CA2531254C - Apparatus for supporting an object at a controllable depth within a body of water - Google Patents
Apparatus for supporting an object at a controllable depth within a body of water Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2531254C CA2531254C CA2531254A CA2531254A CA2531254C CA 2531254 C CA2531254 C CA 2531254C CA 2531254 A CA2531254 A CA 2531254A CA 2531254 A CA2531254 A CA 2531254A CA 2531254 C CA2531254 C CA 2531254C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- buoyant
- water
- control device
- submersible pump
- ballast
- 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.)
- Expired - Fee Related
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Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B22/00—Buoys
- B63B22/04—Fixations or other anchoring arrangements
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B22/00—Buoys
- B63B22/18—Buoys having means to control attitude or position, e.g. reaction surfaces or tether
- B63B22/20—Ballast means
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B22/00—Buoys
- B63B22/24—Buoys container type, i.e. having provision for the storage of material
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- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
- Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
- Structures Of Non-Positive Displacement Pumps (AREA)
Abstract
An apparatus for supporting an object at a controllable depth within a fluid features buoyant and ballast devices connected to a device for supporting the object. The opposing buoyant and gravitational forces acting on the support device cause it to maintain a generally constant orientation in the fluid and recover from deviations therefrom. The buoyant device has a variable buoyancy that can be controlled in order to control the depth at which the object is supported. A control device allows the user to raise, lower or maintain the vertical position of the object within the fluid.
Description
APPARATUS FOR SUPPORTING AN OBJECT AT A CONTROLLABLE DEPTH
WITHIN A BODY OF WATER
This invention relates to an apparatus for supporting an object within a fluid, and more specificaiiy an apparatus for supporting an object at a controllable depth in a fluid.
In some fields it is necessary to support an object wifhin a fluid in a generally stationary position for a period of time. For example, submersible pumps are often used for supplying lake water to cottages as an altemative to drilling a well.
t0 A pump is disposed in the lake at a sufficient depth to ensure that the pump will remain submersed and thus able to pump water from the lake to shore through a tubular passage. The pump is supported on the lake floor in an upright position so as to take in water at an inlet spaced upward from a bottom end of the pump.
It is known to provide a base of significant weight on which a pump is supported in an upright manner in order to prevent tipping over of the pump.
Should the pump tip over, the inlet may become at least partiaily blocked. While a weighted base may improve stability, it may not be enough to prevent tipping of the pump if exposed to a signfficant amount of force. In addition, removal of the pump from the lake for service, replacement or other purpose can be difficult and time consuming.
As a result, there is a demand for a product that is capable of maintaining a predetermined orientation of an object disposed within a fluid and simplifying the removal of the object from the fluid.
WITHIN A BODY OF WATER
This invention relates to an apparatus for supporting an object within a fluid, and more specificaiiy an apparatus for supporting an object at a controllable depth in a fluid.
In some fields it is necessary to support an object wifhin a fluid in a generally stationary position for a period of time. For example, submersible pumps are often used for supplying lake water to cottages as an altemative to drilling a well.
t0 A pump is disposed in the lake at a sufficient depth to ensure that the pump will remain submersed and thus able to pump water from the lake to shore through a tubular passage. The pump is supported on the lake floor in an upright position so as to take in water at an inlet spaced upward from a bottom end of the pump.
It is known to provide a base of significant weight on which a pump is supported in an upright manner in order to prevent tipping over of the pump.
Should the pump tip over, the inlet may become at least partiaily blocked. While a weighted base may improve stability, it may not be enough to prevent tipping of the pump if exposed to a signfficant amount of force. In addition, removal of the pump from the lake for service, replacement or other purpose can be difficult and time consuming.
As a result, there is a demand for a product that is capable of maintaining a predetermined orientation of an object disposed within a fluid and simplifying the removal of the object from the fluid.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for supporting an object at a controllable depth within a body of water, said apparatus comprising:
a buoyant device having variable buoyancy with respect to the liquid;
a control device connected to the buoyant device and operable to control the buoyancy thereof;
a ballast device having a density greater than the water; and a support device connected to the buoyant and ballast devices for supporting the object.
The buoyant device and ballast device exert forces on the support device in opposite directions, thereby tending to support the object in a predetermined orientation. By controlling the buoyancy of the buoyant device, the control device allows a user to control the depth at which the object is supported.
The object can be caused to float upward, sink downward or maintain a generally constant vertical position within the body of water.
The apparatus may be provided in combination with the object, wherein the object comprises a submersible pump for pumping water out of the body of water. In this case, the submersible pump is preferably operably connected to a power source located outside the body of water.
Used with a submersible pump, the apparatus prevents tipping of the pump from an upright orientation. The pump is sunk to a depth such that the ballast device rests on the lake floor and the buoyant device pulls upward on the support device such that the pump remains generally vertical. If subjected to forces that disrupt this orientation, the floating tendency of the buoyant member will return the pump to its original position. The pump can be easily removed from the water by increasing the buoyancy until it floats up to the surface of the lake.
Preferably the buoyant device comprises an expandable buoyant member and a fixed protective housing, the buoyant member providing the variable buoyancy of said buoyant device and being contained within the protective housing.
Preferably the protective housing has at least one opening therein through which water can pass into and out of said housing.
