| |
| United States Patent
|
7,231,968 |
| Owens |
June 19, 2007 |
Well cap systems
Abstract
A system for capping the upper opening of a well having an
accommodation for a remotely-located control device. More
specifically, a well cap system for a water-well having a pipe
casing that permits one or more well control apparatus to be located
within the well cap. The system is a two-part assembly, comprising a
base and hollow cover, both arranged to be supported by the pipe
casing. Further, a constant pressure well system utilizing the
water-well cap system.
| Inventors: |
Owens; Eric (Chino
Valley, AZ) |
| Appl. No.:
|
10/784,087 |
| Filed: |
February 19, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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60450784 |
Feb., 2003 |
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| Current U.S.
Class: |
166/75.13
; 166/92.1; 166/93.1 |
| Current
International Class: |
E21B
33/04 (20060101) |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent
Documents
Primary Examiner: Bates; Zakiya W.
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
Stone Volk Patent Group Stoneman; Martin L.
Parent Case Text
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
The present application claims the benefit of and is related to
prior provisional application Ser. No. 60/450,784, filed Feb. 28,
2003, entitled "WELL CAP SYSTEM", the cootents of which are
incorporated herein by this reference and are not admitted to be
prior art with respect to the present inve-ution by the mention in
this cross-reference section.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A system for capping at least one well pipe having at least one
upper opening and at least one interior portion containing at least
one controllable apparatus, the at least one controllable apparatus
controlled by at least one local controller device, said system
comprising: a) at least one well cap to cap the at least one well
pipe; b) wherein said at least one well cap comprises i) at least
one closure adapted to substantially close the at least one upper
opening, ii) at least one protective cover adapted to protectively
cover the at least one local controller device, and iii) at least
one support to support the at least one local controller device
within said at least one protective cover; c) wherein said at least
one closure comprises at least one mount adapted to mount said at
least one closure to the at least one well pipe; d) wherein said at
least one mount comprises at least one size-adapter to adapt said at
least one closure to at least two such well pipes having different
sizes; and e) wherein said at least one size-adapter comprises at
least one first one and at least one second one of said at least one
mounts, said at least one first one being adapted to fit at least
one such well pipe having a first size, and said at least one second
one being adapted to fit at least one such well pipe having a second
size different from said first size.
2. The system according to claim 1 wherein said at least one
size-adapter is adapted to fit said at least one closure to such at
least one well pipe having a nominal diameter of five-inches.
3. The system according to claim 1 wherein said at least one
size-adapter is adapted to fit said at least one closure to such at
least one well pipe having a nominal diameter of six-inches.
4. The system according to claim 1 wherein said at least one
size-adapter is adapted to fit said at least one closure to such at
least one well pipe having an outer diameter of about seven inches.
5. The system according to claim 1 wherein said at least one
size-adapter is adapted to fit said at least one closure to such at
least one well pipe having a nominal diameter of eight-inches.
6. The system according to claim 1 wherein: a) said at least one
closure further comprises an essentially planar member having at
least one first face, at least one second face, and a peripheral
edge; b) said at least one mount comprises at least one collar
projecting outwardly from said at least one second face; and c) said
at least one collar is adapted to engage at least one portion of the
at least one well pipe.
7. The system according to claim 6 wherein said at least one closure
comprises a nested arrangement of at least two of said at least one
collars.
8. The system according to claim 6 wherein said at least one
protective cover comprises: a) at least one peripheral wall; b)
wherein said at least one peripheral wall defines at least one
hollow cavity adapted to contain the at least one local controller
device; and c) wherein said at least one peripheral wall comprises
at least one access opening, having at least one inner peripheral
edge, to permit access to said at least one hollow cavity.
9. The system according to claim 8 wherein said at least one well
cap further comprises at least one electrical passage structured and
arranged to assist passing of at least one electrical conductor from
within said at least one hollow cavity to at least one point
external to said at least one hollow cavity.
10. The system according to claim 9 wherein said at least one
electrical passage comprises at least one threaded aperture.
11. The system according to claim 8 further comprising: a) at least
one first interlocker; and b) at least one second interlocker; c)
wherein said at least one second interlocker is adapted to interlock
with said at least one first interlocker; d) wherein said at least
one first interlocker comprises said at least one closure; e)
wherein said at least one second interlocker comprises said at least
one protective cover; and f) wherein interlocking of said at least
one first interlocker and said at least one second interlocker
provides a removable retention to removably retain said at least one
protective cover to said at least one closure.
12. The system according to claim 11 wherein: a) said at least one
protective cover further comprises at least one first aperture
adapted to pass at least one portion of at least one padlock
shackle; b) said at least one closure further comprises at least one
second aperture to pass the at least one portion of the at least one
padlock shackle; and c) such removable retention of said at least
one protective cover adjacent said at least one closure by such
interlocking permits at least one position of alignment between said
at least one first aperture and said at least one second aperture to
permit passage of the at least one portion of the at least one
padlock shackle through both said at least one first aperture and
said at least one second aperture.
13. The system according to claim 11 wherein said at least one
peripheral wall comprises at least one data transfer port to permit
at least one transfer of data between the at least one local
controlling device within said at least one hollow cavity and at
least one data transfer device external to said at least one well
cap.
