Integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter

Abstract

The application provides an integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter bed, which comprises a filter bed body, a foam discharge assembly and an oxygen increasing assembly, the filter bed body has a containing space, the boundary of the containing space is in the shape of a circular segment in a vertical plane, a first arc segment of the circular segment is at the top of the containing space, and a second arc segment is at the bottom of the containing space, the oxygen increasing assembly is arranged corresponding to the second arc segment, and the foam discharge assembly is arranged corresponding to the first arc segment, bubbles generated by the oxygen increasing assembly can enter the containing space and float upwards to generate foam in the containing space, and the foam discharge assembly can collect the generated foam and discharge the foam into a target space. The oxygen increasing, biological filtration and protein separation functions are organically combined to realize synergistic effect, and high integration is realized. The design of in-situ treatment does not need water pump extraction and mechanical filtration, water treatment is directly performed in a breeding pond, energy consumption and land occupation are reduced, system maintenance and management are simplified, and the efficiency and effect of water treatment are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of aquaculture water treatment technology, specifically relating to an integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter. Background Technology

[0002] Aquaculture is a vital part of the global food supply chain, and its rapid development is driven by increasing demand for high-quality seafood. However, the increased density of aquaculture has brought challenges to water quality management, with the accumulation of ammonia nitrogen, organic matter, and suspended particulate matter (such as feces and leftover feed) being major issues. These accumulations lead to water quality deterioration, increase the risk of disease in farmed fish, and ultimately affect yield and quality.

[0003] To maintain good water quality, existing aquaculture water treatment technologies typically include the following equipment:

[0004] Protein skimmers: These aerators generate a large number of bubbles, which adsorb suspended particulate matter, grease, and some large organic molecules (such as proteins and fats) from the water, separating them from the water. They typically require independent operation, occupying considerable space and energy, and necessitate significant electricity to maintain bubble generation and water flow. They are primarily used in marine environments, but also have applications in freshwater aquaculture systems.

[0005] Biofilters: Biofilters use microorganisms (such as nitrifying and denitrifying bacteria) to convert harmful substances in water, such as ammonia nitrogen and nitrite, into harmless substances such as nitrate or nitrogen gas. Biofilter systems are typically designed as independent filtration units, requiring a long water contact time, a large surface area, and an ample oxygen supply, as well as a complex piping and water flow control system.

[0006] Oxygenation equipment: Oxygenation equipment increases the dissolved oxygen content in the water, ensuring that farmed fish receive sufficient oxygen to maintain healthy growth. Common oxygenation methods include (air / pure oxygen) aeration and liquid oxygen dissolution.

[0007] Although the aforementioned devices each play a role in improving water quality, the existing technology has the following main drawbacks:

[0008] Decentralized equipment leads to high energy consumption: Protein skimmers, biofilters, and aeration equipment are typically decentralized and operate independently, each requiring its own power source and control system, resulting in high energy consumption. Furthermore, the decentralized equipment layout necessitates more piping connections, increasing system complexity and maintenance costs.

[0009] Large footprint: Independent protein skimmers, biofilters, and aeration equipment occupy a significant amount of space, which is particularly uneconomical for small and medium-sized aquaculture farms. The space requirement also limits the flexibility of farm layout. Traditional protein skimmers and filters are bulky and expensive, making them unsuitable for small home aquariums.

[0010] Maintenance complexity: Due to the variety of equipment and complex connections, the maintenance and management of the overall system becomes more cumbersome. Failure of any piece of equipment can affect the operation of the entire water treatment system, increasing operational difficulty and costs.

[0011] Low efficiency: Because the equipment operates separately, the synergistic effect between the systems is difficult to fully realize. For example, switching the water flow between the protein skimmer and the biofilter may reduce treatment efficiency. In addition, individual aeration equipment cannot effectively and fully dissolve oxygen into the aquaculture water, resulting in a significant waste of energy.

[0012] In order to at least partially solve the aforementioned technical problems, the present invention is proposed. Summary of the Invention

[0013] Therefore, the present invention provides an integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter that can overcome the technical problems of dispersed equipment, high energy consumption, large footprint, complex maintenance, and low efficiency in related technologies.