Preferably the at least one opening in the protective housing is covered w+th at least one screen to prevent entry of objects larger than holes in said at least one screen into said housing.
Preferably the protective housing is openable for access to the buoyant member contained therein.
Preferably the ballast device comprises a container to and from which material can be added and removed respectively to vary the density of the ballast device.
Preferably the support device comprises an enclosure member within which the object can be contained.
The enclosure member may have at least one opening therein through which water can pass into and out of said housing. In this case, preferably the at least one opening in the enclosure member is covered with at least one screen to prevent entry of objects larger than holes in said at least one screen into said housing.
Preferably the support device comprises an enclosure member within which the object can be contained, said enclosure member being openable for access to the object.
Preferably the buoyant device comprises an inflatable member and the control device comprises a mechanism for transferring gas to and from said inflatable member.
Preferably the control device further comprises a pressure gauge operably connected to the inflatable member for measuring gas pressure therein.
Preferably the control device further comprises a release valve operably connected to the inflatable member for releasing gas therefrom.
Preferably the control device further comprises a shut-off valve operably connected between the mechanism and the inflatable member for selectively blocking the transfer of gas.
Preferably the mechanism comprises an air pump.
Preferably an auxiliary valve is connected the inflatable member for selectively providing an additional passagewa y through which gas can exit said inflatable member.
Preferably at least a portion of the control device housed within an openable casing for protection.
Preferably the openable casing is lockable to prevent unauthorized access to the at least part of the control device housed therein.
Preferably the control device is remotely positioned with respect to the buoyant, ballast and support devices for operation for operation of said controi device from outside the body of water.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for supporting an object at a controllable depth within a body of water, said apparatus comprising:
a buoyant device having variable buoyancy with respect to the liquid;
a control device connected to the buoyant device and operable to control the buoyancy thereof;
a ballast device having a density greater than the water; and a support device connected to the buoyant and ballast devices for supporting the object.
The buoyant device and ballast device exert forces on the support device in opposite directions, thereby tending to support the object in a predetermined orientation. By controlling the buoyancy of the buoyant device, the control device allows a user to control the depth at which the object is supported.
The object can be caused to float upward, sink downward or maintain a generally constant vertical position within the body of water.
The apparatus may be provided in combination with the object, wherein the object comprises a submersible pump for pumping water out of the body of water. In this case, the submersible pump is preferably operably connected to a power source located outside the body of water.
Used with a submersible pump, the apparatus prevents tipping of the pump from an upright orientation. The pump is sunk to a depth such that the ballast device rests on the lake floor and the buoyant device pulls upward on the support device such that the pump remains generally vertical. If subjected to forces that disrupt this orientation, the floating tendency of the buoyant member will return the pump to its original position. The pump can be easily removed from the water by increasing the buoyancy until it floats up to the surface of the lake.
Preferably the buoyant device comprises an expandable buoyant member and a fixed protective housing, the buoyant member providing the variable buoyancy of said buoyant device and being contained within the protective housing.
Preferably the protective housing has at least one opening therein through which water can pass into and out of said housing.
Preferably the at least one opening in the protective housing is covered w+th at least one screen to prevent entry of objects larger than holes in said at least one screen into said housing.
Preferably the protective housing is openable for access to the buoyant member contained therein.
Preferably the ballast device comprises a container to and from which material can be added and removed respectively to vary the density of the ballast device.
Preferably the support device comprises an enclosure member within which the object can be contained.
The enclosure member may have at least one opening therein through which water can pass into and out of said housing. In this case, preferably the at least one opening in the enclosure member is covered with at least one screen to prevent entry of objects larger than holes in said at least one screen into said housing.
Preferably the support device comprises an enclosure member within which the object can be contained, said enclosure member being openable for access to the object.
Preferably the buoyant device comprises an inflatable member and the control device comprises a mechanism for transferring gas to and from said inflatable member.
Preferably the control device further comprises a pressure gauge operably connected to the inflatable member for measuring gas pressure therein.
Preferably the control device further comprises a release valve operably connected to the inflatable member for releasing gas therefrom.
Preferably the control device further comprises a shut-off valve operably connected between the mechanism and the inflatable member for selectively blocking the transfer of gas.
Preferably the mechanism comprises an air pump.
Preferably an auxiliary valve is connected the inflatable member for selectively providing an additional passagewa y through which gas can exit said inflatable member.
Preferably at least a portion of the control device housed within an openable casing for protection.
Preferably the openable casing is lockable to prevent unauthorized access to the at least part of the control device housed therein.
Preferably the control device is remotely positioned with respect to the buoyant, ballast and support devices for operation for operation of said controi device from outside the body of water.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
5 In the accompanying drawings, which illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the present invention:
Figure 1 is an elevational view of the apparatus with the buoyant, ballast and support devices disposed within a body of water and the control device disposed on shore.
Figure 2 is a close up elevational view of the buoyant device of Figure 1 with a lid thereof in a partially removed condition.
Figure 3 is a close up elevational view of the support device of Figure 1 with a cap thereof in an engaged condition.
Figure 4 is a close up elevational view of the ballast device of Figure 1 with a lid thereof in a partiaiiy removed condition.
