An aquaculture structure

Abstract

A fish net cage or marine farming module structure, the fish net cage module comprising a plurality of tubular members; a plurality of connection nodes, the connection nodes comprising tubular member receiving portions configured to receive tubular member ends from a plurality of directions; the plurality of tubular members being connected to the connection nodes to form a substantially cuboidal lattice structure and being supported by struts connecting adjacent or opposite tubular members. A method for forming a structural module for an aquaculture structure, the method comprising the steps of: connecting a tubular member to other like tubular members using a connection node, the connection node being a body having receiving portions extending in different directions therefrom; the arrangement being such as to form a lattice structure module. Also described herein is a connection for connecting tubular members together in an aquaculture structure, the connection comprising a body; a plurality of tubular member receiving portions, each of the tubular member receiving portions being for receiving at least a portion of a tubular member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This technology generally involves aquaculture layout structures, such as offshore fish cages; oyster farming; algae farming; kelp farming; and other aquaculture operation structures. Background Technology

[0002] Wild-caught fish have long dominated the seafood supply, but this model is becoming increasingly unsustainable. 90% of wild-caught species are already overfished or completely overfished, with no room for further increases in production.

[0003] The market size for farmed fish is expected to continue to grow to meet global protein demand. Other farmed aquatic products are also becoming increasingly popular, profitable, and sought-after, including kelp, algae, scallops, oysters, and lobsters.

[0004] The aforementioned products utilize heavy and expensive steel structures for aquaculture, making them susceptible to corrosion and biofouling. Most marine aquaculture structures are located in sheltered, shallow nearshore waters to ensure operational safety, ease of management, and rapid transportation.

[0005] However, in recent years, due to public and environmental opposition to water, seabed, and shoreline pollution, coupled with competition from shipping, water recreation, ecological protection, and tourism for sheltered sea areas, the annual growth rate of farmed fish production is slowing down. To address these criticisms and restrictions, offshore fish farming is gradually being promoted as an alternative.

[0006] In addition, offshore aquaculture areas have larger water spaces, better water quality, and lower water temperatures, and the deep sea areas have stronger waves and higher currents, which can achieve better waste dispersion.

[0007] However, shifting fish farming structures to offshore remains a challenge, including dealing with harsh marine environments, unstable environments for farmed fish, safety requirements for workers and operational requirements for auxiliary vessels, and a lack of experience and standards in the design of offshore fish farming cages.

[0008] One of the most prominent challenges facing offshore fish farming is the survival of fish cages and the health of fish during strong storms accompanied by large surface waves, strong winds, and shear currents.

[0009] This technology aims to improve one or more of the above-mentioned defects, or at least provide a beneficial alternative to known cage and aquaculture structures. Summary of the Invention

[0010] In summary, this technology provides a complete set of components for constructing modular aquaculture structures. In some embodiments, the complete set of components is made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE).

[0011] In summary, this technology also provides a connection system for connecting structural pipes in modular aquaculture structures.

[0012] In summary, this technology also provides a structural module for aquaculture structures.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention, a complete set of components for a modular aquaculture structure is provided, the complete set of components comprising:

[0014] Multiple structural pipes;

[0015] Multiple connectors are used to receive one or more portions of the multiple structural pipes.

[0016] According to another aspect of the present invention, a modular aquaculture cage assembly structure is provided, comprising:

[0017] One or more adjacent net cages, each net cage having spaced-apart peripheral walls surrounding a cavity for containing aquatic organisms, and comprising:

[0018] A circumferential frame, comprising multiple tubes arranged along the perimeter edge;

[0019] Multiple node connectors are disposed at the ends of the multiple pipes to form frame nodes; and

[0020] Multiple reinforcing supports are connected between one pipe of the circumferential frame and other pipes and are spaced apart along its length.

[0021] In one implementation, a pipe is provided extending along one wall edge.

[0022] In one implementation, multiple pipes are provided between node connectors extending along a wall edge.

[0023] In one implementation, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, or twelve pipes are provided extending along a wall edge between the node connectors.

[0024] In one implementation, one or more support mounts are provided for mounting the reinforcing support onto the pipe.

[0025] In one embodiment, the support mount is configured to be installed in the middle of the pipe.

[0026] In one implementation, the support mount can be selectively moved along the pipe.

[0027] In one embodiment, the support mounting base is fixed to or integrally formed with the connecting bracket, which is connected to a single pipe or connects one or more pipes together at the middle of the pipe.

[0028] In one implementation, multiple connecting supports are provided to form a tubular bundle.

[0029] In one implementation, a mesh mounting base is provided, configured to be fixed to one or more pipes.

[0030] In one embodiment, the mesh mounting base is fixed to or integrally formed with the connecting bracket, which is connected to a single pipe or connects one or more pipes together at the middle of the pipe.

[0031] In one embodiment, the mesh mounting base includes a guide rail receiving portion.

[0032] In one embodiment, the mesh mounting bracket includes a guide rail for receiving the edge of the mesh or the mesh rope.

[0033] In one implementation, the guide rail extends from one guide rail receiving part to another guide rail receiving part.

[0034] In one implementation, connecting brackets are installed at intervals of 1 meter, 2 meters, 3 meters, 4 meters, or 5 meters along the pipe.

[0035] In one embodiment, the support mount includes two support mounting positions, such that two support ends can be secured to the support mount (and the tubing).

[0036] In one embodiment, the support mount includes a pivoting structure that allows the support angle to be adjusted.

[0037] In one embodiment, the support is made of glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP).

[0038] In one implementation, the Young's modulus of the support is approximately 42 GPa.

[0039] In one implementation, the linear weight of the support is approximately 1.76 kg / m.

[0040] In one embodiment, the fracture strength of the support is approximately 1000 kN.

[0041] In one implementation, the diameter of the support member is approximately 27 mm.

[0042] In one embodiment, the mesh is made of Kikkonet and fixed to the guide rail. The mesh is made of monofilament with a diameter of about 2.5 mm, a tensile strength of about 230 MPa, an elongation at break of about 20%, and a mesh size of about 35 mm.

[0043] In one implementation, the pipe is made of HDPE.

[0044] In one implementation, the density of HDPE is approximately 958 kg / m³.

[0045] In one implementation, the Young's modulus of HDPE is 1.0 GPa.

[0046] In one embodiment, the cage assembly structure includes multiple supports configured to extend between one or more tubes to prevent predators from entering and to provide a lattice wall for the cage to enhance frame strength.

[0047] In one implementation, the cage assembly structure employs multiple grid-type cage structures, with the walls of each cage supported by rods extending obliquely between adjacent circumferential pipes.

[0048] In one implementation, the pipe includes multiple cavities to accommodate different ballast configurations—such as air, water, sand, metal, etc.

