Systems and methods for cultivating and distributing aquatic organisms

Abstract

This disclosure relates to systems and methods for cultivating and distributing aquatic organisms. The invention provides systems and methods for monitoring the growth of aquatic plant cultures and detecting real-time characteristics related to the aquatic plants in the aquatic plant cultures. The systems and methods may include a control unit configured to perform analysis of at least one image of the aquatic plant culture. The analysis may include processing at least one collected image to determine at least one physical characteristic or state of the aquatic plant culture. Systems and methods for distributing aquatic plant cultures are also provided. The distribution systems and methods can track and control the distribution of aquatic plant cultures based on information received from various sources. Systems and methods for growing and harvesting aquatic plants in a controlled and compact environment are also provided. The systems may include a bioreactor having multiple vertically stacked modules designed to contain the aquatic plants and liquid growth media.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of application 202011260639.5, filed on March 3, 2015, entitled "System and method for cultivating and distributing aquatic organisms". Application 202011260639.5 is a divisional application of application 201580022070.X, filed on March 3, 2015, entitled "System and method for cultivating and distributing aquatic organisms". Technical Field

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to systems and methods for cultivating and distributing aquatic organisms. Specifically, embodiments relate to monitoring and controlling the cultivation and distribution of aquatic plant cultures. Background Technology

[0003] The global increase in noncommunicable, chronic, and degenerative diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, asthma, cancer, dementia, hypertension, osteoporosis, attention deficit disorder (ADD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is directly linked to unhealthy diets resulting from high consumption of processed foods with low nutritional quality. Studies indicate that a vegetarian-based diet, along with reduced consumption of processed foods, can reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease and cancer. The following references are examples of such studies and are each incorporated herein by reference in full:

[0004] 1) Francesca L Crowe et al., Risk of hospitalization or death from ischemic heart disease among British vegetarians and nonvegetarians: results from the EPIC-Oxford cohort study; 2013; Am J Clin Nutr March 2013.

[0005] 2) Dominique Ashen M. Vegetarian Diets in Cardiovascular Prevention; Curr Treat Options Cardiovasc Med. August 9, 2013.

[0006] Ann Nutr Metab 2012:60:233–240.3)Tao Huang, 2012-2013, 2012-2016, 2012-2016, 2012-2016, 2012-2016, 2012-2016, 2012-2016, 2012-2

[0007] 4)Vegetarianism can reduce the risk of heart disease by up to a third<http: / / www.ox.ac.uk / media / news_stories / 2013 / 130130.html> . . . .

[0008] 5)Claire T McEvoy, Vegetarian Diets, Low-Meat Diets and Health: Areview;Cambridge Journals-Public Health Nutrition.

[0009] Consequently, the demand for more nutritious foods is increasing. This has led to the rapid global growth of the healthy and good food market, which reached $200 billion by 2011 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5% in the coming years. However, this sector continues to operate under conditions of unsustainable agricultural practices and inefficient supply chains. Nearly 33% of food grown for human consumption is currently lost, and 65% of fruits and vegetables are lost. Furthermore, the agricultural sector is projected to account for 50% of global greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Moreover, despite its aim to promote healthier foods, this sector ultimately supplies “engineered” foods that most consumers distrust and / or cannot afford daily. As Todd Runestad (editor-in-chief of Functional Ingredients Magazine) summarized: "Consumers understand the inherent healthiness of fruits and vegetables, so if you can just put them in a convenient and tasty delivery system, you're on your way." Aquatic edible plants are attractive vegetables because they are convenient, delicious, and an excellent source of protein, dietary fiber, essential minerals (dietary chemicals), key vitamins, and other phytochemicals (such as antioxidants) needed for a healthy diet. Therefore, cultivating aquatic plants and distributing them to areas of consumer interest is crucial. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Some embodiments include a method for monitoring a culture of aquatic plants in a bioreactor. The method includes analyzing at least one image of the culture. The analysis may include receiving at least one image of the aquatic plant culture from at least one image sensor disposed in the bioreactor, performing image processing techniques on the at least one image to determine at least one physical characteristic of the culture, and performing analysis to determine at least one state of the culture. In some embodiments, the method includes adjusting at least one growth condition based on one or more of the at least one determined physical characteristic and the at least one determined state.

[0011] In some implementations, the growth conditions are adjusted based on the at least one determined physical characteristic and the at least one determined state.

[0012] In some embodiments, the at least one feature is determined based on at least one physical parameter of the aquatic plant culture. The at least one physical parameter may be at least one of the following: the surface area of ​​the aquatic plant, the density of the aquatic plant, the amount of light absorbed by the aquatic plant, the wavelength of light reflected from the surface of the aquatic plant, the wavelength of light transmitted through the aquatic plant, and the distribution of the wavelength in the reflected or transmitted light.

[0013] In some implementations, the method includes storing a timestamp in a database when the at least one image is received together with the at least one parameter of the aquatic plant culture.

[0014] In some implementations, the method includes determining the at least one state by monitoring changes in the at least one physical characteristic over time.

[0015] In some embodiments, the at least one physical characteristic is at least one of the following: the shape of the aquatic plant, the size of the aquatic plant, the pigment of the aquatic plant, the texture of the aquatic plant, or the transparency of the aquatic plant.

[0016] In some embodiments, the at least one state is at least one of the following: a healthy culture, a contaminated culture, the growth period of the culture, selective nutrient properties, the growth rate of the culture, a stressed culture, biomass density, mortality rate, a dead culture, a dying culture, and the viability of the aquatic plant.

[0017] In some implementations, the growth phase of the culture is one of the lag phase, exponential phase, stationary phase, decline phase, and any intermediate phase.

[0018] In some embodiments, the culture of the aquatic plant is selected from at least one of the following: *Lemna minor*, *Lemna minor*, *Lemna spp.*, *Lemna spp.*, and *Lemna spp.*

[0019] In some implementations, the method includes storing at least one of the following in a database: the at least one image, the at least one physical feature, and the at least one state.

[0020] In some embodiments, the at least one growth condition includes at least one of the following: light level, spectrum, light interval, temperature, fertilizer element content, water content, vapor pressure, humidity, pH, ion concentration, oxygen concentration, CO2 content, culture density, airflow, growth solution flow rate, and culture flow rate.

