About this project

Abstract

The Floating Oil Skimmer utilizing a belt mechanism presents a revolutionary approach to environmental remediation, specifically targeting oil pollution in water bodies. Designed with an eco-friendly agenda, the skimmer operates efficiently to separate oil from water, maintaining the ecological balance in aquatic ecosystems. Through innovative engineering and thoughtful design choices, this device promises to address the increasing concerns of water pollution due to oil spills, supporting healthier ecosystems and advancing sustainable practices.

Introduction

Water pollution remains a significant global challenge, with oil spills being one of the most detrimental forms of contamination affecting aquatic environments. Traditional oil recovery methods have often proven inefficient, leading to prolonged recovery times and hazardous effects on wildlife. This project aims to develop a Floating Oil Skimmer using a belt mechanism, designed to provide a proactive and efficient solution to oil spill recovery. It not only addresses immediate spill situations but also assists in ongoing water body maintenance, promoting a cleaner and healthier aquatic environment.

Objectives

The primary objectives of this project include:

1. Designing an Efficient Skimming Mechanism: Create a belt system that effectively attracts and collects oil while repelling water for optimal pollution separation.
2. Environmental Sustainability: Design the skimmer to minimize disruption to aquatic life and operate quietly without harmful emissions.
3. Versatility: Ensure the skimmer can perform effectively in diverse water bodies and conditions, including oceans, rivers, and industrial sites.
4. User Friendly: Develop a user interface for monitoring and operating the skimming process with ease.
5. Wireless Operation: Implement wireless communication for remote control, enhancing user convenience.

Features of the Project

• Programming ESP32 microcontroller for controlling the belt system: Developing firmware that ensures seamless operation of the belt.
• Design and modeling of the belt mechanism in Fusion360: Utilizing advanced software for precise design and simulation.
• Building the belt mechanism with materials and components: Assembling the physical components into a functioning unit.
• Testing and calibrating the belt mechanism for efficient oil skimming: Rigorous testing processes to ensure optimal performance.
• Integration of the belt mechanism with the floating platform: Uniting design and function to create a cohesive system.
• Creating a user interface for monitoring and controlling the skimming process using Flutter: Developing an accessible UI for operation.
• Implementing wireless communication for remote operation with firebase backend: Establishing a reliable and efficient remote control interface.
• Performing various tests on the final prototype: Evaluating the device’s performance under various conditions.

Final Outputs

1. Hardware
2. Software
3. Mobile App
4. Complete codebase
5. 3D design and CAD file
6. Circuit Diagram

Components Used

Innovativeness / Social Relevance / Real World Application

The design of the Floating Oil Skimmer stands at the intersection of innovation and social responsibility. Current oil skimming technologies often lack efficiency or pose risks to fragile marine ecosystems. By leveraging a belt mechanism specifically designed to repel water while attracting and capturing oil, the Floating Oil Skimmer ensures minimal impact on the surrounding environment. The modular nature of the device allows for easy scalability, making it applicable not just for large-scale spills but also for localized incidents, thus broadening its utility in real-world scenarios.

Furthermore, the integration of wireless technology enables remote operations, which is particularly beneficial in hazardous environments where human presence can be minimized. This characteristic enhances both safety and efficiency in spill response situations. The project aligns with global environmental protection efforts and embodies a commitment to sustainability, making it relevant in discussions concerning climate change and biodiversity conservation.

Conclusion

The Floating Oil Skimmer using a belt mechanism represents a significant advancement in the field of environmental remediation. It combines innovative engineering with practical applications that pave the way toward more effective and environmentally friendly oil spill recovery methods. With its user-friendly interface, modular design, and operating efficiency, this skimmer is not only poised to provide immediate response capabilities but also supports ongoing efforts in maintaining the cleanliness of vital water bodies.

By addressing the urgent need for more efficient oil recovery solutions, the project not only contributes to cleaner environments but also serves as a model for future technological integrations in environmental conservation efforts. This Floating Oil Skimmer stands to redefine standards in oil pollution control and plays a crucial role in the stewardship of marine ecosystems.

