Microplastic recycling device and microplastic recycling system

Abstract

Provided is a microplastic recovery device and a microplastic recovery system that can collect a microplastic sample recovered from environmental water taken into a ship and manage it appropriately and efficiently. The microplastic recovery device (40) of the present invention includes a water taking section (41) that takes environmental water from an environmental water line (L4) through which environmental water flows, a flow rate adjusting section (42) that adjusts the flow rate of the environmental water taken by the water taking section (41), a flow rate detecting section (43, 45) that detects the flow rate of the environmental water taken by the water taking section (41), a filter device (46) that has a filter (53) that filters the environmental water taken by the water taking section (41), and a control device (information management device) (100) that manages water taking information related to the taking state of the microplastic taken by the filter device.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a microplastic recovery device that collects microplastics from environmental water and a microplastic recovery system. This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-174926 filed in Japan on October 16, 2020, and the contents thereof are hereby incorporated by reference. BACKGROUND

[0002] In a cargo ship, an oil tanker, or the like, a technique is known in which environmental water such as seawater is taken into a ship in order to cool equipment such as a main engine, a generator, an intercooler, a turbocharger, or the like, in order to obtain ballast water, or for other purposes. Such a technique is described, for example, in Patent Documents 1 and 2.

[0003] In Patent Document 1, a seawater cooling system of a ship is described, which has a main cooling seawater pump that supplies seawater to a main engine and a cooling fresh water cooler for auxiliary machinery, and an auxiliary cooling seawater pump that supplies seawater to the cooling fresh water cooler for auxiliary machinery or a main engine EGR equipment cooling system for the main engine.

[0004] In Patent Document 2, a central fresh water cooling system of a ship is described, which cools equipment mounted on the ship by circulating fresh water in a circulating flow path, and exchanges heat between the fresh water and seawater taken into the ship from the outside by a seawater pump using a heat exchanger at a midway point of the circulating flow path.

[0005] In addition, as a patent document that describes a technique for removing garbage and aquatic organisms contained in environmental water taken into a ship in order to prevent failure such as clogging of a heat exchanger or a pipe, Patent Document 3 exists.

[0006] In Patent Document 3, it is described that a seawater filter is provided to a seawater cooling pipe of a marine diesel engine that uses seawater as cooling water, for the purpose of preventing garbage in the seawater from being sucked in. The seawater filter is provided to the seawater cooling pipe that has a sea valve at the inlet side and is connected to a seawater pump of the marine diesel engine at the outlet side. The seawater filter is configured to, when garbage clogging is confirmed in the seawater filter after a certain period of operation, automatically discharge the accumulated garbage to the outside of the ship by operating a bilge pump on the basis of closing the sea valve.

[0007] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0008] PATENT DOCUMENTS

[0009] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-95164

[0010] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-34763

[0011] Patent Literature 3: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open (JP A) No. 10-121967 SUMMARY

[0012] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0013] In recent years, it has become an urgent issue to grasp the state of pollution of the sea caused by microplastics. It is considered that if a ship having a large range of movement such as a cargo ship or a tanker is utilized in the monitoring of the sea pollution caused by microplastics, information of various sea areas and time periods can be obtained. In addition, it is also assumed that a general crew member on such a merchant ship takes charge of the collection and storage of a sample for microplastic analysis. A technique by which even a person who is not a technical person or a researcher of environmental monitoring can collect a microplastic sample from environmental water taken into a ship and properly manage it together with the record of information at the time of collection is sought.

[0014] An object of the present application is to provide a microplastic recovery device and a microplastic recovery system by which a microplastic sample can be collected from environmental water taken into a ship and properly and efficiently managed.

[0015] MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0016] The present application relates to a microplastic recovery device which is installed on a ship and recovers microplastics contained in environmental water taken into the ship, wherein the microplastic recovery device comprises: a water sampling section which takes environmental water from an environmental water line through which environmental water flows; a flow rate adjusting section which adjusts the flow rate of the environmental water taken by the water sampling section; a flow rate detecting section which detects the flow rate of the environmental water taken by the water sampling section; a filtration device which has a filter that filters the environmental water taken by the water sampling section; and an information management device which manages water sampling information related to the state of taking of microplastics taken by the filtration device.

[0017] Preferably, the information management device comprises: a water sampling information taking section which takes the water sampling information including time information at the time of taking of microplastics, place information, and the amount of filtered water filtered by the filtration device; a storage section which stores the water sampling information taken by the water sampling information taking section; and a sample identification information output section which outputs sample identification information for identifying a microplastic sample corresponding to the water sampling information and with which the water sampling information is associated.

[0018] Preferably, the water sampling information further includes ship identification information based on the kind of the ship.

[0019] Preferably, the water sampling section has: a straight section which is disposed coaxially inside a straight pipe section of a circular pipe-shaped straight pipe section of the environmental water line, opens at one end side toward the upstream side of the environmental water line, and extends toward the downstream side of the environmental water line; and a bent section which is continuous with the other end side of the straight section and extends in a bent manner with respect to the straight section.

[0020] Preferably, the flow rate adjusting portion is used to adjust the flow rate of the environmental water in such a manner that the speed of the water flowing outside the straight portion in the environmental water line is equal to the speed of the water flowing inside the straight portion.

[0021] Preferably, the filter device further has a filter housing that houses the filter, and the filter housing is configured to be detachable with respect to the filter device.

[0022] Preferably, the filter device further has a backwash mechanism that supplies water to the filter device in a direction opposite to the direction in which the environmental water flows, and performs backwashing of the filter device, and a backwash water storage portion that stores backwash water after the filter device has been backwashed by the backwash mechanism.

[0023] Preferably, the backwash water storage portion is configured to be detachable with respect to the filter device.

[0024] Preferably, the microplastic recovery device further has a flow rate control portion that controls the start and end of the filtration performed by the filter device by controlling the flow rate adjusting portion.

