Patent Description:
Marine pollution is a significant problem for the health of the ocean, and a hazard to marine life. Each year, over eight million tonnes of plastic materials enter the ocean, and over <NUM> species are known to have ingested or been entangled in plastic waste in the ocean (EIA, <NUM>). Many marine pollutants enter the oceans via rivers and drainage basins.

The problem of marine pollution is significantly widespread and pervasive such that tackling it poses a significant global challenge. An effective and sustained effort to address the issue of marine pollution requires consideration of both how to reduce current levels of contamination and how to prevent further contamination with minimal ecological footprint. A technological solution must be sufficiently scalable to make a noticeable difference to the problem, but high costs are typically associated with producing and maintaining systems of the required scale.

Aspects and embodiments of the present invention have been devised with the foregoing in mind.

<CIT> describes a submergible marine barrier protecting marine installations in a protected zone against intrusion and providing a containment barrier against spread of floating spills or bodies. The body of the barrier is supported above water by a main body thus preventing intrusion and containing floating spillage. A weight in main body keeps the barrier upright, and a rigid floatation chamber in the main body keeps it afloat when full of air. A skimming pipe collects floating pollution. Flooding the floatation chambers causes the barrier to submerge allowing access to the protected zone and protecting the barrier from storms. Body, main body, and floatation chambers are made of extruded material with flotation properties (e.g. plastic pipes). Floatation chambers are connected by air hoses and have air venting tubes at their bottom. Sensors detect approaching intruders and pollution, while spikes, barbed-wire and diver-net or any known barrier are used to stop them.

<CIT> describes a cleaning device for water flowing in a sewer and containing dirty material with portions of solid matter. The cleaning device has at least one rack part lying essentially below the water surface and having a separating area, through which water can flow and which is effective as a screening area, in combination with a dirt-releasing element movable relative to the rack surface, the dirty material released by the separating area being transported out of the sewer by a conveying device interacting with the dirt-releasing element. The cleaning device is to be improved in such a way that it realizes the performance advantages of the belt screen through which water can flow from inside to outside. This object is achieved in that at least one essentially plane, fixed rack part with a separating area inclined at least in sections to the direction of flow is provided, the receiving part of the conveying device merging into the region of the downstream end of the separating area, and in that the dirt-releasing element is designed to be movable on the separating area.

<CIT> describes a method of removing solid matter from liquid using two or more sets of screening devices installed in series. Each set of screening devices consists of one or more identical or nearly identical screening devices. Each downstream set of screening devices has smaller openings than the preceding upstream set of screening devices. Solid matter collected by the screening devices is automatically discharged onto two or more conveyor systems that deposit the material onto one or more central collection areas for final removal and disposal.

<CIT> describes a floating barrier intended particularly to retain floating bodies drawn along by the current (stream) of a river. The barrier includes a plurality of floating retaining elements articulated at their ends, and a device with retractable gate (sluice) incorporated into the barrier. The device exhibits a rigid connection structure built into the barrier, of the catamaran type with floats and spacer pieces. Between the floats is located a retractable gate allowing the rubbish to be collected from downstream of the barrier. The barrier is used in the fight against pollution of water courses.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for removing debris from a waterway as defined in claim <NUM>. Optional and/or preferable features are defined in claims <NUM>-<NUM>.

In this context, the term "filtered-out" means to substantially prevent the debris from flowing or passing through the barrier system, while allowing fluid to flow through the barrier system. The barrier system may be configured to filter and direct/divert/deflect debris simultaneously. The barrier system may be configured to direct and/or divert or deflect the debris through the action of the incoming fluid flow against the barrier system without any additional mechanical intervention. The incoming fluid flow may comprise a flow of debris and the barrier system may be configured to direct and/or divert or deflect the debris flow towards a side of the waterway, optionally without substantially affecting the fluid flow through the waterway.

The system is intended to be installed at or in a waterway, such as a river, fluvial system, canal or other fluid channel to filter-out and/or extract physical pollution or debris and remove it from the waterway, e.g. to a bank or shore of the waterway or to a vessel such as a boat/ship for collection. In this way, the system can prevent or reduce the amount of physical pollution or debris reaching marine or other water environments. The term "debris" may include any physical pollution and/or pollution materials such as plastic materials/items, plastics particles (macroplastics and microplastics), and/or other types of man-made physical pollution that may enter the waterway upstream of the system (including natural debris such as leaves and branches). The physical pollution or debris may be contained in (i.e. entrained in) and/or floating on a surface of the incoming fluid flow (i.e. water).

The system may be a semi-permanent installation. The debris handling system may be installed at or near a side of the waterway. By directing the debris or physical pollution towards the debris handling system at or near the side of the waterway, the system can be easily installed in any geography with minimum cost (e.g. as opposed to a barrier system that directs debris to the center of the waterway for removal that would require more a complex and substantial physical construction). The semi permanence of the system reduces the cost of installation, enables expedited decommissioning at the end of service, and reduces waterway obstruction. Alternatively, the system may be permanently installed.

The barrier system may comprise one or more barrier portions. The barrier portion(s) may be configured, in use, to filter-out and/or direct/deflect/divert the debris towards the side of the waterway or towards to the debris handling system. The barrier portion(s) may extend across substantially the entire width of the waterway, or a portion of the width of the waterway.

The barrier portion(s) may comprise one or more removable filter elements or panels configured to inhibit debris contained in or on the surface of said incoming fluid flowing through the filter element. The filter element(s) may be formed of or comprise one or more of a metal, rubber, polymer, and fibrous material. The material properties of the filter element(s) may include one or more of: substantially flexible, malleable, strong, non-toxic, and water-resistant. The filter element(s) may comprise one or more perforations/pores to allow fluid to flow through the filter element but inhibit debris contained in or on the surface of fluid flowing through the filter element. The filter element(s) may be or comprise one or more of: a mesh, a net, a perforated curtain, a membrane and a perforated screen. The maximum pore size of the filter element(s) may be approximately <NUM>. The pore size of the filter element(s) may in the range of substantially <NUM> micron to <NUM>, or <NUM> micron to <NUM>, or <NUM> micron to <NUM> microns, or <NUM> micron to <NUM> microns. This may advantageously enable the barrier system to trap and deflect small debris such as (micro)plastics.

Alternatively, the filter element(s) may be substantially impermeable (i.e. with no perforations/pores) such that it inhibits both fluid flow and debris flow through it. In this case, the barrier portion(s) may be or comprise a pure deflection barrier.

The barrier system and/or barrier portion may extend away from the debris handling system at an angle with respect to the direction of fluid flow in the waterway. The angle may be such that the barrier system and/or barrier portion extends at least partially across and upstream the waterway. The angle may be an acute angle. The angle may be substantially between <NUM> to <NUM> degrees, or between substantially <NUM> to <NUM> degrees, or between substantially <NUM> to <NUM> degrees (with respect to the direction of fluid flow in the waterway).

In this way, the action of the (longitudinal) fluid flow in the waterway against the angled barrier system and/or barrier portion may provide a transverse force on the debris and/or a transverse debris flow component directed towards a side of the waterway to direct/deflect/divert and/or move the debris towards the side of the waterway without mechanical intervention. The optimal angle of the barrier system and/or barrier portion may depend on one or more fluid flow conditions (i.e. waterway/river conditions), e.g. flow rate, velocity, and/or the amount of debris to be removed (e.g. this may be estimated or determined prior to installation). The optimal angle may also depend on cost factors related to the length/size of the barrier system and/or barrier portion. For example, a balance between the longitudinal and transverse components (i.e. parallel and perpendicular to the direction of fluid flow) of debris flow at the barrier portion is required to ensure that debris does not get stuck to the barrier portion and that too much energy is not imparted on the barrier portion itself. However, the more acute the angle to the direction of fluid flow, the longer and more expensive the barrier system becomes.

The barrier portion and/or filter element(s) may be configured, in use, to be at least partially submerged in the waterway. The barrier portion and/or filter element(s) may, in use, extend (e.g. in a depth direction) to at least partially the depth of the waterway. Alternatively, the barrier portion and/or filter element(s) may extend substantially the full depth of the waterway. The height of the barrier portion and/or filter element(s) may be in the range of substantially <NUM> to <NUM>.

The barrier system may further comprise one or more ground posts or fixtures configured to hold and/or support the barrier portion(s) and/or filter element(s). The ground posts may be configured to be fixed or fixable (permanently or non-permanently) in/on/to the bed/floor of the waterway.

The barrier system and/or barrier portion(s) may be or comprise a modular attachment such that the barrier system can be replaced and/or exchanged for different barrier designs, such as different depths (e.g. full depth, partial depth). In this way, the barrier system and/or barrier portion(s) can be tailored to the waterway/river requirements.

The barrier portion(s) and/or filter element(s) may be attachable to and/or removable from the debris handling system and/or the ground posts. The barrier portion and/or filter element(s) may be interchangeable attachments that can be installed (e.g. attached to the ground posts and/or the debris handling system), replaced (e.g. when damaged) and/or exchanged with different designs (e.g. partial depth, full depth, different pore size). For example, if the debris is only carried within a small upper proportion of the waterway depth, then the barrier size (height) can be tailored to this. The ground posts may enable the redeployment of the filter element(s) in the event of a storm destroying them.

The debris handling system may comprises a first conveyor. The term "conveyor" may refer to any mechanism capable of transporting solid materials (in this case debris) from one location to another. The first conveyor is configured to receive debris directed by the barrier system and transport debris out of the waterway to a first location. The first conveyor may comprise a first end and a second end. The first conveyor may be configured to transport debris from the first end to the second end. The first conveyor may be or comprise a substantially linear conveyor, such as a conveyor belt or ramp. Alternatively, the first conveyor may be or comprise a rotary conveyor. For example, the rotary conveyor may have a water wheel-type configuration, whereby it is configured to transport debris in a circumferential direction about its axis of rotation. Alternatively, the rotary conveyor may have a screw-type configuration, such as an Archimedes screw or similar mechanism. The screw may be configured to transport debris in a direction substantially parallel to its axis of rotation.

