ES2684404B1 - SYSTEM FOR THE DISCHARGE OF A DRAGED MATERIAL THAT INCLUDES A FLOATING MONOBOYA - Google Patents

Description

SYSTEM FOR THE DISCHARGE OF A DRAGED MATERIAL THAT UNDERSTANDS

A FLOATING MONOBOYA

DESCRIPTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention is related to floating devices. More specifically, to buoys to pour materials in a controlled manner, for example, materials from dredging, minimizing their impact and dispersion of contaminants

Background of the invention

Material dumping operations are usually carried out from the surface of the ships to the bottom of the sea. To avoid the dispersion of materials by water it is usual to use techniques to encapsulate the materials. However, sometimes this encapsulation technique is not feasible and the material disperses in contact with water.

This causes the suspension of the materials poured into the water and therefore causes an increase in turbidity until these materials are deposited in the bottom. The area where the materials end up being deposited is more extensive, even the internal water currents, thermoclines and haloclines can take the deposited material to an inappropriate area.

Therefore, in order to mitigate the environmental impact of this activity, it would be desirable to be able to concentrate the material, avoid dispersion and eliminate turbidity in the entire water column in the discharge zone.

The closest antecedent in the state of the art is document ES1135628U, corresponding to the same inventor. It discloses a circular buoy in which a discharge tube is located in the center and through the buoy, which seeks to pour materials while limiting turbidity to the vicinity of the bottom, reducing the effect of currents and avoiding diffuse contamination Such a device has deficiencies that limit its effectiveness or demand requirements from the support vessel, which is corrected by the constituent elements and the new configuration presented here.

Document E88202515, presents a fabric spill system that has the disadvantage of excluding ships from operations that do not allow the opening of their hull and the descent of dredged material inside the geotextile to the seabed.

Meanwhile, P200930047 teaches a process of pouring dredged materials in continuous state of the art that does not address the problem of minimizing turbidity in the water column.

Next, reference is made to some terms used throughout this document.

By dead, the block of concrete, stone or anchor that is used to fix a floating device to the bed or seabed is understood.

A dredger means a ship equipped with pumps or machinery necessary to remove materials from the seabed for transfer to another location.

By gangster, a flat boat is understood, with the bow and stern in the same way, which is used to deposit granular materials into the sea.

Borneo margin means the free movement of the buoy with respect to the anchoring point or anchorage to the seabed.

An anchoring train means the chain and dead assembly that holds the device to the seabed.

Description of the invention

The present invention solves the problems existing in the state of the art by means of a floating device or monobuoy to confine the material to be poured into a pipeline and lead it to the vicinity of the bottom, limiting turbidity to the final meters. A better distribution of the emptying system is provided, through a hose that facilitates the connection with the ship and avoids interference with signaling systems; better design of equipment spaces and work ergonomics; a hydrodynamic design that reduces the force that opposes currents and waves, especially in open sea operations; and improvements related to shock protection.

The present invention presents a system for the discharge of dredged material from the vessel of any vessel to the bed, by using a system comprising an integrated floating buoy and means for conducting the material to the seabed.

The system is anchored to one or more dead, allowing more specific or zonal spill areas according to the boring margin granted to the anchoring train. Said conduction means comprise three sections, the first section is a floating hose that connects to the side of the monobuoy; the second section is an inverted L-shaped metal pipe that is an integral part of the monobuoy; and the third section consists of non-floating or ballasted pipe, which joins the buoy at its lower end, of length adapted to the depth of anchorage at the point where the monobuoy is installed. The material is discharged into the drive conduction means and is driven to the bottom by gravity. In the monobuoy no pumping equipment is available, this action is carried out from the boat.

With this system the emptying of the contents of the pitcher to the sea is carried out, avoiding the dispersion of the dredged material, allowing it to concentrate its deposition on the seabed, and thus reducing the environmental, ecological and biological impact in the environment of the area where it develops said spill.

In addition, by adjusting the spill area to given limits, the spill point manager could seal it at the top of the spill, using an appropriate material.

Also, when performing the unloading task, the monobuoy also performs the function of signaling the pour point. For this, it incorporates signaling in accordance with the regulations of the IALA (International Association of Lighthouse Authorities) maritime beacon system, including a light signal flashing yellow The flashlight installed in monoboya is an autonomous equipment powered by solar panels.

Brief description of the drawings

Next, to facilitate the understanding of the invention, an illustrative but non-limiting way will describe an embodiment of the invention that refers to a series of figures.

Figure 1 shows a schematic view of the invention by depositing material on the seabed.

Figure 2a shows a top detail view in the direction A of Figure 1.

Figure 2b shows a view: Side detail view corresponding to area B of Figure 1.

Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 4 shows a side view of the monobuoy of Figure 3.

Figure 5 shows a plan view of the monobuoy of Figure 3.

