A device and method for catching crayfish for paddy field culture of procambarus clarkii

Abstract

The present application relates to red chelae crayfish catching technical field, especially a kind of red chelae crayfish paddy field cultivation is used to catch shrimping device and method, including the laser lifting device, guide device and collection escape-proof device sequentially arranged along vertical direction, laser lifting device is inducted shrimping group by the green laser aperture of liftable adjustment;Guide device uses the four-prism platform gentle slope and U-shaped tube water flow with fishing net cover, guide shrimping group to climb, and make shrimps fall into collection area by the flipper triggered by shrimp body self-weight;Collection escape-proof device realizes no-escape collection by escape-proof board, one-way collection net cage and inverted whisk structure, the present application utilizes the photophobicity and top water habit of red chelae crayfish, realizes the full-process automation closed loop operation from "induction, guide, fall shrimps to collection", effectively solves the problems of traditional ground cage fishing, such as high labor intensity, low efficiency, high damage and serious escape, has the advantages of high efficiency, low damage and strong adaptability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of redclaw crayfish harvesting technology, specifically to a crayfish harvesting device and method for rice paddy aquaculture of redclaw crayfish. Background Technology

[0002] Redclaw crayfish have become a new aquaculture species due to their rapid growth and high unit price. Rice-paddy ecological farming has become the mainstream farming method for redclaw crayfish due to its environmental friendliness and high efficiency. However, limited by the terrain of rice paddies (large plots, typically 10-30 mu), the nocturnal and dispersed behavior of redclaw crayfish, and the limitations of existing harvesting techniques, the harvesting stage has become a significant bottleneck restricting the improvement of farming efficiency. The main difficulties are as follows: 1. Low fishing efficiency and high labor intensity: Currently, fishing mainly relies on traditional traps, which require a large number of manual setups and retrievals, making the operation cumbersome. Red claw crayfish are scattered, and the attraction range of traditional traps is limited, resulting in small catches per operation and requiring multiple operations, leading to high labor costs.

[0003] 2. Poor targeting and insufficient adaptability: Red claw crayfish are sensitive to specific wavelengths (such as green lasers), and different sizes of crayfish have different activity levels. Traditional traps rely solely on bait for attraction, lacking precise design tailored to the biological habits of crayfish, resulting in inconsistent attraction effectiveness.

[0004] 3. Insufficient climbing guidance and high escape rate: The complex terrain of paddy fields means that existing devices lack effective climbing guidance structures and have not designed a directional guidance mechanism that takes into account the shrimp's "heading into the water" habit. As a result, shrimp are easily trapped and escape after being attracted, leading to low efficiency in entering the collection device.

[0005] 4. Severe damage during fishing and reduced quality: Traditional traps are small and the shrimp are prone to limb damage due to lack of oxygen, squeezing and struggling, which affects the appearance and survival rate. Red claw crayfish are especially prone to infection after injury because they are large.

[0006] To address the above problems, this invention proposes a shrimp-catching device and method for rice paddy aquaculture of red claw crayfish that integrates light attraction, guidance, escape prevention, and low loss. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In view of the shortcomings of the existing technology, the purpose of this invention is to provide a shrimp-catching device and method for rice paddy aquaculture of red claw crayfish.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a shrimp-catching device for rice paddy aquaculture of redclaw crayfish, comprising: A laser lifting device is used to project an adjustable aperture onto the surface of the aquaculture water to attract red claw crayfish; A guiding device, located below the laser lifting device, is used to guide the attracted red claw crayfish to climb and fall into the collection area; An escape-prevention device is installed below the guide device to catch the falling red claw crayfish and prevent them from escaping. The laser lifting device, the guiding device, and the collection and escape prevention device are arranged in sequence along the vertical direction, forming a continuous operation path from attracting and guiding climbing to collecting and preventing escape.

[0009] In some embodiments, the laser lifting device includes: Erect a pole; The lamp holder is movably mounted on the upright. Multiple laser lights are evenly distributed on the lamp holder. The laser lights emit green laser light with a wavelength of 520nm-561nm and a light intensity ≤1mW / cm². A drive mechanism, connected to the lamp holder, is used to drive the lamp holder to move up and down along the pole; Specifically, by adjusting the focal length of the laser lights, the light emitted by multiple laser lights forms a complete aperture on the surface of the aquaculture water, and the size of the aperture is adjusted by controlling the lifting and lowering of the light frame through the drive mechanism.

[0010] In some embodiments, the drive mechanism includes: A ball screw is arranged parallel to the upright, and its shaft is connected to the lamp holder via a nut pair. A worm geared motor is connected to the top or bottom end of the ball screw for driving the ball screw to rotate; The lamp holder is slidably fitted to the pole via a linear bearing.

[0011] In some embodiments, the drive mechanism is configured to adjust the descent speed of the lamp holder (3) according to the average size of the red claw crayfish: when the average size is 50g-70g, the descent speed is 3 hours / 3 meters; when the average size is less than 50g or greater than 70g, the descent speed is 4 hours / 3 meters.

[0012] In some embodiments, the guiding device is a side-panel open truncated pyramid, comprising: The bottom plate is designed to fit snugly against the field surface. Two long, gentle slopes are arranged opposite each other, with the angle between the slope surface of the long, gentle slope and the lower base plate being ≤45°; The upper base plate is rotatably mounted on top of the truncated pyramid; Fishing nets are laid on the surface of the long, gentle slope.

