EMISSIONS CONTROL WATERCRAFT

Abstract

A novel emissions control watercraft (STAXcraft) solving a long-felt but unsolved need regarding disadvantages associated with prior-art emissions servicing watercraft, the disadvantages selected from the group, but not limited to, the use of tugboats, securing or mooring servicing watercraft to a serviced vessel, additional expenses and time-delays and inefficiencies of land-based approaches, increased toxic emissions, increased greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions, danger from falling cargo, tanker safety, alongside mooring in narrow channels preventing other OGV's to pass safely, and cargo tank emissions.

Claims

1. An emissions control watercraft for servicing a serviced watercraft, the serviced watercraft stationed at berth or at anchorage, the emissions control watercraft comprising: a floating platform; an anchoring system for fixing the floating platform relative to the serviced watercraft; an exhaust capture system for receiving emissions from the serviced watercraft; a purification system coupled with the exhaust capture system for accepting and purifying the emissions from the exhaust capture system; the exhaust capture system comprising an exhaust capture arm and an exhaust pipe connector configured to connect to an emissions source of the serviced watercraft; whereby the anchoring system is configured to fix the floating platform at a position and location a distance away from the serviced watercraft which allows interconnection of the exhaust capture system to the emissions source of the serviced watercraft for operation of the purification system to accept and purify the emissions; and a propulsion system coupled with the floating platform, the propulsion system configured to propel or move the floating platform, the propulsion system comprising: a plurality of thrusters, and a control unit in communication with the plurality of thrusters, the control unit configured to control the plurality of thrusters.

2. The emissions control watercraft of claim 1, wherein the floating platform is selected from a group comprising a barge, a vessel, a self-propelled barge, a semi-submersible watercraft, a boat, or a floating dock.

3. The emissions control watercraft of claim 1, wherein the plurality of thrusters is selected from a group comprising hydraulic thrusters, electric thrusters, diesel-powered thrusters, gas-powered thrusters, or gasoline-powered thrusters.

4. The emissions control watercraft of claim 1, wherein the plurality of thrusters comprises at least two thrusters located on a port side of the floating platform.

5. The emissions control watercraft of claim 1, wherein the plurality of thrusters comprises at least two thrusters located on a starboard side of the floating platform.

6. The emissions control watercraft of claim 1, wherein the plurality of thrusters comprises at least a first thruster located on a port side of the floating platform and at least a second thruster located on a starboard side of the floating platform.

7. The emissions control watercraft of claim 1, wherein the plurality of thrusters is pivotable in one or more directions.

8. An emissions capture system for temporarily connecting to a serviced watercraft, the serviced watercraft stationed at berth or at anchor, the emissions capture system comprising: a floating platform; a plurality of emissions capture circuits extending between the floating platform and the serviced watercraft, each emissions capture circuit comprising an emissions duct for receiving emissions from an emissions connector configured to connect to an exhaust pipe or vent of an emissions source of the serviced watercraft; an exhaust capture arm configured to support each emissions duct of the plurality of emissions capture circuits, the exhaust capture arm mounted on the floating platform; and a propulsion system coupled with the floating platform, the propulsion system configured to propel or move the floating platform, the propulsion system comprising: a plurality of thrusters, and a control unit in communication with the plurality of thrusters, the control unit configured to control the plurality of thrusters.

9. The emissions capture system of claim 8, wherein the floating platform is selected from a group comprising a barge, a vessel, a self-propelled barge, a semi-submersible watercraft, a boat, or a floating dock.

10. The emissions capture system of claim 8, wherein the plurality of thrusters is selected from a group comprising hydraulic thrusters, electric thrusters, diesel-powered thrusters, gas-powered thrusters, or gasoline-powered thrusters.

11. The emissions capture system of claim 8, wherein the plurality of thrusters comprises at least two thrusters located on a port side of the floating platform.

12. The emissions capture system of claim 8, wherein the plurality of thrusters comprises at least two thrusters located on a starboard side of the floating platform.

13. The emissions capture system of claim 8, wherein the plurality of thrusters comprises a first thruster located on a port side of the floating platform and at least a second thruster located on a starboard side of the floating platform.

14. The emissions capture system of claim 8, wherein the plurality of thrusters is pivotable in one or more directions.

15. A method for purification of exhaust from a serviced watercraft, the serviced watercraft stationed at-berth or at anchorage, the method comprising: positioning a floating platform at any predetermined orientation near the serviced watercraft via a propulsion system coupled with the floating platform, the propulsion system comprising plurality of thrusters and a control unit in communication with the plurality of thrusters, the control unit configured to control the plurality of thrusters; anchoring the floating platform relative to the serviced watercraft; manipulating an exhaust capture system carried by the floating platform to connect to an emissions source for receiving emissions from an at-berth serviced watercraft; receiving the emissions from the exhaust capture system into a purification system mounted on the floating platform; and purifying the emissions by with the purification system.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein manipulating the exhaust capture system carried by the floating platform to connect to the emissions source for receiving emissions from the at-berth serviced watercraft comprises: connecting the exhaust capture system to a cargo tank vent on a deck of the serviced watercraft.