Detailed description of the invention

The pouring monoboya (10) is part of a floating system that is installed in the area destined to the discharge of the materials and that allows the dredging of the dredged materials in an ecological way. Its ultimate function is to manage the dredged material transported in a vessel, gangster or any dredge already operational today, to the vicinity of the bed, minimizing the dispersion of pollutants and turbidity in the area. To do this, you must have the features detailed below.

It has a mooring system at the bottom or anchoring train (3), which according to schematic figure 1 ties the monoboya to one or two dead (4) in such a way that the position of the same in the area destined to the discharge (20), which can be punctual or zonal according to the margin of borneo that is granted to the anchoring train (3).

In figure 2b, the eyebolts (12) arranged to secure the chains of the anchoring train (3) are shown. Preferably, each chain has a lighter first portion and a second heavier portion located near the bottom. Optionally, since the anchoring of the monobuoy is always temporary, a well-sized anchor could be an alternative to anchoring with dead, such as, for example, in situations of low volume discharges.

In the upper part of the monobuoy, there are some mooring points or tails (17) for boats, gangsters or dredges that transport the dredged material. An adequate mooring will allow a margin of borneo to be achieved so that the buoy and ship assembly can move in solidarity with the currents and winds during the entire discharge process.

An integral part of the invention includes the means for conducting the discharge material to the seabed, which allow a continuous gravity discharge. These conduction means are presented as a duct composed of three sections joined together, where:

- the first section is a floating hose (1), which is connected at one end to the monobuoy (10), while the other end is enabled for attachment to the unloading heads of the vessel;

- the second section is an inverted L-shaped metal pipe that is part of the welded structure that constitutes the monobuoy; Y

- the third section is a non-floating hose (2), or ballast, attached to the lower end of the monobuoy, with a length adapted to the depth of anchorage at the point where the monobuoy is installed.

In a preferred embodiment, the floating hose (1) has a quick coupling at its end of attachment to the ship's discharge pipes.

The second section comprises a side inlet flange (11) and a lower outlet flange (13) connected to each other. Thus the second section is adapted to receive the discharge flow from the floating pipe (1) through the inlet flange (11) located at a side of the monobuoy and redirect it to the vertical to transfer the non-floating hose (2) through the outlet flange (13). Optionally, the second section is a curved metal pipe that extends between both flanges (11, 13).

Preferably the connection between the three sections is carried out by means of bolted flanges. The hose (2) can be similar to that used by refineries, usually used in sand discharges for beach regeneration, without flotation. As a lighter and easier to handle alternative, any suitable plastic, rubber or metal tube can also be used. However, it is recommended that it be carried out in segmented sections that are flanged to facilitate transport and installation.

These segmented sections may be slightly flexible to adapt to working conditions. In addition, the hose (2) is arranged independently of the anchoring train (3).

Advantageously, the configuration described here allows that to connect the monobuoy to the ship, gangster or dredge that is going to proceed to the discharge, it is sufficient to only drag the floating hose (1), and not the whole assembly, since there is no load transfer of the section It stays submerged.

Another advantage of the use of the floating hose (1) with respect to a rigid pipe suspended above the buoy, we notice that interference with the signaling systems, located on the upper surface of the monobuoy, in particular a vertical signal (16) is avoided. which according to IALA, includes an "X" mark (San Andres Cross), a polyhedral radar reflector and a light source or flashlight, which by regulation must be yellow, as well as the monoboya body color . The flashlight is configured to emit an intermittent light signal and operates autonomously, powered by strong energy, such as renewable energy, being able to be solar panels, wind generator equipment or other power generation equipment through movement .

In addition, in periods of time in which no material is poured, the hose (1) can be collected around the monobuoy and will be attached to it. Finally, the onslaught of the sea should not be a problem for the type of hose to be used given its flexibility.

Structurally the monobuoy is constructed in two symmetrical halves that are coupled by means of a screwed joint (14). In a preferred embodiment, one of the halves corresponds to the emptying circuit and the other to the tight spaces for monitoring equipment. In addition, each half has a double hull that maintains sufficient flotation volume in the event of a breach in the outer hull of the monobuoy, so that it does not sink. In this regard, the buoyancy characteristics of the monobuoy must be consistent with the weight it must bear due to the anchoring chain (s) (3). Additionally, dividing the buoy into two bodies facilitates its transport in standard ISO containers of 6 or 12 meters (20 or 40 feet).

The geometry of the monobuoy is specially designed to reduce the force that the structure opposes to currents and waves. As can be seen in the plan figures, its periphery has an approximately oval shape, which allows the buoy to orient itself with the currents, reducing the impact of the waves. However, anti-knock systems are provided that include rubber belts or protective straps (15) arranged on the periphery of the buoy to avoid possible blows with floating elements or with ships during the unloading maneuver.

