EP0143776B1 - Device for the collection of various substances present in a liquid - Google Patents

Device for the collection of various substances present in a liquid Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0143776B1
EP0143776B1 EP19830901378 EP83901378A EP0143776B1 EP 0143776 B1 EP0143776 B1 EP 0143776B1 EP 19830901378 EP19830901378 EP 19830901378 EP 83901378 A EP83901378 A EP 83901378A EP 0143776 B1 EP0143776 B1 EP 0143776B1
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Prior art keywords
enclosure
liquid
level
currents
substances
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EP19830901378
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0143776A1 (en
Inventor
Jacques Jules Metais
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Individual
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Individual
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    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02BHYDRAULIC ENGINEERING
    • E02B15/00Cleaning or keeping clear the surface of open water; Apparatus therefor
    • E02B15/04Devices for cleaning or keeping clear the surface of open water from oil or like floating materials by separating or removing these materials
    • E02B15/10Devices for removing the material from the surface
    • E02B15/106Overflow skimmers with suction heads; suction heads

Definitions

  • the invention relates to devices capable of collecting substances in a liquid medium, and in particular to collecting devices using the energy of waves in a marine environment.
  • This basin has an external ramp on which, to be able to enter the basin, the waves must first rise to a level which is higher than the level naturally reached by the ridges. It is noted that this device can only operate on the condition that the entry edge and the ramp are upstream of the basin relative to the direction of propagation of the swell.
  • the filling of the basin is indeed only possible insofar as the device uses the kinetic energy of the water particles entrained on substantially circular trajectories, and not only the variations in the level of the surface of the water by relation to the basin.
  • the water which enters the basin can only come from the most superficial region of the liquid medium, and this constitutes a serious drawback, as is the need to orient the ramp and the line very precisely. pool.
  • the device described in patent application EP-0 005 122 is proposed for collecting layers of hydrocarbons on the surface of water bodies. It consists of floating tanks open on the top and communicating freely with the liquid medium through holes drilled in the bottom walls. According to the description of the process given in the document, the incoming waves pass over the edges and pour into the tanks. A certain orientation of the device is therefore involved, the input currents being necessarily oriented in the direction of propagation of the swell. This device does not include any means which would direct the currents which can cross the edges of the tanks and the orifices. In practice, each crest can only possibly bring a small quantity of very light substances.
  • French Patent No. 2,390,551 describes a device comprising a pump set in motion by the action of the swell on a float and a reservoir which communicates with the surface region of the liquid medium by a set of tubes arranged around it.
  • the devices comprising large mobile elements exposed to the effects of waves are poorly suited to the marine environment.
  • the invention makes it possible to use vertical movements of ascent and descent of the surface of a liquid medium with respect to a reservoir to maintain a circulation of liquid between this medium and this reservoir.
  • These alternative vertical movements can be caused by agitation of said surface which does not necessarily have the characteristics of a swell.
  • the streams of liquid likely to bring into the reservoir of the substances to be collected can come from any direction, that is to say that the device does not need to be oriented relative to the direction of propagation of a swell.
  • These currents can arise in the region of the surface of the liquid medium, and also at deep levels within the liquid medium. They can therefore bring into the tank light substances floating on the surface of the liquid, and also substances dispersed within the liquid medium and substances with a density greater than that of the liquid.
  • a wide variety of separation means can be associated with the reservoir depending on the characteristics of the substances to be collected. We can thus conceive various embodiments, each suitable for a specific use, and in particular machines well adapted to the marine environment and suitable for effectively combating accidental or chronic pollution of this environment by using the energy supplied free of charge by this environment. .
  • the device comprises at least one enclosure forming a conduit or a reservoir which communicates freely with the atmosphere and which comprises at least two orifices for communication with the liquid medium, ie at least one inlet orifice, which is equipped a movable closure member, or valve, which allows the passage of incoming currents emerging in the liquid medium and opposes the passage of currents of opposite direction, and at least one outlet orifice, which is equipped with a valve which allows the passage of outlet currents emerging in the liquid contained in said enclosure and opposes the passage of currents of opposite direction.
  • the means for bringing the enclosure into contact with the atmosphere is preferably separate from the orifices for communication with the liquid medium.
  • the device can be made integral with the bottom, or, if it is floating, it includes means determining a certain alternative variation of the relative level. So that the alternative movements verti caux of said surface relative to the device are in themselves sufficient to determine the operation, the lower edge of the inlet orifice is at a level below the highest level which is reached by said surface, in some conditions, relative to the device and independently of any possible effect of the device on the vertical movements of said surface.
  • the process is as follows: when the surface of the liquid medium, or external surface, rises relative to the enclosure, an input current enters the enclosure by opening the valve of the inlet orifice. The surface of the contained liquid, or internal surface, rises. The valve of the outlet orifice is then closed. When the outer surface descends relative to the enclosure, the valve of the outlet orifice opens and an outlet current escapes from the enclosure. The inner surface descends. The inlet port valve is closed.
  • the inlet may have various positions relative to the average level of the exterior surface relative to the device. It is possible that it is continuously submerged, and also that it is successively at least partially submerged and then fully emerged.
  • the outlet may have positions comparable to those of the inlet. The outlet will be located either at the same level as the inlet, at a lower level, or even at a higher level.
  • the device comprises at least one means making it possible to capture the substances to be collected which are brought in by the input currents.
  • Said substances can be liquid, semi-liquid and solid, with densities greater than, equal to and less than that of the liquid.
  • the relative arrangement of the inlet and outlet orifices constitutes a simple means enabling certain substances to be retained in the enclosure.
  • the invention makes it possible to produce devices capable of collecting various floating substances.
  • the inlet ports are then arranged so that the inlet streams can arise in the region of the surface of the liquid medium.
  • the floating substances entrained by these currents will form a surface layer in the enclosure.
  • the lower edges of the inlet openings are located between the upper level and the lower level that the outer surface reaches relative to the enclosure, and the outlet openings open inside the enclosure at a level lower than that passing through the inlet ports.
  • the enclosure includes internal partitions which direct the circulation of the contained liquid. The output currents originate in the lower part of the enclosure, at a certain depth below the layer formed by the light substances captured.
  • the inlet openings are located at a level below the lowest level that the outer surface reaches relative to the enclosure, so that they are continuously submerged, and the lower edges of these openings are located at a certain height above the bottom of the enclosure.
  • the outlet openings are located at a level higher than that of the inlet openings and they are arranged so that the outlet currents can arise very close to the surface of the liquid contained in the enclosure.
  • the device comprises at least one means giving the input currents a sufficient speed so that they can entrain substances of density greater than that of the liquid.
  • a device designed for the collection of floating substances may include inlet orifices having lower edges situated at a level higher than the lowest level reached in the enclosure by the surface of the liquid contained. The interior surface may still be at this level when the exterior surface rises above the level of these lower edges. The input currents can then flow into the enclosure.
  • the closure member, or valve, of at least one of the orifices for communication with the liquid medium is equipped with a control means which prohibits the opening of said valve when the level difference between the outer surface and the inner surface is less than a determined value and which authorizes the opening of this valve when said level difference is at least equal to said value.
  • the alternative variation in the level of the surface of the liquid medium relative to the enclosure can be determined, when the surface is agitated, by a structure ensuring that the enclosure is almost immobile relative to the average level of the surface.
  • the enclosure can also rest on the bottom of an aquatic environment.
  • the device comprises at least one. very low density volume which ensures positive buoyancy in water. This volume also determines, when the surface of the liquid medium is agitated, the said alternative variation of the level of the external surface relative to the enclosure.
  • a device can include take a plurality of compartments, each constituting an elementary enclosure.
  • each compartment comprises at least two stages which communicate with each other by means allowing the passage of internal currents moving from the inlet orifices to the outlet orifices.
  • each compartment can receive either floating substances provided by inlet currents originating near the external surface, or non-floating substances provided by currents taking birth at a certain depth within the liquid medium.
  • the same device can include compartments having different functions. Pumping means will make it possible to evacuate the captured liquid substances.
  • At least one of the horizontal dimensions of a floating device comprising several compartments can be chosen so that a certain variation in the level of the external surface is determined, under given conditions, with respect to each compartment.
  • the device may have a circular shape, the compartments being separated by radial partitions, or an elongated shape of a ship, the compartments then being arranged one after the other in the longitudinal direction.
  • Propulsion and steering means are provided, as are means making it possible to assemble several devices while allowing certain relative movements.
  • the device is a floating dam capable of capturing hydrocarbons floating on the surface of the sea and also capable of conveying these captured substances to one of its ends, the functioning being maintained by the swell.
  • the dam is constituted by a flexible and inflatable floating structure composed of several floats and by pieces of canvas or sheets of flexible material which are connected to each other and to said structure by means of attachment making it possible to separate these elements. .
  • This dam has a plurality of compartments arranged one after the other in the lengthwise direction.
  • Each compartment imprint two superimposed stages which communicate with each other by orifices equipped with valves which allow the passage of currents of downward direction and oppose the passage of currents of opposite direction. All of the upper stages communicate with the liquid medium by inlet openings close to the waterline, and all of the lower floors communicate with this environment through outlet openings located in the lower part.
  • the lower floors communicate with each other through orifices which are fitted with valves allowing the passage of longitudinal internal currents of determined direction from one to the second end of the dam. These valves oppose the passage of currents in opposite directions.
  • Said second end of the dam has at least one discharge orifice.
  • the barrier is flexible, but the flexibility is however limited enough so that vertical movements of ascent and descent of the outer surface relative to each compartment are determined when said surface is agitated. Under the effect of these movements, quantities of liquid coming from the external surface layer are entrained in the upper stages, then in the lower stages where the substances to be collected separate from the liquid contained and float on the surface of this liquid. The water supplied by the inlet streams is driven out through the outlet openings. Longitudinal internal currents appear in the lower stages and entrain the captured substances contained in these stages until the end of the dam having an evacuation orifice. These longitudinal currents are caused by the variable level differences between the quantities of liquid contained in the successive compartments.
  • the canvas walls of the lower floors are very deformable and the volume of each of these floors can vary in certain proportions. Certain differences in level between the external surface and that of the liquid contained in each compartment, the shocks of the crests and certain external surface currents may have a favorable effect on the longitudinal circulation of the substances captured.
  • the barrier comprises means for adjusting the longitudinal flexibility which make it possible to determine a certain amplitude of the vertical movements of the external surface with respect to each compartment.
  • the inflation pressure of the longitudinal floats can be increased or decreased.
  • Longitudinal cables are contained and can slide in sheaths secured to longitudinal floats. Their ends are connected to those of the inflatable structure by means allowing them to be stretched more or less.
  • the boom also includes means for controlling the buoyancy and the equilibrium position, such as variable volume floats disposed on each of the side walls, the said floats located on any of the sides being able to be inflated and deflated independently. similar floats located on the other side of the dam.
  • the movable shutters, or flap which equip the orifices consist, according to one example, of pieces of canvas or sheets of a flexible material associated with nets.
  • the deformations of the valves and the threads and the friction between them will counteract the deposit of viscous substances on these elements which will thus be cleaned almost continuously.