[0049] In one implementation, each pipe has a selected or preset buoyancy: for example, one or more upper circumferential pipes surrounding the top or opening of one or more cages may be filled with air and / or water; one or more bottom circumferential pipes surrounding the bottom of the cage may be filled with sand; and one or more vertical pipes connecting the bottom and top pipes may be filled with water and / or sand.

[0050] In one implementation, in a bundle of tubing arranged along the circumferential edge, each tubing may have a selected buoyancy and may be replaced with tubing having a different buoyancy during maintenance. This can be achieved by loosening and removing the end of the tubing from the node connector and replacing it with another tubing with a different buoyancy.

[0051] In one implementation, a cladding layer may be provided on the exterior of a single or bundled circumferential tube.

[0052] In one implementation, the overlay is an HDPE board.

[0053] In one embodiment, HDPE is thermoformed and bent to wrap around the outside of a single or bundled tube, and then extruded and welded to form a sleeve covering the circumferential tube. This covering is particularly suitable for the bottom circumferential tube to inhibit biofouling between the tube and other components and to reduce drag from ocean currents and waves.

[0054] In one implementation, a top cover is provided on top of the cage.

[0055] In one implementation, the roof provides additional space in the form of a dome or vault and includes frame members extending circumferentially from the top frame tubing to the central area.

[0056] In one implementation, the roof frame is pyramidal, but it can also be conical, truncated conical, single-slope, or other shapes.

[0057] In one implementation, the roof is protected from birds by a wire mesh wall.

[0058] In one implementation, the top cover does not prevent fish from leaping out of the water.

[0059] In one embodiment, the top cover includes at least one waterproof membrane that can transmit or block light but is waterproof, thereby creating air chambers when the cage assembly structure is submerged, which is beneficial to the health of the fish and extends the time when the cage assembly structure can be submerged.

[0060] In one implementation, a sludge collection tank is provided.

[0061] In one implementation, the sludge collection tank is identical in structure and form to the top cover.

[0062] In one implementation, the top cover and the mesh and / or membrane of the sludge collection tank are provided with access ports.

[0063] In one implementation, the access panel includes a zipper similar to a tent end panel.

[0064] In one implementation scheme, a variable ballast tank is provided.

[0065] In one implementation, the variable ballast tank can be horizontally positioned.

[0066] In one implementation scheme, the ballast tanks are arranged vertically.

[0067] In one implementation, the variable ballast tank is arranged around the upper circumferential frame.

[0068] In one implementation scheme, each compartment has two variable ballast chambers in its vertical circumferential frame.

[0069] In one implementation, each ballast tank is constructed of vertical HDPE or aluminum tubing, closed at the top and open at the bottom. A valve at the top controls the height of the cage relative to the water surface. Injecting air into the valve causes the cage assembly to float, while releasing air causes it to submerge. The valve can be used selectively on either the left or right sides to control the cage's lateral or longitudinal tilt.

[0070] In one implementation, a single-point anchoring system is provided.

[0071] In one implementation scheme, a backup secondary cable is provided.

[0072] In one embodiment, the assembly also includes a net or aquatic organism attachment structure configured to be mounted on a net mounting base, pipe, or connector.

[0073] In one implementation, the netting can be a culture cage, an aquatic organism attachment structure, a culture trough, or a double-layered netting, one layer of which is permeable and the other layer is impermeable.

[0074] According to one aspect of the present invention, a structural module for aquaculture structures is provided, the structural module comprising:

[0075] Pipes; and

[0076] A connector is used to connect a portion of one pipe to another.

[0077] In one implementation, the pipe is sealed to provide buoyancy.

[0078] In one implementation, a buoyancy controller is provided to change the buoyancy within the pipe.

[0079] In one implementation, inlets and outlets for water and gas are provided to alter the buoyancy within the pipe.

[0080] In one implementation, valves are provided at the inlet and outlet to control the flow of air and water into and out of the pipes.

[0081] In one implementation, the inlet and outlet are located on the connector.

[0082] In one implementation, the inlet and outlet are located on the pipe.

[0083] According to one aspect of the present invention, a node connector is provided for connecting pipes together in an aquaculture structure, the node connector comprising:

[0084] main body;

[0085] Multiple pipe splices, each used to splice at least a portion of the pipe.

[0086] In one implementation, the connector body is flat.

[0087] In one implementation, the main body of the connector is a plate.

[0088] In one embodiment, the connector body is a hollow cube with spaced-apart walls and one or more openings on the walls to receive the pipe ends.

[0089] In one embodiment, the connector body is a flat plate with four receiving holes for receiving the ends of the pipe.

[0090] In one implementation, the connector body includes four pipe receiving parts.

[0091] In one implementation, the connector body includes two, three, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten or more receiving parts.

[0092] In one implementation, the connector body is cubic in shape.

[0093] In one implementation, the receiving part is in the form of a groove.

[0094] In one embodiment, the receiving part is in the form of a through hole passing through the plate or the main body wall.

[0095] In one implementation, the cube is a hollow structure.

[0096] In one implementation, the main body is spherical, elliptical, cuboid, or similar in shape.

[0097] In one implementation, the receiving section is configured to receive multiple pipes extending in the same direction to form a pipe bundle.

[0098] In one implementation, the receiving section is configured to receive multiple pipes extending in different directions to form a node at the apex of the structural module.

[0099] In one embodiment, the connector includes a bracket interface for supporting the handrail.

[0100] In one embodiment, the connector includes a mounting base for mounting the channel plate.

[0101] In one implementation, the assembly includes one or more channel boards.

[0102] In one implementation, the channel plate is made of HDPE material.

[0103] In one implementation, the pipe is made of HDPE.

[0104] In one implementation, the bracket interface is made of HDPE material.

[0105] In one implementation, the connector is made of HDPE material.

[0106] In one embodiment, each face of the cube has through holes to receive tubing from six directions.

[0107] According to one aspect of the present invention, a fish farming cage or marine organism aquaculture structure is provided, the fish farming cage comprising a plurality of modules, each module comprising:

[0108] Pipes; and

[0109] A connector is used to connect a portion of one pipe to another.

[0110] According to one aspect of the present invention, a fish farming cage or marine organism module structure is provided, the fish farming cage module comprising:

[0111] Multiple pipes;

[0112] Multiple connection nodes, including pipe receiving parts configured to receive pipe ends from multiple directions;

[0113] The multiple pipes are connected to the connection nodes to form a lattice structure that is basically cubic.

[0114] According to one aspect of the present invention, a method for forming a structural module for aquaculture structures is provided, the method comprising the following steps:

[0115] A connecting node is used to connect one pipe to other similar pipes, wherein the connecting node is a body having a receiving part extending in different directions;

[0116] The arrangement is to form a lattice structure module.

[0117] According to one aspect of the present invention, a fish farming cage for offshore aquaculture is provided, the fish farming cage comprising:

[0118] One or more fish cage modules, each module comprising:

[0119] Buoyancy components;

[0120] A frame operably connected to the buoyancy component;

[0121] Fish enclosure netting that can be operatively connected to a frame;

[0122] The frame includes connectors for connecting with mating connectors on similar frames or buoyancy components.

