SYSTEMS, APPARATUSES, AND METHODS OF DEWATERING SOLID/LIQUID MIXTURES

A system for dewatering a solid/liquid mixture is provided. The system is configured to separate the solids and liquid from the solid/liquid mixture. A method of dewatering is also provided. A mobile filtration system is provided. A system for separating a solid/liquid mixture is provided and includes a dump basin and a filter container in fluid communication with the dump basin. The dump basin includes a floor upon which an earthmoving implement may drive and upon which a solid/liquid mixture is dumped. The floor may define a plurality of apertures therein through which liquid from the solid/liquid mixture passes and through which the solid does not pass. The liquid passing through, the floor flows into the filter container. The filter container may include a weir plate. Methods of operation and assembly are further provided.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure generally relates to separating liquid from solid in solid/liquid mixtures and, more particularly, to dewatering solid/liquid mixtures using systems, apparatuses, and methods, and more specifically to solid/liquid separation systems, apparatuses and methods allowing for positioning of a truck on the systems and apparatuses, removal of solid waste from a lower cavity of the system using a mechanized earthmoving implement, and aperture orientations allowing for separation of solids and liquids.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Solid/liquid mixtures originate in a variety of industries and applications, and disposal thereof is becoming more difficult due to environmental concerns. In some jurisdictions, landfills accept dumping of certain solid/liquid mixtures. In other jurisdictions, dumping of any solid/liquid mixtures is prohibited. Solid/liquid mixtures in landfills may be referred to solidification waste, which may present an unstable slope to the landfill, instability in the slope of a landfill may result in sliding or other issues with the landfill. Thus, a need exists to address solid/liquid mixtures in jurisdictions that do not accept, dumping of solid/liquid mixtures.

One example of an application generating solid/liquid mixtures is hydro-excavation. Hydro-excavation is a popular process of removing or moving soil with pressurized liquid (e.g., water). A vacuum is used to transfer the solid/liquid to a storage tank. Hydro-excavation is less destructive and more accurate than industrial digging/excavating equipment. Many types of hydro-excavation earthmoving implements exist and such earthmoving implements include a liquid tank, a storage tank for the solid/liquid mixture, a source of pressurizing the liquid, a source for applying vacuum, among other things. As indicated above, some jurisdictions allow dumping of the solid/liquid mixture resulting from hydro-excavation and some jurisdictions do not allow dumping of such mixtures. Furthermore, in jurisdictions allowing dumping, the landfills accepting dumping may charge additional fees for dumping, thereby increasing the cost of hydro-evacuation. Additionally, a hydro-evacuation earthmoving implement may be required to travel great distances to the landfills accepting dumping of the solid/liquid mixtures, thereby increasing the cost of hydro-evacuation and decreasing operation time of the hydro-evacuation earthmoving implement. Thus, a need exists to address these deficiencies.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure generally relates to separating liquid from solid in solid/liquid mixtures and, more particularly, to dewatering solid/liquid mixtures using systems, apparatuses, and methods, and more specifically to solid/liquid separation systems, apparatuses and methods allowing for positioning of a truck on the systems and apparatuses, removal of solid waste from a lower cavity of the system using a mechanized earthmoving implement, and aperture orientations allowing for separation of solids and liquids.

The present disclosure may be defined by the following claims, and nothing in this section should be taken as a limitation on those claims.

In one aspect, a system for dewatering a solid/liquid mixture is provided.

In one aspect, a system for separating a solid/liquid mixture is provided.

In one aspect, a method of dewatering a solid/liquid mixture is provided.

In one aspect, a method of separating a solid/liquid mixture is provided.

In one aspect, a mobile filtration system is provided.

In one aspect, a system for separating a solid/liquid mixture is provided and includes a dump basin and a filter container in fluid communication with the dump basin. The dump basin includes a floor upon which an earthmoving implement may drive and upon which a solid/liquid mixture is dumped.

In one aspect, a system for separating a solid/liquid mixture is provided and includes a dump basin and a filter container in fluid communication with the dump basin. The dump basin includes a floor upon which an earthmoving implement may drive and upon which a solid/liquid mixture is dumped. The floor defines a plurality of apertures therein through which liquid from the solid/liquid mixture passes and through which the solid does not pass. The liquid passing through the floor flows into the filter container. The filter container includes a weir plate.

The invention is to a system for dewatering a solid/liquid mixture, the system comprises: a dump basin defined by walls and having a front side, wherein an earthmoving implement drives through the front side into the dump basin; the dump basin defining a cavity; the dump basin including a floor over the cavity; the floor comprising at least one structural truss extending into the cavity; and the floor comprising by at least one aperture; wherein the solid/liquid mixture is filtered through the at least one aperture.

The invention further provides for the dump basin comprises a first basin removably coupled to a second basin along interior walls; at least one earthmoving implement entry ramp is in close proximity to said front side; a plurality of apertures; the floor having an area with a reduced number of apertures for receiving the solid/liquid mixture; the aperture is positioned at an acute angle with respect to the front side; the aperture is positioned opposite a second aperture providing for a chevron pattern; the aperture is positioned at least one of parallel to the front side and orthogonal to the front side; the floor comprises four floor sections; at least one floor section having at least one structural, truss extending from the floor section into the cavity; the floor detachably positioned within the dump basin; the floor provides for at least one first lift mechanism for detachable positioning; the cavity having at least one drain opposite the front side, wherein the solid/liquid mixture advances in a direction of the drain; a filter container in hydraulically coupled with the at least one drain, wherein the solid/liquid mixture is further separated in the filter container; a beveled edge within the cavity, wherein solid/liquid mixture is advanced in the direction of the drain; and at least one barrier removably positioned on at least one wall.

