Patent Publication Number: US-8985897-B2

Title: Method and apparatus for capturing, storing, and distributing storm water

Description:
This application is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent Ser. No. 12/367,186, filed Feb. 6, 2010, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. Nos. 61/026,656 and 61/117,000, filed Feb. 6, 2008 and Nov. 21, 2008, respectfully, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     Embodiments of the present invention are generally related to methods and apparatus for capturing, storing, and distributing storm water. In addition, one embodiment of the present invention employs devices for capturing and treating storm water that is to be used for irrigation, for example. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Storm water collection systems are commonly used to capture excess rain and ground water from a variety of surfaces including, paved streets, parking lots, sidewalks, and roofs. Typically, storm water collection systems receive water from street gutters, grates, or drains and vary in size. Conventional storm water collection systems simply gather the excess water and discharge it into a river, lake, canal, reservoir, ocean, dry well, or other recharge basin. Often, however, the amount of water will overwhelm the storm water collection system, which causes backups and localized flooding. Further, due to the scarce availability of water in many arid climates, the retention and use/redistribution of water is becoming a preferable alternative. Thus, it would be advantageous to provide a storm water retention system that prevents flooding and/or storm water waste by treating, storing, and later utilizing the water for other purposes. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     It is one aspect of the present invention to provide a system for capturing, retaining, conveying, and/or treating storm water. More specifically, in one embodiment a storm water vault is provided that includes one or more modular precast components that captures and retains storm water. One embodiment of the present invention is comprised of an exterior perimeter wall having a plurality of columns positioned therein. A plurality of roof panels are also provided and supported by at least the exterior wall and a column. Alternative embodiments omit individual columns and utilize individual vaults which have at least two walls and an integral deck, and which are designed to be used in combination with other individual vaults. The roof panels may include curb details and/or sidewalk details and retention systems to direct or redirect the flow path of water to optimize collection. Alternatively, overlays, such as pavers, permeable pavers, dirt, gravel, asphalt or other materials may be placed above the roof panels, thereby concealing the vault and providing an aesthetic surface. Roof panels preferably include a grate to provide a fluid flow path into the vault. Alternatively, permeable pavers may be used to allow water to ingress into the retention vault. 
     With respect to the retention system, one embodiment of the present invention employs a plurality of columns to support one or more roof panels of the vault. The columns may be cylindrical, prismatic, or any other practical geometric shape. In addition, the columns may be solid, hollow, or combinations thereof. Hollow columns are desirable due to their reduced weight and have the added benefit of possibly providing a fluid flow path therethrough, which will be described in further detail below. It is envisioned that the columns, walls, and roof panels may be constructed of a precast concrete material. 
     It is another aspect of the present invention to provide roof panels and/or walls that selectively provide access to the internal portions of the storm water vault. More specifically, access to prior art underground systems is typically gained through a manhole or limited access hatch openings wherein cleaning and equipment installation is limited. Conversely, embodiments of the present invention employ easily removable roof panels that facilitate the access of personnel equipment to improve safety and enhance maintenance. The roof panel can be removable to allow cleaning mechanisms to enter the vault. Such panels may generally include pick points or other known devices to facilitate interconnection with lifting cables or chains. One of skill in the art will appreciate that lifting jacks, for example, may be integrated into the vault that are used to selectively lift the roof panel. 