[0021] In some implementations, the method includes operating at least one valve in response to determining at least one feature or the at least one state.

[0022] In some embodiments, the method is executed by one or more processors. In some embodiments, the culture is housed in the bioreactor. In some embodiments, the method is executed by a server connected to a control unit. In some embodiments, the method is executed by a control unit.

[0023] In some embodiments, the at least one state of the aquatic plant culture is determined based on the developmental stage of the discrete aquatic plants within the aquatic plant culture. In some embodiments, the developmental stage of the discrete aquatic plants is determined based on the at least one characteristic. In some embodiments, the developmental stage of the discrete aquatic plants is determined by at least one of the following: the presence of a connection region between the parent plant and the offspring plant, and the absence of a connection region between the parent plant and the offspring plant.

[0024] Some embodiments include a system for monitoring a culture of aquatic plants. The system includes a processor in communication with at least one image sensor disposed in a bioreactor and a memory in communication with the processor, containing instructions executed by the processor. The processor is configured to receive at least one image of the aquatic plant culture from the at least one image sensor disposed in the bioreactor, perform image processing on the at least one image to determine at least one physical characteristic of the aquatic plant culture, perform analysis to determine at least one state of the culture, and control the operation of the bioreactor based on one or more of the determination of the at least one physical characteristic and the determination of the at least one state.

[0025] In some implementations, the processor is configured to monitor changes in the at least one feature by using at least one mathematical model.

[0026] In some embodiments, the processor is connected to the bioreactor via a server on a network. In some embodiments, the processor is located in a control unit within the bioreactor.

[0027] In some embodiments, the bioreactor includes at least one input unit for receiving aquatic organisms used as starting material for an aquatic plant culture, at least one growth unit for growing the aquatic plant culture, at least one collection unit for collecting the aquatic plant culture, and at least one output unit for providing consumer products derived from the aquatic plant culture.

[0028] In some implementations, the processor is further configured to control the bioreactor by adjusting at least one growth condition.

[0029] Some embodiments include a bioreactor for growing aquatic plant cultures. The bioreactor includes at least one input unit for receiving aquatic organisms used as starting material for the aquatic plant culture, at least one growth unit for growing the aquatic plant culture, at least one collection unit for collecting the aquatic plant culture, at least one output unit for providing consumer products derived from the aquatic plant culture, and a control unit. The control unit is configured to receive images from an imaging system disposed within the bioreactor, the imaging system including at least one image sensor; determine at least one feature related to the aquatic plant culture by performing at least one image processing technique on the at least one image; and control the operation of the at least one bioreactor based on the determination of the at least one feature.

[0030] In some embodiments, the bioreactor includes a modification unit for altering the composition of the aquatic plant culture and a customization unit for tailoring the consumer product to be supplied to the end user.

[0031] In some embodiments, the imaging system includes multiple light sources. In some embodiments, the multiple light sources illuminate the aquatic plant culture with various forms of light having different wavelengths or different illumination intensities. In some embodiments, the imaging system is configured to collect light reflected from the aquatic plant culture and light transmitted through the aquatic plant culture. In some embodiments, the imaging system includes at least one light source positioned above the aquatic plant culture and at least one light source positioned below the aquatic plant culture.

[0032] Some embodiments include a computer program product having a non-transitory computer-readable medium on which computer program logic is recorded. When the computer program logic is executed by one or more processors of a server computer system, it causes the server computer system to receive at least one image of a culture of aquatic plants from at least one image sensor disposed in a bioreactor; perform image processing on the at least one image to determine at least one physical characteristic of the aquatic plant culture; and control the operation of the at least one bioreactor based on the determination of the at least one physical characteristic.

[0033] Some embodiments include an apparatus for growing aquatic plants in a controlled and compact environment, the apparatus comprising a stack of modules comprising a plurality of vertically stacked discrete modules, each discrete module being designed to contain the aquatic plants and a liquid growth medium. At least one first valve is communicated with at least one discrete module, the at least one first valve enabling the flow of at least one of the following: a predetermined volume of the aquatic plants and a predetermined volume of the liquid growth medium. A first vertical conduit is communicated with the at least one first valve and connected to the plurality of vertically stacked discrete modules, the first vertical conduit enabling the flow of at least one of the following from a higher discrete module in the stack of modules to a lower discrete module in the stack of modules: the predetermined volume of liquid growth medium and the predetermined volume of aquatic plants.

[0034] In some implementations, the first valve is a static valve.

[0035] In some embodiments, the device includes at least one second valve in communication with at least one discrete module, the at least one second valve being in communication with a second vertical pipe and configured to collect a predetermined volume of aquatic plants.

[0036] In some embodiments, the second vertical pipe is connected to the separation unit. In some embodiments, the second vertical pipe is connected to the collection unit.

[0037] In some embodiments, the first vertical conduit includes a plurality of interconnected sub-channels, each of which is in communication with at least one first valve.

[0038] In some embodiments, the at least one first valve includes at least one baffle. In some embodiments, the at least one second valve includes at least one baffle.

[0039] In some implementations, each discrete module is a horizontal conduit configured to grow a culture of the aquatic plant.

[0040] In some embodiments, each discrete module in the stack of modules includes at least one first valve. In some embodiments, each discrete module in the stack of modules includes at least one second valve.

[0041] In some embodiments, the device further includes a modification unit in stack communication with the module.

[0042] In some implementations, the at least one second valve is a dynamic valve.

[0043] In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes a storage unit connected to the modification unit for storing liquid growth medium for recycling.

[0044] In some implementations, the modified unit performs at least one of the following: sterilization, disinfection, essential salt dissolution, fertilizer dissolution, aeration, pH adjustment, and temperature adjustment.

[0045] In some embodiments, the device includes at least one of the following: at least one light source, at least one airflow source, at least one inlet for receiving airflow, and at least one outlet for releasing excess pressure.

[0046] In some embodiments, the device includes a control unit configured to control the flow of the predetermined volume of the aquatic plant and the predetermined volume of the liquid growth medium. In some embodiments, the control unit is configured to control the flow of the predetermined volume of the aquatic plant and the predetermined volume of the liquid growth medium in a single discrete module of the plurality of vertically stacked discrete modules.