  • Mooring and hauling means are provided, and also connecting means making it possible to assemble several dams end to end and to form a long dam or a large storage enclosure, the wall of which will be constituted by the dam.
  • a storage enclosure will capable of capturing an outer layer of floating substances, or a layer located inside it, and of conveying these substances to tanks.
  • the invention makes it possible to produce simple and robust devices, well suited to the marine environment, and capable of collecting a wide variety of substances using the energy supplied free of charge by the environment. Their operation does not require any fragile mechanical means or sensitive to corrosion.
  • the devices according to the invention can maintain a circulation of liquid between various regions of a liquid medium and an enclosure, which can receive currents coming from a surface region of the external liquid and also currents originating at a certain depth within of this liquid.
  • the streams of liquid entering the enclosure can reach the inlet openings in any direction.
  • the devices according to the invention can therefore operate whatever their orientation, and in particular that of the inlet orifices, relative to the direction of propagation of a swell. This ability facilitates implementation.
  • the inlet ports need not maintain a precise position relative to the average relative level of the surface of the liquid medium.
  • the devices according to the invention can therefore have very varied shapes and dimensions. We can design rigid or deformable devices such as the dam described, capable of operating in very diverse weather conditions, under the effect of a slight agitation of any characteristics of the surface of the liquid medium and also under the effect of 'a strong swell.
  • Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a first embodiment. They represent a device according to the invention capable of capturing floating substances and comprising at least two collecting compartments operating independently of one another. The part of each figure which represents a compartment also illustrates a phase of operation.
  • Figures 3 and 4 illustrate a second embodiment. They represent a device according to the invention capable of collecting substances with a density greater than that of the liquid. It includes at least two autonomous collecting compartments. The part of each figure which represents a compartment also illustrates a phase of operation.
  • Figures 5 and 6 illustrate a third embodiment of a device according to the invention.
  • the device is a flexible and inflatable floating dam capable of capturing oil slicks on a rough sea and of transporting the pollutant to tanks or ships.
  • the left part of Figure 5 shows the external appearance of one of the sides of the dam, the right part of the same figure shows the internal arrangement.
  • Figure 6 is a schematic cross section.
  • a floating tank comprises several independent compartments, each of them communicating with the atmosphere through orifices (2), and with the liquid medium through an inlet orifice (3) equipped with a valve (4) and by an outlet (5) equipped with a valve (6).
  • Boxes (7) and (8) provide buoyancy.
  • Volumes (9) constitute buoyancy reserves.
  • a ballast (10) is placed in the lower part of the tank. Ballasts, not shown, allow adjustment of the equilibrium position.
  • Each compartment includes an entry stage (11) and a lower stage (12).
  • a partition (13) separates these stages which communicate with each other by a large orifice (14) equipped with a grid (16).
  • the lower edges (17) of the inlet orifices (3) are very close to the average level (So) that the outer surface (S) reaches relative to the tank.
  • the outlet openings (5) are located at a level below the lowest level (Sm) reached by the outer surface (S) relative to the tank.
  • the circulation of the interior currents is directed by internal partitions.
  • a certain alternative variation in the level of the surface (S) of the liquid medium, with respect to each compartment, is determined, when this surface is rough, by the very shape of the device.
  • This may include submerged volumes, not shown in the drawings, located at a certain depth below the waterline, so that the amplitude of the vertical movements of the device can be significantly less than that of the swell.
  • the device comprises a certain number of collecting compartments, its draft is small, but at least one of its horizontal dimensions is large enough, compared to the wavelength of the swell, so that some variation in the level of the outer surface with respect to each compartment is obtained.
  • the device may have a circular shape, the compartments being separated by substantially radial partitions. It can also have the shape of a ship's hull, and include a plurality of compartments arranged one after the other in the longitudinal direction, and forming, for example, two parallel series.
  • the device can be balanced so that the lower edge (17) of the inlet orifice is slightly above the lower level (Sm) of the outer surface (S).
  • the interior surface (S ') rises with a certain delay compared to the movement of the exterior surface (S), and the lower edge of the inlet orifice (3) forms a weir when the current d entry (a) begins to manifest.
  • the input currents (a) entrain floating, dispersed or sheet-like substances in the compartments. Solid bodies will be retained in the input stages (11) by the grids (16).
  • liquid and semi-liquid floating substances are entrained in the lower stages (12), where they form the upper layer of the contained liquid. These substances (A) are not entrained by the output currents which arise deep enough below the layer they form. Various separation means will also be usable.
  • Some devices may include a conduit (18) communicating with the lower stages, and making it possible to evacuate, by pumping, the liquid substances captured, either by an emerging evacuation orifice, or by a second submerged orifice.
  • each compartment can be placed in communication with the liquid medium by a filling valve (19).
  • FIGS 3 and 4 of Plate 2 illustrate a second embodiment.
  • the device shown comprises independent compartments, in each of which two superposed stages (11) and (12) are separated by a partition (13).
  • the stages of the same compartment communicate with each other through an orifice (14) equipped with a valve (15) which allows the passage of streams of liquid from the lower stage (12) to the upper stage (11).
  • the lower stage communicates with the liquid medium through an inlet orifice (3) equipped with a valve (4).
  • the lower edge (17) of this orifice (3) is located at a certain height above the wall constituting the bottom (20) of the lower stage.
  • the upper floor (11) has an outlet (5) fitted with a valve (6) and communicates with the atmosphere through openings (2).
  • Boxes (7) and (9) and submerged volumes (21) ensure the buoyancy of the device and determine, when the surface (S) of the liquid medium is rough, a certain alternative variation in the level of this surface relative to the compartments.
  • the draft can be important.
  • the valve (15) closes the orifice (14) for communication between the stages.
  • the inlet (3) can also be closed by a valve (4).
  • An output current (b) arises near the interior surface (S ') which then descends, the output current escapes from the upper stage (11) through the outlet orifice (5).
  • the input currents (a) can be fast enough that substances (B) with a density significantly higher than that of the liquid can be entrained in the lower stages (12).
  • the updrafts (ab) occur discontinuously, and may be slower than the input currents.
  • said substances (B) can separate from the liquid contained in the lower stages and deposit on the bottom (20) of these stages.
  • the valve (4) of the inlet orifice comprises a locking system controlled by a small external float which can rise and fall with the surface of the liquid medium, the downward movement of this float being limited by stubborn. In its lower position, the small float is above the lower level of the outer surface, and the opening of the valve is then prohibited. When the float begins to rise with the outside surface, the valve can open suddenly, allowing a fast input current to pass.
  • a magnetic closing device can also be placed on this valve, or on the valve (15) of the communication orifice (14) between the two stages of a compartment.
  • FIGS 5 and 6 of plate 3 illustrate a third embodiment of the invention.
  • the device is a floating recovery dam capable of capturing oil slicks on a rough sea, separating the oil and the water contained in the captured mixture, and transporting the pollutant to a storage enclosure.
  • Collector compartments (1a), (1b), ... etc, are arranged one after the other from one to the second end of the dam.
  • Each compartment comprises two superimposed stages (11) and (12) separated by a horizontal partition (13).
  • an inflatable structure comprising: a compartmentalized longitudinal float (22), of the same length as the dam and arranged in its upper part, transverse floats (23), each of them separating two stages upper (11), side floats (24), and variable volume floats (25).
  • the walls and partitions consist of fabrics connected to one another and to the inflatable structure by lacings or other removable connection means. All interior spaces can be opened, for cleaning and various checks.
  • Each upper stage (11) communicates with the atmosphere through openings (2) and with the liquid medium via inlet orifices (3), located approximately at the level of the waterline, on one of the side walls (26) .
  • the two floors of each compartment communicate with each other through a large orifice (14).
  • Each lower stage (12) has an outlet orifice (5), located on a side wall (26), in the lower part of this wall.
  • the arrangement of the valves (4), (15) and (6) which respectively equip the inlet (3), communication (14) between the floors, and outlet (5) orifices, authorizes the circulation of liquid originating in the liquid medium near the surface (S), entering the upper stage (11), then in the lower stage (12) and returning to the liquid medium below the surface.
  • the lower floors (12) communicate with each other.
  • the transverse partitions (27), which separate the lower floors, include orifices (28) equipped with valves (29) which allow the circulation of internal currents of determined direction, from one to the second end of the dam.
  • the last compartment, located downstream of the other compartments relative to the direction of this internal circulation, has a discharge orifice on each side wall. Connection means making it possible to fix an external evacuation pipe are arranged near each of these orifices. Closing members are also provided.
  • the valves are formed, according to an example of construction, by pieces of cloth or sheets of flexible material, approximately rectangular. Each orifice has several similar valves. One of the long sides of each part is fixed on a net disposed between the edges of an orifice, the second large side can cover, over a small width, either the fixed edge of another part, or one of the edges of the hole. Deformations and friction of the valves on the threads will cause these elements to be continuously cleaned.
  • Cables or ropes of high resistance contained in sheaths integral with the walls of the dam, are arranged from one to the second end: lateral cables (30), a lower cable (31), whose weight contributes to the stability of the dam. At each of their ends, these cables can be connected to mooring lines or to trailers. A limited slip of each cable in its sheath is authorized.
  • Each end of the dam has connecting means making it possible to connect several elementary dams end to end, and opposing the passage of a sheet of oil between the assembled ends.
  • the flexibility of the dam is determined by that of the upper float (22), the envelope of which carries longitudinal sheaths containing cables (32). At each of its ends, each cable is connected to the envelope of the float by a device making it possible to increase and decrease the tension of this cable.
  • the flexibility of the barrier is thus limited and can be modified, according to the tension of the cables (32), and according to the inflation pressure of the floats.
  • Variable volume floats comprising bellows, are arranged on the side walls (26). Inflation lines make it possible to inflate and deflate separately, from one of the ends of the boom, the floats (25) located on one side and those located on the other side. It is thus possible to modify the level of the buoyancy and also to give the dam a certain inclination, for example to control inclination movements caused by a swell of skew.
  • the end compartment located upstream of the other compartments, with respect to the direction of the internal discharge current (c), comprises a flexible reserve containing a liquid cleaning product. Under the effect of deformations and variations in volume of the lower stage of this compartment, this product may flow in all the lower stages, either continuously or periodically, up to the discharge orifices, and cause the detachment of viscous deposits which could cover the internal walls.
  • Straps placed on the upper inflated structure carry rings or eyelets making it possible to connect the dam to mooring lines and to tow it according to various. configurations. Certain parts of the side fabrics carry reinforcing parts, so that the wear of the fabrics is avoided, in the event of frequent stranding.
  • the plurality of independent floating volumes ensures the buoyancy of the dam, in the event that several floats are deflated.
  • the flexibility of the dam is limited by the construction means described. It may be modified by the mooring means, the orientation relative to a current, and under the effect of towing. Thus, when the sea is rough, a certain alternative variation in the level of the external surface (S) relative to each compartment is determined. During the phases of rise of the external surface (S) with respect to a compartment, the layer of hydrocarbons to be recovered is entrained in the upper stage (11) by an input current (a). The liquid collected can contain a fairly high proportion of water.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Removal Of Floating Material (AREA)
  • Production Of Liquid Hydrocarbon Mixture For Refining Petroleum (AREA)
  • Cyclones (AREA)

Abstract

Devices enabling to collect substances dispersed in a liquid or floating on the surface of a liquid. The device may be configured as a floating barrier, for example a boat or a buoy. It comprises at least a housing (1) communicating with the liquid through orifices (3, 5) fitted with shutters (4, 6), and with the atmosphere through orifices (2). A certain alternating variation of the level of the surface (S) of the liquid with a respect to the housing is determined, and maintains a circulation of streams between the liquid medium and the housing. Substances of various natures and densities, brought by the streams (a) entering the housing are collected by the latter, they may be conveyed up to the discharge ports. The invention may be applied for example to combat chronical and accidental sea pollutions, and to collect various samples of said marine medium.