     It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a vault associated with a water treatment mechanism. As mentioned above, some of the columns used to support the roof panels may be at least partially hollow that are placed in operable communication with a grate, or other device integrated into the roof panel. As water flows through the grate it will enter the column and discharge through an outlet formed in the column to fill the storm water vault. Thus, some embodiments of the present invention may employ columns with an integrated filtration device. For example, Vortechs® storm water treatment system, which is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,759,415, and which is incorporated by reference herein, may be used in conjunction with the columns to provide filtration. Flo-gard® Dual Vortex Hydrodynamic Separator for Storm Water Treatment, which is described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,182,874, which is incorporated by reference herein, may also be employed. A “BaySaver” Storm Water Treatment System or other similar devices may also be used. Embodiments of the present invention may also employ the Jellyfish™ and/or Sorbfilter™ system sold by Imbrium. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that various storm water treatment filtration and particle separation devices may be used in conjunction with various embodiments of the present invention. Such a water treatment device may also be included in numerous other locations within the vault, adjacent to the vault, or may be used in conjunction with the vault. 
     It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a storm water vault that includes additional water quality treatment devices. Embodiments of the present invention may also include sand filters, baffle boxes, oil separators, or other filtering devices known in the art in addition to the particulate filtration devices described above. Embodiments of the present invention also may employ a gravel filter base that may include medias like Sorbtive™ to remove specific pollutants. 
     It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a storm water vault that is customizable. More specifically, as briefly mentioned above, the components used to construct the storm water vault are preferably made of a precast concrete material. Consequently, the components may be scaled in size and shape to fit any particular building requirement. 
     It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a storm water vault that may be used in multiple ways. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is used for the collection of surface storm water. Yet another embodiment of the present invention is used for groundwater recharge, i.e. exfiltration. Yet another embodiment of the present invention is used for the collection, filtration, or hydrodynamic treatment of the storm water. 
     It is still yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a system that may be positioned under various overlays. More specifically, some embodiments of the present invention are contemplated to be used with asphalt, gravel, and/or earth, which will be succinctly shown in the figures described below. Other embodiments of the present invention, however, are to be used with pavers or other surface applications that are either permeable or impermeable. That is, a plurality of smaller pavers that allow fluid to drain through or between adjacent pavers may be used independently of or in conjunction with the roof panels. This system may alleviate the need for grating or other mechanisms, wherein fluid accumulates between individual pavers and permeates into the storm water vault via seams, cracks or other mechanisms below the pavers. The overlay may incorporate permeable pavers directly applied to the roof panels or on a gravel overlay. With reference to the latter configuration, the gravel base may incorporate a filter material, such as Sorbtive™ or other media, that specifically targets and absorbs certain pollutants, such as oil, gasoline, phosphorous, nitrogen and other hydrocarbons or chemicals which may leak from parked cars, delivery trucks, etc. 
     It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a storm water vault that provides storage for future use. More specifically, it is contemplated that the water is stored and/or treated for indefinite periods and subsequently used for irrigation and/or emergency fire protection. One skilled in the art will also appreciate that the storm water vault may be employed as simply as a retention device to prevent flooding, and incorporates a permeable floor to allow for the gradual infiltration of water into the earthen material. Alternatively, the floor may be impermeable and used for storage. This embodiment may include a pumping mechanism for transferring fluid from the vault to an irrigation system, for example. The pumping mechanism also selectively transfers fluid from the vault to prevent overfilling to another vault or location. Accordingly, a fluid level sensing device, such as a float or other mechanical or electrical-mechanical device, may be employed wherein the pump will engage if the fluid level within the vault reaches a predetermined level similar to a sump pump. Further embodiments of the present invention include sumps or sump holes. 
     As mentioned above, one embodiment of the present invention employs a permeable roof to permit storm water to pass into the vault. The permeable lid provides means for directly transporting the storm water into the vault. As water flows through the permeable lid it will enter into and fill the storm water vault. It is also envisioned that at least a portion of the walls be permeable to further facilitate the movement of storm water to the vault. 
