Multi-substrate subtidal sampler
Inventors
SORENSEN, KARA C. • Rivera, Ignacio D. • Chadwick, Bart • Katz, Chuck • Sosa, Cassandra
Assignees
Publication Number
US-11054345-B2
Publication Date
2021-07-06
Expiration Date
2039-07-17
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Abstract
A method for collecting samples of one or more substrate can include the steps of: A) providing a sample collection tube having a first end and a second end, B) providing a cap pivotable about the first end and a footplate pivotable about the second end, C) biasing the cap and the footplate closed so that a watertight compartment can be established inside the tube; D) forcing the cap and the footplate open by attaching the cap and footplate to a releasable fastener, E) positioning the sample collection tube into the one or more substrate to collect the sample, followed by F) releasing the cap and footplate from the releasable fastener so that a watertight compartment is established inside the tube when the cap and the footplate are closed.
Core Innovation
The invention concerns a multi-substrate subtidal sampler (SUBS) device and method for collecting samples of one or more substrates from subtidal habitats in a single sampling process. The device comprises a collection tube with a cap pivotable about one end and a footplate pivotable about the opposite end. Both the cap and footplate are biased closed to establish a watertight compartment inside the collection tube. They can be forced open by attachment to a releasable fastener, allowing the tube to be positioned into substrates for sample collection, and then selectively released so the cap and footplate close and re-establish the watertight compartment to retain the samples.
The problem being solved relates to deficiencies in current protocols and devices for subtidal sampling of benthic macroalgae and other substrates. Existing methods are mostly qualitative or limited to shallow intertidal zones, leaving large subtidal areas unmeasured or inadequately sampled. Constraints include visibility limitations, need for boats or divers, use of sampling tools that do not maintain watertight samples, and vessel size or depth restrictions. There is a need for a standardized, quantitative, reproducible device and method to collect multiple substrates including sediments, microalgae biomass, benthic algae, and water from subtidal zones in one sample.
Claims Coverage
The patent includes several independent claims describing both the device and method for subtidal substrate sampling. The main inventive features relate to the structural elements enabling watertight sampling, the releasable fastener mechanism, the triggering system, and the biasing of cap and footplate.
Device with biased cap and footplate forming a watertight compartment
A collection tube having a first and second end with a cap pivotable about the first end and a footplate pivotable about the second end. The cap and footplate are biased closed so that when closed they establish a watertight compartment inside the tube.
Releasable fastener allowing simultaneous opening and closing of cap and footplate
A releasable fastener configured to releasably attach to both cap and footplate at the same attachment point, allowing the cap and footplate to be forced open when attached and released to bias closed positions to seal the tube.
Trigger line and trigger line guide for remote activation
A trigger line coupled to the releasable fastener and configured to be pulled independently by the user to release the fastener, and a trigger line guide configured to position the trigger line so that force applied is transferred efficiently to a component of the fastener (e.g., along the center axis of a pin) enabling remote activation.
Pole for submerging and raising the device
A pole coupled to the device for controlled submersion into and removal from the substrate, allowing the user to manipulate the sampler from a distance.
Stop mounted on collection tube to regulate sampling depth
A stop mounted externally on the collection tube configured to contact sediment-substrate during submersion to control the sampling depth and trigger closing of the cap and footplate when the trigger line is pulled.
Arm with spring mechanism for maintaining footplate position
An arm coupled to the footplate including a spring configured to bias the footplate closed and a mechanism involving hinged rigid members that maintain the footplate in open or closed positions, allowing controlled movement of the footplate during sampling.
Stand to assist with loading and provide resistance during operation
A stand designed to hold the device, providing sufficient resistance to allow the user to force the cap and footplate open and bias them closed prior to sampling, and allowing removal of the device for insertion into substrate.
Overall, the claims cover a multi-substrate subtidal sampling device and method with structural features and mechanisms enabling quantitative, consistent, and watertight collection of samples in subtidal environments. The inventive aspects focus on the interaction of the collection tube, hinged cap and footplate biased closed, a releasable fastener with remote trigger, an arm spring mechanism, and supporting structures such as a pole and stand.
Stated Advantages
Provides a repeatable, quantifiable method and device for collecting multiple substrates consistently in a single sampling process.
Enables watertight containment of samples including sediments, biomass, and water, improving sample integrity.
Allows simultaneous release and closure of the cap and footplate for faster, consistent, and easier operation.
Facilitates remote activation of the release mechanism via a trigger line and guide ensuring efficient force transfer.
The adjustable sediment hard stop controls sampling depth increasing versatility across different substrates and environments.
The device can be used from small vessels like kayaks due to its design including a stand and pole for operation.
Documented Applications
Quantitative and consistent collection of sediment, microalgae biomass, benthic algae, and water substrates from subtidal habitats.
Biomass and sediment sampling in estuaries and subtidal zones where conventional intertidal protocols are insufficient.
Sampling in waterbodies with subtidal benthic macroalgae for environmental monitoring and biomass assessment.
Use from small craft such as kayaks or small boats, enabling subtidal substrate sampling in various depth conditions.
Collection of substrates for bulk chemistry analysis including total nutrients and organic carbon assessments.
Sample collection for benthic chlorophyll-a and macroalgae studies in aquatic environments.
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