The first conveyor may be arranged at an incline with respect to the direction of fluid flow. The first conveyor may comprise an inclined and/or sloped portion. In this way, the first conveyor may be configured to lift or move debris out of the waterway, e.g. out of the fluid/water. In this context, the term "incline" means a slope (in the X-Z or Y-Z plane) with a positive gradient. The incline angle may be in the range <NUM> to <NUM> degrees with respect to the vertical or horizontal directions. The optimal angle may depend on one or more fluid flow conditions, e.g. flow rate, velocity, and/or the amount of debris to be removed (e.g. this may be estimated or determined prior to installation).

The first conveyor may comprise one or more drains or apertures configured to permit fluid to drain away. Alternatively or additionally, the first conveyor may comprise a plurality of lift members such as ribs or baffles configured to lift or scoop debris out of the waterway and/or load the first conveyor. The plurality of lift members may be configured to permit fluid to drain through them and/or away. Allowing the fluid to drain away may reduce the mechanical load on the first conveyor, particularly at relative steep incline angles.

Each lift member/baffle/rib may extend across substantially the width of the first conveyor (i.e. a continuous lift member/baffle/rib). Alternatively, each lift member/baffle/rib may comprise a series of shorter lift members/baffles/ribs that together span substantially the width of the first conveyor (i.e. a discontinuous lift member/baffle/rib). The or each lift member/baffle/rib may extend in a substantially transverse direction across the first conveyor. Where the first conveyor has a screw-type configuration, it may comprise one or more radial or helical lift members/baffles/ribs (that may be continuous or discontinuous).

The or each lift member/baffle/rib may comprise one or more filter elements with one or more perforations to allow the fluid to drain therethrough. The filter element may be or comprise one or more of: a mesh, net and grid, and membrane. Where the first conveyor is of the belt type, the whole belt may be formed of or comprise one or more filter element(s), i.e. in addition to or instead of transverse baffles.

The pore size of the filter element(s) may in the range of substantially <NUM> micron to <NUM>, or <NUM> micron to <NUM>, or <NUM> micron to <NUM> microns, or <NUM> micron to <NUM> microns. This may advantageously enable the conveyor to trap and lift small plastic debris.

The first location may be on a bank or shore of the waterway. The first conveyor may be configured to transport debris from the waterway to one or more storage containers at the first location, e.g. for later removal.

The first conveyor may comprise a shield to prevent debris from passing behind and/or escaping the first conveyor. The shield may be configured to funnel debris towards the first conveyor and/or a separate funnel or diverting means may be provided. The shield may be located at, adjacent and/or near to the first end of the first conveyor.

The debris handling system may further comprise one or more turbines configured to drive and/or move the first conveyor and/or the debris handling system. The one or more turbines may be actuated by the fluid flow through the waterway. In this way, the system may be fully autonomous and not require any external electrical power. The one or more turbines may be or comprise helical turbines. The one or more turbines may be or comprise axial turbines, e.g. axial impellers/propellers. The one or more turbines may be or comprise in-line turbines, e.g. a Pelton turbines and/or water wheels).

The one or more turbines may be connected to a primary driveshaft to rotate the driveshaft. Where there is more than one turbine, each turbine may be coupled to the same primary driveshaft (e.g. in series), or to separate primary driveshafts. Multiple turbines may provide a greater mechanical torque to drive the first conveyor and/or debris handling system. The first conveyor may be coupled directly or indirectly to the primary driveshaft(s) such that rotation of the primary driveshaft(s) or turbine(s) drives the first conveyor. Rotational power may be provided directly to rollers in the first conveyor, which, in turn, drives the belt of the first conveyor, e.g. through contact/friction. This friction/contact can be obtained through a variety of methods, such as the roller having teeth, a high friction belt/roller combination, or a drive chain.

The one or more turbines may be arranged downstream of the barrier portion(s) or filter element(s) to protect the turbine(s) and/or prevent debris from entering the turbine(s). Additionally or alternatively, the turbine(s) may be arranged at a position below the barrier portion(s) and/or filter element(s), such that the barrier portion(s) and/or filter element(s) do not interfere with the fluid flow through the turbine(s).

The system may further comprise a gearing system and/or gearbox coupled to the primary driveshaft(s), configured to control the rate of movement of the first conveyor. The rate of movement (e.g. rate of rotation) of the first conveyor may be controlled to be at a speed proportional to the speed of the one or more turbines, which in turn rotates proportionally to the fluid flow. The rate at which debris is filtered-out and/or directed/deflected/moved by the barrier system towards to the debris handling system depends on the fluid flow rate (as well as the angle of the barrier portion). The gearing system may ensure that the first conveyor moves at a rate necessary to prevent excess accumulation of debris or physical pollutants on, at or near to the first conveyor before being removed from the waterway (i.e. transported to the first location). The gearing system may be or comprise a set of bevel gears. The gearing system may be configured to gear up or down the speed of the turbine for the first conveyor. The gearing system may comprise a gearbox with a fixed ratio. Alternatively, the gearbox may have adjustable ratios. In either case, the gearing ratio may be set dependent on the expected concentration of debris/pollutants and flow rate at the site in the area where the system is situated.

The first conveyor may be coupled indirectly to the primary driveshaft(s) via a mechanical power transmission system. The mechanical power transmission system may be configured to transmit the torque generated by the turbines to a secondary driveshaft coupled to the first conveyor where it is applied.

The mechanical power transmission system may comprise one or more gearboxes. The gearboxes may be <NUM> degree gearboxes. A first gearbox may be or comprise a horizontal to vertical gearbox and a second gearbox may be or comprise vertical to horizontal gear box. The first and second gearbox may be connected by an intermediate shaft. The first gearbox may couple the primary driveshaft to the intermediate shaft. The second gearbox may couple the intermediate shaft to the secondary driveshaft.

The one or more gearboxes may comprise a unitary transmission (gear) ratio, e.g. <NUM>:<NUM>. Alternatively, the one or more gearboxes may be configured to control the rate of movement of the first conveyor. For example, the one or more gearboxes may comprise a non-unitary gear ratio and/or a variable or adjustable ratio. Each gearbox may have the same or different transmission ratio. The one or more gearboxes may be configured to increase or decrease the rate of rotation of the secondary driveshaft with respect to the rate of rotation of the primary driveshaft. In this way, the rate of movement (e.g. rate of rotation) of the first conveyor may be controlled to be at a speed proportional to the speed of the one or more turbines, which in turn rotates proportionally to the water flow velocity. The one or more gearboxes may be or comprise a set of bevel gears. The transmission ratio of the one or more gearboxes may be <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, or <NUM>:<NUM>. Gear ratios may be determined by fluid and debris flow conditions in the waterway. For example, the fluid flow speed and debris concentration may determine the required clearing rate (i.e. debris removal rate) for the debris handling system and how much the turbine rotation needs to be stepped down.

The turbine(s) may also be configured to provide an electrical power output. The electrical power output may be stored in one or more electrical storage units, such as a battery, for later use. For example, the system may also comprise one or more generators coupled to the driveshaft(s), the turbine(s), and/or the gearbox(es) to transform rotation of the one or more turbines into electrical power (e.g. as with a hydro-electric turbine). The generator may be an alternator or dynamo-type generator, or any other suitable generator known in the art. Multiple turbines may provide a higher energy output over a given period of time.

The debris handling system may further comprise one or more motors to drive or supplement driving the first conveyor, for example during periods of low fluid flow in the waterway. In this way, the first conveyer may be driven by the fluid flow in the waterway and/or electric motors. The one or more motors may be electrically connected to the one or more generators and/or batteries for powering the one or more motors.

The debris handling system further comprises a floatable platform. The floatable platform is configured to be moored or secured at or near a side of the waterway. The ground post(s) may be used to moor/secure the platform. The first conveyor is mounted on or to the platform. Additionally, the one or more turbines may be mounted on or to the platform. The floatable platform allows the system to be a semi-permanent installation that is straightforward and relatively inexpensive to install, particularly in difficult to reach locations. In addition, the platform may float up and down with any tidal bores or storm surges, enabling year round operation in major waterways.

The system may comprise one or more storage containers for receiving the debris at the first location.

The debris handling system further comprises a second conveyor. The second conveyor is configured to receive debris from the first conveyor at the first location and transport the debris to a second location. The second conveyor may comprise a first end (at or near the first location) and a second end (at or near the second location). The second conveyor may be configured to transport debris from the first end to the second end. The second location is on a bank or shore of the waterway. The system may comprise one or more storage containers for receiving the debris at the second location. The second conveyor may be configured to transport debris from the first location to the one or more storage containers at the second location, e.g. for later removal.

The first location may be elevated with respect to the second location. For example, the size, length and/or vertical angle of the first conveyor may be such that the first location is elevated with respect to the second location and/or the level/plane of the bank or shore of the waterway. This ensures the angle or gradient of the second conveyor remains positive with respect to the ground plane, e.g. during normal tidal cycles.

The second conveyor may be or comprise a conveyor belt. The conveyor belt may also be driven by the one or more turbines. Alternatively, the second conveyor may not be driven, e.g. it may be a static conveyor. The second conveyor may be configured to transport debris to the second location under the action of gravity (e.g. due to the positive angle/gradient between first and second locations). The second conveyor may be arranged at a decline or the second conveyor may comprise a declined portion. In this context, the term "decline" means a slope (in the X-Z or Y-Z plane) with a negative gradient. For example, the second conveyor may be or comprise a gravity slide. Alternatively or additionally, transportation of debris along the second conveyor may be aided by a mechanical vibrator, e.g. powered by the generator(s) and/or batteries.

