DE19512279C2 - Self-floating swiveling skimmer - Google Patents

Abstract

A floating skimmer (3) which takes up the surface layer of a liquid medium in which it is floating has floats (12) and an outflow to discharge the medium taken up. In order to provide a simply constructed, automatically operating skimmer, a skimming trough (11) to take up the skimmed medium is fitted between at least two floats (12) at a fixed distance from each other to pivot through a limited angle about a spindle (14) between the floats (12).

Description

The invention relates to a self-floating Ab scoop by a liquid medium in which it swims, picks up the upper class, with assigned swimmers and with a drain for the removal of the recorded Medium.

There are non-floating and self-floating ab scoops. A non-floating skimmer for Discharge of floating materials is for example from DE 86 32 638 U1 known. This includes a gutter that in a sedimentation tank, separator swiveling is permanently installed. So this drainage channel is not buoyant and therefore has no swimmers. On Because of the geometrical construction of the drainage channel these can only be installed stationary in a container that allows only very small liquid level fluctuations. In addition comes that the drainage channel does not change constantly Can adjust liquid level. In addition, the Adjustment of the immersion depth of the overflow edge of the drainage channel only changed by adjustable additional weights will.  

Self-floating skimmers are also well known. A skimmer 150 also referred to as a skimmer according to FIGS. 18 and 19 has a central tube 151 into which liquid 152 located above the tube 151 flows. The tube 151 is surrounded by a flange 153 , in which it is held by clamping screws 154 . Floats 156 connected to struts 155 are also located on flange 153 . At least three floats 156 are required to stabilize the safe swimming position. If the clamping screws 154 are not tightened correctly or due to corrosion, the pipe 151 comes loose from the flange 153 and sinks. This removes liquid that is present at depth and not the medium floating on the surface. In addition, solids deposited on the floor can be absorbed, which leads to contamination of the entire device or even destruction of device parts. The receiving cross section is only the cross section of the tube 151 . It is therefore relatively small and it therefore takes a very long time for the medium floating on the surface to be absorbed. A faster absorption is achieved if the cross section of the tube and the distance of the tube 151 from the liquid level is increased. However, too much unwanted liquid is taken up and the drain hoses 157 become too thick, as a result of which the skimmer 150 no longer floats. To prevent this, the floats 156 would again have to be enlarged. However, the skimmer 150 would be too large overall.

Another self-floating device for removing on floating on the water surface of a swimming pool Dirt is known from DE-AS 12 82 289, to a certain extent represents a float-controlled folding weir because of  the presence of the float automatically skimmers always adapts to the liquid level. The float controlled Folding weir or shut-off device is, however, part of one non-swiveling container through which the inflow of the ab absorbent medium is regulated.

The invention has for its object a self-floating To create a skimmer of the type mentioned at the beginning, with which, with a simple structure, if possible only one at a time Surface of a liquid present liquid medium is recorded.

This object is achieved in that

• - Between at least two firmly spaced apart Float at a limited angle around an axis skimming pan pivoted between the floats is
• - The skimming pan is a receiving the skimmed medium Includes gutter with an associated leading edge, and
• - The buoyancy of the liquid medium opposite the leading edge and behind the axis engages.

By this measure, the will at a large width Liquid surface floating medium added, where the swimmers do not hinder the direct inflow. The one around limited angle swiveling skimmer dives so deep one to the liquid medium, which of course also applies to floating solids can contain.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the skimming trough is a part of the gutter, over the  Inlet plate extending axis to the inlet edge. This Design ensures the inflow of the liquid medium from only one direction into the skimming pan. By that of the gutter is the inlet plate running to the inlet edge ensures a steady inflow of the liquid medium, being through a slant from the leading edge to the gutter falling inlet plate increases the suction effect and thus a faster inflow is favored.

The skimmer is designed for different skimming angles be applicable. Under no circumstances should liquid from flow into the gutter from a side other than the leading edge. It is therefore expedient to end one that faces away from the axis back wall of the Gutter and the side wall that closes laterally above the level of the liquid medium, one of the axis facing, parallel inner wall of the gutter and the inlet plate adjoining the inner wall of the channel with the leading edge in the almost horizontal state of the Inlet plate below the level of the liquid medium lie.

The elements interacting in the axis should be simple and be designed appropriately. To achieve this is preferably provided that on the side walls of the channel Skimming pan bearing bushes are attached to the Float or connection attached to the float trusses pivotally engaged trunnions that form the axis. Such storage is easy to carry out and in the material pairing easily to the liquid medium adaptable, which makes the storage life practically un is limited. Furthermore, the length of the axis depends on the length  the skimming pan independently, resulting in a cost reduction leads.

According to an advantageous development of the invention rotates the buoyancy of the liquid medium the empty skimming pan around the axis, creating the leading edge and the inlet plate immerse below the level of the liquid medium. It is therefore no additional drive mechanism is required. The Skimmer works according to the laws of physical buoyancy and displacement forces. As soon as the Gutter of the skimming pan is empty, this floats and turns the skimming pan around the axis. The full skimmer turns against the buoyancy around the axis, whereby the inlet edge over the level of the liquid medium protrudes. The resulting interplay between Immerse and immerse the leading edge in the liquid Medium, a drive-less mechanism is guaranteed. At the Immersion takes place when the gutter is filled. The filled gutter causes the immersion. After emptying the gutter the buoyancy forces the immersion again and thus the filling. This constellation means that driveless and therefore inexpensive manufacture of the Ab scooping device ensured.