[0047] In some embodiments, the device includes a biomass quantification unit configured to perform online measurement of plant floating volume (PFV) of the aquatic plants.

[0048] Some embodiments relate to a cylinder for distributing aquatic plant cultures, comprising a cylinder body having a plurality of sealed chambers, wherein at least one of the sealed chambers contains aquatic plant cultures in a storage medium and at least one of the sealed chambers contains a fertilizer reserve solution.

[0049] In some embodiments, the aquatic plant culture is selected from the group consisting of: *Lemna*, *Lemna minor*, *Lemna*, *Lemna flatina*, and *Lemna minor*. In some embodiments, the aquatic plant culture is in a predetermined life stage. In some embodiments, the predetermined life stage is the spring life stage. In some embodiments, the predetermined life stage is the winter life stage.

[0050] In some embodiments, the cylinder includes an identification tag. In some embodiments, the identification tag includes at least one of the following: a barcode, a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip, and a fast response code.

[0051] In some embodiments, the identification tag includes coded information relating to the container and the coded information includes information relating to at least one of the following: the contents of one or more sealed compartments, the type of aquatic plant culture contained in at least one of the sealed compartments, the type of fertilizer reserve solution contained in at least one of the sealed compartments, the date the compartments were sealed, the type of storage medium, the optimal growth conditions for the type of aquatic plant culture contained in at least one of the sealed compartments, the location where the compartments were sealed, the SKU number, and the fertilizer reserve solution scheme matching the aquatic plant culture contained in the compartments.

[0052] In some implementations, the identification tag includes coded information, and the coded information includes identification information relating to the origin of the tube.

[0053] In some embodiments, the cylinder includes a sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor includes at least one of the following: a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, an oxygen sensor, a light sensor, and a pH sensor.

[0054] In some embodiments, the preservation medium is a liquid. In some embodiments, the preservation medium is a gel.

[0055] In some embodiments, the fertilizer stock solution includes at least one macro-element or micro-element, including, for example, nitrogen, phosphorus, iron, potassium, sulfur, calcium, magnesium, zinc, compounds containing at least one macro-element or micro-element, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the fertilizer stock solution is a tested organic fertilizer solution.

[0056] In some implementations, the aquatic plant culture is a seasonal aquatic plant culture.

[0057] Some embodiments relate to a bioreactor including an input unit configured to receive a cylinder containing an aquatic plant culture; the input unit includes an extractor configured to remove the aquatic plant culture from the cylinder; an incubation unit for receiving the aquatic plant culture from the input unit; a growth unit for growing the aquatic plant culture; a collection unit for collecting the aquatic plant culture; and a control unit. The control unit may be configured to read an identification tag associated with the cylinder received at the input unit to obtain cylinder identification information and to send the cylinder identification information to a server.

[0058] In some embodiments, the bioreactor further includes a memory and the control unit is further configured to store the cylinder identification information in the memory.

[0059] In some implementations, the server includes a database for storing the cylinder identification information.

[0060] In some embodiments, the control unit is further configured to record a timestamp when the aquatic plant culture is removed from the tube and send the timestamp to the server. In some embodiments, the server is configured to track the distribution of the tubes based on the tube identification information and the timestamp.

[0061] In some implementations, the server is configured to perform at least one of the following actions based on the cylinder identification information and the recorded timestamps: (a) requesting a new cylinder shipment for the bioreactor; (b) adjusting the shipment date for a subsequent cylinder shipment; (c) adjusting the aquatic plant culture in the cylinder for a subsequent cylinder shipment; (d) customizing the cylinder contents for delivery to a specific location; (e) sending a status report for the bioreactor to a central processing location; (f) adjusting the growth conditions in another bioreactor; (g) adjusting the storage medium for a subsequent cylinder shipment; (h) adjusting the fertilizer reserve solution for a subsequent cylinder shipment; and (i) adjusting the collection scheme in another bioreactor.

[0062] In some embodiments, adjusting the collection scheme in the other bioreactor alters the life stage of the other aquatic plant culture when it is collected and packaged in another container. In some embodiments, adjusting the collection scheme in the other bioreactor alters the time within the life stage of the other aquatic plant culture when it is collected and packaged in another container.

[0063] In some embodiments, the control unit is further configured to receive images from an imaging system disposed in the bioreactor, the imaging system including at least one image sensor configured to image the aquatic plant culture in at least one of the tube and the incubation unit; determine at least one feature associated with the aquatic plant culture; and send the at least one feature associated with the aquatic plant culture to the server.

[0064] In some implementations, the server is configured to perform at least one of the following actions based on the determination of the characteristics of the aquatic plant culture: (a) requesting a new tube shipment for the bioreactor; (b) adjusting the shipment date for a subsequent tube shipment; (c) adjusting the aquatic plant culture in the tube for a subsequent tube shipment; (d) customizing the contents of the tube for delivery to a specific location; (e) sending a status report for the bioreactor to a central processing location; (f) adjusting the growth conditions in another bioreactor; (g) adjusting the storage medium for a subsequent tube shipment; (h) adjusting the fertilizer stock solution for a subsequent tube shipment; (i) adjusting the collection scheme in another bioreactor; and (j) adjusting one or more substances contained in the tube for a subsequent tube shipment.

[0065] Some embodiments relate to a system for growing aquatic plant cultures, comprising a server and a bioreactor in communication with the server. The bioreactor may include an input unit configured to receive a cylinder containing aquatic plant cultures, the input unit including an extractor configured to remove the aquatic plant cultures from the cylinders; an incubation unit for receiving the aquatic plant cultures from the input unit; a growth unit for growing the aquatic plant cultures; a collection unit for collecting the aquatic plant cultures; and a control unit. The control unit may be configured to read an identification tag associated with the cylinder received at the input unit to obtain cylinder identification information and to send the cylinder identification information to the server.

[0066] Some embodiments relate to a method for distributing an aquatic plant culture, the method comprising: growing the aquatic plant culture; collecting a portion of the aquatic plant culture when it is in a predetermined life stage; packaging the portion of the aquatic plant culture and a preservation medium in a sealed chamber of a tube; and distributing the tube to a distal location, the distal location being determined based on one or more of the following: the need for the portion of the aquatic plant culture, the distribution time required to send the tube to the distal location, and the predetermined life stage of the portion of the aquatic plant culture.

