Hinged Cover for Clarifier Launder Channel Algae Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for preventing algae growth in inboard launder channels of sewage treatment tanks are either labor-intensive, costly, or unsuitable for non-circular tank configurations, and existing cover systems are prone to damage and maintenance issues due to direct attachment and water interference.
Innovation Solution
A hinged cover system with improved support brackets and securing mechanisms, featuring angled attachment portions and a design that deflects water, combined with opaque panel members to inhibit algae growth and capture noxious gases, utilizing fiberglass composite materials for structural strength and ease of installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a cover system is attached directly to the tops of the inside and outside launder channel wall support brackets, then the cover can be installed and function to prevent algae growth, but the attachment area becomes soiled and hampers cleaning activities
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge attachment mechanism is extracted from the water-exposed bracket tops and relocated to the dry upper surfaces of the brackets. This separation allows the cover to be securely attached while keeping the attachment area远离from water and scum accumulation zones, maintaining cleaning accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge acts as an intermediary component that connects the cover to the brackets at a location above the water line. This intermediary attachment point prevents direct contact between the cover attachment mechanism and the contaminated water environment, solving both installation and cleaning concerns.
2Ease of operation
If the hinge mechanism is directly attached to the top edge of the support bracket, then the cover can be hinged open for cleaning, but the latch mechanism becomes difficult to install and the connection point experiences strain from repeated openings
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge attachment point is extracted from the vulnerable top edge of the bracket and repositioned to the stronger upper surface of the bracket. This relocation reduces stress concentration at the original attachment point and provides a more durable mounting location that better withstands repeated opening cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge and latch mechanisms are pre-positioned at optimally located attachment points that distribute mechanical stress more evenly across the bracket structure. This beforehand proper positioning prevents premature failure from strain and facilitates easier latch installation.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If manual scrubbing is used to remove algae from the baffle, weir, and spillway, then algae can be cleaned, but the process becomes labor-intensive and tedious requiring large expenditure of man-hours
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is designed to be easily removable and reattachable, allowing preliminary preparation of cleaning tools and procedures to be done on land rather than requiring workers to repeatedly position themselves in the tank. The quick-attach mechanism enables rapid cover removal for cleaning operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover system itself serves the dual function of preventing algae growth during operation and facilitating efficient cleaning when removed. By blocking sunlight, the cover prevents the problem from occurring in the first place, reducing the frequency and intensity of cleaning required.
4Productivity
If an inboard launder channel configuration is used with two scum baffles, weirs, and spillways, then water flow can be managed effectively, but the surface area requiring algae cleaning is roughly doubled
Solution Approach 1:
The cover system provides universal protection across both the inner and outer launder channel surfaces. By implementing a single cover design that can accommodate the multi-baffle configuration, the system maintains effective water flow management while uniformly preventing algae growth on all exposed surfaces, regardless of the number of baffles and weirs present.
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 cover system effectively prevents algae growth, reduces maintenance costs, and captures noxious gases, enhancing operational safety and efficiency while withstanding water and scum buildup without compromising hydraulic flow.
Implementation Method 1
the panel members are dimensioned to completely cover the launder channel and made from an opaque material which reflects and/or absorbs substantially all light incident thereon
Implementation Method 2
A downward flange is formed on each cover at the exterior section thereof and an inwardly down turned flange is formed on the cover at the interior section. These flanges deflect water away from the hinge mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A cover arrangement for an inboard launder channel includes at least one cover panel positioned over the inboard launder channel, having a first attachment portion and a second attachment portion. A first cover support bracket is coupled to a first upper side wall of the inboard launder channel and a second cover support bracket is coupled to a second upper side wall of the inboard launder channel. The first attachment portion is coupled at a first end to the first cover support bracket and at a second upper end is angled, inward towards the center of the inboard launder channel. The second attachment portion is coupled at a first end to the second cover support bracket and at a second upper end is angled, inward towards the center of the inboard launder channel. This allows a user to open the cover panel upward and away from one of the side walls of the inboard launder channel so as to clean the inside of the channel.