The immersion depth of the leading edge depends on the type of increasing liquid medium differently. Furthermore should the skipping of the skimming pan can be prevented so only properly run in liquid medium. Therefore preferably limits one attached to the skimmer Immersion stop immersion and one at the skimming pan fixed replacement stop the replacement of the skimming pan, where both the plunge and the plunge stop  with at least one of the swimmers connecting them Connecting trusses and / or the floats cooperates.

In order not to have a ge for every liquid medium to be skimmed off special skimmer or a separate skimmer Having to ride a horse is conveniently immersion stop and / or the exchange stop adjustable. So is the skimmer for media of different consistency usable.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the immersion stop and / or the exchange stop or with them interacting elements made elastic. This will the skimming pan is braked elastically with or without medium. Another advantage of this configuration lies in a ge noise reduction.

The buoyancy force influences the filling volume of the Trough taken and therefore also on the rapid succession of Duty cycles. To make this variable, a Development of the invention on a skimmer arranged trim system adjustable buoyancy. Around with a simple design, it has a sufficient effect aim, the trim system preferably consists of a cross to the Axial trimmed weight recording and a ver adjustable trim weight.

So that the skimming tray mon can be tiert, the trim weight recording is expedient attached to the immersion stop or to the immersion stop. This also results in the assembly of the one stop  better handling as it works with the trim weight absorption is a large, easy-to-use part.

According to a development of the invention, the outflow of the Skimming pan at least one via a gutter hole on the Gutter attached drain hose. By looking down closed and leading drain hose is therefore not further support of the process situation is required.

The drain hose attached to the skimmer pan should also be used its weight does not have a great influence on the processes at Exercise immersion and immersion. Therefore, the gutter hole is useful moderately in the angular range between the inner wall and one Channel bottom of the channel provided. This allows the liquid Drain the medium completely out of the gutter.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the Center of the gutter hole approximately in the middle in the angular range, whereby from a semicircle from the bottom of the gutter and from the inner wall Rectangle is released, and a rectangular cut Pipe to which the drain hose is attached, the gutter hole covered. These measures ensure a quick drain of the liquid medium from the gutter, as a large one Inlet cross-section is available. With the chosen form of the Rinnenloches still does not create a vortex, which is the drain would affect speed.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the Drainage of the skimming pan at least one immersed in the channel Suction pipe with a drain hose connected to it. The weight of the drain also affects this does not adversely affect the rotary movements of the skimming pan.  

The skimming pan is easy to seal. There are not any additional connection points available, about their attached elements of the drain hose to be attached ought to. So that the gutter can be emptied quickly, points the suction pipe prefers a large number over its circumference distributed pipe holes.

When vacuuming, a separation of the extracted liquid Media. This happens according to the density of the media, according to the height at which they float. To do this achieve, according to an advantageous further education Invention two connected to separate drain hoses Suction tubes immersed in the gutter, with one suction tube the pipe holes for suction of the media floating above above the pipe holes provided on the other suction pipe are arranged for suction of the media floating below. It is cheap, first the medium floating above and then aspirate the medium below.

To roughly separate the liquid medium into its loading to receive components before vacuuming or draining, are in a further embodiment in the channel and / or overflow weirs and / or underflow weirs appropriate.

The suction pipes immersed in the gutter and associated Drain hoses are to be held so that they function properly do not hinder. So the gutter with its inner wall, their rear wall and / or their side walls neither with the Ab barrel, its holder or the drain hose in contact come. It is therefore expedient for the swimmers and / or the connecting crossbars connecting the floats  a tube frame carrying the suction tubes is provided. To the Pipe frame is a simple holder that is not necessary for the drain agile elements possible. There is no access at any time possible to lift the skimmer from the liquid.

The rough separation of the liquid medium is the same early emptying of the gutter results in a large Efficiency per skimming process. With separate drain it is important that the medium that has flowed into the channel has calmed down before the drain occurs. Via the suction pipe this is easy to control, because the suction only after can be started at a certain time. To this quality to obtain an increase in the drainage via the drain pipe, at the same time a conclusion on the flowed off quantity is possible, in an advantageous further development striking plate closing the gutter hole on the tubular frame, attached to the floats or the connecting crossbars.

Closing and opening the gutter hole is also auto matically by rotating the skimming pan around its axis feasible. As a result, the skimmer does not need any additional Units that monitor the position of the skimming pan and control the striking plate in the same way. Therefore, after a further development of the invention, the channel hole through the Strike plate locked when the leading edge is below the level of the liquid medium, and the striking plate releases the gutter hole when the skimmer pan turns around its axis tilts, and the leading edge from the level of the liquid Medium. Thus the effects of physical Buoyancy and displacement forces acting on the skimming pan act, used twice.  

It is also preferred at the inlet edge of the skimming pan a rake is provided. Through the rake this is in the skimmer flowing medium already selected. This allows for example large impurities that affect the function would disturb, not flow.

Is it desirable that only floating on the surface The rake shows that medium can flow into the skimmer inflow openings still open at the top. However, should only flow in a floating medium and retained the medium floating on the surface according to an alternative design the rake has a closed upper edge and spaced downward from the top edge flow openings.

Under certain circumstances, it is necessary to determine the total immersion depth to change the skimmer in the liquid. This can be the case if, for example, measuring instruments added or actuators removed have been. According to a further advantageous embodiment The invention is therefore on the float and / or the connection trusses attached to at least one secondary float. The size of the secondary float is according to it sufficient buoyancy, which after removal of the secondary float dips the skimmer deeper and floats higher after adding.

However, it is cumbersome, depending on the desired immersion depth, always replace the secondary floats. It's easier always leave the secondary float on the skimmer and  expediently adjustable in height on the float and / or the Attach cross beams.

