Patent ID: 6514009
Filing Date: 2003-02-04
Classification: B65D

Abstract:
A storage vessel system for subterranean installation in ground, the system comprising:(a) a storage vessel having a weight; (b) a support structure connected with the storage vessel, wherein the support structure defines a vessel housing, wherein the storage vessel is contained within the vessel housing, and wherein the support structure is comprised of: (i) a bearing surface adapted for contacting the ground such that the system is supported on the ground; (ii) a vessel anchor for anchoring the storage vessel against an upward buoyancy force exerted on the storage vessel when an infiltrating fluid at least partly submerges the storage vessel, such that the upward buoyancy force is transferred to the support structure; (iii) a permeable exterior shell which permits the infiltrating fluid to infiltrate the vessel housing such that the upward buoyancy force is exerted on the storage vessel; and (iv) a packing material contained within the vessel housing by the exterior shell, the packing material substantially surrounding the storage vessel in order to protect the storage vessel and in order to support the storage vessel such that the weight of the storage vessel is transferred to the support structure.