DREDGE SYSTEM

Abstract

A dredge system includes a float having an inlet and an outlet, a drive device including a drive wheel and a suction intake, and a control arm connected to the inlet of the float and an outlet of the suction intake, the control arm configured to extend vertically from the drive device, the float configured to maintain a position directly above the drive device and the drive wheel configured to move the suction intake.

Claims

1. A dredge system, comprising: a float having an inlet and an outlet; a drive device including a drive wheel and a suction intake; and a control arm connected to the inlet of the float and an outlet of the suction intake, the control arm configured to extend vertically from the drive device, the float configured to maintain a position directly above the drive device and the drive wheel configured to move the suction intake.

2. The dredge system of claim 1, wherein the suction intake is a bi-directional suction intake configured to be capable of dredging in both a forward direction and a rearward direction.

3. The dredge system of claim 1, wherein wherein the drive wheel includes movable drive wheel extensions configured to extend to provide traction for soft or loose surface.

4. The dredge system of claim 3, wherein the movable drive wheel extensions are electric, pneumatic or hydraulic.

5. The dredge system of claim 1, wherein the drive wheel includes rubber blocks on an exterior thereof.

6. The dredge system of claim 1, wherein the control arm is hollow to enable dredges material to pass therethrough.

7. The dredge system of claim 1, wherein the drive wheel is a first drive wheel and the drive device includes a second drive wheel.

8. The dredge system of claim 7, wherein the first and second drive wheels are individually powered and controllable.

9. The dredge system of claim 7, wherein the drive device includes first and second motors to control the first and second drive wheels, respectfully.

10. The dredge system of claim 1, wherein the float includes a GPS.

11. The dredge system of claim 1, wherein a conduit is attached to the outlet of the float to enable dredged material to be pumped.

12. A dredge system, comprising: a float having an inlet and an outlet; a pump in communication with the outlet of the float and configured to pump a fluid or slurry; a drive device including a suction intake, a first drive wheel and a second drive wheel, and the drive device configured to move along a bottom surface beneath the fluid or the slurry and suction material into the suction intake; and a control arm connected in communication with the inlet of the float and an outlet of the suction intake, the control arm configured to extend vertically from the drive device, the float configured to maintain a position directly above the drive device, and communicate the slurry or the fluid from the suction intake to the float.

13. The dredge system of claim 12, wherein the suction intake is a bi-directional suction intake configured to be capable of dredging in both a forward direction and a rearward direction.

14. The dredge system of claim 12, wherein wherein each of the first and second drive wheels includes movable drive wheel extensions configured to extend to provide traction for soft or loose surface.

15. The dredge system of claim 14, wherein the movable drive wheel extensions are electric, pneumatic or hydraulic.

16. The dredge system of claim 12, wherein each of the first and second drive wheels includes rubber blocks on an exterior thereof.

17. The dredge system of claim 12, wherein the first and second drive wheels are individually powered and controllable.

18. The dredge system of claim 12, wherein the drive device includes first and second motors to control the first and second drive wheels, respectfully.

19. The dredge system of claim 12, wherein the float includes a GPS.

20. The dredge system of claim 12, wherein the outlet of the float is positioned 90 degrees offset from the inlet of the float.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Embodiments of the invention will be explained on more detail hereinafter with reference to the drawings.

[0027] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dredge system disposed on a floating barge;

[0028] FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the dredge system of FIG. 1 disposed on the floating barge;

[0029] FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of the dredge system on FIG. 1;

[0030] FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of the dredge system on FIG. 1 with the drive wheel extensions deployed;

[0031] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the bi-directional sled and drive wheels of the dredge system of FIG. 1;

[0032] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the bi-directional sled and drive wheels of the dredge system of FIG. 1 with the drive wheel extensions deployed.