Attaching and adjusting the secondary float on the Float should be easy to do, and the secondary float should continue after loosening the skimmer remain local. The secondary float is therefore preferred attached at least one ring surrounding the float, wherein on the ring the position of the secondary swimmer towards the swimmer defining actuating means are arranged.

The adjusting means arranged on the ring are preferred on the Circumference of the ring distributed screws with which the ring and thus the secondary float is attached to the float. No special tools are required for the adjustment, and the clamping force is distributed over the circumference of the float.

The actuators immersed in the liquid are one exposed to increased corrosion. Furthermore, it is cumbersome the actuators below the liquid level serve. To also ensure a balance of the skimmer to deliver, a simultaneous adjustment of the two Secondary swimmers take place. The actuating means is therefore preferred on the ring a truss stand on which an adjustment mechanism acts that adjusts both secondary floats.

Depending on the surface movement and on the skimmer deposits are dipped in different ways by the skimmer deep in. An optimal work result of the skimmer However, it can only be done with constant immersion depth aim. Preference is therefore given to at least one of the floats  a level sensor measuring the immersion depth is attached, by the measurement result of the adjustment mechanism the position of the Secondary float sets. Thus the skimmer fits automatically to the influences acting on it without the need for visual observation at all times.

With very large movement of the surface of the liquid, in who swims the skimmer is perfect work not possible anymore. Conveniently therefore hires Wave sensor the surface movements of the liquid medium firmly, by the measurement result of the adjustment mechanism Position of the secondary float adjusts the position of the Striking hole associated striking plate and / or limits the angle through which the skimming pan swings. This measure influences all of the function relevant factors possible.

Actuators are preferably provided on the skimmer, which the adjustment mechanism, the striking plate and the Influence swivel limitation. This is largely automatic operation of the skimmer guaranteed.

An inexpensive configuration of the actuators results when standardized components are used. To achieve this, is expediently the actuator for the adjustment mechanism a cylinder acting on a scissors drive. Also for the use of all elements acting on the swivel movement is the use of inexpensive standardized components intended. The actuator for the pivot is preferred limit a cylinder adjusting the trim weight and / or a drive controlling the swiveling movement of the skimming tank. For the control of the swiveling movement can be a cylinder  a stepper motor can also be used.

Sensitive components must be protected from moisture and ver dirt are protected. The actuators must be able to exercise required energy can be made available. To one great effort to protect these sensitive components avoid and get the energy close to the actuator ready to deliver, is preferably in or on at least one of the Float an evaluation unit, an actuator and / or energy-saving compressed air reservoir provided.

An undesirable swell is said to function as skimming do not unduly affect the device. The waves are said to be ahead the skimming pan are already weakened. Is achieved this in one embodiment of the invention by the Floats and / or the connecting crossbar attached Secondary float, at least partially in the longitudinal area reach into the skimmer. The acting waves are broken, and yet enough medium can be skimmed go directly to the skimming pan.

So that the skimmers don't get too big and still a large width can be blocked with skimmers, is expediently a composite system of several skimmers devices to form a skim chain. Here the merger also takes place by bringing them together the outflows in or above the liquid is feasible. By staggered one behind the other Uninterrupted protection is possible with skimming devices.  

A stationary use of installed, to a skim chain combined skimmers is advantageous there where liquid medium accumulates and is skimmed off must become. For example, the use of river weirs, behind industrial plants, in recycling plants, in which mixtures be separated into its components, conceivable.

However, the liquid to be skimmed hits on one large area, such as a lake or sea the skimmers connected to a skimming chain preferably integrated into a towing device. The off scooped liquid is used by accompanying tankers added on which further separation of the liquid is carried out.

It shows:

Fig. 1 shows a section through a tank with a floating on a liquid skimming apparatus according to the invention,

Fig. 2 is a plan view of the skimming apparatus according to Fig. 1 in the direction of arrow II,

Fig. 3 a section through the skimming apparatus according to Fig. 1, in the direction of arrows III-III, in an enlarged view and in the end position,

Fig. 4 shows a section according to FIG. 3 in the feed position,

Fig. 5 is a view of the detail V of FIG. 3,

Fig. 6 is a partial sectional view of Fig. 3 in the direction of arrows VI-VI,

Fig. 7 is a section through the float of Fig. 1 in the direction of arrows VII-VII in enlarged representation,

Fig. 8 shows a section through a tank with a floating on a liquid alternative skimming apparatus according to the invention,

Fig. 9 shows a section through the skimming apparatus according to FIG. 8, in the direction of arrows IX-IX, in an enlarged view and in the end position,

Fig. 10 shows a section according to FIG. 9 with different alternative embodiments,

Fig. 11 is a view on the leading edge as shown in FIG. 10 in the direction of arrow XI,

Fig. 12 shows an alternative embodiment of the leading edge of Fig. 11,

Fig. 13 is a section through an embodiment of an altenative Abschöpfgerätes in flow position,

Fig. 14 a section through the ladle of FIG. 13 in the feed position,

Fig. 15 is a view of a floating in a liquid skimming apparatus with alternative additives,

Fig. 16 is a plan view of the ladle of FIG. 15 in the direction of arrow XVI,

Fig. 17 is a plan view of an alternative ladle,

Fig. 18 is a side view of a self-floating skimmer according to the prior art and

Fig. 19 is a plan view of the ladle of FIG. 18.