The second conveyor comprises a first mounting portion and a second mounting portion. The second conveyor is rotatably mounted/mountable on or to the platform at the first mounting portion. The second conveyor is rotatably mountable on or to said bank or shore of the waterway at the second mounting portion.

The second conveyor may comprise a first end and a second end. The first mounting portion may be located at or near the first end of the second conveyor and the second mounting portion may be located at or near the second end of the second conveyor. Alternatively, the first end may rotatably mounted/mountable on or to the platform and the second end may be rotatably mountable on or to a bank or shore of the waterway. The first mounting portion and/or first end may be mounted/mountable on or to the platform by a first support leg. The second mounting portion and/or second end may be mountable on or to the bank/shore by a second support leg.

The first mounting portion and/or first end may be coupled to a first rotatable coupling mounted/mountable on or to the platform. The second mounting portion and/or second end may be coupled to a second rotatable coupling mountable on or to said bank or shore. The first rotatable coupling may be coupled (rotatably or fixedly) to the first support leg and the second rotatable coupling may be coupled (rotatably or fixedly) to the second support leg. The first/second rotatable coupling may comprise the first/second support leg, or vice versa.

Each of the first and second rotatable couplings may be configured to permit rotation of the second conveyor about two axes. The two axes may be substantially vertical and horizontal axes.

The first and second rotatable couplings may comprise one or more rotatable joints. The first and second rotatable couplings may be or comprise rotatable hinges. Additionally or alternatively, the second end of the second conveyor may be slidably coupled to the second rotatable coupling to permit movement/translation of the second conveyor in one or more directions relative to the second rotatable coupling and/or to permit movement/translation of the second conveyor in one or more directions relative to said bank or shore. Additionally or alternatively, the first end of the second conveyor may be slidably coupled to the first rotatable coupling to permit movement/translation of the first end in one or more directions relative to the first rotatable coupling and/or to permit movement/translation of the second conveyor in one or more directions relative to said bank or shore. The first and/or second rotatable couplings may be or comprise a rotatable pin slot hinge.

Alternatively, the first conveyor may comprise an inclined portion and a declined portion configured to transport debris from the waterway to the first and/or second location.

The floatable platform may be configured to permit movement in three orthogonal directions (x, y, z), with potential for rotation (although anchoring the platform via moorings may reduce the extent of x, y and rotational movement of the platform). The combination of two rotatable joints that each permit rotation about a vertical axis, two rotational joints that each permit rotation about a horizontal axis, and at least one slidable joint enabling translation/movement in a horizontal direction allows for this potential movement. In this way, the system can accommodate vertical and horizontal movement (and rotation) of the platform relative to the bank/shore (i.e. relative to the second location) during normal tidal cycles without affecting operation of the system. This also reduces the mechanical stress on the system during such movements. Rotatable hinges with/without slidable coupling are one way of achieving the desired freedom of movement, but it will be appreciated that other types of couplings may be used.

The second conveyor may have two or three degrees of freedom of movement. The second conveyor may have two or three axes of translation. The second conveyor may have two rotation axes and one linear translation axis.

The first support leg may comprise a coupling such as a ball/socket joint to allow for potential yaw/roll in the floating platform. This may help keep the second conveyor in its correct orientation with regards to rotation about the horizontal and vertical axes.

The barrier system and/or barrier portion may extend at least partially across the width of the waterway. Alternatively, the barrier system and/or barrier portion may extend across substantially the width of the waterway. The barrier system and/or barrier portion may be substantially linear. For example, the barrier system may comprise a single substantially linear angled barrier portion. The linear barrier portion may be substantially continuous.

In an embodiment, the barrier system and/or barrier portion may be non-linear. The barrier system may extend across the width of the waterway in a substantially V-shaped configuration such that, in use, debris contained in and/or floating on a surface of said incoming fluid flow is directed or deflected towards either side of the waterway. The V-shaped barrier configuration may be pointed upstream (e.g. with the vertex of the V pointing upstream). The V-shape barrier system may be or comprise a substantially continuous V-shaped barrier portion or two separate barrier portions each angled to direct debris towards different side of the waterway. Advantageously, a V-shaped barrier system interacts with the flow profile of a river, e.g. where the flow is fastest in the middle due to boundary layer effects, in a most efficient manner, directing material to either side.

In this case, the system may comprise a pair of debris handling systems configured to receive the debris directed by the barrier system and remove the debris from the waterway. The pair of debris handling systems may be installed at or near opposing sides of the waterway.

The barrier system may further comprise a gate, such as a ship gate, configured to open and close to allow or control shipping access through the barrier system (e.g. from upstream and/or downstream of the system). The gate may extend (e.g. in a depth direction) at least partially the depth of the waterway. Alternatively, the gate may extend substantially the full depth of the waterway.

Where the barrier system is linear, the gate may be located at a location along the length of the barrier system. For example, where the barrier system extends across substantially the width of the waterway, the gate may be located substantially centrally in the barrier system.

Where the barrier system is substantially V-shaped, the gate may be located at the vertex of the V, i.e. approximately central in the water way. The gate may also be or comprise a V-shape, e.g. pointed upstream, such that debris is directed/deflected to either side of the gate when closed. The V-shaped gate may also help to resist any opening force or fluid pressure from the fluid flow.

The gate may be or comprise a leaf gate. The leaf gate may comprises one or two leaves (e.g. panels) that hinge/swing open (i.e. pivot between an open and closed position). The leaves may pivot about a substantially vertical or horizontal axis. Alternatively, the gate may be or comprise a sliding gate. For example, the gate may comprise one or more panels that slide between an open and closed position. The one or more panels may slide in a substantially vertical or lateral (i.e. in the horizontal plane) direction. The sliding gate may be or comprise a guillotine gate. The panels and/or leaves may be substantially planar or curved. Alternatively, the gate may be or comprise any other movable gate or barrier known in the art. The gate (e.g. the leaves or panels) may be substantially impermeable (i.e. no openings/perforations) such that it inhibits both fluid flow and debris flow through the gate (i.e. when closed). The gate may be constructed of wood, plastic and/or metal (e.g. steel) materials. The properties of the gate may include one or more of: substantially rigid, tough/strong and waterproof. The gate may be supported by the one or more ground posts or fixtures.

Alternatively, the gate may comprise one or more perforations/openings to allow a fluid flow through the gate and inhibit debris from flowing through the gate (i.e. when closed). In this embodiment, the gate may be or comprise one or more of: a mesh, a net, a perforated curtain, a membrane and a perforated screen. The maximum pore size of the gate may be approximately <NUM>. The pore size of the gate may in the range of substantially <NUM> micron to <NUM>, or <NUM> micron to <NUM>, or <NUM> micron to <NUM> microns, or <NUM> micron to <NUM> microns.

The gate may be manually operated or electrically operated. Power for electrical operation can be extracted from the turbine(s). For example, the turbines may provide a significant surplus energy over the material handling requirements. Operation of the gate may be controlled remotely (e.g. from the shore) or proximate to the gate, e.g. through a drive chain or similar mechanism.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of removing debris from a waterway as defined in claim <NUM>.

The step of directing and/or deflecting the (optionally filtered-out) debris towards a side of the waterway may comprise directing and/or deflecting the filtered-out debris towards a debris handling system located at a side of the waterway.

The method may further comprise transporting the filtered-out and/or directed debris to one or more storage container for removal.

The method may further comprise periodically emptying the one or more storage containers. "Periodically" could be at regular or irregular time intervals, and/or when emptying is required e.g. when the one or more storage containers is too full.

For any of the above aspects/embodiments, the turbines may be provided in a horizontal arrangement for rotation about a substantially horizontal axis, or may be implemented in a vertical arrangement for rotation about a substantially vertical axis.

The turbine may be e.g. a helical turbine of the Gorlov type. Alternatively the turbine may be of the Savonius type. The turbine blades may be configured with a non-uniform blade profile or cross-section in the radial to improve the torque and efficiency characteristics of the turbine. The thickness of the blade may decrease or increase in the radial direction, or be constant. The radial rate of change in blade thickness can be fixed/constant, linear or non-linear.

A flow channel may be provided for directing a flow of water2 in the waterway to one or more turbines. The flow channel may be configured to funnel a water flow towards the turbine so as to accelerate the flow rate or increase the flow velocity at or through the turbine and increase its power output. The flow channel may be mounted, secured or anchored to the shore or bank of the waterway, the side or bottom of the waterway, or to the floatable platform. The flow channel may be part of the debris handling system or a separate element. The flow channel may comprise a first portion for funneling a flow of water into a second portion of reduced cross-sectional area in which one or more of the turbines are located. The flow channel or second portion of the flow channel may be attachable to the floatable platform to maintain the position of the second portion relative to the turbine. The first portion may be a substantially funnel-shaped fluid conduit, having an inlet for receiving a flow of water with a first cross-sectional area and/or a first flow velocity and an outlet for outputting a flow of water with a second cross-section area and/or a second flow velocity. The second cross-sectional area may be smaller than that the first cross-sectional area such that the second flow velocity is greater than the first flow velocity by virtue of the Venturi effect. The second portion may be fluidly connected to the outlet of the first portion for receiving the flow with the second cross-sectional areas and/or second flow velocity. The or each turbine may be arranged horizontally or vertically within the second portion of the flow channel (or there may be combination of horizontal and vertically arranged turbines). The flow channel may comprise a deflector for directing flow of water away from the returning blade of the turbine and into the advancing blade. The flow channel may be arranged horizontally or vertically with respect to the waterway. The first portion may comprise one or more substantially straight sidewalls when viewed in cross-section, however, it will be appreciated that any shape of the first portion suitable to provide the function of increasing the flow velocity at the turbine may be used. It may instead comprise one or more curved sidewalls when viewed in cross-section (or a combination of straight or curved walls). In addition or alternatively, the flow channel may comprise one or more flotation devices (e.g. a plurality of floats attached at or near the top of the flow channel to maintain the flow channel at a predefined depth.