Description

Domaine techniqueTechnical area

L'invention concerne les dispositifs capables de collecter des substances dans un milieu liquide, et particulièrement les dispositifs de collecte utilisant l'énergie de la houle en milieu marin.The invention relates to devices capable of collecting substances in a liquid medium, and in particular to collecting devices using the energy of waves in a marine environment.

Technique anterieurePrevious technique

L'idée d'utiliser l'énergie des vagues pour remplir des bassins avec de l'eau de mer est ancienne. Le brevet anglais A.D. 1869 n° 2632 décrit un dispositif élévateur comportant un tunnel en forme d'entonnoir recevant les vagues et aboutissant à un conduit vertical fermé par une valve de retenue. Dans le brevet français n° 532 574 publié en 1922, on trouve la description d'un "Procédé d'utilisation de la puissance des vagues" qui consiste essentiellement à disposer, perpendiculairement à la direction de propagation de la houle, un talus incliné sur lequel les vagues s'élèveront suffisamment pour atteindre un réservoir élevé. Ce procédé est à nouveau exposé dans la demande de brevet EP-O 018 340 et appliqué au remplissage d'un bassin contenant des filtres aptes à recueillir des substances rares. Ce bassin comporte une rampe extérieure sur laquelle, pour pouvoir pénétrer dans le bassin, les vagues doivent d'abord s'élever jusqu'à un niveau qui est supérieur au niveau naturellement atteint par les crêtes. On remarque que ce dispositif ne peut fonctionner qu'à la condition que le bord d'entrée et la rampe se trouvent en amont du bassin par rapport au sens de propagation de la houle. Le remplissage du bassin n'est en effet possible que dans la mesure où le dispositif utilise l'énergie cinétique des particules d'eau entraînées sur des trajectoires sensiblement circulaires, et non pas seulement les variations de niveau de la surface de l'eau par rapport au bassin. De plus, selon ce procédé, l'eau qui pénètre dans le bassin ne peut provenir que de la région la plus superficielle du milieu liquide, et cela constitue un inconvénient sérieux, de même que la nécéssité d'orienter très précisément la rampe et le bassin. Le dispositif décrit dans la demande de brevet EP-0 005 122 est proposé pour collecter des nappes d'hydrocarbures à la surface de plans d'eau. Il se compose de cuves flottantes ouvertes sur les dessus et communiquant librement avec le milieu liquide par des orifices percés dans les parois de fond. Selon la description du processus donnée dans le document, les vagues qui arrivent passent par-dessus les bords et se déversent dans les cuves. Une certaine orientation du dispositif est donc impliquée, les courants d'entrée étant nécéssairement orientés dans le sens de propagation de la houle. Ce dispositif ne comporte pas de moyen qui permettrait d'orienter les courants qui peuvent franchir les bords des cuves et les orifices. Pratiquement, chaque crête ne peut éventuellement apporter qu'une petite quantité de substances très légères.The idea of using wave energy to fill pools with seawater is an old one. British patent A.D. 1869 No. 2632 describes an elevating device comprising a funnel-shaped tunnel receiving the waves and leading to a vertical conduit closed by a check valve. In the French patent n ° 532 574 published in 1922, one finds the description of a "Process of use of the power of the waves" which consists essentially in having, perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the swell, a slope inclined on which waves will rise enough to reach a high reservoir. This process is again set out in patent application EP-0 018 340 and applied to the filling of a tank containing filters capable of collecting rare substances. This basin has an external ramp on which, to be able to enter the basin, the waves must first rise to a level which is higher than the level naturally reached by the ridges. It is noted that this device can only operate on the condition that the entry edge and the ramp are upstream of the basin relative to the direction of propagation of the swell. The filling of the basin is indeed only possible insofar as the device uses the kinetic energy of the water particles entrained on substantially circular trajectories, and not only the variations in the level of the surface of the water by relation to the basin. In addition, according to this process, the water which enters the basin can only come from the most superficial region of the liquid medium, and this constitutes a serious drawback, as is the need to orient the ramp and the line very precisely. pool. The device described in patent application EP-0 005 122 is proposed for collecting layers of hydrocarbons on the surface of water bodies. It consists of floating tanks open on the top and communicating freely with the liquid medium through holes drilled in the bottom walls. According to the description of the process given in the document, the incoming waves pass over the edges and pour into the tanks. A certain orientation of the device is therefore involved, the input currents being necessarily oriented in the direction of propagation of the swell. This device does not include any means which would direct the currents which can cross the edges of the tanks and the orifices. In practice, each crest can only possibly bring a small quantity of very light substances.

Le brevet français n° 2 390 551 décrit un dispositif comportant une pompe mise en mouvement par l'action de la houle sur un flotteur et un réservoir qui communique avec la région superficielle du milieu liquide par un ensemble de tubes disposés autour de lui. D'une manière générale, les dispositifs comprenant des éléments mobiles de grandes dimensions exposés aux effets des vagues sont peu adaptés au milieu marin.French Patent No. 2,390,551 describes a device comprising a pump set in motion by the action of the swell on a float and a reservoir which communicates with the surface region of the liquid medium by a set of tubes arranged around it. In general, the devices comprising large mobile elements exposed to the effects of waves are poorly suited to the marine environment.

Expose de l'inventionExhibition of the invention

L'invention permet d'utiliser des mouvements verticaux de montée et de descente de la surface d'un milieu liquide par rapport à un réservoir pour entretenir une circulation de liquide entre ce milieu et ce réservoir. Ces mouvements verticaux alternatifs peuvent être provoqués par une agitation de ladite surface n'ayant pas nécéssairement les caractéristiques d'une houle. Les courants de liquide susceptibles d'apporter dans le réservoir des substances à recueillir peuvent provenir d'une direction quelconque, c'est à dire que le dispositif ne nécéssite pas d'être orienté relativement à la direction de propagation d'une houle. Ces courants peuvent prendre naissance dans la région de la surface du milieu liquide, et aussi à des niveaux profonds au sein du milieu liquide. Ils peuvent donc apporter dans le réservoir des substances légères surnageant à la surface du liquide, et aussi des substances dispersées au sein du milieu liquide et des substances de densité supérieure à celle du liquide. Des moyens de séparation très divers pourront être associés au réservoir selon les caractéristiques des substances à recueillir. On peut ainsi concevoir des formes de réalisation variées, chacune convenant pour un usage spécifique, et notamment des engins bien adaptés au milieu marin et convenant pour lutter efficacement contre des pollutions accidentelles ou chroniques de ce milieu en utilisant l'énergie fournie gratuitement par ce milieu.The invention makes it possible to use vertical movements of ascent and descent of the surface of a liquid medium with respect to a reservoir to maintain a circulation of liquid between this medium and this reservoir. These alternative vertical movements can be caused by agitation of said surface which does not necessarily have the characteristics of a swell. The streams of liquid likely to bring into the reservoir of the substances to be collected can come from any direction, that is to say that the device does not need to be oriented relative to the direction of propagation of a swell. These currents can arise in the region of the surface of the liquid medium, and also at deep levels within the liquid medium. They can therefore bring into the tank light substances floating on the surface of the liquid, and also substances dispersed within the liquid medium and substances with a density greater than that of the liquid. A wide variety of separation means can be associated with the reservoir depending on the characteristics of the substances to be collected. We can thus conceive various embodiments, each suitable for a specific use, and in particular machines well adapted to the marine environment and suitable for effectively combating accidental or chronic pollution of this environment by using the energy supplied free of charge by this environment. .

Le dispositif selon l'invention comprend au moins une enceinte formant un conduit ou un réservoir qui communique librement avec l'atmosphère et qui comporte au moins deux orifices de communication avec le milieu liquide, soit au moins un orifice d'entrée, lequel est équipé d'un organe mobile de fermeture, ou clapet, qui autorise le passage de courants d'entrée naissant dans le milieu liquide et s'oppose au passage de courants de sens contraire, et au moins un orifice de sortie, lequel est équipé d'un clapet qui autorise le passage de courants de sortie naissant dans le liquide contenu dans ladite enceinte et s'oppose au passage de courants de sens contraire. Le moyen de mise en relation de l'enceinte avec l'atmosphère est, de préférence, distinct des orifices de communication avec le milieu liquide.The device according to the invention comprises at least one enclosure forming a conduit or a reservoir which communicates freely with the atmosphere and which comprises at least two orifices for communication with the liquid medium, ie at least one inlet orifice, which is equipped a movable closure member, or valve, which allows the passage of incoming currents emerging in the liquid medium and opposes the passage of currents of opposite direction, and at least one outlet orifice, which is equipped with a valve which allows the passage of outlet currents emerging in the liquid contained in said enclosure and opposes the passage of currents of opposite direction. The means for bringing the enclosure into contact with the atmosphere is preferably separate from the orifices for communication with the liquid medium.

Lorsque la surface du milieu liquide est agitée, cette surface s'élève et descend d'une manière alternative relativement au dispositif. En effet, le dispositif peut être rendu solidaire du fond, ou, s'il est flottant, il comporte des moyens déterminant une certaine variation alternative du niveau relatif. Pour que les mouvements alternatifs verticaux de la dite surface relativement au dispositif soient en eux-mêmes suffisants pour déterminer le fonctionnement, le bord inférieur de l'orifice d'entrée se trouve à un niveau inférieur au niveau le plus haut qui est atteint par la dite surface, dans certaines conditions, relativement au dispositif et d'une manière indépendante de tout effet éventuel du dispositif sur les mouvements verticaux de la dite surface.When the surface of the liquid medium is agitated, this surface rises and falls alternately relative to the device. Indeed, the device can be made integral with the bottom, or, if it is floating, it includes means determining a certain alternative variation of the relative level. So that the alternative movements verti caux of said surface relative to the device are in themselves sufficient to determine the operation, the lower edge of the inlet orifice is at a level below the highest level which is reached by said surface, in some conditions, relative to the device and independently of any possible effect of the device on the vertical movements of said surface.

Le processus est le suivant: lorsque la surface du milieu liquide, ou surface extérieure, s'élève par rapport à l'enceinte, un courant d'entrée pénètre dans l'enceinte en ouvrant le clapet de l'orifice d'entrée. La surface du liquide contenu, ou surface intérieure, s'élève. Le clapet de l'orifice de sortie est alors fermé. Lorsque la surface extérieure descend par rapport à l'enceinte, le clapet de l'orifice de sortie s'ouvre et un courant de sortie s'échappe hors de l'enceinte. La surface intérieure descend. Le clapet de l'orifice d'entrée est fermé. Ces phénomènes se produisent quelle que soit l'orientation du dispositif relativement à la direction de propagation d'une houle. Cette orientation peut être telle, par exemple, que l'orifice d'entrée soit à l'abri des vagues.The process is as follows: when the surface of the liquid medium, or external surface, rises relative to the enclosure, an input current enters the enclosure by opening the valve of the inlet orifice. The surface of the contained liquid, or internal surface, rises. The valve of the outlet orifice is then closed. When the outer surface descends relative to the enclosure, the valve of the outlet orifice opens and an outlet current escapes from the enclosure. The inner surface descends. The inlet port valve is closed. These phenomena occur regardless of the orientation of the device relative to the direction of propagation of a swell. This orientation can be such, for example, that the inlet orifice is sheltered from the waves.