Contaminated liquid flows into a container 1 , the contamination of which settles on the surface 2 . The skimmer 3 floats freely on the surface 2 in the container 1 , which has an outlet 4 which passes through the container wall 5 . The drain 4 consists of a flexible drain hose 6 , which is fastened with hose clips 7 to pipe socket 8 . On the container side, the pipe socket 8 passes through the container bore 9 in a sealed manner. The skimmed medium flowing out of the container neck 8 is further processed in a system, not shown. The pipe socket 8 on the side of the skimmer 3 has a quick coupling 10 , via which the drain 4 from the skimmer 3 is separated GE. The skimmer 3 has an elongated extension with an essentially rectangular skimmer pan 11 . So that the skimmer 3 floats, floats 12 are attached to it, which ensure sufficient buoyancy. The floats 12 are located on the narrow sides 13 of the scoop 11 , wherein between the narrow sides 13 and the floats 12 a shaft 14 connecting the float 12 and the skimmer 11 is arranged. In front of the long sides 15 of the skimming pan 11 , connecting cross members 16 are arranged, with which the floats 12 are connected. The distance between the floats 12 is selected so that the skimmer 11 can pivot freely about the axis 14 . The connecting traverses 16 are round rods, each with a thread 17 at their ends, with which they are screwed into threaded bushings 18 , which are welded to the floats 12 .

The skimming trough 11 essentially consists of three parts, two identical side walls 19 and a central plate 21 having different bends 20 with parallel axes. A bearing bush 22 is welded to each of the side walls 19 towards the outside in the direction of the floats 12 . A each welded to the float 12 bearing pin 23 engages in the corresponding bearing bush 22 and forms part of the axis 14th There is sufficient play between the journal 23 and the bearing bush 22 both in the radial and in the axial direction to prevent jamming when the skimming device 3 moves in a restrictive manner. The side walls 19 of the skimming pan 11 form the shape of a house lying on the side. The middle plate 21 connected to the side walls 19 has approximately an L-shape, the long leg 24 of which ends with the upper edge 25 of the side walls 19 . The axis 14 is arranged approximately centrally in relation to the side walls 19 in the horizontal orientation and approximately in the ratio 1: 1.5 in the vertical direction, the smaller part being at the bottom. A run-in plate 28 runs from the tip 26 of the side wall 19 in conformity with the bevel 27 , which forms a run-in edge 29 at a bend 20 and from there runs a feed plate 30 running obliquely inwards and downwards. The short leg 33 of the L-shape of the middle plate 21 represents the rear wall 31 of the skimming pan 11 , which runs parallel to the axis 14 . The inner wall 32 , which runs parallel to the axis 14 and the outer wall 31 , is closer to the axis 14 , but still on the side to the rear wall 31 . The inner wall 32 and the rear wall 31 are connected with respect to the long leg 24 between two bends 20 of the middle plate 21 , this part representing the groove bottom 34 of a groove 35 . Overall, the groove 35 is composed of the inner wall 32 , the height of the inner wall 32 ent speaking parts of the side walls 19 and the corresponding height of the rear wall 31 . This results in a shape with one side in cross section for the skimming trough 11 , which has the trough 35 lying behind the axis 14 opposite the inlet edge 29 . The inlet plate 30 extends obliquely upwards from the trough 35 to the inlet edge 29 over the axis 14 . Seen from above, the skimming trough 11 and thus also the groove 35 are closed all around.

In a certain position, the skimming pan 11 must hold liquid medium. This position is shown in Fig. 4. The skimming pan 11 is pivoted clockwise about the axis 14 . As a result, the inlet edge 29 comes to lie below the surface 2 of the liquid, and the medium to be absorbed flows via the inlet edge 29 and the inlet plate 30 into the empty channel 35 . The inlet plate 30 has an approximately horizontal orientation with a small inclination in the direction of the groove 35 in order to facilitate the inflow. In this position, the side walls 19 and the rear wall 31 protrude above the surface 2 of the liquid.

In the position of the skimming trough 11 shown in FIG. 3, skimmed liquid medium is located in the trough 35 . As a result, the skimming pan 11 is pivoted counterclockwise about the axis 14 , as a result of which, in addition to the side walls 19 and the rear wall 31 looking out of the surface 2 of the liquid, the inlet edge 29 also lies above the surface 2 . It can no longer be scooped up liquid. This is only possible again after the skimmer 11 has been emptied.

If the skimming trough is empty 11 (see FIG. FIG. 4), the buoyancy force acting on it is 36 (arrow) of the fluid so large that the skimming trough 11 is rotated clockwise direction about the axis 14 in the watch, and the abzuschöpfende medium via the Inlet edge 29 flows into the skimming trough 11 or its groove 35 . As the trough 35 fills, the driving force 36 is no longer sufficient to hold the skimming pan 11 in the position shown in FIG. 4. It then turns counterclockwise to the position in Fig. 3.

So that the skimming pan 11 does not overturn when rotating, a sliding seat 37 having a guide is arranged on the rear wall 31 , in which an exchange stop 39 and an immersion stop 40 lie between two webs 38 . The sliding seat 37 has a threaded hole in the center, into which a screw 41 engages, which carries a locking nut 42 on its threaded shaft. The height between the webs 38 which represent the guide corresponds approximately to the thickness of the immersion stop 39 and the immersion stop 40 . The clear width between the webs 38 is slightly wider than the width of the immersion stop 39 and immersion stop 40 , as a result of which the two stops 39, 40 can slide in the guide when the locking nut 42 is loosened. The displacement of the two stops 39, 40 is limited by the elongated holes 101 , which they carry in their part lying in the guide, aligned parallel to the rear wall 31 and through which the screw 41 projects. At its end facing the channel bottom 34, the immersion stop 39 has an edge 43 and the immersion stop 40 has an edge 44 . The bevels 43, 44 are made so long that they reach into the area of the connecting cross member 16 and accommodate this between them. The edge 44 of the immersion stop 40 lies below the connecting cross member 16 and the fold 43 of the immersion stop 39 above the connecting cross member 16 . If the distance between the bevels 43 , 44 is changed, the angle through which the skimming pan 11 pivots about the axis 14 also changes . For example, if the skimmer 11 is dipped deeper, the locking nut 42 is loosened and the immersion stop 40 is moved downward in the direction of the channel bottom 34 , and after reaching the desired position, the locking nut 42 is tightened again. When turning clockwise, the fold 44 of the immersion stop 40 later comes to rest on the connecting cross member 16 . From the scoop 11 has traveled a larger angle of rotation, and the leading edge 29 is immersed deeper. The rest of the adjustment is carried out analogously.