17. The method of claim 15, further comprising: powering the purification system by a low greenhouse gas emitting power source selected from a group comprising at least one hydrogen fuel cell, at least one genset running on renewable fuel, at least one solar power system, at least one rechargeable battery, or a shore power system.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein manipulating the exhaust capture system carried by the floating platform to connect to the emissions source for receiving emissions from the at-berth serviced watercraft comprises: connecting the exhaust capture system to a single exhaust pipe or vent of the emissions source of the serviced watercraft.

19. The method of claim 15, wherein positioning the floating platform at any predetermined orientation near the serviced watercraft via the propulsion system coupled with the floating platform comprises: pivoting one or more of the plurality of thrusters.

20. The method of claim 15, wherein positioning the floating platform at any predetermined orientation near the serviced watercraft via the propulsion system coupled with the floating platform comprises: activating one or more of a starboard thruster or a port thruster.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0053] The novel features which are characteristic of the present invention are set forth in the appended claims. However, embodiments, together with further objects and attendant advantages, will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0054] FIG. 1 shows an exemplary STAXcraft 100 with spuds deployed for an operational mode.

[0055] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary STAXcraft 100 with spuds stowed for a transportation mode.

[0056] FIG. 3 shows prior-art servicing watercraft 150 positioned next to a serviced watercraft 200.

[0057] FIG. 4 shows an exemplary STAXcraft 100 positioned a distance away from a serviced watercraft 200.

[0058] FIG. 5 shows an exemplary power system for a STAXcraft 100.

[0059] FIG. 6 shows an exemplary selective hydraulic system detail for a self-propelled STAXcraft 100.

[0060] FIG. 7 shows an exemplary STAXcraft 100 positioned a distance away from a serviced watercraft 200.

[0061] FIG. 8 shows an exemplary STAXcraft 100 connecting to both an exhaust pipe 220 on a funnel of serviced watercraft 200 and to a cargo tank vent 260.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0062] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

[0063] The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

[0064] FIG. 1 shows one exemplary embodiment of an emissions control watercraft (STAXcraft 100) with a floating platform 102. This exemplary embodiment discloses an anchoring system comprising four spuds, although any number of spuds may be used depending on the specific application, each spud comprising spud column 700, spudwell 710, and spud drive 720. Spudwell 710 functions as a vertical guide sleeve for spud column 700. Spud column 700 may be raised or lowered by spud drive 720. Spud drive 720 may be electrically, mechanically, or hydraulically driven winch and line system, for example. The selection of spud size depends on the depth of water where the floating platform will be used. Any suitable anchoring system may be used as an alternative to the spud example shown. STAXcraft 100 further comprises an exhaust capture system 500 which contains ducting for conveying exhaust gas from serviced vessel 200. The ducting is supported by exhaust capture arm 503. Exhaust capture system 500 fluidly connects to at least one exhaust pipe connector 510. Exhaust capture system 500 may be electrically, mechanically, or hydraulically actuated. STAXcraft 100 further comprises a purification system 400. Purification system 400 is connected to receive exhaust gas from at least one exhaust pipe connector 510 by means of exhaust capture system 500. Thrusters 800a and 800b are pivotable for directing thrust in any direction to move the watercraft 100 through the water or position the watercraft in relation to a serviced watercraft. The thrusters may be mechanically, electrically, or hydraulically powered. FIG. 1 shows the example where all four spuds deployed downward to the seafloor thereby anchoring STAXcraft 100 in a position relative to a serviced watercraft, such as a serviced watercraft 200 shown in FIG. 4.

[0065] FIG. 2 is the same as FIG. 1 except spuds 700 are stowed in the up position for travelling across water.

[0066] FIG. 3 shows a prior-art servicing watercraft 150 positioned alongside (adjacent to and parallel to) serviced vessel 200 and separated by fender/spacer/spacer barge 170. Prior-art servicing watercraft 150 is shown moored to (coupled to) serviced vessel 200 with at least one mooring line 180. Note that prior-art servicing watercraft 150 makes contact with serviced vessel 200 via fender/spacer/spacer barge 170. Prior-art servicing watercraft 150 may be moored to serviced vessel 200 by an alternative prior-art mooring device such as a stabilizing arm. Superstructure 210, funnel 230, and exhaust pipes 220 are mounted on serviced vessel 200. FIG. 3 further illustrates a prior-art exhaust capture system 504 and a prior-art bonnet 502 for capturing exhaust collectively from all the exhaust pipes located at the top of funnel 230 for conveying the exhaust gas to purification system 400. A floating platform 102 of prior-art servicing watercraft 150 and serviced watercraft 200 are traditionally separated by fender/spacer/spacer barge 170. Mooring lines 180 urge prior-art servicing watercraft 150 and serviced vessel 200 together but they are kept separated by a distance determined by the width of fender/spacer/spacer barge 170.

