Liquid Tank Apparatus

Field of Invention

The present invention relates to liquid tanks, and relates particularly but not exclusively to tanks used to store water.

Background of the Invention

In some environments, liquid tanks need to be installed. For example, water tanks often need to be installed in gardens.

A known approach has been to provide large cylindrical water tanks, however, such tanks have disadvantages: they are slow and expensive to manufacture, and relatively large in size which creates difficulty during transport and installation on site. Furthermore, such large cylindrical tanks are fixed in size. Hence, if the manufacturer wishes to offer a range of sizes, it is necessary to produce a range of differently-sized tanks, which adds to the cost of inventory in holding such a large range of tanks.

In some instances, such cylindrical tanks are so large that they require a crane to lift the tank into its installation location. Another problem is that, the environments, in which the tanks are used, present a range and wide variety of locations. For instance, in some small household backyards, the only available space for a water tank may be a cramped space around a corner of a house. In this specification, discussion of prior art, either singly or in combination, is not to be taken as an admission of common general knowledge of the skilled addressee. An object of the present invention is to overcome or at least ameliorate one or more of the problems in the prior art, or to provide an improved and/or cheaper alternative.

Summary of Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a reservoir- tank apparatus adapted to hold liquid, comprising: a plurality of reservoir-components each capable of holding an amount of liquid and each provided with component-connection-means adapted to enable the reservoir- components to interconnect one to at least another; and flow-aperture-means which allows liquid to flow therethrough between adjacent reservoir-components when the reservoir-components are so connected using the component-connection-means; wherein the reservoir-components are adapted to combine, in use, to form a reservoir-tank capable of holding a body of liquid made up of the combination of the amounts of liquid in each of the interconnected reservoir-components.

Preferably, the component-connection-means includes alignment-means that, in use, enables each of the reservoir-component to interconnect with one or more adjacent reservoir-components in a predetermined alignment that is either linear, orthogonal or some other predetermined, non-random arrangement.

Preferably, the alignment-means enables each of the reservoir-component to interconnect with one or more adjacent reservoir-components from a selection of a range of predetermined alignments which include two or more of linear, perpendicular, orthogonal or other predetermined, non-random arrangements.

Preferably, the alignment-means is adapted to enable each of the reservoir- components to engage with at least another of the reservoir-components such that a reference axis of one reservoir-component is either parallel or perpendicular to the same reference axis of the other reservoir-components to which it is engaged.

The alignment-means may comprise: one or more male-projection-means adapted, in use; to enter into corresponding female-reception-means on an adjacent one of the reservoir-components when the adjoining reservoir-components are in said predetermined alignment; and/or one or more of such female-reception-means adapted, in use, to receive

therein the corresponding male-projection-means on an adjacent one of the reservoir- components.

The male-projection-means may comprise convex mounds, and the complementary female-reception-means comprise concave depressions that are adapted to receive therein the convex mounds. The male-proj ection-means may be arranged in one or more rows.

The alignment-means may be adapted, in use, to prevent rotational motion with respect to each other of complementary surfaces of adjacent reservoir-components that touch each other.

The alignment-means may include complementary corrugated surface configurations located on surfaces of the reservoir-components that, in use, are arranged so as to act as lateral side surfaces thereof.

The alignment-means may be adapted, in use, prevent lateral movement of the connected reservoir-components with respect to one another.

Each of the reservoir-components may be adapted, in use, to be stackable generally one on top of at least part or the whole of another of the reservoir-components, and wherein at least part of the alignment-means is located on surfaces of each of the reservoir components that, in use when stacked on top of another, are arranged so as to act as upper and lower surfaces thereof.

The alignment-means may include a linear locking device that, in use, is able to pass through the flow-aperture-means along the linear path to provide structural rigidity to the reservoir-components that are interconnected on top of each other.

Each of the reservoir-components may be adapted, in use, to be attachable generally one on top of at least part or the whole of another of the reservoir-components.

The flow-aperture-means of each of the reservoir-components may be located therein such that, when the reservoir components, in use, are stacked on top of another, the flow-aperture-means are arranged in alignment along a linear path.

Each of the reservoir-components may be adapted, in use, to be attachable generally side by side with at least part or the whole of another of the reservoir- components.

The component-connection-means may enable each of the reservoir-components to connect to two, or three, or more adjacent reservoir-components.

Each of the reservoir-components may be adapted to be attachable and/or stackable to one or more adjacent reservoir-components such that surfaces of adjoining reservoir-components interface with each other without any gap or substantial gap therebetween to the extent that the reservoir-tank that is created by the interconnection of the reservoir-components is an integral unit.

