WO2009135267A1 - Procédé et appareil améliorés pour traiter des contaminations d’origine marine sur une surface - Google Patents

Procédé et appareil améliorés pour traiter des contaminations d’origine marine sur une surface Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2009135267A1
WO2009135267A1 PCT/AU2009/000575 AU2009000575W WO2009135267A1 WO 2009135267 A1 WO2009135267 A1 WO 2009135267A1 AU 2009000575 W AU2009000575 W AU 2009000575W WO 2009135267 A1 WO2009135267 A1 WO 2009135267A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
volume
accordance
arrangement
marine growth
fluid
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/AU2009/000575
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Keith Johnson
Timothy Johnson
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from AU2008902256A external-priority patent/AU2008902256A0/en
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Publication of WO2009135267A1 publication Critical patent/WO2009135267A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B59/00—Hull protection specially adapted for vessels; Cleaning devices specially adapted for vessels
    • B63B59/06—Cleaning devices for hulls
    • B63B59/08—Cleaning devices for hulls of underwater surfaces while afloat

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for treating marine growth on a surface, and, particularly, but not exclusively, to a method and apparatus for treating marine growth on boats and ships hulls and other water resident objects.
  • Marine growth on water resident objects such as piers, waterways, oil rigs, water-going vessels, is a significant problem.
  • marine growth such as algae weed, invertebrates (mussels, crustaceans) can cause significant cost, for operators of commercial shipping in particular.
  • Marine growth can result in greater wear and tear, significant increase in fuel consumption if not treated (10%-15%) and substantial maintenance costs.
  • anti-fouling paints can be expensive to purchase and apply and require re-application periodically.
  • Mechanical scrubbing techniques utilising brush cleaning machines or the like have been used to remove marine growth. Again, however, authorities often ban the use of such equipment due to the environmental effects of infestation of imported marine life in areas where the mechanical cleaning occurs.
  • intensive scrubbing techniques can result in damage to or removal of the surface treatment which can in turn be costly as well as potentially accentuating the environmental damage caused by the scrubbing due to the release of paint toxins into the environment .
  • the present invention provides an apparatus for treating marine growth on a surface, comprising a confinement arrangement arranged to confine a volume adjacent a portion of the surface, an entry port arranged to enable introduction of a heated fluid to the volume, the entry port being arranged so that the heated fluid is directed into the volume in such a manner as to facilitate even heating of the volume.
  • the entry port is arranged such that the fluid is introduced into the volume in such a manner as to reduce or avoid a Venturi effect tending to cause uneven heating of the volume.
  • the entry port is arranged to direct fluid flow downwardly away from the top and towards the bottom of the apparatus in operation. In an embodiment, the entry port is arranged to direct fluid flow to fan outwardly as it leaves the port.
  • the confinement arrangement is movable over the surface to treat other parts of the surface and comprises a cover containing the volume.
  • the entry port (s) open through the cover.
  • retaining means are arranged to retain the confinement arrangement proximate the surface, so that it is retained adjacent the surface regardless of the orientation of the surface.
  • the apparatus comprises bearings arranged to bear against the surface in use.
  • the bearings may comprise one or more bearings and one or more bearing supports mounting the one or more bearings .
  • the retention means includes one or more magnets.
  • the magnets may be mounted in the bearing support (s) .
  • the cover is flexible so that it may conform to the surface being treated, so that the confined volume conforms to the surface as the apparatus moves over the surface .
  • the bearings are in the form of ball rollers.
  • the ball rollers enable the apparatus to be moved in any direction across the surface .
  • the bearings are in the form of casters mounted on gimbles.
  • marine growth covers any animal or vegetable matter that may grow on any water going or residing object and is not limited to organisms which only occur in the sea. The term also includes organisms which occur in inland waterways and lakes .
  • the heated fluid is at a temperature sufficient to kill the marine growth.
  • the fluid is heated remotely and passed into the volume from a remote location. Heated fluid may be exhausted from the confined volume as further heated fluid is introduced to the confined volume. The heated fluid may be exhausted into the surrounding environment. In an alternative embodiment, the heated fluid may be further treated within an exhaust means, or may be trapped by a trap arrangement . In one embodiment, the exhaust means comprises a flexible skirt which borders the confinement arrangement . In another embodiment, the exhaust means may be a passageway or duct where marine material is further treated. In an embodiment, the exhaust means may exit into a trap for marine material .
  • the apparatus may be applied to treat a surface in situ. For example, if the surface is a ships hull, then the apparatus may be applied to treat the ships hull below the water line.
  • the cover has a back and sides and an open face, between them forming a cavity.
  • the open face is arranged to be positioned against the surface to be treated, edges of the sides abutting the surface.
  • the sides are formed by a skirt.
  • the confined volume is defined within the cavity within the cover.
  • the skirt is flexible and forms a loose seal against the surface in operation.
  • the apparatus may be moved over the surface being treated in a number of ways. It may be moved manually, for example, by a diver. In another embodiment, however, the apparatus may be moved by a remote control vehicle.
  • the present invention provides a method for treating marine growth on a surface, comprising the steps of confining a volume adjacent a portion of the surface, and introducing heated fluid into the volume in such a manner as to facilitate even heating of the volume .
  • the heated fluid is introduced in such a manner as to reduce or avoid a Venturi effect tending to cause uneven heating of the volume.
  • the present invention provides an apparatus for treating marine growth on a surface, including a confinement arrangement arranged to confine a volume adjacent a portion of the surface and an entry port arranged to enable introduction of a heated fluid to the volume, the confinement arrangement comprising a skirt providing a seal about the volume, the confinement arrangement being movable over the surface to treat other portions of the surface, the skirt providing a low tension contact against the surface so that when the arrangement is moved over the surface it does not substantially remove marine growth.
