Patent Abstract:
Systems for removing water from an area where water is not desired are discussed and provided. The system can include a dam, a water collection system, and a water removal system. The dam can create a waterproof seal so that the dam is configured to define a reservoir, or retention area, capable of holding water. The water collection system can remove substantially all of the water that collects in the retention area and deposit the water in a reservoir when the water collection system is triggered by a first sensor. The water removal system can move the water collected in the reservoir to an area of safe disposal through a hose or drain when triggered by a second sensor. Other aspects, features, and embodiments of the present invention are claimed and described.

Full Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION AND PRIORITY CLAIM 
     This application claims the benefit, under 35 U.S.C. §119(e), of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/219,498, filed 23 Jun. 2009, the entire contents and substance of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety as if fully set forth below. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to containing and removing accumulated moisture. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention relate to temporary systems for removing water that can be installed quickly. The systems can be operational at least until permanent measures can be put into place, and can be removed with minimal effort. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Foundations and exterior walls of buildings often experience water problems due to a variety of causes. When exterior walls that are below grade are constructed, the surrounding soil must be removed prior to construction. The soil is then replaced after the foundation and walls are complete. As a result, the exterior walls can become damaged as soil settles outside of the foundation. A negative grade sloping toward the exterior walls can also be formed due to such settling. With the negative grade, the force of gravity causes water and soil to move toward the walls, which can create positive hydrostatic pressure. This pressure can cause cracking of, and seepage through, the exterior walls and floor allowing moisture to enter the building. 
     Additional water problems can be caused by water accumulating around and under walls and foundations. This can be caused by, for example, rising ground water during rainy parts of the year. All of these sources are especially prevalent in basements and crawl spaces. When water enters a dwelling, regardless of source, many problems arise, including, among other things, damage to the physical structure of the dwelling and a decrease in indoor air quality. 
     Conventional systems exist to control or direct water seepage thorough the interior walls of a structure. These systems often require extensive time and/or extensive modification of the structure to install. A rainy season, flooding, and other factors can create a backlog for service providers attempting to provide water mitigation services. This can create a situation in which water sits inside the dwelling for extended periods until the service provider can affect the necessary repairs. 
     Standing water inside a dwelling can create health problems related to, for example, mold, mildew, bacteria, viruses, and insects (e.g., mosquitoes). Water inside the structure can also cause structural problems. The problems can include, among other things, wood rot and fastener corrosion. Owners may spend thousands of dollars drying structures to prevent such damage, only to have the structure flooded again before a service provider can affect a permanent repair. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS 
     A system for removing water from areas where water is undesirable is disclosed. The system can be installed quickly, without modification to the installation area. The system can provide a temporary water removal solution until a more permanent solution can be installed in the area. The system can be useful, for example and not limitation, during periods of heavy rain, when service providers may encounter backlogs due to high demand. The system can provide ease of installation and can be removed from a structure without making permanent modifications to the structure. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the system can comprise a dam, in watertight communication with a substrate, for sequestering water in a retention area. In some embodiments, the dam can comprise a substantially rigid material. In this configuration, the dam can further comprise a sealer for forming a substantially watertight seal between the dam and one or more of the substrate and one or more walls. 
     The system can further comprise a water collection system, in fluid connection with the retention area, for removing water from the retention area to a reservoir. A water removal system can be provided for removing the water from the reservoir to a disposal location. In some embodiments, the dam can be in watertight communication with the substrate and one or more walls to form a retention area. 
     In some embodiments, the water collection system can comprise a first conduit in fluid communication with the retention area and the reservoir. The first conduit can provide communication between a vacuum and the reservoir. The first conduit can enable the vacuum to draw water out of the retention area and into the reservoir. The system can be equipped with a sensor for activating and deactivating the vacuum motor based on the water level in the retention area. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the water removal system can comprise a pump for removing water from the reservoir. The pump can be in communication with a disposal area via a second conduit. The system can be equipped with a second sensor for activating and deactivating the pump based on the water level in the reservoir. In some embodiments, the second conduit can be in fluid communication with a drain disposed inside the structure and the drain can be in fluid communication with the disposal location. 