Each of the reservoir-components may have one or more generally planar surfaces such that, when interconnected with other of the reservoir-components, the reservoir-tank that is created by said interconnection is able to have one or more planar surfaces that are formed from a combination of the individual planar surfaces of several of the interconnected reservoir-components.

Some or all of the component-connection-means may include said flow-aperture- means.

The flow-aperture-means may include one or more apertures through which liquid can flow.

Some or all of the reservoir-components may be of identical shape such that the reservoir-tank apparatus is modular in nature so that, in use, the reservoir-tank includes a plurality of interconnected, identical reservoir-components to effectively form a single reservoir-tank. The identical shape may be rectangular prism in shape, or the identical shape may be triangular prism in shape.

The component-connection-means may enable the reservoir-components to be positioned relative to one another similar to the manner in which rectangular house-bricks are positioned relative to one another. One or more surfaces of the reservoir-components may be provided with panel- strengthening-means. In each reservoir component, the panel-strengthening-means may include a connector that connects one panel to an opposing panel in order to resist any tendency for the panels to move away from each other when the reservoir component is filled with liquid.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of providing a reservoir-tank comprising the steps of: interconnecting a plurality of reservoir-components, each capable of holding an amount of liquid, and each having component-connection-means that are used to interconnect the reservoir-components to one another to form a reservoir-tank capable of holding a holding a body of liquid made up of the combination of the amounts of liquid in each of the interconnected reservoir-components; and connecting flow-aperture-means on each reservoir-components to the flow- aperture-means on adjacent reservoir-components to enable liquid to flow therethrough between adjacent reservoir-components.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a reservoir- component comprising: component-connection-means adapted to enable the reservoir-component to interconnect one to at least another identical reservoir-component; and flow-aperture-means which allows liquid to flow therethrough; wherein the reservoir-component is adapted to combine, in use, to form a reservoir-tank apparatus capable of holding a body of liquid made up of the combination of the amounts of liquid in each of the interconnected reservoir-components, wherein liquid flows through the flow-aperture-means of adjacent reservoir- components when the reservoir-components are so connected using the component- connection-means, and wherein the component-connection-means includes alignment-means that, in use, enables each of the reservoir-component to interconnect with one or more adjacent reservoir-components in a predetermined alignment that is either linear, orthogonal or some other predetermined, non-random arrangement.

Drawings

In order that the present invention might be more fully understood, embodiments of the invention will be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure IA shows a first embodiment of a reservoir-tank apparatus constructed by an interconnection of a plurality of reservoir components in an upright column;

Figure IB shows a second embodiment of a reservoir-tank apparatus constructed by an interconnection of a plurality of reservoir components in an L-shape;

Figure 1C shows a third embodiment of a reservoir-tank apparatus constructed by an interconnection of a plurality of reservoir components;

Figure ID shows a fourth embodiment of a reservoir-tank apparatus constructed by an interconnection of a three reservoir components in an L-shape;

Figure 2 is a cross-sectional, side view of two reservoir parts, with the upper reservoir part shown in the process of being lowered onto the upper surface of another identical reservoir part (the arrow indicates the direction of movement);

Figure 3 shows a cut-away, perspective view, with a portion of one reservoir part being show in cut-away cross-sectional view, to illustrate how the lower surface of one reservoir part engages with the upper surface of an identical reservoir part;

Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the undersurface or lower surface of a reservoir part used in Figures IA to ID. (In Figure 4, the reservoir part 200A is shown flipped over or reversed, in comparison to the view of the same item in Figures IA to ID);

Figure 5 A shows a cross-sectional, perspective view of two reservoir parts stacked one on top of another, indicating that the flow channels are in linear alignment along a common linear path;

Figure 5B illustrates a locking rod that is used to pass through the linear path in Figure 5A of a series of flow channels that are aligned along a linear path; and

Figures 6A to 6H show a series of drawings of a further embodiment in which some of the planar surfaces of the individual parts are provided with strengthening indentations, with Figures 6F and 6H showing partial sectional views.

In the drawings, some reference numerals will have suffixes that are intended to indicate a specific item. For example, the numeral 200 refers generally to reservoir parts, whereas 200A refers to a particular reservoir part in Figure IA. Hence, for example, the numerals 200 and 200A are used, in various contexts, depending on whether the reference is to the parts in general, or to a specific example of such a part in a drawing. In the embodiments, like components are labeled with like reference numerals merely for the sake of ease of understanding the different embodiments and modifications.

Description of Embodiments

Referring to the appended drawings, Figures IA, IB, 1C and ID each illustrate an embodiment of a reservoir-tank apparatus, each in the form of a liquid tank 10OA, 10OB, lOOC, 10OD.

In Figure IA, the liquid tank IOOA is adapted to hold liquid. The liquid tank IOOA is made up of a plurality of reservoir-components in the form of reservoir parts 200A, 200B, 200C, 200D, 200E, 200F, 200G and 200H.