[0067] In some implementations, growing the aquatic plant culture includes maturing the aquatic plant culture throughout its entire life cycle before harvesting.

[0068] In some embodiments, the method further includes packaging at least one fertilizer reserve solution in another sealed compartment of the cylinder. In some embodiments, the type of fertilizer reserve solution is determined based on the species of the aquatic plant culture.

[0069] In some implementations, the type of preservation medium is determined based on at least one of the species of the aquatic plant culture and the predetermined natural life stage of the portion of the aquatic plant culture.

[0070] In some implementations, the aquatic plant culture is grown in a bioreactor.

[0071] Some embodiments relate to a distribution system for distributing aquatic plant cultures, the distribution system comprising a source bioreactor for growing the aquatic plant cultures; a point-of-use bioreactor for growing a portion of the aquatic plant culture received from the source bioreactor; and a server connected to the source bioreactor and the point-of-use bioreactor. The server may be configured to coordinate the distribution of the portion of the aquatic plant culture from the source bioreactor with the point-of-use bioreactor based on one or more of the following: the need for the portion of the aquatic plant culture, the distribution time required to send the tube to the point-of-use bioreactor, and the life stage of the portion of the aquatic plant culture. Attached Figure Description

[0072] Figure 1A –1D is a description of a horizontal pipe.

[0073] Figure 2 Aerial image of an aquaculture farm used for growing aquatic plants.

[0074] Figure 3 This is a schematic block diagram of a bioreactor system according to one embodiment.

[0075] Figure 4 This is a schematic block diagram of a network connected to a bioreactor control unit according to one implementation scheme.

[0076] Figure 5 An imaging system according to one implementation scheme.

[0077] Figure 6A This is a schematic block diagram of a bioreactor system according to one embodiment.

[0078] Figure 6B This is a schematic block diagram of a bioreactor system according to one embodiment.

[0079] Figure 7 A flowchart describing the operation of determining at least one characteristic related to an aquatic culture according to an implementation scheme.

[0080] Figure 8 This is a flowchart describing the operation of determining selective nutrient properties according to an implementation plan.

[0081] Figure 9 This is a flowchart describing the operation of determining the growth period or growth rate of a culture of aquatic plants according to an implementation plan.

[0082] Figure 10 This is a flowchart describing the detection of contamination events in a culture of aquatic plants according to one implementation scheme.

[0083] Figure 11 This is a flowchart describing the process of determining the viability or health status of aquatic plants according to an implementation plan.

[0084] Figure 12A –12B shows a histogram describing the growth of a culture of aquatic plants according to one embodiment.

[0085] Figure 13 Images of aquatic plants at various developmental stages.

[0086] Figure 14 Image of a healthy culture of aquatic plants found during the lag period according to one implementation scheme.

[0087] Figure 15 Image of a healthy culture of aquatic plants found during an exponential period according to one implementation scheme.

[0088] Figure 16 Image of a healthy culture of aquatic plants found during a stable period according to one implementation scheme.

[0089] Figure 17A –17C shows a distribution of various growth stages for cultures of aquatic plants. Figure 17A The distribution map is shown for the early growth (lag phase). Figure 17B The diagram shows the distribution for the transition to high-rate growth (exponential phase). Figure 17C The distribution map is shown for high-rate growth (exponential phase).

[0090] Figure 18 Image of a contaminated culture of aquatic plants according to one implementation scheme.

[0091] Figure 19A –19B is a flowchart describing the operation of growing aquatic cultures according to one implementation scheme.

[0092] Figure 20A –20B is a flowchart describing the operation of delivering the output of a consumable substance according to one implementation scheme.

[0093] Figure 21 This is a flowchart describing the operation of adjusting growth conditions in a bioreactor according to one implementation scheme.

[0094] Figure 22 A schematic block diagram illustrating the operation of a system according to one implementation scheme.

[0095] Figure 23A –23B is a figure illustrating an exemplary result of an image processing technique performed on a culture of aquatic plants according to one embodiment.

[0096] Figure 24 This is a representation of a method for processing images according to one implementation scheme.

[0097] Figure 25A –25B is a figure illustrating an exemplary result of a method for processing an image according to one embodiment.

[0098] Figure 26 This is a schematic block diagram of a distribution system for aquatic plant cultures according to one implementation scheme.

[0099] Figure 27 This is a perspective view of a tube used for distributing aquatic plant cultures according to one embodiment.

[0100] Figure 28 In accordance with an implementation plan Figure 27 The inner edge of the cylinder Figure 27 The cross section of line 28-28' in the middle.

[0101] Figure 29 This is a schematic diagram of the life cycle of an aquatic plant culture according to an implementation plan.

[0102] Figure 30A –30B shows a flowchart illustrating the initialization process according to one implementation scheme.

[0103] Figure 31 A growth apparatus having multiple stacked modules according to one embodiment.

[0104] Figure 32 A growth apparatus having multiple stacked modules according to one embodiment.

[0105] Figure 33A A growth apparatus having multiple stacked modules according to one embodiment. Figure 33B To illustrate according to one implementation scheme Figure 33A A schematic diagram of valve operation.

[0106] Figure 34 For module along Figure 33A , 35A Cross-sectional views of line A-A' in 35B, 35C, and 35D.

[0107] Figure 35AFor a module based on an implementation plan. Figure 35B For a module based on an implementation plan. Figure 35C For a module based on an implementation plan. Figure 35D For a module based on an implementation plan.

[0108] Figure 36 This is a flowchart describing the operation of growing and collecting aquatic plants according to one implementation scheme.

[0109] Figure 37 An exemplary image of a bioreactor system according to one embodiment.

[0110] Figure 38 An aerial view of a module according to an implementation plan.

[0111] Figure 39A -39B is Figure 38 The cross-sectional view of the module shows the operation of the valve according to one embodiment.

[0112] Figure 40 This describes the operation of a valve according to one implementation scheme.

[0113] Figure 41 A cross-sectional view of multiple stacked modules according to one implementation scheme.

[0114] Figure 42 An aerial view of a module according to an implementation plan.

[0115] Figure 43 Show Figure 42 A cross-sectional view of a module illustrating the operation of a valve according to one implementation scheme.