Figure 5 is a top view of the control device of Figure 9 with a protective casing thereof in an open condition to show contents thereof.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Figure 1 shows an apparatus 10 featuring a buoyant device 12, a support device 14 and a ballast device 16 disposed within a body of water 2 and a control device 18 disposed on shore. The support device 14 is used to support an object within the body of water 2 and is connected to each of the buoyant and ballast devices 12 and 16. The ballast device 16 has a density greater than the water and thus tends to pull the support device 14 to the water body floor 6. The buoyant device 12 has variabie buoyancy that can be adjusted to control an upward force tending to pull the support device 14 to the top surface 8 of the water body 2. The opposing forces acting on the support device act to maintain a predetermined orientation thereof. The control device 18 is operably connected to the buoyant device in order to control the buoyancy thereof, and thus also control the depth at which the support device, and any object connected thereto, is disposed within the body of water.
The embodiment shown in the figures is used to support a submersible pump in a lake for pumping lake water to the shore for use on land. As shown in Figure 2, the buoyant devioe 12 features an expandable buoyant member 20 supported within a fixed protective housing 22. The buoyant member 20 is an inflatable rubber bladder to and from which air can be pumped and drawn respectively through air line 24 in order to control the buoyancy of the buoyant device 12. The air line 24 passes through a wall of the protective housing 22 in order to connect to the control device 18 remotely disposed with respect to the buoyant device 12. The air line can be made of nylon tubing or other eonduit known to those of skill in the art capable of preventing communication between air flowing through it and the surrounding water.
The protective housing 22 is openable by means of a removable lid 26 having a threaded base 28 for engaging a respective threaded portion of the housing 22. An transverse through hole 29 is provided in the lid 26 in order to define a handle for gripping of the lid in order to lift, lower, rotate and otherwise maneuver it.
Figure 1 is an elevational view of the apparatus with the buoyant, ballast and support devices disposed within a body of water and the control device disposed on shore.
Figure 2 is a close up elevational view of the buoyant device of Figure 1 with a lid thereof in a partially removed condition.
Figure 3 is a close up elevational view of the support device of Figure 1 with a cap thereof in an engaged condition.
Figure 4 is a close up elevational view of the ballast device of Figure 1 with a lid thereof in a partiaiiy removed condition.
Figure 5 is a top view of the control device of Figure 9 with a protective casing thereof in an open condition to show contents thereof.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Figure 1 shows an apparatus 10 featuring a buoyant device 12, a support device 14 and a ballast device 16 disposed within a body of water 2 and a control device 18 disposed on shore. The support device 14 is used to support an object within the body of water 2 and is connected to each of the buoyant and ballast devices 12 and 16. The ballast device 16 has a density greater than the water and thus tends to pull the support device 14 to the water body floor 6. The buoyant device 12 has variabie buoyancy that can be adjusted to control an upward force tending to pull the support device 14 to the top surface 8 of the water body 2. The opposing forces acting on the support device act to maintain a predetermined orientation thereof. The control device 18 is operably connected to the buoyant device in order to control the buoyancy thereof, and thus also control the depth at which the support device, and any object connected thereto, is disposed within the body of water.
The embodiment shown in the figures is used to support a submersible pump in a lake for pumping lake water to the shore for use on land. As shown in Figure 2, the buoyant devioe 12 features an expandable buoyant member 20 supported within a fixed protective housing 22. The buoyant member 20 is an inflatable rubber bladder to and from which air can be pumped and drawn respectively through air line 24 in order to control the buoyancy of the buoyant device 12. The air line 24 passes through a wall of the protective housing 22 in order to connect to the control device 18 remotely disposed with respect to the buoyant device 12. The air line can be made of nylon tubing or other eonduit known to those of skill in the art capable of preventing communication between air flowing through it and the surrounding water.
The protective housing 22 is openable by means of a removable lid 26 having a threaded base 28 for engaging a respective threaded portion of the housing 22. An transverse through hole 29 is provided in the lid 26 in order to define a handle for gripping of the lid in order to lift, lower, rotate and otherwise maneuver it.
When engaged to one another, the lid 26 and the housing 22 define a substantially enclosed space in which the buoyant member 20 is protected from damage that could possibly lead to leakage. An auxiliary valve 30 is supported on the housing 22 and connected to the buoyant member 20 by a shorter air line 32 In order to provide a passageway for air in close proximity to the buoyant member. A T-connector allows connection of each air line to the buoyant member 20 at a single location, thereby reducing the points at which air leakage may develop. Openings 36 are provided in the housing so that water can flow in and out to fill the variable amount of space defined between the housing 22 and the inflatable buoyant member 20 as it is inflated and deflated. The openings 36 may be screened off to prevent the entry of objects, debris or life forms larger than the openings of a suitable screening material that may damage the expandable buoyant member 20.
As shown in Figure 3, the support device includes an enclosure member 40 having a removable cap 42. The enclosure member 40 is sized to receive a submersible pump therein. An outlet coupling 46 passes through an opening provided in the cap 42 to operably connect an outlet of the submersible pump 44 contained within the enclosure 40 to a T joint 50 disposed thereabove.
The outiet coupling 46 is attached to the cap 42 so as to also support and locate the pump 44 within the enclosure member 40 when the cap is removably engaged thereon. At an end 52 opposi#e the outlet coupling 46, the T joint 50 is attached to a support coupling 54 which connects to the housing 22 of the buoyant device 12.