     In some embodiments, the first sensor can activate the vacuum motor when the water level in the retention area reaches a first predetermined level and can deactivate the vacuum motor when the water level in the retention area reaches a second predetermined level. In still other embodiments, the second sensor can activate the pump when the water level in the reservoir reaches a first predetermined level and can deactivate the pump when the water level in the reservoir reaches a second predetermined level. 
     The system can also include additional features. For example, the first conduit can further comprise a first valve to prevent water from draining out of the first conduit and back into the retention area when the vacuum motor is deactivated. Similarly, the second conduit can comprise a second valve to prevent water from draining out of the second conduit and back into the reservoir when the pump is deactivated. The first conduit can further comprise a nozzle comprising a plurality of channels to channel water into the first conduit. Similarly, the second conduit can further comprise a baffle for smoothing the flow of water out of the second end of the second conduit. 
     Embodiments of the present invention can also comprise a method for removing water from unwanted areas. The method can comprise installing a dam to create a retention area. An additional feature of the method can comprise placing a water collection and removal system in fluid communication with the retention area. In some embodiments, the water collection and removal system can be placed in fluid communication with a disposal location. When possible, the disposal location can be an existing drain. The water collection and removal system can be provided with a power source or can have an internal power source. 
     To install the dam and create a retention area, a portion of the bottom and/or the sides of the dam can be covered with sealant. When the desired sealant has been placed on the dam, the dam can be placed in communication with a substrate and/or one or more walls to form a substantially watertight retention area. In some installations, it may be desirable to adjust the height of a first conduit within the retention area such that the first conduit is in close proximity to the substrate. 
     Additional repairs may be necessary if the walls and/or floor of the installation area are cracked or damaged. In some embodiments, the method can further comprise drilling a hole in a crack in one or more of the substrate and one or more walls where the dam will span the crack after installation. After drilling, the hole can be filled with a sealant prior to installing the dam to create a water tight seal between the dam and one or more of the substrate and the one or more walls after installation. 
     The foregoing and other objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the present invention when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  depicts a side view of a water collection and removal system embodiment in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2A  depicts a schematic view of two water collection and removal system embodiments in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2B  depicts another schematic view of two water collection and removal systems embodiments, including a baffle, installed in a structure, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 3  depicts various cross-sectional configurations for a dam for use with the water collection and removal system embodiment, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  depicts a nozzle for use with the water collection and removal system in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  depicts a detailed, side view of the water collection and removal system of  FIG. 1  in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  depicts a perspective view of an embodiment of a dam of a water collection and removal system embodiment in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7  is a flow chart depicting a method of use for the water collection and removal system embodiment in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a temporary waterproofing system. The system can be installed quickly to remove unwanted water. In some embodiments the system can comprise a dam for sequestering, or pooling, water in a retention area. The water can be removed from the retention area, using a vacuum or other suitable means, to a reservoir. The water can then be removed to a drain, or other safe area, using a pump, or other suitable means. The system can maintain a relatively dry environment until a more permanent solution can be installed. 
     To facilitate an understanding of the principles and features of the invention, it is explained with reference to its implementation in an illustrative embodiment. Embodiments of the present invention can be quickly installed in a basement, crawlspace, or other area with water infiltration and provide removal of the water until a permanent waterproofing repair can be put in place. Additionally, because embodiments of the present invention can be installed quickly, in times of high demand, service providers can provide a temporary waterproofing solution to prevent additional structural damage due to backlogs. 
     Embodiments of the invention, however, are not limited to use in basements or crawl spaces. Rather, embodiments of the invention can be used in any location where water accumulation is undesirable. These locations can include, for example and not limitation, parking garages, overpasses, storage areas, and the bilges of ships. 
     The materials described as making up the various elements of the system of the invention are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many suitable materials that would perform the same or a similar function as the materials described herein are intended to be embraced within the scope of the invention. Such other materials not described can include, but are not limited to, materials that are developed after the time of the development of the invention, for example. 
     Referring now to the figures,  FIG. 1  depicts a side view of a water collection and removal system embodiment in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Embodiments of the present invention can comprise a water collection and removal system  100  for removing water from, for example, a structure  105 . The structure  105  can be of a conventional design comprising a footing  115  onto which a wall  110  and a floor  120  are constructed, though other configurations are contemplated. Water seeping into the structure  105  can be caused by, among other things, excessive hydrostatic pressure, wall  110  and/or floor  120  cracks, and flooding. 