[0013] In some embodiments, the guiding device further includes a water flow guiding mechanism, the water flow guiding mechanism comprising: A U-shaped tube is provided along the upper edge of the truncated pyramid, and multiple through holes are provided on its tube wall facing the long, gentle slope surface. A submersible pump, connected to the U-shaped pipe, is used to supply water into the U-shaped pipe, so that the water flows through the through hole and impacts the slope surface of the long, gentle slope.

[0014] In some embodiments, the upper base plate is rotatably mounted on the upper edge of the truncated pyramid via a rotating rod as a pivot. When the redclawed crayfish climbs onto the upper base plate, its own weight triggers the upper base plate to rotate around the rotating rod, causing the crayfish to fall from the side.

[0015] In some embodiments, the collection and escape prevention device includes: A shrimp collection basin is horizontally positioned directly below the guiding device to catch red claw shrimp falling from the guiding device. An escape-proof plate is arranged around the shrimp collection basin, with its upper edge flush with the lower opening of the guide device and without gaps. A one-way collection net cage, one end of which is connected to the opening of the shrimp collection basin, and the interior of which is provided with at least one reverse-whisker-type one-way constriction. The shrimp inlet is located at the end of the one-way collection net cage.

[0016] In some embodiments, the one-way collection cage is also provided with a feeding box for placing feeding material to guide the redclaw crayfish to move towards the end of the cage.

[0017] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention also provides the following technical solution: a method for catching redclaw crayfish using the aforementioned crayfish catching device, comprising the following steps: S1. Place the device in the aquaculture area and activate the laser lifting device to make the laser light form an initial light circle on the surface of the aquaculture water. S2. Start the drive mechanism to slowly lower the lamp holder, and the light circle will slowly shrink accordingly, taking advantage of the red claw crayfish's photophobic habits to lure them to the center area of ​​the device; S3. Simultaneously activate the water flow guiding mechanism of the guiding device, using water flow and slope fishing net to guide the attracted shrimp to climb up the gentle slope; S4. When the shrimp climbs to the flip-up plate at the top of the guide device, it is triggered to flip, causing the shrimp to fall into the shrimp collection basin below. S5. The shrimp that fall into the shrimp collection basin enter the one-way collection net cage through the opening, and gather at the end of the net cage under the guidance of the reverse-tailed one-way closing and the bait box. S6. Collect the red claw crayfish by opening the shrimp-collecting port.

[0018] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are: 1. Revolutionary improvement in fishing efficiency and significant reduction in labor intensity: Utilizing a specific wavelength green laser to form a retractable aperture for active attraction, a single operation can cover an area of ​​approximately 11.78 acres, achieving a wide and rapid attraction range and enabling large-scale, rapid concentration of shrimp populations. Combined with a liftable design, it eliminates the need for frequent manual movement and the deployment of multiple traps, simplifying the traditional multi-person, multi-day fishing operation into a single-point, single-operation process, greatly reducing labor intensity and meeting the batch fishing needs of large-scale aquaculture.

[0019] 2. Highly targeted and adaptable trapping: Targeting the redclaw crayfish's sensitivity to 520nm-561nm green laser light, this system enables precise optical trapping, replacing the instability of traditional bait-based methods. By adjusting the laser light stand's lifting speed through a drive system, it can accommodate the different sizes (e.g., under 50g, 50g-70g, and over 70g) of redclaw crayfish, achieving differentiated and precise trapping of crayfish at different growth stages, thus improving the device's versatility and trapping effectiveness.

[0020] 3. Achieving stress-free active aggregation to ensure shrimp health and survival rate: Utilizing the red claw crayfish's instinct to avoid strong light, the system guides them to actively gather towards the center by slowly contracting the light aura. This process avoids stress methods such as artificial driving and electric shock, greatly reducing the stress response of the shrimp population and effectively preventing problems such as decreased vitality and reduced immunity caused by stress. This provides a higher quality and higher survival rate shrimp source for subsequent transportation and temporary holding.

[0021] 4. Highly efficient climbing guidance significantly reduces escape rate: This innovative design combines optical attraction, water flow guidance (U-shaped pipe directional water flow), and mechanical assistance (fishing nets laid on a gentle slope) in a synergistic mechanism. Utilizing the shrimp's "head-up" behavior, they are guided to climb directionally along a gentle, four-sided truncated slope; the fishing nets on the slope provide effective footholds for the shrimp, solving the problem of slipping on smooth surfaces. This design ensures that the attracted shrimp can enter the collection channel efficiently and orderly, greatly reducing the possibility of them lingering on the device surface and escaping.

[0022] 5. Constructing a closed-loop system to prevent escape throughout the entire process, ensuring the purity of the catch: From the trigger-activated flipping plate that automatically drops shrimp, to the escape-prevention plates around the shrimp collection basin, and then to the connection of the collection net cage with a "reverse whisker" unidirectional constriction, a complete physical escape-prevention closed loop is formed, consisting of "gathering-climbing-triggering-falling-collecting-shrimp retrieval". Once the shrimp enters the collection system, they cannot escape in reverse, ensuring that the captured shrimp are not lost and significantly increasing the net yield of a single catch.

[0023] 6. High degree of automation, simple and reliable operation: Key actions such as the raising and lowering of the laser light stand and the shrimp-triggered flipping mechanism are all automated or semi-automated. The flipping mechanism is driven by the shrimp's own weight, requiring no additional power or complex control, and has a simple and reliable structure. The entire harvesting process is logically clear, and the operators are mainly responsible for starting and stopping the equipment and finally removing the shrimp. It is easy to operate and readily adopted by farmers.