[0014] To address the aforementioned problems, this invention provides an integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter, comprising a filter bed body, a foam discharge component, and an oxygenation component. The filter bed body has a accommodating space for holding biological filter media. Projected onto a vertical plane, the accommodating space has an oval-shaped boundary, with a first arc segment at the top and a second arc segment at the bottom. The oxygenation component is positioned corresponding to the second arc segment, and the foam discharge component is positioned corresponding to the first arc segment. Bubbles generated by the oxygenation component can enter the accommodating space and rise to generate foam within it. The foam discharge component can collect and discharge the generated foam into a target space.

[0015] In some embodiments, the oxygenation assembly includes an aeration pipe and a bubble diffuser connected to the outlet of the aeration pipe, the bubble diffuser being located within the connection area of ​​the second arc segment and the vertical segment of the oval shape, and within the accommodating space.

[0016] In some embodiments, the oxygenation assembly includes at least two sets, each set containing a bubble diffuser that produces bubbles of different diameters.

[0017] In some embodiments, the foam discharge assembly includes a foam collection hood that is sealed to the outer wall surface of the first arc segment, the top of the foam collection hood having a discharge port, a foam discharge pipe being detachably connected to the discharge port, and the outlet of the foam discharge pipe being located within the target space.

[0018] In some embodiments, the foam collection cover is an inverted cone shape, with the large opening of the inverted cone connected to the first arc segment; or, the foam collection cover is an hourglass shape, with one end face of the hourglass shape connected to the first arc segment and the outlet formed on the other end face.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first arc segment has a first through hole penetrating the inside and outside of the accommodating space, and the second arc segment has a second through hole penetrating the inside and outside of the accommodating space, wherein the diameter of the first through hole is larger than the diameter of the second through hole.

[0020] In some embodiments, the integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter further includes a water pump assembly, which is configured corresponding to the second arc segment. The water pump of the water pump assembly is directed toward the oxygenation assembly and is parallel to the tangent of the apex of the second arc segment.

[0021] In some embodiments, the integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter also includes a base, which is supported on the bottom of the filter body and forms a water flow channel between the second arc segment and the base, and the water pump is located in the water flow channel.

[0022] In some embodiments, the filter bed is made of a light-shielding material, or the outer surface of the filter bed has a light-shielding layer.

[0023] In some embodiments, the foam containment volume of the foam discharge assembly is adjustable.

[0024] The integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter provided by this invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0025] The air bubbles generated by the aeration component are introduced into the containment space to oxygenate the water, thereby increasing the dissolved oxygen content of the water to be filtered. This ensures that farmed fish receive sufficient oxygen for healthy growth, while also ensuring that microorganisms receive enough oxygen to maintain their biodegradation function. As the bubbles rise, their surfaces adsorb suspended particulate matter, grease, and some large organic molecules (such as proteins and fats) in the water, achieving protein separation. Utilizing the principle of bubble flotation, the foam generated at the top of the filter bed is separated and discharged by the foam discharge component. This solves the problem of poor separation efficiency in traditional foam diffusion protein separators in freshwater aquaculture water treatment due to small bubbles and poor foam generation. The rising of the bubbles also propels the flow of water and biological filter media. Guided by the oval-shaped filter bed body, the biological filter media is more evenly dispersed within the containment space, enhancing water circulation (i.e., the oval-shaped filter bed body is conducive to enhancing the water circulation effect and the uniform dispersion effect of the biological filter media), ensuring the efficient degradation function of microorganisms. The biological filter bed of this invention integrates oxygenation, biological filtration and protein separation functions into one device, organically combining these functions to achieve synergistic effects and a high degree of integration. The in-situ treatment design eliminates the need for water pump extraction and mechanical filtration, allowing water treatment to be carried out directly in the aquaculture pond. This in-situ, integrated design not only reduces energy consumption and floor space but also simplifies system maintenance and management, significantly improving the efficiency and effect of water treatment. It is particularly suitable for small and medium-sized aquaculture farms and home ornamental fish farming, enhancing the economic benefits and sustainability of aquaculture. Attached Figure Description

[0026] To more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. The drawings described below are merely exemplary, and those skilled in the art can derive other embodiments based on the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a front view of the integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter bed in an embodiment of the present invention (the figure has been cross-sectionally processed to show the biological filter media inside the biofilter bed);

[0028] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Rear view;

[0029] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter bed in an embodiment of the present invention from a different perspective.