     In some embodiments, the system  100  can comprise a water collection system  145 , a water removal system  165 , and a dam  125 . The dam  125  can be used to confine water to a portion  135 , or retention area, of the structure  105 . In other words, the dam  125  can prevent the water from spreading across the surface of the floor  120 . The dam  125  can cause the water to pool in the retention area  135  for removal. 
     In some embodiments, one or more dams  125  can be installed to create a retention area  135 . The dam  125  can be installed in multiple configurations depending on, among other things, room layout and location of water infiltration. The dam  125  can be installed, for example, from one wall  110  to another wall to trap water between the two walls  110  and the floor  120 . This can form a substantially triangular retention area  135 . In other embodiments, the dam  125  can be flexible and can create a substantially semicircular retention area  135  between a single wall  110  and the floor  120 . Alternatively, the dam  125  can be formed into a substantially circular retention area  135  on a particular portion of the floor  120 . 
     The dam  125  can be in watertight communication with the wall  110  and/or the floor  120 . In other words, the dam  125  can be capable of forming a substantially watertight seal between the wall  110  and or the floor  120 . The dam  125  can sequester water between the dam  125  and wall  110  and/or floor  120 . In some embodiments, the dam  125  can comprise a soft, flexible material that enables it to conform to many different shapes and textures. The dam  125  can be self-adhesive, or can be affixed using, for example, an adhesive, sealant, or caulk. The dam  125  is preferably attached using an adhesive that can provide a secure, watertight seal between varieties of surfaces, yet can be easily removed with a minimum of cleanup and/or damage to the underlying substrate. 
     In some embodiments, the dam  125  can comprise a rigid material such as, for example and not limitation, plastic, metal, or wood. The dam  125  can be treated with a waterproofer. The dam  125  can be installed using, for example, a caulk or adhesive suitable to attach the dam  125  to the floor  120  and/or wall  110  and creating a watertight seal therebetween. In some embodiments, it may be desired to provide additional support for the dam  125 . This can be achieved by affixing it to the floor  120  and/or wall  110  using, for example and not limitation, ballistic fasteners, epoxy, or lag bolts. 
     In some embodiments, the dam  125  can be of composite construction. In other words, the dam  125  can comprise two or more layers. One layer of the dam  125  can comprise a rigid material such as, for example and not limitation, plastic, metal, or wood. Another layer of the dam  125  can comprise a pliable material on sealing surfaces, i.e., where it meets the wall  110  and/or floor  120 . This can enable the dam  125  to self-seal so that it can be wedged into place. This can obviate the need for adhesives or caulks and can expedite removal and cleanup. 
     In some embodiments, the water collection system  145  can further comprise a first conduit  140 . The first conduit  140  can be in fluid communication with the retention area  135  and the collection system  145 . The first conduit  140  can be, for example and not limitation, a length of rubber or plastic hose (e.g., garden hose). In some embodiments, the first conduit  140  can comprise, for example and not limitation, a plastic vacuum hose or a rigid PVC pipe. 
     In some embodiments, the end  142  of the first conduit  140  can comprise a nozzle  142 . In some embodiments, the nozzle  142  can have multiple holes to enable the collection system  145  to remove water through 360 degrees around the first conduit  140 . The nozzle  142  can further comprise, for example and not limitation, a screen or filter to prevent debris from clogging the first conduit  140 . 
     The collection system  145  can further comprise a sensor  155  located at or near the end  142  of the conduit. The sensor  155  can detect the presence of water and can provide a signal to activate the collection system  145 . The sensor  155  can be, for example and not limitation, a float switch, a resistance-based switch, or an optical switch (e.g., an infrared laser). The sensor  155  can be set to trip, or close, when the height of the water in the retention area  135  reaches a specific height (the “removal height”). In some embodiments, this can be achieved by mounting the sensor  155  at the desired height on the first conduit  140 . In other embodiments, the sensor  155  can have an integral means for setting the removal height (e.g., an adjustable float). 
     When the sensor  155  detects that the water level has reached the removal height, the sensor  155  activates the collection system  145 . In some embodiments, the sensor  155  can simply complete the circuit between the collection system  145  and power or ground to activate a motor in the collection system  145 . In other embodiments, the sensor  155  can be connected to, for example, a relay, controller, or microprocessor capable of activating the collection system  145 . 