Project Report: Floating Oil Skimmer Using Belt Mechanism

Introduction

This document provides a detailed update on the development phases of the Floating Oil Skimmer project using a belt mechanism. This innovative device is engineered to effectively remove oil from water surfaces via a continuous-loop belt that attracts and collects oil while repelling water. It represents a sustainable solution for environmental remediation, contributing to cleaner aquatic ecosystems.

Development Phases

Phase 1: Design and Modeling

Update: Completed 3D Modeling Date: March 25, 2024

We successfully completed the design and modeling phase of the belt mechanism using Fusion360. This critical step involved creating detailed 3D models that accurately represent the functionality and aesthetics of the belt system.

Key Highlights:

• The design ensures that all components fit together seamlessly, facilitating smooth operation during the skimming process.
• Access the design via the following link: Fusion360 Design Link.

Phase 2: Building the Structure

Update: Building the structure of the floating oil skimmer project Date: March 22, 2024

During this phase, our focus was on constructing the framework for the belt mechanism. This structure is essential for supporting the device's components.

Key Activities:

• Designed and modeled the belt mechanism.
• Constructed the frame using sturdy materials.

Challenges Faced:

• Sourcing high-quality materials within the allocated budget.
• Ensuring precise alignment of components for efficient performance.

Phase 3: Circuit Design

Update: Created Circuit Diagram Date: March 23, 2024

We successfully completed the circuit diagram for the Floating Oil Skimmer. This diagram outlines the integration of various components, ensuring a clear representation of how the system will function.

Key Components Included:

• ESP32 DevKit: The main controller for managing operations of the belt mechanism.
• L298N Motor Driver Module: Controls the direction and speed of the motors.
• Relay Modules: Manage high power devices, ensuring safe operation.
• Power Supply: Incorporates a 300W DC-DC buck converter to step down voltages as required.

Phase 4: Building the Belt Mechanism

Update: Fixed Belt mechanism to the base Date: April 13, 2024

Significant progress was made in assembling the belt mechanism with the necessary hardware components, ensuring the system's functionality.

Key Activities:

• Successfully assembled the belt mechanism.
• Performed initial testing to ensure functionality.

Phase 5: Motor and Pump Integration

Update: Attached DC Motors and Water Pump Dates:

• April 13, 2024: Attached two DC motors for movement.
• April 13, 2024: Attached a 6V-12V Diaphragm Based Water Pump.

During this phase, two DC motors were attached for directional movement and a water pump was integrated to facilitate oil skimming.

Additional Sequential Steps:

• Connected relays for the motors used in pumping and filtering oil from the water.
• Verified water pump functionality, ensuring flow rates were appropriate for the oil skimming process.

Phase 6: User Interface Development

Update: User Interface for Controls Date: April 2, 2024

We completed the development of the user interface, which allows for monitoring and controlling the skimming process using Flutter.

Implemented Features:

• Added buttons to control the pump's operation.
• Integrated a progress meter for monitoring the skimming process.

Phase 7: Testing and Final Adjustments

Updates:

• Tested Prototypes: The completed prototype was rigorously tested for performance efficiencies, including the belt operation, motor functionality, and skimmer effectiveness.
• Ongoing Refinements: Integrating feedback from testing phases into iterative improvements to enhance performance and usability.

Conclusion

The Floating Oil Skimmer Using Belt Mechanism project is a significant advancement toward effective oil spill remediation technology. Through the detailed phases from initial design to testing, this document serves as a comprehensive guide for future development. With the steps outlined in this report, subsequent teams and individuals can replicate the project efficiently.

We continue to refine our approach towards building a robust floating oil skimmer, ultimately aiming to create more sustainable and effective methods for environmental protection. The commitment to environmental stewardship is at the heart of our project’s mission, and we look forward to contributing positively to aquatic ecosystems through innovative engineering solutions.