positioned to a exit passage at an end of the chamber. The ramp apparatus is shaped to guide fluid and debris through the exit and away from the portions of the chamber interior at which debris and sediment that otherwise collects in related art systems, such as at the end cap interior around the exit of the chamber.

[0037] In an embodiment, the ramp is configured for retrofitting on an interior of, for example, removable end caps to form a ramp and chamber end cap system. Stormwater management systems having a ramp apparatus in accordance with embodiments prevent clogs in inlets of chambers and enhance cleaning effectiveness and efficiency.

[0038] FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of chamber configured with a ramp apparatus in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. In particular, FIG. 1 shows a ramp and chamber end cap system 100 including an end cap and ramp connected to a chamber configured for stormwater management. A chamber 103 is connected to an end cap, an interior 105 of the end facing an interior of the chamber to form an enclosure when positioned on the ground.

[0039] FIG. 1 shows an interior 105 of the end cap. A ramp 107 is connected to the end cap interior 105 by way of a stub pipe (not shown). The stub pipe is constructed and arranged to provide a passageway from an interior of the chamber 103 to an exterior thereof. The chamber 103 may be of any suitable size and form, and the ramp 107 may be sized and shaped to a particular chamber size or form, and a particular stub pipe size and form.

[0040] The ramp 107 shown in FIG. 1 shows an advantageous configuration wherein the ramp 107 inclines from a first bottom end upwards toward a second top end, relative to a bottom of the connected chamber 103. The ramp 107 is formed to surround a portion of the periphery of the interior end of the stub pipe at an interior 105 of the end cap. A surface of the ramp 107 formed to facilitate effective and rapid passage of fluid and materials through the interior end of the stub pipe to exit the chamber 103.

[0041] The ramp 107 may take any suitable shape and form that provides an inclined surface extending from a bottom of a chamber enclosure interior to an exit thereof formed by a stub pipe of an end cap. In an embodiment, the ramp 107 is formed of polypropylene or high density polyethylene. In alternative embodiments, the ramp 107 may be formed of materials selected from the group of materials including steel, stainless steel, aluminum, fiberglass, and other like now known or later developed materials.

[0042] The ramp 107 is fastened to the stub pipe at an end thereof that directly connects to the interior of the chamber enclosure. The stub pipe may be formed by any now known or later developed methods and materials and configured for fluid delivery. The stub pipe connected to the ramp 107 shown in FIG. 1 has a cylindrical shape. The ramp 107 may be fastened to the stub pipe by any now known or later developed suitable mechanisms, materials, and methods. In an alternative embodiment, the ramp 107 may be attached directly to the interior 105 of the end cap, or may be attached directly to both the ramp 107 and the interior 105.

[0043] FIG. 2 shows a perspective overhead view of a chamber end cap including a stub pipe 211 extending through an opening defined in the end cap. The end cap is dome shaped and flared, and configured to connect to an open end of a chamber. A first end 211 of the stub pipe 213 extends away from an exterior side surface (not shown) of the end cap, while a second end 215 of the stub pipe 211 extends away from an interior surface 105 of the end cap.

[0044] FIG. 3 shows a perspective overhead view of a ramp and chamber end cap system in accordance with an embodiment. In particular, FIG. 3 shows a ramp and end cap 300 including a flared end cap interior surface 105 and a ramp 107 connected thereto. The ramp 107 is configured and arranged to prevent debris and solid contaminants from collecting and becoming lodged at the interior surface 105 of the end cap. Accordingly, debris and solid contaminants are guided up the ramp and through the passageway defined by the stub pipe 211 during maintenance and cleaning. The ramp 107 prevents the debris and solid contaminants from collecting at the end cap interior surface 105, and guides the debris and solid contaminants along with fluid through an exit from the interior of the chamber provided by the stub pipe 211. Additionally, a nozzle or other component of a jetvac system or other chamber maintenance device will not become lodged and caught on an interior of the end cap.

[0045] FIG. 4 shows a perspective overhead view of a ramp and chamber end cap system in accordance with an embodiment. In particular, FIG. 4 shows an assembled ramp and chamber end cap system 100. The system 100 includes a chamber 103 and with the end cap and ramp apparatus 300 connected thereto.

[0046] FIG. 4 shows an exterior surface 425 of the end cap 300, and a stub pipe 211. The stub pipe 211 includes a first end 213 extending from the exterior surface 425 of the end cap 300. The stub pipe 211 extends transversely through the end cap, with a second, interior end 215 extending away from an interior surface (not shown) of the end cap 300 and communicating with a ramp in an interior of the chamber and end cap configuration. The stub pipe 211 may be welded, for example, at the interface with the end cap surface 425.