L'orifice d'entrée peut avoir diverses positions relativement au niveau moyen de la surface extérieure par rapport au dispositif. Il est possible qu'il soit continuellement immergé, et aussi qu'il soit successivement au moins partiellement immergé puis totalement émergé. L'orifice de sortie peut avoir des positions comparables à celles de l'orifice d'entrée. L'orifice de sortie sera situé, soit au même niveau que l'orifice d'entrée, soit à un niveau inférieur, soit encore à un niveau supérieur.The inlet may have various positions relative to the average level of the exterior surface relative to the device. It is possible that it is continuously submerged, and also that it is successively at least partially submerged and then fully emerged. The outlet may have positions comparable to those of the inlet. The outlet will be located either at the same level as the inlet, at a lower level, or even at a higher level.

Le dispositif comprend au moins un moyen permettant de capter les substances à recueillir qui sont apportées par les courants d'entrée. Les dites substances peuvent être liquides, semi-liquides et solides, de densités supérieures, égales et inférieures à celle du liquide. La disposition relative des orifices d'entrée et de sortie constitue un moyen simple permettant de retenir dans l'enceinte certaines substances.The device comprises at least one means making it possible to capture the substances to be collected which are brought in by the input currents. Said substances can be liquid, semi-liquid and solid, with densities greater than, equal to and less than that of the liquid. The relative arrangement of the inlet and outlet orifices constitutes a simple means enabling certain substances to be retained in the enclosure.

L'invention permet de réaliser des dispositifs capables de collecter diverses substances flottantes. Les orifices d'entrée sont alors disposés de manière à ce que les courants d'entrée puissent prendre naissance dans la région de la surface du milieu liquide. Les substances flottantes entraînées par ces courants formeront une couche superficielle dans l'enceinte.The invention makes it possible to produce devices capable of collecting various floating substances. The inlet ports are then arranged so that the inlet streams can arise in the region of the surface of the liquid medium. The floating substances entrained by these currents will form a surface layer in the enclosure.

Selon cette forme de réalisation, les bords inférieurs des orifices d'entrée sont situés entre le niveau supérieur et le niveau inférieur que la surface extérieure atteint relativement à l'enceinte, et les orifices de sortie s'ouvrent à l'intérieur de l'enceinte à un niveau inférieur à celui passant par les orifices d'entrée. L'enceinte comprend des cloisons internes qui orientent la circulation du liquide contenu. Les courants de sortie prennent naissance dans la partie inférieure de l'enceinte, à une certaine profondeur au-dessous de la couche formée par les substances légères captées.According to this embodiment, the lower edges of the inlet openings are located between the upper level and the lower level that the outer surface reaches relative to the enclosure, and the outlet openings open inside the enclosure at a level lower than that passing through the inlet ports. The enclosure includes internal partitions which direct the circulation of the contained liquid. The output currents originate in the lower part of the enclosure, at a certain depth below the layer formed by the light substances captured.

On peut aussi, dans le cadre de l'invention, réaliser des dispositifs capables de recevoir des courants prenant naissance à une certaine profondeur au sein du milieu liquide. Ces dispositifs pourront aussi collecter des substances non flottantes. Selon un exemple, les orifices d'entrée se trouvent à un niveau inférieur au niveau le plus bas que la surface extérieure atteint relativement à l'enceinte, de sorte qu'ils sont continuellement immergés, et les bords inférieurs de ces orifices sont situés à une certaine hauteur au-dessus du fond de l'enceinte. Les orifices de sortie se trouvent à un niveau supérieur à celui des orifices d'entrée et ils sont disposés de telle sorte que les courants de sortie puissent prendre naissance très près de la surface du liquide contenu dans l'enceinte. En outre, le dispositif comporte au moins un moyen donnant aux courants d'entrée une vitesse suffisante pour qu'ils puissent entraîner des substances de densité supérieure à celle du liquide. Ces substances se déposeront sur le fond de l'enceinte. Des dispositifs séparateurs complémentaires, tels que des grilles et des filtres, pourront retenir des substances de même densité que le liquide. La section des orifices d'entrée sera choisie en considérant les variations de la quantité de liquide contenu dans l'enceinte qui peuvent se produire dans certaines conditions d'utilisation. Certaines vitesses des courants d'entrée pourront être ainsi obtenues.It is also possible, within the framework of the invention, to produce devices capable of receiving currents originating at a certain depth within the liquid medium. These devices can also collect non-floating substances. According to one example, the inlet openings are located at a level below the lowest level that the outer surface reaches relative to the enclosure, so that they are continuously submerged, and the lower edges of these openings are located at a certain height above the bottom of the enclosure. The outlet openings are located at a level higher than that of the inlet openings and they are arranged so that the outlet currents can arise very close to the surface of the liquid contained in the enclosure. In addition, the device comprises at least one means giving the input currents a sufficient speed so that they can entrain substances of density greater than that of the liquid. These substances will settle on the bottom of the enclosure. Additional separating devices, such as screens and filters, can retain substances with the same density as the liquid. The section of the inlet orifices will be chosen by considering the variations in the quantity of liquid contained in the enclosure which may occur under certain conditions of use. Certain speeds of the input currents can thus be obtained.

Un dispositif conçu pour la collecte de substances flottantes peut comporter des orifices d'entrée ayant des bords inférieurs situés à un niveau supérieur au niveau le plus bas atteint dans l'enceinte par la surface du liquide contenu. La surface intérieure pourra se trouver encore à ce niveau quand la surface extérieure s'élèvera au-dessus du niveau de ces bords inférieurs. Les courants d'entrée pourront alors se déverser dans l'enceinte.A device designed for the collection of floating substances may include inlet orifices having lower edges situated at a level higher than the lowest level reached in the enclosure by the surface of the liquid contained. The interior surface may still be at this level when the exterior surface rises above the level of these lower edges. The input currents can then flow into the enclosure.

Selon une variante, l'organe de fermeture, ou clapet, de l'un au moins des orifices de communication avec le milieu liquide est équipé d'un moyen de commande qui interdit l'ouverture du dit clapet lorsque la différence de niveau entre la surface extérieure et la surface intérieure est inférieure à une valeur déterminée et qui autorise l'ouverture de ce clapet lorsque la dite différence de niveau est au moins égale à la dite valeur.According to a variant, the closure member, or valve, of at least one of the orifices for communication with the liquid medium is equipped with a control means which prohibits the opening of said valve when the level difference between the outer surface and the inner surface is less than a determined value and which authorizes the opening of this valve when said level difference is at least equal to said value.

La variation alternative du niveau de la surface du milieu liquide relativement à l'enceinte peut être déterminée, lorsque la surface est agitée, par une structure assurant à l'enceinte une quasi- immobilité par rapport au niveau moyen de la surface. L'enceinte peut aussi reposer sur le fond d'un milieu aquatique.The alternative variation in the level of the surface of the liquid medium relative to the enclosure can be determined, when the surface is agitated, by a structure ensuring that the enclosure is almost immobile relative to the average level of the surface. The enclosure can also rest on the bottom of an aquatic environment.

Selon une forme de réalisation avantageuse de l'invention, le dispositif comporte au moins un . volume de très faible densité qui lui assure une flottabilité positive dans l'eau. Ce volume détermine également, lorsque la surface du milieu liquide est agitée, la dite variation alternative du niveau de la surface extérieure relativement à l'enceinte.According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device comprises at least one. very low density volume which ensures positive buoyancy in water. This volume also determines, when the surface of the liquid medium is agitated, the said alternative variation of the level of the external surface relative to the enclosure.

Un dispositif conforme à l'invention peut comprendre une pluralité de compartiments, chacun constituant une enceinte élémentaire. Selon un exemple, chaque compartiment comprend au moins deux étages qui communiquent entre aux par des moyens autorisant le passage de courants intérieurs se déplaçant depuis les orifices d'entrée jusqu'aux orifices de sortie. Selon la disposition des orifices d'entrée et de sortie et celle des cloisons internes, chaque compartiment peut recevoir, soit des substances flottantes apportées par des courants d'entrée naissant près de la surface extérieure, soit des substances non flottantes apportées par des courants prenant naissance à une certaine profondeur au sein du milieu liquide. Un même dispositif peut comprendre des compartiments ayant des fonctions différentes. Des moyens de pompage permettront d'évacuer les substances liquides captées.A device according to the invention can include take a plurality of compartments, each constituting an elementary enclosure. According to an example, each compartment comprises at least two stages which communicate with each other by means allowing the passage of internal currents moving from the inlet orifices to the outlet orifices. Depending on the arrangement of the inlet and outlet openings and that of the internal partitions, each compartment can receive either floating substances provided by inlet currents originating near the external surface, or non-floating substances provided by currents taking birth at a certain depth within the liquid medium. The same device can include compartments having different functions. Pumping means will make it possible to evacuate the captured liquid substances.

L'une au moins des dimensions horizontales d'un dispositif flottant comprenant plusieurs compartiments peut être choisie de manière à ce qu'une certaine variation du niveau de la surface extérieure soit déterminée, dans des conditions données, par rapport à chaque compartiment. Le dispositif peut avoir une forme circulaire, les compartiments étant séparés par des cloisons radiales, ou une forme allongée de navire, les compartiments étant alors disposés les uns à la suite des autres dans le sens de la longueur. Des moyens de propulsion et de direction sont prévus, de même que des moyens permettant d'assembler plusieurs dispositifs en autorisant certains mouvements relatifs.At least one of the horizontal dimensions of a floating device comprising several compartments can be chosen so that a certain variation in the level of the external surface is determined, under given conditions, with respect to each compartment. The device may have a circular shape, the compartments being separated by radial partitions, or an elongated shape of a ship, the compartments then being arranged one after the other in the longitudinal direction. Propulsion and steering means are provided, as are means making it possible to assemble several devices while allowing certain relative movements.

Selon une autre forme de réalisation avantageuse de l'invention, le dispositif est un barrage flottant capable de capter des hydrocarbures surnageant à la surface de la mer et capable également d'acheminer ces substances captées jusqu'à l'une de ses extrémités, le fonctionnement étant entretenu par la houle. Le barrage est constitué par une structure flottante flexible et gonflable composée de plusieurs flotteurs et par des pièces de toile ou des feuilles d'une matière souple qui sont reliées entre elles et à la dite structure par des moyens d'attache permettant de séparer ces éléments.According to another advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device is a floating dam capable of capturing hydrocarbons floating on the surface of the sea and also capable of conveying these captured substances to one of its ends, the functioning being maintained by the swell. The dam is constituted by a flexible and inflatable floating structure composed of several floats and by pieces of canvas or sheets of flexible material which are connected to each other and to said structure by means of attachment making it possible to separate these elements. .

Ce barrage comporte une pluralité de compartiments disposés les uns à la suite des autres dans le sens de la longueur. Chaque compartiment ( imprend deux étages superposés qui communiquent entre eux par des orifices équipés de clapets qui autorisent le passage de courants de sens descendant et s'opposent au passage de courants de sens opposé. L'ensemble des étages supérieurs communique avec le milieu liquide par des orifices d'entrée proches de la flottaison, et l'ensemble des étages inférieurs communique avec ce milieu par des orifices de sortie situés en partie inférieure.This dam has a plurality of compartments arranged one after the other in the lengthwise direction. Each compartment (imprint two superimposed stages which communicate with each other by orifices equipped with valves which allow the passage of currents of downward direction and oppose the passage of currents of opposite direction. All of the upper stages communicate with the liquid medium by inlet openings close to the waterline, and all of the lower floors communicate with this environment through outlet openings located in the lower part.

