[0001] This invention relates to a fluid storage apparatus, and in particular to a transportable semi-permanent fluid storage apparatus.

Description of the Prior Art

[0002] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that the prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

[0003] It is known to provide semi -permanent, non-permanent, portable or temporary, fluid storage systems, such as temporary dams, to temporarily store water or other fluids, for example for use in industrial processes such as mining or the like. Problems with arrangements such as temporary dams include finding a suitable location for construction, the time and resources required for construction, the difficulty in ensuring effective fluid retention and problems remediating the site after use.

[0004] WO2013/067571 describes an apparatus for storing a fluid, the apparatus including four side walls, each side wall including a side wall frame for supporting a side wall lining member, the side wall frame being movable between a collapsed position for transport and an operative position for supporting side wall lining members, and each corner including a corner frame for supporting a corner lining member, wherein in use, the corner and side walls frames are interconnected so that the lining members cooperate define a fluid-retaining perimeter, thereby allowing the fluid to be retained therein.

[0005] However, such arrangements still require a number of people to enable the storage apparatus to be erected. Summary of the Present Invention

[0006] In one broad form the present invention seeks to provide a fluid storage apparatus including:

a) two opposing first side walls; and,

b) two opposing second side walls interconnecting the first side walls, wherein each second side wall is hingably mounted proximate a respective end of each first side wall and is hinged at an intermediate point to allow the fluid storage apparatus to be moved between a collapsed position in which the second side walls are folded between the first side walls and an operative position in which the second side walls extend between the first side walls so as to define a fluid retaining perimeter.

[0007] Typically each side wall includes:

a) a side wall frame; and,

b) side wall panels coupled to the side wall frame.

[0008] Typically each side wall frame includes a plurality of elongate longitudinal and lateral interconnected frame members.

[0009] Typically each second side wall includes at least two second side wall frames connected via a second hinge and having respective panels coupled thereto.

[0010] Typically the first side walls include a corner sections extending substantially perpendicularly from proximate each end of the first side walls, and wherein the second side walls are hingably mounted to an end of the corner members via respective first hinges.

[0011] Typically apparatus includes a bracing strut extending between each corner section and the respective first side wall and wherein each bracing strut forms part of a respective first hinge.

[0012] Typically equipment is mounted on a rear side of the corner members.

[0013] Typically first side walls include end sections projecting beyond the corner sections.

[0014] Typically the end sections include lifting points for attaching to a lifting device. [0015] Typically each side wall includes a lip extending around at least part of a lower edge of the side wall.

[0016] Typically opposing side walls include lugs that in use are coupled to at least one tensioning member extending between the lugs on opposing side walls.

[0017] Typically the apparatus includes at least one lining member for lining an open cavity defined by the fluid retaining perimeter.

[0018] Typically the lining member includes a port for draining fluid therefrom.

[0019] Typically the lining member is a fabric coupled to a liner bracket extending around an upper edge of the first and second side walls.

[0020] Typically the lining member includes:

a) a first lining member potion coupled to and extending over a part of an inner surface of the side walls; and,

b) a second lining member portion extending over at least part of a ground surface, the first and second lining members being coupled together using an interference coupling.

[0021] Typically the interference coupling is a flanged zipper coupling. [0022] Typically the lining member includes one or more floor panels.

[0023] Typically the liner includes multiple liner layers including:

a) a first geotextile layer provided in contact with the ground;

b) a second geotextile layer overlaying the first geotextile layer; and,

c) a fluid impermeable layer overlaying the second geotextile layer.

[0024] Typically tensioning cables extending between the first or second side walls are positioned between the first and second geotextile layers.

[0025] Typically at least the fluid impermeable layer is attached to upper edges of the first and second side walls in use. [0026] Typically the liner is fixed to one first side wall and retained by one or more storage panels when the apparatus is in a collapsed configuration.

[0027] Typically the liner is sealed around a door opening, allowing a door to open through the liner to allow ingress into the fluid retaining perimeter when the liner is installed.

[0028] Typically the apparatus includes at least one actuator for urging the second side walls between folded and extended positions.

[0029] Typically the at least one actuator includes a linear actuator extending between each first side wall and each second side wall, and wherein in use the linear actuators can be extended or contracted to move the second side walls between the extended or folded positions.

[0030] Typically each actuator includes a hydraulic ram.

[0031] Typically each actuator is coupled to an arm extending outwardly from a second side wall proximate a pivotal mounting.

[0032] Typically the actuator includes driven wheels or tracks coupled to one first side wall for moving the one first side wall relative to the other first side wall.

[0033] Typically the apparatus includes wheels or tracks mounted to one first side wall, wherein the wheels or tracks support the one first side wall allowing the one first side wall to be moved relative to the other first side wall when the fluid storage apparatus is moved between collapsed and operative positions.