The end 52 of the outlet coupling 46 is dosed, so that water pumped from the outlet 48 of the pump 44 does not flow upward through the support coupling 54 toward the buoyant device 12. A outlet portion 56 of the T-joint is open and communicates with water line 57 that runs through the body of water to the shore such that water supplied from the outlet of the pump 44 will flow through the line 57 for use on land.
A power supply opening 58 is provided in the enclosure through which power line 59 passes to operably connect the pump 44 to a remotely disposed power source on land.
Openings 60 and 62 are provided near the center and bottom of the enciosure member 40 respectively in order to allow the entry of water therein to supply the pump 44. The upper openings 60 are located a height generally equal to an inlet 64 of the pump 44 and are screened off in order to prevent entry of objects or life forms that may damage the pump should they reach the inlet 64. Lower openings 62 are circumferentially disposed about the enclosure member 40 and covered by a single cylindrical screen 66 to further protect the pump 44. An eyebolt 68 is provided at the bottom of the enclosure member 40 to facilitate connection thereof to the ballast member 16.
As shown In Figure 4, the ballast device 16 features a container 70 having the same form as the protective housing 22 of the buoyant device in order to save on manufacturing costs. Just like the housing, the container 70 features a removable lid 72 having a threaded portion 74 for engaging a mating portion of the container 70 and a transverse through hole 76 defining a handle in the lid. An access portion 78 of a wall of the container 70 is pivotally mounted by a hinge 80 for movement between open and ciosed positions in which access to the interior of the container is allowed and blocked respectively. Latches 82 are provided to selectivety secure the door-like access portion 78 in the ciosed position.
Material having a greater density than water is added to the container to act as ballast for weighing down the support device 14. As such, the weight and density of the container can be contro8ed by the type and amount of material contained therein.
The access portion 78 allows materiai to be added or removed without having to remove the lid 72. An eyebott 84 is provided atop the lid 72 to facilitate connection to that of the support device 14 by means of a flexible connection member 86, such as but limited to a cable or chain. The flexibility of the connection member ensures that the support and buoyant devices will return to their original positions axially aligned with the ballast device. If the connecfion was rigid and the devices were tipped to the extent that the ballast reached the water body floor 6, the buoyancy of the buoyant device may not be strong enough to return the support device to an upright orientation, Openings 88 allow water to flow into and out of the container 70 so that spaoe therein not having ballast material may be filled and drained of water.
As shown in Figure 5, the control device 18 of the apparatus is connected to an end of the air line 24 opposite the buoyant device 12. A
supply mechanism 90 for transferring gas to the inflatable buoyant member 20 is provided in the form of a conventional hand operated air pump. Between the source mechanism 90 and the air line 24 are connected a series of devices for controlling the flow of air between the mechanism and the buoyant member 20. A shut-off valve 92 allows the passage of air between the mechanism 90 and air line 24 to be selectively blocked to maintain air pressure in the air line 24 and buoyant member 20. A release valve 94 allows air in the line 24 and buoyant member 20 to be drained out into the surrounding environment. A pressure gauge 96 measures the air pressure in the line 24 and buoyant member 20 to provide a precise level of control over the buoyancy of the buoyant member 20. The air line 24 is attached to 5 the gauge 96 by a fdng 98 and the release valve 94 is connected between the gauge and shut-off valve 92 by couplings 100. A source line 102 connects the supply mechanism 90 to the shut-off valve 92.
A casing 104 of the control device 18 features mating top and bottom halves 106 and 108 pivotally connected along adjacent sides thereof for motion 10 between closed and open conditions. In the closed condition, the halves define an enclosed space in which the mechanism, valves and gauge are contained. In the open condition, these components are aocessible to a user. Mounting elements support the valves and gauge in an interior of the bottom half 108 of the casing. A
releasable mounting element 112 removably supports the gas transfer mechanism 90 on the top half 106 of the casing to provide room for its operation wfth the casing 104 in the open condition. Releasable latches 114 are provided to secure the casing 104 in the closed condition in which the two halves mate to form a water tight seal in order to protect the components inside from water damage. The air line 24 passes through the bottom half 108 of the casing in a sealed manner for connection to the gauge 96 such that water cannot enter around the tubular line. The latches 114 are of a conventional locking type such that the casing 104 can be locked in the closed condition such that a user can prevent access to the components within by others.
As shown in Figure 3, the support device includes an enclosure member 40 having a removable cap 42. The enclosure member 40 is sized to receive a submersible pump therein. An outlet coupling 46 passes through an opening provided in the cap 42 to operably connect an outlet of the submersible pump 44 contained within the enclosure 40 to a T joint 50 disposed thereabove.
The outiet coupling 46 is attached to the cap 42 so as to also support and locate the pump 44 within the enclosure member 40 when the cap is removably engaged thereon. At an end 52 opposi#e the outlet coupling 46, the T joint 50 is attached to a support coupling 54 which connects to the housing 22 of the buoyant device 12.
The end 52 of the outlet coupling 46 is dosed, so that water pumped from the outlet 48 of the pump 44 does not flow upward through the support coupling 54 toward the buoyant device 12. A outlet portion 56 of the T-joint is open and communicates with water line 57 that runs through the body of water to the shore such that water supplied from the outlet of the pump 44 will flow through the line 57 for use on land.