     In some embodiments, the sensor  155  can also detect when the water level has dropped to a suitable level and can deactivate the collection system  145 . So, for example, the sensor  155  can be a float switch and can activate the collection system  145  when the float rises to a first predetermined height. The sensor  155  can then deactivate the collection system  145  when the float drops to a second predetermined height. Deactivation can be accomplished, for example and not limitation, by opening the ground or power circuit to the collection system  145 . In other embodiments, the collection system  145  can be controlled by a timer and can simply run for a predetermined time. 
     The collection system  145  can be a vacuum or a pump capable of removing the water from the retention area  135  and collecting it in a reservoir  130 . It is preferable for the collection system  145  to remove as much water as possible from the retention area  135 . This minimizes the amount of standing water in the structure  105 . In an exemplary embodiment, the collection system  145  can be a vacuum and the reservoir  130  can be the canister of the vacuum. 
     The system  100  can further comprise a water removal system  165 . The water removal system  165  can be in fluid communication with the reservoir  130  of the collection system  145 . In some embodiments, the water removal system  165  can be inside the reservoir  130 . The water removal system  165  can comprise, for example, a pump  162  and a sensor  160 . In some embodiments, the pump  162  can comprise, for example and not limitation, a centrifugal or reciprocating pump. In a preferred embodiment, the design of the pump  162  can enable the pump to operate when dry without damage. In other words, the pump  162  does not “burn-out” if run without fluid. 
     The water removal system  165  can further comprise a sensor  160  located at or near the pump  162 . The sensor  160  can detect the presence of water and can provide a signal to activate the pump  162 . The sensor  160  can be, for example and not limitation, a float switch, a resistance-based switch, or an optical switch (e.g., and infrared laser). The sensor  160  can be set to trip, or close, when the height of the water in the reservoir  130  reaches a specific height. This can be achieved by mounting the sensor  160  at the desired height on the pump  162 . In some embodiments, the sensor  160  can have an integral means for setting the height (e.g., an adjustable float). 
     When the sensor  160  detects that the water level has reached a certain height, the sensor  160  can activate the pump  162 . In some embodiments, the sensor  160  can simply complete the circuit between the pump  162  and power or ground. In other embodiments, the sensor  160  can be connected to, for example, a relay, controller, or microprocessor capable of activating the pump  162 . 
     In an exemplary embodiment, the pump  162  can be a sump pump and the sensor  160  can be a float switch. When the water inside the reservoir  130  reaches the set height, the pump  162  activates and substantially empties the reservoir  130 . In some embodiments, the pump  162  can be connected to a second conduit  150 . The second conduit  150  can be, for example and not limitation, PVC pipe, garden hose, or clear plastic tubing. The second conduit  150  can be connected to, among other things, a drain or sink inside the structure  105 . In some embodiments, the second conduit can simply exit the structure  105 . 
     In some embodiments, the structure  105  may not be equipped with a drain or the drain may not be accessible. If the portion of the structure with water infiltration is located below ground, it can also be difficult or impossible to remove the water from the structure via a second conduit  150 . In this situation, therefore, it can be necessary for the reservoir  130  to be larger. In other words, when no convenient route exists for water removal, it can be necessary to increase the size of the reservoir  130 . This minimizes the number of times the reservoir  130  must be emptied in a given period. In some embodiments, therefore, the system  100  can simply collect the water in the reservoir  130  to be emptied periodically. 
       FIG. 2A  depicts a schematic view of two water collection and removal systems in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, based on the volume of water that must be removed, it can be desirable to install two water collection and removal systems  230 ,  235 . If water is infiltrating all four walls  205 ,  210 ,  215 ,  220  of a room, for example, it can be necessary to install a dam  240  around the perimeter of the room  200 . This can substantially create a moat, or retention area  222 , around the room  200 . The moat can collect water and prevent water from covering substantially the entire floor  202 . In this way, a majority of the room  200  can be kept dry. This can prevent, for example, damage to items stored in the room  200  or the flooring installed over the floor surface  202 . 
     The systems  230 ,  235  can be in fluid communication with the retention area  222  via conduits  245 ,  250 . The systems  230 ,  235  can remove water from the retention area  222  when the water level reaches the removal height, e.g., one-quarter of an inch. In this way, the retention area  222  can be kept substantially dry. This can substantially reduce problems arising from the presence of standing water. 