[0034] Typically the wheels are coupled to a wheel actuator allowing the wheels or tracks to be moved between an operative position in which the wheels or tracks support the one first side wall and a retracted position.

[0035] Typically the apparatus includes a drive that drives at least one of:

a) actuators;

b) wheels or tracks; and,

c) wheel actuators. [0036] Typically in use, the apparatus is moved between the collapsed and operative positions using an actuator vehicle, the actuator vehicle including:

a) a chassis;

b) a support for engaging the first end wall; and,

c) tracks allowing the vehicle to be moved to thereby move the first wall between the collapsed and operative positions.

[0037] Typically the support includes:

a) an arm pivotally mounted to the chassis, the arm being coupled to lifting points on a first wall of the apparatus in use; and,

b) an actuator for moving the arm from a lowered to a raised position to thereby at least partially elevate the first wall.

[0038] Typically the support includes a platform that supports arms extending from one of the first side walls.

[0039] Typically the platform is coupled to an actuator allowing the platform to be raised or lowered.

[0040] Typically the apparatus includes:

a) three opposing first side walls; and,

b) two pairs of opposing second side walls, each pair interconnecting a pair of first side walls, thereby defining two fluid retaining perimeters with a common central first side wall.

[0041] It will be appreciated that the broad forms of the invention and their respective features can be used in conjunction, interchangeably and/or independently, and reference to separate broad forms is not intended to be limiting.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0042] An example of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: -

[0043] Figure 1 A is a schematic isometric view of an example of a fluid storage apparatus in an operative configuration; [0044] Figure IB is a schematic isometric view of the fluid storage apparatus of Figure 1A in a partially collapsed configuration;

[0045] Figure 1C is a schematic isometric view of the fluid storage apparatus of Figure 1A in a fully collapsed configuration;

[0046] Figure 2A is a schematic isometric view of one of the first walls;

[0047] Figure 2B is a schematic isometric rear view of part of one of the first walls;

[0048] Figure 3 A is a schematic isometric view of one of the second wall portions;

[0049] Figure 3B is a schematic isometric rear view of the second wall portion of Figure 3 A;

[0050] Figure 4A is a schematic plan view of the fluid storage apparatus of Figure 1A in a fully collapsed configuration;

[0051] Figure 4B is a schematic front side view of the fluid storage apparatus of Figure 1A in a fully collapsed configuration;

[0052] Figure 4C is a schematic underside view of the fluid storage apparatus of Figure 1A in a fully collapsed configuration;

[0053] Figure 4D is a schematic right side view of the fluid storage apparatus of Figure 1 A in a fully collapsed configuration;

[0054] Figure 4E is a schematic left side view of the fluid storage apparatus of Figure 1A in a fully collapsed configuration;

[0055] Figure 4F is a schematic plan detail view of the actuator of Figure 4C;

[0056] Figure 5 A is a schematic plan view of the fluid storage apparatus of Figure 1A in the operative configuration;

[0057] Figure 5B is a schematic plan detail view of the actuator of Figure 5 A; and,

[0058] Figure 5C is a schematic left side view of the fluid storage apparatus of Figure 1A in the operative position;

[0059] Figure 6A is a schematic perspective underside view of a further example of a fluid storage apparatus in an operative configuration;

[0060] Figure 6B is a schematic plan view of the fluid storage apparatus of Figure 6A in the operative configuration;

[0061] Figure 6C is a schematic plan view of the fluid storage apparatus of Figure 6A in a partially collapsed configuration;

[0062] Figure 6D is a schematic underside view of the fluid storage apparatus of Figure 6A in a collapsed configuration; [0063] Figure 6E is a schematic plan view of the first side walls of Figure 6A;

[0064] Figure 6F is a schematic plan view of a first example of a door;

[0065] Figure 6G is a schematic front view of the door of Figure 6F;

[0066] Figure 6H is a schematic plan view of a second example of a door;

[0067] Figure 7A is a schematic cross sectional view of an example of a fluid storage apparatus including lining members;

[0068] Figure 7B is a schematic side view of a close-up of the coupling between first and second lining members of Figure 7 A;

[0069] Figure 8A is a schematic side view of an example of an actuator vehicle with an arm in a lowered position;

[0070] Figure 8B is a schematic side view of the actuator vehicle of Figure 8A with an arm in a raised position;

[0071] Figure 8C is a schematic plan view of the actuator vehicle of Figure 8A;

[0072] Figure 8D is a schematic plan view of a second example of an actuator vehicle;

[0073] Figure 8E a schematic side of the actuator vehicle of Figure 8 A;

[0074] Figure 8F is a schematic front view of an example of a side wall being raised by two actuator vehicles;

[0075] Figure 9A is a schematic plan view of a further example of a fluid storage apparatus in a partially opened configuration;

[0076] Figure 9B is a schematic side view of the fluid storage apparatus of Figure 9A in a collapsed configuration with a liner in a storage configuration;