14. The system according to claim 12 wherein: a) said at least one
data transfer port comprises said at least one peripheral wall; b)
said at least one transparent portion is structured and arranged to
provide at least one signal view of at least one portion of the at
least one local controller device even when said at least one
protective cover is removably retained on said at least one closure.
15. The system according to claim 11 wherein: a) said at least one
first interlocker comprises at least one peripheral notch formed
within said at least one peripheral edge of said at least one
closure; b) said at least one second interlocker comprises at least
one tab projecting from said at least one inner peripheral edge of
said at least one protective cover; c) said at least one peripheral
notch is adapted to permit said at least one tab to pass through
said at least one closure from a position adjacent said at least one
first face to a position adjacent said at least one second face; and
d) at least one rotation of said at least one protective cover
relative to said at least one closure, while said at least one tab
is in the position adjacent said at least one second face, removably
retains said at least one protective cover on said at least one base
member.
16. A system for capping at least one well pipe having at least one
upper opening and at least one interior portion containing at least
one controllable apparatus, the at least one controllable apparatus
controlled by at least one local controller device, said system
comprising: a) at least one well cap to cap the at least one well
pipe; b) wherein said at least one well cap comprises i) at least
one closure adapted to substantially close the at least one upper
opening, ii) at least one protective cover adapted to protectively
cover the at least one local controller device, and iii) at least
one supported to support the at least one local controller device
within said at least one protective cover, c) wherein said at least
one well cap further comprises at least one vent to provide
atmosphere venting between the at least one interior portion of the
at least one well pipe and at least one environment exterior to the
at least one interior portion of the at least one well pipe; d)
wherein said at least one vent comprises at least one channel to
channel vented atmosphere from the at least one interior portion;
and e) wherein said at least one channel comprises at least one
isolator structured and arranged to isolate the atmospheric venting
from the at least one local controller device.
17. A system for capping at least one well pipe having at least one
upper opening and at least one interior portion containing at least
one controllable apparatus, the at least one controllable apparatus
controlled by at least one local controller device, said system
comprising: a) at least one well cap to cap the at least one well
pipe; b) wherein said at least one well cap comprises i) at least
one closure adapted to substantially close the at least one upper
opening, ii) at least one protective cover adapted to protectively
cover the at least one local controller device, and iii) at least
one support to support the at least one local controller device
within said at least one protective cover; c) wherein said at least
one well cap substantially comprises at least one thermoplastic
material.
18. A system, for supplying a flow of water from at least one well
having at least one well pipe, at least one upper well pipe opening
and at least one pipe interior to at least one structure having a
pressurized water supply, said system comprising, in combination: a)
at least one pump to pump water from the at least one pipe interior;
b) at least one local controller to control said at least one pump;
and c) at least one well cap, comprising at least one internal
hollow, to cap the at least one upper well pipe opening; d) wherein
said at least one local controller is located essentially within
said at least one internal hollow of said at least one well cap.
19. The system according to claim 18 wherein said at least one local
controller comprises at least one local pressure sensor adapted to
monitor the pressure of the flow of water delivered from said at
least one pump.
20. The system according to claim 19 further comprising such at
least one well having at least one well pipe.
21. The system according to claim 20 wherein said at least one local
pressure sensor is located within said at least one well pipe of
said at least one well.
22. The system according to claim 21 further comprising at least one
water transferor to transfer the flow of water from said at least
one well to the at least one structure having at least one
pressurized water supply.
23. The system according to claim 22 further comprising such at
least one structure having at least one pressurized water supply.
24. The system according to claim 20 wherein said at least one well
and said at least one local controller are structured and arranged
to permit maintenance of said system without entry into the at least
one structure.
25. The system according to claim 20 wherein said at least one local
controller comprises the sole controller of said at least one pump
within said system.
Description
BACKGROUND
This invention relates to well cap systems. More particularly, it
relates to a system for capping at least one well pipe having at
least one upper opening and at least one interior portion containing
at least one controllable apparatus.
Often, building structures are supplied with water generated from a
local groundwater well, most often where municipal or commercial
water supplies are unavailable or prohibitive in cost to access.
Typically, a water well consists of an essentially vertical hole or
shaft, drilled into the earth to access a subterranean groundwater
supply. This shaft (also known as a "well bore" or "borehole") may
extend several hundred feet before reaching a water-bearing
formation. Generally, at least the upper portion of the drilled hole
is lined with a well casing consisting of a rigid pipe. The upper
open end of the well casing is typically terminated above the ground
and is used to access the interior of the well, for example, to
place or service an in-well pump.
In current "constant pressure" water-well systems, a submersible
pump located at the bottom of the well delivers pressurized water to
a remotely-located structure through a water line extending between
the well and the structure. Typically, a pump controller, located at
the structure, monitors water pressure within the water-well system
and regulates pump output to maintain desired water pressures under
various conditions of water demand. Thus, the controller needs to be
accessed/maintained at a different location than the pump or other
equipment at the well site.
Usually, the pump controller and related apparatus are remotely
located within a portion of a building some distance from the well.