     Each of the systems  230 ,  235  can be in fluid communication with a tube  255   a ,  255   b . The tube  255   a ,  255   b  can be in fluid communication with, for example, a drain  254 . In some embodiments, the systems  230 ,  235  can be connected to a hose  254 , or other means, that simply exits the building to a suitable location. In some embodiments, the systems  230 ,  235  may have separate drains (not shown). 
     Many configurations of the present invention can be employed based on the needs presented by a particular situation.  FIG. 2B  depicts another schematic view of two water collection and removal systems embodiments. The system  100  can be deployed in a room  204  in which water infiltration affects substantially all of one wall  260 , but only a corner of another wall  266 . Multiple dams  255 ,  265  can be used to create multiple retention areas  257 ,  267 , as needed. 
     In this embodiment, a dam  255  can be placed along substantially the entire first wall  260  and continue partially along the adjoining walls  262 ,  264 . The dam  255 , therefore, can be sealed along the surface of the floor  206  and can be sealed against the walls  262 ,  264  to contain water in a retention area  257 . When the water level reaches the removal level, e.g., one-quarter of an inch, the system  270  can remove the water. When the water level inside the system  270 , i.e., in the reservoir  130 , reaches a set height, the water can then be pumped out to a suitable location  285  for removal, e.g. a drain. The drain  285  can be, for example and not limitation, a tub drain, a sink, a floor drain, or a washing machine drain. If no drain is available, the system can simply use a hose or conduit that exits the building. 
     A second system  275  can service a second retention area  267  formed by the dam  265  in the corner of the room  204 . In some embodiments, the second system  275  can share a common drain  285  with the first system  270 . In some embodiments, the second system  275  can have a separate drain  285  from the first system  270 . More or less systems  270 ,  275  can be employed, as necessary, to meet the water removal demands in a given room  204 . 
     In some embodiments, a baffle  280  can be employed. The baffle  280  can be disposed on the end of the first conduit  140 . The baffle  280  can prevent large debris from being sucked into and clogging the first conduit  140 . The baffle  280  can also be disposed on the end of the second conduit  150 . In this configuration, the baffle  280  can slow and smooth water flow exiting the second conduit  150  into the drain  285 . This can prevent, for example, exceeding the removal capacity of the drain  285 . The baffle  280  can also prevent splashing and water damage to areas surrounding the drain  285 . 
       FIG. 3  depicts various cross-sectional configurations for a dam for use with the water collection and removal system embodiment, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. The dam  125  can be many shapes and materials and can provide a water tight seal at the floor  120  and/or wall  110 . In some embodiments, the dam  305  can be substantially L-shaped. In this configuration, the dam  305  can be attached to the floor  120  using, for example and not limitation, a nail  307 , screw, or adhesive. The dam  305  can then be made watertight by placing a bead of caulk or adhesive  309  at the base of the dam  305 . In some embodiments, the caulk or adhesive  309  can be disposed between the dam  305  and the floor  120  and/or wall  110 . The use of caulk or adhesive  309  can obviate or mitigate the need for additional fasteners  307 . 
     In some embodiments, the dam  310  can comprise a firm but flexible material. The dam  310  can form a half pipe shape with a pliable bulb  312  attached on one side. The bulb  312  can comprise a material suitable for creating a water tight seal with the floor  120  and/or wall  110  such as, for example and not limitation, rubber or silicone. In some embodiments, the dam  310  can be placed against the floor  120  in tension and fastened to the floor with a suitable fastener  314 . The tension can force the pliable bulb  312  against the floor  120  creating a water tight seal. The fastener  314  can be, for example and not limitation, a nail or screw suitable for fastening the dam  310  to the floor  120 . 
     In some embodiments, the dam  315  can comprise a solid, but pliable material suitable for creating a watertight seal with the floor  120 . The dam  315  can comprise, for example, a block of soft, jelly-like rubber. In some embodiments, the dam  315  can comprise a material that can be cut to length. This can enable the dam  315  to be wedged between, for example, two walls  110 . The dam  315  can also be affixed to the floor  120  and/or wall  110  using a suitable adhesive or caulk. In some embodiments, the dam  315  can also be affixed to the floor  120  and/or walls  110  using a suitable fastener (e.g., nail, screw, bolt, etc.). 