[0024] 7. Effectively reduces harvesting damage and enhances commercial value: The device avoids the squeezing and struggling of shrimp in a confined space caused by traditional traps. The shrimp collection basin and net cage provide relatively ample space for movement, and the net cage is made of soft yet tough material, reducing the risk of shell abrasion and claw breakage. The low-stress, low-damage harvesting process ensures the shrimp's intact body shape and health, reduces the probability of subsequent infection with pathogens, and directly improves the appearance and economic value of the marketed product.

[0025] 8. Structural design adaptable to complex paddy field environments: The device support is equipped with a level to ensure stable placement on uneven field ridges or along ditches. The truncated pyramidal design without side rails allows it to fit snugly against the field surface, adapting to changes in paddy field water levels and muddy conditions. The entire device can be modularly assembled and disassembled for easy transportation and deployment in the field.

[0026] 9. Low energy consumption and high sustainability: The core energy source for trapping is a low-power, specific-wavelength laser. The drive system only operates when adjusting the altitude, and the water flow recycles field water sources, resulting in low overall energy consumption. Compared to traditional methods that require large amounts of bait or continuous high-energy operations, it is more economical and environmentally friendly.

[0027] 10. Provides a foundation for intelligent and precise aquaculture management: The working principle of this device is clear, the process is controllable, and it is easy to integrate with devices such as timers and water level sensors. In the future, it can be developed into intelligent equipment that automatically executes the fishing program based on time and environmental parameters. It is a beneficial exploration to promote the precision and intelligent management of aquaculture.

[0028] Details of one or more embodiments of this application are set forth in the following drawings and description to make other features, objects and advantages of this application more readily apparent. The embodiments of this application will provide a detailed description and understanding of the application. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the device structure of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the laser lifting device of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the guiding device and the collection and escape prevention device of the present invention; Figure 4 for Figure 3 The device is shown in a top-section cross-section.

[0030] In the diagram: 1. Bracket; 2. Pole; 3. Lamp holder; 4. Laser light; 5. Main bracket; 6. Linear bearing; 7. Limiting block; 8. Ball screw; 10. Worm gear motor; 11. 12V switching power supply; 13. Cable management slip ring; 14. 24V power adapter; 15. Level; 16. Open-top truncated quadrangular truncated quadrangular truncated quadrature without side panels; 17. Upper base plate; 18. Lower base plate; 19. Long gentle slope; 20. Rotating rod; 21. Fishing net; 22. U-shaped tube; 23. Through hole; 24. Submersible pump; 25. Shrimp collection basin; 26. One-way collection net cage; 27. Escape prevention plate; 28. One-way closing with reverse whiskers; 29. ​​Feeding box; 30. Shrimp extraction port. Detailed Implementation

[0031] 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. 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.

[0032] This invention provides a shrimp-catching device for redclaw crayfish farming in rice paddies. Its core lies in constructing a stress-free, escape-free closed-loop operational path of "gathering-climbing-triggering-falling-collection-shrimp retrieval." The device mainly consists of three spatially vertically connected functional modules: a laser lifting device, a guiding device, and a collection and escape-prevention device. The laser lifting device utilizes the redclaw crayfish's photophobic behavior to conduct large-scale, stress-free attraction; the guiding device uses water flow and climbing aids to guide the attracted shrimp to a designated landing point; and the collection and escape-prevention device catches the shrimp and achieves zero-escape collection and convenient retrieval through a one-way channel and escape-prevention structure. The three devices work together to achieve full automation and high efficiency from field attraction to final retrieval.

[0033] Example 1: Basic Structure Example This embodiment elaborates in detail the basic structure, connection relationship of each component, and working principle of the shrimp catching device of the present invention.

[0034] 1. Laser lifting device The laser lifting device is the "brain" and "command center" of the system, responsible for sending attraction signals and controlling the attraction process. For example... Figure 1 and 2 As shown, the device mainly includes a bracket 1, a pole 2, a lamp holder 3, a laser lamp 4, and a drive control system.

[0035] Support 1: Serving as the base of the entire laser lifting device, it is typically designed as a stable table-shaped structure to ensure stability on the soft soil of the paddy field. Support 1 integrates a level 15 for quick leveling during installation, ensuring the verticality of the uprights 2, which is crucial for the uniform projection of the laser beam onto the field surface.

[0036] Upright pole 2: Vertically fixed to bracket 1, serving as the guide rail and main support structure for the lifting and lowering of the light fixture 3. Its length is preferably 3 meters to accommodate the water depth and trapping height requirements of conventional paddy fields. Limiting blocks 7 are installed at the top and bottom of upright pole 2 to mechanically limit the lifting and lowering stroke of the light fixture 3, preventing structural collision damage due to control failure.

[0037] Light stand 3: Movably mounted on pole 2, serving as the support platform for the laser lights 4. A through hole in the center of light stand 3 allows it to slide smoothly along pole 2. Approximately 50 variable-focus laser lights 4 are evenly arranged in a circular or rectangular array on light stand 3. All laser lights 4 are connected in series via electrical wires for unified power supply and control. The laser wavelength emitted by each laser light 4 is strictly limited to the green band of 520nm to 561nm, a band proven by research to be most sensitive to the stimulus-avoidance response of redclaw crayfish. Simultaneously, the laser intensity is controlled to ≤1mW / cm², meeting the Class 2 laser safety standard, ensuring that accidental direct viewing for short periods will not damage the retina, thus guaranteeing safety during field operations.

[0038] Drive mechanism: Responsible for driving the lamp holder 3 to rise and fall smoothly and slowly. Its core components include: Linear bearing 6: It is firmly connected to the lamp holder 3 via four large brackets 5. The inner ring of the linear bearing 6 is in direct contact with the upright 2, providing a low-friction, high-precision vertical sliding fit, ensuring the linearity and stability of the lamp holder 3 during lifting.