[0033] FIG. 7 is an enlarged sectional view of the bi-directional sled and drive wheels of the dredge system of FIG. 1 with the di-directional sled in a first configuration;

[0034] FIG. 8 is an enlarged sectional view of the bi-directional sled and drive wheels of the dredge system of FIG. 1 with the di-directional sled in a second configuration;

[0035] FIGS. 9A-9C are side elevational views in section illustrating the switching bi-directional sled from the first configuration to the second configuration; and

[0036] FIG. 10 illustrates a computer controlled drive device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the following descriptions of the embodiments are provided for illustration only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0038] Referring initially to FIGS. 1-3 a dredge system 10 disposed on a floating barge FB. The floating barge FB floats on the surface S of a fluid F. On the bottom B below the fluid F, there is a material M or slurry to be dredged (or any other surface). The floating barge FB is configured to move the dredge system 10 relative the bottom B of the material M or slurry. The barge FB can be self-propelled, propelled by any suitable external movement device (e.g., a cable and pulley system), or can be passive and moved by the dredge system 10 or any other motivation system or device.

[0039] It is noted that the barge FB can be optional and the dredge system 10 can operate without the barge FB and pump the material M or slurry directly to solid ground. In such an embodiment, the pump can be disposed in any suitable location.

[0040] As can be understood, the dredge system 10 can be deployed on such a barge FB to enable the dredge system 10 to freely move relative to the material M or slurry. In one embodiment, the barge FB is propelled to move the dredge system 10 relative to the material M or slurry to enable dredging of the desired material M.

[0041] The barge FB can include a pump 12 to pump the dredged material M from the bottom B to a suitable receptacle. As can be understood, the dredge system 10 dredges the material M which passes from the float through the conduit 14 to the pump 12 and out through the conduit 16 and onto the hard surface where a reservoir or other suitable container is manner for holding or disposing of the material M is located. The pump 12 can be an Eddy Pump, for example, as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/176,495, filed Oct. 31, 2018, entitled Eddy Pump, the entire contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.

[0042] The conduits 14 and 16 can be held afloat using floats 18 above or at the surface S of the fluid F. One float device that is preferred is disclosed in co-pending application Ser. No. 17/668,099, filed Feb. 9, 2022, and Ser. No. 17/832,827, filed Jun. 6, 2022. Another float system that can be used is disclosed in co-pending application Ser. No. 19/181,456, filed Apr. 17, 2025. The disclosures of co-pending applications Ser. Nos. 17/668,099, 17/832,827 and 19/181,456 are incorporated herein in their entirety.

[0043] As illustrated in FIGS. 3-8, the dredge system 10 includes a float 20 having an inlet 22 and an outlet 24, a drive device 26 including a first drive wheel 28, a second drive wheel 30 and a suction intake 32, and a control arm 34 connected to the inlet 22 of the float 20 and an outlet 36 of the suction intake 32, the control arm 34 is configured to extend vertically from the drive device 26, and the float 20 is configured to maintain a position directly above the drive device 26 and the drive wheels 26 and 28 are configured to move the drive device 26, such that the suction intake 32 is configured to move along the bottom B to suction material M. In one embodiment, the outlet 24 of the float 20 is positioned 90 degrees offset from the inlet 22 of the float 20.

[0044] The float 20 can be formed from a thermoplastic or plastic material or any other suitable material that enables the float 20 to float in the material M or slurry. The inlet 22 of the float 20 is disposed on a lower surface 38 and is in fluid communication with the control arm 34. The outlet 24 of the float 20 is disposed on a lateral side 40 and is in fluid communication with the conduit 14. Preferably, the outlet 24 is disposed so as to be above the waterline W of the float 20, such that the outlet is disposed above the surface S of the fluid F; however, the outlet 24 can be disposed in any suitable position or on any suitable surface or side. Moreover, while the float 20 generally has buoyancy sufficient such that at least a portion of the float 20 is above the surface S of the fluid M, the float 20 can be completely submerged, partially submerged or disposed in any suitable manner relative to the surface S of the fluid F. In such a situation, the outlet 24 of the float 20 can be above, below or at the surface S of the fluid F.

[0045] The float 20 can include a GPS location system 42 to determine the specific location of the float. Such a GPS location system 42 enables precise tracking of the dredge system 10 to determine where the dredge system 10 has dredged and map a path that the dredge system 10 will follow to most efficiently dredge the material M. In one embodiment, the GPS location system 42 includes a dual antenna system further increasing location determination. That is the GPS location system 42 can include a first antenna 42a and a second antenna 42b. As can be understood, the GPS location system 42 receives radio waves from a plurality of navigation satellites to obtain information that represents, for example, a current heading of the float 20, a current position of the float 20 in two or three dimensions, a current angular orientation of the float 20, or a combination thereof, as discussed in more detail below.