The anchor member may be used to moor or secure the floatable platform at or near a side of the waterway. Alternatively or additionally, the anchor member may be used as a ground post for the barrier system, or to mount, secure or anchor the flow channel to the shore or bank or bottom of the waterway. The anchor member may function as a temporary or semi-permanent foundation or anchor pile, and may be configured to be driven into a foundation layer such as the shore, bank, side or bottom of the waterway to resist up-lift forces and transfer loads to the foundation layer. The anchor member may comprise a column member and a screw member attached to a lower end of the column member for driving into and securing the anchor member to a foundation layer. A flange portion or member may also be provided at the lower end of the column portion above the screw member for steadying the anchor member against lateral loads and/or preventing over-turning of the screw member. The flange portion may be integral with the column member, or may be a separate member attachable or attached to the column portion. A handle portion is attachable or fixedly attached to an upper end of column portion for manually rotating and driving the anchor member into a foundation layer. The column portion may comprise an aperture for slidably receiving the handle portion. The handle portion may be a substantially bar or rod-shaped member as shown. Alternatively, handle member may be substantially curved. The column portion may be substantially hollow with a drainage aperture at or near its lower end, to allow water to drain out when removing the anchor member.

A mobile conveyor system or debris handling system for removing debris from a waterway according is provided according to an embodiment of one of the aspects above, or as a separate (fourth) aspect. The mobile conveyor system may be used in conjunction with the system described above. The mobile conveyor system may also be used in the place of the debris handling system defined above to perform the function of the first and second conveyors. The mobile conveyor system may be used and arranged to receive the debris directed by the barrier system and remove the debris from the waterway. In this way, the mobile conveyor system may provide an alternative debris handling system.

The mobile conveyor system may provide a cost-effective mobile solution to debris removal which can quickly, easily and inexpensively change its location at any time. The mobile conveyor system may be highly maneuverable and can be positioned on uneven surfaces and/or in places where long term arrangements are not feasible. The barrier system may be assembled using the above described semi-permanent anchor member to permit rapid installation.

The mobile conveyor system may comprise a container body that can be mounted/loaded onto and transported using a vehicle, such as an airplane, lorry, truck or standard special purpose vehicle (SPV). The container body may be a standard container chassis, such as a shipping container (typically/exemplary about <NUM>-meters). The container body may comprise one or a plurality of support members or legs, such as outrigger stabilizing legs, for supporting and stabilizing the mobile conveyor system on a surface. Each support member may be individually adjustable in length to support and stabilize the mobile conveyor system on an uneven surface. The support members may be manually adjustable, e.g. using a jack mechanism comprising a ratchet or screw thread, such as a scissor jack or any other manual means of lifting heavy loads known in the art. Alternatively, the adjustable support members may be hydraulically actuated, e.g. using a hydraulic jack mechanism. The container body may comprise one or more wheels for transporting the mobile conveyor system. Additionally, the support members may be configured to be movable in a substantially sideways direction to provide a wider base for supporting the mobile conveyor system on a surface. For example, sideways movement of the support members may be provided by a linear actuator, such as a rack and pinion gear mechanism, or any other suitable linear actuator. The linear actuator may be manually operated, or driven one or more motors of the mobile conveyor system powered by a power generating means, discussed below.

The mobile conveyor system may comprise one or more power generating means for powering the mobile conveyor system and optionally one or more batteries for storing power generated by the power generating means. The power generating means may comprise a plurality of solar panels mounted to the container body. The solar panels may be movable from a stowed position to a deployed position when power is required. The deployed position may be such that the solar panels are positioned substantially perpendicular to the direction of sunlight to maximize energy conversion. To effect movement of the solar panels, each solar panel is mounted to the container body by a hinge mechanism, or an arm or articulated arm hingeably coupled to the solar panel and/or the container body. Movement of the solar panels may be manually actuated, or hydraulically actuated. In an alternative embodiment, the mobile conveyor system may be connectable to one or more power generating means, such a local power generator or power supply.

The mobile conveyor system may also comprise an expandable/retractable conveyor assembly housed within the container body. The conveyor assembly may be movable between a stowed position, in which it is contained within the container body for transportation, and a deployed position in which it extends out of the container body for receiving debris (e.g. directed by the barrier system) and may be for transporting debris out of the waterway to a location on the shore or bank of the waterway. In the deployed position, the conveyor assembly may be configured to transport debris from a first end to the second end. A storage container or bin may be located on the shore or bank of the waterway to receive debris transported by the conveyor assembly. In this way, when deployed, the conveyor assembly may provide a connection bridge between the waterway and the storage container. Where used with the barrier system, the first end may be arranged substantially in-line with the barrier system and be at least partially submerged in the water to receive the filtered-out debris that is directed along the barrier system and lift the debris out of the waterway.

The conveyor assembly may comprise a plurality of conveyors connected or connectable in series by pivotable or rotatable joints. The plurality of conveyors are of the conveyor belt-type and can have corresponding features to those described above with respect to the first and second conveyor of the debris handling system. The conveyors may be driven by one or more drive mechanisms powered by the one or more power generating means. Rotational power may be provided directly or indirectly to rollers in the conveyors by the drive mechanism(s), which, in turn, may drive the belt, e.g. through contact/friction. The or each drive mechanism may comprise a motor that may drive a worm gear arrangement.

The pivotable joints may be configured to allow the conveyor assembly to move between the stowed and deployed positions by rotating one or more of the plurality of conveyors e.g. about the axis of rotation of the joint. This may provide for folding and/or unfolding of one or more of the conveyors. The conveyor assembly may comprise one or a plurality of conveyors. In an embodiment, a first conveyor comprises the first end, a second conveyor comprises the second end, and two intermediate conveyors are connected in series between the first and second conveyors. However, one or more intermediate conveyers may be provided depending on the desired length of the deployed conveyor assembly.

Each pivotable joint may comprise two pairs of gears (such as worm gears). Each pair of gears may be driven by a motor which is attached or attachable to a corresponding conveyor (e.g. a body panel of the conveyor) to allow the conveyors to rotate about a plurality e.g. six axes and/or unfold/fold when moving between the stowed and deployed positions. The motor may drive a worm gear. The worm gear may drive a spur gear which may be attached or attachable to a shaft that may be located at the end of each conveyor e.g. to facilitate the rotation of the conveyors about their different axes.

The conveyor assembly may be mounted or mountable to a movable support structure which may be configured to move between a stowed position and a deployed position. This may provide for raising and lowering the conveyor assembly. The conveyor assembly may be mounted to the support structure at one or a plurality of mounting points that may couple e.g. fixedly the support structure to one of the intermediate conveyors. The support structure may be pivotably mounted to the container body via couplings e.g. rotatable couplings that permit the movement of the support structure. A hydraulic actuator, such as a hydraulic cylinder and pump, may be provided between the beam structure and a coupling to move the support structure between the stowed and deployed positions. The hydraulic actuator may be powered by the one or more power generating means. A space between the support structure and the container body can be used to accommodate the energy conversion and storage units.

In an embodiment, moving the conveyer assembly from the stowed position to the deployed position may involve moving the support structure from the stowed position to the deployed position to raise the conveyor assembly, and may be followed by rotating the first, second and any intermediate conveyors not coupled to the support structure about their rotation axes e.g. using the gears to unfold the conveyor assembly.

Each conveyer may have a first end that may receive debris, and a second end. Each rotatable joint may connect the second end of one conveyor to a first end of another conveyor. Each rotatable joint may be configured to position the second end above the first end when the conveyor assembly is in the deployed position to ensure debris is transported from the first end of the conveyor assembly to the second end of the conveyor assembly. This may be achieved through the use of gears, e.g. pairs of gears, e.g. two pairs of gears for each pivotable joint.

A method of operating or installing the mobile conveyor system may be provided in a further embodiment of separate aspect. The mobile conveyor system may be transported to the desired site location using any suitable vehicle (such as a standard SPV). It may be positioned at the side of the waterway to receive the debris directed by the barrier system. The method may comprise installing the barrier system. Once the mobile conveyor system is positioned, the support members may be deployed to stabilize the mobile conveyor system. This may involve moving the support members sideways and/or adjusting their length. The solar panels may be moved to a deployed position to receive sunlight. This may involve adjustment to the correct angle depending on the direction of the sunlight and the time of the day, e.g. using a series of hydraulic hinges. Once the necessary energy is produced, the conveyor assembly may be moved to its deployed position. Alternatively, the mobile conveyor system may be connected to a power supply or source. In an exemplary embodiment, the whole conveyor assembly may be moved upward to its deployed position, e.g. using a hydraulic cylinder and/or pump. The conveyors may then unfold or extend to their deployed position to form a connection bridge between the waterway and a location on the bank or shore of the waterway, e.g. where a storage container is located. The mobile conveyor system may then start operating, e.g. the conveyors may start or be started.

Features which are described in the context of separate aspects and embodiments of the invention may be used together and/or be interchangeable. Similarly, where features are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, these may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination. Features described in connection with the system may have corresponding features definable with respect to the method(s), and vice versa, and these embodiments are specifically envisaged.

In order that the invention can be well understood, embodiments will now be discussed by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:.

It should be noted that the figures are diagrammatic and may not be drawn to scale. Relative dimensions and proportions of parts of these figures may have been shown exaggerated or reduced in size, for the sake of clarity and convenience in the drawings. The same reference signs are generally used to refer to corresponding or similar features in modified and/or different embodiments.