A power supply opening 58 is provided in the enclosure through which power line 59 passes to operably connect the pump 44 to a remotely disposed power source on land.
Openings 60 and 62 are provided near the center and bottom of the enciosure member 40 respectively in order to allow the entry of water therein to supply the pump 44. The upper openings 60 are located a height generally equal to an inlet 64 of the pump 44 and are screened off in order to prevent entry of objects or life forms that may damage the pump should they reach the inlet 64. Lower openings 62 are circumferentially disposed about the enclosure member 40 and covered by a single cylindrical screen 66 to further protect the pump 44. An eyebolt 68 is provided at the bottom of the enclosure member 40 to facilitate connection thereof to the ballast member 16.
As shown In Figure 4, the ballast device 16 features a container 70 having the same form as the protective housing 22 of the buoyant device in order to save on manufacturing costs. Just like the housing, the container 70 features a removable lid 72 having a threaded portion 74 for engaging a mating portion of the container 70 and a transverse through hole 76 defining a handle in the lid. An access portion 78 of a wall of the container 70 is pivotally mounted by a hinge 80 for movement between open and ciosed positions in which access to the interior of the container is allowed and blocked respectively. Latches 82 are provided to selectivety secure the door-like access portion 78 in the ciosed position.
Material having a greater density than water is added to the container to act as ballast for weighing down the support device 14. As such, the weight and density of the container can be contro8ed by the type and amount of material contained therein.
The access portion 78 allows materiai to be added or removed without having to remove the lid 72. An eyebott 84 is provided atop the lid 72 to facilitate connection to that of the support device 14 by means of a flexible connection member 86, such as but limited to a cable or chain. The flexibility of the connection member ensures that the support and buoyant devices will return to their original positions axially aligned with the ballast device. If the connecfion was rigid and the devices were tipped to the extent that the ballast reached the water body floor 6, the buoyancy of the buoyant device may not be strong enough to return the support device to an upright orientation, Openings 88 allow water to flow into and out of the container 70 so that spaoe therein not having ballast material may be filled and drained of water.
As shown in Figure 5, the control device 18 of the apparatus is connected to an end of the air line 24 opposite the buoyant device 12. A
supply mechanism 90 for transferring gas to the inflatable buoyant member 20 is provided in the form of a conventional hand operated air pump. Between the source mechanism 90 and the air line 24 are connected a series of devices for controlling the flow of air between the mechanism and the buoyant member 20. A shut-off valve 92 allows the passage of air between the mechanism 90 and air line 24 to be selectively blocked to maintain air pressure in the air line 24 and buoyant member 20. A release valve 94 allows air in the line 24 and buoyant member 20 to be drained out into the surrounding environment. A pressure gauge 96 measures the air pressure in the line 24 and buoyant member 20 to provide a precise level of control over the buoyancy of the buoyant member 20. The air line 24 is attached to 5 the gauge 96 by a fdng 98 and the release valve 94 is connected between the gauge and shut-off valve 92 by couplings 100. A source line 102 connects the supply mechanism 90 to the shut-off valve 92.
A casing 104 of the control device 18 features mating top and bottom halves 106 and 108 pivotally connected along adjacent sides thereof for motion 10 between closed and open conditions. In the closed condition, the halves define an enclosed space in which the mechanism, valves and gauge are contained. In the open condition, these components are aocessible to a user. Mounting elements support the valves and gauge in an interior of the bottom half 108 of the casing. A
releasable mounting element 112 removably supports the gas transfer mechanism 90 on the top half 106 of the casing to provide room for its operation wfth the casing 104 in the open condition. Releasable latches 114 are provided to secure the casing 104 in the closed condition in which the two halves mate to form a water tight seal in order to protect the components inside from water damage. The air line 24 passes through the bottom half 108 of the casing in a sealed manner for connection to the gauge 96 such that water cannot enter around the tubular line. The latches 114 are of a conventional locking type such that the casing 104 can be locked in the closed condition such that a user can prevent access to the components within by others.
The use of the apparatus, in the exemplary context of supporting a submersible pump near the bottom of a body of water far the purpose af pumping some of the water to shore, will now be explained. The pump 44 is installed on the cap 42 of the enclosure member 40 by operably connecting the output coupling mounted on the cap to the outlet 48 of the pump 44. The power line 59 is passed through the power supply opening 58 and operably connected to the pump 44 in order to later supply power thereto. The cap 42 is then removably engaged to the enclosure member 40 such that the pump is protectively supported therein.
Water line 57 is connected to the outlet portion 56 of the Tqoint for later receiving water from the pump 44 once activated. The inflatable buoyant member 20 is connected to air line 24 and auxiliary valve 30 and placed within the protective housing 22. The lid 26 is removably engaged to the housing 22 to enclose the buoyant member therein. The container 70 is at least partially filled with ballast material to provide a density greater than that of the body of water and then closed by removable lid 72 and openable access portion 78.