A method of operating a system for dewatering a solid/liquid mixture comprises; depositing a solid/liquid mixture onto a floor of a dump basin; filtering the solid/liquid mixture through apertures in the floor into a cavity of the dump basin; transporting an amount of the solid/liquid mixture in a direction of at least one dram; transporting the amount of solid/liquid mixture from the dram to a filter container; removing solids remaining on the floor using an earthmoving implement; and removing the solids within the cavity through use of at least one of a mechanical arm or the earthmoving implement driven ante the cavity. The method further comprises: driving an earthmoving implement onto the floor for removing the solids from the floor; and employing a rear side of the dump basin to remove the solids from the floor.

A method of assembling a system for dewatering a solid/liquid mixture comprises: positioning a first basin; positioning a second basin in contact with the first basin along interior walls of the first basin and the second basin; coupling the first basin to the second basin along the interior walls; positioning at least one floor section within at least one of the first basin and the second basin; hydraulically coupling at least one of the first basin and the second basin to the filter container; and installing at least one filter assembly into the filter container.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Many types of solid/liquid mixtures119exist and are created in a variety of industries by a variety of applications. Such mixtures119ultimately need to be disposed of or treated prior to disposal. Disposal of such mixtures119is becoming more difficult since contamination is a major concern. Jurisdictions around the world vary in policy and procedure when it comes to disposal of solid/liquid mixtures119. Such, policy depends on the type of solid/liquid mixture119.

One example of an industry creating solid/liquid mixture119is hydro-evacuation. Hydro-evacuation utilizes pressurized liquid (typically water) and vacuum to excavate soil. Hydro-evacuation is less destructive and more accurate than industrial equipment. Hydro-evacuation is typically performed by a hydro-evacuation, earthmoving implement, such as a truck, including a liquid tank, a solid/liquid storage tank, a source of pressurizing the liquid, a source for applying vacuum, along with other equipment. The solid/liquid mixture created by this process may be referred to as hydro-vac waste, sediment sludge, viscous solid waste, wet sediment, slurry waste stream, among others.

Some jurisdictions include landfills accepting dumping of the solid/liquid mixture119created by the hydro-evacuation process, while other jurisdictions do not. The hydro-evacuation earthmoving implements are required to travel to the landfills accepting dumping of the solid/liquid mixture119, which can consume large quantities of time and increase the downtime of the hydro-evacuation earthmoving implements, furthermore, landfills excepting such solid/liquid mixtures119often charge extra fees, thereby increasing the cost of the hydro-evacuation process.

With reference toFIGS. 1-3, one example of a system for separating solid and liquid in a solid/liquid mixture119is provided. The system20is capable of separating a variety of types of solid/liquid mixtures. For purposes of demonstrating principles of the system20, the system20will be described with respect to separating solid and liquid in a solid/liquid mixture created by a hydro-excavation application. The system20is also mobile and easily transportable along traditional roads and highways via trailers coupled to trucks approved to transport, objects along such traditional roads and highways.

As illustrated inFIG. 1, the system20includes a dump basin24and a filter container28. In one example, the dump basin24may be about 16-feet by about 28-feet. In another example, the dump basin24may be about 16-feet by about 30-feet. In a further example, the dump basin24may be about 16-feet by about 22-feet. It should be understood that dump basin24is capable of having a wide variety of shapes, sires, and configurations and all of such possibilities are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

A hydro-evacuation earthmoving implement32(one example illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 22) is capable of backing onto the basin24and dumping the solid/liquid mixture119onto the dump basin24,120referenceFIG. 22.

As illustrated inFIG. 23, the dump basin24performs a first or initial separation or filtering of the solid and liquid from the solid/liquid mixture119. Larger solids121remain on the dump basin24, while the liquid and smaller solids122, and finer solids124flow through the dump basin24and into the filter container28,123.

The filter container28, illustrated inFIGS. 16-19, is configured to perform a further or second separation of solid from liquid by separating finer solids or sediment124from the liquid. In one example, the filter container28may be referred to as a sediment tank or sediment container. The finer solids124settle in the filter container26while the liquid rises. The liquid is then withdrawn from the filter container28. The solids remaining on the dump basin24(119,122) and the finer solids or sediment124in the filter container28may then be disposed of at landfills as any other solids may be disposed or recycled for other purposes. The system20of the present disclosure allows solids (121,122,124) present in a solid/liquid mixture119to be disposed of and may also eliminate any extra fee charged by a landfill to accept a solid/liquid mixture119since the liquid has been separated out from the solid.

With continued reference toFIGS. 1-15 and 27, the dump basin24will be described in more detail. With particular reference toFIGS. 1 and 7, in one example, the dump basin24is comprised of a first basin36and a second basin40. As illustrated inFIGS. 2, 3 and 7, each of the first basin36and the second basin40includes a base44, a front wall48, a rear wall52, an interior wall56, and an exterior wall60together respectively defining a first basin cavity61and a second basin cavity62. As illustrated inFIGS. 7, 12, and 13, in one example, the first and second cavities61,62are independent of each other and are not in fluid communication with each other such that liquid dumped into one cavity does not flow into the other cavity. The system20may include a plurality of coupling members to couple the first and second basins (36,40) together. In one example, the system20includes a first coupling member63coupled to rear walls62of the first and second basins (36,40). The combined rear walls52create a rear side145of the dump basin24, referenceFIG. 4. The first coupling member63may be coupled to the rear walls52in a variety of manners including, but not limited to, fastening, bonding, welding, adhering, or any other type of temporary, permanent, or semi-permanent coupling process. In the illustrated example, the first coupling member63is fastened to the rear walls52of the first and second basins (36,40) as shown inFIGS. 3, 5 and 7. The first coupling member63not only secures the first and second basins (36,40) together, but the first coupling member63also covers or blocks a gap that may be present between the rear walls52of the first and second basins (36,40), thereby inhibiting liquid that may be dumped onto the dump basin24from flowing through the gap and off of the dump basin24.