The monobuoy has the capacity to monitor the discharge point and its surroundings, collecting ocean-meteorological data, so that it can self-validate its correct operation. For this, the monobuoy incorporates monitoring means that include a sampling system at different depths, different sensors for ocean-meteorological characterization, an antenna and data transmission equipment, a power system consisting of energy converters from renewable and batteries

Preferably, a non-slip surface is available at the top of the buoy to improve work ergonomics and prevent tool loss.

Advantageously, among the functions of the present monobuoy is marking the anchoring point and also supporting and redirecting the pouring hose to the bottom. In turn, the borneo redistributes the material more evenly avoiding accumulations. Additionally, it is possible to perform a subsequent sealing of the pour point by clean materials As clean materials, uncontaminated sediments of a granulometric nature similar to that of the bottom used can be used.

The monobuoy is especially advantageous to be able to carry out an ecological discharge without staining the water column, that is, without turbidity or dispersion of pollutants, in those dredgers that have a capacity to discharge by bow. That is to say, those that do not have an opening by the keel and can discharge by impulsion by the bow, which is why it is applicable to many current dredges that could be made ecological spills without too much cost.

The maneuver to carry out the pouring is the same as the traditional dredgers used for pouring from the bow by means of floating hoses. In the case of monoboyas, the hose is placed vertically, without it reaching the bottom.

For the emptying of the material it is necessary that the boat includes a low power pumping station. The pumping requirements are minimal, since it is enough to feed water from the environment and by means of it drag the dredged material out of the boat, to the first section of the pipeline.

We note that in operation it is necessary that the lower end of the hose (2) be kept at a distance from the bottom, otherwise, a mound would be created in a localized area, and it would even cover the emptying. The optimal distance from the lower end of the hose (2) to the bed will depend on different factors that include:

- the installation time (full volume of material to be poured);

- the depth at the installation point, which determines the anchoring train and therefore the buoy's borneo radius; if the radius is very wide, the hose (2) can be brought closer to the bed and a smaller dispersion will occur; - the currents and / or the weather conditions, which cause more or less forced dispersion, so that the hose (2) can be approximated more or less to the bed.

However, generically, and without any limitation, two measures are recommended: one for small depths up to 50 m and another for more than 100 m.

A preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to a system for the discharge of a dredged material from the pitcher of any vessel, gangster or dredge, which will proceed to the discharge into the bed, minimizing the dispersion of pollutants and turbidity, and facilitating the connection with the ship and the spill, which comprises a floating monobuoy that is anchored to one or more dead and some means of material conduction towards the bed, in which the material conduction means comprise three sections joined together, where :

- a first section is a floating hose (1) connected between the ship and an inlet flange (11) located on one side of the monobuoy;

- a second section is a redirect circuit of the material that is an integral part of the monobuoy (10); Y

- a third submerged section consisting of a hose without flotation (2) connected to a flange (13) at the lower end of the monobuoy (10).

Wherein, the monobuoy (10) is constructed in two halves that are coupled by means of a bolted joint (14) and in which one of the monobuoy halves (10) comprises the second section.

Preferably the dead are an integral part of at least one anchoring train (3) connected to eyebolts (12) of the monobuoy (10) to define a spill zone (20).

In addition, each anchoring train (3) further comprises a chain with a lighter first portion and a second heavier portion located near the bottom.

In one embodiment, the redirect circuit of the material of the second section is an inverted L-shaped metal pipe that is part of the welded structure that constitutes the monobuoy. Alternatively, the redirecting circuit of the material of the second section is a metal pipe with a curved shape.

Preferably, the connection between the three sections is carried out by means of bolted flanges. Preferably, the floating hose (1) has a quick coupling at its end of connection to the vessel.

Preferably the hose (2) is independent of the anchoring train (3).

Preferably the hose (2) is made in segmented sections that are flanged, allowing its adaptation to the depth of anchorage at the point where the monobuoy is installed.

In addition, each half of the monobuoy (10) has a double hull that maintains a sufficient flotation volume in the event of a breach in an outer hull of the monobuoy.

The monobuoy (10) has an approximately oval shaped periphery.

During the operation, for the discharge of the material the ship includes a low power pumping station.

In a manner consistent with the previous system, the present invention also protects a monobuoy for the discharge of a dredged material from the vessel of any vessel, gangster or dredger, which will proceed to the discharge into the bed, minimizing the dispersion of contaminants and turbidity , and facilitating the connection with the ship and the landfill, which is anchored to one or more dead and that is in cooperation with means of conducting material towards the bed, such that the monobuoy (10) is built in two halves that are coupled by means of a screwed joint (14) and in which one of the halves of the monobuoy (10) comprises a second section of the material conduction means, said means comprise three sections joined together, where:

- a first section is a floating hose (1) connected between the ship and an inlet flange (11) located on one side of the monobuoy;

- the second section is a circuit for redirecting the material that is an integral part of the monobuoy (10); Y

- a third submerged section consisting of a hose without flotation (2) connected to a flange (13) at the lower end of the monobuoy (10).