       FIG. 4  depicts a nozzle for use with the water collection and removal system  100  in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. The nozzle  400  can comprise a plurality of slots  410 . The nozzle  400  can increase the surface area of the first conduit  140 , which can increase the efficiency of water removal and prevent clogging of the first conduit  140 . In some embodiments, the conduit can further comprise a screen or filter (not shown) to prevent clogging of the first conduit  140 . 
     In some embodiments, the nozzle  400  can further comprise a valve  415 . In some embodiments, the valve  415  can be a simple on/off valve such as, for example, a ball valve. This type of valve can be useful when installing or removing the system  100  to prevent water dripping from the first conduit  140 . In some embodiments, the valve  415  can comprise a one-way, or backflow, valve. This can prevent water that has been sucked into the first conduit  140  draining back into the retention area  135  when the water collection system  145  is deactivated. The valve  415  can minimize the amount of standing water in the retention area  135 . 
     The nozzle  400  can further comprise a fixed or adjustable sensor  155 . In some embodiments, the sensor  155  can be mounted on the inside of the nozzle  400  to protect it from damage. As described above, the sensor  155  can detect the level of the water in the retention area  135  and activate the water collection system  145 . In some embodiments, the sensor  155  can also deactivate the water collection system  145  when the water level drops sufficiently. In some embodiments, the sensor  155  can be disposed on the outside of the nozzle  400 . In some embodiments, the mounting height of the nozzle  400  can determine when the water collection system  145  is activated and/or deactivated. 
       FIG. 5  depicts a detailed, side view of the water collection and removal system of  FIG. 1  in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. The system  100  can comprise a water collection system  145  and a water removal system  165 . The water collection system  145  can comprise a first conduit  140  in fluid communication with a retention area  135 . The retention area  135  can be created between the dam  305 , the floor  120 , and the wall  110 . In some embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 5 , the dam  305  can be substantially L-shaped. This can enable the dam  305  to be attached to the floor using a suitable fastener  307 . A watertight seal can be formed between the base of the dam  305 , for example, a bead of caulk or adhesive  309 . 
     The first conduit  140  can further comprise a sensor  155 . The sensor can detect the water level in the retention area  135 . The water collection system  145  can further comprise a vacuum motor  505  and a reservoir  130 . In some embodiments, the first conduit  140  can be supported using a brace  515  to retain the first conduit  140  in the reservoir  130 . The brace  515  can prevent, for example, vibration, flexing, and cracking of the first conduit  140 . In some embodiments, the brace  515  can enable the height of the first conduit  140  to be adjusted. The height of the first conduit  140  can be adjusted to account for, among other things, varying water levels or uneven floors  120 . 
     When the water level in the retention area  135  reaches the level set by the sensor  155 , the sensor  155  can activate the vacuum motor  505  on the water collection system  145 . In some embodiments, the sensor  155  can be connected to a controller  510 . The controller  510  can be for example a relay, which can enable a small switching current from the sensor to activate a large current for the vacuum motor  505 . In other embodiments, the sensor  155  can be a float switch, or similar, that completes the power or ground circuit for the vacuum motor  505 . 
     When the vacuum motor  505  is activated, water is drawn up the first conduit  140  into the reservoir  130 . In some embodiments, the vacuum motor can run for a pre-determined amount of time (e.g., based on the size of the retention area  135 ). In other embodiments, the sensor  155  can provide a signal, or interrupt power to the motor  505 , when the water drops to a certain level. 
     In some embodiments, the first conduit  140  can further comprise a valve  415 . In some embodiments, the valve  415  can be a simple on/off valve such as, for example, a ball valve. This type of valve can be useful when installing or removing the system  100  to prevent water dripping from the first conduit  140 . In some embodiments, the valve  415  can comprise a one-way, or backflow, valve. This can prevent water that has been sucked into the first conduit  140  from draining back into the retention area  135  when the water collection system  145  cycles off. The water collection system  145 , therefore, removes the water from the retention area  135  to the enclosed reservoir  130 . This minimizes the volume of standing water in the retention area  135 . 