[0067] FIG. 4 shows one exemplary embodiment of STAXcraft 100 positioned a predetermined distance from serviced vessel 200. The exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4 also shows STAXcraft 100 oriented perpendicular to serviced vessel 200, although any desired orientation between parallel and perpendicular may be selected. Serviced vessel 200 may be an oceangoing vessel (OGV), vessel, or ship. Superstructure 210, funnel 230, and a plurality of exhaust pipes 220 are mounted on serviced vessel 200. STAXcraft 100 comprises floating platform 102, purification system 400, exhaust capture system 500, exhaust capture arm 503, and at least one exhaust pipe connector 510. Each exhaust pipe connector 510 connects to a single exhaust pipe 220. Exhaust capture system 500 includes ducting for conveying exhaust gas from at least one exhaust pipe connector 510 through exhaust capture system 500 to purification system 400. STAXcraft 100 is shown anchored at a preselected distance from serviced watercraft 200 but the preselected distance concurrently permits exhaust capture system 500 and exhaust pipe connector 510 to connect to a preselected exhaust pipe 220.

[0068] FIG. 5 shows one exemplary embodiment of a power system 900 of STAXcraft 100. Power system 900 comprises a microgrid 910, such as one provided by ABB for example, for receiving electrical power from various sources including, any combination of but not limited to, a shore power system 930, an electrical generator genset 932, a fuel cell power system 934, and a solar power system 936. Microgrid 910 further comprises energy storage system 950 for storing electrical energy and for supplying reserve electrical energy. Energy storage system 950 may be a battery, for example microgrid 910 supplies power to always-on power systems 960 that are intended to remain energized when devices that derive electrical power from operational power systems 970 are switched off. Operational power system 970 supplies power to, for example, port propulsion 980a which supplies power to port thruster 800a and starboard propulsion 980b which supplies power to starboard thruster 800b.

[0069] FIG. 6 shows one exemplary embodiment of a self-propelled STAXcraft 100 comprising a floating platform 102, exhaust capture system 500, a hydraulic power unit 610, a plurality of hydraulic propulsion units 620, and a plurality of thrusters 800. In this exemplary embodiment, exhaust capture system 500 comprises a hydraulic arm. The output of at least one hydraulic power unit 610 connects to at least one hydraulic propulsion unit 620. In this exemplary embodiment, there are two hydraulic propulsion units: a port hydraulic propulsion unit 620a, and a starboard hydraulic propulsion unit 620b. The same hydraulic power unit 610 may also connected to exhaust capture system 500. There are two exclusive modes of hydraulic operation 1) propulsion and emissions capture system operation. In one exemplary embodiment, the hydraulic power output of hydraulic power unit 610 may be selected to connect to propulsion units 620 or exhaust capture system 500, depending on the mode of operation. In this exemplary embodiment floating platform 102 is a barge. Barges work well for this purpose because they typically do not have to travel far, and stay within the harbor, or inside the breakwater, and do not need to travel in the open ocean and do not have to be seagoing. Barges are also wider than other types of watercraft, thereby providing more roll stability, which is important for an emissions control servicing watercraft considering the destabilizing reach of an exhaust capture system for connecting to a serviced watercraft, thereby reducing relative motion. Other types of vessels are anticipated, such as hulled vessels and semi-submersible watercraft. Semi-submersible watercraft have the advantage of stability and compactness.

[0070] Alternative propulsion units include electric motor-driven propulsion units, battery electric drives, diesel-electric systems, or hydrocarbon-fueled engine-driven thrusters. In the case of an emissions control servicing watercraft, hydraulically driven propulsion is preferred because one or more hydraulic power unit(s) can be shared between the thruster(s) 800 and the capture system tower and arm 500 and an anchoring system. Hydraulic propulsion units, also called hydraulic thrusters or azimuth thrusters may be obtained from ABB, Thrustmaster, and Hydraulic Marine Systems, among others. For barges, these thrusters are typically outboard systems, although built-in thrusters or pod or azipod thrusters may also be implemented.

[0071] Typically, at least two thrusters 800 are required for barge operations. Four thrusters 800 (one on each corner) is preferred in some scenarios. Hydraulic outboard propulsion units typically include the ability to rotate the direction of thrust 360 degrees.

[0072] Hydraulic thrusters 800 are commonly driven by diesel engines, with one diesel engine per thruster. For this exemplary embodiment, however, at least one hydraulic power unit(s) 610 may be connected to at least one set comprising hydraulic propulsion system 650 and thruster 800 as well as to the capture system tower and arm 500. Multiple hydraulic power units 610 would provide redundancy, as an option. Each hydraulic power unit 610 may also be powered using an electric motor. Alternatively, an internal combustion engine could power each hydraulic power unit 610.

