Abstract:
A containment enclosure system at least a portion of which is double-walled. An exemplary system of the invention provides enhanced leak protection by monitoring the space within the double-walled portion of the containment enclosure system. The system is capable of providing continuous monitoring of the enclosure, collar, penetrations, and/or joints for potential leaks. Containment enclosures of the invention may be used as, used with, or attached to tanks, piping, dispensers, or any other type of storage container including vessels, boxes, spheres or containers of any shape. These containment enclosures may be underground, partially underground, or aboveground. In addition, these containment enclosures may be completely enclosed or enclosed on the bottom and sides with an open or covered top. Where these containment enclosures are attached to a storage tank or other storage container, embodiments also include the associated apparatus for affixing the enclosures to the storage tank or other storage container.

Description:
[0001]    This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/446,512, filed Feb. 12, 2003, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     
    
     
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
         [0002]    1. Field of the Invention  
           [0003]    Embodiments of the present invention relate to containment enclosures. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention relate to double-walled containment enclosures.  
           [0004]    2. Background Information  
           [0005]    Containment enclosures, sometimes called turbine enclosures or sumps, are currently used to provide a housing for various components, including, for example, a submersible pump, a termination point for double-wall piping, and/or access to fittings or accessories on the top of an underground tank. Containment enclosures may be constructed of fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP), which is a proven material for long-term performance, or other materials such as polyethylene, polypropylene, other plastics, or combinations of these materials.  
           [0006]    A typical containment enclosure is often supplied with non-sealed, watertight, or sealed FRP lids to block access to the interior of the containment enclosure. In a typical installation, a containment collar is affixed to the storage tank and has an adhesive channel opposite the portion mounted to the tank to allow for a sealed joint with the containment enclosure body. The containment enclosure body is typically a cylindrical or polygon shaped body that also includes an adhesive channel to allow for a sealed joint with a reducer or flat top. The reducer or flat top allows for the addition of a lid of the same diameter as the enclosure or for narrowing of the enclosure opening with a lid of a diameter less or equal to that of the enclosure body. As an alternative, the adhesive joints may be replaced with field applied FRP lay ups attaching the parts together.  
           [0007]    Because of the materials contained in these storage tanks, for example gasoline or other hazardous liquids, more and more stringent regulations have led to the use of double-walled storage tanks to allow for extra protection from leaks as well as the ability to detect leaks. Although much of the focus has been on maintaining the integrity of the tank itself, as the need for safer and more reliable systems increases, it may become more desirable to have an entire system, tank and containment enclosure combined, with the safety and durability now embodied in the tank itself.  
           [0008]    Similarly, underground containers are also used for holding and detecting fuel leaks under fuel dispensing pumps, for piping transitions, or for vapor recovery systems. These containers can also benefit by the use of containment enclosures for the same reasons as previously noted for tanks.  
         SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
         [0009]    The present invention provides a containment enclosure system at least a portion of which is double-walled. Preferably, the entire containment enclosure is double-walled. An exemplary system of the invention provides enhanced leak protection by monitoring the space within the double-walled portion of the containment enclosure system. In addition, the exemplary system is preferably capable of providing continuous monitoring of the enclosure, collar, penetrations, and/or joints for potential leaks. Containment enclosures of the invention may be used as, used with, or attached to tanks, piping, dispensers, or any other type of storage container including vessels, boxes, spheres or containers of any shape. These containment enclosures may be underground, partially underground, or aboveground. In addition, as described below, these containment enclosures may be completely enclosed or enclosed on the bottom and sides with. an open or covered top. Where these containment enclosures are attached to a storage tank or other storage container, embodiments also include the associated apparatus for affixing the enclosures to the storage tank or other storage container.  
           [0010]    One embodiment of the invention provides a containment enclosure that includes a body, an access to the interior of the body, a shoulder located next to the access, a reservoir, and a sensor. The access is located near an upper extremity of the body. At least a portion of the body includes an inner wall and an outer wall. The inner wall and the outer wall define a body monitoring space. The body monitoring space preferably has an up-to-down orientation that extends from a top end of the body to a bottom end of the body. Preferably, the body monitoring space surrounds the entire body. The reservoir is in fluid communication with the body monitoring space. The reservoir is configured to supply a fluid to the body monitoring space. The sensor is disposed within the reservoir. The sensor is configured to monitor movement of the fluid within the body monitoring space.  
           [0011]    The reservoir can be disposed within the body in one of several ways. For example, the reservoir can be disposed near the shoulder. In an embodiment in which the shoulder is located near the upper end of an upper extremity of the body, the reservoir is located near the upper end of the body to provide maximum monitoring of the body. The reservoir can be detachably attached to the body. Detachably attached to the body means the reservoir is a unit separable from the body. Alternatively, the reservoir can be fixedly attached to the body. Fixedly attached means that the reservoir is an integrated portion of the body. Preferably, the reservoir can be detachably or fixed attached to the shoulder. Alternatively, the reservoir can be detachably or fixedly attached to the inner wall.  