     The system  100  can further comprise a water removal system  165 . The water removal system  165  can comprise a pump  525  in fluid communication with a second conduit  150 . The water removal system  165  can further comprise a sensor  160 . The sensor  160  can detect the water level in the reservoir  130 . In some embodiments, pictured, the sensor  160  can be a float switch that activates and deactivates the pump  525 . When the water level in the reservoir  130  reaches a first predetermined height in the reservoir  130 , the switch can activate the pump  525 . Similarly, when the water level in the reservoir reaches a second predetermined height, the switch can deactivate the pump  525 . 
     The pump  525  can be in fluid communication with the second conduit  150  via a pipe  535 . In some embodiments, the pipe  535  can be inside the reservoir  130 . In some embodiments, the pipe  535  can be, for example and not limitation, PVC pipe, clear plastic tubing, or garden hose. The pipe  535  can be connected to a fitting  537  on the reservoir  130 . The fitting  537  can enable the second conduit  150  to be detachably coupled to the pipe  535 . In some embodiments, the fitting  537  can be a hose fitting (e.g., a garden hose fitting) and the second conduit  150  can be a hose (e.g., a garden hose). The second conduit  150  can be in fluid communication with a suitable means for removing the water from the structure  105 . The second conduit  150  can be in fluid communication with, for example, a drain or the outside of the structure  105 . 
     In some embodiments, the pipe  535  can further comprise a valve  530 . In some embodiments, the valve  530  can comprise a one-way or backflow valve. This can prevent water that has been pumped into the pipe  535  from draining back into the reservoir  130  when the pump  525  is deactivated. 
     Based on size and electrical current requirements, it may be desirable for the vacuum motor  505  and pump  525  to be powered on separate circuits. The current requirements of the vacuum motor  505  and pump  525  may be higher than can be safely accommodated on a single residential circuit breaker. It may be desirable for the vacuum motor  505  and pump  525  to have separate power cords  540 A,  540 B so that they can be connected to outlets  550 A,  550 B on separate circuits. In some embodiments, the vacuum motor  505  and pump  525  can have lower power requirements and can be accommodated on a single circuit breaker. In some embodiments, the vacuum motor  505  and pump  525  can use a single power cord (not shown). In some embodiments, the system  100  can have an independent power source, such as, for example and not limitation, a battery pack or solar array. 
       FIG. 6  depicts a perspective view of an embodiment of a dam of a water collection and removal system embodiment in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Water infiltration into structures can be caused, at least in part, by cracks  605 , or breaks, in foundation walls  110  or floors  120 . The crack  605  can enable positive hydrostatic pressure behind the wall  110  or beneath the floor  120  to drive water into the structure  600 . Creating a watertight seal across and through the crack  605  can be difficult because the crack  605  can cause an uneven surface, or void, where the dam  305  meets the floor  120  or wall  110 . This can cause the water to follow the crack  605  under the dam. 
     To prevent leakage across and through the crack  605  it may be necessary to drill a hole  610  in the floor  120  and/or wall  110  in the vicinity of the crack. It is preferable that the crack  605  generally bisects the hole  610 , if possible. Caulk, adhesive, or another suitable sealer  615  can then be pumped into the hole  610  until the hole  610  is slightly overfilled. The sealer  615  can provide a pliable surface across which the dam  305  can form a watertight seal. This can prevent water from leaking under the dam  305  via the crack  605 . While illustrated using a crack in the floor  120 , this method can also be employed effectively on the wall  110  by drilling a horizontal hole (not shown). 
       FIG. 7  is a flow chart depicting a method of use for the water collection and removal system embodiment in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, the method can be implemented using the above-discussed embodiments. 
     In some embodiments, at  710 , it may be necessary determine if there are existing cracks in the floor or walls that must be repaired prior to installation of the dam. In some embodiments, at  712 , it may be necessary to fill any cracks in the floor with a sealant. Filling the cracks  712  can enable the dam to form a watertight seal over and through the cracks. In some embodiments, such as with a particularly deep or wide crack, it may be necessary to first drill a hole in the crack. The hole can then be filled with a suitable sealant such as for example and not limitation, latex or silicone caulk, hydraulic cement, or polyurethane. This can enable the dam to form a watertight seal over the crack. 