[0123] According to another aspect of the present invention, a fish farming cage frame for offshore aquaculture is provided, the fish farming cage frame comprising:

[0124] One or more connectors for connecting buoyancy components;

[0125] One or more connectors for connection with mating connectors on the fish farming cage module; and

[0126] Fish enclosure nets that can be operatively connected to the frame assembly structure.

[0127] According to another aspect of the present invention, a fish farming cage module for offshore aquaculture is provided, the fish farming cage module comprising:

[0128] Buoyancy components; and

[0129] A frame operably connected to the buoyancy assembly, the frame comprising:

[0130] One or more connectors for connecting buoyancy components; and

[0131] One or more connectors for connection with mating connectors on the fish farming cage module; and

[0132] Fish enclosure nets that can be operatively connected to the frame assembly structure.

[0133] Additional feature – gantry structure

[0134] According to another aspect of the present invention, an offshore fish farming cage is provided, comprising:

[0135] Buoyancy components for floating in the surface area of ​​offshore waters;

[0136] A frame, operably mounted on a buoyancy assembly, with at least a portion of the frame above the water surface; and

[0137] One or more fish enclosures are operatively connected to the frame assembly structure.

[0138] The offshore fish farming cages are arranged as follows: elevated operation and maintenance equipment, as well as one or more elevated operation areas, are installed on the frame. The purpose of this arrangement is to allow for safe and convenient maintenance of the fish farming cages, safe and convenient feeding of the fish within the cages, and to keep the cages away from waves and sea surface fluctuations, while ensuring that the fish within the cages remain safely below the ocean wave surface.

[0139] Additional feature – The fencing can be submerged beneath the waves.

[0140] According to another aspect of the present invention, an offshore fish farming cage is provided, comprising:

[0141] Buoyancy components for floating in the surface area of ​​offshore waters;

[0142] A frame, operably mounted on a buoyancy assembly, with at least a portion of the frame above the water surface; and

[0143] One or more fish enclosure nets, operably connected to the frame assembly structure;

[0144] The frame and / or fish enclosure can be operatively installed to move between an upper and lower position: when in the upper position, the frame and / or fish enclosure is adjacent to the water surface, and when in the lower position, the frame and / or fish enclosure is located below the water surface, at a maximum depth of approximately 5–40 m.

[0145] The offshore fish farming cages are arranged such that the frames and / or fish enclosures can enter relatively calm waters at different times as needed, or at least waters with different water quality characteristics, including areas with different water temperatures, flow rates, or light intensities, to meet the aquaculture requirements.

[0146] buoyancy components

[0147] In one embodiment, the buoyancy assembly includes one or more buoyancy elements for achieving floating on water.

[0148] In one embodiment, one or more buoyancy elements comprise components made of one or more buoyancy materials such as HDPE.

[0149] In one embodiment, one or more buoyancy elements comprise rigid hollow members.

[0150] In one embodiment, one or more buoyancy elements include flexible hollow members.

[0151] In one implementation, the buoyancy element is elongated.

[0152] In one implementation, the buoyancy element is in the form of a ring.

[0153] In one implementation, the buoyancy assembly includes a plurality of elongated buoyancy elements.

[0154] In one implementation, one or more buoyancy elements are fixed buoyancy.

[0155] In one implementation, one or more buoyancy elements are variable buoyancy.

[0156] In one implementation, the buoyancy component includes a depth indicator.

[0157] In one implementation, one or more buoyancy elements include a depth indicator.

[0158] In one implementation, one or more buoyancy elements include a depth sensor.

[0159] In one implementation, the loop extends at least partially around the upper part of the frame.

[0160] In one embodiment, the buoyancy assembly includes multiple buoyant bodies in the form of blocks, cuboids, tubes, and other suitable shapes, for holding the frame and the fish enclosure net near the water surface.

[0161] In one embodiment, the buoyancy element or buoyancy body is provided with inlets and outlets for introducing and discharging gas and / or liquid. The gas may be from a compressor or compressed air source to adjust the buoyancy; the liquid may be from surrounding offshore seawater.

[0162] In one implementation, the depth indicator is pivotally connected to the frame such that the depth indicator extends vertically when the frame is in the lower position and is placed horizontally when the frame is in the upper position.

[0163] Frame – Descent-type structure

[0164] In one implementation, the frame includes one or more gantry frames for supporting the elevated work area and / or mountings for machinery, infrastructure, or equipment, protecting them from ocean waves.

[0165] The gantry can take any suitable form—such as catenary, arch, semi-circular, A-frame, or other forms that allow for elevated operation above the waves. The gantry can be installed at an angle using truss or prefabricated panel components to form an equipment operating platform approximately 10 meters above the waves.

[0166] In one embodiment, one or more gantry frames include upwardly extending legs mounted on a portion or component of a buoyancy assembly, and connecting top bridge components extending between the legs.

[0167] In one implementation, the elevated work area includes a work platform that is operable or otherwise connected to the gantry.

[0168] In one implementation, the frame includes one or more mounting bases for mounting on the buoyancy component.

[0169] In one implementation, the framework includes one or more elevated work areas for working above the waves.

[0170] Frame – Connection Structure

[0171] To connect the frame components together to form a larger modular fish farming cage, some components of the frame are equipped with connecting elements.

[0172] In one implementation, the connecting elements can be automatically aligned.

[0173] In one embodiment, the connecting element includes a damping material such as a rubber fender.

[0174] In one embodiment, the connecting element includes male and female mating parts to achieve interconnection.

[0175] In one embodiment, the connecting element is substantially as described in patent publication WO2012026883, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0176] In one embodiment, the component includes an elastic coating layer such as rubber.

[0177] In one implementation, a connecting plate is provided on a frame member, on which a male component and a female component are provided.

[0178] Gantry crane

[0179] In one embodiment, the operable connection to the work platform includes a trolley that moves along the top bridge member of the gantry.

[0180] In one embodiment, the operable connection to the work platform includes a crane winch for lifting the work platform from the gantry top bridge component.

[0181] In one implementation, each module includes a guide rail for connection to guide rails on other modules, allowing the gantry trolley to extend from one module to another, transporting the work platform from one end, side, or area of ​​an offshore fish farming cage to the other end, side, or area.

[0182] In one implementation, the trolley is self-powered.

[0183] In one implementation, the self-powered component is a supercapacitor.

[0184] In one implementation, the guide rails supply power to the trolley at discrete stations or via electrified rails.

[0185] In one implementation, the gantry is equipped with and operable or otherwise mounted with various types of equipment, including electrical equipment such as energy storage, power distribution and / or power generation equipment.

[0186] In one implementation, the power generation equipment includes generators and power distribution devices such as solar panels, wind turbines, batteries, and / or other onboard energy storage components.