           [0012]    Preferably, the fluid communication between the reservoir and the body monitoring space is facilitated by a hole or a connector. Alternatively, the fluid communication between the reservoir and the body monitoring space is facilitated by a hose.  
           [0013]    In another embodiment, the containment enclosure further includes a lid. The lid is configured to block the access. The lid includes a lid monitoring space. The lid monitoring space may be in fluid communication with the body monitoring space or monitored independently. The reservoir is configured to supply the fluid to the lid monitoring space. Preferably, the reservoir can be detachably or fixedly attached to the lid. Preferably, the fluid communication between the lid monitoring space and the body monitoring space can be facilitated by a connector or a hose.  
           [0014]    Preferably, the shoulder includes one or more of a vertical portion, a horizontal portion, and a slope portion.  
           [0015]    Another embodiment of the containment enclosure of the invention includes two portions and a sensor. The first portion includes a first monitoring space. The first monitoring space is defined by an inner wall and an outer wall of the first portion. The second portion is configured to be coupled to the first portion. The second portion includes a second monitoring space. The second monitoring space is defined by an inner wall and an outer wall of the second portion. The second monitoring space is in fluid communication with the first monitoring space to form an integrated monitoring space. The sensor is configured to detect fluid movement in the integrated monitoring space. Preferably, a double flanged joint can be used to couple the second portion to the first portion.  
           [0016]    Depending on the type of sensor used, the integrated monitoring space can include a vacuum or it can be pressurized. In still another implementation using a different sensor, the containment enclosure further includes a reservoir. The reservoir is in fluid communication with the integrated monitoring space. A fluid flows freely between the reservoir and the integrated monitoring space. Preferably, the fluid is a brine solution or another fluid.  
           [0017]    Preferably, the containment enclosure can further include a third portion. The third portion has a third monitoring space. The third monitoring space is defined by an inner wall and an outer wall of the third portion. The third monitoring space is in fluid communication with the first monitoring space and the second monitoring space. In this embodiment, the integrated monitoring space includes the third monitoring space in addition to the first monitoring space and the second monitoring space. A first double flange joint can be used to couple the first portion to the second portion.  
           [0018]    A second double flanged joint can be used to couple the third portion to the second portion.  
           [0019]    In still another embodiment, the containment enclosure of the invention includes a collar portion, a top portion, a reservoir, and a sensor. The collar portion is configured to be attached to a vessel. The vessel can be, for example, an underground storage tank. The collar portion includes a collar monitoring space. The collar monitoring space is defined by an inner wall and an outer wall of the collar portion. The top portion is configured to be coupled to the collar portion. The top portion includes a top monitoring space. The top monitoring space is defined by an inner wall and an outer wall of the top portion. The top monitoring space is in fluid communication with the collar monitoring space to form an integrated monitoring space. The reservoir is in fluid communication with the integrated monitoring space. The sensor is configured to monitor fluid movement in the integrated monitoring space.  
           [0020]    Preferably, the reservoir is located near an upper extremity of the top portion. Preferably, the top portion is coupled to the collar portion during field installation.  
           [0021]    In an alternative implementation, the containment enclosure further includes an extension portion. The extension portion is configured to be coupled to the top portion and the collar portion, separating the top portion from the collar portion. The extension portion includes an extension monitoring space. The extension monitoring space is defined by an inner wall and an outer wall of the extension portion. The extension monitoring space is in fluid communication with the top monitoring space and the collar monitoring space. In this configuration, the integrated monitoring space includes the extension monitoring space in addition to the top monitoring space and the collar monitoring space. Preferably, the extension portion is coupled to the collar portion and the top portion during field installation.  
           [0022]    In another embodiment, the present invention provides a containment enclosure for mounting to a tank or other vessel. The containment enclosure includes a collar portion, an extension portion, a top portion, a reservoir, a fluid, and a sensor. The collar portion has a collar monitoring space. The collar monitoring space is defined by an inner wall and an outer wall of the collar portion. The collar portion is configured to be coupled to the tank. The extension. portion has an extension monitoring space. The extension monitoring space is defined by an inner wall and an outer wall of the extension portion. The extension portion is configured to be coupled to the collar portion. The top portion has a top monitoring space. The top monitoring space is defined by an inner wall and an outer wall of the top portion. The top portion is configured to be coupled to the extension portion. The reservoir is coupled to the top portion. The reservoir is in fluid communication with the top monitoring space, the extension monitoring space, and the collar monitoring space. The fluid flows freely within the reservoir, the top monitoring space, the extension monitoring space, and the collar monitoring space. The sensor is configured to monitor movement of the fluid in the reservoir, the top monitoring space, the extension monitoring space, and the collar monitoring space.  