In the execution of the Austauchanschlag 39 and a immersion stop 40 in Fig. 10, the folds 43 , 44 are each covered with an elastic plug 45 . Through this plug 45 on the one hand, the angular movement of the scoop from 11 is elastically cushioned and on the other hand, a noise reduction when striking the folds 43 , 44 on the connecting cross member 16 is achieved.

A trim system 46 is arranged above the skimming pan 11 . It consists of a right-angled round rod 47 , which has a Verstellge thread 49 in the area above the skimming pan 11 , which is also the trim weight holder 50 . A connector 48 bent at a right angle runs in the direction of the stops 39 , 40 and is arranged on the external exchange stop 39 . Thus, when the exchange stop 39 is adjusted, the trim system 46 also changes its position, but this has no effect in the position shown in FIGS. 3 and 13. In the position shown in FIG. 4, the center of gravity of the trimming system 46 changes slightly, which is generally negligible. To avoid this, the trimming system 46 can also be stationary, e.g. B. on the rear wall 31 of the skimmer 11 . With the trimming system 46 , an influence on the driving force 36 is exerted, ie there is an influence on the timing of the rotation of the skimming pan 11 . If the trim weight located on the trim weight receiver 50 of the axle 51 14 29 ver inserted, so the earlier skimming tilts in a clockwise direction until the stop 40 in the immersion effect is right more towards the inlet edge. The trimming system 46 extends transversely to the axis 14 , and therefore the greatest possible effect on the skimming pan 11 is achieved with a slight adjustment of the trimming weight 51 . If the setting is to take place more delicately, the trim system is arranged at an angle to axis 14 .

In the gutter 35 of the skimmer 11 there is a gutter hole 52 to which the drain 4 with drain hose 6 is connected. The trough hole 52 is in the angular range 54 between the inner wall 32 and arranged to the groove 35 to be below adjacent groove bottom 34th The center 53 of the Rin nenloches 52 is in the angular range 54th The orientation of the axis of the channel hole 56 is perpendicular to the channel bottom 34 . Due to this position, a semicircle 55 is unlatched in the channel bottom 34 and a rectangle 56 in the inner wall 32 . The gutter hole 52 is sealed with a rectangularly cut tube 57 , which covers both the semicircle and the rectangle 56 . An all-round weld seam extends from the channel bottom 34 via the inner wall 32 to the inlet plate 30 . On the pipe 57 , the quick connector 10 is attached, via which the drain 4 is connected.

In FIGS. 8, 9 and 10, a discharge 58 occurs from the added from pan 11 only upward. Therefore, no gutter hole is necessary with this arrangement. A suction pipe 59 is immersed in the groove 35 , via which the liquid skimmed medium is sucked out of the groove 35 . The further removal takes place here via a drain hose 60 connected to the suction pipe 59 . In the embodiment according to FIG. 9 there are 59 pipe holes 61 over the entire length of the suction pipe, which are distributed over the circumference. In the drain 58 shown in FIG. 10, two separate suction pipes 62 , 63 are also assigned two separate drain hoses 64 , 65 . In the suction pipe 62 , the pipe holes 61 are at the top. Thus, the media floating above are sucked off via this suction pipe 62 and transported away via the drain hose 64 . In contrast, in the suction pipe 63, the pipe holes 61 are at the bottom. Here, the media floating below are sucked off and transported away via the drain hose 65 .

Overflow weirs or underflow weirs (not shown) arranged in the trough 35 or the inlet plate 30 - a rough separation is already possible, as a result of which the efficiency of the arrangement according to FIG. 10 is increased.

The suction pipes 59 , 62 and 63 must assume a certain fixed position in the channel 35 . They must not hinder the rotary movement of the skimming pan 11 about the axis 14 . A tubular frame 66 in the form of a bracket is attached to the floats 12 . On the tubular frame 66 two holders 67 are attached, the tube 68 of the tubular frame 66 vice versa. The holders 67 run obliquely in the central region in the direction of the groove 35 and hold the suction pipe 59 or the suction pipes 62 and 63 there .

In the illustration of FIG. 13 and 14 of the discharge is carried out in combination. For this purpose, there is a channel hole 52 in the channel bottom 34 , which is enclosed by the tube 57 . Via a holder 67 fastened to the tube frame 66 , a suction tube 59 is immersed in the channel 35 of the skimming trough 11 and held there. So there is a combined drain through the channel hole 52 and the suction pipe 59th As an additional variant, there is a striking plate 69 on the holder 67 , which has a closing angle 70 covering the trough hole 52 . A striking plate holder 71 is flanged to the holder 67 above the closing angle 70 . The arrangement is resilient in such a way that the closing angle 70 lies in the immersion position ( FIG. 14) in a sealing manner in front of the channel hole 52 and only releases the channel hole 52 when it changes to the exchange position ( FIG. 13).