[0116] Figure 44 This is a cross-sectional view of a module according to one implementation scheme.

[0117] Figure 45 A graph showing the refloat distance.

[0118] Figure 46 An exemplary image of a module according to one implementation scheme.

[0119] Figure 47A An aerial view of a module according to an implementation plan. Figure 47B for Figure 47A A cross-sectional view of the module in the image.

[0120] Figure 48A An aerial view of a module according to an implementation plan. Figure 48B for Figure 48A A cross-sectional view of the module in the image.

[0121] Figure 49A An aerial view of a module according to an implementation plan. Figure 49B for Figure 49A A cross-sectional view of the module in the image.

[0122] Figure 50 A comparison between modules with sloping floors is shown according to one embodiment.

[0123] Figure 51A An aerial view of a module according to an implementation plan. Figure 51B for Figure 51A A cross-sectional view of the module in the image.

[0124] Figure 52A –52C describes a biomass collection and quantification unit and its operation according to one implementation scheme.

[0125] Figure 53 A schematic diagram illustrating the measurement of PFV.

[0126] Figure 54 A diagram illustrating the relationship between PFV and WW according to one implementation scheme.

[0127] Figure 55A –55B is a diagram illustrating the relationship between PFV and DW according to various implementation schemes.

[0128] Figure 56 A sterilization unit according to an implementation plan.

[0129] Figure 57 A sterilization unit according to an implementation plan.

[0130] Figure 58 A sterilization unit according to an implementation plan.

[0131] Figure 59 A schematic block diagram of an exemplary computer system in which an implementation scheme can be executed. Detailed Implementation

[0132] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals are used to indicate identical or functionally similar elements. References to “one embodiment,” “implementation,” “exemplary embodiment,” etc., indicate that the said embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but each embodiment may not necessarily include said particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, the terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Additionally, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in conjunction with an embodiment, it is proposed that, to the knowledge of one skilled in the art, it may affect said feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments, whether explicitly described or not.

[0133] The following embodiments are illustrative of the invention and not limiting. Other suitable modifications and alterations to the conditions and parameters commonly encountered in the art and readily apparent to those skilled in the art are within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0134] As used herein, the term "aquatic organism" includes all living or growing organisms in, on, or near water, such as, but not limited to, fish, mollusks, crustaceans, echinoderms, other invertebrates and their life stages, as well as aquatic (e.g., marine and freshwater) plants. Types of aquatic plants include, but are not limited to, algae, *Lemna*, *Lemna minor*, *Lemna*, *Lemna flatina*, *Lemna minor*, etc. Although embodiments described herein may refer to "aquatic plants," "aquatic plant cultures," or "cultures of aquatic plants," any embodiment described herein may be used for the growth, cultivation, collection, etc., of any type of "aquatic organism."

[0135] The convenience, flavor, and high nutritional value of aquatic organisms, such as aquatic plants, make their cultivation and distribution necessary. However, during cultivation, aquatic plant cultures typically undergo various time-consuming analyses performed under the guidance of experts attempting to monitor the condition of the cultures. Therefore, there is a need for faster, simpler, and more efficient methods to determine parameters related to aquatic plant growth, thereby increasing control, efficiency, and performance while minimizing the need for human intervention. Furthermore, there is a need to monitor the cultures for early detection of stress conditions and invasive species that would allow for continuous adjustment and optimization of conditions related to the growth of the cultures, thus increasing the safety, quality, and yield of the harvest.

[0136] A common way to monitor growth is to analyze samples taken from the culture at predetermined time intervals. This involves trained personnel and the use of specific medical instruments, tools, and equipment within a laboratory facility. For example, these days, microscopic analysis is typically performed by experts in the field to determine the morphological characteristics of the culture. Furthermore, microscopic observation is used to identify the presence of biological contaminants (e.g., bacteria, algae, fungi) and / or selective nutrients (e.g., antioxidants, dietary chemicals, proteins, etc.) that may be found in the culture. However, such analyses are time-consuming and expensive, which conventionally limits their frequent use.

[0137] Furthermore, these analyses are performed through different tests specifically for the selected parameters and lack the ability to conduct comprehensive multi-parameter analyses. For example, biocounting can be used to monitor the growth of the culture over time, such as by determining biomass density, growth acceleration, growth deceleration, growth phase (e.g., arrest, exponential growth, quiescence), mortality, etc. However, even the most advanced counter forms only provide one parameter and lack the ability to detect early changes or suggest relevant factors and trends.

[0138] Therefore, a system is needed that can include real-time, continuous, field testing, with the potential for automation and autonomous execution, and with Wi-Fi connectivity and remote control capabilities. These features will facilitate accurate and highly efficient real-time culture management and performance optimization.

[0139] Horizontal conduits (also known as flow systems) are artificial channels used in aquaculture to cultivate aquatic organisms such as fish, algae, and aquatic plants (e.g., *Lemna minor*, *Lemna spp.*, *Lemna floribunda*, *Lemna spp.*, *Lemna spp.*, *Lemna spp.*, etc.). Traditional horizontal conduits typically include a continuous flow system for mixing the aquatic organisms while simultaneously increasing aeration and homogenizing nutrients. This continuous flow provides the required level of liquid growth medium, allowing the aquatic organisms to be cultured at high densities within the conduit.

[0140] like Figure 1A As shown, the horizontal pipe 100 can be found in the form of a rectangular channel containing a currently flowing liquid, such as water, from the supply end to the outlet end. In the aquaculture industry, to produce large-scale aquatic organisms, these organisms can be cultured in a double-horizontal pipe. The double-horizontal pipe can also contain an elliptical flow path from the supply end to the outlet end (see reference). Figure 1B As shown in 110) or found to be a closed ellipse with a continuous line flow, the closed ellipse having a supply and endpoint at any point on the ellipse (in Figure 1C It is shown as 120 in the middle and in Figure 2 (As shown in 200). Some horizontal pipes may include continuously tortuous channels (in... Figure 1D (Seen as 130 in the diagram). Some horizontal conduits (e.g., horizontal conduit 130) may include impellers 142 and one or more baffles 144. Horizontal conduits facilitate the cultivation of large quantities of aquatic organisms within a large cultivation area from a single feed, monitoring, and collection point.