     It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a storm water system that stores water for future use and distributes the water to specified destinations. More specifically, a distribution mechanism is provided that may include but is not limited to a storage tank, a filter pump, piping, tubing, or other means for transportation. Once the storm water is treated the water may be stored in a storage tank to be used for a variety of future uses, including irrigation, emergency fire protection, and municipal water source. One skilled in the art will also appreciate that the storm water system may be employed as a temporary retention device to prevent flooding. 
     It is yet another aspect of embodiments of the present invention to provide a system that is comprised of permeable modules. The modules are comprised of a top surface and associated sidewalls with discreet openings that allow for the ingress of water. The system also includes a filter fabric positioned adjacent to the modules to retain leaves and other debris or contaminants. Further, aggregate material and permeable pavers are placed above the filter fabric to provide a system for capturing water that falls on the pavers. More specifically, water passes through the permeable pavers, the permeable aggregate material, the filter fabric, and through holes or slots incorporated into the top surface and/or sidewalls of the modules. It is also envisioned that the modules may include an impermeable liner for retaining the collected water for future use. 
     The Summary of the Invention is neither intended nor should it be construed as being representative of the full extent and scope of the present invention. The present invention is set forth in various levels of detail in the Summary of the Invention as well as in the attached drawings and the Detailed Description of the Invention and no limitation as to the scope of the present invention is intended by either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summary of the Invention. Additional aspects of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the Detailed Description, particularly when taken together with the drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the general description of the invention given above and the detailed description given below, serve to explain the principles of these inventions. 
         FIG. 1  is a partial perspective view of a storm water vault of one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a column employed by the storm water vault shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a front elevation view of the storm water vault showing the interconnection of two adjacent roof panels; 
         FIG. 4  is a sectional view showing the interconnection of a roof panel of the storm vault to a wall thereof; 
         FIG. 5  is a top elevation view showing the interconnection of two adjacent walls; 
         FIG. 6  is a partial perspective view of the storm water vault of another embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a column employed by the storm water vault shown in  FIG. 6 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a partial perspective view of the storm water vault of another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 9  is a top plan view of the storm water vault of embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 10  is a side elevation view of the storm water vault of embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 11  is a top plan view of a storm water vault of another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 12  is a top plan view similar to  FIG. 11  wherein the roof panels have been omitted for clarity; 
         FIG. 13  is a sectional view of  FIG. 11  showing the interconnection of the roof panel to the wall; 
         FIG. 14  is a cross-sectional perspective view of a system for capturing, storing, treating and distributing storm water of one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 15  is a is a partial top plan view of  FIG. 14 , showing the permeable surface structure of one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 16  is a partial perspective view of a system for capturing, storing, and distributing storm water of another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional perspective view of a system for capturing, storing, and distributing storm water of another embodiment of the present invention; and 
         FIG. 18  is a top plan view of a module of another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 19  is a cross section of  FIG. 18 ; 
         FIG. 20  is a partial cross section of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 21  is an elevation view of a system of one embodiment that is generally comprised of a series of modules; 
         FIG. 22  is a partial cross sectional view of  FIG. 21 ; 
         FIG. 23  is a perspective view of a module according to one embodiment; 
         FIG. 24  is a perspective view of a module according to one embodiment; 
         FIG. 25  is a perspective view of a combination of a plurality of modules according to one embodiment; 
         FIG. 26  is a perspective view of a combination of a plurality of modules according to one embodiment; 
         FIG. 27  is a perspective view of a module according to one embodiment; and 
         FIG. 28  is a perspective view of a fluid containment system according to one embodiment. 
     
