Apparatus and Method for Picking Up Particles from the Surface of a Water System

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention provides an apparatus and method for removing particles—such as oil, algae, or dirt—from the surface of a water body. The system uses a particle separation chamber with an inflow for particle-laden water, a collection chamber for separated particles, and an adjustable device to precisely control the water level in the separation chamber. The apparatus employs hydrodynamic separation and can adapt to changing sea conditions, making particle collection more efficient even during movement or waves.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Cleaning up oil spills from oceans, seas, lakes, or rivers
• Removing algae blooms from water surfaces to prevent ecological damage
• Collecting floating debris and dirt in harbors, marinas, or recreational water areas
• Maintaining cleanliness near industrial water outlets or pipelines
• Supporting disaster response teams in maritime environmental protection operations

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Efficient separation and collection of surface contaminants, even in challenging sea conditions
• Reduces water content in the collected particles, maximizing storage space and reducing disposal costs
• Adjustable system adapts to environmental changes (waves, vessel draft) automatically or via manual control
• Can be incorporated into self-propelled vessels or towed units, offering operational flexibility
• Improves effectiveness and reliability of water surface cleaning for ecological and economic protection

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to an apparatus for picking up particles from the surface of a water system (2), in particular oil, algae or dirt particles, comprising: a particle separating chamber (8), which is connected to an inflow opening (7) through which particle-containing water can be transported to the particle separating chamber, a particle collection chamber (10, 11) in which particles separated from the particle-containing water are transported from the particle separating chamber by way of a separating device (9), and an adjusting device (13) which is configured to regulate a fill level of the particle-containing water in the particle separating chamber. The invention further relates to a method for picking up particles from the surface of a water system, in particular oil, algae or dirt particles, using the method described above.