Les étages inférieurs communiquent entre eux par des orifices qui sont équipés de clapets autorisant le passage de courants intérieurs longitudinaux de sens déterminé depuis l'une jusqu'à la seconde extrémité du barrage. Ces clapets s'opposent au passage de courants de sens contraire. La dite seconde extrémité du barrage comporte au moins un orifice d'évacuation.The lower floors communicate with each other through orifices which are fitted with valves allowing the passage of longitudinal internal currents of determined direction from one to the second end of the dam. These valves oppose the passage of currents in opposite directions. Said second end of the dam has at least one discharge orifice.

Le barrage est flexible, mais la flexibilité est cependant suffisamment limitée pour que des mouvements verticaux de montée et de descente de la surface extérieure par rapport à chaque compartiment soient déterminés lorsque la dite surface est agitée. Sous l'effet de ces mouvements, des quantités de liquide provenant de la couche superficielle extérieure sont entraînées dans les étages supérieurs, puis dans les étages inférieurs où les substances à recueillir se séparent du liquide contenu et surnagent à la surface de ce liquide. L'eau apportée par les courants d'entrée est chassée par les orifices de sortie. Des courants intérieurs longitudinaux se manifestent dans les étages inférieurs et entraînent les substances captées contenues dans ces étages jusqu'à l'extrémité du barrage comportant un orifice d'évacuation. Ces courants longitudinaux sont provoqués par les différences de niveau variables entre les quantités de liquide contenues dans les compartiments successifs. Les parois de toile des étages inférieurs sont très déformables et le volume de chacun de ces étages peut varier dans certaines proportions. Certaines différences de niveau entre la surface extérieure et celle du liquide contenu dans chaque compartiment, les chocs des crêtes et certains courants superficiels extérieurs pourront agir favorablement sur la circulation longitudinale des substances captées.The barrier is flexible, but the flexibility is however limited enough so that vertical movements of ascent and descent of the outer surface relative to each compartment are determined when said surface is agitated. Under the effect of these movements, quantities of liquid coming from the external surface layer are entrained in the upper stages, then in the lower stages where the substances to be collected separate from the liquid contained and float on the surface of this liquid. The water supplied by the inlet streams is driven out through the outlet openings. Longitudinal internal currents appear in the lower stages and entrain the captured substances contained in these stages until the end of the dam having an evacuation orifice. These longitudinal currents are caused by the variable level differences between the quantities of liquid contained in the successive compartments. The canvas walls of the lower floors are very deformable and the volume of each of these floors can vary in certain proportions. Certain differences in level between the external surface and that of the liquid contained in each compartment, the shocks of the crests and certain external surface currents may have a favorable effect on the longitudinal circulation of the substances captured.

Le barrage comprend des moyens de réglage de la flexibilité longitudinale qui permettent de déterminer une certaine amplitude des mouvements verticaux de la surface extérieure par rapport à chaque compartiment. La pression de gonflage de flotteurs longitudinaux peut être augmentée ou diminuée. Des câbles longitudinaux sont contenus et peuvent coulisser dans des gaines solidaires de flotteurs longitudinaux. Leurs extrémités sont reliées à celles de la structure gonflable par des moyens permettant de les tendre plus ou moins.The barrier comprises means for adjusting the longitudinal flexibility which make it possible to determine a certain amplitude of the vertical movements of the external surface with respect to each compartment. The inflation pressure of the longitudinal floats can be increased or decreased. Longitudinal cables are contained and can slide in sheaths secured to longitudinal floats. Their ends are connected to those of the inflatable structure by means allowing them to be stretched more or less.

Le barrage comporte aussi des moyens de contrôle de la flottabilité et de la position d'équilibre, tels que des flotteurs a volume variable disposés sur chacune des parois latérales, les dits flotteurs situés sur l'un quelconque des côtés pouvant être gonflés et dégonflés indépendamment des flotteurs analogues situés sur l'autre côté du barrage.The boom also includes means for controlling the buoyancy and the equilibrium position, such as variable volume floats disposed on each of the side walls, the said floats located on any of the sides being able to be inflated and deflated independently. similar floats located on the other side of the dam.

Les obturateurs mobiles, ou clapet, qui équipent les orifices sont constitués, selon un exemple, par des pièces de toile ou des feuilles d'une matière souple associées à des filets. Les déformations des clapets et des filets et les frottements entre eux contrarieront le dépôt de substances visqueuses sur ces éléments qui seront ainsi nettoyés presque continuellement.The movable shutters, or flap, which equip the orifices consist, according to one example, of pieces of canvas or sheets of a flexible material associated with nets. The deformations of the valves and the threads and the friction between them will counteract the deposit of viscous substances on these elements which will thus be cleaned almost continuously.

On prévoit des moyens d'amarrage et de halage, et aussi des moyens de liaison permettant d'assembler bout à bout plusieurs barrages et de former un long barrage ou une vaste enceinte de stockage dont la paroi sera constituée par le barrage. Une telle enceinte de stockage sera capable de capter une nappe extérieure de substances flottantes, ou une nappe située à l'intérieur d'alle-même, et d'acheminer ces substances vers des citernes.Mooring and hauling means are provided, and also connecting means making it possible to assemble several dams end to end and to form a long dam or a large storage enclosure, the wall of which will be constituted by the dam. Such a storage enclosure will capable of capturing an outer layer of floating substances, or a layer located inside it, and of conveying these substances to tanks.

Les principaux effets avantageux de l'invention sont exposés maintenant. L'invention permet de réaliser des dispositifs simples et robustes, bien adaptés au milieu marin, et capables de collecter une grande variété de substances en utilisant l'énergie fournie gratuitement par le milieu. Leur fonctionnement n'exige aucun moyen mécanique fragile ou sensible à la corrosion. Les dispositifs selon l'invention peuvent entretenir une circulation de liquide entre diverses régions d'un milieu liquide et une enceinte, laquelle peut recevoir des courants provenant d'une région superficielle du liquide extérieur et aussi des courants prenant naissance à une certaine profondeur au sein de ce liquide. Les courants de liquide qui pénètrent dans l'enceinte peuvent parvenir jusqu'aux orifices d'entrée dans des directions quelconques. Les dispositifs selon l'invention peuvent donc fonctionner quelle que soit leur orientation, et notamment celle des orifices d'entrée, relativement à la direction de propagation d'une houle. Cette aptitude facilite la mise en oeuvre. Il n'est pas nécessaire que les orifices d'entrée conservent une position précise par rapport au niveau relatif moyen de la surface du milieu liquide. Les dispositifs selon l'invention peuvent donc avoir des formes et des dimensions très variées. On peut concevoir des dispositifs rigides, ou bien déformables comme le barrage décrit, capables de fonctionner dans des conditions météorologiques très diverses, sous l'effet d'une faible agitation de caractéristiques quelconques de la surface du milieu liquide et également sous l'effet d'une forte houle.The main advantageous effects of the invention are now exposed. The invention makes it possible to produce simple and robust devices, well suited to the marine environment, and capable of collecting a wide variety of substances using the energy supplied free of charge by the environment. Their operation does not require any fragile mechanical means or sensitive to corrosion. The devices according to the invention can maintain a circulation of liquid between various regions of a liquid medium and an enclosure, which can receive currents coming from a surface region of the external liquid and also currents originating at a certain depth within of this liquid. The streams of liquid entering the enclosure can reach the inlet openings in any direction. The devices according to the invention can therefore operate whatever their orientation, and in particular that of the inlet orifices, relative to the direction of propagation of a swell. This ability facilitates implementation. The inlet ports need not maintain a precise position relative to the average relative level of the surface of the liquid medium. The devices according to the invention can therefore have very varied shapes and dimensions. We can design rigid or deformable devices such as the dam described, capable of operating in very diverse weather conditions, under the effect of a slight agitation of any characteristics of the surface of the liquid medium and also under the effect of 'a strong swell.

Breve description des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

Les dessins annexés, et les parties descriptives correspondantes exposent l'invention plus en détail. Cependant, l'invention n'est pas limitée aux exemples donnés.The accompanying drawings, and the corresponding descriptive parts explain the invention in more detail. However, the invention is not limited to the examples given.

Les figures 1 et 2 illustrent un premier exemple de réalisation. Elles représentent un dispositif suivant l'invention capable de capter des substances flottantes et comprenant au moins deux compartiments collecteurs fonctionnant indépendamment l'un de l'autre. La partie de chaque figure qui représente un compartiment illustre aussi une phase du fonctionnement.Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a first embodiment. They represent a device according to the invention capable of capturing floating substances and comprising at least two collecting compartments operating independently of one another. The part of each figure which represents a compartment also illustrates a phase of operation.

Les figures 3 et 4 illustrent un second exemple de réalisation. Elles représentent un dispositif selon l'invention capable de collecter des substances de densité supérieure à celle du liquide. Il comprend au moins deux compartiments collecteurs autonomes. La partie de chaque figure qui représente un compartiment illustre également une phase du fonctionnement.Figures 3 and 4 illustrate a second embodiment. They represent a device according to the invention capable of collecting substances with a density greater than that of the liquid. It includes at least two autonomous collecting compartments. The part of each figure which represents a compartment also illustrates a phase of operation.

Les figures 5 et 6 illustrent un troisième exemple de réalisation d'un dispositif conforme à l'invention. Le dispositif est un barrage flottant flexible et gonflable capable de capter des nappes d'hydrocarbures sur une mer houleuse et d'acheminer le polluant jusqu'à des citernes ou des navires. La partie gauche de la figure 5 montre l'aspect extérieur de l'un des côtés du barrage, la partie droite de la même figure montre la disposition interne. La figure 6 est une coupe transversale schématique.Figures 5 and 6 illustrate a third embodiment of a device according to the invention. The device is a flexible and inflatable floating dam capable of capturing oil slicks on a rough sea and of transporting the pollutant to tanks or ships. The left part of Figure 5 shows the external appearance of one of the sides of the dam, the right part of the same figure shows the internal arrangement. Figure 6 is a schematic cross section.

Manieres de realiser l'inventionWays to realize the invention

Selon un premier exemple illustré par les figures 1 et 2, un réservoir flottant comprend plusieurs compartiments indépendants, chacun d'eux communiquant avec l'atmosphère par des orifices (2), et avec le milieu liquide par un orifice d'entrée (3) équipé d'un clapet (4) et par un orifice de sortie (5) équipé d'un clapet (6). Des caissons (7) et (8) assurent la flottabilité. Des volumes (9) constituent des réserves de flottabilité. Un lest (10) est placé dans la partie inférieure du réservoir. Des ballasts, non représentés, permettent un réglage de la position d'équilibre.According to a first example illustrated by FIGS. 1 and 2, a floating tank comprises several independent compartments, each of them communicating with the atmosphere through orifices (2), and with the liquid medium through an inlet orifice (3) equipped with a valve (4) and by an outlet (5) equipped with a valve (6). Boxes (7) and (8) provide buoyancy. Volumes (9) constitute buoyancy reserves. A ballast (10) is placed in the lower part of the tank. Ballasts, not shown, allow adjustment of the equilibrium position.

Chaque compartiment comprend un étage d'entrée (11) et un étage inférieur (12). Une cloison (13) sépare ces étages qui communiquent entre eux par un large orifice (14) équipé d'une grille (16). Les bords inférieurs (17) des orifices d'entrée (3) sont très proches du niveau moyen (So) que la surface extérieure (S) atteint relativement au réservoir. Les orifices de sortie (5) sont situés à un niveau inférieur au niveau le plus bas (Sm) atteint par la surface extérieure (S) relativement au réservoir. La circulation des courants intérieurs est orientée par des cloisons internes.Each compartment includes an entry stage (11) and a lower stage (12). A partition (13) separates these stages which communicate with each other by a large orifice (14) equipped with a grid (16). The lower edges (17) of the inlet orifices (3) are very close to the average level (So) that the outer surface (S) reaches relative to the tank. The outlet openings (5) are located at a level below the lowest level (Sm) reached by the outer surface (S) relative to the tank. The circulation of the interior currents is directed by internal partitions.