    
    
     To assist in the understanding of the present invention the following list of components and associated numbering found in the drawings is provided herein: 
     
       
         
           
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                 # 
                 Component 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
            
               
                 2 
                 Storm water vault 
               
               
                 6 
                 Wall 
               
               
                 10 
                 Support column 
               
               
                 14 
                 Roof panel 
               
               
                 18 
                 Grate 
               
               
                 22 
                 Fill 
               
               
                 26 
                 Inlet/Outlet 
               
               
                 30 
                 Base 
               
               
                 34 
                 Column outlet 
               
               
                 38 
                 Opening 
               
               
                 42 
                 Footer 
               
               
                 46 
                 Hole 
               
               
                 50 
                 Thru hole 
               
               
                 54 
                 Seal member 
               
               
                 58 
                 Dowel 
               
               
                 60 
                 Finished grade 
               
               
                 62 
                 Sealant 
               
               
                 66 
                 Overlay 
               
               
                 70 
                 Joint 
               
               
                 74 
                 Rod 
               
               
                 76 
                 Sump 
               
               
                 78 
                 Channel 
               
               
                 82 
                 Grout 
               
               
                 86 
                 Wrap 
               
               
                 90 
                 Lift point 
               
               
                 98 
                 Fluid 
               
               
                 102 
                 Permeable pavers 
               
               
                 106 
                 Asphalt 
               
               
                 110 
                 Weep hole 
               
               
                 114 
                 Grate 
               
               
                 118 
                 Permeable lid 
               
               
                 122 
                 Permeable base/materials 
               
               
                 126 
                 Treatment or reuse tank 
               
               
                 130 
                 Reuse line 
               
               
                 134 
                 Manhole 
               
               
                 138 
                 Downspout 
               
               
                 142 
                 Roof 
               
               
                 150 
                 Crosswalk 
               
               
                 154 
                 Module 
               
               
                 158 
                 Roof panel 
               
               
                 162 
                 Sidewall 
               
               
                 166 
                 Flow ports 
               
               
                 168 
                 Upper opening 
               
               
                 170 
                 Top surface 
               
               
                 172 
                 Lower opening 
               
               
                 174 
                 Bottom surface 
               
               
                 178 
                 Window opening 
               
               
                 180 
                 Window 
               
               
                 182 
                 Stone 
               
               
                 186 
                 Casing material 
               
               
                 190 
                 Flo-Cell 
               
               
                 194 
                 Filter fabric 
               
               
                 198 
                 Aggregate material 
               
               
                 202 
                 Pavers 
               
               
                 204 
                 Permeable Pipe 
               
               
                 206 
                 Void 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the invention or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course, that the invention is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 1-10 , a storm water vault  2  of one embodiment of the present invention is shown that is comprised of a plurality of walls  6  that define a perimeter shape of a water containment system. A plurality of columns  10  are positioned within the walls  6  and support a plurality of roof panels  14 . Some of the columns  10  may be hollow and in fluid communication with a grate  18  for the transportation of water from the roof panel  14  to the water containment system or storm water vaults. 
     The storm water vault  2  depicted in  FIG. 1  includes a plurality of interconnected precast walls  6  positioned on a fill material  22  such as graded soil or gravel. The assembly shown may also rest on a non-permeable surface as shown in  FIG. 8 . The columns  10  support a plurality of roof panels  14  that rest on the columns  10  and/or the walls  6 . At least one wall  6  may include an inlet/outlet  26  to allow fluid to ingress and egress depending on the application. The roof panels  14  in one embodiment of the present invention are made of a composite design that receives poured concrete and comprises a driving surface. Thus, the roof panel  14  may be configured to handle traffic loads with or without the incorporation of gravel, concrete or paved surfaces. 