In one embodiment, the material redirect circuit is an inverted L-shaped metal pipe that is part of the welded structure that constitutes the monobuoy.

In an alternative embodiment, the material redirect circuit is a curved metal pipe.

In that, in addition, each half of the monobuoy (10) has a double hull that maintains a sufficient volume of flotation in the event of a breach in an outer hull of the monobuoy.

Preferably, means for monitoring the discharge point and its surroundings are incorporated, collecting ocean-meteorological data, comprising:

- a sampling system at different depths;

- different sensors for ocean-meteorological characterization;

- an antenna and data transmission equipment; Y

- a power system consisting of converters of renewable energy and batteries.

Additionally, as regulated by IALA, the monobuoy has a flashlight that is configured to emit an intermittent yellow light signal and that operates autonomously powered by renewable energy converters and batteries.

Claims (18)

1. System for the discharge of a dredged material from the pitcher of any vessel, gangster or dredger, which will proceed to the discharge into the bed, which comprises a floating monoboya that is anchored to one or more dead and some means of driving material towards the bed, CHARACTERIZED because the material conduction means comprise three sections joined together, where: a) a first section is a floating hose (1) connected between the ship and an inlet flange (11) located on one side of the monobuoy; b) a second section is a circuit for redirecting the material that is an integral part of the monobuoy (10); Y c) a third submerged section consisting of a hose without flotation (2) connected to a flange (13) at the lower end of the monobuoy (10); where, the monobuoy (10) is constructed in two halves that are coupled by means of a screwed joint (14) and in which one of the monobuoy halves (10) comprises the second section. 2. The system of claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the dead are an integral part of at least one anchoring train (3) connected to eyebolts (12) of the monobuoy (10) to define a discharge zone (20). 3. The system of claim 2, CHARACTERIZED in that each anchoring train (3) further comprises a chain with a lighter first portion and a second heavier portion located near the bottom. 4. The system of claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the redirecting circuit of the material of the second section is an inverted L-shaped metal pipe that forms part of the welded structure that constitutes the monobuoy. 5. The system of claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the redirecting circuit of the material of the second section is a metal pipe with a curved shape. 6. The system of claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the connection between the three sections is carried out by means of bolted flanges. 7. The system of claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the floating hose (1) has a quick coupling at its end of connection to the vessel. 8. The system of claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the hose (2) is independent of the anchoring train (3). 9. The system of claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the hose (2) is made in segmented sections that are flanged, allowing its adaptation to the depth of anchorage at the point where the monobuoy is installed. 10. The system of claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that each half of the monobuoy (10) has a double hull that maintains sufficient flotation volume in the event of a breach in an outer hull of the monobuoy. 11. The system of claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the monobuoy (10) has an oval-shaped periphery. 12. The system of claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that for the discharge of the material the vessel includes a low power pumping station. 13. A monobuoy for the discharge of a dredged material from the pitcher of any vessel, gangster or dredger, which will proceed to the discharge into the bed, which is anchored to one or more dead and that is in cooperation with a means of driving of material towards the bed, CHARACTERIZED because it is constructed in two halves that are coupled by means of a screwed joint (14) and in which one of the halves of the monobuoy (10) comprises a second section of the material conduction means, said means comprise three sections linked together, where: a) a first section is a floating hose (1) connected between the ship and an inlet flange (11) located on one side of the monobuoy; b) the second section is a redirect circuit of the material that forms integral part the monobuoy (10); Y c) a third submerged section consisting of a hose without flotation (2) connected to a flange (13) at the lower end of the monobuoy (10). 14. The monobuoy of claim 13, CHARACTERIZED in that the material redirect circuit is an inverted L-shaped metal pipe which is part of the welded structure that constitutes the monoboya. 15. The monobuoy of claim 13, CHARACTERIZED in that the material redirect circuit is a metal pipe with a curved shape. 16. The monobuoy of claim 13, CHARACTERIZED because each Half of the monobuoy (10) has a double hull that maintains sufficient flotation volume in the event of a breach in an outer hull of the monobuoy. 17. The monobuoy of claim 13, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises means for monitoring the discharge point and its surroundings, collecting ocean-meteorological data, comprising: a) a sampling system at different depths; b) different sensors for ocean-meteorological characterization; c) an antenna and data transmission equipment; Y d) a power system consisting of solar panels and batteries. 18. The monobuoy of claim 13, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a flashlight that is configured to emit an intermittent yellow light signal and that operates autonomously fed with solar panels and batteries