[0187] In one implementation, the framework includes a docking station for supply ships.

[0188] In one implementation, the gantry includes a boom for loading and unloading feed and equipment from docked vessels.

[0189] In one implementation, the gantry is equipped with lighting.

[0190] In one implementation, electrical equipment supplies power to the crane winch and pulley.

[0191] Fish farming enclosure

[0192] In one implementation, the fish farming enclosure includes one or more layers of flexible material, in the form of netting, mesh, or membrane.

[0193] In one implementation, the fish enclosure includes a rigid material housing, such as concrete, thermosetting polymer, molding polymer, or other suitable housing material.

[0194] In one implementation, the fencing consists of two layers, separated by a selected or preset spacing. The spacing can be adjusted or fixed.

[0195] In one implementation, the enclosure uses a double-layered mesh structure to deter predators and prevent fish from escaping.

[0196] In one implementation, one or more layers of material form the sidewalls, bottom, and top closure structure of the fence.

[0197] In one implementation, a ring-shaped counterweight is set to press down the flexible material to form a fish farming enclosure of a selected or preset volume.

[0198] In one implementation, the bottom wall is constructed using a substantially impermeable membrane to collect waste.

[0199] In one implementation, a vacuum cleaning system is provided to remove waste inside the enclosure.

[0200] In one implementation, a fish bath system is provided, including a pump and piping system, for removing fish from the enclosure net and transferring them to the bath.

[0201] In one implementation, the medicated bath system includes a medicated bath pool.

[0202] In one implementation, the medicated bath is equipped with a freshwater inlet.

[0203] In one implementation, the medicated bath is equipped with an inlet from outside the fish farming enclosure.

[0204] In one implementation, the module includes a robotic cleaning brush for removing biofouling, uneaten bait, and other marine organisms from the enclosure material.

[0205] In one implementation, one or more automatic feeding systems are installed on the gantry.

[0206] In one implementation, the automatic feeding system includes piping and distribution manifolds for delivering feed to different areas of the enclosure.

[0207] In one implementation, one or more modules include a flow deflector mounted on the frame for blocking marine predators or debris such as containers and floating objects.

[0208] In one implementation, the module includes a floating platform for anchoring or mooring. The floating platform may be equipped with energy storage, power generation, and other equipment systems to support one or more modules.

[0209] In one implementation, the floating platform includes one or more cables extending to the module frame and one or more cables extending to the seabed mooring structure.

[0210] Framework – Second Implementation Plan: The fencing can be submerged beneath the waves.

[0211] In one implementation, the frame may not have a gantry, but is instead configured to always be at least partially located in the upper ocean layer. In this implementation, when strong waves are predicted or encountered, the frame can be moved to a lower position to avoid swells, heave, and other effects.

[0212] In one embodiment, the frame is operatively connected to the buoyancy assembly to move between an upper and lower position. The travel distance is approximately 15m, but can also be 3m, 4m, 5m, 6m, 7m, 8m, 9m, 10m, 11m, 12m, 13m, or 14m.

[0213] Moving downwards to the lower position is achieved by filling at least a portion of the buoyancy element with water or sand to reduce the buoyancy of the buoyancy assembly. Attached Figure Description

[0214] To better understand this technology, the following describes each implementation scheme in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0215] Figure 1 is an isometric view of the 6×2 marine HDPE cage assembly structure;

[0216] Figure 2 is a top view of the assembled 6×2 marine HDPE assembly;

[0217] Figure 3 is the rear view;

[0218] Figure 4 is a top view of the connector used to connect the modular tubular components;

[0219] Figure 5 is a side view of the connector shown in Figure 4;

[0220] Figure 6 is an isometric view of the connector shown in Figure 4;

[0221] Figure 7 is an isometric view of the bracket used for mounting to the connector;

[0222] Figure 8 is an isometric view of the connector in another embodiment;

[0223] Figure 9 is an isometric view of the corner assembly structure of the fish cage module assembly;

[0224] Figure 10 is a top view of the first embodiment of the present invention—a fish farming cage with six modules;

[0225] Figure 11 shows the isometric, top, bottom, and side views of the connector used to connect the single tubes in the lattice shown in Figure 12.

[0226] Figure 12 shows the isometric view of the fully assembled structural module;

[0227] Figure 13 is a top view of another offshore modular fish farming cage layout;

[0228] Figure 14 is a side view of the fish cage shown in Figure 13;

[0229] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the fish farming cage shown in Figure 13;

[0230] Figure 16 is a top view of another embodiment of the present invention—a fish farming net cage with different structural arrangements of the same six modules;

[0231] Figure 17 is a longitudinal sectional view of the fish cage shown in Figure 16 in the lower / submerged position;

[0232] Figure 18 is a longitudinal sectional view of the fish cage shown in Figure 16 in the upper / raised position;

[0233] Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of the fish cage shown in Figure 16 in the lower / submerged position;

[0234] Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of the fish cage shown in Figure 16 in the upper / raised position;

[0235] Figure 21 is a top view of the main body of a fish cage in either Figure 13 or Figure 16, with 20 modules arranged in a 10×2 configuration, showing that water and nutrients can flow through the flexible walls of the fish cage in each module.

[0236] Figure 22 is a three-dimensional view of the fish farming cage of type Figure 13, which contains six modules;

[0237] Figure 23 shows a three-dimensional view of two fish farming cages of the type shown in Figure 16 side by side, each containing six modules, one of which is in the submerged position and the other is in the raised position;

[0238] Figure 24 is a perspective view of the connector to be installed on the frame members and / or buoyancy members for connection with other members on the cage;

[0239] Figure 25 shows four sectional views of the connector in Figure 24, illustrating the engagement process from left to right.

[0240] Figure 26 is an isometric rendering of the support module for the semi-submersible fish farming cage shown in Figures 16–20.

[0241] Figure 27 is a side view of the semi-submersible support module shown in Figure 26;

[0242] Figure 28 is a three-dimensional view of the SeaFisher structure, including multiple detailed views;

[0243] Figure 29 shows a side view of the submersible structure at the water surface and at the descent position;

[0244] Figure 30 shows a view of the connector's apex compartment;

[0245] Figure 31 shows another isometric view of the submersible structure, illustrating various finite element elements used for stress analysis;

[0246] Figure 32 is a schematic diagram of the mooring cables;

[0247] Figure 33 is a side view of the wire mesh cage, showing the top cover and the sludge collection tank;

[0248] Figure 34 is an isometric view of a wire mesh grid, showing the connecting bracket with an integrated support mounting base and a wire mesh mounting base;

[0249] Figure 35 is an isometric detail view of the top of the wire mesh cell, showing four bundled tubes forming a circumferential frame along the edge, reinforcing supports between adjacent circumferential frames, and connecting brackets with support mounting bases and guide rail mounting bases.