       FIGS. 2 and 7  show columns  10  that depict alternative embodiments of the present invention. More specifically, the columns  10  are generally supported by a base  30  that is designed to rest on the gravel or soil surface, i.e., “fill”  22 . The column  10  shown in  FIG. 2  is substantially hollow wherein the grate  18  is positioned on an upper end to allow the ingress and egress of water from above the grate  18 , into the column  10 , out of a column outlet  34  and into the water containment system. The column  10  of  FIG. 7  additionally includes a plurality of openings  38  that allow the flow of fluids therethrough. Although a prismatic column is shown, one skilled in the art will appreciate that many other shapes of columns may be employed without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, the column  10  may include an integrated water treatment device such as a particulate filter. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3 , the interconnection of adjacent roof panels  14  is shown. Roof panels  14  in one embodiment include channels  78  that abut to provide a cavity for the receipt of grout  82  or other sealant. Additionally, a wrap  86  may be applied to the joint to prevent the ingress of water, which could damage the vault if frozen. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 4 , a wall  6  of one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The wall  6  includes a footer  42  that rests on the fill  22 , or adjacent thereto. Preferably, the fill  22  is comprised of pea gravel or other granular material. Embodiments of the present invention, however, may also employ a filtering fill with varying sizes of gravel or rock material to selectively control the relative permeability of flow therethrough. The walls  6  of some embodiments of the present invention may include a tapped hole  46 , i.e., blind-hole associated with an upper edge thereof. The tapped hole  46  is designed to align with a thru-hole  50  provided in the roof panel  14  to receive a dowel  58 . Seal members  54  may also be placed between the roof panel  14  and the wall  6 . The dowel  58  is comprised of a rigid material such as re-bar, is then placed located in the thru-hole  50  of the roof panel  14  and into the tapped hole  46  of the wall  6 . The dowel  58  substantially prevents translational motion between the roof panel  14  and the wall  6 . A sealant  62  may also be applied to the thru-hole  50  to secure the dowel  58  in the tapped hole  46 . After the dowel  58  has been placed, the assembly is brought to finish grade  60  by the addition of an overlay  66 . The thru-hole  50  may employ a female insert that is cast into the wall  6  or roof panel  14 . The female insert is designed to receive a male, threaded portion of the dowel  58  to provide a continuous structural connection. In addition, the dowel may be of such a length to extend above the roof panel  14  for interconnection to rebar of the sidewalk or other surface positioned above the vault  2 . This configuration provides additional manufacture and assembly tolerance. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 5 , a joint  70  defined by two adjacent walls  6  is shown. Here, two adjacent walls are brought together and spaced by at least one rod  74 . Thereafter, a sealant  62  is injected between the walls  6  to create a generally water tight structure. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 6-8 , one embodiment of the invention similar to that shown in  FIGS. 1-5  is provided. Here, a plurality of columns  16  employ an opening  38  that facilitates the multi-directional flow of fluid. The columns  10  shown also are cost effective such that less concrete is needed to create a vault  2 . Further, the nature of the columns  10  allows the storage of additional fluid. Preferably, the column bases  30  rest on a fill material  22 , such as gravel. Alternatively, as shown in  FIG. 8 , a non-permeable material, such as concrete, may be used instead of fill and placed adjacent to the column bases  30 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 9 and 10 , a storm water vault  2  of one embodiment of the invention is shown. The vault  2  may include at least one sump  76 . The walls  6  of the vault  2  define a storm water storage volume. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 11-13 , yet another embodiment of the present invention is shown. More specifically, a wall  6  having a footer  42  defines a water containment volume of the storm water vault  2 . A plurality of roof panels  14  is added to a top surface of the wall  6 . The roof panels  14  are also joined to the wall via a retention pin or dowel  58  that is placed in a thru-hole  50  provided in the roof panel  14  and a tapped hole  46  positioned in the wall  6 . Fill  22  also may be used within the containment volume provided by the wall  6 . In addition, overlay  66  may be added above the roof panel  14  to conceal the storm water vault  2 . The roof panels  14  may also include a grate  18  or other opening that allows the ingress of water. Furthermore, the roof panel  14  may include at least one lift point  90  to facilitate the transportation and placement of the roof panels  14 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 14 and 15 , a system for capturing, storing, and distributing storm water  98  in another embodiment of the present invention is shown. More specifically, water  98  is collected from both permeable  102  and non-permeable  106  (i.e., asphalt) surfaces. For example, the storm water system of the present invention may collect storm water  98  from non-permeable structures  106 , such as parking lots, rooftops, sidewalks, and paved streets. Moreover, embodiments of the present invention are integrated into and under a commercial parking lot that includes a permeable surface structure  102  and a sub-surface storm water vault  2 . 