           [0023]    Preferably, the top portion can have a flat top shape or a conical top shape. Preferably, one or more of the top portion, the extension portion, and the collar portion have a round cross section. Alternatively, one or more of the top portion, the extension portion, and the collar portion can have a polygonal cross section, an elliptical cross section, or another cross section. 
       
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0024]    [0024]FIG. 1 is a cross-section view of an exemplary containment enclosure of the invention.  
         [0025]    [0025]FIG. 2 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing a preferred embodiment of the invention that includes a reservoir coupled to a shoulder of the containment enclosure that has a conical top.  
         [0026]    [0026]FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the exemplary containment enclosure of the invention shown in FIG. 2 showing a top portion, an extension portion, and a collar portion of the containment enclosure.  
         [0027]    [0027]FIG. 4 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includes a reservoir coupled to a shoulder of the containment enclosure.  
         [0028]    [0028]FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the exemplary containment enclosure of the invention shown in FIG. 4 showing a top portion, an extension portion, and a collar portion of the containment enclosure.  
         [0029]    [0029]FIG. 6 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includes a reservoir coupled to a shoulder of the containment enclosure that has a flat top.  
         [0030]    [0030]FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the exemplary containment enclosure of the invention shown in FIG. 6 showing a top portion, an extension portion, and a collar portion of the containment enclosure.  
         [0031]    [0031]FIG. 8 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includes a reservoir coupled to a shoulder of the containment enclosure that has a flat top.  
         [0032]    [0032]FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the exemplary containment enclosure of the invention shown in FIG. 8 showing a top portion, an extension portion, and a collar portion of the containment enclosure.  
         [0033]    [0033]FIG. 10 shows different configurations of the reservoir of the invention.  
         [0034]    [0034]FIG. 11 shows additional configurations of the reservoir of the invention.  
         [0035]    [0035]FIG. 12 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that does not include a reservoir coupled to a monitoring space of the containment enclosure&#39;s conical top.  
         [0036]    [0036]FIG. 13 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that does not include a separate reservoir coupled to a monitoring space of the containment enclosure&#39;s flat top.  
         [0037]    [0037]FIG. 14 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includes a reservoir coupled to a monitoring space of the containment enclosure&#39;s flat top using a hose.  
         [0038]    [0038]FIG. 15 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includes a reservoir coupled to a monitoring space of the containment enclosure&#39;s flat top using a connector.  
         [0039]    [0039]FIG. 16 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includes a lid having a lid monitoring space and different coupling means to integrate the lid monitoring space with a body monitoring space of the containment enclosure&#39;s body.  
         [0040]    [0040]FIG. 17 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includes a lid having a lid monitoring space and an exemplary means to integrate the lid monitoring space with a body monitoring space of the containment enclosure&#39;s body.  
         [0041]    [0041]FIG. 18 shows different configurations on how a lid can be coupled to a body of an exemplary containment enclosure of the invention.  
         [0042]    [0042]FIG. 19 shows how an exemplary reservoir of the invention can be configured on a containment enclosure. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION  
       [0043]    Some governmental regulatory agencies require double wall construction of underground storage tanks (UST). The double wall construction provides for the monitoring of a monitoring space for leaks in either the primary or the secondary wall (the inner and the outer walls) of the UST. The monitoring space is also known as the interstitial space or the annular space. Preferred embodiments of the present invention disclose the use of a sensor to monitor the monitoring space of a containment enclosure of the invention. The monitoring space of the invention may be dry, which can include a vacuum or be pressurized. Alternatively, the monitoring space may be filled with a sensing fluid. Specific embodiments are described herein to provide enabling description and best mode, but the scope of the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments.  
         [0044]    A wet monitoring space offers simple sensing by relying upon the pressure head supplied by the sensing fluid to cause the sensing fluid to leak from the monitoring space if a leak is present in either the primary or the secondary walls. A sensor supplied and installed in the monitoring space detects a loss of the sensing fluid, which indicates the leak. Accordingly, by monitoring the pressure head of the sensing fluid, movement of the sensing fluid within the monitoring space (into or out of) can be determined. As a result, leak associated with one or more of the primary and secondary walls can be detected.  
         [0045]    In certain embodiments of the invention, it is noted that a leak in one or both the primary or the secondary wall results in the sensor detecting a loss of the sensing fluid when the leak is at or below the sensor level. As a result, it is preferable that the monitoring space and/or sensor be extended as high as possible in the containment enclosure. Furthermore, it is preferable that the monitoring space be configured appropriately to accommodate the sensor. It is preferable that there be sufficient volume in the monitoring space at the level of the sensor to provide for level changes caused by expansion and contraction of the. sensing fluid. The expansion and contraction can be affected by, for example, changes in temperature, internal pressure on the containment walls, and external pressure on the containment walls without causing the sensor to falsely indicate that one or more of the walls are leaking. It is preferable that the sensor and the sensing fluid be sized and positioned within the containment enclosure to accomplish the aforementioned objectives without interfering or creating obstacles to easy access of the primary space (or the interior) of the containment enclosure for piping and piping access.  