[0039] Ball screw 8: Its bottom end is vertically rotatably limited on the bracket 1, and its upper end is supported by a limiting component to the upper end of the upright. The nut assembly of ball screw 8 is fixed to the housing of linear bearing 6 or the extension structure of lamp holder 3. When ball screw 8 rotates, the rotational motion is converted into the linear lifting motion of lamp holder 3 through the nut assembly.

[0040] The worm geared motor 10 is fixed to the top of the upright 2 or to the bracket 1, and its output shaft is connected to the top or bottom of the ball screw 8 via a coupling. The worm geared motor 10 features a high reduction ratio and self-locking characteristics, providing high torque and low speed output, making it ideal for lifting scenarios requiring slow, precise operation and stable positioning even in the event of power failure. The forward and reverse rotation of the motor 10 controls the lifting of the lamp holder 3.

[0041] Control System and Power Supply: A 12V switching power supply 11 and a 24V power adapter 14 power the motor, laser lights, and any possible control units. The power cord is routed along the pole 2 and managed via a wire storage slip ring 13 to prevent tangling, wear, or detachment during repeated raising and lowering of the light stand 3. The core control logic of the drive mechanism lies in its speed adjustability. Different descent speeds are preset to accommodate the varying activity levels of different sizes of red claw crayfish: when the average size of the target red claw crayfish is 50g-70g, the descent speed of the light stand 3 is set to 3 meters in 3 hours; when the average size is less than 50g (juvenile crayfish or early-stage growth) or greater than 70g (adult crayfish), the activity level or reaction speed to stimuli differs, and the descent speed is adjusted to a slower 3 meters in 4 hours. This differentiated speed design ensures that crayfish of different sizes can be gently driven and gathered without severe stress.

[0042] Working Principle (Laser Attraction Stage): At the start of the operation, the light stand 3 is positioned high on the pole 2 (e.g., at 3 meters). All laser lights 4 are turned on, and by adjusting the focal length of each individual laser light, all the light spots are connected on the surface of the paddy field to form a complete bright circle with a maximum radius of 50 meters, covering an area of ​​approximately 11.78 acres in a single operation. Subsequently, the turbine reduction motor 10 starts, driving the ball screw 8 to rotate slowly, causing the light stand 3 to descend at a preset speed (e.g., 3h / 3m). As the light stand 3 descends, the laser incident angle changes, and the radius of the circle on the water surface decreases synchronously, slowly, and continuously. Red-clawed crayfish within the circle, out of their instinct to avoid strong light, will continuously move towards the center of the circle—the area with the weakest light—thus being gathered in an orderly manner and without coercion to the area below the center of the device, without any physical driving or chemical attraction.

[0043] 2. Guiding device The guiding device acts as a "bridge" connecting the trapping area and the collection area. Its core is a frustum-shaped structure without side enclosures, such as... Figure 1 As shown, it is placed directly below the laser lifting device.

[0044] Main structure: This quadrangular truncated pyramid 16 abandons the traditional four-sided enclosure structure of containers, retaining only the upper bottom plate 17, the lower bottom plate 18, and two opposing long, gentle slopes 19. This "open" design greatly reduces the visual and physical obstacles for shrimp to climb. The lower bottom plate 18 is placed directly against the field surface.

[0045] Gentle slope design: The angle between the two long gentle slopes 19 and the lower bottom plate 18 is ≤45°. This gentle slope design significantly reduces the climbing slope of the redclaw crayfish, conforms to its crawling mechanics, and reduces climbing resistance.

[0046] Climbing Assist - Fishing Net 21: A layer of fishing net 21 is tightly laid across the entire slope surface of the two long, gentle slopes 19. The mesh inner diameter of the fishing net 21 is preferably 20-25mm. This size is not for screening, but rather to provide excellent gripping points for the walking legs and claws of the redclaw crayfish. When the crayfish climbs, its legs can embed into the mesh, generating greater friction and effectively preventing it from slipping or falling backward on the slope, greatly improving climbing efficiency and success rate.

[0047] Water flow guiding mechanism: To enhance the guiding effect, taking into account the "head-up" behavior of red claw crayfish, a U-shaped pipe 22 is installed on the upper edge of the quadrangular truncated pyramid 16. On both sides near the long, gentle slope 19, a series of through holes 23 are evenly distributed on the wall of the U-shaped pipe 22, with all the openings of the through holes 23 facing the slope. The U-shaped pipe 22 is connected to a submersible pump 24. During operation, the submersible pump 24 pumps paddy field water into the U-shaped pipe 22, and the water flow is continuously and evenly sprayed from the through holes 23 onto the fishing net 21 on the slope below, forming a layer of flowing water film from top to bottom. This water flow exerts a continuous attraction on the crayfish, guiding them upstream, forming a synergistic "light-flow" dual guiding effect with laser attraction.

[0048] Triggered Shrimp-Flipping Mechanism: The top base plate 17 of the quadrangular truncated pyramid 16 is not fixed, but rather a flip-up plate. It is made of a solid hardwood board, with a rotating rod 20 running vertically through its center as a rotation axis. The two ends of the rotating rod 20 are fixed to the frame at the top of the quadrangular truncated pyramid, allowing the top base plate 17 to rotate flexibly and with low resistance around the rotating rod 20. The ingenious design uses the shrimp's own weight as the trigger force. When the redclaw crayfish climbs up the gentle slope to the top and reaches the top base plate 17, its weight causes the top base plate 17 to lose balance and instantly flip around the rotating rod 20. The shrimp then falls vertically from the side of the flipped plate, accurately landing in the preset collection area below. The entire process requires no additional sensors or electric push rods, featuring a simple structure, zero energy consumption, and extremely high reliability.

