Segmented Sheet Piling Barrier with Elevation Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water containment systems fail to effectively manage contaminated water bodies by preventing the migration of dissolved phase contaminants while allowing uncontaminated water to flow through, particularly in scenarios where hydrocarbons or chloride-impacted water are present, and require a controlled mechanism to separate and extract contaminants.
Innovation Solution
A controlled containment barrier system utilizing interlocking sheet piling panels with valves at various elevations to regulate water and contaminant movement, where valves can be operated to allow uncontaminated water to flow while keeping contaminants contained, using a combination of above-ground and below-ground mechanisms to manage surface and subsurface flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a complete barrier is used to prevent contaminant migration, then contaminant containment is improved, but water flow control is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier is segmented into multiple panels with discrete valve mechanisms at different elevations, allowing selective opening/closing of specific sections to control water flow while maintaining contaminant containment in other sections
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier transitions from a static complete seal to a dynamic system with adjustable valve mechanisms that can be opened or closed based on water level and contaminant type, enabling adaptive control of water flow while preventing contaminant migration
2Ease of operation
If valves are added to control water flow, then water flow control is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The valve mechanisms are integrated into the barrier panel structure itself, serving dual functions of water flow control and contaminant containment, rather than being separate added components, thereby reducing overall system complexity
3Ease of operation
If the barrier extends above ground to control surface water, then surface water control is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier extends from the subsurface into the above-ground dimension, allowing surface water flow control through elevated valve mechanisms while the below-ground portion maintains contaminant containment, effectively addressing both surface and subsurface water management in a single integrated structure
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 isolates and manages contaminants, allowing uncontaminated water to flow while maintaining containment of contaminants, even in complex scenarios with varying water densities and contamination layers, enhancing remediation efforts and ecosystem integrity.
Implementation Method 1
Chloride impacted water, for example, has a higher density than fresh water and is typically found near the bottom of the water profile
Data Source
AI summary
A controlled containment barrier system is provided that can prevent the migration of dissolved phased contaminants in water systems. The system includes sheet piling installed in a body of water, the sheet piling having valves disposed at various vertical elevations on the sheet piling panels that allow the discharge of water at various strata in the body of water through the barrier system.