[0030] Figure 4This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter bed in an embodiment of the present invention from another perspective.

[0031] The annotations in the attached figures are explained as follows:

[0032] 1. Filter bed body; 11. Biological filter media; 12. First through hole; 13. Second through hole; 21. Aeration pipe; 22. Bubble diffuser; 31. Foam collection hood; 32. Foam discharge pipe; 41. Water pump; 42. Water pump power supply; 5. Base. Detailed Implementation

[0033] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit the present invention or its application or use. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0034] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by directional terms such as "front, back, up, down, left, right", "horizontal, vertical, horizontal" and "top, bottom" is generally based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention; the directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0035] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "on top of," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90° or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0036] Furthermore, it should be noted that the use of terms such as "first" and "second" to define components is merely for the purpose of distinguishing the corresponding components. Unless otherwise stated, the above terms have no special meaning and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this invention.

[0037] See Figures 1 to 4 As shown in the figure, according to an embodiment of the present invention, an integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter is provided, including a filter body 1, a foam discharge component (not labeled in the figure), and an oxygenation component (not labeled in the figure). The filter body 1 has a accommodating space (not labeled in the figure) for accommodating biological filter media 11. In a specific embodiment, the aforementioned biological filter media 11 is K1 biological filter media (φ = 10 mm) or K0.75 biological filter media (φ = 7.5 mm). Projected onto a vertical plane, the boundary of the accommodating space is oval, and the first arc segment of the oval is located at the top of the accommodating space (also...). The first arc segment is located at the top of the filter bed body 1, and the second arc segment is located at the bottom of the containing space (i.e., the bottom of the filter bed body 1). The oxygenation component is correspondingly arranged with the second arc segment, and the foam discharge component is correspondingly arranged with the first arc segment. The bubbles (specifically air bubbles) generated by the oxygenation component can enter the containing space and float to the surface within the containing space to generate foam. The foam discharge component can collect the generated foam and discharge it into the target space. The aforementioned target space is, for example, a collection tank or other target container structure, which facilitates regular cleaning. It is understood that the biological filter media 11 can provide surface area for microbial attachment and growth. The aforementioned oval shape is specifically... Figure 1 As shown for reference, it includes the aforementioned first arc segment and second arc segment, with two parallel, spaced vertical segments connecting the first and second arc segments. In a specific embodiment, the aforementioned first and second arc segments are semi-circular arc segments, thus forming a structure similar to a circular running track. It is understood that, in order to ensure the circulation and exchange of water and the separation and discharge of generated foam, both the aforementioned first and second arc segments are constructed with through holes penetrating the interior and exterior of the aforementioned accommodating space. Specifically, the first arc segment has a first through hole 12 penetrating the interior and exterior of the accommodating space, and the second arc segment... The section has a second through hole 13 that extends through the inside and outside of the containment space. The diameter of the first through hole 12 is larger than that of the second through hole 13. The larger diameter of the first through hole 12 is used to efficiently separate and discharge the generated foam, while the smaller diameter of the second through hole 13 is used to filter large particles of impurities from the water entering the containment space, preventing them from clogging the biological filter media 11 and reducing the degradation effect. In a specific embodiment, the diameter of each first through hole 12 is 3 mm and the spacing between the holes is 1 mm, and the diameter of each second through hole 13 is 2 mm and the spacing between the holes is 1 mm.

[0038] In this technical solution, bubbles generated by the aeration component are introduced into the containment space, thereby achieving the purpose of oxygenation of the water in the containment space, increasing the dissolved oxygen content of the water to be filtered, ensuring that farmed fish obtain sufficient oxygen to maintain healthy growth, and ensuring that microorganisms obtain sufficient oxygen to maintain their biodegradation function; during the rising process of the generated bubbles, the surface of the bubbles adsorbs suspended particulate dirt, oil and some large molecular organic matter (such as protein and fat) in the water, achieving the purpose of protein separation; using the principle of bubble flotation, the foam generated in the top area of ​​the filter bed 1 is separated and discharged under the action of the foam discharge component, which can solve the problem of low separation effect caused by small bubbles and poor foam generation in traditional foam diffusion protein separators in freshwater aquaculture water treatment; the rising of the bubbles generates a driving flow for the water and the biological filter media 11. Under the guidance of the oval-shaped filter bed body 1, the biological filter media 11 is more evenly dispersed within the containment space, enhancing water circulation (that is, the oval-shaped filter bed body 1 is conducive to enhancing the water circulation effect and the uniform dispersion effect of the biological filter media 11), ensuring the efficient degradation function of microorganisms; the biological filter bed of the present invention integrates oxygenation, biological filtration and protein separation functions into one device, organically combining oxygenation, biological filtration and protein separation functions to achieve synergistic effect and high integration. The in-situ treatment design eliminates the need for water pump extraction and mechanical filtration, and water treatment is carried out directly in the aquaculture pond. This in-situ integrated design not only reduces energy consumption and floor space, but also simplifies system maintenance and management, significantly improving the efficiency and effect of water treatment. It is particularly suitable for small and medium-sized aquaculture farms and home ornamental fish farming, improving the economic benefits and sustainability of aquaculture.