[0049] 3. Collect escape prevention devices The collection and escape prevention device is the "final destination" of the system, responsible for the temporary storage and collection of shrimp to achieve zero escape, such as... Figure 3 and 4 As shown.

[0050] Shrimp collecting basin 25: Horizontally positioned directly below the side-enclosed quadrangular truncated pyramid 16, it is used to catch red clawed shrimp that fall from the flipped upper bottom plate 17. Its bottom conforms to the field surface, and its capacity is designed according to the expected catch volume.

[0051] Escape-proof plate 27: A fully enclosed escape-proof plate 27 is erected around the shrimp collection basin 25. The height of the escape-proof plate 27 is such that its upper edge is exactly flush with the lower edge of the truncated pyramid 16, and there are no gaps at the connection. This design completely blocks any possibility of shrimp climbing out from around the collection basin, because after they fall from the truncated pyramid, they fall directly into the "courtyard" formed by the escape-proof plate 27.

[0052] One-way collection net cage 26: The shrimp collection basin 25 has only one opening along one long side, serving as the sole outlet. This opening connects to the one-way collection net cage 26. The net cage 26 has at least one set of reverse-finger-type one-way closing openings 28 (usually two sets, two in each set). The reverse-finger structure is made of flexible mesh, shaped like a funnel, with the larger opening facing the shrimp collection basin and the smaller opening facing the depth of the net cage. Shrimp can easily squeeze from the larger opening into the smaller opening, but once inside, the soft reverse-finger structure closes, preventing them from being squeezed out backwards, truly achieving "no return after entry."

[0053] Shrimp attraction and harvesting: Inside the one-way collection net cage 26, near the end, is a bait box 29 containing bait that red claw crayfish prefer. The scent of the bait further attracts the shrimp already inside the net cage to move towards the end, achieving active gathering of shrimp within the net cage and preventing accumulation at the entrance. The very end of the net cage has a shrimp harvesting opening 30, which is normally closed. When the shrimp harvesting operation is finished, opening the opening 30 allows for the convenient and complete removal of all the shrimp gathered there, greatly simplifying the harvesting process.

[0054] Workflow summary of this embodiment: Deployment: Place the three devices in the center of the target area in the rice paddy, with the laser lifting device on top, the guiding device in the middle, and the collection and escape prevention device at the bottom. Level the support frame and connect the power supply.

[0055] Initiating the attraction: Turn on the laser light to create its maximum aperture. Start the turbine reduction motor, and the light stand will slowly descend at a speed appropriate to the size of the shrimp, while the aperture shrinks synchronously to attract the shrimp.

[0056] Initiation and guidance: Turn on the submersible pump, and spray water onto the gentle slope through the U-shaped pipe. The shrimp, attracted to the vicinity of the truncated pyramid, begin to climb up the gentle slope covered with fishing nets under the combined effects of "light drive" and "water flow attraction".

[0057] Trigger Shrimp Drop: The shrimp climbs to the top, steps onto the flip-up base, triggers the flip, and the shrimp falls vertically into the shrimp collection basin.

[0058] Collection and Escape Prevention: Shrimp that fall into the shrimp collection basin are restricted from escaping in all directions by the escape prevention board and can only enter the one-way collection net cage through the single opening. After passing through the inverted antennae-shaped constriction, they cannot return and are attracted to the end by the bait box.

[0059] Harvesting: After the harvesting operation is complete (e.g., the light fixture is lowered to the bottom and the aperture is minimized), turn off the laser and power. Open the shrimp-collecting opening at the end of the net cage to harvest all the caught redclawed crayfish. Example 2: Parameterized Implementation for Different Aquaculture Scales and Shrimp Sizes Based on the basic structure of Example 1, this embodiment focuses on how to adapt to different farming scales (field size, farming density) and different growth sizes of red claw crayfish by adjusting parameters, so as to maximize the universality of the device and the harvesting efficiency.

[0060] Suitable for different field sizes and stocking densities: Adjustment of the number and power of laser lights: For standard paddy fields of 10-30 mu (approximately 1.65-2 hectares), using 50 laser lights with moderate power each, forming a 50-meter radius aperture, is the preferred solution. For small-scale aquaculture units or experimental fields smaller than 10 mu (approximately 1.65-2 hectares), the number of laser lights can be reduced to 20-30, with corresponding reductions in motor power and structural dimensions to create a compact device and reduce costs. For contiguous aquaculture areas larger than 30 mu (approximately 2 hectares), a "one main, multiple auxiliary" model can be adopted: a complete set of this device is deployed in the central area as the main collection point, while multiple satellite collection points with only laser lifting devices are deployed in other strategic locations in the field (such as the intersection of ring ditches). The satellite points are linked with the main device via a wireless synchronization controller, descent synchronously and shrinking the aperture, driving shrimp over a larger area toward the main collection point to achieve ultra-large-area coverage.

[0061] Light aperture contraction strategy adjustment: For fields with high stocking density, the initial height of the light frame can be appropriately reduced, and the initial light aperture radius can be set to 30-40 meters to avoid excessive gathering and congestion of shrimp in front of the guiding device. The contraction speed (light frame descent speed) can adopt a two-stage strategy of "fast at first, slow later": initially, rapidly contract to a certain range (e.g., from 50 meters to 20 meters) to quickly gather most of the shrimp; later, slowly contract (e.g., from 20 meters to 0 meters) to carefully drive away the remaining shrimp and improve the harvest rate.