[0046] The control arm 34 can be formed thermoplastic or plastic material and couples the float 20 to the drive device 26. The control arm 34 can be a hollow tube with an inlet end 32 and an outlet end 46. The inlet end 32 is connected to the drive device 26 and the outlet end 46 is connected to the float 20. The control arm 34 is sized and configured to enable the material M to pass therethrough from the drive device 26 and into the float 20. In one embodiment, the control arm 34 is generally rigid such that movement of the float 20 and/or movement of the drive system 26 results in the movement of the other. Thus, the control arm 34 is capable of controlling the movement of the float 20.

[0047] As illustrated in FIGS. 5-8, the drive device 26 includes bi-directional sled 48, the first drive wheel 28, the second drive wheel 30, a first drive motor 50 and a second drive motor 52. The bi-directional sled 48 is a device that is capable of dredging material M in two different directions without changing the orientation of the overall dredging system or the drive device.

[0048] The bi-directional sled 48 includes a support structure 54, a shroud assembly 56 and a water nozzle assembly 58.

[0049] The support structure 54 of the bi-directional sled 48 includes parallel central panels 60 and side panels 62, as shown in FIGS. 3-13. The central panels 60 are spaced apart from one another and are dimensioned and shaped to couple to a bracket 64a at an inlet end 64 of the control arm 34. That is, the brackets 64a are structural plates that are connected to the inlet end 64 of the control arm 34. The brackets 64a can be coupled to the panels 60 using a fastener, such as a nut and bolt attachment to attach the drive device 26 to the control arm 34,

[0050] More specifically, upper rearward ends of the central panels 60 are attached to the support structure 54. That is, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the support structure 54 is constructed with lower ends of each of the central panels 60 attached thereto. The side panels 62 are fixed to opposite sides of the support structure 54 parallel to the central panels 60.

[0051] The support structure 54 further includes a plurality of classifier bars 76 having an overall curved or curvilinear shape. The plurality of classifier bars 76 are spaced apart from one another by a predetermined distance that is less than the diameter of the inlet 32.

[0052] As shown in FIGS. 5-8, the shroud assembly 56 includes pivot shafts 80, a pair of runners 82 and a shroud 84. The shroud 84 is an elongated panel having a first end fixed to one of the runners 82 and a second end fixed to the other of the runners 82.

[0053] Each of the runners 82 as a curvilinear shape with curved portions and straight portions. Each of the two runners 82 include a corresponding one of the pivot shafts 80, as described further below. During movement of the bi-directional sled 48, the runners 82 pivot about the pivot shafts 80 and, in effect, serve as wheels that can undergo limited pivoting movement, as is described in greater detail below.

[0054] The shroud 84 can have a curved or contoured shape. Upper and lower surfaces of the shroud 84 are preferably approximately parallel to an axis A that extends through each of the pivot shafts 80. The exposed edge 86 of the shroud 84 define leading edges that initially break up and then scoop up debris and slurry during the dredging process, as is described further below. Each direction of the shroud 84 has a leading edge; however only edge 86 is described herein.

[0055] The pivot shafts 80 are co-axially aligned with one another and define the axis A that extends through the support structure 54. The pivot shafts 80 are supported by corresponding ones of the side panels 62 of the support structure 54 for pivotal movement such that the shroud assembly 56 pivots about the axis A. The side panels 62 can each include bearings (not shown) that are co-axially aligned with the pivot shafts 80 and support the pivot shafts 80 to corresponding ones of the side panels 62 of the support structure 54.

[0056] The shroud assembly 56 can pivot between a first orientation and a second orientation. See for example, FIGS. 7 and 8. The shroud assembly 56 is shaped and configured such that with the shroud assembly 56 being moved by the drive device 26 in a first direction D.sub.1 along a bottom B of a channel or fluid F, the curvilinear shape of the runners 82 causes the shroud assembly 56 to pivot to the first orientation. Since the shroud 84 is fixedly attached to the runners 82, the shroud 84 pivots with the runners 82. Conversely, with the shroud assembly 56 being moved by the drive device 26 in a second direction D.sub.2 along the bottom B surface S of the channel or body of water W, the curvilinear shape of the runners 82 causes the shroud assembly 56 to pivot to the second orientation. Hence, friction between the bottom B and the runners 82 causes the runners 82 to that pivot and re-position the shroud assembly 56 between the first orientation (FIG. 7) and the second orientation (FIG. 8).