Each of the reservoir parts 200A-H is capable of holding an amount of liquid. Therefore, in order to create a larger liquid tank IOOA, each of the reservoir parts 200 A-H is interconnected together in such a manner to form an interconnected hollow network that is the sum total of the capacities of each of the individual reservoir parts 200A-H.

In use, the reservoir parts 200A-H are designed to combine to form an interconnected, multi-component, hollow network that together form the overall liquid tank IOOA. The liquid tank IOOA can hold a body of liquid that is made up of the combination of the amounts of liquid in each of the reservoir parts 200 A-H. Liquid is able to flow between the interconnected reservoir parts, such that the overall liquid tank IOOA is effectively a single reservoir that is made up of a plurality of interconnected reservoir parts 200A-H.

In the embodiments in Figures IA-D, the reservoir parts 200 are attachable and/or stackable to one or more adjacent parts 200 such that adjacent surfaces interface with each other without any gap or substantial gap in between. Hence, in the embodiments, for

example in Figures IA and IB, the resulting liquid tank 100 has the appearance of an integral unit.

Stacking Feature

In the examples in Figures IA to ID ₅ the embodiments of the liquid tanks are provided with layers of interconnected reservoir parts 200. The embodiment in Figure IA has four layers. The embodiment in Figure IB has four layers too. The embodiment in Figure 1C has three layers. The embodiment in Figure ID has two layers.

Thus, the user can construct the liquid tank to have as many layers as are required. This enables very tall liquid tanks to be constructed. In such instances, some form of external bracing may be required.

To achieve embodiments that have a layer structure, each of the reservoir parts 200 is adapted, in use, to be stackable generally one on top of at least part, or on top of the whole of another of the reservoir parts. For example, Figure 2 shows one reservoir part 200A being stacked on top of the whole of another reservoir part 200B.

The other examples in Figures IA-D show one reservoir part 200A stacked on top of merely a part of another reservoir part 200B. In those examples. The reservoir parts 200 are attachable generally one on top of at least part or the whole of another of the reservoir parts 200.

Variety of Arrangements

An advantage of a liquid tank 10OA, 10OB, lOOC, which is made up of interconnected reservoir parts 200, is that the user can have freedom to arrange the reservoir parts 200 in a wide variety of arrangements, to create liquid tanks 100 that vary in size, shape, configuration and liquid capacity.

In addition to the example in Figure IA, two other embodiments are shown in Figures IB and 1C, which show how the same reservoir parts 200A-F (from part of the earlier example) can be re-arranged and included in other exemplary embodiments.

The first embodiment in Figure IA shows a liquid tank IOOA made up of the reservoir parts that are arranged in the shape of a single column.

The second embodiment in Figure IB shows a liquid tank IOOB made up of the reservoir parts that are arranged in an L-shape. An advantage of an L-shaped tank is that it can be positioned at a corner location, with parts of the tank on either side of the corner. For example, the only available space for a water tank may be a cramped space around a corner of a house. Hence, the ability to create an L-shaped tank will enable an embodiment of a water tank to be constructed around both sides of the corner of the house. In contrast, a water tank of fixed dimensions, or even those embodiments that can only be connected side by side, but in only one dimension, would not be able to achieve a water tank that fits around both sides of a corner of a building.

The third embodiment in Figure 1C shows a liquid tank IOOC made up of the reservoir parts that are arranged in a panel-like arrangement.

The fourth embodiment in Figure ID shows a reservoir-tank apparatus constructed by an interconnection of a three reservoir components in an L-shape. In the embodiments, the reservoir parts 200 are rectangular prisms, and are box- like in shape, however, in other embodiments, such parts 200 can be shaped as triangular prisms, or other suitable shape.

In the embodiments of Figures IA-D, the reservoir components have one or more generally planar surfaces, namely the generally flat surfaces of the rectangular prism shape. Hence, when interconnected, the resulting liquid tank 100 has one or more planar surfaces that are formed from a combination of the individual planar surfaces of the individual parts 200. Hence, it could be said that the liquid tank IOOA in Figure IA has generally four upright, planar side walls. Similarly, the tank IOOB in Figure IB could be~ said to have six upright, generally planar side wall surfaces. (The term "generally planar" covers those planar surfaces that have slight surface corrugations).

Connection

In order to allow interconnectivity of the reservoir parts 200A-H, each of the parts 200A-H is provided with component-connection-means that is adapted to enable each of the reservoir parts 200A-H to interconnect one to at least another. Potentially, the user can make use of as many, or as few reservoir parts as needed to provide the amount of liquid storage capacity required by the user.