[0062] Refined adaptation for different sizes of redclaw crayfish: Adjusting the climbing slope parameters: Although the basic slope angle is ≤45°, for juvenile shrimp weighing less than 50g, their climbing ability is relatively weak. The slope angle can be further optimized to 30°-35°, and a fishing net with a smaller mesh (e.g., 15-20mm) should be provided to better suit their small walking legs for gripping. For adult shrimp weighing more than 70g, their strength is greater but their flexibility may be slightly less. The slope angle can be maintained at 40°-45°, but the fishing net material needs to be more durable, and the mesh can be slightly larger (25-30mm) to prevent their claws from getting stuck.

[0063] Water flow parameter adjustment: The speed and flow rate of the water impacting the slope can be controlled by adjusting the power of the submersible pump 24 or the diameter of the through hole 23 on the U-tube 22. For juvenile shrimp, a gentle, dispersed water flow should be used to avoid washing them away. For adult shrimp, a slightly faster and more powerful water flow can be used to provide a stronger directional guiding stimulus.

[0064] Adjustments to the collection net cage: Different sizes of shrimp have different body widths and mobility. The minimum passage diameter of the "inverted antennae" of the one-way constriction cage 28 needs to be adjusted accordingly. For juvenile shrimp, the constriction diameter can be smaller (e.g., 4-5cm) to ensure escape prevention; for adult shrimp, the constriction diameter needs to be larger (e.g., 6-8cm) to ensure smooth passage without causing squeezing stress. The types of bait in the bait box 29 can also be selected according to the size of the shrimp. For example, juvenile shrimp prefer finer, more nutritious bait, while adult shrimp may be more interested in larger pellets or animal-based bait.

[0065] Extended Application of Lifting and Lowering Speed: Example 1 provides speeds for two different sizes. This example can be extended to a continuously adjustable intelligent control system. The operator can directly input the average size (in grams) of the target shrimp through the control panel. The control system automatically calculates the optimal descent speed of the light stand based on a preset algorithm model (such as a size-speed curve) and controls the turbine reduction motor 10 to execute it. Furthermore, the system can integrate a simple weighing sensor at the collection end to provide feedback on the average size of the shrimp caught this time, which can be used to optimize the parameters for the next catch. Example 3: Implementation method applicable to complex paddy field terrain and different water levels This embodiment focuses on addressing the challenges that the device may encounter in the actual environment of paddy fields, such as uneven field surfaces, the coexistence of ring ditches and field ridges, and water level changes during rice growth.

[0066] Terrain adaptive design: Improvement of support 1: The fixed table-shaped support in Embodiment 1 is replaced with an adjustable leg support. The length of each leg can be independently adjusted manually or mechanically over a wide range. When placed on uneven field ridges or ditch slopes, by adjusting the length of each leg and in conjunction with the indication of the level 15, the upright 2 can be quickly kept vertical on complex terrain, ensuring the regular shape of the laser aperture.

[0067] The guide device fits snugly against the field surface: The bottom plate 18 of the quadrangular frustum 16 can be designed with a flexible frame (such as a rubber-covered edge) or multiple independent adjustable support points. When placed on an uneven field surface, the flexible frame or support points can adapt to the terrain, allowing the bottom plate 18 to fit as closely as possible to the field surface, preventing shrimp from escaping through bottom gaps, while ensuring the relative stability of the slope angle.

[0068] Modular Layout: For deep-water trapping areas like ring ditches, the guiding device and the collection and escape prevention device can be placed as a single module directly at the bottom of the ditch. The laser lifting device, on the other hand, is erected on the field ridges beside the ditch via an extended pole or a telescopic pole. The two are connected by an extension cable. This modular, separate layout allows the device to flexibly adapt to complex terrains of the field surface and ring ditch.

[0069] Water level change response plan: Scalability of the pole and light stand: During the rice cultivation cycle, the water level changes from shallow to deep. In this embodiment, the pole 2 can adopt a multi-section telescopic or plug-in design. A shorter length is used during shallow water periods; during deep water periods, the pole is lengthened to ensure that the initial working height of the light stand 3 is above the water surface and can complete the entire descent. The dimensions (arm span) of the light stand 3 can also be designed to be adjustable to ensure that the laser can effectively cover the water surface to form a light circle at different installation heights.

[0070] Waterproof and buoyancy design of the guiding device: The main structure of the quadrangular truncated pyramid 16 can be made of hollow, sealed food-grade plastic or composite material, giving it a certain degree of buoyancy. When the water level in the paddy field rises, the entire guiding device can float slightly with the water level, always maintaining the contact between its lower base plate 18 and the "current paddy surface" (i.e., the bottom of the water), and the relative height between the upper base plate 17 and the shrimp dropping opening, ensuring that the operation process is not affected by water level fluctuations. The installation positions of the U-shaped pipe 22 and the submersible pump 24 also need to be waterproofed and sealed.

[0071] Anti-siltation design of the collection device: The shrimp collection basin 25 is placed at the bottom, where silt easily accumulates. Its bottom can be designed with a perforated mesh or multiple drainage holes, and the outside can be wrapped with a dense anti-escape net. This allows water and fine silt to drain out, while preventing shrimp from escaping and preventing the basin from becoming ineffective due to siltation. Example 4: Implementation of Integrated Intelligent Control and Remote Monitoring This embodiment integrates modern Internet of Things (IoT) technology into the device, enhancing its automation, intelligence, and user experience.