A rake 72 is attached above the inlet edge 29 of the skimming trough 11 according to FIG. 10. In the lower area, the rake 72 has a U-shape 73 which engages around the end of the middle plate 21 between its legs. The outer leg is higher and has a fold 74 overlapping the leading edge 29 , with which the rake 72 is clipped over the leading edge 29 . The rake sheet 75 of the rake 72 runs above the fold 74 and runs parallel to the edge of the side wall 19 . The width of the rake 72 is chosen so that it fits exactly between the two side walls 19 of the skimmer 11 . The rake 72 according to FIG. 11 be seated in the rake plate 75 upwardly open inflow openings 76 , through which medium floating on the surface can flow into the skimmer 11 in the immersion position. In contrast, the rake 72 of FIG. 12 has a closed upper edge 77 . At a distance from the upper edge 77 , inflow openings 78 are provided which are closed in themselves and have the shape of a rectangle. In the immersion position, only medium can flow through the inflow openings 78 which is at the height of the inflow openings 78 .

The floats 12 consist of a central tube section 79 , to which floating covers 80 are tightly attached at both ends. For better sealing and for guiding, the float cover 80 has a bead 81 which is inserted into the inner diameter 82 of the pipe section 79 and ensures a tight connection. The float 12 is hermetically sealed by an adhesive applied to the bead 81 and inner diameter 82 . The secondary floats 83 , which are fastened to the floats 12 , are also produced on the same principle. The attachment is carried out with two rings 84 running around the tube section 79 of the float 12 . On the rings 84 supports 85 are attached, which are connected to the secondary floats 83 . Adjustment means are embedded in the ring 84 , which are designed as three screws 86 offset by 120 ° to one another. Via the adjusting means, the secondary float 83 is vertically adjustable on the float 12 . Should the skimmer 3 float higher, the secondary floats 83 are dipped deeper into the liquid, and by means of the screws 86 this position is determined, whereby a greater buoyancy force is exerted on the entire unit.

The adjusting means in the arrangement of FIGS. 15, 16 is a truss stator 87 which is fixed to the rings 84th The middle part 88 of the truss stand 87 is rotatably mounted and connected to an adjusting mechanism 90 via an adjusting rod 89 . The adjustment mechanism 90 is a scissor drive mounted on a cylinder 91 . Extends the push rod 99 of the cylinder 91 , the outer nodes 100 move outward, and the secondary float 83 are pressed down, whereby the skimmer 3 floats higher. The lowering takes place in the opposite direction. Since the ladle 3 shown in Fig. 15, 16 is loaded on the right side by the adjustment mechanism 90 by weight higher, the secondary float 83 is already inserted deeper than on the opposite side provides on this side. This means that there is always a higher buoyancy.

Level sensors 92 are arranged on the floating covers 80 of the floats 12 and are immersed in the liquid with the skimmer 3 . On the result of the level sensors 92 he averaged, the cylinder 91 of the adjustment mechanism 90 is controlled accordingly and the optimal immersion depth is set.

A wave sensor detects the surface movement of the liquid medium in which the skimmer 3 floats. 17 is one of the secondary swimmers 83 fastened coaxially to a float 12 about the float axis 93 according to FIG. 17. The rotational movement is determined, converted and the measurement result is used for the corresponding adjustment mechanisms.

All measurement results as well as control commands supplied from outside act on actuators that influence the corresponding elements. An actuator can thus influence the Schwenkbe limitation, which can be reduced or enlarged. In addition, influence can be exerted on the automatic run, which in extreme cases means that a drive to pivot the skimmer 11 performs. Centered on the ladle 3 shown in Fig. 15, 16, a cylinder 94 is attached, which carries the ballast weight 51 at its push rod 95. The cylinder 94 can therefore be struck with control pulses to change the position of the trim weight 51 .

An evaluation unit is accommodated in the cavity 102 of the floats 12 , which detects the measurement results of the sensors and converts them into control pulses for the actuators. Furthermore, the actuator (drive) for the swiveling limitation of the skimming pan 11 is also accommodated there. For this purpose, the bearing pin 23 is inserted tightly into the float 12 and a positive entrainment is arranged between the bearing pin 23 and the bearing bush 22 (not shown). Furthermore, the cavity 102 is suitable as an energy store. It is filled with compressed air, which is periodically reloaded via compressed air supply lines 96 . From the evaluation unit in the float 12 control lines 97 go to the cylinders 91 and 94 and the other actuators.

The longitudinal float of the secondary floats 83 fastened coaxially to the floats 12 extends in part up to the longitudinal sides 15 of the skimmer pan 11 . They thus also serve as a breakwater, as a result of which the surface of the liquid medium in front of the skimming pan 11 is relatively calm.

The skimmers 3 are versatile and can also be adjusted in size. When several skimming units 3 are combined to form a skimming chain, the outflows are combined and transported away by a composite system 98 . In the composite system 98 shown in FIG. 15, the drain 4 is held in the floats 12 . The connection of the composite system 98 via appropriate couplings, such as. B. Pipe swivel joints and quick connections. The skimming chain can be expanded as required. The skimming chains can be used both stationary and as a unit attached to a towing device for ships.

The skimmers 3 are very versatile. In addition to the use in open waters, the use of smaller units in containers 1 is also conceivable. A wide variety of liquid media can be skimmed off. In addition to environmental protection, it can also be used in recycling plants. The skimmer 3 can be used wherever there is a medium floating in a liquid that is present in the liquid at a certain height. The medium to be skimmed off can be liquid, doughy or solid. In the case of a solid medium, the part of the liquid that has been absorbed ensures easy removal.