The concept of connection of the reservoir parts may, or may not, include the notion of locking the components together. Some embodiments may include means for locking the reservoir parts 200 together. In other variations, the reservoir parts can be held or bound together by an external means, such as an external strap.

In rudimentary embodiments of the invention (not illustrated), the component- connection-means can be in the form of nuts and bolts that connect the reservoir parts together, or some mechanical fastener that interconnects the parts 200 together.

Connection & Alignment

In the embodiment, the role of the component-connection-means, for connecting the reservoir parts, includes the role of connecting the parts 200 in appropriate alignment with the other parts 200. To achieve this, the component-connection-means includes alignment-means which ensures that, in use, each of the reservoir parts 200A-H can interconnect with one or more adjacent reservoir parts 200, in a predetermined alignment.

This predetermined alignment may be either linear, orthogonal or some other predetermined, non-random arrangement.

In embodiments of the invention, the alignment means can include a range of features that contribute to the overall ability of the reservoir parts to be connected in appropriate alignment that is selected by the user. Below are various examples of alignment-means that are useable with embodiments of the invention.

Figure 2 shows two interconnected reservoir parts 200A, 200B, one positioned above the other during the process of assembly, with the aim that the lower surface 210L

of the first component 200A will engage the upper surface 210L of the second component 200B.

For this interconnection, in order to achieve the desired alignment with precision, at least part of the alignment-means, in the embodiment, is located on surfaces of each of the reservoir parts 200 that, in use when stacked on top of another, are arranged so as to act as upper 21 OU and lower 21 OL surfaces thereof.

The alignment-means on each reservoir part 200A, 200B, in the exemplary embodiment, is in a form that includes one or more male-projection-means in the form of male-projections 220M. In Figure 2, the reservoir parts 200A, 200B are each provided with two male-projections 220M, however, in other variations, there many be just one such male-projection, or even three or more such male-projection on each reservoir part.

In Figures 1 A-ID, the male-projections 220M are arranged in a single row on the upper surface 210U of each reservoir part 200, however, iri other variations, each reservoir part can be provided with one such projection, or even three or more such projections. Also, in other modifications, each reservoir part 200 may be provided with two or more rows of projections.

The alignment-means on each reservoir part 200A, 200B, in the embodiment, is in a form that also includes one or more female-reception-means in the form of female- depressions 220F. In Figure 2, the reservoir parts 200A, 200B are each provided with two female-depressions 220F, however, in other variations, there many be just one such female-depression, or even three or more such female-depressions 220F on each reservoir part.

In Figures 1 A-ID, the female-depressions 220F are arranged in a row on the lower surface 21 OL of each reservoir part 200, however, in other variations, each reservoir part can be provided with one such depression, or even three or more such depressions. Also, in other modifications, each reservoir part 200 may be provided with two or more rows of depressions 220F.

In use, when the lower surface 210L of one reservoir part 200A is brought into contact with the upper surface 210U of another reservoir part 200B, the male projections 220M of one reservoir part 200A enters and engages with the corresponding female-

depressions 220F on the adjacent reservoir part 200B, or, in other words, the female- depressions 220F receives therein the male projections 220M.

When the reservoir parts 200 are interconnected using the male projections 220M and the corresponding female-depressions 220F, the resulting structure, unfilled with liquid, may have a degree of play or looseness. However, as the tank 100 is filled with liquid, the added weight of the liquid adds a larger degree of stability and coherence to the entire water tank 100. In use, when the tank is filled, the overall integral unit of the tank has a good degree of stability.

Flow Apertures

In order to enable the liquid to flow between the individual reservoir parts 200A- H, each reservoir part is provided with flow-aperture-means through which liquid can flow back and forth between adjacent reservoir parts. The flow-aperture-means perform this role when the reservoir parts are connected using the component-connection-means. In the embodiments, some or all of the component-connection-means includes the flow-aperture-means. For example, the male-projections 220M — which perform the function of interconnecting the reservoir parts — also includes flow-aperture-means in the form of one or more apertures 214 through which the liquid can flow. For example, in Figure ID and Figure 2, each male-projections 220M has a flow-aperture-means in the form of an axial flow channel 214 that passes through the central, longitudinal axis of the male-projection 220M. Thus, when the various reservoir parts 200 are interconnected using the male-projections 220M, liquid is able to flow between the interconnected parts 200 through these flow channels 214.

The cross-sectional view in Figure 3 shows how the flow channel 214, that is in the male-projection 220M, is able to function as a flow channel for liquid to flow between the lower reservoir part 200B and the upper reservoir part 200A.