Power and control wiring must necessarily extend the distance
between the controller within the building and the pump. Further,
installation, monitoring, and service of completed well systems
require that the building be at an appropriate point of construction
and accessible to the well system installer. During installation,
the well system installer must closely coordinate the well
installation work with the operation and/or construction of a
building or other closable structure access to which typically
requires permissions and/or appointments. Thus, continued monitoring
and maintenance of the system requires further coordination with the
building owner or operator to gain access to the remotely located
controller equipment.
Therefore, a need exists for an improved well system which overcomes
the prior problems and which permits installation, operation, and
monitoring of a well system without the burdensome issues of
coordination that currently exist.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
A primary object and feature of the present invention is to overcome
the above-mentioned problems and fulfill the above-mentioned needs.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide a well cap system that reduces the need to utilize and
access a remote structure during well installation, monitoring, and
maintenance operations.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system that reduces the time and materials required
to install a well system by locating a portion of the well controls
at the well-site.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system that protectively encloses the top of the well
casing and the local well control system.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system that provides a single well cap adaptable to a
range of well casing sizes.
It is an additional primary object and feature of the present
invention to provide such a system that is efficient, inexpensive
and handy. Other objects and features of this invention will become
apparent with reference to the following descriptions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention
provides a system for capping at least one well pipe having at least
one upper opening and at least one interior portion containing at
least one controllable apparatus, the at least one controllable
apparatus controlled by at least one local controller device, such
system comprising: well capping means for capping the at least one
well pipe; wherein such well capping means comprises, closure means
for substantially closing the at least one upper opening, protective
cover means for protectively covering the at least one local
controller, and support means for supporting the at least one local
control system within such protective cover means.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a system for capping at least one well pipe
having at least one upper opening and at least one interior portion
containing at least one controllable apparatus, the at least one
controllable apparatus controlled by at least one local controller
device, such system comprising: at least one well cap to cap the at
least one well pipe; wherein such at least one well cap comprises at
least one closure adapted to substantially close the at least one
upper opening, at least one protective cover adapted to protectively
cover the at least one local controller device, and at least one
support to support the at least one local controller device within
such at least one protective cover. Moreover, it provides such a
system wherein such at least one well cap is substantially supported
by the at least one well pipe. Additionally, it provides such a
system wherein such at least one closure comprises at least one
mount adapted to mount such at least one closure to the at least one
well pipe. Also, it provides such a system wherein: such at least
one mount comprises at least one size-adapter to adapt such at least
one closure to at least two such well pipes having different sizes;
and such at least one size-adapter comprises at least one first one
and at least one second one of such at least one mounts, such at
least one first one being adapted to fit at least one such well pipe
having a first size, and such at least one second one being adapted
to fit at least one such well pipe having a second size different
from such first size. In addition, it provides such a system wherein
such at least one size-adapter adapts such at least one closure to
such at least one well pipe having a nominal diameter of
five-inches. And, it provides such a system wherein such at least
one size-adapter adapts such at least one closure to such at least
one well pipe having a nominal diameter of six-inches. Further, it
provides such a system wherein such at least one size-adapter adapts
such at least one closure to such at least one well pipe having an
outer diameter of about seven inches. Even further, it provides such
a system wherein such at least one size-adapter adapts such at least
one closure to such at least one well pipe having a nominal diameter
of eight-inches.
Moreover, it provides such a system wherein: such at least one
closure further comprises an essentially planar member having at
least one first face, at least one second face, and a peripheral
edge; such at least one mount comprises at least one collar
projecting outwardly from such at least one second face; and such at
least one collar is adapted to engage at least one portion of the at
least one well pipe. Additionally, it provides such a system wherein
such at least one closure comprises a nested arrangement of at least
two of such at least one collars. Also, it provides such a system
wherein such at least one protective cover comprises: at least one
peripheral wall; wherein such at least one peripheral wall defines
at least one hollow cavity adapted to contain the at least one local
controller device; and wherein such at least one peripheral wall
comprises at least one access opening, having at least one inner
peripheral edge, to permit access to such at least one hollow
cavity. In addition, it provides such a system wherein such at least
one well cap further comprises at least one electrical passage
structured and arranged to pass at least one electrical conductor
from within such at least one hollow cavity to at least one point
external to such at least one hollow cavity. And, it provides such a
system wherein such at least one electrical passage comprises at
least one threaded aperture. Further, it provides such a system
wherein such at least one well cap further comprises: at least one
vent to provide atmospheric venting between the at least one
interior portion of the at least one well pipe, and at least one
environment exterior to the at least one interior portion of the at
least one well pipe; wherein such at least one vent comprises at
least one channel to channel vented atmosphere from the at least one
interior portion; and wherein such at least one channel comprises at
least one isolator structured and arranged to isolate the vented
atmosphere from the at least one local controller device.