In one example, the system20includes a plurality of second coupling members65coupling the first and second basins (36,40) together. With particular reference toFIGS. 5 and 7, the plurality of second coupling members65may be generally “C”-shaped members with each of the second coupling members65including a base66and two flanges67extending from the base66. The base66of each of the second coupling members65rests upon top edges69of the interior walls56of the first and second basins (76,40), one of the flanges67extends downward into the first basin36, and the other of the flanges67extends into the second basin40. The second coupling members65not only secure the first and second basins (36,40) together, but the second coupling members65also block a gap that may be present between the adjacent interior walls36of the first and second basins (36,40), thereby inhibiting liquid that may be dumped onto the dump basin24from flowing through the gap and off of the dump basin24.

As illustrated inFIGS. 5 and 7, at a coupling rear end55of the second coupling member65provides for a rear wall extension57extending orthogonal, or at least substantial orthogonal, to the base66and opposite the flanges67. The rear wall extension57it fastened to the rear walls52of the first and second basins (36,40) as shown inFIG. 12. The rear wall extension57is positioned along the rear walls52of the first and second basins (36,40) such that the rear wall extension57abuts, or alternatively is in close proximity to, the first coupling member63when the first coupling member63is positioned on the rear walls52of the first and second basins (36,40). The rear wall extension57not only works with the first coupling member63to secure the first and second basins (36,40) together, but the rear wall extension57works with the first coupling member63to cover or block a gap that may be present between the rear walls52of the first and second basins (36,40), thereby inhibiting liquid that may be dumped onto the dump basin24from flowing through the gap and off of the dump basin24. The rear wall extension57provides a covers or blocks a gap between the interior walls56and the rear walls52, inhibiting liquid that may be dumped on the dump basin from flowing off the dump basin24.

In one example, the second coupling members65merely rest upon the interior walls56of the first and second basins (36,40). In other examples, the second coupling members65may be temporarily, permanently, or semi-permanently secured to the first and second basins (36,40) in any manner (e.g., fastening, adhering, welding, bonding, etc.).

With particular reference toFIGS. 3, 4, 7, 12 and 15, the rear walls52and the exterior walls60of the first and second basins (36,40) are substantially taller than the front walls48and the interior walls56. With this configuration, the dump basin24provides a floor64elevated above bases44of the first and second basins (36,40), three closed-off sides (i.e., the rear wall52and two exterior walls60extending above the floor64), and one open side (i.e., the front wall48being substantially shorter than the other three walls). When the first and second basins (36,40) are combined to create the dump basin24, the front walls48of each basin (36,40) combine to provide for a front side147of the dump basin24, referenceFIG. 12. The open side of the dump basin24allows an earthmoving implement32to drive onto the basin24and dump the solid/liquid mixture119, referenceFIGS. 1 and 22. The three closed-oft sides inhibit liquid from running or splashing off the floor64of the basin24. In other words, the rear and exterior walls52,60direct any liquid contacting the walls away from the walls and back onto the floor64of the dump basin24.

In one example, a removable front splash shield may be coupled to the dump basin24adjacent the front walls48of the first and second basins (36,40) to inhibit liquid from running or splashing off the front of the floor64. In such an example, the front splash shield would be installed after the earthmoving implement32has driven onto the floor64and be removed prior to the earthmoving implement32driving off of the floor64. The front splash shield may have any width and any height. In one example, the front splash shield may be about 8 inches in height and extends substantially the entire distance across the front of the dump basin24.

Referring now toFIGS. 1-3, and 7, the system20includes one example of ramps68allowing the earthmoving implement32to elevate from a ground surface up, onto the floor64of the dump basin24. Any type of apparatus may be used to elevate the earthmoving implement32onto the floor64of the dump basin24. In another example, a hole may be dug into the ground surface and the dump basin24may be placed in the ground surface such that the floor64of the dump basin24is level with the ground surface. In such, an example, ramps or other apparatuses are not required to elevate the earthmoving implement32onto the floor64. In a further example, the ground can be moved to be level with the top of the front wall48of the dump basin24, thereby allowing an earthmoving implement32to drive onto the floor64of the dump basin24. In such an example, ramps or other apparatuses are not required to elevate the earthmoving implement32onto the floor64.

With reference toFIGS. 1 and 7, a removable platform66may be positioned between the dump basin24and the ramps68, where the removable platform86contacts, or is in close proximity to, the front walls43of the basins (36,40). The ramps68are in releasable contact, or substantially close to, the removable platform86, opposite the front walls48of the basins (36,40). The removable platform86structurally allows for a truck23to drive onto the platform from the ramps and onto the floors64of the dump basin24.

With reference toFIGS. 2 and 7, in one example, the floor64is comprised or a plurality of floor port ions. In another example, the floor64may be a single, unitary member. In the illustrated example, the floor64is comprised of four floor portions64a-64d.

With specific reference toFIGS. 3, S and11, each floor portion comprises a flat, or substantially flat, plane23. The floor comprises a top surface25and a lower surface27defined by floor perimeter29. As illustrated inFIG. 11, the top surface25, and lower surface27are separated by a floor thickness31. As further illustrated inFIG. 11, in close proximity to the perimeter23, the top surface25bevels towards the lower surface27, a contacts the lower surface27along the perimeter25.

As illustrated inFIG. 7, the floor64of the dump basin24defines a plurality of apertures72therein allowing liquid and small solid and finer solids (122,124) to pass through the floor64and into the first and second cavities61,62of the first and second basins (36,40),125, referenceFIG. 23. The apertures72may have a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and configurations defined in the floor64and all of which are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The apertures72may have a size, shape, and be configured based on the application in which the dump basin24will be used and the type of solid/liquid mixture to separate. In one example, the apertures72may all be the same size and shape. In ether examples, the apertures72may vary in size and/or shape in different areas on the floor64.

In one example, the apertures72may be about 0.25 inches wide and about 3 inches long. In other examples, the apertures72may be between about 0.1875 inches and about 2 inches wide and between about 1 inch and about 6 inches long.

The apertures72may be formed in the floor64in a variety of manners. In one example, the apertures72may be plasma cut into the floor64. The floor64can have a variety of thickness and be made of a variety of materials, in one example, floor64is made of steel and is about 0.25 inches thick. In such an example, the apertures72may be plasma cut into the steel floor64.