[0039] It should be noted that, in practical use, the biofilter of the present invention can be directly placed in the water body of the aquaculture pond awaiting filtration, thereby achieving the purpose of in-situ protein separation.

[0040] It is understandable that uneven dispersion and poor activity of the biological filter media 11 will lead to: (1) reduced utilization of active surface area. The key function of the biological filter media 11 is to provide surface area for nitrifying bacteria (such as Nitrosomonas and Nitrobacterium) to attach and reproduce. If the biological filter media 11 is unevenly distributed, some areas of the biological filter media 11 will not have sufficient contact with the water flow, thus wasting the treatment capacity of the filter bed; (2) insufficient nitrification reaction. In areas where the biological filter media 11 is not active or unevenly dispersed, or even piled up, dead zones will be formed. These dead zones may have hypoxic or even anaerobic environments, leading to excessive reproduction of heterotrophic bacteria or anaerobic reactions, thereby causing ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) and nitrite (NO2) to increase. - Accumulation of these substances may release harmful substances (such as hydrogen sulfide).

[0041] In some embodiments, the aeration assembly includes an aeration pipe 21 and a bubble diffuser 22 connected to the outlet of the aeration pipe 21, the bubble diffuser 22 being located within the connection region between the second arc segment and the vertical segment of the oval shape (e.g., Figure 1 As shown, at the position where the vertical segment on one side connects to the second arc segment, and within the accommodating space. The aforementioned bubble diffuser 22 is specifically an air stone, and the aforementioned oxygenation component specifically also includes an external oxygen pump (not shown in the figure), the oxygen outlet of the aforementioned oxygen pump being connected to the inlet of the aeration pipe 21.

[0042] In this technical solution, the bubble diffuser 22 is placed in the connection area between the second arc segment and the vertical segment connected to one end, so as to realize unilateral aeration. The unilateral aeration method can further enhance water circulation and oxygen supply, and ensure the efficient operation of biological filtration.

[0043] In some embodiments, the oxygenation assembly includes at least two sets, each set of which contains a bubble diffuser 22 that produces bubbles with different diameters, thereby realizing multi-microbubble technology.

[0044] In this technical solution, the larger diameter bubbles of different diameters promote the circulation of water and biological filter media 11, thereby improving the biological filtration effect, while the smaller diameter bubbles can increase the amount of oxygen dissolved in the water, thereby improving the oxygenation effect of the water.

[0045] In some embodiments, the foam discharge assembly includes a foam collection cover 31 that is sealed to the outer wall of the first arc segment (e.g., by welding, adhesive, or other methods). The top of the foam collection cover 31 has a discharge port (not shown in the figure), and a foam discharge pipe 32 is detachably connected to the discharge port. The outlet of the foam discharge pipe 32 is located within the target space. In one specific embodiment, the flow diameter of the foam discharge pipe 32 is φ = 4-6 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the height of the aforementioned foam discharge pipe 32 is adjustable vertically to adapt to the water level and regulate the protein separation effect.

[0046] In one specific embodiment, the foam collection hood 31 is an inverted cone shape, with the large opening of the inverted cone connected to the first arc segment. In this way, the gradually narrowing structure of the inverted cone can be used to achieve rapid and efficient separation of the generated foam and further discharge it.