[0025] In addition, the present application relates to a microplastic recovery system that is installed on a ship and recovers microplastics contained in environmental water taken into the ship, wherein the microplastic recovery system has a water intake line that takes environmental water into the ship, a water intake pump disposed in the water intake line, a heat exchanger that uses environmental water flowing through the water intake line as cooling water, a water discharge line that discharges environmental water that has been heat-exchanged by the heat exchanger, and a microplastic recovery device that recovers environmental water taken through the water intake line, the microplastic recovery device having a water sampling portion that takes environmental water from an environmental water line through which environmental water flows, a flow rate adjusting portion that adjusts the flow rate of environmental water taken by the water sampling portion, a flow rate detecting portion that detects the flow rate of environmental water taken by the water sampling portion, a filter device that has a filter that filters environmental water taken by the water sampling portion, and an information management device that manages water sampling information related to the state of acquisition of microplastics acquired by the filter device.

[0026] Effects of the Invention

[0027] According to the present application, it is possible to provide a microplastic recovery device and a microplastic recovery system that can appropriately and efficiently manage microplastic samples collected from environmental water taken into a ship. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0028] Figure 1 is a schematic view of a microplastic recovery system according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0029] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing a first example of the structure of the water intake unit and the filtration device in this embodiment.

[0030] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing a second example of the structure of the filtration device according to this embodiment.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing the functional structure of the control device included in the microplastic recycling device of this embodiment.

[0032] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the management process of the microplastic recycling device according to this embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0033] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a microplastic recycling system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] The microplastics recycling system 1 is installed on the ship 2. The microplastics recycling system 1 has the function of recycling microplastics from water (hereinafter referred to as environmental water) obtained from the environment of the ship 2, such as cooling water used to cool the equipment 3 being cooled. The equipment being cooled 3 is, for example, an internal combustion engine such as an engine.

[0035] <Overall Structure>

[0036] The overall structure of the microplastic recovery system 1 will be described. It should be noted that in this embodiment, microplastics are obtained as a microplastic sample, including filtration residue and filtration material. The microplastic sample can be a sample containing filtration residue and filtration material, or it can be a sample identified based on a prescribed identification method according to the filtration residue. Furthermore, in the following description, "line" refers to any line that allows fluid to flow, such as a flow path, channel, or pipe.

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown, the microplastic recycling system 1 includes a water intake line L1, a first water intake branch line L11, a second water intake branch line L12, a first water intake pump 11, a second water intake pump 12, a central cooler 4, a cooling water circulation line L30, a first cooling water branch line L31, a first cooling water pump 31, a second cooling water branch line L32, a second cooling water pump 32, a drainage line L3, an ambient water line L4, a microplastic recycling device 40, and a control device 100.

[0038] The water intake line L1 is a line that takes in environmental water (e.g., sea water, salt and fresh water, fresh water) on the outside of the ship 2 to the inside of the ship 2. The water intake port provided at the end portion (upstream side end portion) of the water intake line L1 is located at a position where environmental water can be taken in, such as a position lower than the sea surface.

[0039] The water intake line L1 is configured to branch into a first water intake branch line L11 and a second water intake branch line L12 midway and then converge again. The first water intake pump 11 is provided in the first water intake branch line L11, and the second water intake pump 12 is provided in the second water intake branch line L12. Environmental water is taken in from the outside of the ship 2 to the inside by the water intake line L1 by driving at least either one of the first water intake pump 11 and the second water intake pump 12.

[0040] The central cooler 4 is a heat exchanger provided in the cooling water circulation line L30. The downstream side end portion of the water intake line L1 after the convergence is connected to the central cooler 4, and environmental water taken in to the inside of the ship 2 by the water intake line L1 is supplied to the central cooler 4 as cooling water for heat exchange.

[0041] The cooling water circulation line L30 is configured in a ring shape, and the cooled equipment 3 is provided in addition to the central cooler 4. A heat medium that is cooled by heat exchange with environmental water is circulated in this cooling water circulation line L30, and the cooled equipment 3 is cooled by the cooled heat medium.

[0042] In addition, the cooling water circulation line L30 is configured to branch into a first cooling water branch line L31 and a second cooling water branch line L32 midway and then converge again. The first cooling water pump 31 is provided in the first cooling water branch line L31, and the second cooling water pump 32 is provided in the second cooling water branch line L32. The aforementioned heat medium is circulated in the cooling water circulation line L30 by driving at least either one of the first cooling water pump 31 and the second cooling water pump 32.

[0043] The upstream side end portion of the drain line L3 is connected to the central cooler 4. The drain line L3 supplies environmental water that has been subjected to heat exchange in the central cooler 4 to flow therethrough. The environmental water after the heat exchange is discharged to the outside of the ship 2 by the drain line L3.

[0044] The environmental water line L4 is a line for taking a sample of environmental water containing microplastics, and is connected to the water taking line L1. The upstream end of the environmental water line L4 of the present embodiment is connected to a position in the water taking line L1 that is downstream of the point at which the first water taking branch line L11 and the second water taking branch line L12 join. In addition, the downstream end of the environmental water line L4 is connected to the water taking line L1 just before the central cooler 4. The environmental water line L4 circulates a portion of the environmental water that is sent to the central cooler 4. Note that the environmental water line L4 is preferably provided in the vicinity of the water taking pump on the downstream side of the water taking pump. This is to suppress the effects of the stagnation of plankton in the water, the adhesion to the pipe wall surface, the peeling from the pipe wall surface, and the like when there is a stagnation site in the pipe line.

[0045] <Structure of microplastic recovery device>

[0046] The microplastic recovery device 40 is provided in the environmental water line L4, and samples a portion of the environmental water (cooling water) that circulates in the environmental water line L4. The environmental water that is not recovered by the microplastic recovery device 40 is joined to the water taking line L1, and is sent to the central cooler 4.

[0047] The microplastic recovery device 40 of the present embodiment is provided with a water sampling section 41, a flow rate adjusting section 42 that adjusts the flow rate of the environmental water of the water sampling section 41, a flow rate detecting section 43 that detects the flow rate of the environmental water of the water sampling section 41, a water quality detecting section 44 that detects the water quality of the environmental water, a flow rate detecting section 45 that detects the flow rate of the environmental water that circulates in the environmental water line L4, a filter device 46, and a drain section 55.