     The permeable surface structure is specifically shown in  FIG. 15  and comprises a plurality of permeable pavers  102  and a plurality of weep holes  110 . The permeable pavers  102  transport the storm water from the surface to the sub-surface vault  2 . As the storm water passes through the permeable pavers  102  the water will be captured inside the vault  2  below. The permeable pavers  102  may be made of any material that is permeable to water, such as porous concrete, plastic, gravel, or other permeable hardscape flooring material. One of skill in the art will appreciate that any size or shape of permeable paver may be utilized for this purpose. In the embodiment shown, weep holes  110  are employed to facilitate water drainage between adjacent pavers. One of skill in the art will appreciate that any number of permeable pavers  102  and weep holes  110  may be utilized and configured depending on a variety of factors, such as amount of rain fall, surface size, and aesthetics. One skilled in the art will also appreciate that other permeable overlays may be employed to transport storm water to the vault. 
     In one embodiment of the present invention, a surface grate  114  is also employed to capture and remove excess or run-off storm water. The grate  114  is provided to facilitate the transport of storm water into the vault  2  via an inlet positioned beneath the drainage pipe (not shown) that is interconnected to the vault  2 . As the storm water encounters the grate  114 , the water is channeled into the drainage pipe and then transported and deposited into the vault  2 . Thus, when there is substantial surface water, such as during a heavy rain storm, the grate  114  captures any excess surface storm water not absorbed by the permeable pavers  102  and/or a permeable lid  118 . Embodiments of the present invention also employ multiple surface grates  114  to enhance the water collection capability of the system. A network of interconnected grates may also be used to filter debris from the storm water. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 14 , the sub-surface storm water vault  2  is comprised of a plurality of exterior walls  6  and a permeable lid  118  that form a compartment capable of capturing and retaining storm water  98 . The permeable lid  118  is supported by the plurality of exterior walls  6 . One skilled in the art will appreciate that the permeable lid  118  may be selectively interconnected to the external walls by any number of securing mechanisms. The vault  2  is positioned generally vertically below the permeable surface structure  102 . Thus, in one embodiment of the present invention, the vault  2  is positioned underground. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the vault  2  could also be positioned partially underground. Overlay  66 , such as pavers, dirt, gravel, or asphalt may be placed above the permeable lid, thereby concealing the vault  2 . As water flows through the permeable pavers  102  and through the permeable lid  118 , the storm water enters into and fills the vault  2 . The storm water system may also include permeable base members  122  surrounding the vault to facilitate the transport of storm water into the vault. 
     In one embodiment of the present invention, the storm water system employs a water treatment mechanism  126 . The water treatment mechanism  126  may be comprised of an interconnected treatment tank. One of skill in the art will appreciate that any number of connecting devices, such as piping or other tubing, may be used to interconnect the vault  2  to the treatment tank  126 . After water drains from the surface through the permeable structures  102  and into the vault  2 , it is preferably transported through appropriate piping into a treatment tank  126 . In one embodiment, the treatment tank  126  includes a separator to separate fluid and oil and any particulate matter. It is envisioned that once separated, the oil will be compartmentalized for storage and/or removal. The storm water system may also include a particle separator for removing debris and suspended particles from the storm water. The storm water system may additionally include one or more filtration devices or water treatment apparatus. One of skill in the art will appreciate that different separators and filters may be utilized to treat and remove pollutants, chemicals, fertilizers, sediment, and oils from the storm water depending on individual system requirements. 
     The storm water system may also include additional water quality treatment devices, such as hydrodynamic devices, sorbfilters, jellyfish filters, sand filters, coalescing plate oil water separators, baffle style oil water separators, and other treatment devices known in the art. It is envisioned that the water treatment and/or quality devices may be included elsewhere within the storm water system. It is also envisioned that such water treatment and/or quality devices be integrated into the system so that the water flowing into the vault is treated prior to filling the storm water vault. 
     Embodiments of the present invention employ a distribution mechanism to distribute the storm water for a variety of end uses. The distribution mechanism may include a storage tank, a centrifugal pump, and corresponding piping to transport the water to a second or third location. In one embodiment of the present invention, a reuse line  130  is provided to transport water from the storage tank  2  to a destination where the water will be used, such as a garden center or municipal water line. A centrifugal pump is provided to pump the water out of the storage tank  2  and into and through the reuse line(s)  130 . It is envisioned that the reuse line(s)  130  will provide water to a variety of end uses, such as irrigation, landscaping, horticulture and/or agriculture, emergency fire protection, and municipal water sources. Importantly, unlike prior art storm water systems where the storm water is disposed of, the present invention stores and utilizes the storm water for multiple future uses. The storm water system of the present invention provides a system for low impact development, promotes water sustainability, and provides a viable source of reusable water. 