With particular reference toFIGS. 8-10B, the apertures72have a consistently spaced orientation relative to each other. As illustrated inFIG. 8, the apertures72for floor64dare generally angled acutely from the direction of the floor front126in the direction of the floor inner side127, which contacts the second coupling member65when the floor is in position within the dump basin24, referenceFIG. 7. The apertures72are angled acutely with respect to the front side147, referenceFIG. 7. Specifically, the apertures are arranged at a 45 degree angle. The apertures72are also arranged over substantially the entire floor64d, and provide for a first embodiment of the aperture arrangement128. As illustrated inFIG. 9, the same orientation of the apertures72applies to the apertures72within floor64c. The apertures72within floor64care generally arranged over the entire floor64c, with the exception of a central region129in close proximity to the floor inner side127. The central region129provides for a reduced concentration of apertures72. The reduced concentration of apertures72reduces the amount of solids (121,122,124) from passing through apertures72that may be immediately under the location where the solid/liquid mixture119is dumped.FIG. 9illustrates a second embodiment of the aperture arrangement128′.FIGS. 8 and 9represent floors64cand64dwhich are positioned in the second basin40, referenceFIG. 7. As illustrated inFIG. 7, floors64aand64bare positioned in the first basin36. The apertures of floor64aare oriented from the floor front126in the direction of the floor inner side127, and thus oriented opposite that of the apertures72of floor64d. The apertures72of floor64aare also arranged over substantially the entire floor64a, and provide for the first embodiment, of the aperture arrangement128. When in position in the dump basin the apertures72of floors64aand64dprovide for a chevron shape in the direction of the rear walls52, referenceFIG. 2. The apertures of floor64bare oriented from the floor front126in the direction of the floor inner side127, and thus oriented opposite that of the apertures72of floor64c. The arrangement of the apertures of floor64cprovides for the second embodiment of the aperture arrangement128′ with the central region129in close proximity to the floor inner side127of floor64c. When in position in the dump basin the apertures72of floors64banti64cprovide for a chevron shape in the direction of the rear walls52, referenceFIG. 2.

It should be understood the above is only one of many possible orientations and ail possible orientations of apertures72are within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 10A, the apertures72of a floor (64a,64b,64c,64d) may be oriented in a substantially linear pattern which is substantially parallel to the floor inner side127. This orientation is orthogonal to the front side147, referenceFIG. 7for orientation the apertures72with respect to the front walls43which comprise the front side147. Further, as illustrated inFIG. 108, the apertures72of a floor (64a,64b,64c,64d) may be orientated in a substantially linear pattern which is substantially orthogonal to the floor inner side127. This orientation is parallel to the front side147, referenceFIG. 7for orientation the apertures72with respect to the front walls46which comprise the front side147. Further, the apertures72may be randomly arranged in the floor64. In another example, the apertures72may be defined in some portions of the floor64and not present in other portions of the floor64.

It is understood that features of the first embodiment of the aperture arrangement128may be combined with features of the second embodiment of the aperture arrangement128′. It understood that features of the orientation of the apertures72as illustrated inFIGS. 8 and 9may be combined with features of the orientation of the apertures as illustrated inFIG. 10A. It is understood that features of the orientation of the apertures72as illustrated inFIGS. 8 and 9may be combined with features of the orientation of the apertures as illustrated inFIG. 102. It is understood that features of the orientation of the apertures72as illustrated inFIG. 10Amay be combined with features of the orientation of the apertures as illustrated inFIG. 10B.

With reference toFIGS. 7, 12, 13, and 15, an internal surface33of both the sidewall60and the rear wall52of each of the first basin36and the second basin40provides for a floor support35. As illustrated inFIGS. 6 and 7, the floor64, preferably in close proximity to the perimeter29contacts the floor support35where the perimeter29of the particular floor (64a,64b,64c,64d) is in close proximity to one of the sidewall60and the rear wall52of each of the first basin36and the second basin40. The contact between the floor64and the floor support35is removable, allowing for the floor64to be lifted from the floor support35. The contact between the floor support35is a loading bearing support allowing for a truck32to drive onto the floor64a deposit a solid/liquid mixture in the dump basin24.

As illustrated inFIG. 5, the floor64, preferably in close proximity to the perimeter29contacts the second coupling member65, which covers the interior walls of the first basin36and the second basin40, where the perimeter29of the particular floor (64a,64b,64c,64d) is positioned against the second coupling member65. The contact between the floor64and the second couple member65is removable, allowing for the floor64to be lifted from the second coupling member65. The combination of the interior walls and the second coupling member65provides for a loading bearing support allowing for a truck32to drive onto the floor64a deposit a solid/liquid mixture in the dump basin24.

With reference toFIGS. 8-11, the lower surface27of each floor (64a,64b,64cand64d) extends at least one, put preferably four structural trusses59. As illustrated inFIG. 11, the structural trusses59comprise truss legs71extending from lower surface27. Opposite the lower surface27a footing extension73is attached to each truss leg7icreating a support footing for each truss59. The footing extension73comprises a footing surface75opposite the legs71. As illustrated inFIG. 7, when a floor (64a,64b,64c,64d) is place in position, in contact with the floor supports35and second coupling member65, the footing surface75of each truss59contacts the base44. Thus, the trusses59provide further structural support to the floor64allowing a truck23to drive onto the floor64and dump a solid/liquid mixture115on the floor64and safely exit the dump basin24.

In one example, the floor64may be unitarily formed with the dump basin24. In another example, the floor64may be removable from the dump basin24. The illustrated example of the dump basin24includes a removable floor64. Removability of the floor64may serve several purpose including, but not limited to, access to the first and second basins (36,40) for cleaning and removing solids, access to the first and second basins (36,40) for repairing or replacing damaged components, replacement of one or more floor portions64a-64dif they become damaged, among others.

