Method and apparatus for mining nodules from beneath the sea

Details Method and apparatus for mining nodules from beneath the sea Method and apparatus for mining nodules from beneath the sea

1978-01-13

1980-11-04

Crowder, Clifford D.

Excavating

Peat excavators

37 56, 37 58, 37DIG8, 114313, 114332, 114338, E02F 388

Patent

active

042311713

ABSTRACT:
Polymetallic nodules are collected by means of a plurality of self-propelled vehicles which move upwards and downwards between the sea floor and a surface platform under the action of excess ballast which is partially and progressively released as the vehicle approaches the bottom. The vehicles are propelled along the sea floor by means of at least two supporting units each having at least one helical propulsion fin, the remainder of the ballast being released in order to return the vehicles upwards for docking, unloading and energy-recharging in the surface platform.

REFERENCES:
patent: 3169500 (1965-02-01), Cousteau et al.
patent: 3812922 (1974-05-01), Stechler
patent: 4010560 (1977-03-01), Diggs
patent: 4035022 (1977-07-01), Hahlbrock et al.
Lockwood, George S., "Engineering Aspects of Mineral Recovery from the Ocean Floor"; Mining Engineering, Aug., 1964; pp. 45-49.

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