[0077] Figure 9C is a schematic side view of the fluid storage apparatus of Figure 9A in the an operative configuration during deployment of a liner;

[0078] Figure 9D is a schematic side view of the fluid storage apparatus of Figure 9A in the operative configuration with the liner deployed; and,

[0079] Figure 9E is a schematic side view of the fluid storage apparatus of Figure 9A in the operative configuration showing door locations; and,

[0080] Figure 10 is a schematic plan view of a further example of a fluid storage apparatus. Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

[0081] An example of a fluid storage apparatus will now be described with reference to Figures lA to 1C. [0082] In this example, the fluid storage apparatus 100 includes two opposing first side walls 110 and two opposing second side walls 120 interconnecting the first side walls 110. Each second side wall 120 is hingably mounted proximate a respective end of each first side wall 110 and is hinged at an intervening point 121 to allow the fluid storage apparatus to be moved between collapsed and operative positions. In the collapsed position shown in Figure 1C the second side walls 120 are folded between the first side walls 110, whereas in the operative position shown in Figure 1A the second side walls 120 are extended between the first side walls 121 so as to define a fluid retaining perimeter.

[0083] Accordingly, the fluid storage apparatus 100 uses first side walls 110 interconnected by hingably mounted second side walls 120 to allow the apparatus 100 to move between collapsed and operative positions. In the collapsed position the apparatus 100 can be easily transported, whilst once provided in a suitable location, the apparatus 100 can be expanded by unfolding the second side walls 120, to thereby define a perimeter to allow fluid to be stored therein. In this regard, fluid can be stored directly within an open cavity defined by the perimeter, or alternatively a liner could be provided therein to assist with fluid retention.

[0084] In one specific embodiment, dimensions of the fluid storage apparatus 100 are selected so that it is similar in size to a shipping container when in the collapsed configuration, thereby making the apparatus easy to transport using existing infrastructure, such as rail and road vehicles. Furthermore, by appropriate configuration, the fluid storage apparatus 100 can be easily deployed for example using in-built actuators, thereby avoiding the need for operators to manually construct a fluid storage structure onsite.

[0085] Thus, the above arrangement provides a fluid storage apparatus that is easy to transport and erect, and yet can hold significant volumes of fluid. For example, an arrangement dimensioned based on a 40ft shipping container can hold up to 330,000 litres of fluid, or more depending on the configuration. This allows the fluid storage apparatus to be transported on a standard vehicle for use in transporting shipping containers. Furthermore, this can be achieved using a width equivalent to half a shipping container, meaning two sets of apparatus could be provided on a transporting vehicle. It will be appreciated that this can allow a large capacity semi -permanent fluid storage solution to be rapidly provided. [0086] A number of additional features will now be described in further detail.

[0087] In the current example, each side wall 110, 120 includes a side wall frame 111, 121 and side wall panels 112, 122 coupled to the side wall frame 111, 121. Each side wall frame 111, 121 includes a plurality of elongate longitudinal and lateral interconnected frame members. The frame members can be of any suitable form, but in one example are made of a combination of Rectangular Hollow Section (RHS) steel beams, and flat bar steel beams, with the RHS beams being used where additional structural strength is required. In one example, the longitudinal and lateral members are provided in a grid arrangement, however, this is not essential and will depend on the structural requirements and the strength of the beams. Thus, for example, a grid arrangement may not be required with 8mm thick steel. The side wall panels 112, 122 are typically made of plate material, such as steel or the like and may be coupled to the frame using securing bolts, welding, or the like. It will be appreciated however that other suitable constructional configurations could be used for the side walls.

[0088] In more detail, the first side walls 110 include a first side wall frame 11 1 having a first side wall panel 112 mounted thereon. The first side walls 110 also include corner sections 115 extending substantially perpendicularly from proximate each end of the first side walls 110, with the second side walls 120 being hingably mounted to an end of the corner sections 115 via respective first hinges 131. This allows the second side walls 120 to be hingably mounted laterally offset from the first side walls 110, so that when the apparatus is in the collapsed position, the second side walls 120 can be arranged substantially parallel to the first side walls 110, as shown in Figure 1C. The first side walls also include end sections 116 projecting beyond the corner sections 115 to define an extent of the apparatus 100 and to allow equipment to be mounted on a rear side of the corner sections 115, as will be described in more detail below.

[0089] In this example, each second side wall typically includes two second side wall frames 121.1, 121.2 connected via a second hinge 132, each having a respective panel 122.1, 122.2 coupled thereto. However, additional side wall frames and panels can also be provided, so that the second side walls can be formed from multiple hinged leaves so as to provide additional intermediate hinging. [0090] An example of one of the first and second side walls will now be described in more detail with reference to Figures 2A and 2B and 3 A and 3B, respectively.