  • tension of the seal is adjustable.
  • the skirt is flexible and has a hollow cross section.
  • the cross section is an "0" ring.
  • the cross section is in the form of a section of a circle.
  • the cross section is semi -circular.
  • the skirt is adjustable in size to adjust the tension against the surface.
  • the tension of the skirt against the surface is arranged such that fluid can escape the volume via the seal .
  • the apparatus is arranged for operation partly or totally underwater, and, in an embodiment, tension of the skirt against the surface is arranged such that the skirt may hydroplane over the surface as it moves.
  • the confinement arrangement is moveable over the surface to treat other parts of the surface and comprises a cover containing the volume.
  • bearings are provided which in use bear against the surface and support the cover a pre-determined distance from the surface.
  • retaining means are provided to retain the confinement arrangement proximate the surface, so it remains adjacent the surface regardless of the orientation of the surface.
  • the present invention provides a method for treating marine growth on a surface, comprising the steps of confining a volume against a portion of the surface, heating the volume, and sealing the volume against the surface with a low tension seal such that the volume may move across the surface without substantially dislodging marine growth.
  • the present invention provides an apparatus for treating marine growth on a surface, comprising a confinement arrangement arranged to confine a volume adjacent a portion of the surface, an entry port arranged to enable introduction of a heated fluid to the volume, and an exhaust arrangement arranged to exhaust fluid from the volume and reduce or eliminate escape of marine growth matter into the environment .
  • the apparatus is arranged to prevent or reduce the escape of live marine growth matter into the environment. Treatment of the marine growth matter within the volume kills substantially all the marine growth.
  • the exhaust arrangement includes an arrangement which results in further treatment of marine growth entering the exhaust means, advantageously killing any marine growth which may still be alive.
  • the exhaust arrangement comprises a trap for trapping marine growth matter and preventing it from exiting into the surrounding environment.
  • the exhaust arrangement comprises a passageway which is arranged to receive exhaust fluid from the confinement arrangement.
  • the exhaust fluid is still at elevated temperatures sufficient to treat marine growth within the passageway.
  • the trap comprises a net or fine mesh which the passageway exits into. The net or fine mesh advantageously allows fluid to escape into the external environment but reduces or eliminates escape of treated marine growth into the environment .
  • the confinement arrangement is moveable over the surface to treat other parts of the surface and comprises a cover containing the volume.
  • the apparatus comprises a retaining means arranged to retain the confinement arrangement proximate the surface, so it remains adjacent the surface regardless of the orientation of the surface.
  • this fifth aspect of the invention may include any or all of the features of any of the first to fourth aspects of the invention discussed above.
  • the present invention provides a method for treating marine growth on a surface, comprising the steps of confining a volume against a portion of the surface, introducing heated fluid into the volume, exhausting the heated fluid from the volume and preventing or reducing the escape of marine growth matter into the environment from the volume during exhaustion.
  • the present invention provides an apparatus for treating marine growth on a surface, including a confinement arrangement arranged to confine a volume adjacent a portion of the surface, the confinement arrangement including a cover for containing the volume, the cover being provided with an entry port arranged to enable introduction of a heated fluid to the volume, the confinement arrangement being movable over the surface to treat other portions of the surface, the apparatus including components which are mounted substantially externally of the cover, substantially outside of the confined volume, whereby to enable the depth of the confined volume to be optimised.
  • the components include a bearing support mounting one or more bearings. At least a portion of the one or more bearings extends into the covering and in use is arranged to bear against the surface. In an embodiment, the one or more bearings may be mounted entirely within the covering. In an alternative embodiment, a portion of the one or more bearings may extend within the covering and another portion may not extend within the covering.
  • the components include a retention means, which is operable to retain the confinement arrangement against the surface being treated. In one embodiment, the retention means includes one or more magnets. In an embodiment, the entire retention means is mounted within the cover. In an alternative embodiment, the portion of the retention means extends into the cover and another portion of the extension means does not extend into the cover.
  • the components include one or more bearings and one or more retention means, the retention means and bearings are mounted by the bearing support.
  • the portion of the retention means extends externally of the cover.
  • the cover is, in one embodiment, of flexible material, so that it may conform to the surface being treated, so that the confined volume conforms to the surface as the apparatus moves over the surface.
  • the entry port for heated fluid is positioned so that in use it is situated at the lower part of the cover, so that heated fluid introduced into the confined volume will naturally flow upwardly through the confined volume.
  • the bearings are in the form of ball rollers.
  • the ball rollers enable the apparatus to be moved in any direction across the surface .
  • the heated fluid is at a temperature sufficient to kill the marine growth.
  • the fluid is heated remotely and passed into the volume from the remote location. Heated fluid may be exhausted from the confined volume as further heated fluid is introduced to the confined volume. The heated fluid may be exhausted into the surrounding environment .
  • a depth dimension of the confined volume is relatively small in magnitude.
  • the heated fluid introduced into the confined volume may form a layer over the portion of the surface, the layer being of relatively small thickness.
  • this is energy efficient as it means that the amount of heated fluid required to treat the surface is minimised, and therefore the amount of energy utilised is minimised.
  • the actual depth dimension will in many cases depend upon the magnitude of the confined volume which may vary from application to application. In the embodiment, however, the depth dimension may be in a range of 2 -50mm, in an alternative embodiment in a range of 2 -15mm, in a further alternative embodiment in a range of 2 -10mm. In a further alternative embodiment, the range is 2 -8mm. In a further embodiment, it is between 3 -7mm. In one embodiment, the depth dimension is 6mm.