[0072] Intelligent control system hardware: The device integrates a waterproof control box containing a microprocessor controller (such as a PLC or embedded microcontroller), a motor driver, a wireless communication module (such as 4G / 5G, LoRa or NB-IoT), a power management module, and an environmental sensor interface.

[0073] Core intelligent functions: Automated operation program: Users can preset the "operation schedule" via mobile APP or web interface, for example: automatically start at 19:00 every night, the laser is turned on, the light stand begins to descend, and the submersible pump starts; after 4 hours (the preset operation cycle), all equipment automatically shuts down and sends a "operation completed" notification to the user's mobile phone. This enables unattended nighttime fishing.

[0074] Environmental Adaptation: An integrated photosensor allows the system to automatically activate when ambient light levels fall below a certain threshold (e.g., at dusk) and automatically deactivate at dawn, better aligning with the nocturnal habits of redclaw crayfish. An integrated water level sensor automatically adjusts the initial and final height of the light fixture based on the current water depth.

[0075] Status monitoring and alarms: The system monitors parameters such as motor current, laser light operating status, and power supply voltage in real time. In the event of any abnormality (such as motor jamming, laser light malfunction, or low battery power), an alarm message is immediately sent to the user via the wireless network, and a safety shutdown procedure may be executed.

[0076] Data recording and analysis: The system records the start and end times, power consumption, and preset shrimp size parameters for each operation. Long-term data accumulation can be used to analyze harvesting efficiency, optimize operational parameters, and even estimate yield.

[0077] Remote visual monitoring: Install a waterproof night vision camera on the light stand 3 or pole 2. Users can view the field light status, the approximate situation of shrimp gathering (visible at night via infrared or low light), and the final amount of shrimp in the net cages on their mobile phones in real time, realizing the "visualization" of the harvesting process and enhancing the manager's confidence and sense of control.

[0078] Energy Solution: To support long-term intelligent operation in the field, the power supply system can be upgraded to a hybrid mode of "mains power + solar panels + batteries". During the day, solar energy is used to charge the batteries, and at night, the batteries power the entire system, achieving energy self-sufficiency, eliminating dependence on fixed power sources, and allowing the device to be deployed anywhere in the rice paddy. Example 5: Simplified and Low-Cost Implementation This embodiment aims to provide a simplified and lower-cost implementation scheme, suitable for small-scale farmers or scenarios with limited budgets, while optimizing the core inventive ideas.

[0079] Simplification of laser lifting device: The drive mechanism has been simplified: the precision lifting system consisting of the worm geared motor 10 and the ball screw 8 has been eliminated. Instead, a purely mechanical method using a hand-cranked winch, pulley system, and ropes is employed to raise and lower the lamp holder 3. The lamp holder 3 engages with the upright 2 via a slider, and the user controls the height and descent speed by slowly raising and lowering the ropes using the hand-cranked winch. Although the level of automation is reduced, the core "adjustable aperture" function is retained, and costs are significantly reduced, reliability is high, and maintenance is simple.

[0080] Simplified laser light configuration: The 50 individual laser lights are simplified into 4-6 high-power, wide-angle variable-focus laser projection modules, symmetrically mounted on the light stand 3. With careful adjustment, these modules can also combine to form a complete aperture on the water surface. Although the uniformity may be slightly worse, it is sufficient to achieve the attraction function, significantly reducing the cost of the light body and circuitry.

[0081] Simplification of the guiding device: Material simplification: The truncated pyramid 16 structure can use angle steel or a wooden frame as the skeleton, with the surface covered with waterproof plastic-coated woven fabric or inexpensive plastic board as the slope. Fishing net 21 uses common polyethylene fishing net.

[0082] Simplified water flow guidance: U-shaped pipe 22 can be replaced by drilling a hole in a PVC water pipe. Submersible pump 24 can be a small, low-cost DC submersible pump, directly driven by a battery.

[0083] Simplified collection of escape prevention devices: Integrated Design: The functions of the shrimp collection basin 25 and the one-way collection net cage 26 are integrated into a simple, elongated net bag with a barbed structure. This net bag is suspended directly below the lower opening of the truncated pyramid 16, with the opening aligned with the lower opening. The barbed structure is located in the middle of the net bag, and the end is the shrimp collection opening. The escape-prevention plate 27 ensures that the opening of the net bag is tightly and seamlessly bound to the lower opening of the truncated pyramid. This reduces the number of individual components.

[0084] Operating Method: The simplified version of the device relies more on manual intervention. Users need to manually raise the light stand to a high position in the evening, turn on the laser and submersible pump, and then manually crank the winch a certain distance at regular intervals (e.g., every half hour) to simulate the automatic retraction process. The next morning, users come to shut down the device and manually collect the shrimp from the net bags. Although the labor involvement is increased, its efficiency is still significantly improved compared to the high-intensity operation of traditional fish traps, and it achieves the core innovation of light-guided trapping.

[0085] The above five embodiments, progressing step by step from basic structure, parameterized application, terrain adaptation, intelligent upgrade to low-cost simplification, comprehensively illustrate the specific implementation of the invention "A Shrimp Catching Device for Red Claw Crawfish Rice Paddy Aquaculture". Each embodiment firmly grasps the four core technical features: laser-induced attraction and lifting, gentle slope water flow-guided climbing, trigger-type flipping shrimp landing, and one-way escape-prevention and collection, and expands, adapts, and optimizes upon these features. This invention, through the ingenious combination of light, mechanics, and water, simulates and utilizes the natural behavioral habits of red claw crawfish, achieving efficient, low-loss, and low-labor-intensity ecological harvesting, effectively solving all the core dilemmas raised in the background technology, and possessing outstanding novelty, inventiveness, and practicality.