[0048] The water sampling section 41 collects a portion of the environmental water that circulates in the environmental water line L4 by constant speed suction. The detailed structure of the water sampling section 41 will be described later.

[0049] The flow rate adjusting section 42 is provided on the downstream side of the water sampling section 41. The flow rate adjusting section 42 is constituted by, for example, a control valve that can change the flow rate. The flow rate of the environmental water is adjusted in a manner that appropriately performs sampling of the environmental water of the water sampling section 41. Note that the flow rate adjusting section 42 is controlled to be in a closed state when sampling is not performed.

[0050] The flow rate detecting section 43 is a sensor that detects the flow rate of the environmental water that is collected by the water sampling section 41. The detected value is sent to the control device 100. In the present embodiment, it is provided on the downstream side of the flow rate adjusting section 42.

[0051] The water quality detecting section 44 is a sensor (conductivity sensor, turbidity sensor, etc.) that detects the water quality of the environmental water. The water quality information detected by the water quality detecting section 44 is sent to the control device 100. It can also be provided in the structure of the water taking line L1 from the viewpoint of detecting the water quality of the environmental water.

[0052] The flow rate detection section 45 is disposed in the vicinity of the water collecting section 41 in the environmental water line L4. The flow rate detection section 45 detects the flow rate of the environmental water flowing in the environmental water line L4, and transmits the detected value to the control device 100.

[0053] The filter device 46 performs a filtering process on the environmental water collected from the environmental water line L4, and the drain section 55 discharges the cooling water filtered by the filter device 46 to the outside of the ship. Note that the detailed structure of the filter device 46 will be described later.

[0054] <Water collecting section and filter device>

[0055] Next, the structure of the water collecting section 41 and the filter device 46 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 2 The structure of the water collecting section 41 and the filter device 46 of the present embodiment will be described. Figure 2 is a schematic view showing a first example of the structure of the water collecting section 41 and the filter device 46 of the present embodiment. Note that in Figure 2 , the flow rate adjustment section 42, the flow rate detection section 43, the water quality detection section 44, the flow rate detection section 45, and the like are omitted from the illustration.

[0056] As shown in Figure 2 , the environmental water line L4 is provided with a straight pipe section L40 as a circular pipe-shaped pipe, and the water collecting section 41 is disposed in the straight pipe section L40. The water collecting section 41 of the present embodiment is provided with a straight section 50 having a water collecting port 56, and a bent section 51 extending outward of the environmental water line L4 from the straight section 50.

[0057] The straight section 50 extends in the same direction as the straight pipe section L40, and is located at the center of the straight pipe section L40. The straight section 50 of the water collecting section 41 and the straight pipe section L40 of the environmental water line L4 are in a positional relationship disposed on the same axis P. A water collecting port 56 is formed at the end portion on the upstream side of the straight section 50, and this water collecting port 56 becomes an inlet of the environmental water flowing in the environmental water line L4 to the water collecting section 41. Note that the end portion of the water collecting port 56 is preferably chamfered so as to smoothly and gently move the environmental water from the outside to the inside of the straight section 50.

[0058] The bent section 51 is a substantially L-shaped pipe in which the end portion on the upstream side is connected to the end portion on the downstream side of the straight section 50. The bent section 51 of the present embodiment is bent in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction in which the straight section 50 extends, and extends outward of the environmental water line L4 (straight pipe section L40).

[0059] The filter device 46 is provided with a filter 53 for capturing microplastics and a housing 54 that holds the filter 53. A portion of the environmental water that has passed through the straight portion 50 and the bent portion 51 reaches the housing 54 of the filter device 46, and solid matter containing microplastics contained in the environmental water is captured by the filter 53 held inside.

[0060] The housing 54 of the present embodiment is disposed on the downstream side of the bent portion 51 and can be removed from the filter device 46 in a state in which the filter 53 is held inside. As a structure that can be attached and detached, for example, an appropriate manner such as a cartridge form can be adopted.

[0061] Note that a dedicated lid that is installed to the housing 54 in a state in which the filter device 46 is removed can also be prepared in advance. In this structure, by fixing the dedicated lid to the housing 54, it is possible to easily make the filter 53 in which solid matter containing microplastics is captured into a state of being isolated from the outside. The dedicated lid or the housing 54 can also be provided with a display portion that displays sample identification information 204 that identifies a microplastic sample. Note that the microplastic sample

[0062] The filter 53 will be described. The filter 53 uses a filter of a filtration precision with which microplastics can be recovered. For example, the filtration precision of the filter 53 is preferably 200 μm to 800 μm in particle diameter.

[0063] In the present embodiment, a mesh filter made of metal of 300 μm to 500 μm is used for the filter 53. Note that the structure is not limited to this, and a spring filter or another type of filter can also be used for the filter 53. For example, the filtration precision can be set to 1000 μm based on the definition of microplastics that targets a diameter of 5 mm or less or 1 mm or less or the like. In the present embodiment, the filtration precision indicates capture with which the particle removal efficiency of particles that can be displayed in the aperture value is 99% or more.

[0064] The drain portion 55 is disposed on the downstream side (outlet side) of the housing 54. A portion of the environmental water that has been filtered by the filter 53 inside the housing 54 is discharged to the outside of the ship 2 through the drain portion 55. The solid matter containing microplastics is captured by the filter 53, and thus the solid matter containing microplastics can be recovered as a microplastic sample from the filter 53. For example, the filter 53 can be brought back to a laboratory, the solid matter can be washed off from the filter 53, and analysis of microplastics can be performed. At this time, the amount of filtered seawater in which microplastics are collected can be calculated based on the flow path cross-sectional area of the straight portion 50 and the velocity U1.

[0065] In addition, the straight portion 50 is configured so that the inner diameter a2 is within a range of 1 / 2 to 2 / 3 of the inner diameter al of the straight pipe portion L40, and the length d of the straight portion of the straight portion 50 is longer than the inner diameter al of the straight pipe portion L40, in order to more reliably achieve sample collection based on constant-rate suction in the water sampling portion 41.