Even further, it provides such a system further comprising: at least
one first interlocker; and at least one second interlocker; wherein
such at least one second interlocker is adapted to interlock with
such at least one first interlocker; wherein such at least one first
interlocker comprises such at least one closure; wherein such at
least one second interlocker comprises such at least one protective
cover; and wherein interlocking of such at least one first
interlocker and such at least one second interlocker removably
retains such at least one protective cover to such at least one
base. Moreover, it provides such a system wherein: such at least one
protective cover further comprises at least one first aperture
adapted to pass at least one portion of at least one padlock
shackle; such at least one closure further comprises at least one
second aperture to pass the at least one portion of the at least one
padlock shackle; and such removable retention of such at least one
protective cover adjacent such at least one closure by such
interlocking permits at least one position of alignment between such
at least one first aperture and such at least one second aperture to
permit passage of the at least one portion of the at least one
padlock shackle through both such at least one first aperture and
such at least one second aperture. Additionally, it provides such a
system wherein such at least one peripheral wall comprises at least
one data transfer port to permit at least one transfer of data
between the at least one local controlling device within such at
least one hollow cavity and at least one data transfer device
external to such at least one well cap. Also, it provides such a
system wherein: such at least one data transfer port comprises of
such at least one peripheral wall; such at least one transparent
portion is structured and arranged to provide at least one signal
view of at least one portion of the at least one local controller
device even when such at least one protective cover is removably
retained on such at least one base. In addition, it provides such a
system wherein: such at least one first interlocker comprises at
least one peripheral notch formed within such at least one
peripheral edge of such at least one closure; such at least one
second interlocker comprises at least one tab projecting from such
at least one inner peripheral edge of such at least one protective
cover; such at least one peripheral notch is adapted to permit such
at least one tab to pass through such at least one closure from a
position adjacent such at least one first face, to a position
adjacent such at least one second face; and at least one rotation of
such at least one protective cover relative to such at least one
closure, while such at least one tab is in the position adjacent
such at least one second face, removably retains such at least one
protective cover on such at least one base member. And, it provides
such a system wherein such at least one well cap substantially
comprises at least one thermoplastic. Further, it provides such a
system wherein such at least one well cap is substantially comprised
of aluminum. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at
least one well cap is substantially comprised of stainless steel.
Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one
well cap is substantially comprised of brass.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a system for supplying a flow of water, from at
least one well having at least one well pipe, at least one upper
well pipe opening and at least one pipe interior, to at least one
structure having a pressurized water supply, comprising, in
combination: at least one pump to pump water from the at least one
pipe interior; at least one local control system to control such at
least one pump; at least one well cap, comprising at least one
internal hollow, to cap the at least one upper well pipe opening;
wherein such at least one local control system is located
essentially within such at least one internal hollow of such at
least one well cap. Even further, it provides such a system wherein
such at least one local control system comprises at least one local
pressure sensor for monitoring the pressure of the flow of water
delivered from such at least one pump.
Even further, it provides such a system further comprising such at
least one well having at least one well pipe. Even further, it
provides such a system wherein such at least one local pressure
sensor is located within such at least one well pipe of such at
least one well. Even further, it provides such a system further
comprising at least one water transfer system to transfer the flow
of water from such at least one well to the at least one structure
having at least one pressurized water supply. Even further, it
provides such a system further comprising such at least one
structure having at least one pressurized water supply. Even
further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one well
and such at least one local control system are structured and
arranged to permit maintenance of such system without entry to the
at least one structure. Even further, it provides such a system
wherein such at least one local control system comprises the sole
controller of such at least one pump within such system.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a well cap system installed on the
above grade portion of a well casing, according to a preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a sectional view through the section 2--2 of FIG. 1
illustrating internal features of the well cap system.
FIG. 3A is an exploded view of the well cap system, according to the
preferred embodiment of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.
FIG. 3B is a sectional view through a vent assembly of the well cap
system, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1 through FIG.
3.
FIG. 4 is a top view of a base member of the well cap system,
according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 3A.
FIG. 5 is a bottom view of a protective cover of the well cap
system, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 3A.
FIG. 6 is a sectional view through the section 6--6 of FIG. 4.
FIG. 7 is a top view of the base member, according to the preferred
embodiment of FIG. 3A.
FIG. 8 is a sectional view through the section 8--8 of FIG. 4.
FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic sectional view through a well system
supplying water to a structure such as building 202, according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is detail view 10 of FIG. 9 depicting, in partial section, a
pressure detector used in conjunction with a local pump controller.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of well cap system 100 installed on the
above grade portion 102 of well casing 104 (shown in dashed lines),
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Preferably, well cap system 100 is substantially supported by well
casing 104, as shown. Preferably, well cap system 100 (at least
herein embodying well capping means for capping the at least one
well pipe; and further at least herein embodying at least one well
cap to cap the at least one well pipe) comprises two principal
components: a closure member 106, and a removable protective cover
108, supported by closure member 106, as shown.
FIG. 2 is the sectional view 2--2 of FIG. 1 illustrating internal
features of well cap system 100. FIG. 2 diagrammatically illustrates
a typical application of well cap system 100 installed on a well
having a controllable apparatus 118 (shown in dashed lines),
preferably and typically a pump, and an associated controller 120
(also shown in dashed lines). Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues
such as well type, intended use, local regulatory requirements,
etc., other controllable apparatus arrangements may suffice; for
example, controllable apparatus 118 may also comprise a valve,
motor, monitor, etc.