<FIG> show a system <NUM> for removing debris from a waterway <NUM> according to an embodiment of the invention. The system <NUM> is configured to be installed in or at a waterway <NUM> (e.g. a river) to filter and extract physical pollution or debris from the water flow <NUM> and remove it from the waterway <NUM>. In this way, the system <NUM> can prevent or reduce the amount of physical pollution or debris reaching marine environments from the waterway <NUM>. The physical pollution or debris may include plastic materials/items, and/or plastics particles (macroplastics and microplastics), or other types of man-made physical pollution that may enter the waterway <NUM> upstream of the system <NUM> and be carried in/on the water flowing through the waterway <NUM>. The physical pollution or debris may be contained in (i.e. entrained) and/or floating on a surface of the water.

The system <NUM> comprises a barrier system <NUM> configured to filter-out the debris and/or physical pollution contained in and/or floating on a surface of the incoming water flow <NUM> and direct and/or deflect the filtered-out debris towards a side of the waterway <NUM>. The system <NUM> further comprises a debris handling system <NUM> at or near either side of the waterway <NUM> configured to receive the debris directed by the barrier system <NUM> and remove the debris from the waterway <NUM>. In other words, the barrier system <NUM> filters-out debris and/or directs/deflects the filtered-out debris towards the debris handle handling systems <NUM> at or near the side of the waterway <NUM>.

The barrier system <NUM> extends away from each debris handling system <NUM> at an acute angle □ with respect to the direction D of water flow <NUM> in the waterway <NUM>. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the barrier system <NUM> extends across substantially the entire width of the waterway <NUM> in a V-shaped configuration. Each side of the V makes an acute angle □ with respect to the direction D of the water flow <NUM> in the waterway <NUM>, such that the V points upstream (see <FIG>). Alternatively, the barrier system <NUM> may be substantially linear and extend away from a single debris handling system <NUM> located at one side of the waterway <NUM> (not shown).

The V-shaped barrier system <NUM> comprises a plurality of filter elements <NUM> to filter-out the debris. For example, at least one filter element <NUM> is provided for each side of the V. Each filter element <NUM> extends across at least a portion of the width of the waterway <NUM>. Each filter element <NUM> comprises a plurality of perforations and/or openings to allow water to flow through the filter element <NUM> but inhibit debris contained in the water flow <NUM> from passing through the filter element <NUM>. The plurality of filter elements <NUM> form one or more barrier portion(s).

The barrier system <NUM> further comprises a plurality of ground posts <NUM> to support the filter elements <NUM> and/or the gate <NUM>. The ground posts <NUM> are configured to be fixed or fixable in/on/to the bed/floor of the waterway <NUM>.

The filter element(s) <NUM> are attachable to the ground posts <NUM> and/or the debris handling system <NUM>. For example, the filter element(s) <NUM> may be attachable via a plurality of removeable joints such as clips, loops or fastenings that fix the filter element(s) <NUM> in position. In this way, the filter elements <NUM>/barrier portion(s) are interchangeable modular attachments that can be installed (e.g. by attaching to the ground posts <NUM> and/or the debris handling system <NUM>), replaced/redeployed (e.g. when damaged or destroyed) and/or exchanged with different barrier designs (e.g. partial depth, full depth, different pore size). The modular barrier portion(s) can therefore be tailored to the waterway/river requirements. For example, if the pollution is only carried within a small proportion of the waterway depth, then the barrier/filter element(s) <NUM> can be tailored to this.

Most debris present in waterways <NUM> either floats on the surface of the water or is suspended in the top meter or so of its depth. As such, the filter element(s) <NUM> and the gate <NUM> are at least partially submerged in the water and have a height such that they extend beneath the surface of the water to at least partially the depth of the waterway <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The filter element(s) <NUM> are therefore required to extend to minimum depth in order to filter the majority of debris flowing in the water. The minimum depth may be determined by the waterway <NUM> conditions. The filter element(s) <NUM> therefore present a substantial cross-section to the portion of water flow <NUM> containing the majority of debris. A partial depth filter element <NUM> and gate <NUM> allows passage of fish/marine animals beneath the filter element(s) <NUM>. In other embodiments, the filter element(s) <NUM> and/or the gate <NUM> may extend substantially the full depth of the waterway (not shown). In an embodiment, the height of the filter element(s) <NUM> is in the range of substantially <NUM> to <NUM>.

To accommodate changes in the water level of the waterway <NUM> (e.g. during tidal cycles), the filter element(s) <NUM> can be "oversized" in the height dimension, such that the filter element(s) <NUM> extend to a height that is greater than the maximum water level of the waterway <NUM>. Alternatively, the filter element(s) <NUM> can be slidably attachable to the ground posts <NUM> and further comprise flotation devices (e.g. a plurality of floats attached at or near the top of the filter element(s) <NUM>). For example, the removable joints (e.g. clips, loops or fastenings) may be configured to slide up and down the ground posts <NUM>, such that the filter element(s) <NUM> can move/drift up and down with the changes in water level and be retained at the desired level/depth in the waterway <NUM>.

The barrier system <NUM> may further comprise a gate <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The gate <NUM> may also be supported by the ground posts <NUM>. The gate <NUM> is configured to open and close to permit and/or control shipping access through the barrier system <NUM> from upstream and downstream of the system <NUM>. The gate <NUM> may be or comprise a leaf gate comprising one or two planar leaves that hinge or slide open, or any other movable water gate or barrier known in the art. The gate <NUM> may be constructed of wood, plastic and/or metal (e.g. steel) materials. It should be rigid, tough/strong and waterproof. In the embodiment shown, the gate <NUM> is substantially impermeable (i.e. with no perforations/opening), such that water or debris cannot flow through the gate <NUM> (when closed). Alternatively, the gate <NUM> may also comprise a plurality of perforations/openings to allow water to flow through the gate <NUM> but inhibit debris from flowing through the gate <NUM> (when closed). The gate <NUM> may be manually operated or electrically operated e.g. through a manually or electrically driven drive chain or similar mechanism. Operation of the gate may be controlled remotely (e.g. from the shore) or proximate to the gate. Power for electrical operation can be extracted from the turbine(s) (see below).

The filter element(s) <NUM> and/or the gate <NUM> may be or comprise one or more of: a mesh, a net, a grid, a grill, a perforated curtain, and a perforated screen. The pore size of the filter element(s) may in the range of <NUM> micron to <NUM>, depending on the type and size of debris expected/intended to be removed from the waterway <NUM>.

By allowing water to flow substantially uninhibited through the barrier portion(s) the force acting on the barrier system <NUM> is substantially reduced, enabling the system <NUM> to withstand a wider range of flow conditions e.g. compared to an impermeable barrier.

<FIG> illustrates the general direction of debris material flow M through the system <NUM>. Upstream of the system <NUM>, the debris flows along the waterway <NUM> in a direction M1 that is generally the same (longitudinal) as the direction D of the water flow <NUM>. Debris is filtered-out at the barrier portion(s) and the action of the (longitudinal) water flow <NUM>/debris flow M1 in the waterway <NUM> against the angled barrier portion(s) provides a transverse force on the debris and/or a transverse debris flow component directed towards a side of the waterway <NUM>. This directs and/or moves the filtered-out debris along the barrier portion(s) towards the side of the waterway <NUM>, e.g. in the direction M2 shown in <FIG>. In this way, the water flow <NUM> in the waterway <NUM> does the work to direct the debris towards the debris handling systems <NUM>, avoiding the need for any mechanical intervention.

In the embodiment shown, the angle □ is approximately <NUM> degrees, but in other embodiments (not shown) the angle D may be in the range of substantially <NUM>-<NUM> degrees. The optimal angle may depend on one or more water flow conditions (e.g. flow rate, velocity) and/or the amount of debris contained in/on the water flow <NUM> to be removed (e.g. this may be estimated or determined prior to installation).

The debris handling system <NUM> comprises a first conveyor <NUM> or ramp. The first conveyor <NUM> is arranged and/or configured to receive the filtered-out debris directed by the barrier system <NUM> and transport the debris out of the waterway <NUM> to a first location. The debris handling system <NUM> further comprises a second conveyor <NUM> or ramp. The second conveyor <NUM> is arranged and configured to receive the debris from the first conveyor <NUM> at the first location and transport said debris to a second location or collection point where it can be collected (e.g. on the shore or bank of the waterway <NUM>). In the embodiment shown, the second conveyor <NUM> deposits the debris in one or more storage containers <NUM> located on the shore or bank of the waterway <NUM>. The storage container <NUM> can be taken away, e.g. to recycle the debris collected. This may be particularly useful for debris comprising plastic materials.

Referring again to <FIG>, the water flows through the barrier portion(s) and any debris is filtered-out and directed/deflected (by the action of the water flow and the angled barrier) to flow along the barrier portion(s) in direction M2 towards the debris handling systems <NUM>. At the debris handling systems <NUM>, debris is transported out of the water by the first conveyor <NUM> (direction M3) to the second conveyor <NUM> (at the first location), and then transported along the second conveyor <NUM> (direction M4) to the second location, optionally to the storage container <NUM> on the shore or bank of the waterway <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> show an embodiment of the debris handling system <NUM> in more detail. The debris handling system <NUM> comprises a floatable platform <NUM> having a plurality of floats 22a, such as pontoon floats, arranged to provide buoyancy to the platform <NUM>. The floatable platform <NUM> is configured to be moored at or near a side of the waterway <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. For example, the floatable platform <NUM> can be moored using one or more of the ground posts <NUM> and/or one or more moorings (not shown) located on the shore or bank of the waterway <NUM> as is known in the art.