[0091] In this example, the corner sections 115 also include a corner section frame 215.1 integrally formed with the first side wall frame 111 and one or more corresponding corner section panels 215.2. A bracing strut 215.3 is provided extending between each corner section 115 and the respective first side wall 110, to provide additional structural support to the corner section 115. In the current example, the corner sections 115 on each of the first side walls extend from the side wall by the same distance. However, this is not essential and the corner sections on one of the first side walls may extend different lengths, depending on the preferred configuration.

[0092] The corner section 115 and bracing strut 215.3 also include a number of first hinge lugs 231 spaced along an end of the corner section frame 215.1, which in use are aligned with corresponding lugs 331 provided on a first end of the second wall frames 121.1, 121.2. A hinge pin can then be provided through the first hinge lugs 231, 331 to form the first hinge 131. It will be appreciated however that any suitable type of hinge, such as a butt hinge or external hinge could be used, and the arrangement shown is for the purpose of illustration only. The ends of the corner section panel 215.2 and second wall panel 122 include fingers 222, 322 that interlock when the apparatus is in the operative position, thereby providing a continuous inner surface at the first hinge 131, however, the use of fingers is not essential and any suitable join formation could be used.

[0093] In addition to allowing the second side walls 120 to be offset from the first side walls 110, the corner sections 115 can also allow equipment to be mounted on a rear side thereof. In this example, the equipment can include wheels, stairs and a viewing platform, actuators and a hydraulic pump and associated controls, as will be described in more detail below.

[0094] The first side walls 110 also include end sections 116 extending from each end of the first side wall frame 111. The end sections 116 are typically part of the first side wall frame 111 and define an extent of the first side walls 1 10, so that any equipment mounted on the corner sections 115 is contained within the confines of the apparatus 100, thereby protecting the equipment during transport. The end sections 116 also include lifting points 216, in the form of shipping container corner castings, allowing the fluid retaining apparatus 100 to be lifted by cranes or other lifting devices specifically designed for use with shipping containers. This allows the apparatus 100 to be lifted and transported using readily available infrastructure.

[0095] The second side walls 120 further include second hinge lugs 332 spaced along a second end of each of the second wall frames 121.1, 121.2. A hinge pin can then be provided through the second hinge lugs 332 to form the second hinge 132 joining the second wall frames 121.1, 121.2. Again however, any suitable form of hinge could be used.

[0096] The second side wall frames 121.1, 121.2 also include arms 341 extending outwardly from the first end of the second side wall frames 121.1, 121.2 so that ends of the arms 341 are the offset from the first hinge 131. The arms 341 cooperate with an actuator coupled to mountings 241 on the corner section frame 215.1, to allow the second side walls 120 to be moved, as will be described in more detail below.

[0097] Each side wall 110, 120 can also include a lip 113, 123 extending around at least part of a lower edge of the side wall 110, 120, to form an angled lower edge. Similarly the corners between the first side wall panels 112 and corner section panels 115.2 can also include intermediate panels. The lip and intermediate panels are used to avoid the presence of right angled corners, which can help provide additional structural strength by avoiding the creation of stress points at adjoining edges, as well as avoiding the liner becoming trapped or pinched in acute angled corners, which can in turn lead to puncturing of the liner.

[0098] Tensioning member lugs 114.1, 114.2, 124.1, 124.2 can be provided on upper and lower edges of the first and second side walls 110, 120. The lugs can be coupled to tensioning members 114, 124, such as wires, cables, ropes, chains or the like, which extend between the lugs 114, 124 on opposing side walls 110, 120. This can be used to brace the mid-point of the side walls, which is generally the weakest point, to thereby provide additional structural strength. However, tensing members can also be provided at other locations along the walls and may further be provided at upper and lower edges of the walls.

[0099] In use, the apparatus 100 includes at least one lining member (not shown) for lining an open cavity defined by the side walls 110, 120. The lining member can be of any appropriate form, depending on the preferred example. In one example, the lining member can be formed from or include a fabric, that can be shaped to generally correspond to the shape of the cavity and can including one or more ports for draining fluid therefrom. The lining member could be a single or multi-layered fabric and could include a combination of woven fabrics for strength and/or non-woven fabrics for water impermeable properties. The lining member is coupled to a liner bracket extending around an upper edge of the first and second side walls 110, 120. The bracket could be of any suitable form, but in one example includes bars 117, 127 coupled to the first and second side walls 110, 120, thereby sandwiching the liner between the bars and the side walls.

[0100] A centre of the lining member may also be coupled to either the lugs 114, 124 on the upper edge of the side walls 110 120 and/or the upper one of the tensioning members 114, 124, for example using elasticated chords, or the like. This can assist in lifting the centre of the lining when the apparatus 100 is being moved into the collapsed position, thereby preventing this getting caught under the side walls as the apparatus is collapsed.

