Non-motorized Gold Mining Apparatus Using Venturi Suction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gold mining apparatuses are cumbersome and expensive due to their reliance on motors for suction pressure, and they often have sensitive moving parts prone to corrosion and extreme temperatures.
Innovation Solution
A non-motorized gold mining apparatus utilizing three tubular members, fibrous matting, and a non-permeable skirt to create a venturi-like space for suction pressure, trapping particulate matter without moving parts sensitive to temperature or corrosion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If motorized components are used to create suction pressure, then sufficient suction force is achieved, but the apparatus becomes cumbersome, expensive, and has sensitive moving parts prone to corrosion and temperature damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces motorized mechanical systems with a purely hydraulic system. The venturi apparatus uses water flow dynamics (Bernoulli's principle) to generate suction pressure, eliminating motors, belts, and other sensitive moving parts. The suction force is created by the pressure differential between the high-velocity water stream passing through the venturi constriction and the atmospheric pressure at the suction inlet.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs hydraulic principles to generate the required suction pressure. A venturi tube creates a pressure differential through controlled water flow - as water accelerates through the narrow throat section, pressure drops according to Bernoulli's equation, creating negative pressure (suction) that draws in the slurry mixture. This hydraulic approach eliminates the need for motorized compression or vacuum systems.
2Force
If motorized components are used, then suction pressure is generated, but the apparatus becomes heavier and more expensive to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes motorized weight with lightweight hydraulic components. The venturi apparatus consists primarily of plastic or metal tubing, fittings, and a water source connection - dramatically reducing weight compared to motorized vacuum systems. The suction force is derived from the kinetic energy of flowing water rather than mechanical work from an engine or motor.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the natural flow of water from an existing source (stream, river, or hose) to generate its own suction pressure. The venturi apparatus is self-actuating - when water flows through it, the pressure differential automatically creates suction without requiring external power input. This eliminates the weight and operational cost of powered systems while maintaining effective suction force.
3Force
If moving parts are used for suction, then suction pressure is achieved, but the parts are sensitive to extreme temperatures and corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces motorized components with a static venturi tube and flexible hose assembly. The venturi tube can be made from corrosion-resistant materials like PVC, CPVC, or stainless steel, while the flexible hose is typically rubber or plastic - both resistant to corrosion and temperature extremes. Since there are no motors, belts, or seals, there are no moving parts to degrade from thermal cycling or chemical exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
The suction line uses flexible rubber or plastic hoses instead of rigid metal piping with mechanical joints. These flexible conduits are inherently resistant to corrosion and can withstand a wide temperature range. The flexibility also accommodates thermal expansion and contraction without stress concentration points that would lead to failure in rigid systems.
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 apparatus is significantly lighter, smaller, and less expensive to operate, effectively extracting gold and other valuable minerals from stream placer deposits without the need for motorized components, ensuring durability and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The second tubular member is designed in a way to create a space with venturi forces at its interface with the first tubular member. Because of the venturi-like space, stream enters the first tubular member with high velocity causing a suction pressure in the second tubular member.
Implementation Method 2
stream enters the first tubular member with high velocity causing a suction pressure in the second tubular member. Stream is sucked into the second tubular member and the flexible hose due to the suction pressure.
Implementation Method 3
The fibrous matting is disposed over the third tubular member with perforated ridges for trapping the particulate matter. The particulate matter carried by the stream gets collected in the fibrous matting.
Data Source
AI summary
A non-motorized apparatus for collecting particulate materials, including gold, in stream placer deposits, comprising a first tubular member, a second tubular member, a third tubular member with perforated ridges, a skirt for enveloping the tubular members, and a fibrous matting disposed over the third tubular member. The third tubular member with the fibrous matting is held entirely inside the second tubular member. The second tubular member is connected to one end of the first tubular member in a way to have high velocity stream flowing into the first tubular member, creating a suction pressure in the second tubular member. The particulate matter settles in grooves formed by the ridges in the third tubular member and passes through the perforations to be trapped in the fibrous matting as the stream is sucked into the second tubular member.