[0250] Figure 36 is an isometric view of the connecting bracket, showing the double pivot support mounting base and the guide rail mounting base;

[0251] Figure 37 is an isometric view of a multi-compartment fish farming cage, showing the variable ballast tank and the upper circumferential walkway;

[0252] Figure 38 is a cross-sectional view of the floating state of the variable ballast tank;

[0253] Figure 39 is a cross-sectional view of the variable ballast tank in its submerged state;

[0254] Figure 40 is an isometric view of the front of the multi-compartment wire mesh cage assembly structure, showing the flow guide frame and three detailed views—the top connecting plate, the middle and bottom flared openings—to reduce cable wear.

[0255] Figure 41 is a side view of the multi-compartment cage assembly structure for fish farming in the water surface state, showing the anchoring arrangement including the main cable and the spare auxiliary cable.

[0256] Figure 42 shows a similar side view of the cage assembly structure in the submerged position. Detailed Implementation

[0257] As shown in the figure, a complete set of components for constructing a modular aquaculture structure is provided, and the assembled structure is marked as 1. The components of complete set 1 are mainly made of HDPE.

[0258] The figure also shows connector 2, which is used to connect the structural pipes in the modular aquaculture structure 1.

[0259] Structure 1 can be constructed from a set of components including pipes 4 and connectors 2 and 2a, or it can be formed from sub-assemblies or structural modules 3, and then assembled with other sub-assemblies or structural modules 3 to form aquaculture structure 1. Sub-assemblies 3 can take the form of pipes 4 and connectors 2.

[0260] The assembled modular aquaculture structure 1 in Figure 1 consists of multiple HDPE (or similar structural metal / polymer) pipes 4, bundled together by connecting brackets 2a. The ends of the bundled pipes are fastened to the grooves of the node connectors 2. Single pipes 4 can also be installed along the circumferential edge, as shown in Figure 12.

[0261] The assembled assembly 1 also includes multiple reinforcing supports 6 configured to be mounted on support mounts 2c of connecting brackets 2a. The support mounts 2c are pivotable, allowing the supports 6 to extend between one or more connecting brackets 2a and the support mount 2c of another connecting bracket 2a on another pipe 4, reducing bending and sagging of the pipe 4. The supports 6 provide predator protection for fish within the cage and form a lattice wall to enhance structural strength. The pivoting support mounts can provide angled or square supports as needed. Each connecting bracket 2a has two support mounts 2c.

[0262] The assembly structure also includes a mesh cover 9 (shown in Figure 28), mounted on a guide rail mounting base 2d. The guide rail mounting base 2d accommodates an HDPE guide rail 2e, allowing the mesh cover to be tied or threaded onto the guide rail 2e. The mesh cover, made of Kikkonet and fixed to the guide rail 2e, is made of monofilament with a diameter of approximately 2.5 mm, a tensile strength of approximately 230 MPa, an elongation at break of approximately 20%, and a mesh size of approximately 35 mm.

[0263] Netting can be used for aquaculture cages, aquatic organism attachment structures, aquaculture troughs, or double-layered netting, with one layer being permeable and the other impermeable.

[0264] The structural arrangement is as follows: each cage 75 is formed by a circumferential frame of bundled tubing 4, with the ends of the tubing connected by node connectors 2. The frame is reinforced by reinforcing support members 6 installed on the support mounting base 2c along the frame tubing 4. The cage assembly structure 1 contains 12 cages 75 arranged in a 6×2 pattern, adjacent to each other within the same cage assembly structure.

[0265] Pipe 4 provides buoyancy to the structure through a seal. A buoyancy controller (detailed below) can be installed to adjust the buoyancy within the pipe, allowing the structure to move between an upper and lower position; in the lower position, the upper structural components are below the water surface. Water and air inlets / outlets (not shown) can be installed to adjust the buoyancy within the pipe. The inlets / outlets can be located on the connectors or on the pipe itself. Pipe 4 is made of HDPE material, which is lightweight and high-strength, corrosion-resistant in marine environments, recyclable, and has anti-biofouling properties, making it suitable for marine environments.

[0266] However, the illustrated implementation scheme includes variable ballast tanks 50. These tanks are vertically arranged and circumferentially around the top opening, with two tanks on each cell's vertical circumferential frame. Each ballast tank 50 is constructed of vertical HDPE or aluminum tubing, closed at the top and open at the bottom. A top valve controls the height of the cage relative to the water surface. Injecting air into the valve causes the cage assembly to float, while releasing air causes it to submerge. The valve can be used selectively on either the left or right sides to control the cage's lateral or longitudinal tilt.

[0267] The diagram shows the top cover 30 above each net cage 75. The top cover increases the volume by approximately 6% for fish jumping and activity. The top cover 30 provides additional space in the form of a dome or vault and includes frame members 32 extending circumferentially from the top opening to the frame tubing 4a and then to the central area 4b.

[0268] The top cover frame 32 is pyramidal in shape, but can also be conical, truncated conical, single-slope, or other shapes. The top cover 30 advantageously provides bird protection through the net top structure. The net top structure also includes at least one impermeable membrane 33, which is light-permeable or light-blocking but waterproof, thereby forming air chambers when the net cage assembly structure is submerged, which is beneficial to the health of fish and extends the submerged duration of the net cage assembly structure. As shown in the figure, the top cover membrane 33 is only a part of the top cover.

[0269] The diagram shows a sludge collection trough 40. The sludge collection trough 40 is structurally and formally identical to the top cover 30, providing approximately 6% more living space for fish. Both the top cover 30 and the sludge collection trough 40 have access ports 45 in their mesh and / or membrane structures, which include zippers similar to those on tent end panels.

[0270] Intermediate connectors and node connectors

[0271] Connector 2 is an important component of the assembly and structure, used to connect pipe 4, and includes a main body 8 and multiple pipe receiving parts 9, each for receiving at least a portion of the pipe. This document describes at least two types of connectors: intermediate connector 2a and node connectors 2 and 2b.

[0272] The main body of the intermediate connector 2a is a flat plate, which can be in the form of sheet metal. The intermediate connector bundles the pipes 4 together between the pipe ends, providing additional support. The intermediate main body receiving portion 9 is a through-hole passing through the sheet metal. The receiving portion 9 is configured to receive multiple pipes extending in the same direction to form a pipe bundle, and to enhance support and strength after assembly. The plate connector also includes a bracket interface 80 for supporting the handrail 66. Connector 2 also includes a mounting base 67 for mounting the channel plate 68. The assembly also includes one or more channel plates 68. The plate connector body 2a includes four pipe receiving portions, but can also have two, three, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more receiving portions.

[0273] The main body of node connectors 2 and 2b is cubic. The receiving part 9 is in the form of a groove, or it can be a through hole 9 passing through the plate or the main body wall. The cube is a hollow structure, and it can also be spherical, elliptical, cuboid or similar shape. The receiving part 9 of node connectors 2 and 2b is constructed to receive multiple pipes extending in different directions, forming a node at the apex of the structural module.