[0047] Alternatively, in another specific embodiment, the foam collection hood 31 is hourglass-shaped, that is, a structure in which the apexes (i.e., the small diameter) of an inverted cone and a regular cone meet. One end face of the hourglass shape is connected to the first arc segment, and the outlet is constructed on the other end face. In this way, the aforementioned hourglass shape can be used to create a Venturi effect, further improving the foam separation efficiency. Specifically, the foam flow velocity will increase at the small flow diameter of the hourglass shape, i.e., the Venturi effect. The increased flow velocity will push more suspended particles and large organic molecules to the water surface, thereby improving the separation efficiency.

[0048] In some embodiments, the integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter further includes a water pump assembly (not labeled in the figure), which is arranged corresponding to the second arc segment. The water outlet direction of the water pump 41 of the water pump assembly faces the oxygenation assembly and is parallel to the tangent of the apex of the second arc segment. The aforementioned tangent at the apex of the arc segment passes through the apex of the second arc segment (see [reference]). Figure 1 The indicated direction (i.e., the straight line tangent to the second arc segment in the middle of the arc base) is shown in the figure. See [link / reference] for details. Figure 1 As shown.

[0049] In this technical solution, the pump assembly pumps in untreated water while simultaneously moving the biological filter media 11, and promotes the discharge of some of the water treated by the filter bed 1, thus achieving continuous water exchange. Specifically, the aforementioned water pump 41 can be a low-power, low-flow water pump. It is understood that the aforementioned water pump 41 has a corresponding water pump power supply 42, which is electrically connected to the water pump 41 via a cable.

[0050] In some embodiments, the integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter further includes a base 5, which is supported at the bottom of the filter body 1 and forms a water flow channel (not indicated in the figure) between the second arc segment and the base 5. The water pump 41 is located within the water flow channel. See details. Figure 3 As shown, the aforementioned base 5 is supported under the second arc segment of the filter bed body 1. The oxygenation component and the water pump 41 are located at the inlet and outlet ends of the water flow channel, respectively. Thus, when the water pump 41 is running, a portion of the untreated water it pumps enters the containment space through the second through hole 13 on the second arc segment, enhancing the circulation and flow of the water and biological filter media 11. On the other hand, it replaces the biodegraded water in the containment space with the water in the external water body, improving the treatment efficiency and effect of the entire water area.

[0051] In some embodiments, the filter bed body 1 is made of a light-shielding material (such as stainless steel, PP, PVC, etc.), or the outer surface of the filter bed body 1 has a light-shielding layer. This can provide a normal production environment for nitrifying bacteria, and on the other hand, can prevent light from shining into the biofilter bed and causing green algae.

[0052] In some embodiments, the foam holding volume of the foam discharge component is adjustable to accommodate different aeration rates, foam generation rates, etc., preventing undue water loss. The aforementioned adjustable foam holding volume can be achieved in various ways. For example, the foam collection hood 31 can be designed as a height-adjustable structure (it can be adjusted manually or automatically), or the height of the foam discharge pipe 32 can be adjusted as described above.

[0053] The working process of the integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter of the present invention is further described below in a specific embodiment:

[0054] ①Oxygenation stage

[0055] The high-efficiency oxygenation device (i.e., the aforementioned oxygenation component, hereinafter the same) is started, and the air pump (i.e., the aforementioned oxygen pump, hereinafter the same) delivers oxygen from the air into the water; the bubble diffuser distributes the bubbles evenly in the water body to ensure the full dissolution and utilization of oxygen.

[0056] The oxygenation device is closely integrated with the protein separator (i.e., the aforementioned foam discharge component, hereinafter the same) and the biological filter bed (i.e., the aforementioned filter bed body 1 and the biological filter media 11 therein) to form an integrated oxygenation system, which further improves oxygen dissolution and utilization and ensures water treatment effect.

[0057] ② Biological filtration stage

[0058] The unilateral pores (i.e., the aforementioned bubble diffuser, hereinafter the same) allow water to enter the biological filter bed from one side. The oval structure of the filter bed layer facilitates thorough biological filtration. The rising bubbles and the propulsive action of the water flow enhance water circulation and oxygen supply, ensuring highly efficient biological filtration. Microorganisms attach and grow on the surface of the filter media, decomposing harmful substances such as ammonia nitrogen and nitrite in the water, converting them into harmless substances (including nitrates (NO3)). - Substances such as nitrogen (N2), carbon dioxide (CO2), and water (H2O).