Filling Procedure

The liquid tanks 100, in use, are filled with liquid, with the liquid entering the tank either through one of the uppermost flow channels 214. Alternatively, other variations can provide a dedicated inlet mechanism. In Figure IA, liquid can enter through the flow channel 214. Initially, the liquid eventually finds its way to the lowermost reservoir parts 200G, 200H. As these lowermost parts fill with liquid, the liquid level rises, and subsequently flows into the reservoir parts 200E, 200F on the next-highest layer, and so forth until the entire liquid tank IOOA is filled with liquid. This means that the liquid, inside the tank 100, may effectively become a single body of liquid. Hence, the interconnected reservoir parts may be regarded as a single liquid tank that is constructed from a plurality of reservoir parts.

Alignment of Flow Apertures

Figures 2 and 5A show that, in the embodiments, the flow channels 214 in each reservoir part 200 are located such that, when the reservoir parts are stacked on top of one another, the flow channels 214 are arranged in alignment along a linear path (indicated by ^• dotted line C-C).

In the embodiments, this linear alignment of the flow channels can be used to advantage as part of the alignment-means of the liquid tank. Here, the alignment-means includes a linear locking device in the form of a locking rod 260 shown in Figure 5B. In Figure 5 A, the locking rod 260 passes through a series of the flow channels 214 along the linear path to provide structural rigidity to the reservoir parts 200 that are interconnected on top of each other. In Figure 5B, the locking rod, at its leading point 261 which is inserted first into the apertures, is provided with a bifurcated, expandable arrow-shaped head 261. As the head 261 passes through the channel 214, the two arms of the bifurcated head are compressed together to allow it to fit through the narrow opening of the channel 214, which then expand after the head 261 enters the internal chamber of the reservoir part 200. A purpose of the expandable bifurcated head 261 is to hinder removal of the rod.

Hence, use of such a rod 260 with a bifurcated tip would be in circumstances where the user has no future intention of disassembling the liquid tank 100.

Alternatively, if future disassembly is conceivable, the user can use a similar rod that does not have a bifurcated tip.

In the embodiment, the opening of the channel 214 is circular, whereas the cross- section of the rod 260 is non-circular. Hence, the rod does not totally block the opening of the channel, thus allowing liquid to flow through the channel, even when the rod is positioned in the channel opening.

Embodiments Having Identical Reservoir Parts

In the embodiments of Figures iA to ID, all the reservoir parts 200A-H are identical with each other.

In the embodiments, some or all of the reservoir parts 200 may be of identical shape such that the reservoir-tank apparatus is modular in nature. A user can therefore purchase a plurality of identical reservoir parts 200 which can be constructed into a liquid tank 100 of a wide variety of shapes and configurations.

Preferably, the reservoir parts can be detachable from each other, which means that the user can construct, and re-construct the parts, so as to change the shape of the overall liquid tank 100. The modular nature of water tanks, that are created according to embodiments of the invention, have the benefit of being able to be created in a range of shapes and sizes. .

For example, the examples in Figures IA-D show linear tanks, column tanks, and L- shaped tanks. Other possibilities include Z-shaped or C-shaped tanks. The wide range of possibilities is a result of the modular nature of the tanks. Figure 3 shows a step-shaped tank that can be positioned on a step-shaped surface.

Embodiments Having Non-Identical Reservoir Parts

Other embodiments may include non-identical reservoir parts.

For example, in Figure IA relative to Figure 2, all the reservoir parts have male- projections 220M on their upper surfaces 210U, and all the parts 200 have female- depressions 220F on their lower surfaces 210L.

Therefore, in other modifications, the particular reservoir part 200 may only have either such alignment means on their upper surfaces 210U, or only on their lower surfaces 210L. Such modified parts 200 can be used for the upper layer of reservoir parts. For example, referring to Figure IA, a possible modification could be that, rather than using the identical parts 200A, 200B in the uppermost layer of reservoir parts, these could be replaced with reservoir parts where the upper male-projections 220M would be omitted, in order to achieve a smooth upper surface 210U without any projections, merely for the sake of a more pleasing appearance.

In other words, the user can create the liquid tank 100 using a large number of identical reservoir parts 200A-H for the intermediate layers of the tank, except for the uppermost layer, and possibly the lowermost layer, where the user can rely on a modified reservoir part that presents a smoother outer surface. hi summary, the illustrated embodiments have male-projections 220M and female-depressions 220F, while other variations have either male-projections 220M or female-depressions 220F, i.e. "and/or". hi Figure 2, preferably, the male-projection-means comprise convex mounds 21 IM, and the complementary female-reception-means comprise concave dimples 21 IF(A) that receive therein the convex mounds.

In the embodiments, the mounds are rounded, however, in other embodiments these can be shaped differently, such as cylindrical or square, or any shape that can be used to achieve the same function.

In terms of function, the male-projections 220M and female-depressions 220F, and also the extra mounds 21 IM and dimples 21 IF(A), all contribute to the alignment of one reservoir part relative to another when the parts are interconnected.