[0141] The nature of the horizontal pipelines currently implemented in this field has various limitations. Figure 2As illustrated, while horizontal pipe structures allow for the growth of large masses of aquatic organisms, they require large, flat, and open surface areas. Furthermore, aquaculture operations using conventional horizontal pipe configurations can be expensive. For example, the loading and unloading of large volumes of aqueous solutions and collected biomass can be costly. Large horizontal pipes may also require complex cleaning systems, sensitive control systems, etc. In addition, the high costs associated with the infrastructure and construction of large ponds can also be a burden on the aquaculture industry.

[0142] Conventional aquaculture farms may be equipped with multiple control units, each controlling separate horizontal pipe channels. In this configuration, the growth of aquatic organisms can be inconsistent within the aquaculture farm, depending on the growth conditions provided to each horizontal pipe channel. Inconsistent growth can lead to a heterogeneous final product of aquatic organisms produced by the aquaculture farm.

[0143] Therefore, effective control of the environment required for the optimal growth of aquatic plants has attracted attention. Furthermore, compact and cost-effective systems for growing these aquatic plants have also garnered interest.

[0144] Often, the aquatic organisms in aquatic plant cultures, in terms of proper growth and sustainability, depend on their ecosystems (e.g., light, temperature, natural nutrients, etc.). Whenever aquatic plant cultures are removed from their optimal ecosystems, they can be subject to degradation, contamination, or death. Therefore, the transport and / or distribution of aquatic plant cultures in environments that do not mimic their optimal ecological conditions requires appropriately controlled and sensitive operations to ensure that the aquatic plants are delivered to their destination in a viable state.

[0145] For example, aquatic plant cultures should be protected from harmful conditions (such as high temperatures) during transportation. Additionally, the packaging and distribution of aquatic plant cultures should ensure that the user receives viable cultures suitable for his or her needs. If non-viable cultures are received by the user, the reasons for the delivery of non-viable cultures and the solutions should be identified to prevent recurrence.

[0146] Furthermore, aquatic plant cultures can preferably be packaged and transported in a manner that minimizes transportation and distribution costs. For example, if the aquatic plant cultures can be transported at ambient temperatures (e.g., in the range of 18°C ​​to 25°C), the costs associated with adjusting the temperature of the cultures during transportation can be reduced. Additionally, if the aquatic plant cultures remain viable within the shipping container for an extended period (e.g., approximately one week or longer), the costs associated with expedited shipping can be reduced.

[0147] Furthermore, monitoring and controlling the distribution of the cylinders based on information received from one or more components within the distribution system can increase the efficiency of distributing the cylinders and facilitate the rapid identification and correction of any problems within the distribution system.

[0148] The embodiments or elements of the invention described herein facilitate the effective monitoring, cultivation, collection and / or distribution of aquatic organisms, such as aquatic plant cultures, and other objectives.

[0149] In some embodiments, systems and methods are provided for continuous monitoring of aquatic plant growth (aquatic cultures of the genus *Lemna*). These systems and methods facilitate the early detection of characteristics associated with the aquatic plant culture. The system can receive at least one image of the aquatic plant culture. Furthermore, the system is adjustable for each required detection, including image acquisition settings (e.g., image sensor, optics, and light). The aquatic plant culture may comprise one or more aquatic plants or a combination of different types of aquatic plants. The system can identify at least one parameter from a plurality of parameters associated with at least one characteristic of the aquatic plant by employing at least one image processing technique on each image of the culture.

[0150] The image processing techniques may include, but are not limited to, techniques executed by a processor that use algorithms to identify various parameters related to aquatic plants found in received images. For example, the algorithm may be a shape or color identification algorithm capable of determining the color and shape of the aquatic plant by analyzing light reflected and transmitted through the aquatic plant culture. The computer algorithm may include a method for scoring multiple features of the aquatic plant culture. The computer algorithm may also include an algorithm for comparing the received image with reference data related to parameters and / or features from stored images, including but not limited to baseline images, reference images previously collected from the same culture, and / or reference images previously collected from different cultures stored in a database.

[0151] The identified parameters may include, but are not limited to, the surface area of ​​the aquatic plant, the density of the aquatic plant, the amount of light absorbed by the aquatic plant, the wavelength of light reflected from the surface of the aquatic plant, the wavelength of light transmitted through the aquatic plant, and the distribution of the wavelengths in the reflected or transmitted light. The system may then determine at least one characteristic of the culture based on these parameters. The characteristics of the aquatic plant may include, but are not limited to, the shape of the aquatic plant, the size of the aquatic plant, the pigments (color) of the aquatic plant, the texture of the aquatic plant, or the transparency of the aquatic plant. The system may then classify and score the aquatic culture based on parameters associated with at least one characteristic to determine the state of the aquatic culture. The state of the aquatic culture may include, but is not limited to, biomass density, growth acceleration rate, growth deceleration rate, healthy culture, contaminated culture, stressed culture, dead culture, dying culture, selective macronutrient or micronutrient concentration / attribute, growth stage of the culture, mortality rate, etc. Stressed culture may indicate a deficiency of at least one fertilizer element, extreme light or temperature conditions, or unfavorable pH conditions. Furthermore, the system can be configured to identify contamination events and levels that may occur due to the invasion and growth of the culture by bacteria, algae, fungi, etc.

[0152] Systems and methods for continuous monitoring of aquatic plant growth can be used to cultivate discrete aquatic plant cultures or multiple aquatic plant cultures. These systems and methods can continuously monitor one or more aquatic plant cultures within one or more bioreactors. Data collected from the bioreactors (e.g., data collected using image processing techniques) can be used to effectively control the monitoring and growth of one or more aquatic plant cultures within the one or more bioreactors. Furthermore, data collected from the bioreactors can be used to promote the distribution of one or more aquatic plant cultures.

[0153] Figure 3 A system 300 for cultivating, collecting, and discharging cultures of aquatic plants according to one embodiment is shown. System 300 includes a bioreactor 310. Bioreactor 310 may have one or more growth units 330 adapted to grow one or more aquatic plants in the system, one or more collection units 340 adapted to collect one or more aquatic plants in the system, and one or more processing units 350 adapted to modify and / or customize the one or more aquatic plants collected from the collection units 340. A control unit 370 may be configured to control one or more operations of system 300.