[0101] As an alternative to using fabric, the lining member could include one or more floor panels positioned within the cavity and which seal against the lip. For example, a number of 12m x 2m plastic panels, having a thickness in the region of 10mm could be positioned within the cavity to thereby seal the floor and avoid the need for a fabric lining member.

[0102] Further details of the fluid retaining apparatus will now be described with reference to Figures 4A to 4F and 5A to 5C.

[0103] In this example, the apparatus 100 further includes one or more actuators 441 for urging the second side walls 120 between the folded and extended positions, thereby allowing the apparatus 100 to move between the collapsed and operative positions. In the current example, actuators include linear actuators, such as hydraulic rams, positioned at each corner. The actuators 441 extend between each first side wall 110 and each second side wall 120, and in particular are coupled to mountings 241 on the corner section frame 215.1 and the arms 341 provided on the second side walls 120. Whilst a single linear actuator 441 can be provided for each corner, more typically two actuators are provided, with one mounted near an upper edge and another mounted near a lower edge, to thereby provide even force along the length of the first hinges 131.

[0104] The apparatus 100 also includes wheels 442 mounted to one first side wall 110.1, thereby supporting the side wall 110.1, as shown in Figure 5C, and allowing this to be moved relative to the other first side wall 110.2. Whilst wheels are shown in this example, this is not essential, and additionally or alternatively, continuous tracks, such as caterpillar tracks could be used. The use of tracks is particularly beneficial, as these can assist in spreading the load of the apparatus over a larger ground area, reducing the likelihood of the wheels sinking into the ground.

[0105] The above described arrangement allows the fluid storage apparatus to be moved between collapsed and operative positions, solely through movement of the second side walls 120, and in particular through operation of the actuators 441. However, this is not essential, and alternatively, the wheels or tracks could be driven so that operation of the wheels or tracks act as the actuators. In this instance, whilst actuators 441 are not required, one or more actuators may still be provided on each of the side walls to help ensure that the side walls lock into the open position.

[0106] The wheels or tracks 442 are typically mounted to a rear side of the corner section frame 215.1 of the first side wall 110.1, allowing the wheels or tracks to be accommodated within the extent of the end sections 116. The wheels or tracks 442 are also retractable, allowing the first side wall 110.1 to be lowered and raised as required. To achieve this, the wheels or tracks 442 are mounted to the corner section frame 215.1 via a pivotable arm 444 and a wheel or track actuator 443, such as a hydraulic ram or the like, allowing the wheels or tracks to be moved between the operative position shown in Figure 5C and the retracted position shown in Figure 4E.

[0107] Thus, in use, the wheels or tracks 442 can be lowered, to thereby raise the first side wall 110.1 before the actuators are used to pivot the second side walls and hence urge the first side walls together or apart as required.

[0108] The actuators 441 and wheel or track actuators 443 are typically coupled to a drive, such as a hydraulic pump 440, which is also typically mounted on a rear side of one of the corner section frames 215.1, together with associated controls 440.1. The controls can include valve controls, allowing the hydraulic pump to be selectively connected to different actuators, for example allow the actuators 441 to be extended or contracted to move the second side walls 120 between the extended or folded positions and/or to allow the wheels or tracks to be lowered or raised.

[0109] As an alternative to the use of a hydraulic system, an electric control system could be used to thereby avoid the need for onboard hydraulic system. In this instance, electric motors or drives could be used, allowing an all-electric version of the apparatus to be provided. In this case, electric power could be supplied either from onboard batteries, or from a vehicle used to transport the apparatus, for example using batteries or a generator mounted thereon. In this latter scenario, power and controls could be situated on the delivery vehicle and/or a remote handheld control unit, which is then coupled to motors or drives on the apparatus as required. This avoids the need for onboard power and control systems, thereby simplifying the apparatus and reducing the cost.

[0110] The corner sections 115 can also support a viewing platform 451 and associated stairs 452, which can be deployed in use to allow an individual to view the content of the fluid retaining apparatus 100.

[0111] Locking bars 416 can also be provided extending between the end sections 116 to restrict access to the controls 440.1, drive 440 and actuators, for example to prevent these being damaged whilst the apparatus is being transported.

[0112] Accordingly, in use, the fluid retaining apparatus 100 can be transported in the collapsed configuration and delivered to a site on a vehicle, such as a truck or the like. The apparatus can then be lifted into a required position, for example using a crane mounted on the truck.

[0113] Once in position, the locking bars 416 can be removed, and the hydraulic drive 440 controlled to cause the wheels 442 to be lowered so that the first side wall 110.1 is raised. The drive 440 is then used to control the actuators 441 to move the second side walls 120 and expand the apparatus into the operative position as shown in Figure 1A, before the wheels 442 are retracted. As part of this process, the tensioning members 114, 124 and the liner can be installed, or alternatively these can be pre-installed prior to delivery. In either case, once completed, this allows the apparatus to be used to store fluids. Thus, the arrangement can be easily transported and deployed by a single person, whilst still be capable of holding significant volumes of fluid, thereby making the apparatus suitable as a semi -permanent fluid retaining apparatus.