Une certaine variation alternative du niveau de la surface (S) du milieu liquide, par rapport à chaque compartiment, est déterminée, lorsque cette surface est houleuse, par la forme même du dispositif. Celui-ci peut comporter des volumes immergés, non représentés sur les dessins, situés à une certaine profondeur au-dessous de la flottaison, de manière à ce que l'amplitude des mouvements verticaux du dispositif puisse être nettement inférieure à celle de la houle.A certain alternative variation in the level of the surface (S) of the liquid medium, with respect to each compartment, is determined, when this surface is rough, by the very shape of the device. This may include submerged volumes, not shown in the drawings, located at a certain depth below the waterline, so that the amplitude of the vertical movements of the device can be significantly less than that of the swell.

Selon une variante, le dispositif comporte un certain nombre de compartiments collecteurs, son tirant d'eau est faible, mais l'une au moins de ses dimensions horizontales est assez grande, comparativement à la longueur d'onde de la houle, pour qu'une certaine variation du niveau de la surface extérieure par rapport à chaque compartiment soit obtenue. Le dispositif peut avoir une forme circulaire, les compartiments étant séparés par des cloisons sensiblement radiales. Il peut aussi avoir la forme d'une coque de navire, et comprendre une pluralité de compartiments disposés les uns à la suite des autres dans le sens de la longueur, et formant, par exemple, deux séries parallèles.According to a variant, the device comprises a certain number of collecting compartments, its draft is small, but at least one of its horizontal dimensions is large enough, compared to the wavelength of the swell, so that some variation in the level of the outer surface with respect to each compartment is obtained. The device may have a circular shape, the compartments being separated by substantially radial partitions. It can also have the shape of a ship's hull, and include a plurality of compartments arranged one after the other in the longitudinal direction, and forming, for example, two parallel series.

Lorsque la surface (S) du milieu liquide est agitée, le niveau de cette surface varie, par rapport à chaque compartiment, entre un niveau supérieure (SM) et un niveau inférieur (Sm). Lorsque la surface extérieure s'élève, par rapport à un compartiment, au-dessus du bord inférieur (17) de l'orifice d'entrée (3), un courant a'entrée (a) prend naissance à proximité de la surface extérieure et pénètre dans le compartiment. La surface intérieure (S') du liquide contenu dans ie compartiment s'élève. L'orifice de sortie (5) est alors fermé par le clapet (6).When the surface (S) of the liquid medium is agitated, the level of this surface varies, with respect to each compartment, between an upper level (SM) and a lower level (Sm). When the outer surface rises, relative to a compartment, above the lower edge (17) of the inlet orifice (3), an inlet current (a) originates near the exterior surface and enters the compartment. The interior surface (S ') of the liquid contained in the compartment rises. The outlet (5) is then closed by the valve (6).

Lorsque la surface extérieure (S) descend, par rapport à un compartiment, une partie du liquide contenu dans la partie inférieure de ce compartiment s'échappe par l'orifice de sortie (5), en formant un courant de sortie (b). La surface (S') du liquide contenu descend. Le clapet (4) ferme l'orifice d'entrée (3).When the outer surface (S) descends, relative to a compartment, part of the liquid contained in the lower part of this compartment escapes through the outlet orifice (5), forming an outlet current (b). The surface (S ') of the contained liquid descends. The valve (4) closes the inlet opening (3).

Le dispositif peut être équilibré de manière à ce que le bord inférieur (17) de l'orifice d'entrée se trouve légèrement au-dessus du niveau inférieur (Sm) de la surface extérieure (S). Dans ce cas, la surface intérieure (S') s'élève avec un certain retard par rapport au mouvement de la surface extérieure (S), et le bord inférieur de l'orifice d'entrée (3) forme déversoir lorsque le courant d'entrée (a) commence à se manifester.The device can be balanced so that the lower edge (17) of the inlet orifice is slightly above the lower level (Sm) of the outer surface (S). In this case, the interior surface (S ') rises with a certain delay compared to the movement of the exterior surface (S), and the lower edge of the inlet orifice (3) forms a weir when the current d entry (a) begins to manifest.

Les courants d'entrée (a) entraînent dans les compartiments des substances flottantes, dispersées ou formant une nappe. Des corps solides seront retenus dans les étages d'entrée (11) par les grilles (16).The input currents (a) entrain floating, dispersed or sheet-like substances in the compartments. Solid bodies will be retained in the input stages (11) by the grids (16).

Les substances flottantes liquides et semi-liquides sont entraînées dans les étages inférieurs (12), où elles forment la couche supérieure du liquide contenu. Ces substances (A) ne sont pas entraînées par les courants de sortie qui prennent naissance assez profondément au-dessous de la couche qu'elles forment. Divers moyens de séparation seront aussi utilisables.The liquid and semi-liquid floating substances are entrained in the lower stages (12), where they form the upper layer of the contained liquid. These substances (A) are not entrained by the output currents which arise deep enough below the layer they form. Various separation means will also be usable.

Certains dispositifs peuvent comporter un conduit (18) communiquant avec les étages inférieurs, et permettant d'évacuer, par pompage, les substances liquides captées, soit par un orifice d'évacuation émergé, soit par un second orifice immergé. En outre, chaque compartiment peut être mis en communication avec le milieu liquide par une vanne de remplissage (19).Some devices may include a conduit (18) communicating with the lower stages, and making it possible to evacuate, by pumping, the liquid substances captured, either by an emerging evacuation orifice, or by a second submerged orifice. In addition, each compartment can be placed in communication with the liquid medium by a filling valve (19).

Les figures 3 et 4 de la planche 2 illustrent un second exemple de réalisation. Le dispositif représenté comprend des compartiments indépendants, dans chacun desquels deux étages superposés (11) et (12) sont séparés par une cloison (13). Les étages d'un même compartiment communiquent entre eux par un orifice (14) équipé d'un clapet (15) qui autorise le passage de courants de liquide depuis l'étage inférieur (12) vers l'étage supérieur (11). L'étage inférieur communique avec le milieu liquide par un orifice d'entrée (3) équipé d'un clapet (4). Le bord inférieur (17) de cet orifice (3) est situé à une certaine hauteur au-dessus de la paroi constituant le fond (20) de l'étage inférieur. L'étage supérieur (11) comporte un orifice de sortie (5) équipé d'un clapet (6) et communique avec l'atmosphère par des ouvertures (2).Figures 3 and 4 of Plate 2 illustrate a second embodiment. The device shown comprises independent compartments, in each of which two superposed stages (11) and (12) are separated by a partition (13). The stages of the same compartment communicate with each other through an orifice (14) equipped with a valve (15) which allows the passage of streams of liquid from the lower stage (12) to the upper stage (11). The lower stage communicates with the liquid medium through an inlet orifice (3) equipped with a valve (4). The lower edge (17) of this orifice (3) is located at a certain height above the wall constituting the bottom (20) of the lower stage. The upper floor (11) has an outlet (5) fitted with a valve (6) and communicates with the atmosphere through openings (2).

Des caissons (7) et (9) et des volumes immergés (21) assurent la flottabilité du dispositif et déterminent, lorsque la surface (S) du milieu liquide est houleuse, une certaine variation alternative du niveau de cette surface par rapport aux compartiments. Le tirant d'eau peut être important.Boxes (7) and (9) and submerged volumes (21) ensure the buoyancy of the device and determine, when the surface (S) of the liquid medium is rough, a certain alternative variation in the level of this surface relative to the compartments. The draft can be important.

Lorsque la surface extérieure (S) s'élève par rapport à un compartiment, un courant d'entrée (a) pénètre dans l'étage inférieur (12), et un courant (ab) franchit l'orifice de communication (14) entre les étages, en ouvrant le clapet (15). La surface intérieure (S') s'élève. L'orifice de sortie (5) est alors fermé par le clapet (6).When the outer surface (S) rises with respect to a compartment, an input current (a) enters the lower stage (12), and a current (ab) passes through the communication orifice (14) between the floors, by opening the valve (15). The inner surface (S ') rises. The outlet (5) is then closed by the valve (6).

Au cours d'une phase de descente de la surface extérieure (S) relativement à un compartiment, la clapet (15) ferme l'orifice (14) de communication entre les étages. L'orifice d'entrée (3) peut aussi être fermé par un clapet (4). Un courant de sortie (b) prend naissance à proximité de la surface intérieurs (S') qui descend alors, le courant de sortie s'échappe hors de l'étage supérieur (11) par l'orifice de sortie (5).During a phase of descent of the external surface (S) relative to a compartment, the valve (15) closes the orifice (14) for communication between the stages. The inlet (3) can also be closed by a valve (4). An output current (b) arises near the interior surface (S ') which then descends, the output current escapes from the upper stage (11) through the outlet orifice (5).

Les courants d'entrée (a) peuvent être suffisamment rapides pour que des substances (B) de densité nettement supérieure à celle du liquide puissent être entraînées dans les étages inférieurs (12). Les courants ascendants (ab) se manifestent d'une manière discontinue, et peuvent être moins rapides que les courants d'entrée. Ainsi, les dites substances (B) peuvent se séparer du liquide contenu dans les étages inférieurs et se déposer sur le fond (20) de ces étages.The input currents (a) can be fast enough that substances (B) with a density significantly higher than that of the liquid can be entrained in the lower stages (12). The updrafts (ab) occur discontinuously, and may be slower than the input currents. Thus, said substances (B) can separate from the liquid contained in the lower stages and deposit on the bottom (20) of these stages.

Au début de chaque phase de montée de la surface extérieure (S) par rapport à un compartiment, la manifestation du courant d'entrée (a) peut être retardée jusqu'au moment où la différence de niveau entre la surface extérieure (S) et la surface intérieure (S') atteint une certaine valeur, ou jusqu'à ce que la surface extérieure atteigne un certain niveau. Selon un exemple, le clapet (4) de l'orifice d'entrée comporte un système de verrouillage commandé par un petit flotteur extérieur pouvant s'élever et descendre avec la surface du milieu liquide, le mouvement de descente de ce flotteur étant limité par une butée. Dans sa position inférieure, le petit flotteur se trouve au-dessus du niveau inférieur de la surface extérieure, et l'ouverture du clapet est alors interdite. Lorsque le flotteur commence à s'élever avec la surface extérieure, le clapet peut s'ouvrir brusquement en laissant passer un courant d'entrée rapide. Un dispositif de fermeture magnétique peut aussi être posé sur ce clapet, ou sur le clapet (15) de l'orifice de communication (14) entre les deux étages d'un compartiment.At the start of each phase of rise of the external surface (S) relative to a compartment, the manifestation of the input current (a) can be delayed until the level difference between the external surface (S) and the inner surface (S ') reaches a certain value, or until the outer surface reaches a certain level. According to one example, the valve (4) of the inlet orifice comprises a locking system controlled by a small external float which can rise and fall with the surface of the liquid medium, the downward movement of this float being limited by stubborn. In its lower position, the small float is above the lower level of the outer surface, and the opening of the valve is then prohibited. When the float begins to rise with the outside surface, the valve can open suddenly, allowing a fast input current to pass. A magnetic closing device can also be placed on this valve, or on the valve (15) of the communication orifice (14) between the two stages of a compartment.