With continued reference toFIGS. 2, 3, and 5-7, each floor portion64a-64dincludes a plurality of lift mechanisms60to which a crane, lift, tractor, etc., may be coupled to lift each of the floor portions64a-64dindividually from the dump basin24. In the illustrated example, each floor portion64a-64dincludes four lift mechanisms80to provide a 4-point connection. In other examples, each floor portion64a-64dmay include any number of lift mechanisms80(including zero). In the illustrated example, the lift mechanisms80are pivotal rings coupled to each of the floor portions64a-64d. Each ring80pivots between a storage position, in which the ring80is positioned in a recess84defined in the floor portion64a-64dand does not protrude from the recess84(seeFIGS. 2 and 7-10B), and an operative position, in which the ring80is rotated upward and at least a portion of the ring80protrudes from the recess84to allow a hook, rope, chain, etc., to engage and couple to the ring80for lifting. In the illustrated example, the four lift mechanisms80are symmetrically oriented on each of the floor port ions64a-64dwith respect to the overall weight of the floor portion64a-64dsuch that the floor portion64a-64ois balanced and remains substantially horizontal when lifted via all four lift mechanisms80.

As indicated above, a hydro-evacuation earthmoving implement32is configured to drive onto the floor64of the dump basin24. Thus, the dump basin24must be constructed to support the relatively large weight of the earthmoving implement32and its load. The dump basin24is made of appropriate metal and/or steel to enable it to support the weight of the earthmoving implement32. Since the floor64has to span a wide distance and yet needs to be sufficiently workable to cut apertures72therein and remove the floor64for cleaning and/or repair, the dump basin24must have adequate structure to support the floor64.

With reference toFIGS. 7, 12 and 13, the bases44of the first basin36and the second basin40comprise a base framework37. The base framework37comprises two components, an axial member35and a transverse section41. The axial member39is position centrally between the sidewall60and interior wall56of each of the first basin36and the second basin40from the front wall48to a position in close proximity to the rear wall52. Specifically the axial member39is positioned from the front wall48of a particular basin (36,40) to a beveled edge43of the same basin (36,40). The axial, member39is parallel to, or alternatively substantially parallel to, at least one of the sidewall60and the interior wall56of the respective basin (36,40). The transverse section41is positioned on the base44from the interior wall56of a particular basin (36,40) to the internal surface33of the exterior side wall60of the same basin (36,40). The transverse section41is positioned on the base44at a transverse section location45at least substantially half the distance between the front wall.46and the rear wall52. The transverse section41is perpendicular to, or alternatively at least substantially perpendicular to, the axial member39. The axial member39intersects the transverse section41. The transverse section41preferably comprises parallel members, or substantially parallel members, intersected by the axial member39. Alternatively, the transverse section41may comprise a single member intersected by the axial member39. The axial member39and transverse section41rise above the base44. The respective heights of the axial member39and transverse section41rise above the base44allows for movement of fluid and solids (121,124) over the axial member39and transverse section41in the direction of the respective dram112,130referenceFIG. 24.

With further reference toFIGS. 7, 12 and 13, the beveled edge43is further described. A beveled edge43is positioned at a rear corner51of each basin (36,40). The rear corner51is formed by the intersection of the sidewall60and the rear wall52of the respective basin (36,40). The beveled edge43is fixed against the internal surface33of the sidewall60, the internal surface33of the rear wall52, and the rear corner51. Specifically, the beveled edge43is fized against the internal surface32of the sidewall60below the floor support35along the sidewall60. The beveled edge43is positioned below the floor support.35along the rear wall52. Additionally, the beveled edge is positioned below the floor support35at the rear corner51. The beveled edge43is affixed to each of the sidewall60, rear wall52and rear corner51with a seemed connection. The beveled edge43preferably has a bevel top surface53, referenceFIG. 14. The beveled top surface53extends from the sidewall60and the rear wall52of the respective basin (36,40) in the direction of the interior wall56of the respective basin (36,40). The beveled edge43extends a predetermined distance from the sidewall60and a predetermined distance from the rear wall52and contacts the base44at a seemed connection. Further, the beveled top surface53provides for a pitch towards the base44from at least one of the sidewall60and the rear wall52towards the interior wall56.

The pitch of the beveled top surface53provides for solids (122,124) and liquids that fall thru the floor64onto the beveled top surface53to move towards the interior wall56and continue movement in the direction of the drain112of the respective basin (36,40),131referenceFIG. 24. The construction of the beveled edge43and mating of the Beveled edge to the sidewall60, rear wall52, rear corner51and the base44provides for a seemed transfer of fluid and solids from the beveled edge43to the base44and the respective dram112. These beveled edges43also provide support to the respective basins (36,40).

As illustrated inFIG. 14, a filtration material47may be removably positioned between the beveled edge43and the interior wall56of a respective basin (36,40), in close proximity to, or in contact with the internal surface33of the rear wall52. The filtration material47is positioned against the drain112of at least one of the respective basins (36,40), below the floor64. The filtration material47provides for additional separation of the solids and water before entering the tubes or pipes140and onto the filter container28. The filtration material47may comprise at least one of a polymeric material, straw, hay, and fiber based material.

In one example, the dump basin24is configured to have a slight grade or pitch from the front walls48of the first and second basins (38,40) to the rear walls52in order to ensure the liquid flows toward the rear walls52of the first and second basins (36,40),130,131referenceFIG. 24. In another example, the dump basin24does not have a grade or pitch itself, but a ground surface may be prepared to have a grade or pitch,130,131referenceFIG. 24. The grade or pitch of the dump basin24or the ground surface may be any grade or pitch. In one example, the grade or pitch may be a minimum of about 4-degrees toward the rear of the dump basin24.