  • the apparatus may be applied to treat a surface in situ. For example, if the surface is a ship's hull, then the apparatus may be applied to treat the ship's hull below the water line.
  • an exhaust means enables heated fluid that has been introduced into the volume to be exhausted from the volume .
  • the exhaust means may exhaust the heated fluid into the surrounding environment .
  • the exhaust means is a flexible skirt which borders the confinement arrangement .
  • the cover has a back and sides and an open face, between them forming a cavity. The open face is arranged to be positioned against the surface to be treated, edges of the sides abutting the surface.
  • the confined volume is defined within the cavity within the cover.
  • the sides in an embodiment, are formed at least partially of a flexible skirt which forms a loose seal against the surface in operation.
  • the apparatus may be moved over the surface being treated in a number of ways. It may be moved manually, for example, by a diver. In another embodiment, however, apparatus such as the apparatus of the first aspect of the invention may be moved by a remote control vehicle .
  • the present invention provides a motive arrangement for moving an apparatus for treating marine growth on a surface over the surface, the motive arrangement comprising a remote control vehicle and winch assembly, the remote control vehicle having means arranged to secure the vehicle to the surface being treated, and a winch arrangement including at least one line arranged to be attached to the apparatus for treating the marine growth, the vehicle being movable across the surface and the winch being operable to adjust the length of the line, whereby to enable the apparatus for treating marine growth to be moved across the surface in a desired direction.
  • the apparatus for treating marine growth in one embodiment, includes a housing which is arranged to mount a means for applying heat to the surface .
  • the apparatus also includes a retaining means for retaining the housing proximate the surface.
  • the means for applying heat may be a heated fluid and the housing may include a confinement arrangement which is arranged to confine a volume of the heated fluid.
  • the confinement arrangement may also have an entry port arranged to allow the introduction of heated fluid into the volume .
  • the motive arrangement may be arranged for operation with an apparatus in accordance with any of the above aspects of the invention, but is not limited to operation with such apparatus.
  • the motive arrangement may be used with any apparatus which is arranged for the treatment of marine growth. Apparatus such as disclosed in the applicant's earlier referenced PCT application may be used with the motive arrangement of this aspect of the invention, for example.
  • Apparatus which includes a housing mounting a heating means (such as a heating element) may be driven by the motive arrangement of this aspect of the invention, for example.
  • a heating means such as a heating element
  • Apparatus including a conveyor belt of a material which retains heated fluid may also be used with the motive arrangement of this aspect of the invention, for example .
  • the present invention provides a method of moving an apparatus for treating marine growth on a surface over the surface, the method comprising the steps of operating a remote control vehicle which is connected to the apparatus and arranged to move the apparatus under remote control .
  • the present invention provides a system for treating marine growth on a surface, the system comprising a motive arrangement in accordance with the eighth aspect of the invention, and an apparatus for treating marine growth in accordance with any one of the first, third, fifth or seventh aspects of the invention.
  • the heated fluid is introduced in order to treat the marine growth.
  • the apparatus of the above embodiments may also be suitable for introducing any fluid or substance that may treat the marine growth, and may not necessarily be heated.
  • a chemical may be introduced by the apparatus to treat the marine growth.
  • Figure 1 is an underside view of an apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure IA is an underside view of an entry port 51 for introducing fluid into the apparatus of Figure 1;
  • Figure IB is a detail view of an alternative entry port 51
  • Figure 2 is a cross section along line XX of Figure 1;
  • Figure 3 is a detail on ZZ of Figure 1;
  • Figure 4 is a cross section on YY of Figure 3;
  • Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating operation of the embodiment of Figure 1;
  • Figure 6 is an underside view of an apparatus in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 7 is a rear view of the apparatus of Figure 6 ;
  • Figure 8 is a side view of the apparatus of Figure 6 ;
  • Figure 9 is a detailed exploded view of an apparatus in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 10 is a rear view of the apparatus of Figure 9;
  • Figure 11 is an underside view of the apparatus of Figure 9 ;
  • Figure 12 is a section on line EE of Figure 10;
  • Figure 13 is a perspective view from the underside of the apparatus of Figure 9;
  • Figure 14 is a perspective view from the rear of apparatus of Figure 9;
  • Figure 15 is a detailed exploded view of an apparatus in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 16 is a rear view of the apparatus of Figure 15;
  • Figure 17 is a section on line EE of Figure 16;
  • Figure 18 is a detail of Figure 17;
  • Figure 19 is a perspective view from the underside of the apparatus of Figure 15;
  • Figure 20 is a perspective view from the rear of the apparatus of Figure 15;
  • Figure 21 is a plan view of an apparatus in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 22 is a cross section along the line XX of Figure 21;
  • Figure 23 is a detail of a bearing support of the apparatus of Figure 21;
  • Figure 24 is a diagram illustrating a motive arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, being utilised with an apparatus in accordance with the embodiment of Figure 1.
  • Figures 1 to 4 are views of an embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with the present invention.
  • the apparatus generally designated by reference numeral 1 is in the form of a confinement arrangement 1 arranged to confine a volume of fluid adjacent a portion of the surface to be treated for marine growth.
  • the confinement arrangement 1 includes a flexible cover 42, comprising sides 2 and a back 3 arranged to define a space 4 within the sides 2 and back 3 for confining the volume of fluid.
  • the fluid In operation, the fluid is heated and the heat of the fluid operates to treat the marine growth (with sufficient heat to kill the marine growth) .
  • Heated fluid is introduced by a means of an entry port 51 (in the embodiment of Figures 1 to 4 there are two entry ports 51, positioned towards the TOP of the apparatus in use) .
  • the entry port is arranged such that heated fluid is directed into the volume in such a manner as to facilitate even heating of the volume .
  • the apparatus 1 includes a plurality of bearing support 40.