[0066] In the present embodiment, the opening degree of the flow rate adjustment portion 42 is controlled in a manner so that the velocity U0 of the water flow flowing outside the straight portion 50 in the environmental water line L4 is equal to the velocity Ul of the water flow inside the straight portion 50. For example, the velocity U0 can be obtained based on the detection value of the flow rate detection portion 45, and the velocity Ul can be obtained based on the detection value of the flow rate detection portion 43, so that by controlling the flow rate adjustment portion 42 while monitoring these detection values, the state in which the velocity U0 and the velocity Ul are approximately equal is achieved, thereby achieving sample collection based on constant-rate suction.

[0067] <Second Example of Filtration Device>

[0068] The structure of the filtration device 46 is not limited to the above-described structure, and can be appropriately changed. Next, referring to Figure 3 A filtration device 46a having a structure different from that of the above-described embodiment will be described. Figure 3 is a schematic view showing a second example of the structure of the filtration device 46a of the present embodiment. Note that, regarding the structures common or identical to those described in the above-described embodiment, there are cases in which the same reference numerals are attached and the description is omitted.

[0069] Figure 3 The filtration device 46a of the example differs from the filtration device 46 of the example of Figure 2 in that it is provided with a backwashing mechanism 60 that backwashes the filter 53, and a backwashing water storage portion 70 that stores backwashing water after the filter 53 is backwashed.

[0070] As shown in Figure 3 , the backwashing mechanism 60 is provided with a treated water tank 61, a backwashing line L50, a backwashing pump 62, a backwashing on-off valve 63, and a backwashing drain line L51.

[0071] The treated water tank 61 stores backwashing water that is supplied to the filtration device 46a. As the backwashing water, for example, tap water used in the ship 2, or treated water that has been treated by the filtration device 46a can be used.

[0072] The backwashing line L50 is a line that supplies backwashing water to the filter 53 in a direction opposite to the filtering direction of the filter 53 of the filtering device 46a. The end portion on one side (the end portion on the upstream side, the end portion on the treated water side) of the backwashing line L50 is connected to the treated water tank 61. The end portion on the other side (the end portion on the downstream side) of the backwashing line L50 is connected to a position in the filtering device 46a that is on the downstream side (the drain portion 55 side) of the filter 53.

[0073] The backwashing pump 62 is provided to the backwashing line L50. By driving the backwashing pump 62, backwashing water is supplied to the filter 53 through the backwashing line L50 in a direction opposite to the filtering direction.

[0074] The backwashing on-off valve 63 is provided to the backwashing line L50. The backwashing on-off valve 63 is in a closed state in a case where the backwashing process of the filter 53 is not performed. In a case where the backwashing process of the filter 53 is performed, the backwashing on-off valve 63 shifts from the closed state to an open state.

[0075] The backwashing drain line L51 is a line through which backwashing drain water flows after the backwashing of the filter 53. The end portion on one side (the end portion on the upstream side) of the backwashing drain line L51 is connected to a position in the filtering device 46a that is on the upstream side (the environmental water line L4 side) of the filter 53. The end portion on the other side (the end portion on the downstream side) of the backwashing drain line L51 is connected to the backwashing water storage portion 70.

[0076] The backwashing water storage portion 70 is a recovery container that stores backwashing water containing microplastics in a liquid state. The backwashing water storage portion 70 is configured to be detachable from the water sampling portion 41 and to be able to take out the microplastics-containing water together with the backwashing water storage portion 70 from the microplastics recovery device 40.

[0077] It can also be that a dedicated lid that is prepared to be installed in a state of being detached from the filtering device 46a (the backwashing drain line L51) is prepared for the backwashing water storage portion 70, and that the microplastics sample (the microplastics-containing water) in the backwashing water storage portion 70 can be stored in a state of being isolated from the outside using the lid. In addition, the lid or the backwashing water storage portion 70 can be configured to have a display portion that displays sample identification information 204 that identifies the microplastics sample.

[0078] In the filtering device 46a of this second example, the backwashing process is performed after the filtering process of the filtering device 46a. When the backwashing process is started, the control device 100 controls the backwashing on-off valve 63 to be in an open state, and drives the backwashing pump 62. By the driving of the backwashing pump 62, backwashing water is supplied to the filter 53 in a direction opposite to the filtering direction of the filtering device 46a.

[0079] The backwash water supplied to the filter 53 in the reverse direction of the filtration direction washes away the filtered matter (or solid matter) containing microplastics that is captured by the filter 53 in the filtration process toward the backwash drain line L51. Also, the backwash drain water (backwashed water after filtration) containing the filtered matter (or solid matter) is recovered by the backwash water storage portion 70. In the present embodiment, the prescribed condition is set in such a manner that the water passage amount in the reverse direction through the filter 53 in the backwash process becomes 1 / 10 or less of the water passage amount in the forward direction through the filter 53 in the filtration process of the filtration device 46a. Note that the prescribed condition can be a prescribed time determined by a timer, or a water quality sensor (conductivity sensor, turbidity sensor, or the like) can be provided between the filter 53 and the backwash water storage portion 70, and it can be determined whether or not the process is completed based on the detection value of the water quality sensor.

[0080] In the second example described above, the same effects as those of the above-described embodiment can be obtained. In this configuration, the microplastics sample can be stored in a state of a liquid (cooling water, environmental water) containing microplastics. That is, the microplastics sample collected for the analysis of microplastics can be not only a solid matter but also a liquid state containing a solid matter. From the viewpoint of suppressing the change in the state of microplastics, it is desirable to be set to environmental water (cooling water) originally containing microplastics and to be stored in the dark and at low temperature.

[0081] <Control device>

[0082] Next, the control device 100 will be described. The control device 100 is a computer including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, a storage device, and the like. The control device 100 is electrically connected to the microplastics recovery device 40 and performs various data collection and control. The control device 100 of the present embodiment is configured to perform a series of management processes related to sampling, such as a microplastics sample for collection analysis, making a record at the time of collection (sampling data), identifying and managing the microplastics sample.

[0083] Next, the control device 100 will be described with reference to Figure 4 The configuration of the control device 100 will be described. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the control device 100 provided in the microplastics recovery system 1 of the present embodiment. Note that in Figure 4 , there are cases in which the illustration of the configuration not directly related to the management process is omitted.