         [0046]    If the containment enclosure includes a lid, the lid may also be secondarily contained with a similar monitoring space. The monitoring space of the lid may or may not be connected to the monitoring space of the body of the containment enclosure. If connected, the lid may include the reservoir. If not connected, the lid may include a second reservoir.  
         [0047]    For embodiments of the present invention that are configured to be installed on an UST, it is preferable that the containment enclosure be configured to include a body. The body preferably includes one or more portions. As described below, preferred embodiments of the invention include a collar portion, a top portion, and an extension portion. Preferably, the collar portion of the containment enclosure is installed on the UST in a factory. The top portion and the extension portion are configured to be field installed to the collar portion. This allows for shipment of the UST and the containment enclosure without incurring costs associated with wide or tall loads. Preferably, each of the top portion, the extension portion, and the collar portion can be configured to have different heights to accommodate field conditions depending on, for example, depth of the UST, size of the containment enclosure, groundwater table, and other factors.  
         [0048]    Preferably, the extension portion is coupled to the collar portion using a double flanged joint, which is described in Applicants&#39; U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/446,512. Similarly, the top portion is coupled to the extension portion using another double flanged joint. If the extension portion is not used, then the top portion is coupled directly to the collar portion. The double flanged joint allows the three portions of the containment enclosure to be placed together and the flanged cavity filled with an adhesive or caulking suitable for exposure to the sensing fluid or any other fluid that may leak into or be otherwise found in the primary space of the containment enclosure or found outside the secondary enclosure. This method provides a field fabricated joint which maintains the monitoring space across the joint. In another words, different monitoring spaces associated with the collar portion, the extension portion, and the top portion can be combined and behave as an integrated monitoring space. As an alternative, the joints may be field applied lay ups on the interior and the exterior.  
         [0049]    Similarly, it is preferable that piping transition boxes, dispenser sumps, or other vessels be field installable in the same manner using the same joining method.  
         [0050]    [0050]FIG. 1 is a cross-section view of an exemplary containment enclosure of the invention. In this exemplary embodiment, containment enclosure  100  is configured to serve as a sump for an UST, depicted in FIG. 1 as tank  102 . Containment enclosure  100  includes collar portion  110 , extension portion  120 , and top portion  130 . As indicated in sections A-A, each of top portion  130 , extension portion  120 , and collar portion  110  can have a round, elliptical, polygonal shape, or other shape. Collar portion  110 , extension portion  120 , and top portion  130  may all be made of a material such as, for example, fiberglass reinforced plastic or of different materials.  
         [0051]    One or more of top portion  130 , extension portion  120 , and collar portion  110  can be combined and be collectively known as body  160 . Body  160 , as shown in FIG. 1, includes interior  101 , access  103 , and shoulder  105 . Interior  101  can be used to house, for examples, components associated with a sump. Access  103  can have a similar, larger, or smaller shape as those depicted in cross-sections A-A. If a dimension associated with access  103  (e.g., a diameter if the shape is a circle) is smaller than that of body  160 , then shoulder  105  would be the area that surrounds access  103 . Preferably, access  103  is located near the top of body  160 .  
         [0052]    Tank  102  includes manway  104 , which is accessible from within interior  101  of containment enclosure  100 . Interior  101  is, in turn, accessible via access  103  of containment enclosure  100 .  
         [0053]    Collar portion  110  is configured to be coupled to tank  102  at joint  112 . Joint  112  may be created using any known methods. Joint  112  can be created in the factory or in the field. Preferably, joint  112  is made in the factory. Preferably, collar portion  110  is welded to tank  102  at joint  112 . Height h1 associated with collar portion  110  can be a variable. In other words, based on design considerations, including transportation restriction, field conditions, etc. For example, h1 can range from several inches to several feet.  
         [0054]    Extension portion  120  is coupled to collar portion  110  at joint  122 . Details of joint  122  are disclosed in Applicants&#39; U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/446,512, filed Feb. 12, 2003, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.  
         [0055]    Joint  122  can be, for example, a double flange joint. Extension portion  120  has a length, h2, which may be field adjustable. In other words, depending on design considerations and field conditions, h2 can be shortened or lengthened, as appropriate. For example, h2 can range from several inches to several feet.  
         [0056]    Top portion  130  is coupled to extension portion  120  at joint  132 . Joint  132  is preferably similar or identical to joint  122 . For example, joint  132  can be a double flange joint. A section of top portion  130  has a length, h3, which may be a variable.  
         [0057]    In other words, depending on design considerations and field conditions, h3 can be shortened or lengthened, as appropriate. For example, h3 can range from several inches to several feet. If extension portion  120  is not used, top portion  130  is coupled directly to collar portion  110 . If multiple portions are not required, then top portion  130  can be modified to be directly coupled to tank  102 .  