[0274] The channel plate, bracket interface, connectors and pipes are made of HDPE material, and have the same advantages as mentioned above.

[0275] After assembly, a fish farming cage or marine aquaculture structure is formed. The fish farming cage module includes: multiple pipes 4 and multiple connecting nodes 2 and 2b. Each node includes a pipe receiving part configured to receive pipe ends from multiple directions. The multiple pipes are connected to the connecting nodes 2 and 2b to form a lattice structure that is basically cubic.

[0276] The assembly method of the structural module for aquaculture includes the following steps: using connection node 2 to connect pipe 4 to other similar pipes, the connection node being the main body with a receiving part extending in different directions, and the arrangement is to form a lattice structural module.

[0277] Other optional features

[0278] Figures 13 to 27 illustrate a modular offshore fish farming cage installed in an offshore marine environment 5. The first embodiment of the fish farming cage is generally labeled 10 (Figures 13, 14, 15, 23), and the second embodiment is generally labeled 110 (Figures 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24). Similar features in both embodiments are labeled using the same reference numerals, consistent with the previous description (10, 110, and 210 represent fish farming cages in different embodiments, respectively).

[0279] Implementation Plan 1 – Floating Gantry Structure

[0280] Figures 13, 14, 15, and 23 show a fish cage for offshore aquaculture, generally labeled 10, comprising six modules 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16. The modules are arranged longitudinally, which has the advantage that modules 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 are protected from debris carried by ocean currents; however, it should be understood that the modules can also be arranged laterally, in a ring, in a cross pattern, or in other arrangements. An alternative arrangement is shown in Figure 16, where the fish cage is generally labeled 110, comprising two rows of ten modules arranged side-by-side. The modules in Figure 16 are connected together by connectors 120 (20 in Figures 13–15) located on the sides, front, and rear.

[0281] The fish farming cage 10 includes a buoyancy assembly 30, which includes one or more buoyancy elements 32 for floating in an offshore environment 5. The one or more buoyancy elements 32 include rigid hollow members 34. The function of the buoyancy elements 32 is to maintain the fish farming cage 10 at the surface of the ocean 5. The buoyancy elements 32 form local loops composed of discrete members, extending along the sides 17, 18 of the cage 10, thereby keeping the fish farming cage 10 afloat on the surface of the ocean 5.

[0282] The fish farming cage 10 also includes a frame 40, providing structure and form for the buoyancy assembly 30. The frame 40 includes outer frame members and a gantry 42 connected to the buoyancy assembly 30. The gantry 42 supports the elevated working area 44 and / or mountings for machinery, infrastructure, or equipment (such as solar panel and wind turbine mountings 46) away from waves. For efficiency, the gantry 42 is illustrated as a truss 43. The gantry 42 also includes upwardly extending legs 47, 48 mounted on a portion or component of the frame 40 and / or the buoyancy assembly 30, and a connecting top bridge member 49 extending between the legs 47, 48.

[0283] The elevated work area 44 includes a work platform 50, operablely connected to a gantry crane 51, which uses trolleys 52 on guide rails 53. The guide rails 53 facilitate connection to guide rails 53 on other modules, allowing the gantry trolleys 52 to extend from one module (e.g., 11) to another module (e.g., 12), transporting the work platform 50 from one end, side 17, or area of ​​the offshore fish farming cage to the other end, side 18. The crane 51 includes a winch (not shown) for raising and lowering the work platform 50. The work platform 50 and the gantry can also be made of perforated or solid HDPE material.

[0284] A fish enclosure 60 is installed on the frame 40 or buoyancy component 30 for enclosing fish 2 to be cultured. The enclosure 60 includes one or more layers of flexible material 61, illustrated as a mesh 62. The flexible material layer 61 may contain partially enclosed areas, forming a membrane 63. For example, in the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the bottom wall 64 is in the form of a membrane 63 to collect uneaten feed and biological waste such as feces for removal and recycling.

[0285] Other arrangements can also be used, including wall panels, to reduce the impact of ocean currents, provide a buffer for fish, and prevent them from continuously swimming against the current. The fish cage 110 has two layers, 161 and 161A, which can be separated by a selected or preset spacing. A ring-shaped counterweight 65 is used to press down the flexible material 61, forming a fish enclosure 60 with a selected or preset volume.

[0286] To achieve the modularity described in this specification, the frame includes connectors 20 and 120, which are in the form of connector elements 70 and are connected to mating connector elements 72 on similar frames 40 or buoyancy components 30. Connecting elements 70 and 72 are self-aligning and include damping materials 73 such as rubber fenders 74. The connecting elements include male parts 75 and female parts 76 for interconnection. The illustrated connecting elements 70 and 72 are basically similar to those described in patent publication WO2012026883, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. For example, the male 75 and female 76 connecting elements can adopt a male D-shape and female V-shape structure, allowing for convenient interconnection even when not aligned, as shown in Figures 25 and 26.

[0287] Various types of equipment, including electrical equipment 77, such as energy storage, power distribution, and / or power generation equipment 78, are mounted on and operable on the gantry 42. Power generation equipment 78 includes generators and power distribution devices, such as solar panels 82, wind turbines 84, batteries, and / or other onboard energy storage components (not shown).

[0288] The gantry 42 includes a supply vessel 92 berthing at a dock 79. The gantry 42 also includes a boom 90 for loading and unloading feed and equipment from the berthed vessel 92. The gantry 42 is also equipped with lighting fixtures 99.

[0289] The diagram illustrates the arrangement of the offshore fish farming cage 10: the working area and equipment are set at a height significantly higher than where waves might occur offshore. This elevated working area is practically valuable because the wave energy is enormous and far greater than nearshore waves. Being away from the waves allows for safe and convenient maintenance of the fish farming enclosure 60, safe and convenient feeding of the fish within the enclosure, and ensures that the fish within the enclosure 60 remain safely below the ocean wave surface.

[0290] Implementation Plan 2 – Submersible Fishing Structure

[0291] Another implementation of the fish farming cage is designated as 110. This implementation shares the same modular features, with multiple frames or buoyancy components connected to form modules via connectors 70 and 72, but frame 140 does not have a gantry. Instead, frame 40 remains submerged for most of its service life, either above the waterline (Figure 19) or at depths up to 15 meters (half the offshore wavelength, Figure 18).

[0292] Not only does the frame 140 differ from that of Implementation Scheme 1 (floating gantry structure 10), but the buoyancy component 132 also differs. In Implementation Scheme 1 (floating gantry structure 10), the buoyancy of the buoyancy component 32 is fixed, while in this Implementation Scheme 2 (the seine net can submerge below the waves 110), the buoyancy of the buoyancy component 132 is variable.