[0057] For example, as shown in FIGS. 9A-9C, while moving in the first direction D.sub.1, the curvilinear shape of the runners 82 generates friction while in contact with bottom B keeping the shroud assembly 56 in the first orientation. As shown in FIG. 9B, when movement in the first direction D.sub.1 ceases and movement in the second direction D.sub.2 begins, the runners 82 cause the shroud assembly 56 to begin to pivot through an intermediate position. Continued movement in the second direction D.sub.2 causes the shroud assembly 56 to pivot to the second orientation, as shown in FIG. 8. The reverse, where movement of the shroud assembly 56 changes from the second direction D.sub.2 to the first direction D.sub.1 causes the shroud assembly 56 to pivot from the second orientation (FIG. 8) to the first orientation (FIG. 7).

[0058] The shroud 84 has an edge 86 shown in FIG. 8. The edge 86 acts as a blade or shovel edge when the bi-directional sled 48 is moved in the direction D.sub.2 with the shroud assembly 56 moved to the second orientation. As can be understood, there is a similar edge that acts as a blade or shovel edge when the bi-directional sled 48 is moved in the first direction D.sub.1 with the shroud assembly 56 pivoted to the first orientation.

[0059] In other words, with the drive device 26 moving the support structure 54 and the shroud assembly 56 in the first direction D.sub.1, the shroud assembly 56 automatically (via friction) moves to the first orientation and the edge scoops up debris or material from the bottom B. With the drive device 26 moving the support structure 54 and the shroud assembly 56 in the second direction D.sub.2, the shroud assembly 56 automatically (via friction) moves to the second orientation and the edge 88 further scoops up debris from the bottom B. With the pivoting capability of the shroud assembly 56 relative to the support structure 54, there is no need to lift or move the bi-directional sled 48 in order to reposition the bi-directional sled 48 for a subsequent dredging of material M. Rather, the drive device 26 only has to reverse direction of movement of the bi-directional sled 48 during a dredging operation.

[0060] The shroud panel 64 of the support structure 54 includes the outlet 32. As the drive device 26 moves the bi-directional sled 48 in the first direction D.sub.1 and the second direction D.sub.2 along the bottom B, material M dredged by the shroud 84 is directed between the classifier bars 76 and toward the outlet 32. The classifier bars 76 serve two purposes. First, the classifier bars 76 help to break up large clumps of debris and also prevent rocks larger than the distance between the classifier bars 76 from passing into the area between the shroud panel 64 and the shroud 84. Further, the curved shape of the shroud 84 is such that dredged material M that has passed into the area between the shroud panel 64 and the shroud 84 is pushed upward toward the shroud panel 64 allowing suction via the pump 12, the suction pump 32 and the outlet 32 to further draw debris and dredged material M away from the bottom B. As shown in FIG. 8, the shroud 84 is located below the classifier bars 76.

[0061] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the water nozzle assembly 58 (also referred to as a water spraying structure 58) includes a feed pipe 90. In one embodiment, the nozzle assembly 58 can also include a valve (not shown) and first and second manifolds 94. The first and second manifolds 94 are attached to the support structure 54 via attachment plates 60. Each of the first and second manifolds 94 includes a plurality of nozzles N such that when pressurized water is fed to either of first and second manifolds 94 the corresponding nozzles N spray water W.sub.S (water spraying W.sub.S). More specifically, each of the first and second manifolds 94 is dimensioned and shaped to spray water W.sub.S on material M being dredged.

[0062] As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9C with the shroud assembly 56 moving or having been recently moved in the second direction D2 relative to material M a valve lever of the valve (not shown) is moved to a first position such that pressurized water from the water supply pump via a water supply pipe is further directed via the valve to the manifold 94 and the nozzles N.