With ends of the lines somehow anchored on shore, the buoyant, support and ballast devices are taken out on the water in a boat a desired distance from shore. The buoyant member 20 is inflated by means of the auxiliary valve and the buoyant device 12 is connected to the support device 14 by means of attaching the support coupling 54 between the protective housing 22 and the T-joint 50. Once these components are connected, the buoyancy of the buoyant member can be tested and adjusted to ensure that it can overcome any sinking tendency of the enclosure member 40 and pump 44 contained therein. The ballast and support devices are then connected by means of eyebolts 68 and 84 and connection member 86. The devices are all then lowered into the body of water. Should the devices tend to float, the buoyancy of the buoyant member 20 may be decreased by means of deflating through the auxiliary valve 30 until the components begin sinking.
Once the ballast device 16 reaches the floor of the body of water, the buoyancy of the buoyant device 12 wi!l pull upward on the support device to maintain it in an upright orientation as shown in Figure 1. This arrangement avoids contact between the pump supporting device 14 and the water body floor, whereas tipping over of a pump may occur with the use of a weighted base alone, causing material from the floor to block intake to the pump. With the underwater devices in place, the installer can return to shore and connect the air line 24 to the control device 18 to allow control of the buoyancy from shore. The water line 57 is connected to a suitable destinarion to which water is to be supplied. Finally, the power line 59 can be connected to an appropriate power source to activate the pump 44 and start the flow of water to land. Portions of the air, water and power lines may be bound together, so long as the air and water lines are not ovedy compressed so as to block or restrict flow therethrough, so that they may lie along a single path between the underwater devices and the shore.
Should maintenance or removal of the underwater devices become necessary, the buoyancy of the buoyant member 20 can be increased through the control device by pumping in additional air through the mechanism 90 and then closing the shut-off valve 92 to keep the air in the air line 24 and buoyant member 20. Once sufficient buoyancy is reached to overcome weight of the underwater components, the devices wiii float to the water body's surface for easy removai. The devices can even be removed in winter conditions. The control device 18 can be used to float the underwater devices up toward a frozen surface of the water body.
The devices can then be detected under the ice so that a hole can cut therethrough for access to the devices. For example, including metal components on the devices would allow detection beneath the ice by means of a metal detector.
It should be appreciated that the apparatus may be employed through an aitemative installation process having a different steps and/or order thereof. The buoyant member can be inflated or deflated through either of the control device 18 or the auxiliary valve 30. The control device 18 may be taken out on the boat for use during installation. In such a case, the lines would be laid in the body of water during the return to shore. The order of the steps in which the underwater devices are filled and connected can also be varied. It should be appreciated that the overall result is an apparatus that prevents tipping of the pump 44 and resuiting detrimentai effects to its perfomnance and provides easy recovery of the pump 44 from the water body floor through means of an on shore control device.
In the case of supporting a submersible pump, for example for providing water from a lake to a cottage for use therein, the pump is typically disposed approximateiy 50 feet from the shore or at a distance where the lake is approximately 10 feet deep. This provides adequate depth to prevent ice from forming about the underwater devices in winter, for example 6 feet of water disposed below 4 feet of ice. The lines must be of sufficient tength to reach desired destinations on land from the point at which the underwater devices are disposed.
Water line 57 is connected to the outlet portion 56 of the Tqoint for later receiving water from the pump 44 once activated. The inflatable buoyant member 20 is connected to air line 24 and auxiliary valve 30 and placed within the protective housing 22. The lid 26 is removably engaged to the housing 22 to enclose the buoyant member therein. The container 70 is at least partially filled with ballast material to provide a density greater than that of the body of water and then closed by removable lid 72 and openable access portion 78.
With ends of the lines somehow anchored on shore, the buoyant, support and ballast devices are taken out on the water in a boat a desired distance from shore. The buoyant member 20 is inflated by means of the auxiliary valve and the buoyant device 12 is connected to the support device 14 by means of attaching the support coupling 54 between the protective housing 22 and the T-joint 50. Once these components are connected, the buoyancy of the buoyant member can be tested and adjusted to ensure that it can overcome any sinking tendency of the enclosure member 40 and pump 44 contained therein. The ballast and support devices are then connected by means of eyebolts 68 and 84 and connection member 86. The devices are all then lowered into the body of water. Should the devices tend to float, the buoyancy of the buoyant member 20 may be decreased by means of deflating through the auxiliary valve 30 until the components begin sinking.
Once the ballast device 16 reaches the floor of the body of water, the buoyancy of the buoyant device 12 wi!l pull upward on the support device to maintain it in an upright orientation as shown in Figure 1. This arrangement avoids contact between the pump supporting device 14 and the water body floor, whereas tipping over of a pump may occur with the use of a weighted base alone, causing material from the floor to block intake to the pump. With the underwater devices in place, the installer can return to shore and connect the air line 24 to the control device 18 to allow control of the buoyancy from shore. The water line 57 is connected to a suitable destinarion to which water is to be supplied. Finally, the power line 59 can be connected to an appropriate power source to activate the pump 44 and start the flow of water to land. Portions of the air, water and power lines may be bound together, so long as the air and water lines are not ovedy compressed so as to block or restrict flow therethrough, so that they may lie along a single path between the underwater devices and the shore.