Preferably, closure member 106 (at least herein embodying closure
means for substantially closing the at least one upper opening)
comprises an essentially planar disk having an upper face 110 (at
least herein embodying at least one first face), a lower face 112
(at least herein embodying at least one second face), and perimeter
edge 113 (at least herein embodying a peripheral edge), as shown.
Lower face 112 preferably includes a downwardly-projecting mounting
collar 114 (at least herein embodying wherein such at least one
closure comprises at least one mount adapted to mount such at least
one closure to the at least one well pipe; and further comprising at
least one collar projecting outwardly from such at least one second
face) adapted to fit over the upper opening 116 of well casing 104,
as shown. Most preferably, closure member 106 comprises several
nested mounting collars 114 to permit a single well cap system 100
to adapt to various diameter well casings 104 (shown in dashed
lines). Preferably, one or more removable mechanical fasteners, such
as screw 119, are used to retain well cap system 100 on well casing
104, as shown. Screw 119 preferably threads through mounting collar
114 and engages well casing 104, as shown. Preferably, mounting
collar 114 is pre-drilled to permit screw 119 to pass, as shown.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost, ease of
installation, required security at the well site etc., other
fastening arrangements may suffice, such as, for example,
friction-fitting, bolting, clamping, etc.
Upper face 110 (at least herein embodying support means for
supporting the at least one local control system within such
protective cover means; and further at least herein embodying at
least one support to support the at least one local controller
device within such at least one protective cover) of closure member
106 preferably serves as a support and mounting surface for
controller 120, as shown. The preferred thickness of closure member
106 between upper face 110 and lower face 112 is about one-half
inch, providing closure member 106 with suitable structural rigidity
to permit support of controllers 120 of various weights and mounting
requirements. In the present example of FIG. 2, closure member 106
has been drilled through upper face 106 and tapped to provide
threaded sockets 122 for securely mounting controller 120 to closure
member 106, as shown. Closure member 106 further preferably
comprises one or more threaded openings 126 to permit electrical
power and control circuits to pass through closure member 106, as
shown. In the example of FIG. 2, threaded opening 126 (at least
herein embodying wherein such at least one well cap further
comprises at least one electrical passage structured and arranged to
pass at least one electrical conductor from within such at least one
hollow cavity to at least one point external to such at least one
hollow cavity) is fitted with threaded fitting 128 adapted to
provide a termination point for supply conduit 124. Also visible in
the sectional view of FIG. 2 is a second preferred threaded opening
126 and threaded fitting 128 that permits control wiring 130 to
route from controller 120 through closure member 106 to controllable
apparatus 118 and/or secondary apparatus 132, as shown.
Preferably, controller 120 is protectively housed within cavity 134
formed by the cap-like protective cover 108 (at least herein
embodying protective covering means for protectively covering the at
least one local controller; and further at least herein embodying at
least one protective cover adapted to protectively cover the at
least one local controller device), as shown. Preferably, protective
cover 108 comprises a unitary, hollow, member, as shown. Preferably,
protective cover 108 comprises a generally cylindrical-shaped
enclosure having a continuous sidewall 136, projecting from a
generally circular integral top 138, as shown. Preferably, lower
perimeter edge 140 of sidewall 136 defines opening 139 (at least
herein embodying at least one peripheral wall defining at least one
hollow cavity adapted to contain the at least one local controller
device; and further at least herein embodying wherein such at least
one peripheral wall comprises at least one access opening, having at
least one inner peripheral edge, to permit access to such at least
one hollow cavity) preferably sized to mount over the outer
perimeter edge 113 of closure member 106, as shown. The lower
interior face of sidewall 136 preferably comprises an integral
annular offset 142 adapted to rest on upper face 110 of closure
member 106, as shown.
Lower perimeter edge 140 of sidewall 136 preferably extends below
the level of lower face 112, as shown, to permit effective shedding
of rainwater.
Preferably, well cap system 100 comprises view-port 144, preferably
consisting of view aperture 150 through circular top 138, as shown.
Preferably, view-port 144 is fitted with transparent cover 146, as
shown. In use, view-port 144 permits a view from the exterior of
well cap system 100 to a portion of controller 120 without removing
protective cover 108. The preferred use of view-port 144 permits a
reading of the status of controller 120 by means of a display panel
or infrared data transfer means. It is preferred that transparent
cover 146 is constructed of a rigid plastic, such as polycarbonate.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as cost and
application, etc., other transparent and/or translucent materials
may suffice, such as, for example, glass, styrene, etc.
Well cap system 100 preferably includes a security padlock
accommodation 148 for securing protective cover 108 to closure
member 106, thus preventing unauthorized access to controller 120,
as shown. Preferably, security padlock accommodation 148 comprises
first lock aperture 150 within protective cover 108, and second lock
aperture 152 within closure member 106, as shown. Preferably, both
first lock aperture 150 and second lock aperture 152 are adapted to
pass the shackle 156 of padlock 154, as shown. The preferred
arrangement of second lock aperture 152 of security padlock
accommodation 148 is more clearly visible in FIG. 3 as described
below.
Preferably, protective cover 108 and closure member 106 allow for at
least one position of alignment between first lock aperture 150 and
second lock aperture 152 to permit a simultaneous passage of padlock
shackle 156, as shown.