[0063] During operation of the dredging system 30 during which the drive device 26 moves the bi-directional sled 48 back and forth in the first direction D.sub.1 and the second direction D.sub.2, the following occurs. Pressurized water pumped to the water nozzle assembly 58 to water W.sub.S to spray out the nozzles N of the corresponding one of the first and second manifolds 94. The spraying water W.sub.S loosens earth and/or material M to be dredged so that the movement of the bi-directional sled 48 can cause the corresponding one of the exposed edges 86 of the shroud 84 to scoop up the debris and/or material M. The debris and/or earth is pushed by the motion of the bi-directional sled 48 between the classifier bars 76 and into a space defined between the shroud 84 and the shroud panel 64. Thereafter, suction provided by the pump 12 urges the debris and/or material M through the outlet 32 and upward through the control arm 32. When the drive device 26 has moved the bi-directional sled 48 a sufficient distance in one of the first direction D.sub.1 or the second direction D.sub.2, the drive device can be reversed such that the direction of movement of the bi-directional sled 48 is moved to the other of the first direction D.sub.1 or the second direction D.sub.2 without lifting the bi-directional sled 48 from the bottom B. Since the movement of the bi-directional sled 48 in the first direction D.sub.1 and the second direction D.sub.2 provides the same scooping and collecting capability, the dredging operation is more efficient and more effective than dredging systems where the sled can only loosen and scoop up debris while only moving in a single direction.

[0064] The bi-directional device can be the bi-directional sled as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/977,775, filed Oct. 31, 2022, entitled Bi-Directional Sled, the entire contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.

[0065] In one embodiment, the drive device further includes the first and second drive wheels 28 and 30, which are connected to the side panels 62 and are driven by the first and second motors 50 and 52 and 98, respectively. Each drive wheel 28 and 30 can be independently controlled so as to be capable moving the drive device forward, backward or in a rotational manner generally around an axis that extends through the control arm 34. In one embodiment, the first and second motors 50 and 52 are controlled by a controller 100 individually and remotely so as to move the drive device 26 along a chosen path. Thus, in one embodiment, the first and second drive wheels 28 and 30 are individually powered and controllable. Alternatively, or in addition to the remote control of the drive device 26, the motors 50 and 52 can be controlled by the electronic controller or central processing unit (CPU) 100 that moves the drive device 26 in a predetermined or preprogrammed manner. See for example, FIG. 10.

[0066] In other words, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the drive device 26 can include an electronic controller 100 that can be in remote communication with a control device 102 that is capable of sending drive instruction (wirelessly or via a wired connection) to instruct the drive wheels 28 and 30 or the motors 50 and 52 such that the drive wheels 28 and 30 turn in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction and/or at different rotational velocities. Moreover, the electronic controller 100 can be programmed to instruct the drive wheels 28 and 30 or the motors 50 and 52 to turn in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction and and/or at different rotational velocities at specific times and/or locations to move the drive device 26 along a predetermined path or in a predetermine manner. In this embodiment, the drive device can also include a storage system 101 and a wireless communicator 103.

[0067] In one embodiment, the controller 100 and the storage system 101 can be part of an SoC with memory. As can be understood an SoC (System-on-a-Chip) integrates memory blocks, including RAM (SRAM and DRAM), Rom and flash memory, along with other components, such as processors and peripherals onto a single chip. It is noted that the controller 100 and the storage system 101 can be any suitable controller and storage device capable of performing the functions described herein and can be separate, combined, integral or have any other suitable configuration.

[0068] In one embodiment, the electronic controller 100 includes one or more processor(s) for controlling the various operations of the system 10, as will be further described. In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic controller 100 is preferably a microcomputer (MPU) or central processing unit (CPU). The electronic controller 100 is formed of one or more semiconductor chips that are mounted on a circuit board. The term electronic control unit or electronic controller as used herein refers to hardware that executes a software program, and does not include a human being. The MPU or CPU can be one or more integrated circuits having firmware for causing the circuitry to complete the activities described herein. Of course, any number of other analog and/or digital components capable of performing the functionality described below can be provided in place of, or in conjunction with the electronic controller 100.