[0073] The exhaust capture system 500 of an emissions treatment system typically uses hydraulic power to pivot the arm about the vertical axis and to power the articulation of each joint in the arm. When a shared hydraulic power unit is used, care must be taken that the hydraulic power unit 610 can supply a predetermined pressure and flow of hydraulic fluid that is compatible with all propulsion systems 980 simultaneously or the capture system tower and arm 500 or the anchoring system shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, whichever is largest.

[0074] FIG. 7 shows an exemplary embodiment of STAXcraft 100 positioned a predetermined distance from serviced vessel 200. Serviced vessel 200 is shown moored with mooring lines 320 to wharf 310 of terminal 300. STAXcraft 100 is oriented behind and inline serviced vessel 200, although any desired orientation between parallel and perpendicular may be selected. FIG. 7 shows STAXcraft 100 positioned and anchored away from mooring lines 320 while also not extending excessively outside the width of vessel 200, thereby allowing other vessels to pass by, especially in a narrow channel/waterway 390. Serviced vessel 200 may be an oceangoing vessel (OGV), vessel, or ship. Superstructure 210, funnel 230, and a plurality of exhaust pipes 220 are mounted on serviced vessel 200. In this exemplary embodiment, STAXcraft 100 comprises floating platform 102, two emissions processing circuits 501, and an exhaust capture arm 503. Each emissions processing circuit 501 comprises a purification system 400, emissions duct 520, and exhaust pipe connector 510. The exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 7, shows a first emissions processing circuit 501A comprised of exhaust pipe connector 510A, emissions duct 520A, and purification unit 400A. A second emissions processing circuit 501B is shown comprised of exhaust pipe connector 510B, emissions duct 520B, and purification unit 400B. Each emissions processing circuit 501 services a preselected exhaust pipe 220. Note, any exemplary STAXcraft 100 may be configured for at least one emissions processing circuit 501 to up to four emissions processing circuits 501, or more. Exhaust capture system 500 comprises emissions ducts 520A and 520B and exhaust pipe connectors 510A and 510B. Each emissions duct 520 is fluidly connected to an emissions connector 510 for receiving emissions from an emissions source 220. Emissions source exhaust pipe 220 may be an engine exhaust pipe, a boiler exhaust pipe, or a cargo tank vent. In the case where emissions source exhaust pipe 220 is for a cargo tank vent, then the emissions may be from an inert gas (IG) system, hydrocarbon emissions from the cargo in the tank, or a combination of IG and hydrocarbon emissions. The emissions from the IG system may be from an engine, a boiler, or an inert gas supply. Each exhaust pipe connector 510 connects to a single emissions source exhaust pipe 220. In this exemplary embodiment, STAXcraft 100 is shown anchored with spuds 700 at a preselected distance from serviced watercraft 200 and the preselected distance still permits exhaust capture system 500 to connect to a preselected exhaust pipe 220.

[0075] In another exemplary embodiment, exhaust capture system 500 may be mounted on a floating platform, a barge, a watercraft, a vessel, a wharf, a pier, a dock, a jetty, a slab, or a land-based foundation. In another exemplary embodiment, each purification system 400 may be installed on a floating platform, a barge, a watercraft, a vessel, a wharf, a pier, a dock, a jetty, a slab, or a remote land-based foundation.

[0076] Hydrocarbon gas normally encountered in petroleum tankers cannot burn in an atmosphere containing less than approximately 11% oxygen by volume. Accordingly, one way to provide protection against fire or explosion in the vaper space of cargo tanks is to keep the oxygen level below that figure. This is usually achieved by using a piping arrangement to blow inert gas into each cargo tank to reduce the air content, and hence the oxygen content, and render the tank atmosphere non-flammable. The source of inert gas (IG) may be selectively diverted from the engines or boilers of serviced vessel 200. Thus, emissions that would otherwise exit via an exhaust pipe 220 may be diverted by an IG system through a cargo tank to a location that is not located near the other exhaust pipes 220 on funnel 230, but instead on the deck of the tanker, usually near the cargo tank that is being vented. The emissions from a vent 260 may be selected from the group consisting of hydrocarbon vapors, engine emissions, and boiler emissions. There may be more than one vent 260, typically one per cargo tank. It is desired to capture and purify the vent 260 emissions in addition to engine and boiler emissions from the exhaust pipes 220 on funnel 230.