     Next, at  715 , one or more dams can be installed to create retention areas. The retention areas can be installed in the vicinity of the infiltration points for the water. In the case of a single leaking corner, for example, this can be as simple as placing a dam across the corner from wall to wall to create a triangular retention area. On the other hand, in a flood, it may be necessary to create a moat-like retention area all the way around the room. See, e.g.,  FIG. 2A . 
     After the retention area(s) have been established, at  720 , one or more water collection and removal systems can be placed proximate to the retention areas. In some applications, it may be necessary to adjust the height of the first conduit based on the height of the retention area. This can allow for variations in the floor, for example. In some embodiments, it may be necessary or desirable to adjust the height of the sensor. In some embodiments, the height of the sensor can be set based on the height of the first conduit. 
     Next, at  725 , the second conduit can be connected to the system to place the system. The second conduit can be in fluid communication with a suitable egress point for the water. In some configurations, an egress point can be an existing floor or tub drain. In other configurations, the second conduit can be run outside through a window, or other opening. In some installations, the second conduit can be run to, for example, an exterior storm drain. 
     At  730 , the system can be connected to one or more power sources. In other words, in some installations, the pump and vacuum motor of the system can be plugged into outlets on separate circuits. In some embodiments, however, this can be unnecessary, e.g., if the circuit breaker in the structure has sufficient load capacity. If sufficient capacity exists, the pump and the vacuum motor can be plugged into the same outlet. In some embodiments, the pump and vacuum motor can have a common power cord. In still other embodiments, the system can have an on-board power supply such as, for example and not limitation, a battery pack obviating this step. 
     Upon installation, the system  100  can be configured to be substantially self-sufficient provided power is not interrupted. It can be desirable from time to time to check the system  100  and remove, for example, any accumulated debris from the vicinity of the first conduit  140  and to check the operation of the various components, e.g., the sensors  155 ,  160 . The system  100  can be advantageous in times of high demand, when installers are suffering backlogs, for instance, and the system  100  can provide a means for keeping a structure with ongoing water infiltration substantially dry. The system  100  can be quickly deployed until a more permanent waterproofing solution can be installed 
     It can be seen that embodiments of the present invention provide a system  100  and method  700  for providing a means for effectively removing water. In some embodiments, the present invention is a system  100  capable of containing and removing water from a structure. The water can then be removed to a drain inside the structure or a suitable location outside the structure. In some embodiments, the system  100  can comprise a dam  125 , a water collection system  145 , and a water removal system  165 . In some embodiments, the dam  125  can sequester and collect water in a water retention area  135 . This can facilitate water removal into the reservoir  130  of the system  100 . When the reservoir  130  is sufficiently full, the water removal system  165  can remove accumulated water from the structure  105 . The water can be removed via a drain, or other suitable means. 
     It can also be seen that embodiments of the invention provide a number of different systems  100  and methods  700 . These systems  100  and methods  700  can be used to remove water from a structure  105  until permanent repairs can be affected. The system  100  can be easily adjusted to conform to a variety of structures  105  and water infiltration scenarios. Installed, embodiments of the present invention provide a safe, convenient, temporary solution to this ubiquitous problem. The various embodiments of the invention described above provide methods of using the system  100  and method  700  when compared with prior approaches. 
     It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, however, that the invention can be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of the invention. For example, embodiments of the invention have been described with respect to a method  700 ; however, the method  700  could be performed using a different sequence of steps, or omitting certain steps, without deviating from the spirit of the invention. For example, if upon inspection  710 , no cracks are found in the floor  120  or walls  110 , it can be unnecessary to drill and fill cracks  712  prior to installation of the dam(s)  715 . 
     In addition, while the invention has been described in the context of system  100  for removing water from a structure  105 , the concepts described herein need not be limited to these illustrative embodiments. For example, embodiments of the present invention could be used in many situations in which a user wishes to remove undesirable water from a variety of structures, such as, for example, a boat, recreational vehicle, underpass, or parking garage. 
     The specific configurations, choice of materials, and the size and shape of various elements could be varied according to particular design specifications or constraints requiring a device, system, or method constructed according to the principles of the invention. Such changes are intended to be embraced within the scope of the invention. The presently disclosed embodiments, therefore, are considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims, rather than the foregoing description, and all changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalents thereof are intended to be embraced therein.

Technology Classification (CPC): 8