[0114] A further example apparatus will now be described with reference to Figures 6A to 6F. In this example, similar features to those shown with respect to the apparatus 100 are given similar reference numerals, albeit increased by 500.

[0115] Accordingly, in this example, the apparatus 600 includes two opposing first side walls 610 and two opposing second side walls 620 interconnecting the first side walls 610. Each second side wall 620 is mounted via a hinge 631 to a respective end of each first side wall 610 and is hinged at an intervening point 621 to allow the fluid storage apparatus to be moved between collapsed and operative positions. In the collapsed position, shown in Figure 6A, the second side walls 620 are folded between the first side walls 610, whereas in the operative position shown in Figure 6A the second side walls 620 are extended between the first side walls 610 so as to define a fluid retaining perimeter.

[0116] As in the apparatus 100, the first side walls 610 also include corner sections 615 extending substantially perpendicularly from proximate each end of the first side walls 610, with the second side walls 120 being hingably mounted to an end of the corner sections 615 via respective first hinges 631. A bracing strut 615.3 provides additional strength as in the previous example. This allows the second side walls 620 to be hingably mounted laterally offset from the first side walls 610, so that when the apparatus is in the collapsed position, the second side walls 620 can be arranged substantially parallel to the first side walls 610. Additionally, cooperating feet 631 extend inwardly from the first and second side walls 610, 620 so as to engage when the apparatus is in the collapsed configuration, thereby providing support for the second side walls, thereby preventing stressing of the hinge 631, for example during lifting of the apparatus.

[0117] In this example, the apparatus 600 does not have in-built actuators, and hence does not require the end sections 116 projecting beyond the corner sections 615. This in turn allows the first side walls 610 to have a greater length, thereby increasing the capacity of the fluid reservoir, for example from 330,000 litres to 365,000 litres, whilst maintaining a given footprint in the collapsed configuration.

[0118] In this example, the apparatus 600 includes a door 650 mounted in one of the first side walls 610 to provide access to the inside of the fluid retaining perimeter once in the operative position. This avoids the need for individuals to climb over the side walls 610, 620, to access the open cavity, which can be useful when installing lining members, as will be described in more detail below.

[0119] A first example door is shown in Figures 6F and 6G. In this example, the door includes a door panel 651, which is generally larger than a door aperture to thereby abut against an inner side of the first side wall 610 when in the closed position. The panel includes a seal extending around a perimeter of the panel, to thereby sealingly engage the first side wall 610, around the door opening.

[0120] The door is coupled to the side wall 610 using floating hinges 653, allowing the door to open as shown in Figure 6F. However, this is not essential, and in the second example of Figure 6H, the floating hinges are replaced by a hinge 656 extending along the edge of the door panel.

[0121] The door also includes a locking bolt 654 and actuator wheel 655 rotationally mounted to the door, allowing the locking bolt 654 to engage corresponding bolt holes (not shown) in the first side wall, thereby allowing the door to be locked in a closed position.

[0122] In use, one or more lining members are provided within the apparatus 600 to effectively seal the internal perimeter defined by the first and second side walls 610, 620. An example arrangement will now be described with reference to Figures 7 A and 7B.

[0123] In this example, the lining includes a first lining member potion 661 coupled to and extending over a part of an inner surface of the side walls 610, 620. More typically the first lining member potion 661 extends over a top of the side walls and is held in place by retaining bars or brackets 663. A second lining member portion 662 is provided extending over at least part of a ground surface, the first and second lining members being coupled together using an interference coupling 664, such as a flanged zipper coupling having toothed flanges 664.1 that interlock to sealingly couple the lining members together. An example of such an arrangement is the ITW MaxiGrip barrier closure system.

[0124] To provide further protection, rubber mats 665 can be installed on the ground surface, between the ground surface and the second lining member portion 662, thereby protecting the second lining member portion 662, for example from rocks, stones, rough surface or the like. In this example, the first and second lining member potions 661, 662 provide a fluid impermeable layer, whilst the rubber mats provide a fluid permeable layer that protects the impermeable layers from damage.

[0125] In one example, the above arrangement allows the first and second lining member portions 661, 662 to be decoupled to aid installation. For example, the apparatus can be transported with the first lining member potion 661 in situ. Once delivered and erected, an installer can then access the internal cavity via the door 650, and install first the mats 665 and then the second lining member portion 662. Once the apparatus has been used, a reverse process can be used to remove the second lining member potion 661 and mats 665, before the apparatus is returned to the collapsed configuration.