With reference toFIG. 12, the exterior walls60each are defined by an exterior base side49and an opposite exterior topside74, where the exterior base side49is pushed against the ground or a support surface. With reference toFIG. 4, the rear walls62are defined by a rear base side76and an opposite rear top side77, where the rear base side76is pushed against the ground or a support surface. As illustrated inFIGS. 12 and 13, when the basins (36,40) of the dump basin24are combined to create the dump basin24, the exterior topside74of each basin (36,40) and the rear top side77of each basin (36,40) are combined to provide for the dump basin top side78. The dump basin top side78comprises at least one top side through hole79along the dump basin top side78. As illustrated inFIG. 13, a removable guard85is described. The removable guard85comprises at least one support member81and a barrier82. The support members81may be positioned through the top side through holes79. The support members81extend from the top side78opposite the ground, and opposite the basin44, and opposite the floor supports35. The barrier82is attached to the support members81along the dump basin top side78. The barrier82extends from the top side78opposite the ground, and opposite the basin44, and opposite the floor supports35. The barrier82is preferably discontinuous. Alternatively, the barrier is continuous. The barrier82may be removably attached or fixed to the support members81.

Referring now toFIGS. 1-4, 7, 12-13 and 15, each of the first basin36and the second basin40includes a plurality of second lift mechanisms81to which a crane, lift, tractor, etc., may be coupled to lift the first basin36and the second basin40. These second lift mechanisms91are used when assembling or disassembling the dump basin24(described in more detail below). In the illustrated example, each basin (36,40) includes seven second lift mechanisms91along the basin exterior93of the basin (36,40). The exterior93is opposite the internal surface33further, each basin (36,40) includes four lift mechanism91along the internal surface33. In other examples, each basin (36,40) may include any number of lift mechanisms (including zero). The lift mechanisms91may be at least one of pivotal rings and fixed flanges with an aperture in each flange. The rings91operate in a manner similar to the rings described with respect to the floor64and the fixed flanges91do not move and remain in the same configuration. The lift mechanisms91are symmetrically oriented on each of the basins (36,40) with respect to the overall weight of the basins (36,40) such that the basins (36,40) are balanced when lifted via the lift mechanisms91. Less than ail of the lift mechanisms91may be used to lift the basins (36,40). In doing so, only four of the lift mechanisms91per basin (36,40) may be required to lift each basin (36,40). Alternatively, more than four lift mechanisms91may be used to lift the basin (36,40). Alternatively, less than four lift mechanisms91may be used to lift the basin (36,40).

Upon completion of one or more dumping processes onto the dump basin24, u will be desirable or necessary to remove the solid debris on the top surface of the floor64. As illustrated inFIG. 4, the rear wall52of each basin (36,40) comprises at least one, preferably more than one, structural reinforcement member94. Each member94extends from at least in close proximity to the exterior base side49along the base exterior93to at least in close proximity to the exterior top side74. The members94reinforce each rear-wall52. When the basins are combined to create the dump basin24, the members94provide for reinforced rear walls52to assist with this removal process.

With reference toFIG. 25, in operation, a solid/liquid mixture119would be dumped onto the floor64of the dump basin24in front of the rear walls52,FIG. 22. After an adequate amount of liquid and solids (122,124) has drained through the floor64and only the larger solid material121remains on the floor64, a skid loader with a bucket, front end loader, or other type of machine,132may be driven onto the floor64of the dump basin24, move its bucket along the top surface of the floor64into the solid material remaining on the top surface of the floor64, and against the rear walls52,133. The rear walls52assist with the solid material moving into the bucket rather than continuing to be pushed toward the rear of the dump basin24. The skid loader then lifts its bucket with the solid debris121therein and moves rearward until the skid loader is free of the dump basin24.

When a sufficient amount of smaller solids accumulates on the bases44of the first and second basins (36,40), the floor64(or floor portions) may be removed to all cleaning of the first and second basins (36,40). The solids121,124may be cleaned from the first and second basins (36,40) in a variety of manners. As illustrated inFIG. 26, with the floors64removed, an earthmoving equipment backhoe134is used to remove the debris, solids121,124, from bases44of the basins (36,40),135. In one example, one or mere individuals may manually scoop, shovel, etc., the debris from the basins (36,40). In another example, a work earthmoving implement, such as a skid loader with a bucket, front end loader, or other type of machine,132, may be used to scoop out the debris. In combination with these examples or in a separate example, the dump basin24may include one or more nozzles configured to spray liquid into the first and second basins (36,40) in order to clean the debris from the basins (36,40). The nozzles may be coupled to a variety of different types of liquid sources such as, for example, the liquid filtered by the filter container26(described in more detail below), a water truck, its own water source (e.g., city water source or well water source), among others.

Referring now toFIGS. 16-19, one example of a filter container26is illustrated. The filter container29is configured to further filter the solid/liquid mixture dumped onto the dump basin24. As indicated above, the floor64filters a first amount and size of the solid121from the solid liquid mixture, but smaller solids122,124/sediment may pass through the apertures72in the floor64. Further, with the smaller solids122settling on the base44, the remaining solid124/liquid mixture exits the drains112in the first and second basins (36,40), passes through pipes or tubes140and into the filter container28.

As illustrated inFIG. 27, a valve141is coupled to each of the tubes140and is configured to selectively affect flow of liquid through the tubes140. The valves141may be manually operable and may be fully opened, fully closed, or any position between fully opened and fully closed. The valves141may be any type of valve and ail of such possibilities are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. In one example, the valves141may be camlock valves.

With particular reference toFIGS. 16 and 13, the filter container28includes four inlets144, with two of the four inlets at a first height87from, a filter container base90. The second two inlets144of the four inlets are at a second height89from the base90, where the second height89is a greater distance from the base90than that of the first height87. The inlets are positioned at two different heights in order to address pressure concerns caused when the fluid pressure in the filter container approaches the fluid pressure of the fluid in the tubes140. For each pair of inlets, one inlet144for receiving the remaining solid/liquid mixture from each of the first and second basins (36,40). The filter container28includes four deflectors143with one deflector143oriented above and partially in front of each inlet144. When the solid/liquid mixture is dumped onto the dump basin24, a rush of the remaining mixture will be forced through the dump basin24, out of the drains112, and into the filter container28. The deflectors143are in the path of the rushing remaining solid/liquid mixture and create a resistance or turbulence to the rushing remaining solid/liquid mixture. This resistance or turbulence knocks-down or causes the remaining solid in the mixture to settle within the filter container28.

