Bottom Sediment Vacuum Frame for Low-Energy Pond Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for removing sediment from ponds and lagoons are inefficient, expensive, difficult to install, and require excessive energy consumption, while conventional swimming pool filtering systems are economically prohibitive and have a high carbon footprint.
Innovation Solution
A large-scale sediment removal system, referred to as a 'Pond Mower', which uses a frame-supported vacuum unit with adjustable elevation and wheels, operates partially submerged to efficiently remove settled sediment with reduced water filtration, utilizing a pump system and adjustable suction power, and incorporates multiple filtration steps to minimize energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional swimming pool filtering systems are used to remove sediment from large water bodies, then complete water filtration is achieved, but energy consumption increases and cost becomes economically prohibitive
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts only the sediment layer from the bottom of the water body without filtering the entire water volume. The vacuum system with frame and suction area removes accumulated sediment while leaving the bulk water undisturbed, achieving water clarity maintenance with significantly reduced energy consumption compared to complete filtration systems
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs partial filtration by targeting only the sediment layer at the bottom rather than filtering 100% of the water volume. This partial action approach removes enough sediment to maintain water clarity while consuming far less energy than conventional systems that filter the entire water body
2Productivity
If large trucks with huge pumps and vacuums are used for sediment removal, then sediment removal capability is sufficient, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the sediment removal system into a compact, integrated unit with a frame, suction area, and vacuum mechanism working together. This segmented design replaces the complex assembly of large trucks, huge pumps, and extensive piping with a unified, manageable system that maintains effective sediment removal capability while reducing overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The frame acts as an intermediary structure that supports the suction area and vacuum mechanism, enabling the system to operate effectively without requiring large trucks or complex mounting structures. The frame provides the necessary support and positioning while simplifying the overall system architecture
3Ease of operation
If pond vacuums with motors positioned near water's edge are used, then ease of operation is improved, but vacuum suction loss occurs due to long tubes or pipes
Solution Approach 1:
The invention positions the motor within the frame structure that extends into the water, changing the spatial arrangement from horizontal placement near the edge to vertical/submerged placement. This dimensional change reduces the length of suction tubes required, maintaining vacuum suction power while preserving ease of operation
4Area of stationary object
If submergible vacuums are used for pond cleaning, then access to deeper portions is improved, but lack of support structures above bottom reduces maneuverability
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure provides buoyant support that counteracts the weight of the submergible vacuum components. This anti-weight effect enables the system to maintain stability and maneuverability in deeper water without requiring external support structures, as the frame itself provides the necessary flotation and positioning capability
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 system effectively removes up to 99% less water volume while maintaining clarity, reducing energy use by 50% compared to conventional pools, and facilitates recreational activities in large bodies of water.
Implementation Method 1
a sediment removing vacuum unit operably associated with the frame to conduct a suctioned bottom water flow
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for removing a layer of sediment which has settled on the bottom of a large water body includes using a structural frame configured to contain a bottom water flow and for containing liquid and suspended particles dispersed during removal of bottom sediment in a suctioning area that is at least about 3 square feet, up to and including 8 square feet, that has support elements and/or silt containing elements, with a plurality of supporting wheels. A sediment removing vacuum unit is operably associated with the structural frame to conduct suctioned bottom water flow through suction lines to a filtering station outside of the water body, such that the water can then be returned to the large water body.