Reference symbol list

1 container
2 surface
3 skimmer
4 drain
5 container wall
6 drain hose
7 hose clamps
8 pipe sockets
9 container bore
10 quick coupling
11 skimming pan
12 swimmers
13 narrow side
14 axis
15 long sides
16 connecting trusses
17 threads
18 threaded bushes
19 side walls
20 bends
21 center plate
22 bearing bush
23 journals
24 long legs
25 top edge 19
26 top of 19
27 slants from 19
28 inlet plate
29 leading edge
30 inlet plate
31 rear wall
32 inner wall
33 short legs
34 channel floor
35 gutter
36 buoyancy edge
37 sliding seat
38 footbridge
39 Exchange stop
40 plunge stop
41 screw
42 locking nut
43 Bend on 39
44 folding on 40
45 elastic plugs
46 trim system
47 round bar
48 sockets
49 adjustment thread
50 trim weight absorption
51 trim weight
52 gutter hole
53 center of 52
54 angular range
55 semicircle
56 rectangle
57 pipe
58 drain upwards
59 suction pipe
60 drain hose upwards
61 pipe holes
62 suction pipe (hole above)
63 suction pipe (hole below)
64 suction hose to 62
65 suction hose to 63
66 tubular frame
67 holder
68 tube of 66
69 striking plate
70 closing angles
71 striking plate holder
72 rakes
73 U-shape of 72
74 folding
75 rake plate
76 Inlet opening open
77 top edge of 72
78 inflow openings closed
79 pipe section of 12
80 float covers
81 bead
82 inner diameter of 79
83 secondary float
84 ring
85 sockets
86 screws in 84
87 truss stands
88 middle section of 87
89 control rod
90 adjustment mechanism
91 cylinders of 90
92 level sensor
93 float axis
94 cylinders
95 push rod of 94
96 compressed air supply lines
97 control lines
98 interconnected system
99 push rod from 91
100 nodes out of 90
101 slots
102 cavity
150 skimmer
151 pipe
152 liquid
153 flange
154 clamping screw
155 strut
156 swimmers
157 drain hose

Claims (40)

1. Self-floating skimmer, which receives the upper layer from the liquid medium in which it floats, with associated floats and with a drain for transporting the absorbed medium, characterized in that

• a skimmer pan ( 11 ) pivoting at a limited angle about an axis ( 14 ) between the floats ( 12 ) is mounted between at least two fixedly spaced floats ( 12 ),
• - The skimming trough ( 11 ) comprises a gutter ( 35 ) receiving the skimmed medium with an associated inlet edge ( 29 ), and
• - The buoyancy force ( 36 ) acting on the skimming pan ( 11 ) of the liquid medium acts opposite the leading edge ( 29 ) and behind the axis ( 14 ).