[0059] ③ Protein separation stage

[0060] The aeration device at the bottom generates a large number of small bubbles. After passing through the biological filter bed, the bubbles adhere to suspended particulate matter and large organic molecules suspended in the water, and rise to the bubble generation chamber (i.e., the aforementioned foam collection hood 31, hereinafter the same) to form larger bubbles, which facilitates the efficient discharge of foam. Suspended particulate matter and large organic molecules in the water are adhered to by the bubbles and float to the surface of the water, forming foam in the foam generation chamber. The foam is collected in the collection tank by the collection pipe of the separation chamber (i.e., the aforementioned foam discharge pipe 32, hereinafter the same), which facilitates regular cleaning.

[0061] In another specific embodiment, the integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter of the present invention integrates a control panel and intelligent sensors to monitor the system's operating status and water quality parameters in real time. Users can set parameters and perform system maintenance through the control panel to ensure stable operation and efficient processing of the equipment.

[0062] Specifically, an intelligent dissolved oxygen (DO) sensor is installed within the integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter of this invention. This sensor monitors the oxygen content in the water in real time and automatically adjusts the oxygenation rate (e.g., activating and enhancing aeration when the oxygen level falls below a certain value (5 mg / L)). Water quality parameters are monitored by sensors for dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), nitrite (NO2-), and temperature, automatically adjusting the aeration device and water pump flow rate accordingly. The system also monitors foam generation in real time and automatically adjusts the height of the foam separation chamber to achieve optimal separation. In practical use, during the oxygenation stage: the oxygenation device is activated, and the oxygenation rate is automatically adjusted based on the oxygen content in the water; during the biofiltration stage: the intelligent filter bed control system automatically adjusts the aeration device and water pump flow rate based on water quality parameters; during the protein separation stage: the intelligent separation control system automatically adjusts the working status of the foam generation chamber and the separation chamber to improve separation efficiency. The intelligent control system (i.e., the system comprised of the aforementioned control panel and intelligent sensors) achieves automated management and monitoring of the equipment, reducing manual intervention, improving system reliability and stability, and ensuring stable and efficient water treatment through real-time monitoring of water quality parameters.

[0063] The integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter provided by this invention overcomes many shortcomings of existing technologies by integrating oxygenation, biofiltration, and protein separation functions, and has significant technical effects and advantages. The following are the main advantages and effects of this invention compared to existing technologies:

[0064] (1) Reduce energy consumption, lower costs, and improve efficiency.

[0065] Integrated Design: Protein separation, biofiltration, and oxygenation are integrated into a single device for unified management. Compared to traditional decentralized systems, the three functional units share the same power source and control system, significantly reducing energy consumption. For example, a traditional decentralized system consumes 216 kWh per month (based on 100W per unit) and requires a water pump, while the integrated "integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter" system eliminates the need for a water pump, consuming only 72 kWh per month – a reduction of over 70%.

[0066] Synergistic effect: Through integrated design, synergistic effects are achieved between systems, improving the overall efficiency of water treatment. The close integration of protein separation and biofiltration enhances the decomposition and conversion efficiency of organic matter.

[0067] (2) Saves land area

[0068] Compact Structure: The integrated design significantly reduces the equipment's footprint, making it particularly suitable for small and medium-sized aquaculture farms and home aquariums, optimizing the utilization of space in farms and homes. For example, a traditional decentralized system occupies 7 square meters (1 square meter for aeration equipment, 5 square meters for biofilters, and 1 square meter for protein skimmers), while the integrated system occupies only about 1 square meter, reducing the footprint by more than 80%.

[0069] Reduced piping connections: The reduced number of piping connections between devices lowers installation complexity and maintenance costs. For example, a traditional system has a total piping length of 10 meters, while the integrated system requires no piping connections (except for the thin flexible hoses for oxygenation and foam collection pipes) and no additional power.

[0070] (3) Simplify maintenance and management

[0071] Integrated maintenance: The integrated design reduces the number of devices requiring independent maintenance, simplifying the system's daily management and maintenance. Through optimized design, biofiltration and protein separation operate automatically after aeration is activated, requiring only one integrated device to be maintained, thus reducing operational complexity and failure rate.

[0072] Automated control: Integrated control systems can more easily achieve automated operation, reduce manual intervention, and improve the reliability and stability of the system.