[0069] The storage system 101 is any memory or computer memory. Here, for example, the storage system 101 includes a transitory or non-transitory computer-readable medium with the sole exception of a transitory propagating signal. Thus, the storage system 101 can include nonvolatile memory and volatile memory, and can include at least one of an internal memory, or other type of memory devices such as a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a random access memory (RAM), a hard disk, a flash drive, etc. The storage system 101 stores various control processes or control programs as well as information or data used by the electronic controller 100. Thus, the storage system 101 is electrically connected to the electronic controller 100. In this way, the electronic controller 100 can retrieve data and access programs stored in the storage system 101, and can store data to the storage system 101. The storage system 101 preferably includes non-volatile memory that is configured to store various control programs (e.g., a program for a vehicle V control method, etc.), operational data, component identification data, etc.

[0070] In the illustrated embodiment, the storage system 101 is configured to store the travel path of the system 10 and/or the intended travel path of the system 10. M ore particularly, the storage system 101 is configured to store a plurality of preprogrammed patterns to ensure that the system operated in an efficient manner and covers the largest area for removal of the material M. Further the storage system 101 stores the actual path and routes in which the system 10 traversed to ensure the intended coverage is accurate.

[0071] The storage system 101 can also store non-transitory computer readable media (e.g., audio, image and video files), computer program instructions or software, preference information, system 10 profile information, and any other suitable data. The storage system 101 can be used to retain computer program instructions or code organized into one or more modules and written in any desired computer programming language. The processor of the electronic controller 100 can execute such computer program code by implementing one or more of the methods described herein.

[0072] Thus, in one procedure, the storage system 101 can include a preprogrammed path along the bottom B. The GPS location system 42 can provide accurate location information. Based on the preprogrammed path along the bottom B stored in the storage system 101 and the location information provided by the GPS location system 42, the controller 100 can operate the system to cover the preprogrammed path along the bottom B.

[0073] The wireless communicator 103 can be a hardware device capable of transmitting and/or receiving an analog or digital signal wirelessly via an antenna. The terms wireless communicator as used herein include a receiver, a transmitter, a transceiver, or a transmitter-receiver, for example. The wireless communication signals can be radio frequency (RF) signals, ultra-wide band communication signals, or Bluetooth communications or any other type of signal suitable for wireless communications as understood in the field. As can be understood, the wireless communicator can operate to transmit information over the air (OTA).

[0074] In another embodiment, the electronic controller 100 can be in communication with sensor 104 or a plurality of sensors 104 that are able to determine the location of obstacles or other objects in the fluid or material M relative to the drive device 26. The sensors 104 can use a camera, sonar, radar or any suitable device or method to determine location and or identify surroundings. In this embodiment, the electronic controller 100 is configured to operate and control the drive device 26 to avoid an obstacle or objects to safely and efficiently dredge the material M based on information from the sensors 104.

[0075] In one embodiment, the sensors 104 can be used in conjunction with the preprogrammed path and the GPS location system 42. In this embodiment, the controller 100 is configured to modify the preprogrammed path based on supplemental information provided by the sensors to avoid obstacles or other objects in the fluid or material M relative to the drive device 26.

[0076] In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 100 and the storage system 101 are disposed on the drive device 26. However, as can be understood, the controller 100 and the storage system 101 can be disposed in the control device 102 or in another location. The control device 102 can communicate with the controller 100 and/or the drive wheels 50 and 42 in any suitable manner. That is the control device 102 can be in electrical communication with the drive device 26 through a direct wire configuration. In such a configuration, electrical wiring can extend along the control arm 34 and to the drive device 26. The electrical wiring can be attached to the drive wheels 28 and 30 to operate the drive wheels as described herein.

[0077] In one embodiment, the control device 102 can include an electronic controller 120 that is the same or similar to electronic controller 100, a storage system 122 and a wireless communicator 124. The control device 102 can be operable to send a wireless signal to the drive device 26.

[0078] In one embodiment, the electronic controller 120 includes one or more processor(s) for controlling the various operations of the control device 102, as will be further described. In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic controller 120 is preferably a microcomputer (MPU) or central processing unit (CPU). The electronic controller 120 is formed of one or more semiconductor chips that are mounted on a circuit board. The term electronic control unit or electronic controller as used herein refers to hardware that executes a software program, and does not include a human being. The MPU or CPU can be one or more integrated circuits having firmware for causing the circuitry to complete the activities described herein. Of course, any number of other analog and/or digital components capable of performing the functionality described below can be provided in place of, or in conjunction with the electronic controller 120.