[0077] FIG. 8 shows an exemplary embodiment of STAXcraft 100 positioned a predetermined distance from serviced vessel 200. Serviced vessel 200 is shown moored with mooring lines 320 to wharf 310 of terminal 300. STAXcraft 100 is shown oriented behind and inline serviced vessel 200, although any desired orientation between parallel and perpendicular may be selected. Serviced vessel 200 may be an oceangoing vessel (OGV), vessel, tanker, or ship. Superstructure 210, funnel 230, and a plurality of exhaust pipes 220 are mounted on serviced vessel 200. In this exemplary embodiment, STAXcraft 100 comprises floating platform 102, two emissions processing circuits 501, and an exhaust capture arm 503. Each emissions processing circuit 501 comprises a purification system 400, emissions duct 520, and exhaust pipe connector 510.

[0078] The exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 8, shows a first emissions processing circuit 501A comprised of exhaust pipe connector 510A, emissions duct 520A, and purification unit 400A. FIG. 8 further shows at least one vent 260 for venting a gas from a cargo tank on serviced vessel 200. In this example, vent 260 not located on funnel 230, but on the deck of the tanker. Vent 260 may be a high velocity vent installed at a typical minimum height of 2 m above the deck, or a vent riser with a typical minimum height of 6 m above the deck, or simply a hatch for a cargo tank on serviced vessel 200. In this example, emissions processing circuit 501B is instead applied to a vent 260. Vent emissions duct 580 extends the reach of emissions processing circuit 501B for connection to a vent connector 570. Vent emissions duct 580 may be a selected from commercially available flex duct of a predetermined length to reach from any of the tank vents 570 to the interface to the 510B connector. Vent connector 570 is sized for placement over vent 260 for capturing vent emissions. Vent emissions duct 580 may either connect directly to emissions duct 520 or to exhaust pipe connector 510 via an adapter.

[0079] Note: A corresponding number of emissions processing circuits 501 may be used for any expected combination of exhaust pipes 220 and vents 260.

REFERENCE NUMERALS

[0080] 100 STAXcraft (emissions control watercraft) [0081] 102 Floating Platform [0082] 150 Prior-art Servicing Watercraft/Emissions control watercraft [0083] 170 Fender/spacer/spacer barge [0084] 180 Mooring Line [0085] 200 Serviced watercraft, Vessel, or Oceangoing Vessel (OGV) [0086] 210 Superstructure/House/Accommodation Block [0087] 220 Emissions Source Exhaust Pipe [0088] 230 Funnel [0089] 250 Bunker Barge/Another servicing watercraft [0090] 260 Vent [0091] 300 Terminal [0092] 310 Wharf [0093] 320 Mooring Line [0094] 390 Channel/Waterway [0095] 400 Purification System/Emissions Processing Unit [0096] 500 Exhaust Capture System [0097] 501 Emissions Processing Circuit [0098] 502 Bonnet [0099] 503 Exhaust Capture Arm [0100] 504 Prior-art Exhaust Capture System [0101] 510 Exhaust Pipe Connector [0102] 520 Emissions Duct [0103] 570 Vent Connector [0104] 580 Vent Emissions Duct [0105] 610 Hydraulic Power Unit [0106] 620 Port Propulsion Unit [0107] 630 Starboard Propulsion Unit [0108] 650 Hydraulic Piping, Hydraulic Propulsion System [0109] 652 Hydraulic Piping, Exhaust Capture System [0110] 700 Spud Column [0111] 710 Spudwell [0112] 720 Spud Drive [0113] 750 Seafloor [0114] 800 Thruster [0115] 900 Power System [0116] 910 Microgrid [0117] 930 Shore Power System [0118] 932 Electrical Generator/Genset [0119] 934 Fuel Cell [0120] 936 Solar [0121] 950 Energy Storage System [0122] 960 Always-on Power System [0123] 970 Operational Power System [0124] 980 Propulsion Power System

Operation

Operation

[0125] Diesel engines produce electrical power for vessels. These diesel engines produce diesel exhaust, which contains particulate matter, oxides of nitrogen, and sulfur dioxide, which cause harm to human health and the environment. After a vessel travels into a port and moors to a wharf it turns the main engine off. However, at least one large diesel engine continues to generate electrical power for the vessel even during the at-berth mode. Unfortunately, each auxiliary engine produces a similar amount of exhaust as tens of thousands of automobiles, and these emissions continue to be emitted from the vessel until the vessel departs from the port. FIG. 4 shows an example vessel 200 that contains diesel engines in an engine room which is located under and within superstructure 210. Each diesel engine has an exhaust pipe 220 that conveys exhaust from the diesel engine to the top of funnel 230 to atmosphere outside of vessel 200. All exhaust pipes exit the vessel at the deck that is located near the top of funnel 230, with one exhaust pipe per engine. Thus, each operating diesel engine creates emissions that escape into the atmosphere through its associated exhaust pipe 220 located on top of funnel 230 unless the pollution is captured and purified by a STAXcraft 100.

[0126] The following describes the operation of several exemplary embodiments of an emissions control watercraft (STAXcraft 100) that has solved the disadvantages listed herein.