[0084] The control device 100 includes a control portion 110, a storage portion 200, an input portion 250, a display portion 251, a position information acquisition portion 210, and a printer 252. Hereinafter, each configuration will be described.

[0085] The control section 110 executes various functions for implementing management processing. The control section 110 is constituted by, for example, a CPU or the like that executes various processing in accordance with a program recorded in a ROM or a program loaded into a RAM.

[0086] The control section 110 has a flow control section 111, a sailing information acquisition section 112, a water sampling information acquisition section 113, a sample information creation section 114, and a sample identification information output section 115 as functional sections that execute a series of management processing related to sampling, such as collecting a microplastic sample, creating a record at the time of collection (sampling data), identifying a sample, and management.

[0087] The flow control section 111 controls the flow adjustment section 42 and controls the start and end of sampling. In addition, the flow control section 111 controls the flow adjustment section 42 in such a manner that the velocity U0 representing the flow velocity outside the straight portion 50 and the velocity U1 representing the flow velocity inside the straight pipe are equal, based on the detection values of the flow detection sections 43 and 45.

[0088] The sailing information acquisition section 112 acquires sailing information 201 including the position of the ship 2 at the time of the start and end of collection of a microplastic sample from the position information acquisition section 210, and causes the sailing information 201 to be stored in the storage section 200.

[0089] The water sampling information acquisition section 113 acquires water sampling information 202 including the amount of water sampled, and causes the water sampling information 202 to be stored in the storage section 200.

[0090] The sample information creation section 114 creates sample information 203 based on the sailing information 201 and the water sampling information 202, and causes the sample information 203 to be stored in the storage section 200. The sailing information 201 and the water sampling information 202 are also continuously collected during sampling. Therefore, these information are processed at the time of or after the end of sampling, and data such as the place of collection, the date and time, and the amount of water collected are managed as the sample information 203. In addition, the sample information creation section 114 creates sample identification information 204 for identifying each microplastic sample collected, and causes the sample identification information 204 to be stored in the storage section 200 in association with the sample information 203.

[0091] The sample identification information output section 115 executes processing of outputting the sample identification information 204 to the display section 251 and the printer 252. The sample identification information 204 may, for example, be a QR code including information such as a management number, the date and time of collection of a microplastic sample, and the latitude and longitude of the collection.

[0092] The storage section 200 is configured of a semiconductor memory such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) and stores various data of the microplastic recycling system 1. The sailing information 201, the water sampling information 202, the sample information 203, and the sample identification information 204 are stored in the storage section 200 as management information. Note that the sailing information 201, the water sampling information 202, the sample information 203, and the sample identification information 204 are illustrated in the sense of one example of the information stored in the storage section 200. Figure 4

[0093] The sailing information 201 includes position information indicating the position of the ship 2 at the time of water sampling of environmental water, time information indicating the date and time corresponding to the position information, and the like. Note that information related to sailing other than this can be included in the sailing information 201. For example, weather, sea conditions, or distance information indicating the distance from the shore can be included in the sailing information.

[0094] Note that the sailing information 201 described here is an example, and as long as it is information related to sailing, part of the information described here can be omitted, or information other than the example can be added, or another combination can be set as the sailing information.

[0095] The water sampling information 202 includes the water sampling depth, the water sampling amount, the water quality information, the sample time information, the ship identification information, and the like. The water sampling depth is information indicating the depth from the sea surface at the position where water sampling is performed, the water depth, and can be calculated, for example, based on the depth information of the water intake port (for example, a sea chest) according to the position of the water intake line L1, the depth information obtained by the depth sensor disposed at an appropriate place, and the like. The water sampling amount is the amount of water used to collect environmental water containing microplastics, and can be calculated, for example, from the flow passage cross-sectional area of the straight portion 50 and the velocity U1. As for the water sampling amount, a water amount sensor can also be disposed at the water sampling section 41 and directly detect the water sampling amount. The water quality information is water quality information such as the sea water temperature and the salinity concentration of the environmental water obtained by the ship 2. In the present embodiment, the water quality information is obtained based on the detection value of the water quality detection section 44. The sample time information is information indicating the time required to obtain the microplastic sample, the date and time at the time of sample acquisition, and the like.

[0096] ​The ship identification information is information related to the ship 2 to which the microplastic recovery system 1 is applied. For example, in the ship identification information, the ship type, the ship shape, the size of the ship (overall length, international gross tonnage), the shape of the sea water intake, the structure, the type of the first water intake pump 11, the second water intake pump 12, the capacity, and the like of the ship 2 can also be included. Such ship identification information can be analyzed in association with the analysis result of the microplastic obtained by analyzing the microplastic sample, and the influence of the type, the size, and the like of the ship on the sample collection (and further the analysis result of the microplastic) can be evaluated. In addition, in the ship identification information, information for specifying the ship name, the ship number, the identification mark, the IMO (International Maritime Organization) number, and the like of the ship 2 can also be included.

[0097] Note that the water intake information 202 described here is also an example, and as long as at least the time information (year, month, day, time, and the like) at the time of the microplastic acquisition, the place information, and the information related to the water intake including the filtered water amount filtered by the filter device 46 are included, a part of the information described here can be omitted, or information other than the example can be added, or other combinations can be provided as the water intake information 202.

[0098] The sample information 203 is created based on the sailing information 201 and the water intake information 202. The data included in the sample information 203 is important data used in the prediction of the distribution state, the dynamics, and the like of the microplastic in the environment together with the analysis result of the microplastic sample.

[0099] The sample identification information 204 is information for uniquely specifying the microplastic sample, such as a number, a letter, and the like. The sample identification information 204 is, for example, a management number (a number, a letter, a symbol, and the like) for identifying the microplastic sample, an identifier (QR code (registered trademark)) indicating the management number, or the like. In the sample identification information 204, in addition to the management number, the collection place information indicating the position where the water intake is performed, the collection time information indicating the date and time when the water intake is performed, the filtered water amount, the ship identification information, the weather, the sea state, the sea current, the sailing speed (the ship-to-water speed, the ship-to-shore speed), the sea water temperature, the salinity concentration, and the like as the water quality information can also be included.