The filter container26also includes a weir plate152to assist with removing the remaining solids from the liquid. As illustrated inFIG. 16, the filter container23includes at least one support156on each side of the filter container28for engaging and supporting ends of one or more weir plates152in the filter container28. The filter container23includes a plurality of weir plates152in order to allow adjustment of the water level in the filter container23. A seal may be coupled to one or both of the engaging edges of the weir plates152to assist with sealing between the plates in order to inhibit liquid from passing between the plates152. A seal may also be positioned on a bottom edge of the bottom weir plate to seal against the bottom of the filter container28. The seals may be any type of seal capable of inhibiting liquid from passing between the plates or between the plates and the filter container. For example, the seal may be a gasket, or other resilient member.

With reference toFIG. 17, an alternative embodiment of a wear plate152′ is described. The weir plate152′ comprises a screen or mesh83. The screen or mesh83provides for further separation of solids (124,137) and liquids. It is understood that features of weir plate152may be combined with features of weir plate152′.

In operation, the remaining solid/liquid mixture flows into a first side160of the filter container28including the inlets144(sides of the container, in this example, are defined by the location of the one or more weir plates). Due to gravity, the small solids or sediment settles to the bottom of the filter container28on the first side160as the liquid rises. The deflectors143also inhibit the rushing water from stirring-up or mixing-up the already settled sediment on the first side160. As the liquid rises to the top of the weir plate(s)152, substantially only liquid washes over the weir plate(s)152to a second side164of the filter container26since most of the sediment is settled/trapped on the first side160of the filter container28. The filtered liquid may then be pumped from the filter container28with a pump136. When the sediment accumulates to a certain degree in the filter container26, the liquid can be pumped from the filter container28and the sediment can be removed. Once the sediment is removed, the filter container28can be used again as described above.

With reference toFIG. 19, another example of a filter container28′ is illustrated. Components of the filter container28′ illustrated inFIG. 19similar to components of the filter container28inFIGS. 16 and 18will have the same reference numbers. In this example, the filter container23′ is configured to filter both finer solids124and floaters137on the surface of the liquid. Many types of objects, liquids, substances, etc., may have greater buoyancy than the main liquid in the system20. Examples of such floaters137include, but are not limited to oils, plastics, etc. The filter container23′ includes a second weir163to assist with removing floaters137from a surface of the liquid. In the illustrated example, the filter container28′ includes one support156on each side of the filter container23′ for engaging and supporting ends of one or more second weir plates168in the filter container28′. The filter container28′ also includes a stop176at a bottom of each support172to limit the downward travel of the one or more second weir plates163and provide a gap180underneath the one or more second weir plates168and the bottom of the filter container28′. In the illustrated example, a top134of the first weir133is vertically higher than a bottom edge186of the second weir168

In operation, a water level W is maintained in the filter container26′ and such water level W is above both the top edge184of the first weir138and the bottom edge186of the second weir163. The remaining solid124/liquid mixture flows into a first portion194of the filter container28′ defined between the first weir133and an end wall of the filter container28′ near the inlets144. Due to gravity, the small solids or sediment settles124to the bottom of the filter container26′ in the first portion184and floaters137rise to the surface of the water W (or may be suspended in the liquid above the bottom edge188of the second weir168. The deflectors148also inhibit the rushing water from stirring-up or mixing-up the already settled sediment in the first portion194.

The water level W is maintained throughout the filter container23′ and thus the water surface/level W extends throughout the first portion194, a second portion193defined between the first weir138and the second weir168, and a third portion202between the second weir169and an end wall of the filter container28′ opposite the other end wall and inlets144. The rising floaters137moves to the surface of the liquid W in both the first and second portions194,198of the filter container28′. The thickness of the floaters137is typically minimal when compared to the depth of the liquid. Thus, the floaters137on the surface of the liquid W remains well above the bottom edge188of the second weir168. Only liquid is in the filter container23′ below the bottom edge188of the second weir163. Thus, only liquid passes under the bottom edge188of the second weir163into the third portion202of the filter container28′. The filtered liquid can then be removed from the third portion202of the filter container28′. It is understood that features of filter container28may be combined with features of filter container28′.

As illustrated inFIGS. 22-26, upon completion of the dumping process, larger solids124remain on the floor64of the dump basin24, smaller solids121on the basin floor44, and finer solids121or sediment remain in the filter container28, and liquid remains in the filter container28. The larger solids124and smaller solids121may be dumped in most landfills since they have been dewatered. The system20prepares the larger solids to pass the “paint filter test” or solid stability test. Alternatively, the larger solids may be recycled in a variety of manners. The liquid in the filter tank, may be disposed of or may be reintroduced into the earthmoving implement32for future hydro-excavation. As illustrated inFIG. 27, in some examples, the liquid may be run through one or more further filtering processes prior to reuse. For example, the liquid may be pumped through a dual bag filter system142. In other examples, the liquid and/or sediment may be pumped to a Frac tank (e.g., a 10,000 gallon Frac tank)143to remove suspended solids or contaminants for future disposal, reuse, or re-cycling. In further examples, the liquid may be reused directly from the filter container28.

The system70of the present disclosure is easily transportable via truck (e.g., 18-wheeler flatbed truck) over standard roads and highways, which makes it easy to install the system20at any desirable location and to move the system20if necessary. The system20may be located at a variety of locations including, but not limited to, landfills or any worksite where solid/liquid mixtures are being created. Locating the system20at a landfill provides an alternative to dumping solid/liquid mixtures at the landfill. For landfills charging extra fees for solid/liquid mixtures, this extra fee can be avoided by dumping the solid/liquid mixture onto the system20. Then the solid can be dumped at the landfill and the liquid can be reused, recycled, transported to another location, etc.