In some embodiments, such as in Figure 1C, ID and 3, as a result of the staggered-arrangement of the reservoir parts 200, the apparatus may be provided with half-reservoir parts that are half the size of the other parts 200A-H. These half-sized parts can be used at ends of arrangements to provide an upright edge, rather than having a

staggered edge. Hence, for example, in Figure 1C, a half-sized part can be positioned over the uncovered half of the reservoir part 200F. Subsequently, on the third or top layer, a full-sized reservoir part can then be placed over that half-sized part. Likewise at the other side of the tank, above the reservoir part 200B.

Figures 6A to 6H show a series of drawings of a further embodiment in which the male-projections 220M and female-depressions 220F are omitted, without detriment to the overall structural stability of this further embodiment.

Choice of Parallel or Perpendicular Alignment

The alignment-means, in the embodiments, is designed to allow the user to choose to interconnect the reservoir parts 200 from a range of possible alignments. It is possible to connect each of the reservoir parts according to a selection of a range of predetermined alignments which include two or more of linear, perpendicular, orthogonal or other predetermined, non-random arrangements. In the embodiments of Figures IA-D, the user can select between parallel or perpendicular arrangements between interconnected reservoir parts.

To achieve this ability for selection, the alignment-means is in a form that is adapted to enable each of the reservoir-components to engage with at least another of the reservoir-components, such that a reference axis or plane of one reservoir-component is either parallel or perpendicular to the same reference axis or plane of the other reservoir- components to which it is engaged.

For example, in Figure 1C, for the sake of illustration, a suitable reference axis of the reservoir part 200D is its longitudinal central axis A-A. Thus, in the liquid tank IOOC in Figure 1C, the alignment means includes the capacity to interconnect all of the reservoir parts 200 A-F such that all of their longitudinal central axes A-A are aligned in parallel.

In contrast, in the cut-away view in Figure 3, the same system of alignment means includes the capacity to interconnect the reservoir part 200A such that its longitudinal central axis Al-Al is aligned so as to be perpendicular to the same reference axis A2-A2 of its adjacent reservoir part 200B .

Regarding the configuration in Figure 3, in a sense, it may also be regarded as an embodiment of a water tank that can be used to abut a step surface.

Alternative Engagement Mechanisms

This ability of the user to selectively choose between parallel and perpendicular alignments is achieved by the provision of alternative engagement-mechanisms used for interconnecting the reservoir parts.

An example of an alternative engagement-mechanism is seen in Figure 3 in the context of Figures 2 and 4. In Figures 2 and 3 , the upper surface 21 OU of the reservoir part 200B has two upper male-projections 220M.

On the reservoir part 200B, each of these upper male-projections 220M has, located on either of its sides, a pair of mounds 21 IM, 21 IM. These mounds 21 IM, 21 IM are intended to engage with a corresponding pair of dimples 21 IF. However, in Figure 4, the undersurface or lower surface 210L of the identical reservoir part 200A, rather than having just one pair of dimples 21 IF(A), actually has two pairs of dimples, 21 IF(A), 21 IF(A), 21 IF(B), 21 IF(B) i.e. four dimples.

Thus, as in Figure 3, the upper reservoir part 200A is in transverse or perpendicular alignment relative to the lower reservoir part 200B. This transverse alignment occurs when the mounds 211 M, 211M of the lower part 200B engage with one of the pair of dimples 21 IF(B), 21 IF(B). In Figure 4, these dimples 21 IF(B) ₅ 21 IF(B) are located along an axis B-B that is perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis Al-Al of reservoir part 200A.

In contrast, when the user desires to align one reservoir part 200A in parallel with the other reservoir part 200B, the mounds 21 IM, 21 IM of the lower part 200B engage instead with the other of the pair of dimples 21 IF(A), 21 IF(A). This is the arrangement shown in Figure 1C.

Thus, in these embodiments, the user has the choice between parallel and perpendicular alignments, however, in other variations and modifications, the alignment

means can include mechanisms that allow the choice of other angular alignments, such as thirty, forty- five, or sixty degrees, or even other angles of alignment.

Alignment & Resistance Against Lateral Sliding and/or Rotational Movement

In the exemplary embodiments, to avoid the reservoir parts 200 from rotating out of the intended alignment with adjacent reservoir parts, the alignment-means is also adapted, in use, to prevent rotational motion between surfaces of adjacent reservoir- components that touch each other. For example, in the embodiments in Figures IA-D, 3-4 and 5A, the alignment-means is in a form that includes complementary surface configurations 250 located on surfaces of the reservoir-components that, in use, are arranged to act as lateral side surfaces.