[0126] In the example shown, the coupling 664 is provided part way up the side walls 610, 620. This ensures the coupling is above ground level and that the first lining member potion 661 does not impinge on the ground whilst the apparatus is moved between operative and collapsed positions. Additionally, once water is added to the reservoir, the water will urge the coupling against the side wall, thereby applying pressure to the coupling and urging the first and second first lining member potions 661, 662 together, which in turn strengthens the coupling to ensure there is no leakage.

[0127] In the above example, the apparatus 600 excludes actuators, with a separate actuator vehicle being used to move the apparatus between operative and collapsed configurations. An example of this will now be described with reference to Figures 8A to 8C.

[0128] In this example, the actuator vehicle 800 includes a chassis 801, typically housing a motor, drive train and control systems, or the like. An arm 805 is pivotally mounted to the chassis, for example via a mounting 806, the arm being coupled to lifting points 616 on a first wall 610 of the apparatus 600 in use, for example using mounting bolts 808, or the like. An actuator 807, such as a hydraulic ram, is provided for moving the arm from a lowered position shown in Figure 8A to a raised position shown in Figure 8B, to thereby at least partially elevate the first wall 610. The vehicle further includes track assemblies including tracks 804, mounted to sprocket wheels 802, which are mounted to driven axles 803, allowing the tracks to be driven, to thereby move the vehicle and hence the first wall 610 between the collapsed and operative positions.

[0129] Accordingly, it will be appreciated that this arrangement allows the actuation system to be provided separately to the apparatus 600. This in turn allows the vehicle to be reused on multiple sets of apparatus 600, thereby reducing the overall cost of the apparatus, and ensuring the apparatus does not include expensive equipment that could be damaged whilst left exposed to the environment.

[0130] An alternative example of an actuator vehicle is shown in Figures 8D to 8F.

[0131] In this example, the actuator vehicle 810 again includes a chassis 811, typically housing a motor, drive train and control systems, or the like. The vehicle further includes track assemblies including tracks 814, mounted to sprocket wheels 812, which are mounted to driven axles 813, allowing the tracks to be driven.

[0132] In this example, and in contrast to the example of Figures 8A to 8C, the apparatus includes platform 815 is provided, which is mounted on an actuator 817, such as a hydraulic ram, allowing this to be raised or lowered. An arm 818 is provided which extends from an end of the side wall 610, allowing this to be supported by the platform 815, so that the arm and hence the wall 610 can be lowered and raised. In particular, a respective vehicle 810 is typically provided on either end of the side wall 610, allowing this to be raised, moved and lowered into a new position, as required in order to deploy or store the fluid storage apparatus.

[0133] As a further alternative arrangement, the platform 815 could be a static platform, with the arms 818 being configured to move between lowered and raised positions, for example using a suitable hydraulic actuation system mounted on the fluid storage apparatus, thereby allowing the wall to be raised and lowered, respectively. [0134] Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the actuation vehicle can include a supported formed either from an actuated arm pivotally mounted to the chassis, or a support platform that can support an arm extending from one of the first side walls.

[0135] A further example apparatus will now be described with reference to Figures 9A to 9E. In this example, similar features to those shown with respect to the apparatus 600 are given similar reference numerals, albeit increased by 300.

[0136] Accordingly, in this example, the apparatus 900 includes two opposing first side walls 910.1, 910.2 and two opposing second side walls 920 interconnecting the first side walls 910.1, 910.2. For the purpose of illustration, it is assumed that the first side walls include a static first side wall 910.1 and movable first side wall 910.2, which is moved during deployment, as will be described in more detail below.

[0137] Each second side wall 920 is mounted via a hinge 931 to a respective end of each first side wall 910 and is hinged at an intervening point 921 to allow the fluid storage apparatus to be moved between collapsed and operative positions. In the collapsed position, the second side walls 920 are folded between the first side walls 910, whereas in the operative position the second side walls 920 are extended between the first side walls 910.1, 910.2 so as to define a fluid retaining perimeter.

[0138] As in the apparatus 100, the first side walls 910 also include corner sections 915 extending substantially perpendicularly from proximate each end of the first side walls 910, with the second side walls 920 being hingably mounted to an end of the corner sections 915 via respective first hinges 931. A bracing strut 915.3 provides additional strength as in the previous example. However, in this example, a box corner 915.32 is provided extending from the movable first side wall 910.2 to the corner sections 915, and with the bracing strut 915.3 being coupled thereto instead of to the corner sections 915. The corner section can be used to accommodate equipment, or the like.

[0139] In one example, the box corner 915.32 incorporates hydraulics, which can be used to rias the movable first side wall 910.2. In this regard, the hydraulics can be used to raise or lower arms 818 extending outwardly from the movable first side wall 910.2, allowing the movable first side wall 910.2 to be raised or lowered on a support of an actuator vehicle. [0140] Additionally and/or alternatively, the box corner 915.32 could be used to accommodate a movable support, such as wheels, rollers or tracks, which can be used to allow or assist with moving the movable first side wall 910.2. For example, this could be used to allow the movable first side wall 910.2 to be raised onto supporting wheels or tracks, and then moved either by powering the wheels or tracks, or using a separate actuator vehicle as previously described. In other words these could be used instead of or in addition to a separate actuating vehicle.