         [0058]    As shown in the drawings, top portion  130  can be configured differently. In some embodiments, e.g., FIG. 2, top portion  130  includes a conical top near the shoulder. In some other embodiments, e.g., FIG. 1, top portion  130  includes a flat top near the shoulder. Other configurations are possible.  
         [0059]    Containment enclosure  100  includes leak sensor  150 . Leak sensor  150  can be placed in a reservoir, e.g., reservoir  140  shown in FIG. 1. Leak sensor  150  can be placed in any of top portion  130 , extension portion  120 , or collar portion  110 , depending on design. Other factors that can affect the placement of leak sensor  150 . includes field conditions, governmental regulations, placements of fixtures within containment enclosure  100 , and so on. Preferably, leak sensor  150  is placed in reservoir  140 . Reservoir  140  is preferably placed as high as possible to maximize detection zone of body  160 . For example, reservoir  140  is placed near, or configured to be part of, shoulder  105 , which is located near the upper extremity of body  160 .  
         [0060]    In a preferred embodiment, leak sensor  150  is preferably mounted on an interior wall or inner wall of top portion  130  for monitoring a level of fluid  142  contained in reservoir  140 . Fluid  142  can be, for example, a brine solution.  
         [0061]    [0061]FIG. 2 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing a preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 3 is an exploded view of containment enclosure  200 , which includes collar portion  210 , extension portion  220 , and top portion  230 . Top portion  230  has a conical shaped top or shoulder  205 . In this embodiment, containment enclosure  200  includes reservoir  240 . Reservoir  240  is fabricated into (or being integrated as part of) the conical top or shoulder  205  of containment enclosure  200 .  
         [0062]    Collar portion  210  is coupled to tank  102  at joint  212 . Extension portion  220  is coupled to collar portion  210  at joint  222 . Top portion  230  is coupled to extension portion  220  at joint  232 . Joints  222  and  232  are preferably double flanged joints. Adhesive or caulk  290  is used to couple different portions of containment enclosure  200  at joints  222  and  232 . Preferably, joints  222  and  232  are configured such that fluid  242  (or brine) can flow freely through them, between inner  202  and outer wall  204 , along each of collar portion  210 , extension portion  220 , and top portion  230 .  
         [0063]    Top portion  230  includes top monitoring space  231 . Extension portion  220  includes extension monitoring space  221 . Collar portion  210  include collar monitoring space  211 . Each of monitoring spaces  231 ,  221 , and  211  are defined by inner wall  202  and outer wall  204 , as indicated in FIG. 2. In this embodiment, since monitoring spaces  231 ,  221 , and  211  are in fluid communication, they are collectively known as the integrated monitoring space  203 . As shown in FIG. 2, integrated monitoring space  203  is filled with fluid  242 .  
         [0064]    Reservoir  240  is in fluid communication with integrated monitoring space  203  between walls  202  and  204 . If a leak were to occur in containment enclosure  200 , fluid  242  would gradually leak out causing the level to drop in reservoir  240 . If the level were to drop too low, a sensor placed at location  241  would indicate that containment enclosure  200  is leaking. Any known sensor may be placed at location  241 . For example, a float sensor may be used.  
         [0065]    Preferably, reservoir  240  includes one or more openings  244 ,  246 , and  248 . Preferably, one or more of these openings are closable and leak resistant. Each opening may serve a different purposes. For example, in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2, opening  244  can be used to fill reservoir  240  with fluid  242 . Opening  248  may be used to drain fluid  242  out of reservoir  240 . Opening  246  may be used as a vent to facilitate movement of fluid  242  in reservoir  240  and within integrated monitoring space  203  and to limit the fluid level in reservoir  240  when filling reservoir  240  space with fluid  242 .  
         [0066]    [0066]FIG. 4 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing a preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 5 is an exploded view of containment enclosure  400 , which includes collar portion  210 , extension portion  220 , and top portion  430 . Top portion  430  has a conical shaped top or shoulder  405 . In this embodiment, containment enclosure  400  includes reservoir  440 . Unlike reservoir  240  which is part of containment enclosure  200 , reservoir  440  is a component or unit that is separate from top portion  430 . In other words, reservoir  440  is separately attachable to the conical top or shoulder  405  of containment enclosure  400 .  
         [0067]    Reservoir  440  is attached to the inner wall  402 . Reservoir  440  can be attached to containment enclosure  400  using any known methods. Preferably, reservoir  440  can be attached to inner wall  402  using supports  249  and  250 . Supports  249  and  250  can include one or more of fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, etc.), brackets, hooks, or by other means including by welding, glues, etc.  
         [0068]    One or more holes  403  on inner wall  402  provide annular space continuity or fluid communication between reservoir  440  and integrated monitoring space  203 . Inner wall  402  is preferably an integral or extension part of inner wall  202 . Hole  403  provides a way for fluid  242  to flow between reservoir  440  and integrated monitoring space  203 . Thus, as shown in FIGS.  2 - 5 , a reservoir of the invention can be integrated (e.g., reservoir  240 ) or attachable (e.g., reservoir  440 ) to different containment enclosures of the invention.  