[0127] FIG. 2 shows STAXcraft 100 with an anchoring system comprising spud columns 700, whereas the spud columns 700 are raised thereby allowing transport of STAXcraft 100 across the top of a body of water. STAXcraft 100 is self-propelled using a plurality of thrusters 800 and thus does not require tugboats to transport it or to position it near serviced watercraft 200. When a serviced vessel 200, such as an oceangoing vessel (OGV) for example, comes to berth and is moored onto a wharf 310 at terminal 300 (see FIG. 7), then STAXcraft 100 moves under its own power using thrusters 800 to a predetermined location, as shown in FIG. 4 for example, within reach of the exhaust pipes 220 of serviced watercraft 200, but with a predetermined space between STAXcraft 100 and serviced watercraft 200. While the anchoring system or spuds 700 are still retracted upwards, STAXcraft 100 moves under its own power with thrusters 800 to a location where if cargo were to fall from serviced watercraft 200, the cargo would miss STAXcraft 100 and splash into the water in a location where a prior-art servicing watercraft would likely have been. Furthermore, if bunker operations are planned during the vessel call, then STAXcraft 100 may be placed at a sufficient distance away from serviced watercraft 200 or offset to one side such that another servicing watercraft such as a bunker (fueling) barge may fit between STAXcraft 100 and serviced watercraft 200, thereby allowing both servicing operations to take place concurrently. Alternatively, STAXcraft 100 may be positioned sufficiently fore or aft along the side of serviced watercraft 200, so that both STAXcraft 100 and a bunker barge can service serviced watercraft 200 concurrently. Cargo operations may be temporarily halted in the OGV section above STAXcraft 100 during the interval when STAXcraft 100 is temporarily positioned to allow the other servicing watercraft 250 to share the same general location next to serviced watercraft 200. Once STAXcraft 100 is positioned at a predetermined location, then the anchoring system is activated, which in this example embodiment, is accomplished by the lowering of spuds 700 downward to the seafloor, thereby fixing STAXcraft 100 in the predetermined location.

[0128] Alternatively, if the serviced watercraft 200 is a tanker, then STAXcraft 100 is preferably be positioned aft of the watercraft 200 (see FIGS. 7 and 8) in a location that still allows exhaust capture system 500 to reach exhaust pipes 220 and also avoids any OGV-to-wharf mooring lines 320 and also places a maximized distance between STAXcraft 100 and serviced watercraft 200. The maximized distance provides additional safety by avoiding heavier-than-air explosive vapors that would otherwise flow down to a prior-art watercraft that would be secured alongside a tanker. Furthermore, a location aft of the tanker superstructure (house) is considered safe of explosive hazards, while the location alongside a tanker is considered dangerous due to explosive hazards. Once STAXcraft 100 is in the preferred location, then the anchoring system is activated, spuds 700 are deployed downward to the seafloor, which fixes STAXcraft 100 in a predetermined location relative to tanker 200. The placement of STAXcraft 100 relative to tanker 200 is considered safe, as opposed to the former method of securing a prior-art servicing watercraft alongside tanker 200 which is considered unsafe.

[0129] This exemplary embodiment discloses an anchoring system comprising four spuds, although any number of spuds could be used, although only a minimum two spuds are required, each spud comprising spud column 700, spudwell 710, and spud drive 720. Spudwell 710 functions as a vertical guide sleeve for spud column 700. Spud column 700 may be raised or lowered by spud drive 720. Spud drive 720 may be either an electrical, mechanical, or hydraulic winch and line system, for example. In this exemplary embodiment, a steel cable that is attached to the foot of spud column 700 and is retracted by a hydraulic winch such that the spud column is lifted through spudwell 710 thereby allowing STAXcraft 100 to travel along the water.

[0130] Once STAXcraft 100 is in the predetermined location, then, in one exemplary embodiment, the spud columns 700 are lowered to the seabed (see FIG. 4) thereby anchoring STAXcraft 100 and fixing the location of STAXcraft 100 at the predetermined location. Lowering a spud column 700 is accomplished by releasing any brakes and causing the direction of the winch to pay out the steel cable which attached to the foot of spud column 700. Gravity pulls spud column 700 to the extent that the winch leases a length of steel cable, for example.