[0293] When the controller adjusts the buoyancy of the buoyancy element 132, the frame 140 moves between an upper position (Fig. 19) and a lower position (Fig. 18). As the frame moves up and down near the ocean surface, a buoyancy depth indicator 145 is provided, which is hinged and pivotally connected to the frame. When the frame is in the lower position, the depth indicator extends vertically (Fig. 18), and when the frame is in the upper position, the depth indicator is placed horizontally (Fig. 19).

[0294] The buoyancy element 132 is in the form of a ring 146, extending at least partially around the upper part 148 of the frame 140. For adjusting the buoyancy of the buoyancy element, inlets and outlets (not shown) are provided for introducing and discharging gas and / or liquid. The gas may be from a compressor or compressed air source (located on the floating platform 190) to adjust the buoyancy; the liquid may be from surrounding offshore seawater.

[0295] Figure 28 shows an isometric view of the submersible fishpond structure. The modular submersible fishpond structure can use any 2×n array of cubic net cages, with a side length of 20m. This manual uses a 2×6 array as an example (i.e., n=6); the overall dimensions are 120m×40m×20m (culture volume 96000m³). Based on a culture density of 15kg / m³, approximately 288,000 mature 5kg salmon can be cultured.

[0296] The submersible structure's frame is made of HDPE pipes, as shown in Figure 28 (13). HDPE composite structures (such as embedded steel mesh) can also be used, especially suitable for the frame in Implementation Scheme 1. HDPE was chosen because it has a high modulus of elasticity and impact resistance among polymer materials. Studies have shown that HDPE is resistant to rot, weathering, and biofouling, easy to mold and process, and has a higher cost-performance ratio compared to alternative materials when purchased in large quantities. Since HDPE has a lower density than seawater, ballast water and permanent fillers such as sand and seawater need to be filled into the HDPE pipes to keep the submersible structure underwater.

[0297] As shown in Figure 28 (11), HDPE connecting brackets are used to fix four bundled pipes arranged in a 2×2 array with a bracket spacing of 4m. The number of connecting brackets can be adjusted to obtain the required flexibility for the fish farming cage frame components. Handrails and walkways (1.5m wide) are installed on the top surface of the fish farming cage frame, as shown in Figure 28 (7–8).

[0298] Three continuous longitudinal HDPE pipes at the top are used as ballast pipes. These ballast pipes can adjust the air-to-seawater ratio to enable the submersible structure to submerge and surface, ensuring its survival in strong storms and the health of the fish. During submersion, the valve at the front end of the ballast pipe is opened (Fig. 28 (6)), and seawater is injected into the top longitudinal ballast pipes using the siphon effect, allowing the submersible structure to submerge and avoid strong surface waves (Fig. 29). After the storm, a dedicated supply vessel equipped with an air compressor injects compressed air into the rear end of the ballast pipe connected to the stern buoy (Fig. 1 (16)), discharging the ballast water and causing the submersible structure to surface.

[0299] The bow of the submersible structure is equipped with a rigid angular flow deflector made of HDPE sheet. The flow deflector is 11.5m high, of which 1.5m is above the water surface, with a total inclined length of 44m and a thickness of 40mm (Fig. 28 (5)). Its main function is to protect the submersible structure from direct impact from floating objects and to form a streamlined shape, reducing the drag force generated by waves and surface currents.

[0300] Kikkonet was used for the netting. As shown in Figure 28 (9), Kikkonet is a hexagonal twisted-pair net made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which has high strength, light weight, and anti-biofouling properties. Kikkonet has a wide range of applications and can be used in marine and terrestrial aquaculture structures, such as the Ocean Farm 1 and Innovasea's SeaStation fish cages. In the submersible fishing structure, the netting is fixed to the HDPE frame structure. To enhance the rigidity of the frame structure and the Kikkonet netting, a diagonal bracing system was installed, as shown in Figure 28 (10). The diagonal bracing is made of glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP), a durable and lightweight marine structural material. The diagonal bracing is tied to the 20m×20m Kikkonet netting to prevent the netting from deforming and to resist the invasion of wild predators.

[0301] The submersible structure is secured using a single-point mooring (SPM) system (Fig. 28 (1–4)), allowing it to steer with the wind and waves, minimizing environmental forces and accidental collisions with other vessels, and facilitating waste dispersal over a wider area. This SPM system comprises a suction anchor, a stop chain, a bow buoy, and a cable. The stop chain connects the cable to the seabed suction anchor. The stop chain is one-third the length of the total mooring cable, providing sufficient gripping weight for the submersible structure. The bow buoy is positioned to keep the cable near the surface, facilitating detachment of the submersible structure from the mooring system when towing is required (Fig. 29 (a)). The bow buoy is equipped with a mechanical or manual winch to extend its connection to the cable, serving as a marker buoy underwater and buffering adverse mooring forces transmitted to the submersible structure (such as lift during submersion) (Fig. 29 (b)).

[0302] In addition, a diving guidance system is provided, including 14 intermediate buoys, guide ropes and bottom counterweights, to keep the diving structure at a specified depth after diving; and 3 tail buoys are provided to fix the air inlet of the ballast pipe (Figure 28 (14–16)).

[0303] The outer diameter of the pipe is approximately 500 mm.

[0304] The complete set can also connect multiple feeding pipes, for which a feeding barge can be used. The feeding pipes from the feeding barge (vessel) can be connected to supports / handrails.

[0305] Implementation Plan 3 – Submersible Fishing Structure with Semi-Submersible Platform

[0306] One component of implementation scheme 2 may be a support module, as generally indicated by reference numeral 210 in Figures 26 and 27. This component supports the implementation schemes shown in Figures 16–20 and provides a semi-submersible platform assembly structure 240. The semi-submersible platform 240 is configured to elevate the support platform 240 above the waves via ballast column tubes 232.

[0307] The semi-submersible platform 240 includes a wind turbine 284 and other control cabins 286, as well as the other features described above.

[0308] Advantages

[0309] The advantages of this offshore fish farming cage are: the frame and / or the fish enclosure can be selectively raised as needed to obtain greater water flow and facilitate maintenance; it can also be selectively lowered to enter relatively calm waters below the sea surface. The cage can enter water layers with different water quality characteristics at different times, including areas with different water temperatures, current velocities, or light intensities, to meet the needs of aquaculture.

[0310] mooring

[0311] One or more modules 10, 110 include a flow deflector 95 mounted on frames 42, 142 for blocking marine predators or debris such as containers and floating objects.

[0312] Modules 10 and 110 also include a floating platform 94 for anchoring or mooring. The floating platform 94 may be equipped with energy storage, power generation, or other equipment systems to support one or more modules.

[0313] The floating platform 94 includes one or more cables 93 extending to the module frames 42, 142, and one or more cables 92 extending to the seabed mooring structure.

[0314] illustrate

[0315] Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0316] It should be understood that any prior art practices or literature cited in this article do not constitute an admission that they belong to common general knowledge in the field.