Should maintenance or removal of the underwater devices become necessary, the buoyancy of the buoyant member 20 can be increased through the control device by pumping in additional air through the mechanism 90 and then closing the shut-off valve 92 to keep the air in the air line 24 and buoyant member 20. Once sufficient buoyancy is reached to overcome weight of the underwater components, the devices wiii float to the water body's surface for easy removai. The devices can even be removed in winter conditions. The control device 18 can be used to float the underwater devices up toward a frozen surface of the water body.
The devices can then be detected under the ice so that a hole can cut therethrough for access to the devices. For example, including metal components on the devices would allow detection beneath the ice by means of a metal detector.
It should be appreciated that the apparatus may be employed through an aitemative installation process having a different steps and/or order thereof. The buoyant member can be inflated or deflated through either of the control device 18 or the auxiliary valve 30. The control device 18 may be taken out on the boat for use during installation. In such a case, the lines would be laid in the body of water during the return to shore. The order of the steps in which the underwater devices are filled and connected can also be varied. It should be appreciated that the overall result is an apparatus that prevents tipping of the pump 44 and resuiting detrimentai effects to its perfomnance and provides easy recovery of the pump 44 from the water body floor through means of an on shore control device.
In the case of supporting a submersible pump, for example for providing water from a lake to a cottage for use therein, the pump is typically disposed approximateiy 50 feet from the shore or at a distance where the lake is approximately 10 feet deep. This provides adequate depth to prevent ice from forming about the underwater devices in winter, for example 6 feet of water disposed below 4 feet of ice. The lines must be of sufficient tength to reach desired destinations on land from the point at which the underwater devices are disposed.
For exampie, in the case where the pump is disposed 50 feet from shore, it may be desirable to provide up to 100 feet of air line for connection of the control and buoyant devices. Any one of the lines may or may not be provided with the other components of the invention. For example, the present invention may be sold as a product for use with submersible pumps already in use. In such a case, the buyer would likely already have a power and water line that could be used in combination with the product.
It should be appreciated that the apparatus of the present invention may be used or adapted for supporting objects other than submersible pumps within a fluid. Furthermore, the apparatus may be used to at depths other than at the bottom of a fluid body. Balancing buoyant and gravitational forces allows the depth at which the object is supported to be maintained. The controllable variabie buoyancy provides control over the depth at which the object is supported by allowing upward and downward movement.
Adaptations to the present invention may be readily applied by those of skill in the art. The hand operated air pump of the control device can be replaced with aitemative mechanisms for controlling air distribution and pressure. For example, the control device may be adapted for connection to a conventional powered air compressor or may feature a closed system in which the distribution of a fixed mass of air between the buoyant member and an alternate mechanism can be controlled. The connection member 86 for connecting the support and ballast members may adjustable in length to control the spaced relationship of the two and may feature quick release mechanisms for easy detachment from each device. It should be appreciated that while shown and described as using rigid couplings to connect the support and buoyant devices, these two components may be connected by a flexible either separate from or connected to the outlet coupling from the pump.
In the detailed embodiment, the housing 22, enclosure member 40, container 70 and 5 casing 104 for protecting their respective contents are made a plastic material in order to resist water damage. It should be appreciated that variQus specific materials known to those of skill in the art may be applied to the present invention.
Since various modifications can be made in my invention as herein above desoribed, and many apparently widely different embodiments of same made 10 within the spirit and scope of the claims without department from such spirit and scope, it is intended that all matter eontained in the accompanying specification shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not in a limiting sense.
It should be appreciated that the apparatus of the present invention may be used or adapted for supporting objects other than submersible pumps within a fluid. Furthermore, the apparatus may be used to at depths other than at the bottom of a fluid body. Balancing buoyant and gravitational forces allows the depth at which the object is supported to be maintained. The controllable variabie buoyancy provides control over the depth at which the object is supported by allowing upward and downward movement.
Adaptations to the present invention may be readily applied by those of skill in the art. The hand operated air pump of the control device can be replaced with aitemative mechanisms for controlling air distribution and pressure. For example, the control device may be adapted for connection to a conventional powered air compressor or may feature a closed system in which the distribution of a fixed mass of air between the buoyant member and an alternate mechanism can be controlled. The connection member 86 for connecting the support and ballast members may adjustable in length to control the spaced relationship of the two and may feature quick release mechanisms for easy detachment from each device. It should be appreciated that while shown and described as using rigid couplings to connect the support and buoyant devices, these two components may be connected by a flexible either separate from or connected to the outlet coupling from the pump.
In the detailed embodiment, the housing 22, enclosure member 40, container 70 and 5 casing 104 for protecting their respective contents are made a plastic material in order to resist water damage. It should be appreciated that variQus specific materials known to those of skill in the art may be applied to the present invention.
Since various modifications can be made in my invention as herein above desoribed, and many apparently widely different embodiments of same made 10 within the spirit and scope of the claims without department from such spirit and scope, it is intended that all matter eontained in the accompanying specification shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not in a limiting sense.
Claims (20)
1. An apparatus in combination with a submersible pump in which the submersible pump is arranged to be located in a body of water for pumping water out of the body of water and in which the apparatus is arranged for supporting the submersible pump at a controllable depth within the body of water, said apparatus comprising:
a buoyant device having variable buoyancy with respect to the body of water;
a control device connected to the buoyant device and operable to control the buoyancy thereof;
a ballast device having a density greater than the body of water; and a support device connected to the buoyant and ballast devices for supporting the submersible pump.
a buoyant device having variable buoyancy with respect to the body of water;
a control device connected to the buoyant device and operable to control the buoyancy thereof;
a ballast device having a density greater than the body of water; and a support device connected to the buoyant and ballast devices for supporting the submersible pump.
2. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein is the submersible pump is arranged to be operably connected to a power source located outside the body of water.
3. The apparatus according to either one of claims 1 or 2 wherein the buoyant device comprises an expandable buoyant member and a fixed protective housing, the buoyant member providing the variable buoyancy of said buoyant device and being contained within the protective housing.
4. The apparatus according to claim 3 wherein the protective housing has at least one opening therein through which water can pass into and out of said housing.
5. The apparatus according to claim 4 wherein the at least one opening in the protective housing is covered with at least one screen to prevent entry of objects larger than holes in said at least one screen into said housing.
6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 5 wherein the protective housing is openable for access to the buoyant member contained therein.
7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein the ballast device comprises a container to and from which material can be added and removed respectively to vary the density of the ballast device.
8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein the support device comprises an enclosure member within which the submersible pump can be contained.
9. The apparatus according to claim 8 wherein the enclosure member has at least one opening therein through which water can pass into and out of said housing.
10. The apparatus according to claim 9 wherein the at least one opening in the enclosure member is covered with at least one screen to prevent entry of objects larger than holes in said at least one screen into said housing.
11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 10 wherein the support device comprises an enclosure member within which the submersible pump can be contained, said enclosure member being openable for access to the submersible pump.
12. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11 wherein the buoyant device comprises an inflatable member and the control device comprises a mechanism for transferring gas to and from said inflatable member.
13. The apparatus according to claim 12 wherein the control device further comprises a pressure gauge operably connected to the inflatable member for measuring gas pressure therein.
14. The apparatus according to claim 12 or 13 wherein the control device further comprises a release valve operably connected to the inflatable member for releasing gas therefrom.
15. The apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 14 wherein the control device further comprises a shut-off valve operably connected between the mechanism and the inflatable member for selectively blocking the transfer of gas.
16. The apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 15 wherein the mechanism comprises an air pump.
17. The apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 16 wherein an auxiliary valve is connected the inflatable member for selectively providing an additional passageway through which gas can exit said inflatable member.
18. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 17 wherein at least a portion of the control device housed within an openable casing for protection.
19. The apparatus according to claim 18 wherein the openable casing is lockable to prevent unauthorized access to at least part of the control device housed therein.
20. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 19 wherein the control device is remotely positioned with respect to the buoyant, ballast and support devices for operation of said control device from outside the body of water.
Priority Applications (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2531254A CA2531254C (en) | 2005-12-09 | 2005-12-09 | Apparatus for supporting an object at a controllable depth within a body of water |
| US11/528,502 US20070135003A1 (en) | 2005-12-09 | 2006-09-28 | Apparatus for supporting an object at a controllable depth within a body of water |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2531254A CA2531254C (en) | 2005-12-09 | 2005-12-09 | Apparatus for supporting an object at a controllable depth within a body of water |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2531254A1 CA2531254A1 (en) | 2007-06-09 |
| CA2531254C true CA2531254C (en) | 2012-12-04 |
Family
ID=38121203
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2531254A Expired - Fee Related CA2531254C (en) | 2005-12-09 | 2005-12-09 | Apparatus for supporting an object at a controllable depth within a body of water |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US20070135003A1 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2531254C (en) |
Families Citing this family (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US8696247B2 (en) * | 2005-08-30 | 2014-04-15 | Kellogg Brown & Root Llc | Systems and methods for controlling risers |
| US20080260557A1 (en) * | 2007-04-23 | 2008-10-23 | Austin Timothy L | Floating pump for irrigation and other applications |
| GB0823219D0 (en) * | 2008-12-19 | 2009-01-28 | Aubin Ltd | Method |
| CN108298051B (en) * | 2018-04-09 | 2023-06-16 | 西南石油大学 | Kangda effect propulsion system and underwater robot |
| CN113277049B (en) * | 2021-06-25 | 2022-09-23 | 贵州大学明德学院 | Multifunctional bionic robot fish for water quality monitoring |
Family Cites Families (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US2923954A (en) * | 1960-02-09 | babcock | ||
| GB1505728A (en) * | 1975-06-25 | 1978-03-30 | Lee Marine Inc | Marine anchor buoy |
| US4266500A (en) * | 1979-09-24 | 1981-05-12 | Bunker Ramo Corporation | Hover control system for a submersible buoy |
| DE4241445C2 (en) * | 1992-12-09 | 1996-07-18 | Georg Fuereder | Naval warfare device |
| US5348501A (en) * | 1993-01-22 | 1994-09-20 | Brown Steven J | Compact retrievable marker buoy |
-
2005
- 2005-12-09 CA CA2531254A patent/CA2531254C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2006
- 2006-09-28 US US11/528,502 patent/US20070135003A1/en not_active Abandoned
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| US20070135003A1 (en) | 2007-06-14 |
| CA2531254A1 (en) | 2007-06-09 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |
Effective date: 20210831 |
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| MKLA | Lapsed |
Effective date: 20191209 |