Additionally, as mentioned above, some landfills prohibit dumping of solid/liquid mixtures. Locating the system20at these landfills prohibiting solid/liquid mixtures will provide an earthmoving implement32with the opportunity to dump the solid/liquid mixture at these landfills. More particularly, the earthmoving implement32may dump the solid/liquid mixture onto the system20, separate the solids from the liquid, and dump the solids at the landfill. Furthermore, the ability to transport the system20allows the systems20to be installed at worksites where solid/liquid mixtures are being created. For example, with respect to hydro-excavation, a hydro-excavation earthmoving implement32may be excavating, thereby creating solid/liquid mixtures. Once the earthmoving implement32is finished excavating, the earthmoving implement32only needs to travel, a short distance to the onsite system20and dump its solid/liquid mixture onto the system20. The liquid may be reintroduced into the earthmoving implement32for further excavating and the solids may be disposed of onsite or at a nearby location. The onsite system20decreases earthmoving implement32travel time to and from landfills or ether dump sites, thereby increasing the operating time and efficiency of the earthmoving implement32and the crew operating the earthmoving implement32. This provides significant cost savings.

With reference toFIG. 20, the system20may be easily assembled and disassembled in order to facilitate transportation of the system20. In the disassembled condition, the system20will fit on a flatbed of an 18-wheeler truck. It should be understood that the system20may be assembled and disassembled in a variety of manners and the steps of assembly and disassembly may occur in different orders. The following example of assembly is only one of many examples of assembly and is not intended to be limiting.

To begin assembly of the system20, the first basin36is lifted by a lift via the lift mechanisms91and placed on a ground surface,95. The lift then lifts the second basin40via the lift mechanisms91and places the second basin40on the ground surface adjacent the first basin36such that the interior walls56of the first and second basins (36,40) engage each other or are extremely close or adjacent each other,97. The ground surface may be pitched or angled placing the first and second basins (36,40) on an incline, or the first and second basins (36,40) may be configured to have a pitch to facilitate gravity feed of the liquid toward the drains112.

With the first and second basins (36,40) in this position on the ground surface, the first coupling member63and the second coupling members65may be used to couple the first and second basins (36,40) together. The first coupling member63is properly positioned and the numerous fasteners are tightened to secure the rear walls52of the first and second basins (36,40) together,38. The second coupling members65are placed over the top edges69of the interior walls56of the first and second basins (36,40),99. The floor64of the system20may tow be installed. The four floor portions64a-64dmay be installed in any order. The lift lifts each of the four floor portions64a-64dvia their lift, mechanisms80and places them in the appropriate location on the first basin36or the second basin40,100. Where a removable platform86is employed, the removable platform86is positioned in contact with or in close proximity to the front wall48of each basin (36,40),101. Ramps68may be placed adjacent the front of the dump basin24, front walls of the basins (36,40), or against the removable platform86opposite the front walls48of the basins (36,40), or the ground surface may be moved to construct a around ramp at the front of the dump basin24or against the removable platform86opposite the front walls43of the basins (36,40), (102a,102b).

The filter container23may be lifted and placed near the dump basin24,103. In some examples, it may be preferred to locate the filter container28near the rear walls of the dump basin24to decrease the length of tubes/pipes140required to couple the drains112of the dump basin24and the inlets144of the filter container28. Once the filter container28is positioned, the pipes144are coupled to the drams112of the dump basin24and the inlets144of the filter container23,104. The desired number of weir plates (152a,152b,152′) may be installed in the filter container28,105. At this point, the system20is ready to receive an earthmoving implement32for dumping solid/liquid mixture.

In some examples, a front plate or shield may be installed at the front of the dump basin24near the front walls48of the first and second basins (36,40) to act as a front splash guard. The front plate would need to be installed after the earthmoving implement32backs onto the floor64of the dump basin24and removed prior to the earthmoving implement32driving off of the dump basin24. In other examples, a ramp may be installed near the front of the dump basin24near the front walls48of the first, and second basins (36,40) to act as a front splash guard. In this example, the ramp may be ramped on one or both sides such that an earthmoving implement (32,132) may back over the ramp when driving onto the floor64and drive over the ramp when driving off of the floor64. Additionally, the ramp is sufficiently high to inhibit liquid from running off the front of the dump basin24. Furthermore, in this example, the ramp would not need to be removed prior to the earthmoving implement. (32,132) driving onto or off of the floor64. In further examples, a slot or aperture may extend across a substantial portion of the floor64near the front of the dump basin24. In this example, the slot or aperture may be significantly longer and wider than any of the apertures72defined in the floor64. Liquid flowing across the floor64toward the front of the dump basin24would fail into the larger slot, or aperture and into one of the first or second basins (36,40).

With reference toFIG. 21, to disassemble the system20, the assembly steps may be performed IP reverse order and the components of the system20may be stacked onto a transportation vehicle, such as a flatbed of an IS-wheeler (106to111,113to115,117,118).

It should be understood that the use of any orientation or directional terms herein such as, for example, “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “rear”, “back”, “left”, “right”, “side”, etc., is not intended to imply only a single orientation of the item with which it is associated or to limit the present disclosure in any manner. The use of such orientation or directional terms is intended to assist with the understanding of principles disclosed herein and to correspond to the exemplary orientation illustrated in the drawings. For example, the system20may be utilized in any orientation and use of such terms is intended to correspond to the exemplary orientation of the system20illustrated in the drawings. The use of these terms in association with the system20is not intended to limit, the system20to a single orientation or to limit the system20in any manner.

It should also be understood that use of numerical, terms such as, for example, “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., should not be interpreted to imply an order or sequence of components or functions. Moreover, use of these numerical terms is not intended to pertain to only the component and/or function with which they are utilised. Rather, the use of these numerical terms are merely used to assist the reader with understanding the subject matter of the present disclosure. For example, one of the components in the specification may be referenced as a “first component”, but the same component may be referenced differently in the claims (e.g., second or third component).