[0047] FIG. 5 shows a perspective overhead view of a ramp and chamber end cap in accordance with an embodiment. In particular, FIG. 5 shows a ramp and end cap system 300 as shown in FIG. 3, modified in accordance with an alternative embodiment. FIG. 3 shows a ramp and end cap 300 including a flared end cap interior surface 105 and a ramp 107 connected thereto. The ramp 107 is configured and arranged to prevent debris and solid contaminants from collecting and becoming lodged at the interior surface 105 of the end cap. Accordingly, debris and solid contaminants are guided up the ramp and through the passageway defined by the stub pipe 211 during maintenance and cleaning. The ramp 107 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5 includes supports or feet 531.

[0048] The supports 531 may be configured as shown in FIG. 6 to extend beyond a width of the chamber, and underneath bottom edges of sides of the chamber to which the ramp and end cap 300 is connected. FIG. 6 shows a ramp and chamber end cap system 100 of an embodiment from a bottom perspective view.

[0049] In particular, FIG. 6 shows a ramp and end cap 300 including a flared end cap interior surface 105 and a ramp 107 connected thereto by way of a stub pipe 211. The ramp 107 is configured and arranged to prevent debris and solid contaminants from collecting and becoming lodged at the interior surface 105 of the end cap. Accordingly, debris and solid contaminants are guided up the ramp and through the passageway defined by the stub pipe 211 during maintenance and cleaning. The ramp 107 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5 includes supports or feet 531.

[0050] FIG. 6 shows an interior surface 637 of the chamber 103. The feet 531 of the ramp 107 are configured to extend under the sides of the chamber. Accordingly, the ramp 107 may be configured to lift relative to the ground to an extent limited by the contact between the feet 531 and chamber walls. Additionally, the feet 531 are constructed and arranged to provide support against the ground or surface upon which the ramp and chamber end cap system rests.

[0051] FIG. 7 shows a process of forming a chamber, ramp and end cap system in accordance with an embodiment. In particular, FIG. 7 shows a method 700 including a step S7001 of providing a ramp having a first end and a second end, and a ramp surface configured to incline from the first end to the second end. The ramp surface is formed to enhance flowability of fluid and passage of debris. For example, the ramp may include a curved surface meeting and conforming with a shape of an end of a cylindrical stub pipe connected to a chamber end cap.

[0052] FIG. 7 shows step S7003 of forming feet attached to the ramp. The feet may comprise a same material as the ramp, or a different material, formed to provide a support structure configured to support the ramp in operation. For example, a ramp positioned in a stormwater management system may rest on a ground on which a chamber system is installed. A first, lower end of the inclined ramp may rest on the feet or support structure. In an embodiment, the feet may configured to have a width equal to or larger than a width of a bottom of the chamber. The feet may be configured to be positioned beneath the chamber wall to for additional support. Thus, structural distortion caused by movement of the ramp connected to the chamber system during operation may be minimized.

[0053] Methods including a step S7005 of providing a chamber end cap useful for stormwater management systems. The chamber end cap comprises a stub pipe passing through a central portion of the end cap. Methods include a step S7007 of attaching or fitting the ramp to the chamber end cap. The ramp has a first end, a second end, and a ramp surface inclined from the first end to the second toward the pipe stub when connected thereto.

[0054] The ramp is configured and arranged to prevent debris and solid contaminants from collecting and becoming lodged at the interior surface of the end cap. In an embodiment, the ramp is connected to an interior surface of the end cap. In another embodiment, the ramp is connected to the end cap by way of a third member, for example, attached or fitted to a stub pipe to which the end cap is attached.

[0055] The chamber end cap is configured to attach to the chamber and form a chamber enclosure. In an embodiment, the end cap is welded to the chamber. FIG. 7 shows a step S7009 of attaching the ramp and end cap system to the chamber. The ramp and end cap system are configured to connect to the chamber to form an enclosure containing the ramp. A bottom of the ramp is in facing relation to a ground on which the chamber system is placed. A top surface of the ramp surface is in facing relation to an interior top surface of the chamber. The ramp surface may be curved or otherwise shaped and fitted to the stub pipe to form a smooth, inclined transition from a chamber interior into a stub pipe, the bottom of which is located above a bottom or lower portion of the chamber system.

[0056] Embodiments are shown by way of example, and not by way of limitation in the figures and drawings. While the invention has been described in connection with a number of embodiments and implementations, the invention is not so limited but covers various obvious modifications and equivalent arrangements.