[0154] System 300 may further include an input unit 320 adapted to receive aquatic organisms (e.g., aquatic plant cultures at a predetermined life stage), fertilizers, water, and air as starting materials or organisms. The aquatic starting materials may be, for example, but not limited to, plants from the Duckweed family, particularly from the genera *Lemna*, *Lemna minor*, *Lemna*, *Lemna floribunda*, and *Lemna minor*, edible microalgae, and macroalgae. In another embodiment, starting materials of aquatic organisms that are not necessarily edible are used. The starting materials may be in various developmental states and forms, such as, but not limited to, early-maturing or mature plant forms, weakened forms, dormant forms, etiolated forms, and / or seed forms.

[0155] System 300 may also include one or more output units 360 adapted to supply the aquatic plant and / or culture conditioned medium, such as food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, chemical, or other suitable products. In some embodiments, output unit 360 may output aquatic plant cultures in an unchanged form (e.g., in a source bioreactor 2602 for packaging and distribution or in a POU bioreactor 2604 for consumption, as discussed below).

[0156] In some embodiments, two consecutive steps are performed in the input unit 320: an acceptance step and an incubation step. The acceptance step includes receiving the starting material from a delivery package (e.g., a cavity / tube, such as chamber 2702 of tube 2700) into an incubation growth chamber 321 while maintaining and classifying sterile conditions. The incubation step includes the time and conditions necessary for the starting material to mature before being transferred to the growth unit 330. The incubation growth chamber 321 may include one or more sensors, such as sensor 372 and image sensor 374, which can deliver data to the control unit 370 to: (1) ensure a safe / contamination-free state for new batches, and (2) ensure that the starting material reaches an acceptable maturity state. In some embodiments, maintaining these two steps within the input unit 320 rather than including them in the growth unit 330 allows for simple and rapid replacement of the new culture should an error occur.

[0157] Input unit 320 may include an extractor 322 for approaching and extracting one or more cavities / tubes (e.g., chamber 2702 or tube 2700) from said cavities / tubes. Extractor 322 may include any suitable mechanism for approaching and extracting one or more aquatic plant cultures and / or fertilizer stock solutions. In some embodiments, extractor 322 may include a suction-type device having a piercing end for approaching and extracting one or more aquatic plant cultures and / or fertilizer stock solutions. In some embodiments, extractor 322 may include a vacuum device for extracting one or more plant cultures and / or fertilizer stock solutions. In some embodiments, extractor 322 may include a vacuum device for extracting one or more plant cultures and / or fertilizer stock solutions. In some embodiments, the extractor may include movable mechanical devices (e.g., a robotic arm) for moving between different locations (e.g., from an extraction location for extracting aquatic plants and / or fertilizer to a dispensing location for dispensing the aquatic plants and / or fertilizer to an incubation or growth unit). In some embodiments, the extractor 322 may include a washing unit for washing out the contents of one or more cavities. In operation, the control unit 370 may read and store information located on tags and / or sensors (e.g., identification tag 2720 and / or cylinder sensor 2722), for example, stored in the memory 378 of the bioreactor 310. In some embodiments, the reading and storage of this information may be performed when the cavity / cylinder is located in the input unit 320. Additionally, the control unit 370 may record timestamps when the cavity / cylinder is received by the input unit 320 and / or when one or more cavities of the cylinder are approached by the extractor 322.

[0158] Control unit 370 is configured to control the operation of each unit (320, 330, 340, 350, 360) and monitor system 300 in real time by collecting data from sensors 372 (372-1 to 372-n) and image sensors 374 (374-1 to 374-n). Control unit 370 is configured to monitor and adjust the growth conditions of each of these units using sensors 372 and / or 374. As used herein, “real-time” may include delays inherent in the transmission technology, delays designed to optimize resources, and other inherent or required delays that will be apparent to those skilled in the art. In some embodiments, some or all of these transmissions may be delayed in real time or may occur after the specific operation has been completed.

[0159] Sensor 372 may include, but is not limited to, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, pH sensors, CO2 sensors, light sensors, flow sensors, liquid level sensors, etc. Image sensor 374 may be a camera adapted to provide at least one image of the culture of the aquatic plant. Control unit 370 may be configured to monitor and analyze data collected from sensors 372 and / or 374 and control culture conditions, process flow, and operation of units 320, 330, 340, 350, and 360 based on the data collected from sensors 372 and / or 374. In some embodiments, bioreactor 310 is a self-contained unit comprising an input unit 320, a growth unit 330, a collection unit 340, a processing unit 350, an output unit 360, and a control unit 370 within a single housing 312.

[0160] In some implementations, such as, for example Figure 3 As shown, bioreactor 310 is a self-contained bioreactor 310 with an onboard control unit 370. In some embodiments, the control unit 370 may be connected to a network for collecting, storing, and / or processing information related to the operation of bioreactor 310. In said embodiments, the network may include devices, such as servers, for collecting, storing, and / or processing information related to the operation of multiple bioreactors.

[0161] In some embodiments, the control unit 370 is adapted to collect and process data / parameters related to the detection of relevant characteristics of the aquatic plant culture. In some embodiments, the control unit 370 may be connected to a network 380 for collecting, storing, analyzing, and / or processing data related to the detection of relevant characteristics of the aquatic plant culture. Figure 4 This is an exemplary and non-limiting schematic diagram of a network 380 for collecting, storing, analyzing, and / or processing data related to the detection of relevant characteristics of aquatic plant cultures. Network 380 may be a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), metropolitan area network (MAN), World Wide Web (WWW), Internet, and any combination thereof, implemented as a wired and / or wireless network. Network 380 may receive and / or collect data from sensors 372 and 374 connected to control unit 370 and communicatively connected to network 380.

[0162] Each image sensor 374 can be adapted to provide at least one image of an aquatic plant culture. The culture may include, but is not limited to, species or combinations thereof from the genera *Lemna*, *Lemna minor*, *Lemna*, *Lemna floribunda*, *Lemna minor*, etc. A database 382 can be communicatively connected to a network 380. The database 382 can be used to maintain information intended for detecting features related to the aquatic plant culture.