  • Each bearing support in this example comprises a mounting block 5 mounting four ball bearings 6.
  • the ball bearings 6 are retained within depressions 7 within the mounting block 5. In use, the ball bearings 6 bear against the surface being treated.
  • the mounting block 5 also mounts a retention device 41, which operates to retain the apparatus 1 against the surface to be treated, notwithstanding the orientation of the apparatus 1.
  • a ship's hull in the water can be treated by the apparatus 1, the retention devices 41 operating to retain the apparatus 1 against the side of the ship's hull.
  • the retention devices 41 are rare earth magnets, and each of the mounting blocks 5 mounts a rare earth magnet 41.
  • the magnet 41 does not make any contact with the ship's surface.
  • the distance between the magnet 41 and the surface can be adjusted via the mounting block 5 in order to vary the desired holding force.
  • the magnets 41 are shown mounted by the mounting blocks 5.
  • the magnets 41 may be mounted totally within the mounting block 5 and may not be able to be seen.
  • the mounting block 5 comprises a polyethylene block body which is constructed by assembling one or more polyethylene sections 8 together into a block and securing them together via a screw or bolt (not shown in Figures 1 to 4) .
  • a screw or bolt not shown in Figures 1 to 4
  • Other suitable materials could be used for the block.
  • sections 8 enables flexibility of design of the embodiment. For example, if a larger magnet 41 is required, two or more magnet housing sections 8a may be used in the mounting block 5.
  • the magnet housing sections 8a include a cavity 8b to receive the magnet 41.
  • a base plate 10 may be provided to go over the magnet 41 in the mountain block 5 (as discussed above) . This is shown in Figure 2 and in later embodiments. Base plates 10 of different thickness may be provided in order to adjust the distance between the magnet 41 and the surface to be treated.
  • the base plate 10 is a 3mm thick aluminium plate. In another embodiment, a lmm or 2mm stainless steel plate may be used as the base plate.
  • the volume 4 confined by the apparatus 1 may also be adjusted by adjusting the number of polyethylene sections 8 in each mounting block 5.
  • the operating distance between the inside of the cover 42 and the surface being treated may be in the range of 30-50mm, in an embodiment 35-45mm, in an embodiment 35-40mm, in an embodiment 35-38mm.
  • the arrangement may be vx 2ow profile", and the distance between the cover and surface in use may be in the range of 2 -15mm, 2-10 ⁇ nm, 2-8 ⁇ nm or 3-7mm.
  • a greater distance may be required, particularly where the surface being treated is heavily encrusted.
  • the rollers may be required to be of larger size, and the distance between the cover and surface being treated could be 50mm or more, or even 100mm or more.
  • mounting block 5 may not necessarily be an assembly of sections 8 as in this embodiment.
  • the mounting block 5 may be formed by moulding plastics incorporating the magnets and roller ball assemblies.
  • Mounting block 5 may be any suitable material, and is not limited to plastics.
  • the magnets be protected from the environment (e.g. a salt water environment) so as to avoid deterioration.
  • Mounting the magnets 41 in a mounting block, such as a mounting block of this embodiment facilitates protection of the magnets 41.
  • the cover 42 is a sheet of 3mm HDPE (polyethylene) and is quite flexible. Other suitable materials may be used for the cover, including marine carpet, rubberised insertion sheeting and Perspex.
  • any exotic flexible synthetic may be utilised, formed into a single sheet.
  • Some insulating sheeting e.g. neoprene
  • the thickness of the sheet is not restricted to 3mm, and it may be 4mm or 4.5mm or any convenient thickness .
  • the ball bearings 6 are 25mm stainless steel balls.
  • the roller balls 6 allow the apparatus to be moved in any direction over the surface, as they are multi-directional.
  • the invention is not limited to the use of ball bearings.
  • Any suitable bearing arrangement may be used in other embodiments.
  • cylindrical rollers may be used as the bearings. Any other convenient bearing arrangement may be utilised.
  • the bearings may comprise casters mounted on gimbles for motion in any direction.
  • each mounting block 5 there are four ball bearings 6 mounted on each mounting block 5. There may be less or more than four bearings. For example, in an embodiment, three casters mounted on gimbles may be arranged on each mounting block 5 in a triangular arrangement . There may be less or more bearings than this.
  • the mounting blocks include sloped sides 50 such that when the confinement arrangement 1 is moving upwards or downwards (towards TOP or towards the BOTTOM in the Figure) the mounting blocks may move easily over obstacles.
  • the sloped sides may extend all around the mounting blocks 5 and not just on opposing sides.
  • the mounting blocks 5 may be of different shape, such as circular, with a tapered circumference, or any other shape.
  • two entry ports 51 are mounted towards the top of the confinement arrangement 1 in operation.
  • the entry ports 51 provide downwardly projecting nozzles in use to direct fluid downwards into the volume and also to "fan" outwards, as illustrated by lines 53.
  • the profile of the entry port 51 is such as to form a narrow slot 51a, from which the water egresses. When ejected from the slot like aperture 51a, the introduced fluid fans out as illustrated by lines 53.
  • Heated fluid injected at the bottom of this embodiment may tend to travel upwardly and can give rise to a Venturi effect, resulting in the volume being heated unevenly and in particular the bottom part of the volume may be cool relative to the top part.
  • the Venturi effect can result in cool fluid being dragged from the external environment (e.g. external sea water) .
  • any Venturi effect is reduced and heating of volume 4 is facilitated.
  • the effect of injecting down and outwards may neutralise the thermal rise of the fluid as it would naturally tend to do. It also creates eddies and currents which reduce the chances of a Venturi effect occurring.
  • the mounting blocks 5 within the confinement arrangement 1 may act as fluid flow baffles, further reducing chances of formation of a Venturi effect dragging cool fluid in from the external environment .
  • the "fan" affect of the introduced fluid may spread out at any desired angle from the inlet 51a.
  • the fan may spread out so that the angle is approximately between 45° and 145° at the base of the fan. It may be between 55° and 130°, or 70° and 110°, or 85° and 95°.
  • the inlets may be placed mid-way between the top and the bottom and the inlet arranged so that fluid fans out over 360°.
  • Figure IA shows the underside view of a variation of the inlet. It comprises an outer washer 51b and an inner washer 51c which includes a cut-out in it 51d which causes the water from the inlet 51e to fan out at an angle.
  • the angle shown here may be varied, as discussed above.
  • the sides 2 of the confinement arrangement 1 are formed by a polymeric material skirt having a deformable "0" ring cross section (see Figures 3 and 4) .