2. Self-floating skimmer according to claim 1, characterized in that an outgoing from the trough ( 35 ), over the axis ( 14 ) to the leading edge ( 29 ) extending inlet plate ( 30 ) is provided. 3. Self-floating skimmer according to claims 1 and 2, characterized in that one of the axis ( 14 ) facing away, parallel to it, the rear wall ( 31 ) of the channel ( 35 ) and the channel ( 35 ) laterally closing side walls ( 19 ) above the level of the liquid medium, with an inner wall ( 32 ) of the channel ( 35 ) facing the axis ( 14 ) running parallel to it and the inlet plate ( 30 ) adjoining the inner wall ( 32 ) with the inlet edge ( 29 ) in an approximately horizontal state of the inlet plate ( 30 ) are below the level of the liquid medium. 4. Self-floating skimmer according to claims 1 to 3, characterized in that on the side walls ( 19 ) of the trough ( 35 ) of the skimmer pan ( 11 ) bearing bushes ( 22 ) are fixed, in which on the floats ( 12 ) or on the floats ( 12 ) holding connecting cross members ( 16 ) rotatably engage bearing pins ( 23 ) which form the axis ( 14 ). 5. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the buoyancy force ( 36 ) of the liquid medium rotates the empty skimmer pan ( 11 ) about the axis ( 14 ), whereby the leading edge ( 29 ) and the inlet plate ( 30 ) immerse below the level of the liquid medium. 6. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the full skimmer ( 11 ) rotates against the buoyancy ( 36 ) about the axis ( 14 ), whereby the leading edge ( 29 ) protrudes above the level of the liquid medium . 7. Floating skimming apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that a fastened to the skimming trough (11) immersion stop (40) (39) limits the immersion and a Austauchanschlag the emersion of the skimming trough (11), both the immersion stop ( 40 ) and the exchange stop ( 39 ) cooperates with at least one of the connecting cross members ( 16 ) connecting the floats ( 12 ) and / or the floats ( 12 ). 8. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the immersion stop ( 40 ) and / or the exchange stop ( 39 ) is adjustable. 9. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the immersion stop ( 40 ) and / or the exchange stop ( 39 ) or the elements interacting with them are designed to be elastic. 10. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the buoyancy ( 36 ) is adjustable via a trimming system ( 46 ) arranged on the skimmer pan ( 11 ). 11. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the trim system ( 46 ) consists of a transverse to the axis ( 14 ) trimming weight holder ( 50 ) and an adjustable trimming weight ( 51 ). 12. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the trim weight receptacle ( 50 ) is attached to the immersion stop ( 40 ) or to the exchange stop ( 39 ). 13. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the drain ( 4 ) of the skimmer pan ( 11 ) comprises at least one drain hose ( 6 ) attached to the gutter ( 35 ) via a gutter hole ( 52 ). 14. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the channel hole ( 52 ) is provided in the angular region ( 54 ) between the inner wall ( 32 ) and a channel bottom ( 34 ) of the channel ( 35 ). 15. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the center ( 53 ) of the gutter hole ( 52 ) is located approximately in the center in the angular range ( 54 ), with a semicircle ( 55 ) and out of the gutter bottom ( 34 ) a rectangle ( 56 ) is notched on the inner wall ( 32 ), and a rectangularly cut tube ( 57 ), to which the drain hose ( 6 ) is attached, covers the gutter hole ( 52 ). 16. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the drain ( 4 ) of the skimmer pan ( 11 ) comprises at least one suction tube ( 59 ) immersed in the trough ( 35 ) with a drain hose ( 60 ) connected thereto. 17. Self-floating skimmer according to claim 16, characterized in that the suction pipe ( 59 ) has a plurality of pipe holes ( 61 ) distributed over its circumference. 18. Self-floating skimmer according to claim 16, characterized in that two suction pipes ( 62, 63 ) connected to separate drain hoses ( 64, 65 ) are immersed in the trough ( 35 ), the pipe holes ( 61 ) for a suction pipe ( 62 ) Sucking off the media floating above are arranged above the pipe holes ( 61 ) provided on the other suction pipe ( 63 ) for sucking off the media floating below. 19. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that overflow weirs and / or underflow weirs are attached in the trough ( 35 ) and / or the inlet plate ( 30 ). 20. A self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 16 to 19, characterized in that on the floats ( 12 ) and / or the connecting crossbeams ( 16 ) connecting the floats ( 12 ) a tubular frame ( 66 ) carrying the suction pipes ( 59, 62, 63 ) ) is provided. 21. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 15 and 20, characterized in that a closing plate ( 69 ) closing the gutter hole ( 52 ) on the tubular frame ( 66 ), the floats ( 12 ) or the connecting cross members ( 16 ) is attached. 22. Self-floating skimmer according to claim 21, characterized in that the channel hole ( 52 ) is closed by the striking plate ( 69 ) when the inlet edge ( 29 ) is below the level of the liquid medium, and in that the striking plate ( 69 ) the channel hole ( 52 ) releases when the skimming pan ( 11 ) tilts about its axis ( 14 ) and the inlet edge ( 29 ) emerges from the level of the liquid medium. 23. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 22, characterized in that a rake ( 72 ) is provided on the leading edge ( 29 ) of the skimmer pan ( 11 ). 24. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that the rake ( 72 ) has upwardly open inflow openings ( 76 ). 25. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that the rake ( 72 ) has a closed upper edge ( 77 ) upwards and from the upper edge ( 77 ) spaced downward inlet openings ( 78 ). 26. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 25, characterized in that at least one secondary float ( 83 ) is attached to the float ( 12 ) and / or the connecting cross members ( 16 ). 27. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 26, characterized in that the secondary float ( 83 ) is attached to the float ( 12 ) and / or the connecting crossbars ( 16 ) so as to be adjustable in height. 28. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 27, characterized in that at least one ring ( 84 ) surrounding the float ( 12 ) is attached to the secondary float ( 83 ), the position of the secondary float ( 83 ) on the ring ( 84 ) Floating means ( 12 ) are arranged. 29. Floating skimming apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 28, characterized in that arranged on the ring (84) actuating means (84) distributed screws (86) on the circumference of the ring with which the ring (84) and hence the secondary float ( 83 ) on the float ( 12 ). 30. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 28, characterized in that the adjusting means on the ring ( 84 ) is a truss stand ( 87 ) on which an adjusting mechanism ( 90 ) acts, which adjusts both secondary floats ( 83 ). 31. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 30, characterized in that a level sensor ( 92 ) measuring the immersion depth is attached to at least one of the floats ( 12 ), through the measurement result of which the adjusting mechanism ( 90 ) determines the position of the secondary floats ( 83 ). sets. 32. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 31, characterized in that a wave sensor detects the surface movements of the liquid medium, by means of the measurement result of which the adjusting mechanism ( 90 ) adjusts the position of the secondary floats ( 83 ), the position of the gutter hole ( 52 ) assigned striking plate ( 69 ) influences and / or limits the angle through which the skimming pan ( 11 ) swings. 33. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 32, characterized in that actuators are provided which influence the adjusting mechanism ( 90 ), the striking plate ( 69 ) and the pivoting limitation. 34. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 33, characterized in that the actuator for the adjusting mechanism ( 90 ) is a cylinder ( 91 ) acting on a scissor drive. 35. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 34, characterized in that the actuator for the swivel limiter is a trim weight ( 51 ) adjusting cylinder ( 94 ) and / or a drive which controls the swiveling movement of the skimmer pan ( 11 ). 36. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 35, characterized in that in or on at least one of the floats ( 12 ) an evaluation unit, an actuator and / or an energy-supplying compressed air store is provided. 37. Self-floating skimmer according to one of claims 1 to 36, characterized in that secondary floats ( 83 ) are attached to the float ( 12 ) and / or the connecting cross members ( 16 ), which extend at least partially into the longitudinal region of the skimmer pan ( 11 ). 38. Self-floating skimming device according to one of claims 1 to 37, characterized in that a composite system ( 98 ) connects several skimming devices to form a skimming chain. 39. Self-floating skimming device according to one of claims 1 to 38, characterized in that the skimming devices ( 3 ) connected to form a skimming chain are installed in a stationary manner. 40. Self-floating skimming device according to claim 38, characterized in that the skimming devices ( 3 ) connected to form a skimming chain are integrated in a towing device.