[0317] In the claims below and in the foregoing description of the invention, unless the context requires otherwise by express expression or necessary implied, the word “comprising” or variations thereof such as “including” are used in an open-ended sense, indicating the presence of the stated feature but not excluding the presence or addition of other features in the various embodiments of the invention.

[0318] Figure 28 shows the numbering characteristics as described below.

[0319] Marine fisheries system (1) suction anchor (2) vertical chain (3) mooring line (4) front buoy (5) protective cover (6) water inlet valve (7) walkway (8) handrail (9) kiko net (10) oblique mesh rod (11) connecting bracket (12) connecting box (13) HDPE pipe bundle (14) intermediate buoy (15) weight (16) rear buoy.

[0320] Figure 31 shows the numbering characteristics as described below.

[0321] The element types used in the marine fisheries model are: (1) truss elements for mooring lines and vertical ring chains; (2) membrane shell elements for protective padding; (3) beam elements for all pipes; and (4) truss elements for oblique grid members.

[0322] The numbering characteristics in Figure 32 are described below.

[0323] Schematic diagram of mooring cable model: (a) Marine fishery equipment in surface state, (b) Marine fishery equipment in submerged state. 1) Mooring cable, simulated by 20 truss elements; 2) Vertical chain, simulated by 10 truss elements; 3) Forward float is simulated by Z-axis node spring; 4) Suction anchor fixes the end of the vertical chain to the seabed.

Claims

1. A modular aquaculture cage assembly structure, comprising: One or more adjacent net cages, each of the one or more net cages including spaced-apart peripheral walls surrounding a cavity for accommodating farmed animals, and the net cages comprising: A circumferential frame, the circumferential frame comprising a plurality of pipes arranged along the edge of the circumferential wall; Multiple node connectors, the node connectors being disposed at the ends of the multiple pipes to form frame nodes; and Multiple reinforcing support members are connected to a circumferential frame tube and extend at intervals along its length to other circumferential frame tubes.

2. The modular aquaculture net pen assembly of claim 1, wherein, A pipe is installed between the node connectors, extending along the edge of a single side wall.

3. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, or twelve pipes are provided between the node connectors, extending along the edge of a single side wall.

4. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to claim 1, wherein, One or more support mounting bases are provided for mounting the reinforcing support member on one or more pipes.

5. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to claim 1, wherein, The support mounting base is configured to be installed in the middle of the pipe.

6. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to claim 1, wherein, The support mounting base can be selectively moved along the pipe.

7. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to claim 1, wherein, The support mounting base is fastened to the connecting bracket or integrally formed with the connecting bracket. The connecting bracket is connected to a single pipe or connects one or more pipes to each other in the middle of the pipe.

8. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to claim 1, wherein, Multiple connecting brackets are provided, which are arranged at intervals along the pipe between the node connectors, and are used to bundle and fix the middle sections of multiple pipes together.

9. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to claim 1, wherein, A mesh installation component is provided, which is configured to be fastened to one or more pipes.

10. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to claim 9, wherein, The mesh installation component is fastened to the connecting bracket or integrally formed with the connecting bracket. The connecting bracket is connected to a single pipe or connects one or more pipes to each other in the middle of the pipe.

11. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to claim 9 or 10, wherein, The mesh installation component includes a guide rail receiving part.

12. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to claim 9, 10, or 11, wherein, The mesh installation component includes a guide rail for receiving the edge of the mesh or the mesh cable ties.

13. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to claim 12, wherein, The guide rail extends from one guide rail receiving part to another guide rail receiving part.

14. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to claim 1, wherein, The connecting supports are arranged at intervals of one meter, two meters, three meters, four meters or five meters along the pipe.

15. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 4 to 14, wherein, The support mounting base includes two, such that the two support ends can be fastened to the support mounting base (and the pipe).

16. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 4 to 15, wherein, The support mounting base includes a pivoting structure, allowing the support angle to be adjusted.

17. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein, A mesh cover is securely installed on the guide rail.

18. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein, The pipe is a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe.

19. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein, The cage assembly structure is constructed into multiple cell-type cage structures, and the cage wall of each cell-type cage is supported by rods that extend obliquely between adjacent circumferential pipes.

20. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein, The pipe includes multiple cavities to achieve different ballast arrangements, such as filling with air, water, sand, metal, etc.

21. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein, Each pipe has a selected or preset buoyancy, which is selected from one or more of the following groups: One or more upper circumferential pipes, arranged around the edge or opening of one or more cages, are filled with air and / or water. One or more bottom circumferential pipes installed around the bottom of the cage are at least partially filled with sand; At least partially filled with water and / or sand, one or more vertical pipes extending between the bottom pipe and the edge pipes.

22. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein, Each tube, bundled along the circumferential edge, is removable for replacement with tubes having different buoyancy during maintenance.

23. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein, The exterior of single or bundled circumferential pipes is covered with a skin to inhibit biological adhesion and reduce water flow resistance.

24. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to claim 23, wherein, The skin is made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) sheet.

25. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein, A canopy is provided above the one or more cages.

26. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to claim 25, wherein, The canopy is designed to provide additional aquaculture space in the form of a dome or arch, and includes frame members extending from the periphery of the frame tubing to the central area.

27. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to claim 25 or 26, wherein, The roof frame is constructed in the shape of a pyramid, cone, truncated cone, or single-slope roof.

28. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein, The canopy is equipped with a mesh wall to protect it from birds.

29. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein, At least a portion of the upper part of the canopy is provided with a waterproof membrane, which can form an air chamber when the net cage assembly structure sinks, thereby ensuring the survival and health of the fish and extending the submersion time of the net cage assembly structure.

30. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 25 to 29, wherein, A liquid collection tank is provided, and the structure and shape of the liquid collection tank are basically the same as those of the ceiling.

31. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 25 to 30, wherein, Inspection doors are provided on the mesh and / or membrane of the canopy and the collection tank.

32. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to claim 31, wherein, The inspection door uses a zipper structure similar to that of the tent end door.

33. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 1 to 32, wherein, It is equipped with a variable ballast water tank to adjust the height of the cage relative to the water surface.

34. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to claim 33, wherein, The variable ballast water tank can be arranged horizontally or vertically.

35. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 33 to 34, wherein, The variable ballast water tanks are arranged around the circumferential edge.

36. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 33 to 35, wherein, Each compartment has two variable ballast water tanks installed in its vertical circumferential frame.

37. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 33 to 36, wherein, Each ballast tank is constructed of vertical high-density polyethylene or aluminum alloy tubing, sealed at the top and open at the bottom, with a valve at the top to control the height of the cage relative to the water surface.

38. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 1 to 37, wherein, A single-point anchoring system is provided.

39. The modular aquaculture cage assembly structure according to any one of claims 1 to 38, wherein, A spare auxiliary cable is provided.

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