The first conveyor <NUM> is mounted on or to the platform <NUM> and arranged at an incline to lift debris out of the waterway <NUM>. A first end 24a of the first conveyor <NUM> is arranged substantially in-line with the barrier system <NUM> and is at least partially submerged in the water to receive the filtered-out debris that is directed along the barrier system <NUM> and lift the debris out of the waterway <NUM> (see <FIG> and <FIG>). A second end 24b of the first conveyor <NUM> is elevated above the first end 24a.

A first end 26a of the second conveyor <NUM> is arranged adjacent to and/or beneath the second end 24b of the first conveyor <NUM> to receive the debris from the second end 24b, as shown. A second end 26b of the second conveyor <NUM> can be located on the shore or bank of the waterway <NUM>.

In the embodiment shown, the incline angle of the first conveyor <NUM> is approximately <NUM> degrees to vertical, but in other embodiments (not shown) the angle may be in the range of substantially <NUM>-<NUM> degrees. The precise angle is not critical, but a relatively steep angle is preferred to ensure the second end 24b or first location is sufficiently elevated over a practical distance on the platform <NUM> to provide a positive gradient for the second conveyor <NUM> or ramp, discussed in more detail below.

The first conveyor <NUM> is of the conveyor belt-type. The first conveyor <NUM> is driven by one or more turbines <NUM> that are actuated by the water flow in the waterway <NUM>. The turbine(s) <NUM> are arranged downstream of the filter element(s) <NUM> to protect the turbine(s) <NUM> and/or prevent debris from entering the turbine(s) <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, the turbine(s) may be arranged at a lower position, below the depth of the filter element(s) <NUM>, such that the filter elements <NUM> do not interfere with the water flow through the turbine(s) (not shown). In that case, as debris is typically confined to a region near the surface of the water, the debris should not enter the turbine(s) <NUM>.

In the embodiment shown, the turbines <NUM> are helical turbines, but it will be appreciated that other water driven turbines may be used instead. For example, the turbine(s) may be or comprise axial turbines (e.g. an axial impeller/propeller) or in-line turbines (e.g. a Pelton turbine or water wheel). The turbines <NUM> are connected to a primary driveshaft 28p that rotates with the turbines <NUM>. Where there is more than one turbine <NUM>, each turbine may be coupled to the same primary driveshaft (e.g. in series) 28p, or to separate driveshafts 28p. Rotation of the turbines <NUM> and driveshaft(s) 28p generates a torque that is used to drive the first conveyor <NUM>. Multiple turbines <NUM> can provide a greater mechanical torque.

The first conveyor <NUM> can be coupled directly or indirectly to the primary driveshaft 28p such that rotation of the turbines(s) <NUM> drives the first conveyor <NUM>. Rotational power may be provided directly to rollers in the first conveyor <NUM> (not shown), which, in turn, drives the belt, e.g. through contact/friction. This friction/contact can be obtained through a variety of methods, such as the roller having teeth, a high friction belt/roller combination, or a drive chain. In the embodiment shown, the first conveyor <NUM> is coupled indirectly to the primary driveshaft(s) 28d via a mechanical power transmission system <NUM>. The mechanical power transmission system <NUM> is configured to transmit the torque generated by the turbines <NUM> to a secondary driveshaft <NUM> coupled to the first conveyor <NUM> where it is applied. The mechanical power transmission system <NUM> comprises a first and second <NUM> degree gearbox 280a, 280b (e.g. a horizontal to vertical gearbox 280a and a vertical to horizontal gear box 280b). The first gearbox 280a couples the primary driveshaft 28p to an intermediate shaft 280c, and the second gearbox 280b couples the intermediate shaft 280c to the secondary driveshaft <NUM>.

The first and/or second gearboxes 280a, 280b may comprise a unitary transmission (gear) ratio, e.g. <NUM>:<NUM>. Alternatively, the first and/or second gearboxes 280a, 280b may be configured to control the rate of movement of the first conveyor <NUM> For example, the first and/or second gearboxes 280a, 280b may comprise a non-unitary gear ratio or a variable/adjustable ratio. The first and/or second gearboxes 280a, 280b may be configured to increase or decrease the rate of rotation of the secondary driveshaft <NUM> with respect to the rate of rotation of the primary driveshaft <NUM>. In this way, the rate of movement (e.g. rate of rotation) of the first conveyor <NUM> may be controlled to be at a speed proportional to the speed of the one or more turbines <NUM>, which in turn rotates proportionally to the water flow velocity. For example, the transmission ratio the first and/or second gearboxes 280a, 280b may be <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>. <NUM>:<NUM>. Gear/transmission ratios may be determined by water and debris flow conditions in the waterway <NUM>. For example, the water flow speed and debris concentration may determine the required clearing rate (i.e. debris removal rate) for the debris handling system <NUM> and how much the turbine rotation needs to be stepped down.

Where the gearboxes 280a, 280b have a unitary transmission ration, the mechanical power transmission system <NUM> may further comprise a third gearbox (not shown) coupled to the secondary driveshaft <NUM> configured to control the rate of movement of the first conveyor <NUM>, as described above.

The first conveyor <NUM> comprises a plurality of lifting members such as transverse ribs or baffles 24r configured to help lift and/or scoop debris out of the waterway <NUM>. Each transverse baffle 24r may extend across substantially the width of the first conveyor <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Alternatively, each transverse baffle 24r may comprise a series of shorter baffles (not shown) that together span substantially the width of the first conveyor <NUM>. The transverse baffles 24r may also be configured to permit fluid to drain through the baffles 24r, to decrease the mechanical load on the first conveyor <NUM> at relative steep vertical angles. In one embodiment, the transverse baffles 24r comprise one or more filter elements having one or more perforations to allow water to drain through it (but inhibit debris from passing through it). The filter element may be or comprise one or more of: a mesh, net and grid. The pore size of the filter element(s) may in the range of <NUM> micron to <NUM>, depending on the type of debris expected to be removed from the waterway <NUM>.

The first conveyor <NUM> further comprises a shield <NUM> disposed at or near the first end 24a configured to prevent debris material from passing behind and escaping the debris handling system <NUM>. The shield <NUM> may be coupled to the barrier system <NUM> or filter element <NUM>, e.g. in-line therewith, as shown in <FIG>.

In an embodiment, the second conveyor <NUM> is also of the conveyor belt-type and is driven by the one or more turbines <NUM> in a similar way to the first conveyor <NUM> (i.e. via a drive shaft and mechanical power transmission system). Alternatively, the second conveyor <NUM> may be a static conveyor. For example, the second conveyor <NUM> may be or comprise a gravity slide making use of the positive angle/gradient between first and second locations to transport debris. For this purpose, it is important that the angle/gradient of the second conveyor <NUM> remains positive with respect to the ground plane during operation of the system <NUM>, e.g. during normal tidal cycles. As such, the second end 24b of the first conveyor <NUM> should be sufficiently elevated with respect to the second location on the shore or bank of the waterway <NUM>.

In use, debris directed/guided by the barrier system <NUM> (and, where present, the shield <NUM>) is deposited on the first end 24a of the first conveyor <NUM> and passed from the platform <NUM> to the shore or bank of the waterway <NUM> where it can be collected, e.g. in storage containers <NUM> for removal and/or recycling. Debris is lifted out of the water at the first end 24a of the first conveyor <NUM> and transported to the second end 24b of the first conveyor <NUM> (referred to as the first location). The first end 26a of the second conveyor <NUM> receives the debris from the first conveyor <NUM> and transports it to the second end 26b (referred to as the second location) located on shore or bank of the waterway <NUM>.

To accommodate changes in the position/height of the platform <NUM> during normal tidal cycles, the second conveyor <NUM> is configured to move in one or more directions relative to the platform <NUM>.

<FIG> show an embodiment of the second conveyor <NUM> in more detail. The second conveyor <NUM> is mounted on or to the platform <NUM> via a first rotatable coupling 261a and first support leg 261b, and is mountable on or to the shore or bank of the waterway <NUM> via a second rotatable coupling 262a and second support leg 262b. The first rotatable coupling 261a is coupled to the second conveyor <NUM> at a mounting location at or near a first end 26a of the second conveyor <NUM>, and the second rotatable coupling 262a is coupled to the second conveyor <NUM> at a mounting location at or near a second end 26b of the second conveyor <NUM>. Each of the first and second rotatable couplings 261a, 262a are configured to permit rotation of the second conveyor <NUM> about two axes, such as the X and Z axes as shown in <FIG>. In this example, the two axes are the vertical (Z) and horizontal (X) axes. The first rotatable coupling 260a is pivotably coupled to the first end 26a of the second conveyor <NUM> and the second rotatable coupling 261a is pivotably coupled to the first end 26a of the second conveyor 26to permit rotation about axis X. This degree of freedom accommodates changes in the height of the platform <NUM> relative to the shore or bank of the waterway <NUM>. In addition, the first rotatable coupling 260a can be pivotably coupled to the first support leg 261b and/or the second rotatable coupling 260a can be pivotably coupled to the second support leg 261b to permit rotation or swivel about axis Y. The first and second rotatable couplings 261a, 262a may be or comprise rotatable hinges. This degree of freedom accommodates changes in the (lateral X, Y) position of the platform <NUM> along the shore or bank of the waterway <NUM>.

The second end 26b may further be slideably coupled to the second rotatable coupling 262a to permit both rotation about the axis X and translation in the Y direction, as shown in <FIG>. For example, the second rotatable coupling 262a may be or comprise a pin slot hinge. Although the second rotatable coupling 262a is shown in <FIG> to provide a linear translation in direction Y (i.e. via a linear slot), in other examples a non-linear translation may be provided, e.g. via a curved slot.

Alternatively or additionally, the first end 26b may further be slideably coupled to the first rotatable coupling 262a in a similar way to permit both rotation about the axis X and translation in the Y direction (not shown). For example, either or both of the first and second rotatable couplings 261a, 262a may be or comprise a pin slot hinge.