  • the point of contact P ( Figure 2) with the surface in this embodiment forms a relatively low tension contact with the surface.
  • tension may be adjusted by releasing a bar 60 via screws 61 ( Figure 3 and Figure 4) to allow the cross section of the skirt to be reduced or increased.
  • a plurality of transverse slots 63 are provided in the skirt 2. The slots 63 receive the bodies of the screws 61 therethrough and adjustment is by moving the slots 63 transversely relative to the screw position to vary the size of the cross section of the skirt 2 and therefore the applied tension, and then tensioning the screws 61.
  • the tension of the seal may not be adjustable but may be preset.
  • the skirt cross section in this case may be a predetermined set size.
  • the skirt 2 is a simple, single membrane flexible skirt.
  • the skirt is a hollow type skirt similar to a car door type seal. This u 0" ring type seal may be useful providing an "aquaplane" effect as hot water escapes from this seal and also may reduce friction against the surface being treated. It also advantageously reduces or avoids marine growth being removed by the skirt as the skirt moves over the surface, which is not desirable as this would leave the marine growth in the vicinity (for example, it is undesirable to have marine growth removed from a ship in a harbour) .
  • FIG. 5 diagram An operation of apparatus 1 is illustrated in the Figure 5 diagram, the surface to be treated being the surface of a ship's hull 20.
  • the roller balls 6 contact the surface of the hull 20. Because of the multi-directionality of the roller balls 6, the apparatus 1 can be moved in any direction over the surface of the hull 20.
  • the magnets 41 attractive force retains the roller balls 6 and cover 42 against the surface 20.
  • the cover 42 encloses a volume adjacent a portion 21 of a surface of the ship's hull 20.
  • the flexible skirt 2 forms a flexible seal against the surface portion 21.
  • a hot water heater J on a service boat 22 supplies heated water via a flexible insulated hose K to inlet ports I .
  • hot water need not be provided from a service boat.
  • the heater may be mounted on the ship itself, or elsewhere.
  • Water is provided at a temperature of greater than 50°C and preferably greater than 60°C for a predetermined period in order to effectively kill any organic growth on the ship's hull 20 in the portion 21.
  • temperatures and rate of application may vary depending on environmental conditions. On an initial application, temperatures and rates of application of fluid may be varied until an ideal rate and temperature is selected.
  • the heated water heated by the heater J may be environmental water 23 pumped into the heater J.
  • the environmental water may be sea water, for example.
  • the apparatus 1 is moved over the surface.
  • Motion may be implemented by a diver pushing the cover 1 over the surface.
  • an automated arrangement may be implemented, such as a motive arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention (see later description) .
  • the water is an "open" system. That is, water is pumped by hose K and exhausted into the environment via the flexible skirt 2.
  • water may be provided in a closed system, where it is returned back to the heater J by a further hose .
  • One of the advantages of the arrangement 1 of this embodiment is that when it is moved over the surface of the ship's hull 20 after treating the organic growth, it does not significantly abrade the surface so that the organic growth, although dead, is substantially retained on the surface and is not dropped immediately into the surrounding environment.
  • the marine growth eventually sheds from the surface and into the environment, preferably when the ship is in the open sea, away from port.
  • rollers ball bearings or what ever rollers are used
  • This bacterial material will generally be killed within the volume of the apparatus 1 anyway.
  • the apparatus may be modified as illustrated in the following embodiment described with reference to Figures 6, 7 and 8.
  • the bearing supports 5 are positioned in a staggered formation relative to each other, to facilitate motion of the arrangement 1 along the surface. Note that this is one way only of staggering the rollers relative to each other and there may be many other patterns which could be implemented. Also, it will be appreciated that with this and other embodiments, the invention is not limited to eight bearing supports, but there could be any number.
  • the skirt 2 is of the same construction as the skirt 2 of the embodiment of Figures 1 through 4 and the tension of the contact of the skirt against the surface can be adjusted in the same manner.
  • a hot water hose 100 is provided for connection to a heated fluid supply, such as a heated fluid supply from a boiler on a support vessel.
  • the hose 100 may be insulated by way of an air jacket.
  • the hose 100 feeds pipes 101, 102 which, in turn, feed heated fluid through the anti-Venturi nozzles 51.
  • the tension of the skirt 2 against the surface is adjusted such that the seal between the skirt and the surface resists escape of fluid water from the volume confined by the confinement arrangement 1, but still allows for movement over the surface without substantially removing marine growth.
  • an exhaust arrangement 103 is provided, for exhausting the fluid and at the same time preventing or reducing the escape of marine growth.
  • the exhaust arrangement 103 comprises a perforated hose 104 which extends around the inner periphery of the confinement arrangement 1. Exhaust fluid perforates through the holes 105 in the hose 104 and is then transported along the passageway formed by the hose 104. End portions 106, 107 of the hose 104 extend through ports 108, 109 in the back 3 of the confinement arrangement 1. These hose lengths 106,107 have open ends 110, 111 from which exhaust fluid is ejected. All marine growth that is treated within the volume confined by the confinement arrangement 1, will generally be killed. By far the majority of the marine growth will remain adhered to the ship's hull until the ship gets underway. It therefore may then fall off in the open ocean, for example.
  • a fine mesh net or material 120 is fastened to the back 3 of the confinement arrangement 1. This catches any marine material which does escape from the confinement arrangement .
  • the mesh 120 may be attached to the back 3 of the arrangement 1 in a removable fashion e.g. by Velcro or some other type of fastener, so that it may be periodically replaced.
  • the mesh 120 allows water to escape but advantageously retains any marine growth. In the unlikely event that live marine growth escapes from the confined volume, the fluid within the hose 104, 106, 107 will operate to kill the marine growth as it travels along the hose 104.
  • the hose could be made longer e.g. by coiling the sections 106, 107 in order to further ensure that no live marine growth is exhausted.
  • the hose 104 exits at the bottom side of the mat 103 when the mat is being used (e.g. when the mat is being used on the surface of a ship it will generally be substantially vertical in orientation, corresponding to the hull orientation as the ship sits in the water) .
  • the end portions 106, 107 thus extend upwardly in use towards the ports 110, 111.