[0079] The storage system 122 is any memory or computer memory. Here, for example, the storage system 122 includes a transitory or non-transitory computer-readable medium with the sole exception of a transitory propagating signal. Thus, the storage system 122 can include nonvolatile memory and volatile memory, and can include at least one of an internal memory, or other type of memory devices such as a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a random access memory (RAM), a hard disk, a flash drive, etc. The storage system 101 stores various control processes or control programs as well as information or data used by the electronic controller 120. Thus, the storage system 122 is electrically connected to the electronic controller 120. In this way, the electronic controller 120 can retrieve data and access programs stored in the storage system 122, and can store data to the storage system 122. The storage system 122 preferably includes non-volatile memory that is configured to store various control programs (e.g., a program for a vehicle V control method, etc.), operational data, component identification data, etc.

[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, the storage system 122 can configured to store the travel path of the system 10 and/or the intended travel path of the system 10. More particularly, the storage system 122 can be configured to store a plurality of preprogrammed patterns to ensure that the system operated in an efficient manner and covers the largest area for removal of the material M. Further the storage system 122 stores the actual path and routes in which the system 10 traversed to ensure the intended coverage is accurate.

[0081] The storage system 122 can also store non-transitory computer readable media (e.g., audio, image and video files), computer program instructions or software, preference information, system 10 profile information, and any other suitable data. The storage system 122 can be used to retain computer program instructions or code organized into one or more modules and written in any desired computer programming language. The processor of the electronic controller 120 can execute such computer program code by implementing one or more of the methods described herein.

[0082] Thus, in one procedure, the storage system 122 can include a preprogrammed path along the bottom B. The GPS location system 42 can provide accurate location information. Based on the preprogrammed path along the bottom B stored in the storage system 122 and the location information provided by the GPS location system 42, the controller 120 can operate the system to cover the preprogrammed path along the bottom B.

[0083] The wireless communicator 124 can be a hardware device capable of transmitting and/or receiving an analog or digital signal wirelessly via an antenna. The terms wireless communicator as used herein include a receiver, a transmitter, a transceiver, or a transmitter-receiver, for example. The wireless communication signals can be radio frequency (RF) signals, ultra-wide band communication signals, or Bluetooth communications or any other type of signal suitable for wireless communications as understood in the field. As can be understood, the wireless communicator can operate to transmit information over the air (OTA).

[0084] As can be understood, the drive device 26 can be operated in any number of ways. For example, in one embodiment, the controller 120 can communicate with the controller 100 with the wireless communicators 103 and 124. The controller 120 can cause the drive device to follow a pattern or operate in a desired manner through wireless communication.

[0085] The drive wheels 28 and 30 are positioned relative to each other along a longitudinal line or axis A so improve direction control and stability. The drive wheels 28 and 30 are also positioned to enable the bi-directional sled 48 to dredge a sufficient amount of material M along the bottom B of the dredging area.

[0086] Each drive wheel 28 and 30 can include rubber nubs (or blocks) 106 on the circumferential outer perimeter surface thereof. The nubs improve gripping along the bottom B of the area to be dredged. That is, as can be understood, the bottom B of the area to be dredged may be a sludge or slurry or material M that causes the drive wheels 28 and 30 to sink or be partially submerged. The nubs 106 improve gripping or traction of the drive wheels 28 and 30, enabling improved movement of the drive device 26. In one embodiment, the drive wheels 28 and 30 include a plurality of moveable extensions 108 on the circumferential outer perimeter surface thereof. The movable extensions 108 can be retractable such that in one configuration the moveable extensions 108 extend at a distance that is the same or substantially the same as the nubs 106 (see FIG. 5) and in a second configuration the moveable extensions 108 extend significantly beyond the outer perimeter of the nubs 106 (see FIG. 6). The moveable extensions retract into a space within the drive wheels 28 and 30 to enable the first or retracted position. To move into the second or extended position, the moveable extensions 108 can be extended (and retracted) electrically, pneumatically or hydraulicly. Similarly to the nubs 106, the moveable extensions 108 are extensions configured to extend to provide traction for soft or loose surface. Moreover, the moveable extensions 108 can be extended into the extended position via remote control (e.g., the control device 102) or they can be automatically extended when the electronic controller 100 senses slippage of a respective drive wheel 28 and/or 30.