In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the second conveyor <NUM> has three degrees of freedom of movement: two rotational axes (X, and Z) and one translation axis (Y). The second conveyor <NUM> can therefore accommodate changes in the height and position of the platform <NUM> on waterway <NUM> with respect to the shore or bank of the waterway <NUM>, e.g. over a tidal cycle. This is illustrated in <FIG> that show the second conveyor <NUM> in two different positions corresponding to the full range of tidal movement.

In this way, the system <NUM> can accommodate vertical and/or horizontal movement of the platform <NUM> relative to the bank or shore (i.e. relative to the second location) of the waterway <NUM> during normal tidal cycles without affecting operation of the system <NUM>. In particular, this reduces the mechanical stresses on the debris handling system <NUM> during such movements.

As described earlier, the angle/gradient of the second conveyor <NUM> preferably remains positive over the full tidal cycle which simplifies transportation of debris to the shore or bank of the waterway <NUM>. In particular, the positive angle/gradient allows the second conveyor <NUM> to make use of gravity by transporting debris downhill. Where the second conveyor <NUM> is a dynamic conveyor-belt driven by the turbines <NUM>, the positive angle/gradient reduces the load and torque required to drive the second conveyor <NUM>. Where the second conveyor <NUM> is a static gravity slide, the number of parts and complexity of the debris handling system <NUM> is significantly reduced.

Although the embodiment of the system <NUM> shown in <FIG> comprises a pair of debris handling systems <NUM> and a V-shaped barrier <NUM>, in other embodiments (not shown) the system <NUM> may comprise a single debris handling system <NUM> and the barrier system <NUM> may extend linearly from the debris handling system <NUM> such that filtered-out debris is directed towards the material handling system <NUM> at one side of the waterway <NUM> or elsewhere.

In addition, the barrier system <NUM> may comprise additional or fewer elements than is shown in <FIG>. For example, in an embodiment the barrier system <NUM> does not comprise a gate <NUM>. Further, although four ground posts <NUM> are shown in <FIG>, where the system <NUM> is configured to direct debris to one side of the waterway <NUM>, only one or two ground posts <NUM> may be required. The barrier system <NUM> may further comprise additional attachable filter elements <NUM>/barrier portions connected in series or parallel and/or impermeable barrier portions (not shown). In this way, system <NUM> is fully modular allowing easy installation, repair and maintenance.

The turbines <NUM> shown in <FIG> are helical turbines of the Gorlov type. Although in the illustrated embodiment, the turbines <NUM> are shown in a horizontal arrangement for rotation about a substantially horizontal axis, they may alternatively be implemented in a vertical arrangement for rotation about a substantially vertical axis (now shown).

<FIG> show an alternative embodiment of a helical turbine <NUM>' for the system <NUM> (the axis of rotation is indicated by the dashed line R). The turbine <NUM> is of the Savonius type, comprising a pair of helical blades or aerofoils 28b. However, unlike conventional Savonius turbines, the blades 28b are configured with a non-uniform blade profile or cross-section 28c in the radial direction r (or the plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation R), as shown more clearly in <FIG>. The non-uniform blade profile 28c improves the torque and efficiency characteristics of the turbine <NUM>. In the example shown, the thickness t of the blade 28a decreases in the radial direction r such that the blade 28a is thinner at its radially outer end 28b_o than at its radially inner end 28b_i (see <FIG>). However, in another example the thickness t of the blade 28a increases in the radial direction r (not shown). The rate of change in blade thickness t between the radially inner end 28b_i and the radially outer end 28b_o, or with respect to the arc length A of the blade 28b (see <FIG>), can be fixed/constant, linear or non-linear. <FIG> shows blades 28b with differing curvature.

<FIG> shows a flow channel <NUM> for directing a flow of water <NUM> in the waterway <NUM> to one or more turbines <NUM>, <NUM>'. The flow channel <NUM> is configured to funnel a water flow <NUM> towards to the turbine <NUM>, <NUM>' so as to accelerate the flow rate or increase the flow velocity at or through the turbine <NUM>, <NUM>' and increase its power output. The flow channel <NUM> can be mounted, secured or anchored to the shore or bank of the waterway <NUM>, the side or bottom of the waterway <NUM>, or to the floatable platform <NUM>. The flow channel <NUM> may be part of the debris handling system <NUM> or a separate element. The flow channel <NUM> comprises a first portion <NUM> for funneling a flow of water D into a second portion <NUM> of reduced cross-sectional area in which one or more of the turbines <NUM> are located. The flow channel <NUM> or second portion <NUM> of the flow channel <NUM> may be attachable to the floatable platform <NUM> to maintain the position of the second portion <NUM> relative to the turbine <NUM>. The first portion <NUM> is a substantially funnel-shaped fluid conduit, having an inlet 42i for receiving a flow of water <NUM> with a first cross-sectional area and/or a first flow velocity and an outlet 42o for outputting a flow of water <NUM> with a second cross-section area and/or a second flow velocity. The second cross-sectional area is smaller than that the first cross-sectional area such that the second flow velocity is greater than the first flow velocity by virtue of the Venturi effect. The second portion <NUM> is fluidly connected to the outlet 42o of the first portion <NUM> for receiving the flow <NUM> with the second cross-sectional areas and/or second flow velocity. The or each turbine <NUM>, <NUM>' can be arranged horizontally or vertically within the second portion <NUM> of the flow channel <NUM> (or there may be combination of horizontal and vertically arranged turbines <NUM>, <NUM>'). The flow channel <NUM> may comprise a deflector 40D for directing flow of water away from the returning blade 28b of the turbine <NUM> and into the advancing blade <NUM>, as shown. The flow channel <NUM> is shown in cross-section along the direction D of the incoming water flow <NUM> and may be arranged horizontally or vertically with respect to the waterway <NUM>. In the example shown, first portion <NUM> comprises one or more substantially straight sidewalls when viewed in cross-section, however, it will be appreciated that the shape of the first portion <NUM> is not important provided the function of increasing the flow velocity at the turbine <NUM> is achieved, e.g. it may instead comprise one or more curved sidewalls when viewed in cross-section (or a combination of straight or curved walls). In addition, the flow channel <NUM> may comprise one or more flotation devices (e.g. a plurality of floats attached at or near the top of the flow channel <NUM> (not shown) to maintain the flow channel <NUM> at a predefined depth.

<FIG> shows an anchor member <NUM> according to an embodiment. The anchor member <NUM> can be used to moor or secure the floatable platform <NUM> at or near a side of the waterway <NUM>. Alternatively or additionally, the anchor member <NUM> may be used as a ground post for the barrier system <NUM>, or to mount, secure or anchor the flow channel <NUM> to the shore or bank or bottom of the waterway <NUM>. The anchor member <NUM> functions as temporary or semi-permanent foundation or anchor pile, and is configured to be driven into a foundation layer such as the shore, bank, side or bottom of the waterway <NUM> to resist up-lift forces and transfer loads to the foundation layer. The anchor member <NUM> comprises a column member <NUM> and a screw member <NUM> attached to a lower end of the column member for driving into and securing the anchor member <NUM> to a foundation layer. A flange portion or member 52f may also be provided at the lower end of the column portion <NUM> above the screw member <NUM> for steadying the anchor member <NUM> against lateral loads and/or preventing over-turning of the screw member <NUM>. The flange portion 52f may be integral with the column member <NUM> as shown, or may be a separate member attachable or attached to the column portion <NUM>. A handle portion <NUM> is attachable or fixedly attached to an upper end of column portion <NUM> for manually rotating and driving the anchor member <NUM> into a foundation layer. The column portion <NUM> may comprise an aperture 52a for slidably receiving the handle portion <NUM>. The handle portion <NUM> may be a substantially bar or rod-shaped member as shown. Alternatively, handle member <NUM> may be substantially curved (not shown). The column portion <NUM> may be substantially hollow with a drainage aperture 52b at or near its lower end (see <FIG>), to allow water to drain out when removing the anchor member <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a mobile conveyor system <NUM> or debris handling system for removing debris from a waterway <NUM> according to an embodiment of the invention. The system <NUM> can be used in conjunction with the system <NUM> described above. In particular, the system <NUM> can be used in the place of the debris handling system <NUM> to perform the function of the first and second conveyors <NUM>, <NUM>. The system <NUM> may be used and arranged to receive the debris directed by the barrier system <NUM> and remove the debris from the waterway <NUM>. In this way, the system <NUM> may provide an alternative debris handling system.

The system <NUM> provides a cost-effective mobile solution to debris removal which can quickly, easily and inexpensively change its location at any time. The system <NUM> is highly maneuverable and can be positioned on uneven surfaces and/or in places where long term arrangements are not feasible. The barrier system <NUM> may assembled using the above described semi-permanent anchor member <NUM> to permit rapid installation.

The system <NUM> comprises a container body <NUM> that can be mounted/loaded onto and transported using a vehicle, such as an airplane, lorry, truck or standard special purpose vehicle (SPV). In the illustrated embodiment, the container body <NUM> is a standard <NUM>-meter container chassis, such as a shipping container. The container body <NUM> comprises a plurality of support members or legs <NUM>, such as outrigger stabilizing legs, for supporting and stabilizing the system <NUM> on a surface S, as shown in <FIG>. Each support member <NUM> may be individually adjustable in length to support and stabilize the system <NUM> on an uneven surface S. The support members <NUM> may be manually adjustable, e.g. using a jack mechanism comprising a ratchet or screw thread, such as a scissor jack or any other manual means of lifting heavy loads known in the art. Alternatively, the adjustable support members <NUM> may be hydraulically actuated, e.g. using a hydraulic jack mechanism. The container body <NUM> may comprise one or more wheels W for transporting the system <NUM>, as shown. Additionally, the support members <NUM> may be configured to be movable in a substantially sideways direction to provide a wider base for supporting the system <NUM> on a surface S. For example, sideways movement of the support members <NUM> may be a linear actuator, such as a rack and pinion gear mechanism (not shown), or any other suitable linear actuator. The linear actuator may be manually operated, or driven one or more motors of the system <NUM> powered by the power generating means <NUM> described below.