[0131] Once STAXcraft 100 is anchored in the predetermined location, then as shown in an exemplary embodiment in FIG. 4, exhaust capture system 500 is manipulated to bring exhaust pipe connector 510 to a selected exhaust pipe 220. After connecting to the selected exhaust pipe 220 of serviced watercraft 200, then exhaust is drawn through exhaust capture system 500 and then through purification system 400, thereby purifying the exhaust gas emissions prior to release to the atmosphere.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 5, operational power system 970 is activated during an operational mode, including for example, but not limited to, when warming-up purification system 400, testing STAXcraft 100, connecting to a serviced vessel 200 for purifying emissions, or cooling-down purification system 400. An exemplary use of always-on power system 960 is for when STAXcraft 100 is in a non-operational mode in which STAXcraft 100 is, for example, not propelling itself, not connecting to or disconnecting from serviced vessel 200, not operating an anchoring system, or not operating purification system 400. Another exemplary use of always-on power system 960 is for when STAXcraft 100 is between operations and is idle (between operations) at a home berth. During the non-operational mode, microgrid 910 may be powered, for example, by a shore power system 930 or a solar power system 936. Also, during the non-operational mode, for example, microgrid 910 may power always-on power system 960 for powering instruments that are predetermined to remain operational such as lights, communications, instruments, and supervisory control systems. Also, during a non-operational mode, energy storage system 950 may be re-charged. Alternatively, always-on power system 960 may be switched off during infrequent any predetermined events, including but not limited to, service, maintenance, and extended downtime.

[0133] In one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, STAXcraft 100 includes at least one propulsion system 980 that is supplied hydraulic power from a single hydraulic power unit 610, whereas each propulsion system 980 supplies hydraulic power to a connected thruster 800. Alternatively, each hydraulic power unit 610 for may be dedicated to a particular hydraulic propulsion unit 980. Another alternative configuration is to have more than one hydraulic power units 610 for redundancy, but each hydraulic power unit 610 can be directed to any hydraulic propulsion unit. A propulsion system 980 may alternatively be powered by diesel engine(s), or diesel-electric engine(s), or electric motor(s).

[0134] An exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 6 illustrates hydraulic power unit 610 powering exhaust capture system 500 via hydraulic piping 652, and alternately powering at least one hydraulic propulsion system 620 via hydraulic piping 650. A STAXcraft 100 may have two modes of operation which are exclusive of each other. A first mode is for self-propulsion of STAXcraft 100. A second mode is for operating the manipulation of exhaust capture system 500. Once STAXcraft 100 is positioned at a predetermined distance from serviced vessel 200, the anchoring system may be enabled and the propulsion system may be turned off, thereby freeing hydraulic power unit 610 to provide hydraulic power to exhaust capture system 500 for connecting and disconnecting to serviced vessel 200. Once exhaust capture system 500 is disconnected and stowed, then hydraulic power from hydraulic power unit 610 may be again redirected to at least one propulsion unit 620. Thus, a single hydraulic power unit 610 may supply hydraulic power for both a propulsion system 620 of STAXcraft 100 and for selectively powering a manipulation of exhaust capture system 500, thereby reducing the number of hydraulic power units 610 required thereby reducing the capital cost and the complexity of STAXcraft 100.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 7, in one exemplary embodiment, after a serviced watercraft 200 is moored at terminal 300 alongside wharf 310 with mooring lines 320. STAXcraft 100 is positioned using propulsion units 620 and thrusters 800 so the distance between STAXcraft 100 and serviced watercraft 200 is maximized while still allowing exhaust capture system 500 to reach selected exhaust pipes 220 while also avoiding any OGV-to-wharf mooring lines 320. Note that the exemplary position of STAXcraft 100 shown allows other OGV's to pass though a channel/waterway 390, whereas if a prior-art servicing watercraft were located alongside the serviced vessel 200, other OGV's would not be able to pass safely, as documented in the SRIA. Also note that as OGV's have become larger and wider over time and the width of existing channels/waterways 390 are fixed, this is becoming more of a problem. This problem is solved by the present application. If serviced watercraft 200 is a tanker, for example, the maximized distance provides additional safety by avoiding heavier-than-air explosive vapors that would otherwise flow down to a deck of a prior-art servicing watercraft that would be secured alongside a tanker. Furthermore, a location aft of a tanker superstructure/accommodation block/house is considered safe of explosive hazards. Once STAXcraft 100 has been positioned in a preferred location, then an anchoring system is activated. In this exemplary embodiment, the anchoring system comprises spuds 700 which are deployed downward through spudwells 710 using spud drives 720, where the pointed ends of at least two spuds 700 are embedded in the seafloor, which fixes STAXcraft 100 in a predetermined location relative to a serviced watercraft 200. Once anchored, in an exemplary embodiment, hydraulic power from hydraulic power unit 610 to propulsion units 620 (if hydraulic propulsion is used) is deselected and hydraulic power to emissions capture system 500 is selected. Exhaust capture system 500 is manipulated to connect at least one exhaust pipe connector 510 to at least one exhaust pipe 220 and activating the associated emissions processing circuit 501 for the capture of the emissions from an exhaust pipe 220 by exhaust pipe connector 510, conveying emissions through emissions duct 520 to purification system 400 for the purification of the emissions. If additional exhaust pipes 220 are selected to be controlled, then the same procedure may be followed using additional emissions processing circuits 501 on the same exhaust capture arm 503. Note that it is anticipated that one to four (or more) emissions processing circuits 501 can be accommodated by a single exhaust capture arm 503, whereby each exhaust pipe connector 510 is individually maneuverable separately from exhaust capture arm 503 for connection to each selected exhaust pipe 220. Once the serviced watercraft 200 is ready to depart, then the reverse procedure is used to detach from exhaust pipe(s) 220, retract and stow exhaust capture system 500, lift the spuds 700 through spudwells 710 using spud drives 720, and move away from serviced vessel 200.