         [0069]    [0069]FIG. 6 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includes a reservoir coupled to a flat top. FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the exemplary containment enclosure of the invention shown in FIG. 6. Containment enclosure  600  includes collar portion  210 , extension portion  220 , and top portion  630 . Reservoir  640  is coupled to top portion  630  that has a flat shape top or shoulder  605 . Reservoir  640  functions similarly to reservoir  240 . It addition, reservoir  640  is coupled to containment enclosure  600  similarly as reservoir  240  is coupled to containment enclosure  200 .  
         [0070]    In this embodiment, top portion  630  is similar to top portion  230  described above, except that top portion  630  includes a flat top, rather than a conical top, and reservoir  640  includes an additional opening  642 . Additional opening  642  can be used to fill reservoir  640  with fluid  242 . In this configuration, since additional opening  642  is located on outer wall  204 , it would be easier to fill reservoir  640  via opening  642  than to do so using opening  244  that is on inner wall  202 . Additionally, opening  642  may also be used to place a sensor in reservoir  640 . In this manner, if the fluid level were to drop too low, the sensor placed through opening  642  would indicate that containment enclosure  600  is leaking. Any known sensor may be placed at location  642 . For example, a float sensor may be used.  
         [0071]    [0071]FIG. 8 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includes a reservoir coupled to a flat top of shoulder  805 . FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the exemplary containment enclosure of the invention shown in FIG. 8. Containment enclosure  800  includes collar portion  210 , extension portion  220 , and top portion  830 . Top portion  830  has a flat shape top or shoulder  805 , and it is coupled to reservoir  840 .  
         [0072]    In this embodiment, top portion  830  is similar to top portion  430  described above. Reservoir  840  is attached to the inner wall  802 . Inner wall  802  is preferably an integral part of inner wall  202 . Hole  803  provides a way for fluid  242  located with reservoir  840  to flow freely between reservoir  840  and integrated monitoring space  203 . Reservoir  840  is attached to containment enclosure by supports  249  and  250 .  
         [0073]    It is noted that any one of reservoir  240 ,  440 ,  640 , and  840  can be confined to a limited portion or the full extent of the shoulder of the containment enclosure. In other words, in one exemplary implementation, the reservoir can extent the entire circumference around the top portion. In another exemplary implementation, the reservoir may extent a smaller portion of the circumference of the top portion. Similarly, the reservoir may extend fully from the inner wall along the full length of the shoulder (see reservoir  1017  in FIG. 11) or any portion thereof (e.g., reservoirs  1015 ,  1016 ,  1021 ,  1023 , etc.).  
         [0074]    Additionally, more than one reservoir may be configured to detect different portions of the containment enclosure or multiple reservoirs may be connected and used as one. For example, each of the top portion, the extension portion, and the collar portion may be associated with a reservoir. Furthermore, different reservoirs may be used to detect leaks in, for example, eastern, northern, southern, and western portions of the containment enclosure.  
         [0075]    [0075]FIGS. 10 and 11 show  24  different configurations of the reservoir that can be coupled to an exemplary containment enclosure of the invention. These configurations are disclosed to indicate some of the many configurations contemplated by the inventors, and they are shown for illustrative purposes. Additional configurations are possible. The invention is not limited to the configurations specifically disclosed herein.  
         [0076]    Reservoir  1001  is configured to be coupled to a containment enclosure on the interior side of the containment enclosure. As shown, reservoir  1001  has fluid communication with a monitoring space via a hole on an inner wall of the containment enclosure. Reservoir  1001  has a vertical wall and a horizontal wall.  
         [0077]    Reservoir  1002  is configured to be coupled to a containment enclosure on the interior side of the containment enclosure. As shown, an inner wall of the containment enclosure forms part of reservoir  1002 , and reservoir  1002  has fluid communication with a monitoring space of the containment enclosure. Reservoir  1002  has a vertical wall and a horizontal wall.  
         [0078]    Reservoir  1003  is configured to be coupled to a containment enclosure. As shown, an inner wall and an outer wall of the containment enclosure forms reservoir  1003 . Indeed, reservoir  1003  is an enlarged portion of a monitoring space of the containment enclosure. The enlargement facilitates placement of a sensor and detection fluid. Reservoir  1003  has an interior slope wall, which is an extension of the inner wall and an exterior slope wall, which is an extension of the outer wall.  
         [0079]    Reservoir  1004  is similar to reservoir  1003 . As shown, reservoir  1004  differs. from reservoir  1003  in that reservoir  1004  has an enlarge portion near the access to the interior of the containment enclosure.  
         [0080]    Reservoir  1005  is similar to reservoir  1004 . As shown, reservoir  1005  differs from reservoir  1004  in that reservoir  1005  does not have an enlarge portion along the sloped portion. It can be described that reservoir  1005  is placed along a portion or the entire circumference of the access to the interior of the containment enclosure.  