     Further, one embodiment of the present invention includes manholes  134 , or other limited access openings, that selectively provide access to the internal portion of the storm water system. The manholes  134  facilitate the access of personnel and equipment and provide access to the system for cleaning, equipment installation, maintenance, and repairs. Underground access is governed by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”) regulations under confined space guidelines. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 16 , another embodiment of the present invention is shown. This embodiment of the present invention is very similar to that previously described such that the storm water system is comprised of a permeable surface structure  102  and a sub-surface storm water vault  2  that are integrated into a commercial parking lot. In this embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of downspouts  138  are employed to capture storm water from above-surface structures, such as a roof  142 . The downspouts  138  facilitate the removal and collection of storm water and are positioned along an above-surface structure and are interconnected to the storm water vault  2  via piping and/or tubing. The downspouts  138  reduce the amount of overhead storm water runoff and increase the amount of reusable water collected. In the embodiment shown, the storm water vault, treatment tank, and storage tank are contained within a single underground housing compartment. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 17 , yet another embodiment of the present invention is shown. More specifically, the storm water system is integrated into a crosswalk  150  or other roadway. The embodiment shown includes a permeable surface  102  structure and sub-surface storm water vault  2 . One skilled in the art will appreciate that the afore-mentioned features can be sized appropriately for positioning below a crosswalk  154  or other roadway in order to accommodate other sub-surface devices such as water, gas, and electrical lines. 
       FIGS. 18-21  show another embodiment of the present invention that employs permeable modules  154  that are generally comprised of a roof panel  158  and associated sidewalls  162 . To permit fluid to enter the module  154 , roof panel  158  and/or the sidewalls  162  include flow ports  166 , i.e., openings or slots. The flowports  166  may be generally conical having a narrow opening  168  at a top surface  170  of the roof panel  158  and a wide opening  172  at a bottom surface  174  of the roof panel  158 . In one embodiment of the present invention, the upper opening  168  is generally elliptical having a major axis of about four inches and a minor axis of about one inch. Further, window openings  178  may be provided in the sidewalls  162  that have a major dimension of about six inches and a minor dimension of about three inches. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, flow ports of various configurations and number may be provided. Further, the flow ports in the roof panel  158  and the sidewalls  162  (if applicable) may be of different configurations. 
     Referring now specifically to  FIGS. 21 and 22 , an assembly of modules  154  is provided. Here, a plurality of modules  154  are placed side-by-side and/or end-to-end wherein the flow ports  166 , which are integrated into the sidewalls  162 , are aligned to allow flow of fluid through the system. As shown, all of the modules  154  include flow ports  166  through their roof panels  158  and sidewalls  162 . In operation of various embodiments, the modules  154  rest on a foundation of #57 stone  182 , which comprises aggregate of about ¾ to 1 inch in diameter. Optionally, the modules rest on a geotextile casing material  186  that also may be used to encase all or a portion of the assembled modules  154 . The casing material may also be positioned above a portion of the assembled modules. The #57 stone  182  is also placed on the sides of the outer boundaries of the assembly. Some embodiments of the present invention incorporate a layer of drainage-enhancing medium, such as Flo-Cell®  190  manufactured by Atlantis, to enhance horizontal water flow into the flow ports  166 , but this is not a necessary feature. On top of the Flo-Cell® (if applicable), a filter fabric  194  is used to help prevent bedding and fine material from falling through the flow ports  166 . Next, a layer of #8 aggregate  198 , which comprises stones of about ¼ to ½ inch diameter, is placed on the filter fabric  194 . Finally, a series of permeable pavers  202  is placed on top of the #8 gravel  198 . In one embodiment of the present invention, the modules rest on about a five-inch thick layer of #57 gravel  182 . Further, at the limits of the modules, the pavers may continue for a certain distance supported by the #8 and #57 stone. In one embodiment of the present invention, the modules are comprised of clamshell style modules that are at least partially wrapped with an impermeable liner at least over bottom and side portions thereof. In various embodiments, one or more permeable pipes  204  are employed to transmit water to a system or a module  154 . Permeable pipes  204  may be provided in combination with, such as positioned below, permeable pavers  202 . For example, fluid may be collected from a walkway  206  comprising permeable pavers  202  which does not comprise modules  154  or vaults directly underneath, and the fluid conveyed to such additional system components by a pipe or submerged conduit that is at least partially permeable. Permeable pipes comprise flow ports  166  as shown and described herein and/or other suitable means for transmitting fluid. Permeable pipes, in various embodiments, direct water to an upper or roof portion of a module  158  or, in alternative embodiments, are directly routed or connected to an inner volume of a module  158 . 