[0100] As described above, in the storage 200, the sailing information 201 is stored in association with the water intake information 202 for each microplastic sample, and the sample information 203 created based on the sailing information 201 and the water intake information 202 is stored. The sample information 203 is also stored in association with the sample identification information 204. The water intake information 202 can also be said to be associated with the sample identification information 204 via the sample information 203.

[0101] The input unit 250 is an input interface such as a button or keyboard for users to operate the control device 100 and input information related to the collection of microplastic samples. The display unit 251 is a display device such as a monitor that outputs various information from the control device 100. The input unit 250 and the display unit 251 may also be an integrated structure such as a touch panel.

[0102] The positioning information acquisition unit 210 is a receiving unit that acquires positioning information, including the current position information of the ship 2, from positioning satellites such as GPS.

[0103] Printer 252 is a printing device for printing information related to microplastic samples, namely sample identification information. Printer 252 may also be a structure that prints sample identification information on sheet media such as paper or stickers, or it may be a structure that directly prints information related to microplastic samples on the housing 54 and the backwash water storage unit 70.

[0104] <Management Process>

[0105] Reference Figure 5 The management process and the various functional departments are explained. Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the management process of the microplastic recycling device 40 of this embodiment. Figure 5 The process begins when automatic sampling is performed according to a pre-set schedule.

[0106] When it begins Figure 5 During the process, the flow control unit 111 performs flow control based on the detection values ​​of the flow detection unit 43 and the flow detection unit 45 to adjust the flow of the flow adjustment unit 42 (step S1). In the flow adjustment control, as described above, the velocity U0 in the straight pipe section L40 of the ambient water line L4 is made consistent with the velocity U1 in the straight section 50 of the water intake section 41 to achieve constant velocity suction in the water intake section 41.

[0107] Next, the voyage information acquisition unit 112 performs a process of starting acquisition of the voyage information 201 corresponding to the microplastic sample acquired this time from the position information acquisition unit 210, and storing the voyage information 201 in the storage unit 200 (Step S2). The voyage information 201 contains at least the position information at the start of sample collection, and can acquire the position information periodically, or acquire the position information with an event of the water sampling unit 41 (arrival at a certain water sampling amount, change in speed U0, or the like) as a trigger. In addition, the water sampling information acquisition unit 113 performs a process of acquiring the water sampling information corresponding to the microplastic sample acquired this time, and storing the water sampling information 202 in the storage unit 200 (Step S3). As for the water sampling information 202, it can be stored in the storage unit 200 in association with the voyage information 201, or can contain information relating the water sampling information 202 to the voyage information 201, such as the time (Greenwich Mean Time or the like) when the water sampling information 202 and the voyage information 201 are contained.

[0108] Next, the flow rate control unit 111 determines whether or not a condition for ending sample collection is satisfied (Step S4). For example, the flow rate control unit 111 determines whether or not the water sampling amount of the microplastic sample reaches a prescribed reference, and in the case where the ending condition is satisfied when the prescribed reference is reached, the voyage information acquisition unit 112 acquires the position information at the end of sample collection. The flow rate control unit 111 ends the flow rate control, and the process proceeds to Step S5 (Step S4: Yes). In the case where the ending condition is not satisfied, sample collection is continued until the ending condition is satisfied (Step S4: No).

[0109] In Step S5, the sample information production unit 114 produces the sample information 203 based on the voyage information 201 and the water sampling information 202 stored in the storage unit 200, and stores the sample information 203 in the storage unit 200. In addition, the sample information production unit 114 produces the sample identification information 204, and stores the sample information 203 in association with the sample identification information 204 in the storage unit 200. Thereby, it is possible to easily associate the analysis result of the microplastic sample with the sample information using the sample identification information 204 as a search key (a mark for search), and it is possible to efficiently perform prediction of the distribution state, dynamics, elucidation of phenomena, and the like of microplastics in the environment.

[0110] In step S6, the sample identification information output section 115 acquires the sample identification information 204 from the storage section 200 and transmits the sample identification information 204 to the printer 252 (step S6). Thereby, the user can mark the sample identification information 204 printed by the printer 252 on the recovered sample (the case 54 or the backwash water storage section 70). For example, the sample identification information 204 including the management number, the sailing information, and the water sampling information is generated using a QR code (registered trademark) and printed on a sticker to be attached to the main body, a dedicated cover of the case 54 or the backwash water storage section 70, whereby the microplastic sample can be managed appropriately and efficiently.

[0111] Note that, in the case of the second example explained above, the backwash processing explained above is added between step S4 and step S5, and the backwash processing is completed, whereby the appropriate microplastic sample (microplastic-containing water) is recovered to the backwash water storage section 70. Figure 3 Note that, in step S5 and step S6, the example in which the sample information production section 114 itself produces the sample identification information 204 is explained, but is not limited to this example. For example, in the case where the sample identification information is assigned in advance (the QR code sticker is engraved, attached, and the like to the backwash water storage section 70 or the like), instead of performing the processing of step S5 and step S6 of the above-described embodiment, the processing can be provided in which the sample information production section 114 acquires the sample identification information 204 assigned to the backwash water storage section 70 or the like by the input work of the operator or the like and stores the acquired sample identification information 204 in the storage section 200 in association with the sample information 203.

[0112] As explained above, the microplastic recovery device 40 of the present embodiment is provided with: a water sampling section 41 that acquires environmental water from an environmental water line L4 through which environmental water flows; a flow rate adjustment section 42 that adjusts the flow rate of the environmental water acquired by the water sampling section 41; flow rate detection sections 43, 45 that detect the flow rate of the environmental water acquired by the water sampling section 41; filter devices 46, 46a that have filters 53 that filter the environmental water acquired by the water sampling section 41; and a control device (information management device) 100 that manages water sampling information 202 related to the acquisition status of the microplastics acquired by the filter devices 46, 46a.