Les figures 5 et 6 de la planche 3 illustrent un troisième exemple de réalisation de l'invention. Le dispositif est un barrage récupérateur flottant capable de capter des nappes de pétrole sur une mer houleuse, de séparer le pétrole et l'eau contenue dans le mélange capté, et d'acheminer le polluant jusqu'à une enceinte de stockage. Des compartiments collecteurs (1a), (1b),... etc, sont disposés les uns à la suite des autres depuis l'une jusqu'à la seconde extrémité du barrage. Chaque compartiment comprend deux étages superposés (11) et (12) séparés par une cloison horizontale (13). La forme et la flottabilité du barrage sont assurées par une structure gonflable comprenant: un flotteur longitudinal compartimenté (22), de même longueur que le barrage et disposé dans sa partie supérieure, des flotteurs transversaux (23), chacun d'eux séparant deux étages supérieurs (11 ), des flotteurs latéraux (24), et des flotteurs à volume variable (25). Les parois et cloisons sont constituées par des toiles reliées entre elles et à la structure gonflable par des laçages ou d'autres moyens de liaison amovibles. Tous les espaces intérieurs peuvent être ouverts, pour procéder au nettoyage et à diverses vérifications.Figures 5 and 6 of plate 3 illustrate a third embodiment of the invention. The device is a floating recovery dam capable of capturing oil slicks on a rough sea, separating the oil and the water contained in the captured mixture, and transporting the pollutant to a storage enclosure. Collector compartments (1a), (1b), ... etc, are arranged one after the other from one to the second end of the dam. Each compartment comprises two superimposed stages (11) and (12) separated by a horizontal partition (13). The shape and the buoyancy of the dam are ensured by an inflatable structure comprising: a compartmentalized longitudinal float (22), of the same length as the dam and arranged in its upper part, transverse floats (23), each of them separating two stages upper (11), side floats (24), and variable volume floats (25). The walls and partitions consist of fabrics connected to one another and to the inflatable structure by lacings or other removable connection means. All interior spaces can be opened, for cleaning and various checks.

Chaque étage supérieur (11) communique avec l'atmosphère par des ouvertures (2) et avec le milieu liquide par des orifices d'entrée (3), situés environ au niveau de la flottaison, sur l'une des parois latérales (26). Les deux étages de chaque compartiment communiquent entre eux par un large orifice (14). Chaque étage inférieur (12) comporte un orifice de sortie (5), situé sur une paroi latérale (26), dans la partie inférieure de cette paroi. La disposition des clapets (4), (15) et (6), qui équipent respectivement les orifices d'entrée (3), de communication (14) entre les étages, et de sortie (5), autorise la circulation de courants de liquide prenant naissance dans le milieu liquide à proximité de la surface (S), pénétrant dans l'étage supérieur (11), puis dans l'étage inférieur (12) et retournant dans le milieu liquide au-dessous de la surface.Each upper stage (11) communicates with the atmosphere through openings (2) and with the liquid medium via inlet orifices (3), located approximately at the level of the waterline, on one of the side walls (26) . The two floors of each compartment communicate with each other through a large orifice (14). Each lower stage (12) has an outlet orifice (5), located on a side wall (26), in the lower part of this wall. The arrangement of the valves (4), (15) and (6), which respectively equip the inlet (3), communication (14) between the floors, and outlet (5) orifices, authorizes the circulation of liquid originating in the liquid medium near the surface (S), entering the upper stage (11), then in the lower stage (12) and returning to the liquid medium below the surface.

Les étages inférieurs (12) communiquent entre eux. Les cloisons transversales (27), qui séparent les étages inférieurs, comportent des orifices (28) équipés de clapets (29) qui autorisent la circulation de courants intérieurs de sens déterminé, depuis l'une jusqu'à la seconde extrémité du barrage. Le dernier compartiment, situé en aval des autres compartiments par rapport au sens de cette circulation intérieure, comporte un orifice d'évacuation sur chaque paroi latérale. Des moyens de liaison permettant de fixer une conduite d'évacuation extérieure sont disposés près de chacun de ces orifices. Des organes de fermeture sont également prévus.The lower floors (12) communicate with each other. The transverse partitions (27), which separate the lower floors, include orifices (28) equipped with valves (29) which allow the circulation of internal currents of determined direction, from one to the second end of the dam. The last compartment, located downstream of the other compartments relative to the direction of this internal circulation, has a discharge orifice on each side wall. Connection means making it possible to fix an external evacuation pipe are arranged near each of these orifices. Closing members are also provided.

Les clapets sont constitués, selon un exemple de construction, par des pièces de toiles ou des feuilles d'une matière souple, approximativement rectangulaires. Chaque orifice comporte plusieurs clapets semblables. L'un des grands côtés de chaque pièce est fixé sur un filet disposé entre les bords d'un orifice, le second grand côté pouvent recouvrir, sur une faible largeur, soit le bord fixe d'une autre pièce, soit l'un des bords de l'orifice. Les déformations et les frottements des clapets sur les filets provoqueront un nettoyage continuel de ces éléments.The valves are formed, according to an example of construction, by pieces of cloth or sheets of flexible material, approximately rectangular. Each orifice has several similar valves. One of the long sides of each part is fixed on a net disposed between the edges of an orifice, the second large side can cover, over a small width, either the fixed edge of another part, or one of the edges of the hole. Deformations and friction of the valves on the threads will cause these elements to be continuously cleaned.

Des câbles ou cordages de forte résistance, contenus dans des gaines solidaires des parois du barrage, sont disposés depuis l'une jusqu'à la seconde extrémité: des câbles latéraux (30), un câble inférieur (31), dont le poids contribue à la stabilité du barrage. A chacune de leurs extrémités, ces câbles peuvent être reliés à des lignes d'amarrage ou à des remorques. Un glissement limité de chaque câble dans sa gaine est autorisé. Chaque extrémité du barrage comporte des moyens de liaison permettant de relier bout à bout plusieurs barrages élémentaires, et s'opposant au passage d'une nappe de pétrole entre les extrémités assemblées.Cables or ropes of high resistance, contained in sheaths integral with the walls of the dam, are arranged from one to the second end: lateral cables (30), a lower cable (31), whose weight contributes to the stability of the dam. At each of their ends, these cables can be connected to mooring lines or to trailers. A limited slip of each cable in its sheath is authorized. Each end of the dam has connecting means making it possible to connect several elementary dams end to end, and opposing the passage of a sheet of oil between the assembled ends.

La flexibilité du barrage est déterminée par celle du flotteur supérieur (22), dont l'enveloppe porte des gaines longitudinales contenant des câbles (32). A chacune de ses extrémités, chaque câble est relié à l'enveloppe du flotteur par un dispositif permettant d'augmenter et de diminuer la tension de ce câble. La flexibilité du barrage est ainsi limitée et peut être modifiée, selon la tension des câbles (32), et selon la pression de gonflage des flotteurs.The flexibility of the dam is determined by that of the upper float (22), the envelope of which carries longitudinal sheaths containing cables (32). At each of its ends, each cable is connected to the envelope of the float by a device making it possible to increase and decrease the tension of this cable. The flexibility of the barrier is thus limited and can be modified, according to the tension of the cables (32), and according to the inflation pressure of the floats.

Des flotteurs à volume variable (25), comportant des soufflets, sont disposés sur les parois latérales (26). Des conduites de gonflage permettent de gonfler et de dégonfler séparément, depuis l'une des extrémités du barrage, les flotteurs (25) situés sur l'un des côtés et ceux situés sur l'autre côté. Il est ainsi possible de modifier le niveau de la flottaison et aussi de donner au barrage une certaine inclinaison, par exemple pour contrôler des mouvements d'inclinaison provoqués par une houle de travers.Variable volume floats (25), comprising bellows, are arranged on the side walls (26). Inflation lines make it possible to inflate and deflate separately, from one of the ends of the boom, the floats (25) located on one side and those located on the other side. It is thus possible to modify the level of the buoyancy and also to give the dam a certain inclination, for example to control inclination movements caused by a swell of skew.

Le compartiment d'extrémité situé en amont des autres compartiments, par rapport au sens du courant intérieur d'évacuation (c), comprend une réserve souple contenant un produit de nettoyage liquide. Sous l'effet des déformations et variations de volume de l'étage inférieur de ce compartiment, ce produit pourra s'écouler dans tous les étages inférieurs, soit d'une manière continue, soit périodiquement, jusqu'aux orifices d'évacuation, et provoquer le décollement des dépôts visqueux qui pourraient recouvrir les parois internes.The end compartment located upstream of the other compartments, with respect to the direction of the internal discharge current (c), comprises a flexible reserve containing a liquid cleaning product. Under the effect of deformations and variations in volume of the lower stage of this compartment, this product may flow in all the lower stages, either continuously or periodically, up to the discharge orifices, and cause the detachment of viscous deposits which could cover the internal walls.

Des sangles posées sur la structure gonflée supérieure portent des anneaux ou oeillets permettant de relier le barrage à des lignes de mouillage et de la remorquer selon diverses . configurations. Certaines parties des toiles latérales portent des pièces de renforcement, afin que l'usure des toiles soit évitée, en cas d'échouages fréquents. La pluralité des volumes flottants indépendants permet d'assurer la flottabilité du barrage, dans le cas où plusieurs flotteurs seraient dégonflés.Straps placed on the upper inflated structure carry rings or eyelets making it possible to connect the dam to mooring lines and to tow it according to various. configurations. Certain parts of the side fabrics carry reinforcing parts, so that the wear of the fabrics is avoided, in the event of frequent stranding. The plurality of independent floating volumes ensures the buoyancy of the dam, in the event that several floats are deflated.

La flexibilité du barrage est limitée par les moyens de construction décrits. Elle pourra être modifiée par les moyens d'amarrage, l'orientation par rapport à un courant, et sous l'effet d'un remorquage. Ainsi, lorsque la mer est houleuse, une certaine variation alternative du niveau de la surface extérieure (S) par rapport à chaque compartiment se trouve déterminée. Pendant les phases de montée de la surface extérieure (S) par rapport à un compartiment, la couche d'hydrocarbures à récupérer est entraînée dans l'étage supérieur (11) par un courant d'entrée (a). Le liquide capté peut contenir une assez forte proportion d'eau.The flexibility of the dam is limited by the construction means described. It may be modified by the mooring means, the orientation relative to a current, and under the effect of towing. Thus, when the sea is rough, a certain alternative variation in the level of the external surface (S) relative to each compartment is determined. During the phases of rise of the external surface (S) with respect to a compartment, the layer of hydrocarbons to be recovered is entrained in the upper stage (11) by an input current (a). The liquid collected can contain a fairly high proportion of water.

Lorsque la surface extérieure (S) descend par rapport à un compartiment, le mélange précédemment capté descend dans l'étage inférieur. Le pétrole surnage à la surface du liquide contenu dans cet étage (12), et une partie de l'eau contenue dans la partie inférieure de cet étage s'échappe par l'orifice de sortie (5) en formant un courant de sortie (b). La séparation du mélange capté peut se poursuivre, dans tous les compartiments, pendant les phases de montée de la surface extérieure relativement à ces compartiments.When the outer surface (S) descends relative to a compartment, the previously captured mixture descends into the lower stage. Oil floats on the surface of the liquid contained in this stage (12), and part of the water contained in the lower part of this stage escapes through the outlet orifice (5) by forming an outlet current ( b). The separation of the captured mixture can continue, in all the compartments, during the phases of rise of the external surface relative to these compartments.