  • the fluid flowing in the hose lengths 106, 107 tends to form a convection heat pump, assisting in pulling fluid into the hose 104 via the perforations 105.
  • the length of the end portions 106, 107 can be extended in order to accentuate the heat pump effect.
  • the portions 106, 107 may be fastened to the back of the mat 1.
  • the exhaust arrangement 103 has holes 105 for drawing-in fluid from the volume 4.
  • the holes may be replaced by slits spaced along the hose 104.
  • a closed circulation system may " be applied.
  • fluid input to the volume may be ejected from the volume via a line at the back of the volume and returned to the fluid source.
  • a filter may be placed in the closed circulation system in order to remove marine material . 2.
  • the temperature of the fluid may be raised, for example, to 75° or 80°.
  • FIG. 9 The embodiment of Figures 9 to 11 function in a similar manner to previous embodiments, except that fluid that has been introduced into the volume 4 is subsequently returned to a suction reclamation pump and filtration system, which may be located elsewhere e.g. on a boat.
  • the exploded view of Figure 9 shows in detail how this embodiment of the present invention is constructed.
  • the back 3 of the cover is made up essentially of two parts. These include a backing plate 200 and a insulating backing material part 201, both of which are flexible to allow the apparatus to conform when it is moving over the surface to be treated.
  • a rubber retainer frame 202 is secured to the back 3 by screws 203, washers 204 and wing nuts 205.
  • the skirt 2 in this embodiment is formed by two vertical skirt portions 206 and 207, and two horizontal portions 208 and 209.
  • the skirt 2 has a hollow cross section, as described in preceding embodiments.
  • the skirt 2 is retained by skirt retainer frame 208 which has screw holes to receive the screws 203.
  • the bearing supports 5 comprise a magnet section 8a, retaining the magnet, a base plate 10 sealing the magnet, and a facing plate 11 which is mounted to the back. Roller bearings 6 are also provided. Fluid injectors 51 are mounted to the back 3 by a cam lock fitting 210 and retaining cap 211, and screws 212.
  • a support bar and cable arrangement 213 supports the apparatus 1 in use .
  • the exhaust arrangement 103 comprises a series of perforated pipes 104 which run within the volume 4. The perforations are in the form of slots (not shown) .
  • An outlet 220 from the hoses 104 is secured by a cam lock fitting 221 to a reclamation hose 222 (see Figure 12) .
  • FIG. 15 A further embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to Figures 15 to 20.
  • the same components as the embodiment of Figures 9 to 14 have been given the same reference numerals in Figures 15 to 20 and no further description will be given of these components.
  • This embodiment also reclaims heated fluid from the volume 4 via exhaust means 103, comprising hoses 104.
  • An outlet 250 (best shown in the detailed Figure 18) , feeds into a filtration trap 251.
  • the motive force for pulling the fluid into the outlet 250 in this embodiment is a Venturi effect created by injecting fluid via a Venturi injection point 252 which injects fluid into the outlet in the desired direction of flow.
  • Venturi tube 252 in this embodiment is approximately 3.5mm feeding into a 38mm diameter outlet 250 from the exhaust means 103.
  • a pump pushes approximately 22 litres per minute into the Venturi point 252 which causes a Venturi effect to draw out fluid form the volume 4 at about 37 litres per minute in this embodiment.
  • Some water escapes outside the skirts 2 (about 50 to 55 litres per minute is pumped into the volume 4 via the injectors 51) . In operation, this can be tuned to recover all of the 50 to 55 litres per minute or less of it, as required.
  • the fluid from the outlet 250 enters the trap 251 and is filtered by the fine gauze trap to remove any marine growth particles. It is likely that such particles would be dead anyway, because of the hot water treatment.
  • the trap 251 comprises a sediment filter basket 251 and a sediment filter bag of fine gauze 251a.
  • This apparatus provides a "low profile" of the volume 4, so that a low amount of fluid is consumed by the apparatus .
  • the apparatus includes a number of other components, including mainly the bearing supports 5.
  • these other components are mounted substantially externally of the cover 42 in use.
  • Each component 5, in this embodiment includes a bearing support in this example being a mounting block 5 mounting four ball bearings 6.
  • the ball bearings 6 are mounted within depressions 7 within the mounting block 5.
  • the ball bearings extend through the cover 42 and, in use, bear against the surface being treated.
  • the only components which extend within the space 4 on the underside of the cover 42 are the projecting parts of the ball bearings 6 which bear against the surface being treated.
  • the mounting block 5 also mounts a rare earth magnet 41, which operates to retain the apparatus against the surface to be treated, notwithstanding the orientation of the apparatus 1.
  • the distance between the magnet 41 and the surface can be adjusted via the mounting block 5 in order to vary the desired holding force.
  • the mounting block 5 comprises a polyethylene block body which is constructed by assembling a plurality of polythene sections 8 together into a block and securing them together via a screw or bolt 19 (as shown in Figure 23) .
  • Other suitable materials could be used for the block.
  • the use of polythene sections 8 enables flexibility of design of the embodiment. For example, if a larger magnet 41 is required, two or more magnet housing sections 8a may be used in the mounting block 5.
  • the magnet housing sections 8a include a cavity 8b to receive the magnet 41.
  • the distance between the magnet 41 and the surface to be treated may also be adjusted.
  • Plates 10 and 11 are provided at the base and the top, respectively, of the mounting block 5.
  • the base plate 10 may be selected to be a predetermined thickness in order to adjust the distance of the magnet 41 with respect to the surface being treated.
  • the base plate 10 is a 3mm thick aluminium plate.
  • a lmm or 2mm stainless steel plate may be used as a base plate 10, so that the magnet 41 is closer to the surface being treated.
  • mounting block 5 may not necessarily be an assembly of sections 8 as in this embodiment .
  • the mounting block 5 may be formed by moulding plastics incorporating the magnets and roller ball assemblies.
  • Mounting block 5 may be any suitable material, and is not limited to plastics.
  • the magnets be protected from the environment (e.g. a salt water environment) so as to avoid deterioration. Mounting the magnets in a mounting block, such as a mounting block of this embodiment, facilitates protection of the magnets 41.
  • a mounting block such as a mounting block of this embodiment
  • Figure 21 are a plurality of hot water inlets I, which in this embodiment are in the form of a holes in the cover 42.
  • heated fluid such as hot water