[0136] The operation described under FIG. 7 above, is generally the same for FIG. 8, except for the connection of at least one vent 260 as follows. In one exemplary embodiment, once anchored, exhaust capture system 500 is manipulated to bring an exhaust pipe connector 510A to a selected exhaust pipe 220. A second connector 510B is manipulated for attachment to a vent emissions duct 580. Vent emissions duct 580 is manually manipulated along the deck of tanker 200 to a selected vent 260 where a vent connector 570 is placed over vent 260 for capturing emissions from at least one cargo tank on serviced watercraft 200. The emissions from the cargo tank(s) are selected from the group consisting of hydrocarbon fumes from the cargo, exhaust from a boiler, exhaust from an engine, and inert gas. After connecting to at least one emissions source from the group consisting of exhaust pipe 220 and vent 260 of serviced watercraft 200, then emissions are drawn through exhaust capture system 500 and then through purification system 400, thereby purifying the exhaust gas emissions prior to release to the atmosphere. Note that an exemplary embodiment can be configured to process emissions from only boiler emissions, or only auxiliary engine emissions, or only tank vent emissions, or any combination of the three emissions sources.

[0137] The above description is intended to enable the person skilled in the art to practice the invention. It is not intended to detail all of the possible modifications and variations that will become apparent to the skilled worker upon reading the description. It is intended, however, that all such modifications and variations be included within the scope of the invention that is seen in the above description and otherwise defined by the following claims.

CONCLUSION, RAMIFICATIONS, AND SCOPE

[0138] The foregoing describes a novel emissions control watercraft (STAXcraft) solving a long-felt but unsolved need that resolves disadvantages associated with prior-art emissions servicing watercraft, the disadvantages selected from the group, but not limited to, the use of tugboats, securing or mooring servicing watercraft alongside a serviced vessel, additional expenses and time-delays and inefficiencies of land-based emissions control systems, inefficient toxic emissions reduction, increased greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions, danger from falling cargo, danger when used with petroleum tankers, danger when used alongside in narrow channels, and the inability to reduce tanker emissions.

[0139] The following ramifications have been anticipated by the Applicant:

[0140] Alternative anticipated alternative anchoring systems include mooring to anchors placed in a predetermined location on the seafloor, the anchors selected from the group consisting of but not limited to concrete blocks, clump weights, screw anchors, helix anchors, piles, suction piles, drag anchors, torpedo piles, bag anchor systems, concrete footings, vertical load anchors (VLA's), and ground chains.

[0141] Electrical generator/genset 932 may be fueled with, but not limited to, e-fuel, biofuel, fossil fuel, or renewable diesel fuel.

[0142] Fuel cell system 934 may utilize any chemical energy, including any form of hydrogen, including but not limited to, brown hydrogen, blue hydrogen, and green hydrogen. Fuel cell system 934 may be a proton exchange membrane (PEM or PEMFC) fuel cell, polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell, a direct methanol fuel cell, an alkaline fuel cell (AFC), a phosphoric acid fuel cell (PAFC), a molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC), a solid acid fuel cell (SAFC), a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC), or a reversible fuel cell. Fuel cell system 934 may further include storage tanks for storing compressed gas or liquid.

[0143] Energy storage 950 may be, but is not limited to, a lithium-ion battery system, a redox-flow battery system, or a zinc-hybrid battery system, or a reversible fuel cell.

[0144] Alternative anticipated alternative anchoring systems include mooring to anchors placed in a predetermined location on the seafloor, the anchors selected from the group consisting of but not limited to concrete blocks, clump weights, screw anchors, helix anchors, piles, suction piles, drag anchors, torpedo piles, bag anchor systems, concrete footings, vertical load anchors (VLA's), and ground chains.

[0145] Each processing circuit 501 may be land-based instead of barge-based where it is determined that a land-based system is advantageous in a particular application. Thus, any combination of exhaust pipe 200 and vent 260 may be serviced from a land-based platform instead of a barge-based platform.

[0146] Each purification unit 400 may be configured differently when processing emissions from an exhaust pipe 220 versus a vent 260.

[0147] Emissions from a vent 260 may alternatively be routed by separate ducting that the ducting of emissions capture system 500. Thus, vent 260 would be connected independently to a purification system 400 with separate ducting or a combination of a vessel diverting ducting system and ducting.