FIG. 3A is an exploded view of the well cap system 100, according to
the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. The preferred
arrangement of second lock aperture 152 of security padlock
accommodation 148 (as illustrated in FIG. 2) is clearly visible in
FIG. 3A. Preferably, second lock aperture 152 is located within
tongue member 156, projecting downwardly from perimeter edge 113, as
shown. The corresponding first lock aperture 150 is visibly located
at lower perimeter edge 140 of protective cover 108. In the
preferred embodiment of FIG. 1 through FIG. 3A, closure member 106
contains three threaded openings 126, as shown. Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering issues such as specific applications, apparatus
requirements, etc., other quantities and arrangements of apertures,
such as, for example, the inclusion of unassigned apertures, spare
apertures, etc., may suffice. Preferably, unused threaded openings
126 are filled with blanking inserts 158, as shown. Under
appropriate circumstances, such as to expedite conduit installation,
threaded openings 126 may be supplied with one or more threaded
fittings 128 pre-installed by the supplier or manufacturer.
Preferably, well cap system 100 is adapted to permit controlled
atmospheric venting between the interior of the well casing and the
outside environment. To accommodate atmospheric venting of well
casing 104, closure member 106 preferably comprises vent assembly
160 comprising a first vent aperture 162, second vent aperture 164
and venting channel 166, as shown. Preferably, first venting
aperture 162 penetrates closure member 106 at a location permitting
first venting aperture 162 to be in fluid communication with the
interior portion 168 of well casing 104 (while closure member 106 is
installed). Preferably, second vent aperture 164 also penetrates
closure member 106, but is located such that one end is in fluid
communication with the environment exterior to the interior portion
168 of well casing 104. Preferably, venting channel 166 acts as an
air passage (see FIG. 3B), bridging between first venting aperture
162 and second vent aperture 164, as shown. Preferably, venting
channel 166 is fastened to closure member 106 using threaded
fasteners 169, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues
such as fabrication cost material choice, etc., other venting
arrangements may suffice, such as, for example, venting channel 166
may be integral to closure member 106.
Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those
with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as controller
function and availability, other controller sizes, shapes and
mounting means may suffice. Moreover, under appropriate
circumstances, controllable apparatus 118 may preferably include
such proprietary components as mounting standoffs 170, mounting
anchors, etc.
FIG. 3B is a sectional view through vent assembly 160 (at least
herein embodying at least one vent to provide atmospheric venting
between the at least one interior portion of the at least one well
pipe, and an environment exterior to the at least one interior
portion of the at least one well pipe), according to the preferred
embodiment of FIG. 1 through FIG. 3A. Referring specifically to FIG.
3B with continued reference to FIG. 3A, preferably venting channel
166 (at least herein embodying at least one channel to channel
vented atmosphere from the at least one interior portion) comprises
a hollow, substantially rectangular U-shaped member, as shown.
Preferably, air moving between first vent aperture 162 and second
vent aperture 164 passes through hollow cavity 172 of venting
channel 166 that is preferably positioned over the vent apertures,
as shown. Venting channel 166 preferably isolates moist air within
well casing 104 from and essentially keeps that moist air from
directly reaching controller 120 (at least herein embodying at least
one isolator structured and arranged to isolate the vented
atmosphere from the at least one local controller device). Upon
reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary
skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering issues such as intended environment,
service duration, etc., other venting arrangements may suffice, such
as, for example, hollow cavity 172 may include such preferred
features as screening or packing to prevent entry of insects or
other unwanted materials into well casing 104.
In reference to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, FIG. 4 is a bottom view of
closure member 106, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG.
3A. FIG. 5 is a bottom view of protective cover 108, according to
the preferred embodiment of FIG. 3A. Preferably, well cap system 100
comprises an arrangement that permits protective cover 108 to be
removably retained on closure member 106 by means of asymmetrically
arranged interlocking tabs 176 located along the interior edge 177
of opening 139, and complementary peripheral notches 178 (at least
herein embodying at least one first interlocker) positioned along
perimeter edge 113, as shown. Preferably, peripheral notches 178 are
adapted to permit interlocking tabs 176 (at least herein embodying
at least one second interlocker wherein such at least one second
interlocker is adapted to interlock with such at least one first
interlocker) to pass through closure member 106 from a position
above upper face 110, to a rotatable position below lower face 112,
as shown. Rotation of protective cover 108 relative to closure
member 106, while interlocking tabs 176 are below lower face 112,
preferably misaligns peripheral notches 178 and interlocking tabs
176 and thereby removably retains protective cover 108 on closure
member 106, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues
such as ease of manufacturing, required security, etc., other
methods of retaining protective cover 108 on closure member 106 may
suffice, such as, for example, screws, bolts, hinges, clasps,
removable attachments, etc. A shallow recess 180 is preferably
formed into lower face 112, adjacent to second lock aperture 152, to
permit the shackle of a padlock to clear closure member 106 (as
illustrated in FIG. 2).