These corrugated side surfaces 250, in use, also prevent lateral-sliding movement, i.e. side to side movement, of the connected reservoir-components with respect to one another. The corrugations 250 on the side faces also prevent relative rotational movement when side surfaces of adjacent reservoir parts 200 are engaged face to face. Hence, for example, in Figure IA, the reservoir parts 200A cannot move laterally, from side to side, relative to its adjacent reservoir part 200B, because of the engagement of the corrugated lateral sides of the respective reservoir parts 200B.

The corrugated lateral sides 250, however, do not, in and of themselves, prevent relative vertical movement. For example, in Figure IA, it is possible to lift the reservoir part 200B vertically upwards relative to adjacent parts.

In the embodiments, the corrugations have axes that run from top to bottom of each reservoir part 200, however, in other variations, the corrugations can run from side to side, which would be horizontal when in use. In other embodiments, instead of corrugations, a variety of configurations can be used to hinder or prevent relative movement between adjacent, interconnected reservoir parts. For example, instead of corrugations, there can be a configuration of minor male- projections on the side faces of the reservoir parts 200, which are matched by corresponding minor female-depressions of the side face of an adjacent reservoir part 200.

In other embodiments, the side or lateral faces of the reservoir parts 200 can be provided with a locking mechanism that locks the faces together, and prevents detachment. In such embodiments, a separate unlocking action would be required to detach the reservoir parts from each other.

Resistance To Removal / Sealing

In the embodiments, the reservoir parts 200 are removably interconnected to each other, meaning that, after assembly, the entire liquid tank 100 can be disassembled perhaps for storage or transport. Also, an existing liquid tank 100 can be expanded or reduced in size, either by addition or removal of reservoir parts 200. Thus, the user can alter the overall liquid capacity of the liquid tank.

Even though the reservoir parts can be disconnected from each other, the embodiments include removal-resistance-means to provide a degree of resistance to disconnection. This ensures that such disconnection occurs because of the user's intention, rather than unintentionally.

For example, in the embodiments in Figures IA-D, in order to ensure that any vertical upward movement of the reservoir parts only occurs intentionally, the reservoir parts 200 are provided with removal-resistance-means. In Figure 2, the removal- resistance-means are in the form of resilient O-rings 213 (the O-rings are shown in Figure ID) that fit in circumferential grooves 212 that surround the outer rim of the male- projections 220M. When so fitted, the outer rim of the 0-rings protrude slightly out from the lateral surface of the male-projections 220M. Thus, when the male-projections 220M engage with the female-depressions 220F, the resilient O-rings are slightly compressed.

This compression of the O-rings has an effect of providing a greater degree of sealing between the interface of the outer surface of the male-projections 220M and that of the inner surface of the female-depressions 220F.

The compression of the resilient O-rings 213 also provides a degree of resistance to removal.

In the embodiments, such as in Figure 1C, there will be male-projections 220M and that of inner surface of the female-depressions 220F that are not covered by any part

of an adjacent reservoir part. In those situations, in order to prevent liquid from escaping through the uncovered apertures, the apparatus is preferably provided with cover members that can be used to cover and seal any open apertures.

Arrangement of Reservoir Parts

The attachment mechanism of the reservoir parts 200 enables them to be positioned relative to one another, similar to the manner in which rectangular house- bricks are positioned relative to one another.

In the embodiments, the reservoir parts 200 can be stacked on top of each other, or positioned or attached generally side by side, with at least part or the whole of another of the reservoir part.

For example, in Figure IA, the top reservoir part 200A is positioned alongside the whole of its adjacent reservoir part 200B.

In contrast, in Figure IB, the top corner reservoir part 200F would be positioned only partially, not wholly, alongside its adjacent reservoir parts 200A, 200C, 200D.

In the embodiments, the system of connection enables each of the reservoir parts 200 to connect to two, or three, or more adjacent reservoir parts 200.

Other Alternatives

The liquid that is stored in the liquid tank can be water, or other types of liquid that need to be stored.

In other embodiments, the male projections 220M may either be on the upper surface 210U or the lower surface 210L of the reservoir part. The embodiments may be made of polyproylene or other suitable material, particularly polymer materials that can be blow moulded. The parts 200 may also be made of metal or ceramic.

Some of the apertures in the reservoir parts can be adapted to receive an inlet or an outlet device. The apertures can be threaded, so that the inlet or outlet devices can be

screwed on. An outlet device can be attached to an aperture, closer to the bottom of the liquid tank 100, to allow drainage and emptying of the tank.

The inlet or outlet devices can include a hose that is used for filling the tank. The inlet or outlet devices can include a pump to facilitate filling or emptying of the tank 100.

Surfaces of the reservoir parts may be provided with external lugs, eyelets or rings, through which a cord, rope or metal strap, for example, can be inserted to tie the reservoir parts together to provide a greater degree of security in holding the reservoir parts together.