  • the side 2A is positioned towards the bottom of the apparatus when the apparatus is orientated vertically or substantially vertically in use. Heated fluid introduced into the inlets I, therefore has a natural tendency to migrate upwards into the confined volume.
  • the holes may be positioned in other areas of the cover 42.
  • the inlets I are positioned quite close to the flexible "skirt" which forms the sides of the cover 42. In some cases this may result in heated fluid escaping too early, and in an alternative embodiment, the inlets I may be placed further away from the skirt 42.
  • heated fluid may be introduced via inlets in the top part of the volume 4, as in previous embodiments, which cause fluid to fan out.
  • a motive arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in Figure 5 and is generally designated by reference numeral 50.
  • the motive arrangement includes a remote control vehicle 51, which in this example is a track vehicle which has tracks 52 and means 61 for securing the vehicle to a surface of any orientation e.g. vertical, and a winch arrangement 56.
  • the means for securing 61 are two powerful magnets 61 which are placed on the underside of the motive arrangement 50 (the top side of the motive arrangement 50 is represented in the drawings and the shaded areas 61 indicate where the magnets 61 are placed on the opposite, underside of the vehicle 51) .
  • the winch arrangement 56 mounts a single line 53 which supports a spreader bar 62, in turn mounting via a pair of lines 63, 64 attached to mounting blocks 5, an apparatus 1 for removing marine growth.
  • the apparatus 1 is in accordance with the embodiment described above in relation to Figures 1 to 4. " Remote controller 59 is connected via a cable 60 to operate the winch 56 and remote control vehicle 51. Note that the remote controller 59 may be wireless and therefore the cable 60 would not be required.
  • the remote control vehicle 51 can be moved across the surface and the winch 56 may be operated to raise and lower the apparatus 1 as the vehicle 51 moves across the surface . Movement of the apparatus 1 can therefore be controlled remotely.
  • the vehicle 51 is positioned above the water line 65. Equipment operated above water generally can be more reliable and cheaper (as it does not have to operate in salt water) . It would be possible, however, to have an embodiment of the vehicle 51 which did operate under water.
  • the apparatus 1 for removing marine growth may incorporate integral motive means, such as a motor and caterpillar tracks.
  • the motive arrangement may be driven by an electronic motor. In one embodiment, however, the motive arrangement is driven by compressed air generated by a compressed air motor.
  • the vehicle 51 may be moved via compressed air (i.e.
  • compressed air driving the compressed air motor driving the tracks 52) and the winch arrangement 56 may also be operated by compressed air.
  • the motive arrangement 50 may be used with other types of apparatus for treating marine growth, such as those described in the above-referenced PCT application by the present applicant and also the embodiments described below in this document.
  • Embodiments of the present invention have equal application to marine growth above and below the water line. For example, ships could be treated when they are in dry dock as well as when they are in water.
  • the magnets 41 are mounted in mounting blocks.
  • the roller balls 6 may be of magnetic material.
  • the magnets 41 may then be dispensed with.
  • the balls 6 may be coated with a material that resists corrosion so as to protect the magnets from degradation by seawater.
  • the material may be, for example, some form of plastics or rubber coating.
  • the mounting blocks 5 are arranged so that the rollers are in line as the apparatus 1 travels along the surface.
  • mounting blocks are slightly staggered relative to each other so that the rollers are not in line. This eases the motion of the apparatus along the surface and reduces the possibility of the apparatus getting stuck by a weld, or other defect, for example.
  • the apparatus 1 can be of any convenient size. It can be 1.5 x 1 metres, but may be any other size, larger or smaller, depending on application required.
  • water is heated by a separate boiler and introduced into the mat via an umbilical from the boiler.
  • the umbilical may be insulated in order to reduce energy loss. Insulation of the umbilical may be by way of an air jacket, running between a double membrane hose.
  • sea water may be used as the heated fluid. Fresh water may be used to heat copper tubing in the boiler containing the sea water to be heated.
  • the system is "open” in that the heated water is exited into the environment.
  • the system may be "closed", with a return umbilical to the boiler carrying exhausted fluid from the mat.
  • spacers such as plastic spacers, e.g. perspex spacers, may be mounted within the confinement volume in order to reduce the volume and therefore require less fluid.
  • the backing 3 may be covered with a layer of insulating material, such as neoprene, for example.
  • weights may be added to the arrangement e.g. metal plates, in order to adjust buoyancy as appropriate.
  • Slight negative buoyancy may be applied so that the confinement arrangement 1 is biased downwardly in the water.
  • Buoyancy may be varied by varying the number and/or size of weights.
  • a single skirt is mounted about the outside of the arrangement . More than one skirt could be mounted, for example, two skirts.
  • the temperature of the fluid and the amount of heat that the marine growth is exposed to is important.
  • the temperature is preferably above 50, preferably between 50 and 60. It may be higher if required.
  • Fluid consumption for a 1.5m x 1.2m arrangement such as shown in Figures 6 through 9 may be between 50 and 150 litres per minute, between 60 and 140 litres per minute, between 80 and 120 litres per minute, between 90 and 110 litres per minute.
  • the confinement arrangement may be of any suitable dimensions and is not limited to 1.5m x 1.2m.
  • treatment of marine growth is by introducing a heated fluid (for example heated water) into the volume confined by the apparatus .
  • a heated fluid for example heated water
  • the invention is not limited to using heated fluids.
  • a fluid containing a chemical which can be used to treat the marine growth may be used.
  • Such a fluid may not necessarily be heated.
  • the apparatus of all embodiments of the present invention may be used to introduce any fluid or substance for treatment of marine growth, whether heated or not.
  • the arrangement may be moved by way of the vehicle disclosed with reference to Figure 4. It may be moved in other ways, however. It may be moved by a diver, for example, or a different type of motive arrangement .
  • magnets are used to retain the arrangement against the surface being cleaned.
  • Other devices may be used.
  • water jets may be used to force the arrangement against the surface .
  • Water driven propellers may be used to force the arrangement against the surface . Any other appropriate arrangement may be used.
  • Embodiments of the present invention are not limited to application on ships hulls. They can be used for any surfaces which are subject to marine growth e.g. piers, oil rig pylons etc.