As noted in the prior figures, closure member 106 preferably
comprises adapter assembly 174 (at least herein embodying at least
one size-adapter to adapt such at least one closure to at least two
such well pipes having different sizes) to permit a single well cap
system 100 to be adapted to several well casing 104 sizes (in the
present application, the term "size" most preferably refers to a
measured diameter of a well casing having a circular section). In a
preferred arrangement, adapter assembly 174 comprises three mounting
collars 114, permitting closure member 106 to be mounted to four
different well casing sizes, as further described in FIG. 6 (at
least herein embodying wherein such at least one size-adapter
comprises at least one first one and at least one second one of such
at least one mounts, such at least one first one being adapted to
fit at least one such well pipe having a first size, and such at
least one second one being adapted to fit at least one such well
pipe having a second size different from such first size).
FIG. 6 is the sectional view 6--6 of FIG. 4 illustrating, in greater
detail, the preferred arrangement of adapter assembly 174. Adapter
assembly 174 preferably comprises outer collar 182, intermediate
collar 184, and inner collar 186, as shown. Preferably, outer collar
182, intermediate collar 184, and inner collar 186 each comprise a
generally cylindrical-shaped member having an inner diameter and an
outer diameter, as shown. Preferably, the mounting collars 114 of
adapter assembly 174 are concentrically nested, as shown.
Preferably, inner collar 186 has an interior diameter A of about
5.60 inches to permit inner collar 186 to fit over well casing 104,
having a nominal diameter of about 5 inches (about 5.56 inches
O.D.). Those with ordinary skill in the art, upon reading the
teachings of this specification, will appreciate that the term
"nominal" preferably refers to a pipe diameter or wall thickness, as
specified, which may vary from the actual physical size. Preferably,
inner collar 186 has an outer diameter B of about 5.96 inches to
permit inner collar 186 to fit within interior portion 168 of well
casing 104, having a nominal diameter of about 6 inches (about 6.065
inches I.D.). Preferably, intermediate collar 184 has an inner
diameter C of about 7.02 inches to permit intermediate collar 184 to
fit over well casing 104, having an outside diameter of about 7
inches. Intermediate collar 184 has a preferred outer diameter D of
about 7.98 inches. Preferably, outer collar 182 has an inner
diameter E of about 8.64 inches to permit outer collar 182 to fit
over well casing 104 having a nominal diameter of about 8 inches
(about 8.625 inches O.D.). Preferably, each mounting collar projects
from lower face 112 about 2 inches, as shown. Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering issues such as well configuration, well casing size,
etc., other mounting collar arrangements may suffice, such as, for
example, use of collar sizes adapted to other well casing diameters
both larger and smaller, adaptations to fit non-circular casings,
use of adjustable banding clamps, etc. Preferably, mounting holes
196 are pre-drilled through each of the mounting collars 114, in
concentrically aligned sets, each set positioned along a common
axis, as shown. Preferably, the open areas between mounting collars
114 adjacent to lower face 112 may include an annular seal 230, as
shown. Preferably, annular seal 230 comprises an adhesive-backed
foam or rubber material having a thickness of about 1/8.sup.th inch.
Preferably, annular seal 230 permits lower face 112 to positively
seal against the upper end of well casing 104, as shown.
In reference to FIG. 7, with continued reference to the prior
Figures, FIG. 7 is a top view of closure member 106, according to
the preferred embodiment of FIG. 3A, illustrating a preferred
arrangement of system components. Base member 106 has an outer
diameter F of about one foot.
Preferably, well cap system 100 is constructed from one or more
substantially rigid and durable materials. To reduce the risk of
electrical shock, system 100 is preferably produced from a
non-metallic material. Currently, it is most preferred that both
closure member 106 and protective cover 108 be constructed from the
same material, preferably a UV-stabilized thermoplastic, such as ABS
(acrylonitrile butadiene styrene). Upon reading the teachings of
this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues
such as cost, harsh local well environments, etc., the use of other
materials in the construction of the well cap system may suffice,
such as, for example, PVC plastic, fiber-reinforced resins,
stainless steel, aluminum, brass, etc.
FIG. 8 is the sectional view 8--8 of FIG. 4 through protective cover
108. Preferably, protective cover 108 comprises a unitary
moisture-resistant thermoplastic housing. Upon reading the teachings
of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as the strength characteristics of the selected fabrication
materials, utilization of specialized housing configurations, etc.,
other wall thickness or dimensional arrangements from those
illustrated below, may suffice, such as, for example, the
incorporation of thinner or thicker material sections or use of
selective areas of reinforcement. It is preferred that protective
cover 108 comprises an average wall thickness of about 0.41 inch
(using the preferred ABS thermoplastic material). Although it is
preferred that only the closure member 106 comprise such features as
threaded openings 126, controller 120 mountings and support, those
of ordinary skill in the art, upon reading the teachings of this
specification, will now appreciate that, under appropriate
circumstances, protective cover 108 may include any or all of the
above-mentioned features and components. Further, protective cover
108 may, under appropriate circumstances, comprise the outer housing
of controller 120.
FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic sectional view through operating well
system 200, supplying water to a structure shown as building 202,
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Well
system 200 is preferably of a constant pressure type whereby water
pressure is maintained within the system, regardless of the water
demand, as shown. Preferably, well system 200 comprises; submersible
pump 204, local pump controller 206, pressure detector assembly 208,
power/control connection 205 and well cap system 100, as shown. Well
system 200 may further comprise; water-well 210, water transfer
piping 212 (to transfer water from submersible pump 204 to building
202 or other structure), pitless adapter 209, electrical supply 214,
pressure tank 215 and, under appropriate circumstances, building 202
(or other structure having a pressurized water supply), as shown.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as local codes
and specific site requirements, the use of additional components
within the well system may suffice, such as, for example,
check-valves, test fittings, electrical and grounding connectors,
splice boxes, electrical breakers, torque arresters/stop, etc.
Prior water-well installations typically locate the pump controller
within building 202 (for example, within a utility room of a private
residence). Monitoring and maintenance of prior systems has
therefore required some level of access to such structure. Further,
the use of prior constant pressure systems in new building
construction has required that an appropriate level of construction
be completed before the pump controller and related equipment can be
installed.
Well system 200 overcomes the deficiencies of prior well systems by
utilizing well cap system 100 to permit local control, monitoring
and maintenance of the well system at well site 216, as shown. This
arrangement reduces or eliminates issues, for closable structures
restricting entry, of building access and availability (at least
herein embodying wherein such at least one well and such at least
one local control system are structured and arranged to permit
maintenance of such system without entry to the at least one
structure). Additionally, the requirement to route power/control
connection 205 the extended distance from submersible pump 204 to a
controller located in building 202 has been eliminated, as both
local pump controller 206 and power supply 214 may be local to well
site 216, as shown. It is noted that, the term "structure" shall
include within its definition, a broad range of constructions and
apparatus, such as, for example, occupiable buildings, remote
livestock tanks, irrigation systems, drinking fountains, storage
tank compounds, etc.; and the term "building" shall include within
its definition only "structures" having restricted access and/or
typically requiring permissions and/or appointments for access.
In preferred operation, a single local pump controller 206
(preferably supported within well cap system 100) receives
electricity from power supply 214 and pressure data from pressure
detector assembly 208, as shown. Local pump controller 206 is
preferably preprogrammed to maintain a selected water pressure
within the system. Local pump controller 206, by detecting a water
pressure drop at pitless adapter 209, maintains the preset system
pressure by regulating the output of submersible pump 204.
Preferably, the pressurized water output from submersible pump 204
is directed through water transfer piping 212 to building 202, as
shown. In most circumstances, the only required connection to
building 202 is water transfer piping 212, as shown (at least herein
embodying at least one water transfer system to transfer the flow of
water from such at least one well to the at least one structure
having at least one pressurized water supply).
Preferably, local pump controller 206 is a commercially-available
variable frequency drive compatible unit (for example, control box
model CU301 produced by Grundfos Pumps Corporation of Fresno Calif.,
U.S.A.). Preferably, local pump controller 206 comprises a selector
and display panel 218 for system monitoring and adjustment.
Preferably, selector and display panel 218 is conveniently viewable
through view-port 144 (at least herein embodying wherein such at
least one peripheral wall comprises at least one data transfer port
to permit at least one transfer of data between the at least one
local control system located within such at least one hollow cavity
and at least one data device external to such at least one well cap;
and at least herein embodying wherein such at least one transparent
portion is structured and arranged to provide at least one signal
view of at least one portion of the at least one local controller
device even when such at least one protective cover is removably
retained on such at least one base) from outside well cap system
100, as shown. Under appropriate circumstances, local pump
controller 206 may include a hand-held infrared remote 220 (such as
unit model R100 produced by Grundfos Pumps Corporation of Fresno
Calif., U.S.A.), capable of retrieving pump and performance data by
data exchange through view-port 144, as shown.
Preferably, submersible pump 204 is a high-efficiency variable
frequency drive unit, preferably comprising a permanent-magnet motor
with an output matched to the specific well application. Preferably,
submersible pump 204 used in well system 200 is commercially
available, and may be sourced from, for example, the SQE line of
variable-frequency drive pumps produced by Grundfos Pumps
Corporation (as noted above). Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues
such as cost and availability, other manufacturers of pumps and
controllers may suffice, such as, for example, Franklin Electric
Company, Inc., Bluffton, Ind., U.S.A., or Goulds Pumps, ITT
Industries, Seneca Falls, N.Y.
It is currently preferred that at least one pressure tank 215 or
similar device be utilized within the system, as shown. Pressure
tank 215 preferably serves to help regulate and maintain the system
water pressure and reduces pressure fluctuations that occur during
on-and-off cycling of submersible pump 204.
FIG. 10 is a detail view of detail 10 of FIG. 9 depicting, in
partial section, pressure detector assembly 208 adapted to engage
pitless adapter 209 (at least herein embodying wherein such at least
one local pressure sensor is located within such at least one well
pipe). Preferably, pressure detector assembly 208 (at least herein
embodying at least one local pressure sensor for monitoring the
pressure of the flow of water delivered from such at least one pump)
is a solid state transducer having a threaded end that is adapted to
engage a portion of water transfer piping 212, most preferably the
top of pitless adapter 209, as shown.
Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments
of this invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of
this invention includes such modifications as diverse shapes and
sizes and materials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims
as read in connection with the above specification. Further, many
other advantages of applicant's invention will be apparent to those
skilled in the art from the above descriptions and the below claims.
* * * * *
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