Les courants intérieurs longitudinaux (c), qui circulent au-dessous de la cloison horizontale (13), entraînent la couche superficielle du liquide contenu dans les étages inférieurs, et donc les hydrocarbures captés, jusqu'aux orifices d'évacuation, lesquels sont éventuellement reliés à des citernes de stockage.The longitudinal internal currents (c), which circulate below the horizontal partition (13), carry the surface layer of the liquid contained in the lower stages, and therefore the captured hydrocarbons, up to the discharge orifices, which are possibly connected to storage tanks.

La description qui précède montre que l'invention embrasse un ensemble de dispositifs dont les formes, les dimensions, la disposition des divers éléments, les matières constitutives et les applications peuvent être très variées, ainsi que les modifications, variantes et applications pouvant être conçues par l'homme de l'art.The foregoing description shows that the invention embraces a set of devices whose shapes, dimensions, arrangement of the various elements, constituent materials and applications can be very varied, as well as the modifications, variants and applications that can be designed by one skilled in the art.

Exploitation industrielleIndustrial operations

Parmi les diverses applications on peut citer:

  • - La lutte contre les pollutions chroniques et accidentelles du milieu marin. On peut réaliser des dispositifs rigides de diverses formes capables d'assainir certaines zones d'un littoral par une action de très longue durée. Le barrage flexible qui est décrit peut être déployé en mer pour récupérer des hydrocarbures avant que les nappes n'atteignent les côtes, et dans des conditions climatiques qui pourraient interdire l'emploi d'autres dispositifs.
  • - La collecte de substances dispersées dans l'eau de mer, telles que des substances rares, et cela au moyen de dispositifs aptes à recevoir des courants prenant naissance à une certaine profondeur au sein du milieu liquide.
  • - La collecte d'échantillons de la biomasse maritime.
Among the various applications we can cite:
  • - The fight against chronic and accidental pollution of the marine environment. Rigid devices of various forms can be produced capable of cleaning up certain areas of a coastline by a very long-lasting action. The flexible dam which is described can be deployed at sea to recover hydrocarbons before the aquifers reach the coasts, and in climatic conditions which could prohibit the use of other devices.
  • - The collection of substances dispersed in sea water, such as rare substances, and this by means of devices capable of receiving currents originating at a certain depth within the liquid medium.
  • - Collecting samples of maritime biomass.

Claims (12)

1. A device for gathering some substances from a liquid, such as the devices which can use the energy of the sea-waves for collecting various substances, these devices having at least one enclosure (1) forming a basin or a tank in communication with the atmosphere and with the liquid element, this enclosure having at least one inlet aperture (3) through which the external liquid can flow into the enclosure and carry the substances to be gathered, and the enclosure having at least one outlet aperture (5) through which currents can flow out from the enclosure, said outlet aperture being fitted out with a mobile closing organ (6), or valve, which determines a one-way flow of the currents which can flow through the aperture, this enclosure comprising also a means for collecting some substances carried in the liquid which can flow into the enclosure through said inlet aperture, characterized in that said inlet aperture is an inlet opening (3) which is fitted with a valve (4), said valve (4) allowing the passage of entering currents (a) coming from the liquid element and barring the way to opposite currents, and that said inlet opening (3) has a lower edge (17) which is positioned at a level which is beneath the highest level (SM) that the surface (S) of the liquid element reaches near the device in a way which is independent of any possible effect of the device on the motions of the said surface, so that alternate vertical motions of the surface (S) of the liquid element in relation to the said enclosure (1) may bring about by themselves a flow of liquid between the liquid element and the enclosure (1), and that the said vertical motions and the said flow may occur under the effect of any roughness of the said surface (S).
2. A device according to the claim 1, further characterized in that the lower edges (17) of the inlet openings (3) are positioned between the higher level (SM) and the lower level (Sm) that the surface (S) of the liquid element reaches in relation to the enclosure (1), in that the outlet apertures (5) are opened in the enclosure at a level which is beneath the level of the inlet openings (3), and also in that the enclosure has inner partitions (13) which direct the flow of the contained liquid, so that the said enclosure may receive entering currents (a) originating in the vicinity of the surface of the liquid element, and that it may collect floating substances (A) which are carried by these currents.
3. A device according to the claim 1, further characterized in that the said inlet apertures (3) are placed at a level which is beneath the lowest level (Sm) that the surface (S) of the liquid element may reach in relation to the enclosure (1), so that they may be continuously completely submerged; in that the lower edges (17) of these inlet apertures (3) are positioned at a certain level above the wall (20), this wall being the bottom of the enclosure; and in that the outlet apertures (5) are placed at a level which is above the level of the inlet apertures (3); and also in that it includes at least one means which gives to the entering currents (a) a speed which is high enough for these currents to carry into the enclosure substances (B) having a density higher than the density of the liquid, in such a way that the said substances (B) may form a deposit on the bottom (20) of the enclosure without being dragged along with the outflows (b) which originate close to the surface (S') of the liquid which is contained inside the enclosure.
4. A device according to the claims 1 or 2, further characterized in that the lower edge (17) of at least one of the inlet apertures (3) is positioned at a level which is above the lowest level (S'm) that the surface (S') of the contained liquid may reach inside the enclosure (1), so that, since the surface (S') of the contained liquid does not rise as long as no entering currents (a) occur, the said lower edge (17) may be an overflow when the surface (S) of the liquid element rises above the level of that lower edge.
5. A device according to the claims 1, 2 or 3, further characterized in that at least one of the apertures (3), (5), through which the enclosure may communicate with the liquid element, is fitted with a means of control of the valve (4), (6), placed at the aperture, the said means of control preventing the opening of the valve as long as the difference in level between the surface (S) of the liquid element and the surface (S') of the contained liquid has not reached a definite value, and the opening of the said valve being possible when the said difference in level reaches and exceeds the said definite value.
6. A device according to any one of the claims 1 to 5, further characterized in that it comprises floating means providing that device with a positive buoyancy in water; in that the said enclosure (1) includes a plurality of compartments, each one of them being an elementary enclosure; in that each one of the said compartments comprises at least two floors (11), (12), which communicate through at least one opening (14), which is fitted with a valve (15) allowing a flow of currents in one way only, and in that the floating means are arranged in such a manner that they may determine an alternate variation of the level of the surface of the liquid element, in relation to each compartment, when that surface is rough.
7. A device according to the claims 1, 2, 4 or 6, further characterized in that it comprises a flexible, inflatable structure which gives it the general very elongated shape of a floating barrage, the said inflatable structure being composed of several bodies of floats (22), (23), (24), which are joined together, and of thin walls which are made up of pieces of cloth or sheets of a supple material, the said walls being linked up together and to the inflatable structure by fastening means which allow for fast assembling and separation; in that it includes a plurality of compartments (1a), (1b), etc...., which are placed lengthwise one behind the other; in that each compartment comprises two superposed floors (11), (12), which are in communication one with the other through openings (14) equipped with valves (15) which allow the flow of downwards inner currents (ab) and bar the way to currents in the opposite direction; in that the set of the upper floors (11) is in communication with the liquid element through inlet apertures (3) fitted with valves (4); and in that the set of the lower floors (12) is in communication with the liquid element through outlet apertures (5) fitted with valves (6); and further in that all the lower floors (12) are in communication one with another through openings (28) fitted with valves (29) which allow the passage of inner longitudinal currents (c) flowing in a definite direction from one end up to the second end of the device, the valves barring the way to opposite currents, the said second end having at least one evacuation aperture; this device thus constitutes a floating barrage capable of collecting hydrocarbons floating on the sea surface, and also of carrying the hydrocarbon inside its constituent envelope to evacuation apertures which are close to one of the ends.
8. A device according to the claim 7, further characterized in that it comprises means for controlling the longitudinal flexibility, these means giving the possibility to act on the amplitude of the alternate vertical motions of the surface (S) of the liquid element in relation to each compartment; in that the said means for controlling the flexibility consist of longitudinal cables (32) which can slide inside sheaths, these sheaths being fixed on an inflatable volume (22) which is placed from one end to the other end of the device, the ends of these cables (32) being connected to the ends of the device by systems which make it possible to tighten or slacken these cables; and also in that it comprises means which can control the buoyancy and the equilibrium in water and which consist of adjustable floats (25), the volume of which can be varied, these floats (25) being placed on each one of the lateral walls (26) and the adjustable floats placed on one of the sides of the device being inflatable and deflatable independently of the similar floats which are placed on the other side.
9. A device according to the claims 7 and 8, further characterized in that it comprises deformable valves which are made of pieces of cloth or of sheets of a supple material; in that these valves are associated with meshes, in such a manner that the deformation of the valves and the meshes as well as the rubbing occuring between them may bring about an almost continuous cleaning of these elements; and in that it includes some deformable pockets which can contain a cleaning product and which are capable of letting the said product flow inside the device.
10. A device according to the claims 7, 8, 9, further characterized in that the said inflatable structure, which is composed of several sets of floats (22), (23), (24), linked together, comprises transversal floats (23), each one of the said transversal floats (23) dividing two upper floors (11) one from the other.
11. A device according to any one of the claims 7 to 10, further characterized in that it is provided with connecting means which makes it possible to construct a floating enclosure; in that the said enclosure has walls which make it able to collect a slick of floating substances outside the enclosure and also able to collect a slick inside itself and able to carry the collected substances towards tanks.
12. A device according to any one of the claims 1 to 6, further characterized in that it has the shape of the hull of a boat with a shallow draft; in that it includes a plurality of collecting compartments (1a), (1b), etc..., which are placed lengthways one behind the other and compose at least one series; in that this device is rigid; and in that the length of this device is long enough, with respect to the wavelength of the swell, for a certain variation of the level of the external surface (S) in relation to each one of the said compartments to be obtained.
EP19830901378 1983-05-04 1983-05-04 Device for the collection of various substances present in a liquid Expired EP0143776B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/FR1983/000086 WO1984004340A1 (en) 1983-05-04 1983-05-04 Device for the collection of various substances present in a liquid

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0143776A1 EP0143776A1 (en) 1985-06-12
EP0143776B1 true EP0143776B1 (en) 1988-08-31

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EP19830901378 Expired EP0143776B1 (en) 1983-05-04 1983-05-04 Device for the collection of various substances present in a liquid

Country Status (4)

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EP (1) EP0143776B1 (en)
AU (1) AU1513083A (en)
DE (1) DE3377875D1 (en)
WO (1) WO1984004340A1 (en)

Family Cites Families (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3710943A (en) * 1970-03-05 1973-01-16 W Davidson Variable displacement fence for oil spill containment and recovery
GB1324433A (en) * 1971-11-22 1973-07-25 Royal G W F Method of and apparatus for removing oil from the surface of water
CH620957A5 (en) * 1978-04-24 1980-12-31 Ernest Favre
SE417913B (en) * 1979-04-18 1981-04-27 Lagstroem Emil Goeran SET AND DEVICE TO SEE WORLDWIDE WATERFUL LIQUID, LOST AND SUSPENDED SUBJECTS
DE3021040A1 (en) * 1980-06-03 1981-12-10 Herbert 8130 Starnberg Ertl Oil slick removed by floating sepn. tanks - each with water extraction pump at variable level in tank
FR2516069B1 (en) * 1981-11-06 1985-05-31 Metais Jacques DEVICE FOR CAPTURING VARIOUS SUBSTANCES IN A LIQUID

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU1513083A (en) 1984-11-19
DE3377875D1 (en) 1988-10-06
WO1984004340A1 (en) 1984-11-08
EP0143776A1 (en) 1985-06-12

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