Landscapes

  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
  • Heat Treatment Of Water, Waste Water Or Sewage (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un appareil de traitement de contaminations d’origine marine sur une surface. L'appareil comprend un dispositif de confinement qui est configuré pour confiner un volume de fluide chauffé à proximité d’une partie de la surface à traiter, telle une coque de bateaux. Le fluide est introduit à l'intérieur du volume par le biais d'un orifice d'entrée à travers une paroi du dispositif de confinement. Afin de faciliter un chauffage régulier à travers le volume, l'orifice d'entrée est configuré de sorte que le fluide chauffé soit dirigé de manière dispersée.
PCT/AU2009/000575 2008-05-08 2009-05-08 Procédé et appareil améliorés pour traiter des contaminations d’origine marine sur une surface Ceased WO2009135267A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2008902256 2008-05-08
AU2008902256A AU2008902256A0 (en) 2008-05-08 Improved method and apparatus for treating marine growth on a surface
AU2008904456A AU2008904456A0 (en) 2008-08-28 Improved method and apparatus for treating marine growth on a surface
AU2008904456 2008-08-28

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2009135267A1 true WO2009135267A1 (fr) 2009-11-12

Family

ID=41264344

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/AU2009/000575 Ceased WO2009135267A1 (fr) 2008-05-08 2009-05-08 Procédé et appareil améliorés pour traiter des contaminations d’origine marine sur une surface

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2009135267A1 (fr)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20220055721A1 (en) * 2019-03-13 2022-02-24 Biofouling Technologies, Inc. Biofouling protective enclosures

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB1545232A (en) * 1975-10-20 1979-05-02 Larson R Device for surface treatment of objects having large surfaces eg ships cisterns or the like
FR2700240A1 (fr) * 1993-01-11 1994-07-13 Ivaldi Jean Procédé de destruction notamment d'algues marines telles que la Caulerpa Taxifolia, et installation pour la mise en Óoeuvre du procédé.
US5389266A (en) * 1993-03-25 1995-02-14 Dixstar, Inc. Method of removing zebra mussels from waterways and wetted surfaces
WO2000068070A1 (fr) * 1999-05-07 2000-11-16 Dennis Mason Procede et appareil permettant d'eliminer des organismes marins d'un substrat immerge
WO2005056382A1 (fr) * 2003-12-09 2005-06-23 Keith Johnson Procede et appareil de traitement d'une croissance marine sur une surface

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB1545232A (en) * 1975-10-20 1979-05-02 Larson R Device for surface treatment of objects having large surfaces eg ships cisterns or the like
FR2700240A1 (fr) * 1993-01-11 1994-07-13 Ivaldi Jean Procédé de destruction notamment d'algues marines telles que la Caulerpa Taxifolia, et installation pour la mise en Óoeuvre du procédé.
US5389266A (en) * 1993-03-25 1995-02-14 Dixstar, Inc. Method of removing zebra mussels from waterways and wetted surfaces
WO2000068070A1 (fr) * 1999-05-07 2000-11-16 Dennis Mason Procede et appareil permettant d'eliminer des organismes marins d'un substrat immerge
WO2005056382A1 (fr) * 2003-12-09 2005-06-23 Keith Johnson Procede et appareil de traitement d'une croissance marine sur une surface

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20220055721A1 (en) * 2019-03-13 2022-02-24 Biofouling Technologies, Inc. Biofouling protective enclosures

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
AU2010200420A1 (en) A method and apparatus for treating marine growth on a surface
KR20060136397A (ko) 표면 상의 해양 생물 부착물을 처리하는 방법 및 장치
US5465676A (en) Barnacle shield
CN114026019B (zh) 生物结垢保护
EP3531829A1 (fr) Ensemble pour effectuer une opération sur un filet
Morrisey et al. In-water cleaning technologies: review of information
CN117919795A (zh) 持久的生物结垢保护
US5327848A (en) Method and apparatus for keeping surfaces organism free
CA3114304C (fr) Dispositif de nettoyage de navires
AU2012258468A1 (en) A method and apparatus for treating marine growth on a surface
KR102776239B1 (ko) 해양쓰레기 전처리 시스템
US12031284B2 (en) Devices, systems, and methods for removing waste from bodies of water
KR200486145Y1 (ko) 수중 퇴적물 정화장치
KR102904498B1 (ko) 항만 부두용 부유 오물 처리설비 이를 사용한 항만 부두용 부유 오물 처리 방법
KR100288386B1 (ko) 수질오염방지를 위한 오일제거장치
AU2013216601A1 (en) A method and apparatus for treating marine growth on a surface
MXPA97007307A (en) Protection against the bullet
DE10110318A1 (de) Reinigungsvorrichtung zum Reinigen von Körpern, insbesondere von Boots- oder Schiffsrümpfen
JPH07170901A (ja) 海洋生物付着防止方法及びその装置

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 09741596

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

DPE1 Request for preliminary examination filed after expiration of 19th month from priority date (pct application filed from 20040101)
NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 09741596

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1