[0087] The moveable extensions 108 are configured to be generally disposed within openings or cavities in a respective drive wheel. When deployed the moveable extensions 108 can be deployed using any suitable manner. For example, as noted above, an electric motor can deploy the moveable extensions 108, a hydraulic motor can deploy the moveable extensions 108 and/or a pneumatic motor can deploy the moveable extensions 108.

[0088] The deployment of the moveable extensions 108 can also be manually achieved such that no motor is required and locked into place. The extensions 108 can be permanent, added on in a detachable manner or deployed and locked into position in any suitable manner.

[0089] The nubs 106 and moveable extensions 108 can be formed from a rubber or thermoplastic material. It is noted that the extensions and the nubs can be formed from any suitable material or a combination of materials. Moreover, the nubs 106 and moveable extensions 108 can be a rigid (or semirigid material or rigid material (e.g., metal or composite) covered in a softer material (e.g., rubber). The nubs 106 and moveable extensions 108 can be formed from the same materials or differing materials, and can be formed as needed and desired.

[0090] In operation the dredge system 10 is deployed in an area to be dredged. The float 20 is preferably positioned directly above the drive device 26 and the conduit 14 is connected to the outlet 24 of the float. The drive wheels 28 and 30 move the bi-directional sled 48 along the bottom B of the area to be dredged and the pump 12 sucks the material M into the bi-directional sled intake.

[0091] The drive device 26 can change directions causing the bi-directional sled 48 to move from the first position to the second position so as to continue dredging. The drive device 26 can then move along the bottom B of the area to be dredging easily and efficiently dredge material M.

[0092] As discussed above, the drive device 26 can move in a predetermined pattern that is programmed into the controller 100, move in a controlled manner with a remote control and/or be controlled in by sensors 108 and the controller 100 to efficiently move through the bottom B of the area to be dredged.

[0093] In one embodiment, the barge FB is self-propelled and moves along with the drive device 26 to ensure a proper distance between the pump 12 and the float 20. In another embodiment, the conduit 14 is of sufficient length to enable the barge FB to remain static during the dredging operation. In another embodiment, the pump 12 is disposed on the land and the system 10 does not include a barge FB. In this embodiment the conduit 14 is of sufficient length to enable the dredge system 10 to freely move within the area to be dredged. It is further noted that any of these embodiment can be combined to ensure the proper and efficient dredging occurs. For example, the conduit 14 can be of sufficient length to enable the barge FB to remain immobile for a certain area and/or time. But the barge FB can then be moved (either by itself or in another manner) to enable the dredge system 10 to dredge another area or portion of the area to be dredged.

[0094] In another embodiment, the barge FB is of sufficient size and the motors are sufficient capability to drag the pump 12 along with the dredge system 10.

[0095] The present disclosure provides a system that can efficiently and cost effectively dredge material M. As described herein, the system 10 can operate using a programmed path, operate remotely through the control device 102, operate using sensors 104 in an suitable manner or combination of these procedures.

[0096] In understanding the scope of the present invention, the term comprising and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps. The foregoing also applies to words having similar meanings such as the terms, including, having and their derivatives. Also, the terms part, section, portion, or element when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts. Also as used herein to describe the above embodiments, the following directional terms forward, rearward, above, vertical(ly), and below as well as any other similar directional terms refer to those directions of a dredging system. Accordingly, these terms, as utilized to describe the present invention should be interpreted relative to a dredge system.

[0097] The term configured as used herein to describe a component, section or part of a device includes structure that is constructed to carry out the desired function.

[0098] The terms of degree such as substantially, about and approximately as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed.

[0099] While only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, the size, shape, location or orientation of the various components can be changed as needed and/or desired. Components that are shown directly connected or contacting each other can have intermediate structures disposed between them. The functions of one element can be performed by two, and vice versa. The structures and functions of one embodiment can be adopted in another embodiment. It is not necessary for all advantages to be present in a particular embodiment at the same time. Every feature which is unique from the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, also should be considered a separate description of further inventions by the applicant, including the structural and/or functional concepts embodied by such features. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the embodiments according to the present invention are provided for illustration only, and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.