Patents by Inventor Vern R. Scovell

Vern R. Scovell has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 5094744
    Abstract: An oil skimming apparatus is provided for collecting oil from the surface of a body of water. The apparatus may be retrofitted to a standard ocean going vessel. The vessel tows a U-shaped boom comprised of a floating oil boom on each side of the vessel and a U-shaped vertical apron aft of the stern of the vessel. A vertical weir is provided forward of the apron to create an enclosed region where oil may collect. A floating pump intake is tethered within the collection region with a pump transferring oil from the intake to tanks within the vessel. A rigid ramp extends an angle downwardly from the stern of the vessel to the lower edge of the apron. The lower edges of the apron and the weir are sealed to the surface of the ramp providing an enclosed containment region. Rigid side skirts extend downwardly along each side of the ramp to form a deflection means for diverting turbulence and boat wake beneath and beyond the collection region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1992
    Inventor: Vern R. Scovell