[0086] The above embodiments merely illustrate several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention patent. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

[0087] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A shrimp-catching device for rice paddy aquaculture of redclaw crayfish, characterized in that: include: A laser lifting device is used to project an adjustable aperture onto the surface of the aquaculture water to attract red claw crayfish; A guiding device, located below the laser lifting device, is used to guide the attracted red claw crayfish to climb and fall into the collection area; An escape-prevention device is installed below the guide device to catch the falling red claw crayfish and prevent them from escaping. The laser lifting device, the guiding device, and the collection and escape prevention device are arranged in sequence along the vertical direction, forming a continuous operation path from attracting and guiding climbing to collecting and preventing escape.

2. The shrimp-catching device for rice paddy aquaculture of redclaw crayfish according to claim 1, characterized in that, The laser lifting device includes: Pole erection (2); The lamp holder (3) is movably mounted on the pole (2); Multiple laser lights (4) are evenly arranged on the lamp holder (3). The laser lights (4) emit green lasers with a wavelength of 520nm-561nm and a light intensity ≤1mW / cm². A drive mechanism, connected to the lamp holder (3), is used to drive the lamp holder (3) to rise and fall along the pole (2); In this process, by adjusting the focal length of the laser lamp (4), the light emitted by multiple laser lamps (4) forms a complete aperture on the breeding area, and the size of the aperture is adjusted by controlling the lifting and lowering of the lamp holder (3) through the drive mechanism.

3. The shrimp-catching device for rice paddy aquaculture of redclaw crayfish according to claim 2, characterized in that, The drive mechanism includes: A ball screw (8) is arranged in parallel with the upright (2), and its body is connected to the lamp holder (3) by a nut pair; A worm geared motor (10) is connected to the top or bottom end of the ball screw (8) for driving the ball screw (8) to rotate; The lamp holder (3) is slidably coupled to the pole (2) via a linear bearing (6).

4. The shrimp-catching device for rice paddy aquaculture of redclaw crayfish according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The drive mechanism is configured to adjust the descent speed of the lamp holder (3) according to the average size of the red claw crayfish: when the average size is 50g-70g, the descent speed is 3 hours / 3 meters; when the average size is less than 50g or greater than 70g, the descent speed is 4 hours / 3 meters.

5. The shrimp-catching device for rice paddy aquaculture of redclaw crayfish according to claim 1, characterized in that, The guiding device is a side-panel open quadrangular truncated pyramid (16), which includes: The bottom plate (18) is used to fit the field surface for placement; Two long, gentle slopes (19) are arranged opposite each other, and the angle between the slope surface of the long, gentle slopes (19) and the lower bottom plate (18) is ≤45°; The upper base plate (17) is rotatably mounted on the top of the quadrangular frustum (16); Fishing nets (21) are laid on the surface of the long, gentle slope (19).

6. The shrimp-catching device for rice paddy aquaculture of redclaw crayfish according to claim 5, characterized in that, The guiding device further includes a water flow guiding mechanism, which includes: U-shaped tube (22) is provided along the upper edge of the quadrangular truncated pyramid (16), and multiple through holes (23) are provided on its tube wall facing the slope of the long gentle slope (19). A submersible pump (24) is connected to the U-shaped pipe (22) to supply water into the U-shaped pipe (22) so that the water flows through the through hole (23) to impact the slope surface of the long gentle slope (19).

7. The shrimp-catching device for rice paddy aquaculture of redclaw crayfish according to claim 5, characterized in that, The upper base plate (17) is rotatably mounted on the upper edge of the quadrangular truncated pyramid (16) via a rotating rod (20) as a pivot. When the red claw crayfish climbs onto the upper base plate (17), its own weight triggers the upper base plate (17) to rotate around the rotating rod (20), causing the crayfish to fall from the side.

8. The shrimp-catching device for rice paddy aquaculture of redclaw crayfish according to claim 1, characterized in that, The collection and escape prevention device includes: A shrimp collection basin (25) is horizontally positioned directly below the guiding device to catch red claw shrimp falling from the guiding device. An escape-proof plate (27) is arranged around the shrimp collection basin (25), with its upper edge flush with the lower opening of the guide device and without gaps. A one-way collecting net cage (26) is connected at one end to the opening of the shrimp collecting basin (25), and at least one reverse-whisker type one-way closing opening (28) is provided inside. The shrimp inlet (30) is located at the end of the one-way collection net cage (26).

9. The shrimp-catching device for rice paddy aquaculture of redclaw crayfish according to claim 8, characterized in that, The one-way collection net cage (26) is also equipped with a feeding box (29) for placing feeding material to guide the red claw crayfish to move towards the end of the net cage.

10. A method for catching redclaw crayfish using the crayfish catching device as described in any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1. Place the device in the breeding area and start the laser lifting device so that the laser light forms an initial light circle in the breeding area; S2. Start the drive mechanism to slowly lower the lamp holder, and the light circle will slowly shrink accordingly, taking advantage of the red claw crayfish's photophobic habits to lure them to the center area of ​​the device; S3. Simultaneously activate the water flow guiding mechanism of the guiding device, using water flow and slope fishing net to guide the attracted shrimp to climb up the gentle slope; S4. When the shrimp climbs to the flip-up plate at the top of the guide device, it is triggered to flip, causing the shrimp to fall into the shrimp collection basin below. S5. The shrimp that fall into the shrimp collection basin enter the one-way collection net cage through the opening, and gather at the end of the net cage under the guidance of the reverse-tailed one-way closing and the bait box. S6. Collect the red claw crayfish by opening the shrimp-collecting port.

Images