         [0081]    Reservoir  1006  is similar to reservoir  1004 . Reservoir  1006  is configured to be coupled to an exterior of the containment enclosure. As shown, reservoir  1006  can be an external reservoir that is coupled to the top portion of the containment enclosure near the access to the interior of the containment enclosure. Reservoirs  1007 ,  1008 , and  1009  are three additional possible variations of a reservoir that can be coupled to a containment enclosure having a conical top or sloped shoulder.  
         [0082]    Reservoirs  1010  through  1023  are exemplary reservoirs that can be coupled to a containment enclosure having a flat top or horizontal shoulder.  
         [0083]    Reservoir  1010  extends along the full horizontal portion of a shoulder of the containment enclosure. As shown, the upper and exterior walls of reservoir  1010  are an extension of the outer wall of the containment enclosure, and the lower and interior walls are an extension of the inner wall of the containment enclosure. Reservoir  1010  has fluid communication with a monitoring space of the containment enclosure, which is defined by the outer and inner walls.  
         [0084]    Reservoir  1011  extends along a fraction of the horizontal portion of the shoulder and the full extent of the vertical portion of the shoulder.  
         [0085]    Reservoir  1012  is a combination of reservoirs  1010  and  1011 . In other words, reservoir  1012  extends fully along the vertical and horizontal portions of the shoulder.  
         [0086]    Reservoir  1013  is another variation that includes a slope wall, which is an extension of the outer wall of the containment enclosure.  
         [0087]    Reservoir  1014  differs from reservoir  1013  in at least one significant aspect. That is, the sloped wall of reservoir  1014  is not an extension of the outer wall of the containment enclosure. Rather, the sloped wall is an additional wall that serves as an exterior wall of reservoir  1014  while an extension of the outer wall serves as an interior wall of reservoir  1014 . Reservoir  1014  has fluid communication with the monitoring space of the containment enclosure via one or more holes.  
         [0088]    Reservoirs  1010  through  1014  are configured to be coupled to an exterior of the containment enclosure. Reservoir  1015  through  1023  are configured to be coupled to an interior of the containment enclosure. As indicated, the reservoir can extend partially or fully between the inner wall of the containment enclosure to the. edge of the access to the interior of the containment enclosure.  
         [0089]    Reservoir  1015  includes a horizontal wall that is coupled to the inner of the containment enclosure. Reservoir  1015  also includes a vertical wall that joins the horizontal wall to the shoulder, which is an extension of the outer wall. Reservoir  1015  has fluid communication with the monitoring space through one or more holes on the inner.  
         [0090]    Reservoir  1016  differs from reservoir  1015  in that the horizontal and vertical walls of reservoir  1016  are an extension of the inner wall of the containment enclosure. It can be described that reservoir  1016  is an enlarged portion of the monitoring space that is located near the shoulder.  
         [0091]    Reservoir  1017  is similar to reservoir  1016 . However, reservoir  1017  extends fully from the outer wall to the edge of the access to the interior of the containment enclosure.  
         [0092]    Reservoirs  1021 ,  1022 , and  1023  are additional variations of reservoir  1017 . Reservoir  1021  is an illustration that the reservoir can be placed in a middle portion of the shoulder. Reservoir  1022  indicates that the reservoir can be placed near the monitoring space. Reservoir  1023  indicates the reservoir can be placed away from the monitoring space and be closer to the access to the interior of the containment enclosure.  
         [0093]    Reservoir  1024  demonstrates that the reservoir can also be placed above the shoulder.  
         [0094]    Reservoirs  1018 ,  1019 , and  1020  are three configurations indicating arrangements similar to those of reservoirs  1021 ,  1022 , and  1023  can be implemented for reservoirs with a sloped wall.  
         [0095]    [0095]FIG. 12 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that does not include a reservoir. Containment enclosure  1200  includes top portion  1230 . In this embodiment, sensor  1250  can be placed anywhere in integrated monitoring space  1203 , which includes a first monitoring space associated with top portion  1230 , a second monitoring space associated with extension portion  220 , and a third monitoring space associated with collar portion  210 . Sensor  1250  can be placed via, for example, opening  1232  of top portion  1230 . Any known sensor may be used. Integrated monitoring space  1203  can be a vacuum or pressurized or fluid filled.  
         [0096]    [0096]FIG. 13 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that does not include a reservoir. The embodiment shown in FIG. 13 is similar to that which is depicted in FIG. 12. Containment enclosure  1300  includes top portion  1330 . In this embodiment, top portion  1330  is different from top portion  1230  in its flat top shape. Top portion  1230  depicted in FIG. 12 has a conical top shape.  