[0113] Thereby, more data that contributes to the elucidation of the distribution and dynamics of microplastics in the marine environment can be obtained, and the management of the microplastic samples acquired in the navigation of the ship 2 can be reliably and easily performed. Even in the case where the user is not a person specialized in marine surveys, the acquisition and management of the microplastic samples in various regions (sea areas) can be easily achieved.

[0114]

[0115] ​Further, the control device 100 of the present embodiment includes: a water sampling information acquisition unit 113 that acquires water sampling information 202 including time information at the time of sampling of the microplastic sample, place information, and the amount of filtered water filtered by the filter device 46, 46a; a storage unit 200 that stores the water sampling information 202 acquired by the water sampling information acquisition unit 113; and a sample identification information output unit 115 that outputs sample identification information for identifying the microplastic corresponding to the water sampling information 202 and associating the water sampling information 202.

[0116] Thus, the microplastic sample can be managed more efficiently using the output sample identification information, and the burden on the user can be reduced effectively.

[0117] Further, in the present embodiment, the ship identification information based on the ship is included in the water sampling information.

[0118] Thus, the ship identification information can be stored in association with the acquired microplastic sample. After the sample is collected, information related to the ship that can have affected the collection of the microplastic (the shape of the sea chest, the position, or the shape of the hull, etc.) can be confirmed, and thus the ship identification information can be associated with the analysis result of the microplastic to be analyzed, and the influence of the type, size, etc. of the ship on the collection of the microplastic sample can be evaluated.

[0119] Further, in a case where the flow direction of the environmental water line L4 and the water sampling port 56 are not parallel, or in a case where the suction velocity (flow velocity (velocity U1 of the environmental water) in the straight portion 50) of the water sampling portion 41 and the flow velocity (velocity U0 of the environmental water) of the environmental water line L4 are not constant, the probability of a particle with a larger mass passing through the water sampling port 56 under the action of the inertial force is higher. With regard to this point, the microplastic recovery device 40 of the present embodiment includes the water sampling portion 41 having: a straight portion 50 that is disposed coaxially P with a straight pipe portion L40 of the environmental water line L4 that is a circular pipe extending in a straight line, opens on the one end side toward the upstream side of the environmental water line L4, and extends toward the downstream side of the environmental water line L4; and a bent portion 51 that is continuous with the other end side of the straight portion 50 and extends in a bent manner with respect to the straight portion 50. Thus, the flow direction of the fluid in the straight pipe portion L40 of the environmental water line L4 coincides with the flow direction of the fluid in the straight portion 50 of the water sampling portion 41. Further, in the present embodiment, the flow of the environmental water is adjusted by the flow rate adjustment portion 42 so that the velocity U0 of the water flowing outside the straight pipe portion L40 in the environmental water line L4 and the velocity U1 of the water flowing in the straight portion 50 are constant. Thus, the microplastic sample of the environmental water in which the number of particles and the particle size distribution of the microplastic are more appropriate can be acquired, and a more accurate sample collection method with less error can be achieved.

[0120] Further, the filter device 46 of the present embodiment also has a housing 54 that houses the filter 53, and the housing 54 is configured to be detachable with respect to the filter device 46.

[0121] Thus, the housing 54 can be removed from the filter device 46 together with the filter 53 that has captured the microplastics, and the management of the recovered microplastics can be made easier.

[0122] Further, in the present embodiment, the filter device 46a also has a backwash mechanism 60 that passes water through the filter device 46a in a direction opposite to the direction in which the environmental water to be filtered flows, and performs backwashing of the filter device 46a, and a backwash water storage portion 70 that stores backwash water after the filter device 46a has been backwashed by the backwash mechanism 60.

[0123] Thus, the amount of water passed through the filter 53 in the reverse direction in the clean water backwash control is made lower than the amount of water passed through the filter 53 in the forward direction, and thus the microplastics-containing water containing the microplastics can be concentrated. Further, the microplastics-containing water collected from the environmental water can be stored using the backwash water storage portion 70.

[0124] Further, in the present embodiment, the backwash water storage portion 70 is configured to be detachable with respect to the filter device 46a.

[0125] Thus, the microplastics-containing water collected from the environmental water can be stored and managed more easily.

[0126] Further, in the present embodiment, the microplastics recovery device 40 also has a flow rate control portion 111 that controls the start and end of the filtration performed by the filter device 46, 46a by controlling the flow rate adjustment portion 42.

[0127] Thus, automatic sampling of the microplastics recovery device 40 is realized. By setting the region and schedule for sampling in advance, the recovery processing of the microplastics in various places and time periods can be further more efficient, and recovery errors due to human error can also be prevented.

[0128] Further, in the present embodiment, the inner diameter a2 of the straight portion 50 is 1 / 2 to 2 / 3 of the inner diameter al of the straight pipe portion L40.

[0129] Thus, the amount of environmental water necessary and preferable for obtaining a microplastics sample can be obtained using the water collecting portion 41.

[0130] In the present embodiment, the length d of the straight portion of the straight portion 50 is configured to be longer than the inner diameter al of the straight pipe portion L40.

[0131] Thus, the shape of the straight portion 50 near the inlet of the water sampling portion 41 becomes a shape that ensures a length that achieves ideal constant-speed suction, and thus the environmental water can be more accurately collected as a microplastic sample.

[0132] The filter 53 of the present embodiment has a particle size of 200 to 800 μm in terms of filtration accuracy.

[0133] Thus, clogging of the filter mesh by organisms, organic matter, and the like from nature can be suppressed, and microplastics as the object of recovery can be reliably recovered.

[0134] In addition, the microplastic recovery system 1 of the present embodiment includes a water intake line L1 that takes in environmental water toward the ship 2, a first water intake pump 11 and a second water intake pump 12 that are disposed in the water intake line L1, a central cooler (heat exchanger) 4 that uses the environmental water that flows through the water intake line L1 as cooling water, a water discharge line L3 that discharges the environmental water that has been heat-exchanged by the central cooler 4, and a microplastic recovery device 40 that recovers the environmental water that is taken in by the water intake line L1.