When a plurality of reservoir parts 200 are stacked with several layers, the uppermost layer of parts 200 may be provided with a breather device, such as a breather tube, that enables air to enter the interior of the tank. This breather tube enables air to enter or exit the tank, as the tank is either filled or emptied of liquid. The breather device is preferably located above the level at which liquid would enter via the liquid inlet.

The embodiments in Figures IA-D have been illustrated with the male projections 220M consistently facing upwards in use, however, other modifications may have the configurations reversed, with the male projections consistently facing downwards in use, with the female depressions consistently facing upwards.

In the embodiments, the male/female connection devices are consistently located on surfaces which, in use, are on upper and lower surfaces. However, in other modifications, there may be embodiments where such male/female connection devices are provided on surfaces that, in use, are located as lateral or side surfaces.

In those areas of the apparatus where portions from adjacent parts are joined, the apparatus may be provided with various seals and sealants sufficient to reduce or avoid leakage of liquid.

In other modifications, each reservoir part 200 may have an individual drainage outlet to enable each part 200 to be individually drained. This is also useful for periodically removing any sediment that collects in each reservoir part.

Strengthening Indentations

By way of background, when each reservoir part 200 is filled with liquid, there may be a tendency for the liquid to exert pressure on the lateral side walls to force theses surfaces outwards, in other words, forcing the panels away from the centre of the reservoir part. This tendency is accentuated as the liquid tank 100 is filled with greater amounts of liquid.

Therefore, in further embodiments, to counteract this force, one or more of the surfaces of the individual reservoir parts may be provided with panel-strengthening- means to resist this tendency for the lateral side panels, of each reservoir part 200, to bulge outwardly under pressure.

Referring to Figure IA, for instance, those panels of a reservoir part 200G that directly abuts a panel of an adjoining reservoir part 200H, would have less of a tendency to bulge, compared to those panels which are at the exterior of the tank, and which do not abut another panel. In a simple embodiment (not illustrated), the panel-strengthening-means can be in the form of an internal strengthening beam that acts only on one side panel, inside the reservoir part 200. For instance, the strengthening beam can extend across the internal side panel of the reservoir part 200 to resist bulging.

In the further embodiment, shown in the series of diagrams in Figures 6 A to 6H, one or more of the planar surfaces of the individual reservoir parts are provided with panel-strengthening-means which, in the embodiment, are in the form of strengthening connectors 201. The connector 201 connects one side panel to the opposite panel, thus holding the opposing panels together. For instance, in the sectional view of Figure 6F, the connector 201 serves to connect the two side panels 202A, 202B together. Thus, when the reservoir part 200 in Figure 6F is filled with liquid, the connector 201 holds the two side panels 202A, 202B together, and resists any tendency for the panels to bulge outwardly and away from each other.

The sectional views in Figures 6F and 6H show that these strengthening connectors 201 resemble square cones that extend inwardly, from each panel, and join at the centre of each reservoir part 200.

Inside each reservoir part 200, the strengthening connector 201 holds the opposing side panels 202A, 202B together, thus, the connector 201 provides extra strength to the side, planar surfaces by providing a structure that is less likely to bulge outward when the reservoir parts are filled with liquid.

Figure 6H shows a halved, sectional view of the interior of two reservoir parts of the further embodiment of Figures 6A to 6H.

In this further embodiment of Figures 6 A to 6H, each reservoir part is provided with an individual drainage outlet 203. The drainage outlet is provided on a corner 204 of the reservoir part that is chamfered.

Uses & Range Of Applications

Embodiments of the invention can be used as water storage tanks, for instance, installed in gardens.

Other embodiments can be used as liquid tanks that perform a role as barrier walls on roadsides, for example.

Embodiments of the invention may be stacked on trucks where the modular nature of the reservoir parts 200 means that a liquid tank of appropriate size can be constructed to fit the storage area of the truck.

Further embodiments can be used wherever there is a need for liquid storage tank that is portable, and is readily assembled in a modular form such that it can create a tank which can be varied in size and shape.

The use of small, modular reservoir parts means that each individual part 200 can be blow moulded, which is a cheaper and/or faster manufacturing process compared to the rotational moulding process required for producing large cylindrical tanks. For example, it may take around 3 hours to produce a large cylindrical tank by rotational moulding, whereas it could take around 3 minutes to blow mould the smaller reservoir part 200.

The embodiments have been advanced by way of example only, and modifications are possible within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

In this specification, where the words comprise or comprises or derivatives thereof are used in relation to elements, integers, steps or features, this is to indicate that those elements, steps or features are present but it is not to be taken to preclude the possibility of other elements, integers, steps or features being present.