An automated skimmer system includes a skimmer mouth comprising a conveyor ledge, a conveyor at least partially disposed under the conveyor ledge having a paddle wheel and a water-porous conveyor belt disposed about the paddle wheel, a conveyor debris collector disposed lower than the conveyor at a discharge end of the conveyor having a vacuum connection port, and a vacuum fluidly connected to the vacuum connection port. Water entering the skimmer mouth falls off the conveyor ledge, through the conveyor belt, onto the paddle wheel causing the paddle wheel to rotate and the conveyor belt to direct debris toward the conveyor debris collector for automated removal. The vacuum may be activated according to a predetermined interval, a predetermined schedule, or based on level sensor data to ensure that the automated skimmer system does not become clogged, without requiring manual intervention.

This disclosure relates to shaker adjustments based on sensor measurements for sensors positioned at different locations about the shaker. This disclosure explains techniques to adjust a shale shaker as would be used to separate particulates (cuttings and other solids) from drilling fluid (commonly referred to as mud) during a drilling operation. Empirical models have been formulated to provide for programming a controller to calculate run-time adjustments to the shaker to increase efficiency. The controller may control one or more shakers concurrently. Different techniques and measurement types may be used concurrently to achieve desired shaker inclination and maintain a proper beach location during operation. Sensors include accelerometers, proximity sensors, and other types of data acquisition devices that may be used to detect motion parameters of an operational (e.g., in-use and running) shaker.