[0141] In this example, the liner 941 is permanently attached to the static first side wall 910.1, typically extending over the top or and being attached to an outer side of the first side wall 910.1. The liner 941 is retained by one or more storage panels 940 when the apparatus is in a collapsed configuration. In this regard, the storage panels can be hingably mounted to a lower edge of the static first side wall 910.1, allowing these to be raised and lowered as required.

[0142] Accordingly, during transport and deployment of the side walls 920, the liner 941 can be folded up and urged against the first side wall 910.1, so it can be retained between static first side wall 910.1 and the retracted second side walls, as shown in Figure 9B. The panels are typically held in position by supporting cables 942, which can be controllably released, allowing the panels to be lowered, as shown by the arrow 943, until they rest on the ground. Following this, the liner can be unrolled and attached to the second and movable first side walls 920, 910.2, as shown in Figure 9D. It will be appreciated that following use, a similar procedure can be used to store the liner, including detaching the liner from the movable and second side walls 910.2, 920, rolling the liner up on top of the storage panels 940, and then raising the storage panels to the storage position. This provides an easy mechanism to allow the liner 941 to be stored and deployed.

[0143] To provide access to the fluid retaining perimeter inside of the side walls during this process, two doors are typically provided as shown at 951 and 952. The door 951 is provided in the static first side wall 910.1, with the liner being sealed around an edge of the doorway, so that access is possible when the liner is deployed. To ensure successful sealing once closed, the door typically seals against an the side wall in a manner similar to that described previously, and can be bolted closed to ensure adequate sealing, particularly as the tank is filled.

[0144] In contrast the second door 952, can be provided in the movable first side wall 910.2, or the second side walls 920, providing access to the interior before the liner is deployed. In this case, the liner extends over the doorway, once the door is closed in use. Accordingly, access can be via the second door before deployment of the liner 941, and via the first door once the liner 941 is deployed.

[0145] Whilst the liner could include a single layer of material, more typically the liner includes multiple liner layers including a first geotextile layer provided in contact with the ground, a second geotextile layer overlaying the first geotextile layer and a fluid impermeable layer overlaying the second geotextile layer.

[0146] In one example, tensioning cables extending between lower edges of the first or second side walls 910, 920 can be positioned between the first and second geotextile layers, thereby protecting the fluid impermeable layer from direct contact with the cables, whilst the cables are resting on the first geotextile layer. In this case, during deployment, the movable first side wall is typically moved so as to extend the second side walls. The first geotextile layer is laid on the ground, before tensioning cables are fitted extending between opposing side walls 910, 920, to thereby prevent outward movement of the walls once the tank is filled. Once the tensioning cables are installed, the second geotextile layer is overlaid on the first geotextile layer and cables. Finally, the fluid impermeable layer is laid out, and attached to the upper edges of the movable first side wall 910.2 and the second side walls 920.

[0147] In the above described example, the apparatus includes two first and second side walls, to provide a generally rectangular configuration. However, as an alternative, three spaced apart first side walls could be provided, with these being interconnected by two pairs of second side walls, thereby defining a back-to-back fluid retaining perimeters with a common central first side wall and two outer first side walls. An example of this is shown in Figure 10.

[0148] In particular, in this example, the apparatus includes a central static first side wall 1010.1, and two movable outer first side walls 1010.2, 1001.3, which are connected to the central static first side wall 1010.1 via respective pairs of hinged second side walls, 1020.2, 1020.3. In this instance, the common central wall would typically remain stationary, with the outer first side walls being moved away from the central first side wall during deployment. The central static side wall could be a complete wall as previously described, so as to define two separate fluid retaining volumes. Alternatively the static first side wall could be formed from an open frame, allowing a single liner to be provided so as to define a single larger fluid retaining volume.

[0149] It will be further appreciated that a number of different concepts have been described with respect to different examples, and that these could be used interchangeably. For example the tensioning members described with respect to the apparatus 100 could be used in the apparatus 600, whilst the actuator vehicle 800 could be used with the apparatus 100. Accordingly, reference to different concepts in distinct examples is not intended to be limiting.

[0150] In the above described example, the apparatus is used to provide a fluid retaining perimeter, which could be used for a wide variety of purposes. For example, this could be used to temporarily store wastewater prior to processing or the like.

[0151] Throughout this specification and claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[0152] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous variations and modifications will become apparent. All such variations and modifications which become apparent to persons skilled in the art, should be considered to fall within the spirit and scope that the invention broadly appearing before described.