[0135] Thus, the environmental water that is taken in toward the ship as cooling water can be efficiently used to sample and collect microplastics. Even in a large cargo ship, oil tanker, or the like in which it is difficult to use a neuston net, microplastics can be efficiently and appropriately collected from the environmental water that is taken in toward the ship.

[0136] The above describes an embodiment of the present application, but the present application is not limited to the above-described embodiment and can be appropriately changed.

[0137] For example Figure 5 The flowchart shown is an example, and the order of the processing and the like can be appropriately changed. In addition, in the example of the flowchart shown Figure 5 In the example of the flowchart shown, an example in which the control device 100 performs automatic sampling is described, but the structure is not limited to this. The structure can be such that sampling is started by the user's operation (manual sampling).

[0138] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the flow rate adjustment portion 42 is a structure that is controlled to be in a closed state when sampling is not performed, but the structure is not limited to this. An on-off valve that causes the flow rate adjustment portion to be fully open at the start of sampling and fully closed at the end, and an adjustment valve that adjusts the speed U0 of the environmental water that passes through the straight portion 50 of the water sampling portion 41 to be equal to the flow rate of the straight pipe portion L40 of the environmental water line L4 at the time of sampling can be separately provided. In addition, the structure is such that the constant-speed suction is automatically controlled using the flow rate detection portion 43, but the structure can be such that the constant-speed suction is achieved by the user manually operating the flow rate adjustment portion 42. Depending on the situation, the constant-speed suction can be achieved using only the piping structure.

[0139] In addition, the series of processes described above can be executed by hardware or by software. In the case where the series of processes is executed by software, a program constituting the software is installed from a network, a recording medium, or the like, to a computer or the like. In addition, the control device 100 can be a computer assembled in a dedicated hardware. In addition, the control device 100 can be a computer capable of executing various functions by installing various programs, such as a general-purpose personal computer.

[0140] Explanation of Reference Signs

[0141] 1 Microplastic recovery system

[0142] 2 Ship

[0143] 11 Water intake pump

[0144] 40 Microplastic recovery device

[0145] 41 Water intake portion

[0146] 46a Filter device

[0147] 50 Straight portion

[0148] 51 Bending portion

[0149] 53 Filter

[0150] 54 Housing

[0151] 60 Backwashing mechanism

[0152] 70 Backwashing water storage portion

[0153] 100 Control device (information management device)

[0154] 111 Flow rate control portion

[0155] 113 Water intake information acquisition portion

[0156] 115 Sample identification information output portion

[0157] L3 Drain line

[0158] L4 Environmental water line

Claims

1. A microplastic recovery device installed on a ship and recovering microplastics contained in environmental water taken in by the ship, wherein the microplastic recovery device comprises: a water taking section that takes environmental water from an environmental water line through which environmental water flows; a flow rate adjusting section that adjusts the flow rate of the environmental water taken by the water taking section; a flow rate detecting section that detects the flow rate of the environmental water taken by the water taking section; a filter device that has a filter that filters the environmental water taken by the water taking section; and an information management device that manages water taking information related to the taking condition of the microplastics taken by the filter device, the water taking section has: a straight section that is disposed coaxially with a straight pipe section of a circular pipe shape of the environmental water line inside the straight pipe section, opens at one end side toward an upstream side of the environmental water line, and extends toward a downstream side of the environmental water line; and a bent section that is continuous with the other end side of the straight section and extends bent with respect to the straight section, the flow rate adjusting section adjusts the flow rate of the environmental water in such a manner that the speed of a water flow flowing outside the straight section in the environmental water line is equal to the speed of a water flow inside the straight section.

2. The microplastic recovery device according to claim 1, wherein the information management device comprises: a water taking information taking section that takes information including at least time information at the time of taking of the microplastics, place information, and information related to water taking including the amount of filtered water filtered by the filter device, as the water taking information; a storage section that stores the water taking information taken by the water taking information taking section; and a sample identification information output section that outputs sample identification information for identifying a microplastic sample corresponding to the water taking information and with which the water taking information is associated.

3. The microplastic recovery device according to claim 2, wherein ship identification information based on the kind of the ship is further included in the water taking information.

4. The microplastic recovery device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the filter device further has a filter housing that accommodates the filter, the filter housing is configured to be attached to and detached from the filter device.

5. The microplastic recovery device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the filter device further has: a backwashing mechanism that passes water in a direction opposite to the direction in which the environmental water flows with respect to the filter device, and performs backwashing of the filter device; and a backwashing water storage section that stores backwashing water after the filter device has been backwashed by the backwashing mechanism.

6. The microplastic recovery device according to claim 5, wherein the backwashing water storage section is configured to be attached to and detached from the filter device.

7. The microplastic recovery device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the microplastic recovery device further comprises a flow rate control section that controls the start and end of the filtration by the filter device by controlling the flow rate adjusting section.

8. A microplastic recovery system installed on a ship and recovering microplastics contained in environmental water taken in by the ship, wherein the microplastic recovery system comprises: ​ ​ a water intake line that takes in environmental water toward the ship; a water intake pump that is disposed in the water intake line; a heat exchanger that uses environmental water flowing through the water intake line as cooling water; a water discharge line that discharges environmental water that has been heat-exchanged by the heat exchanger; and a microplastic recovery device that recovers environmental water taken in by the water intake line, the microplastic recovery device having: a water intake section that takes in environmental water from an environmental water line through which environmental water flows; a flow rate adjustment section that adjusts the flow rate of environmental water taken in by the water intake section; a flow rate detection section that detects the flow rate of environmental water taken in by the water intake section; a filter device that has a filter that filters environmental water taken in by the water intake section; and an information management device that manages water intake information related to the state of taking in microplastics taken in by the filter device, the water intake section having: a straight section that is disposed coaxially inside a straight pipe section of a circular pipe shape of the environmental water line, with one end side open toward the upstream side of the environmental water line, and that extends toward the downstream side of the environmental water line; and a bent section that is continuous with the other end side of the straight section and extends in a bent manner with respect to the straight section, the flow rate adjustment section adjusting the flow rate of environmental water in such a manner that the speed of a water current flowing outside the straight section in the environmental water line is equal to the speed of a water current inside the straight section in the environmental water line. ​ ​ ​

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