     During use and implementation of embodiments of the present invention, water from rain or other sources flows on an outer surface of the pavers and through spaces between the pavers or apertures therethrough. The water then filters through the aggregate  198  and the filter fabric  194 . The water then comes into contact with the Flo-Cell® material  190  (if applicable), contacts the roof panel  158 , and flows through various flow ports  166  integrated into the roof panel  158  and/or sidewalls  162 . Again, a casing material  186  may be employed such that the water is trapped within the module  154  to be used later. 
       FIGS. 23-26  depict various embodiments of modules  154  comprising flow ports  166  on at least a roof panel  158  of the module  154 . Window openings  178  may be provided with or without window features  180  depending upon whether the window opening  178  is intended to act as a portal or be sealed to fluid flow. Accordingly, window openings  178  are shown as being provided with an without window features  180  in various embodiments. The figures, particularly in this regard, should not be viewed as limiting the present disclosure to any particular arrangement of open or sealed window openings  178 . 
       FIG. 23  is a perspective view of a module  154  according to one embodiment wherein a roof panel  158  and a bottom surface portion  174  of the module comprise a plurality of flow ports  166 . As shown, a module is provided comprising an 11×14 grid of flow ports  166 . It will be expressly understood, however, that modules may be provided with any number, spacing, and/or arrangement of flow ports  166 . For example, an evenly spaced grid of ports  166  may be provided in various densities, such as the 11×14 arrangement shown in  FIG. 23 , an 8×11 arrangement, a 5×12 arrangement, etc. Additionally, and as shown in  FIG. 24 , a grid of flow ports  166  may be provided such that the grid is not evenly spaced. The module  158  of  FIG. 24  provides a non-uniform grid of 11×7 flow ports  166 . As with uniform grids of the present invention, non-uniform grids provided on modules  154  are not limited to any particular number, spacing, or arrangement of ports  166 . The embodiment provided in  FIG. 24  comprises rows of flow ports  166  expanding in linear spacing along the indicated X direction. It will further be recognized that although flow ports  166  are depicted as being generally arranged in even rows, the present disclosure is not limited to the same. Indeed, it is contemplated that a module  154  may comprise a plurality of ports  166  arranged in a wide variety of patterns, including a generally random order. Openings  178  may be provided as window openings or, in various embodiments, as “door” openings wherein the opening extends downwardly to a bottom portion of the module.  FIG. 27  depicts a module comprising both window and door openings employed in a single module. It will be expressly recognized that openings  178  of the present invention are not limited to a particular geometry or dimensions and, furthermore, that modules  154  of the present disclosure are not limited to comprising any particular opening or combination of openings.  FIG. 26 , for example, depicts an embodiment wherein a combination of window and door openings is provided. 
       FIG. 25  is a perspective view of a plurality of modules  154   a ,  154   b ,  154   c  arranged sequentially to provide a plurality of flow port patterns along a length of the combination of modules.  FIG. 26  is a perspective of a plurality of modules as shown in  FIG. 25  placed laterally adjacent to one another. By combining a plurality of modules  154  of the same or different flow port patterns in various directions and orientations, a wide variety of overall flow port  166  patterns as well as a wide variety of water collection goals may be accomplished. 
       FIG. 27  is a perspective view of a module  154  according to one embodiment wherein the module is comprised of upper and lower portions connected about union  207 . In  FIG. 27 , union  207  is provided about a centerline of the constructed module  154 , but need not be so positioned. The assembled module  154  of  FIG. 27  comprises a “clamshell” assembly whereby two module portions of substantially the same size and dimension are stacked or assembled to form the final module  154 . 
       FIG. 28  is a perspective view of one embodiment wherein a plurality of modules  154  is provided, wherein the plurality of modules  154  surrounding a void  207  area. Void area  207  is provided in various embodiments for fluid storage, material storage, provision of access to the system, and/or in order to save materials and labor. Accordingly, in various embodiments, void  207  are in fluid communication with various surrounding modules  154 . Surface treatments and features are provided above at least the void  207 . Surface treatments residing directly above the void may be permeable, such as permeable pavers shown and described herein, or may be non-permeable. Such non-permeable treatments according to various embodiments serve to direct water to permeable locations, such as permeable locations in operative communications with various modules  154 . While the embodiment of  FIG. 28  is depicted as a substantially symmetrical square pattern comprising a centrally located void  207 , the present invention is not so limited. Indeed, it is expressly contemplated that any number and pattern of void features may be provided in combination with various features shown and described herein. Void features  207  provide the ability to customize a system, increase underground storage capacity for various objects, and increase overall system efficiency, for example. Voids  207  may thus be provided in any number of desired sizes and/or configurations. 
     While various embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and alterations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is to be expressly understood that such modifications and alterations are within the scope and spirit of the present invention as set forth in the following claims.