[0073] (4) Improve water treatment efficiency

[0074] High-efficiency oxygenation: The oxygenation equipment is closely integrated with the protein skimmer and biofilter to form an integrated oxygenation system. By employing advanced microbubble technology, oxygen from the air is efficiently dissolved into the water, driving the movement of the biological filter media while providing power for the protein skimmer section, and ensuring the full dissolution and utilization of oxygen.

[0075] Biofilter optimization: Through single-sided aeration, plug flow, and oval filter bed design, the biofilter media is evenly dispersed, optimizing the biofiltration effect of the biofilter bed, effectively decomposing harmful substances such as ammonia nitrogen and nitrite in the water, and maintaining water quality stability.

[0076] High-efficiency protein separation: Through advanced in-situ separation technology, the equipment can separate suspended particulate matter and macromolecular organic matter in water in a timely and efficient manner, reducing water pollution and lowering the risk of fish diseases.

[0077] In summary, this invention provides an integrated, highly efficient, and easy-to-maintain in-situ protein separation biofilter, solving the problems of dispersed equipment, high energy consumption, large footprint, complex maintenance, and low efficiency in existing aquaculture water treatment technologies. This equipment is particularly suitable for small and medium-sized aquaculture farms and home ornamental fish farming, significantly improving water quality treatment and enhancing the economic benefits and sustainability of aquaculture.

[0078] It will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that, without conflict, the advantageous technical features of the above-mentioned methods can be freely combined and superimposed.

[0079] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention. The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that for those skilled in the art, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the technical principles of the present invention, and these improvements and modifications should also be considered within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter, characterized in that, The system includes a filter bed body (1), a foam discharge component, and an oxygenation component. The filter bed body (1) has a accommodating space for accommodating biological filter media (11). Projected onto a vertical plane, the boundary of the accommodating space is oval, with a first arc segment at the top and a second arc segment at the bottom. The oxygenation component is positioned corresponding to the second arc segment, and the foam discharge component is positioned corresponding to the first arc segment. The first and second arc segments are semi-circular arc segments. The bubbles generated by the oxygenation component can enter the accommodating space and rise within it to generate foam. The rising of the bubbles generates foam that benefits the water and the biological filter media. Driven by the flow of the filter media (11), the foam discharge assembly can collect and discharge the generated foam into the target space; the oxygenation assembly includes an aeration pipe (21) and a bubble diffuser (22) connected to the outlet of the aeration pipe (21). The bubble diffuser (22) is located in the connection area between the second arc segment and the vertical segment of the oval shape, and is located in the accommodating space to achieve unilateral aeration, thereby enhancing water circulation and oxygen supply through unilateral aeration; it also includes a water pump assembly, which is arranged corresponding to the second arc segment. The water pump (41) of the water pump assembly is directed towards the side of the oxygenation assembly and is parallel to the tangent of the arc apex of the second arc segment.

2. The integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The oxygenation assembly includes at least two groups, and the bubble diameters generated by the bubble diffusers (22) in each group of the oxygenation assembly are different.

3. The integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The foam discharge assembly includes a foam collection cover (31) that is sealed to the outer wall of the first arc segment. The top of the foam collection cover (31) has a discharge port, and a foam discharge pipe (32) is detachably connected to the discharge port. The outlet of the foam discharge pipe (32) is located within the target space.

4. The integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter according to claim 3, characterized in that, The foam collection cover (31) is an inverted cone shape, with the large opening of the inverted cone connected to the first arc segment; or, the foam collection cover (31) is an hourglass shape, with one end face of the hourglass shape connected to the first arc segment, and the outlet constructed on the other end face.

5. The integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first arc segment has a first through hole (12) that penetrates the inside and outside of the accommodating space, and the second arc segment has a second through hole (13) that penetrates the inside and outside of the accommodating space. The diameter of the first through hole (12) is larger than the diameter of the second through hole (13).

6. The integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a base (5), which is supported on the bottom of the filter bed body (1) and forms a water flow channel between the second arc segment and the base (5), and the water pump (41) is located in the water flow channel.

7. The integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The filter bed body (1) is made of a light-shielding material, or the outer surface of the filter bed body (1) has a light-shielding layer.

8. The integrated in-situ protein separation biofilter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The foam discharge assembly has an adjustable foam holding volume.

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