The system <NUM> comprises one or more power generating means <NUM> for powering the system <NUM> and optionally one or more batteries for storing power generated by the power generating means (not shown). In the illustrated embodiment, the power generating means <NUM> comprises a plurality of solar panels <NUM> mounted to the container body <NUM>. The solar panels <NUM> may be movable from a stowed position (e.g. as shown in <FIG>) to a deployed position when power is required (e.g. as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>). The deployed position may be such that the solar panels are positioned substantially perpendicular to the direction of sunlight to maximize energy conversion. To effect movement of the solar panels <NUM>, each solar panel <NUM> is mounted to the container body <NUM> by a hinge mechanism, or an arm or articulated arm hingeably coupled to the solar panel <NUM> and/or the container body <NUM> (not shown). Movement of the solar panels <NUM> may be manually actuated, or hydraulically actuated. In an alternative embodiment, the system <NUM> may be connectable to one or more power generating means, such a local power generator or power supply.

The system <NUM> also comprises an expandable/retractable conveyor assembly <NUM> housed within the container body <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The conveyor assembly <NUM> is movable between a stowed position, in which it is contained within the container body <NUM> for transportation as shown in <FIG>, and a deployed position in which it extends out of the container body <NUM> for receiving debris (e.g. directed by the barrier system <NUM>) and transporting debris out of the waterway <NUM> to a location on the shore or bank of the waterway <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In the deployed position, the conveyor assembly <NUM> is configured to transport debris from a first end 240a to the second end 240b. A storage container or bin <NUM> may be located on the shore or bank of the waterway <NUM> to receive debris transported by the conveyor assembly <NUM>, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. In this way, when deployed, the conveyor assembly <NUM> provides a connection bridge between the waterway <NUM> and the storage container <NUM>. Where used with the barrier system <NUM>, the first end 240a may be arranged substantially in-line with the barrier system <NUM> and be at least partially submerged in the water to receive the filtered-out debris that is directed along the barrier system <NUM> and lift the debris out of the waterway <NUM>.

The conveyor assembly <NUM> comprises a plurality of conveyors <NUM>-<NUM> connected in series by pivotable or rotatable joints 240j, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. The plurality of conveyors <NUM>-<NUM> are of the conveyor belt-type and can have corresponding features to those described above with respect to the first and second conveyor <NUM>, <NUM> of the debris handling system <NUM>. The conveyors <NUM>-<NUM> may be driven by one or more drive mechanisms (see <FIG>) powered by the one or more power generating means <NUM>. Rotational power may be provided directly or indirectly to rollers in the conveyors <NUM>-<NUM> (not shown) by the drive mechanism(s), which, in turn, drives the belt, e.g. through contact/friction. In one embodiment, the or each drive mechanism comprises a motor <NUM> that drives a worm gear arrangement <NUM> as shown in <FIG>.

The pivotable joints 240j are configured to allow the conveyor assembly <NUM> to move between the stowed and deployed positions by rotating one or more of the plurality of conveyors <NUM>-<NUM> about the axis of rotation of the joint 240j (i.e. to fold and unfold one or more of the conveyors <NUM>-<NUM>). In an embodiment, the conveyor assembly <NUM> comprises four conveyors <NUM>-<NUM>, as shown in <FIG>: a first conveyor <NUM> comprising the first end 240a, a second conveyor <NUM> comprising the second end 240b, and two intermediate conveyors <NUM> connected in series between the first and second conveyors <NUM>, <NUM>. However, in general one or more intermediate conveyers <NUM> may be provided depending on the desired length of the deployed conveyor assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> shows the system <NUM> without the sides of the container body <NUM> to show the conveyor assembly <NUM> in more detail. In this example, each pivotable joint 240j comprises two pairs of gears <NUM> (such as worm gears as shown in <FIG>). Each pair of gears <NUM> is driven by a motor which is attached to a corresponding conveyor's (e.g. a body panel of the conveyor) to allow the conveyors <NUM>-<NUM> to rotate about six axes and unfold/fold when moving between the stowed and deployed positions, as indicated by axes <NUM>-<NUM> in <FIG>. In an embodiment, the motor <NUM> drives a worm gear <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In this case, the worm gear <NUM> drives a spur gear which is attached to a shaft that is located at the end of each conveyor <NUM>-<NUM> to facilitate the rotation of the conveyors <NUM>-<NUM> about their different axes (see axis <NUM>-<NUM> in <FIG>).

The conveyor assembly <NUM> is mounted to a movable support structure <NUM> configured to move between a stowed position, as shown in <FIG>, and a deployed position as shown in <FIG>. This raises and lowers the conveyor assembly <NUM>. The conveyor assembly <NUM> may be mounted to the support structure <NUM> at a plurality of mounting points 250a that fixedly couple the support structure <NUM> to one of the intermediate conveyors <NUM>. The support structure <NUM> is pivotably mounted to the container body <NUM> via rotatable couplings <NUM> that permit the movement of the support structure <NUM>. A hydraulic actuator <NUM>, such as a hydraulic cylinder and pump, is provided between the beam structure <NUM> and a rotatable coupling <NUM> to move the support structure <NUM> between the stowed and deployed positions. The hydraulic actuator <NUM> may be powered by the one or more power generating means <NUM>. A space between the support structure <NUM> and the container body <NUM> can be used to accommodate the energy conversion and storage units <NUM>.

In an embodiment, moving the conveyer assembly <NUM> from the stowed position to the deployed position involves moving the support structure <NUM> from the stowed position to the deployed position to raise the conveyor assembly <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, followed by rotating the first <NUM>, second <NUM> and any intermediate conveyors <NUM> not coupled to the support structure <NUM> about their rotation axes <NUM>-<NUM> using the gears <NUM> to unfold the conveyor assembly <NUM> as shown in <FIG>.

Each conveyer <NUM>-<NUM> has a first end 241a, 242a, 243a that receives debris, and a second end 241b, 242b, 243b. Each rotatable joint 240j connects the second end 241b, 243b of one conveyor <NUM>, <NUM> to a first end <NUM>, <NUM> of another conveyor <NUM>, <NUM>. Each rotatable joint 240j may be configured to position the second end 241b, 243b above the first end <NUM>, <NUM> when the conveyor assembly <NUM> is in the deployed position to ensure debris is transported from the first end 240a of the conveyor assembly <NUM> to the second end 240b of the conveyor assembly <NUM>. This can be achieved through the use of two pairs of gears <NUM> for each pivotable joint 240j, as shown.

<FIG> shows a method <NUM> of operating or installing the system <NUM>. The working procedure of the system <NUM> may comprise four simple steps. Initially, at step S1, the system <NUM> is transported to the desired site location using any suitable vehicle (such as a standard SPV) and positioned at the side of the waterway <NUM> to receive the debris directed by the barrier system <NUM>. Step S1 may comprise installing the barrier system <NUM>. Once the system <NUM> is positioned, in step S2 the support members <NUM> are deployed to stabilize the system <NUM>. This may involve moving the support members <NUM> sideways and/or adjusting their length. Then, in step S3, the solar panels <NUM> can be moved to a deployed position to receive sunlight. This may involve adjustment to the right angle depending on the direction of the sunlight and the time of the day, e.g. using a series of hydraulic hinges. Once the necessary energy is produced, in step S4, the conveyor assembly is moved to its deployed position. Alternatively, step S3 may comprise connecting the system <NUM> to a power supply or source. In an example, in step S4, first the whole conveyor assembly <NUM> moves upward to its deployed position, e.g. using a hydraulic cylinder <NUM> and the use of relevant hydraulic pump, then, the conveyors <NUM>-<NUM> unfold or extend to their deployed position to form a connection bridge between the waterway <NUM> and a location on the bank or shore of the waterway <NUM>, e.g. where a storage container <NUM> is located. At this stage, the system <NUM> is able to start operating, e.g. the conveyors <NUM>-<NUM> may start or be started.

From reading the present disclosure, other variations and modifications will be apparent to the skilled person. Such variations and modifications may involve equivalent and other features which are already known in the art, and which may be used instead of, or in addition to, features already described herein.

Although the appended claims are directed to particular combinations of features, it should be understood that the scope of the disclosure of the present invention also includes any novel feature or any novel combination of features disclosed herein either explicitly or implicitly or any generalisation thereof, whether or not it relates to the same invention as presently claimed in any claim and whether or not it mitigates any or all of the same technical problems as does the present invention.

Features which are described in the context of separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination.

Claim 1:
A system (<NUM>) for removing debris from a waterway (<NUM>), comprising:
a barrier system (<NUM>) configured to filter-out and direct and/or deflect debris contained in and/or floating on a surface of an incoming fluid flow through the waterway towards a side of the waterway; and
a debris handling system (<NUM>) configured to receive the debris directed by the barrier system and remove the debris from the waterway, wherein the debris handling system comprises:
a floatable platform (<NUM>) configured to be moored at a side of the waterway; and
a first conveyor (<NUM>) configured to receive debris directed by the barrier system and transport debris out of the waterway to a first location, wherein the first conveyor is mounted on or to the platform; characterized in that the debris handling system furthermore comprises:
a second conveyor (<NUM>) configured to receive debris from the first conveyor at the first location and transport said debris to a second location on a bank or shore of the waterway, wherein the second conveyor is rotatably mounted on or to the platform at a first mounting portion and is rotatably mountable on or to said bank or shore of the waterway at a second mounting portion.