         [0097]    [0097]FIG. 14 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includes a reservoir coupled to a monitoring space of the containment enclosure&#39;s flat top using a hose. Unlike any of the reservoirs previously described, none of the walls of reservoir  1440  is an integrated part or otherwise attached to a wall of containment enclosure  1300 . Rather, reservoir  1440  is an independent component. Reservoir  1440  has fluid communication with integrated monitoring space  1203  via hose  1444 . Hose  1444  can be attached to integrated monitoring space  1203  using any known methods, including the use of quick release connectors or other coupling devices. Reservoir  1440  is preferably placed at a location as high as possible to maximize detection zone of containment enclosure  1300 . For example, bracket  1446  may be attached to containment enclosure  1300  to support reservoir  1440 . Alternatively, reservoir  1440  may be hung using a hook or a like device. Further, if a lid or cover is used to cover the access to the interior of containment enclosure  1300 , reservoir  1440  may be hung under the lid.  
         [0098]    [0098]FIG. 15 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includes reservoir  1540  coupled to a monitoring space of the containment enclosure&#39;s flat top using connector  1544 . Connector  1544  is preferably a quick release connector. In this embodiment, fluid communication between reservoir  1540  and integrated monitoring space  1203  is facilitated by connector  1544 . No hose is required.  
         [0099]    [0099]FIG. 16 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includes a lid having a lid monitoring space and different coupling means to integrate the lid monitoring space with a body monitoring space of the containment enclosure&#39;s body.  
         [0100]    Containment enclosure  1600  includes lid  1670  and body  1660 . Lid  1670  includes lid monitoring space  1672  and body  1660  includes body monitoring space  1662 . Lid monitoring space  1672  can extend the full length of lid  1670  as shown in the upper figure, or it can have a smaller extent (e.g., near the middle of lid  1670 ) as indicated on the lower figure.  
         [0101]    Sensor  150  can be placed in lid monitoring space  1672  or body monitoring space  1662 . Lid monitoring space  1672  has fluid communication with body monitoring space  1662 . The fluid communication is made possible by hose  1674  (see FIGS. 16 a ,  16   b ,  16   c ,  16   d , and  16   e ). Hose  1674  can be placed within containment enclosure  1600  (see FIGS. 16 a ,  16   b , and  16   e ) or outside of it (see FIGS. 16 c  and  16   d ). Gasket  1676  or other suitable means, including O-rings and the like, can be used to provide seal between lid  1670  and body  1660 .  
         [0102]    One or more valves (not shown) can be used to shut off fluid communication between lid monitoring space  1672  and body monitoring space  1662  or along hose  1674 . These valves, if used, enable disconnection of hose  1674  or separation of lid  1670  from body  1660  without losing gas, liquid, or disturbing vacuum or air pressure in one or both of between lid monitoring space  1672  and body monitoring space  1662 .  
         [0103]    [0103]FIG. 17 is a partial view of another exemplary containment enclosure of the invention, showing another embodiment of the invention that includes a lid having a lid monitoring space and an exemplary means to integrate the lid monitoring space with a body monitoring space of the containment enclosure&#39;s body. Containment enclosure  1700  includes lid  1770  and body  1660 , which are associated with lid monitoring space  1772  and  1662 , respectively. When lid  1770  is in a closed position as shown in FIG. 17, lid monitoring space  1772  has fluid communication with body monitory space  1662 . Gaskets  1666  and  1776  provides seal to provide integrity of lid monitoring space  1772  and body monitory space  1662 .  
         [0104]    [0104]FIG. 18 shows different configurations on how a lid can be coupled to a body of an exemplary containment enclosure of the invention. Systems  1801  through  1811  are eleven exemplary systems that can be used to control fluid communication between lid  1770  and body  1660 .  
         [0105]    [0105]FIG. 19 shows how an exemplary reservoir of the invention can be configured on a containment enclosure. FIG. 19 shows two exemplary containment enclosures. Containment enclosure  1910  includes a bottom wall and four side walls. Each of the bottom and side walls includes an inner wall and an outer wall that define monitoring space  1903  (see section A-A). Containment enclosure  1910  has an open top. The open top can be configured to receive a lid or cover. Containment enclosure  1920  includes a bottom wall and four side walls. In addition, containment enclosure  1920  further includes a top wall. Each of the top, bottom, and side walls includes an inner wall and an outer wall that define monitoring space  1903 .  
         [0106]    Each of containment enclosures  1910  and  1920  can be configured to include reservoir  1940  and sensor  1950 . Fluid  1942  within reservoir  1940  can flow freely into monitoring space  1903  via one or more holes  1944  that provides fluid communication between reservoir  1940  and monitoring space  1903 . Sensor  1950  is configured to monitoring fluid  1942 . For example, sensor  1960  can be configured to detect the level of fluid  1942  within reservoir  1940 , thereby detecting any leak associated with monitoring space  1903 .  
         [0107]    In the foregoing detailed description, systems and methods in accordance with embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, the present specification and figures are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. The scope of the invention is to be further understood by the numbered exhibits appended hereto, and by their equivalents.