Floating Surface Drain for Stormwater Skimmer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stormwater basin outlets located near the bottom of the basin have variable head and flow rates due to changing water levels, leading to undesirable flow characteristics, clogging issues, and inefficient water management.
Innovation Solution
A floating surface drain device with a unique configuration of a sluice gate and flume, which maintains a uniform head on the controlling orifice, allowing for a known, constant flow rate from near the surface, reducing clogging risks, and enhancing water management efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a small orifice is used at the bottom of the outlet structure to control flow rate, then the flow rate can be regulated, but the head on the orifice varies with water level resulting in too low flow when head is low and too great flow when head is high
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet structure transitions from a static bottom orifice to a dynamic surface outlet that moves with water level changes. The floating outlet structure maintains a constant head by positioning itself at the water surface, ensuring consistent flow rate regardless of basin water level.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operating parameter from variable head (bottom outlet) to constant head (surface outlet). By positioning the outlet at the water surface where head remains relatively constant, the flow rate becomes more predictable and reliable throughout the drainage process.
2Productivity
If the outlet is located at the bottom of the basin, then flow rate can be controlled, but the outlet can easily clog with sediment and debris washed into the basin
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of placing the outlet at the bottom of the basin where sediment accumulates, the invention inverts the approach by positioning the outlet at the water surface. This reversal eliminates direct contact with sediment and debris, preventing clogging while maintaining flow control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The floating outlet structure acts as an intermediary that separates the flow control function from the sediment-laden bottom environment. The outlet structure mediates between the water surface (clean) and the basin bottom (silty), allowing controlled drainage without direct exposure to clogging materials.
3Productivity
If a small orifice is used to control flow rate, then flow can be regulated, but the basin depth is limited requiring the basin to occupy a large area
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet structure becomes dynamic rather than fixed at the bottom. The floating outlet moves with water level changes, allowing the basin to be shallower while maintaining effective flow control. This reduces the horizontal area required compared to a fixed bottom outlet design.
4Productivity
If conventional bottom outlets are used, then flow rate can be controlled, but the flow characteristics are undesirable and water management efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The floating outlet structure is self-regulating, automatically adjusting its position with water level changes to maintain optimal flow conditions. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for external control systems and improves water management efficiency by providing consistent, reliable flow control throughout the drainage process.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device achieves a uniform and controlled draining and release rate, reduces the potential for clogging, and allows for a more compact basin design by maintaining a constant flow rate and reducing storage volume requirements.
Implementation Method 1
The buoyancy device is configured to bias the sluice towards a top of the water
Implementation Method 2
This allows gravity settling of debris and soil particles toward the bottom
Data Source
AI summary
A drainage device is provided. The device includes a novel floating surface drain or skimmer to manage draining of liquid, such as draining of water from stormwater impoundment ponds or structures.