[0163] Network 380 includes server 384. Server 384 may include processor 386 and memory 388. Memory 388 contains instructions executed by processor 386. Server 384 may, for example, receive at least one image of the aquatic plant culture from at least one image sensor 374. In response to receiving an image, server 384 may be configured to identify at least one of a variety of parameters related to the characteristics of the aquatic plant by employing at least one image processing technique on each received image. Furthermore, server 384 may determine one or more characteristics of the aquatic plant culture. The variety of characteristics may include, but is not limited to, morphological features (e.g., shape, size), color features (e.g., pigments of one or more aquatic plants), texture of the aquatic plant, transparency of the aquatic plant, etc. For example, server 384 may be configured to identify one or more discrete aquatic plants and / or one or more aquatic plants found at different reproductive stages (e.g., different growth stages). The aquatic plants may be found at different sizes, which may be measured by server 384 based on their surface area. Furthermore, server 384 can be configured to identify aquatic plants with different tissues, such as smooth tissues or tissues with spotted areas. These and other various non-limiting embodiments of the image processing technique described herein are described.

[0164] In some embodiments, the color of the aquatic plant can be determined by the pigments of elements found in the aquatic plant, such as carotenoids and / or chlorophyll and / or flavonoids. The pigments of the aquatic plant can be determined based on their density, reflected light wavelength, and absorption spectrum. For example, carotenoids having an approximate absorbance of about 420 nm to about 480 nm can have an orange pigment. As another example, typical chlorophyll has a green pigment, which, when referring to chlorophyll a, can be identified by an approximate maximum absorbance between about 430 nm and about 662 nm, while chlorophyll b has an approximate maximum absorbance between about 453 nm and about 642 nm. The color of a healthy or unhealthy aquatic plant can be determined by the amount and distribution of the pigments in the aquatic plant. The color of an unhealthy aquatic plant is a color outside the range of a healthy scheme for a given aquatic plant culture. For example, a healthy color scheme can result in colors with green and yellow hues.

[0165] In some embodiments, server 384 may be configured to identify multiple aquatic plants found in the culture and multiple aquatic plants found in the culture that have the same hue and / or pattern, shape, etc. In some embodiments, each identified parameter is stored in an entry in database 382, ​​the entry also including a timestamp when the respective image is received. In some embodiments, server 384 may be configured to store identified characteristics and / or states, such as identified growth stages, in database 382 along with the timestamps. Database 382 may serve as a log containing some or all of the information (including images, identified parameters, and identified characteristics and states) along with timestamps used for monitoring aquatic plant cultures over time.

[0166] Server 384 can also be configured to analyze parameters, characteristics, and their timestamps recorded in database 382 to determine at least one state of the aquatic culture. The state may be an accelerated growth rate, a decelerated growth rate, a stress level, a mortality level, and / or a mortality rate, etc. Each state can be determined by evaluating changes in identified parameters and / or characteristics over time. For example, server 384 may use at least one mathematical model to determine the biomass density of the culture. Furthermore, server 384 can be configured to facilitate early detection of contaminants by identifying changes in one or more of the pigment, tissue, and morphological characteristics of the aquatic plant. Contamination can occur due to the invasion of living elements (such as bacteria, algae, fungi, etc.) or due to chemical contamination by one or more elements or substances. It should be noted that if contamination occurs, the pigments of the aquatic plant may change, for example, from yellow and green hues to red and brown hues. Additionally, the morphological appearance of the aquatic plant may change due to the presence of contaminant elements or substances; for example, one or more aquatic plants may have rough tissue and / or deformed shapes. In addition, foreign bodies and foreign shapes that differ from the typical shape of the aquatic plants can be detected as pollutants.

[0167] In some embodiments, each parameter of the aquatic plant culture may be stored in an entry in database 382, ​​the entry also including a timestamp when individual images are received and / or captured. In some embodiments, server 384 may be configured to store defined characteristics and / or states, such as defined growth stages, in database 382 along with the timestamps. Thus, database 382 can be used as a log containing some or all of the information (including images, identified parameters, and defined characteristics and states) along with timestamps used for monitoring aquatic plant cultures over time.

[0168] In some implementations, server 384 may be configured to generate selective nutrient properties found in the aquatic plants, such as antioxidants, proteins, dietary chemicals, etc. Furthermore, server 384 may be configured to determine the growth phase of the culture (e.g., lag phase, exponential phase, stationary phase, death phase, and any intermediate phase).

[0169] During the lag phase of the growth cycle, the aquatic plants are maturing but not yet capable of asexual reproduction. During the lag phase, most of the aquatic plants are observed as discrete aquatic plants with low transparency. Furthermore, the color distribution of the pigments in the aquatic plants during the lag phase may be more green than yellow due to the presence of active pigments (e.g., chlorophyll) found in the aquatic plants. The exponential phase is the period when the discrete aquatic plants are reproducing asexually.

[0170] During the exponential growth phase, most of the aquatic plants connect to one or more parent plants (due to parent-offspring pairing after the offspring plants germinate from the parent plants). The transparency of these aquatic plants is typically relatively low, and their total pigment is usually significantly green. During the exponential growth phase, the number of parent-offspring pairs under different mutation states can be measured (e.g., using one or more image processing techniques discussed herein). The growth rate during this phase depends on growth conditions that affect the frequency of aquatic plant reproduction and the probability of survival of both parent and offspring aquatic plants.

[0171] The stationary phase is the period in which the growth rate and mortality rate are equal. The culture may contain aquatic plants connected to each other at different maturity stages (parent-offspring pairs), and healthy aquatic plants found as individuals, all exhibiting healthy green pigmentation. Additionally, a large number of unhealthy / dead aquatic plants can be detected by their bright yellow pigmentation and relatively high transparency. The number of new aquatic plants produced during the stationary phase is limited by growth factors such as the lack of essential nutrients and / or the secretion of contact inhibitors. Therefore, the growth rate of aquatic plants can match the mortality rate.

[0172] The death phase is the period when the aquatic plant is under lethal stress (e.g., nutrient depletion and light). During the death phase, most of the aquatic plants are found as individuals with bright yellow pigmentation and relatively high transparency. During the death phase, the color distribution of the pigments in the aquatic plant may be more yellow than green due to a sharp decrease in the content of active pigment molecules (e.g., chlorophyll).

[0173] Different growth stages can be classified by different shapes, colors, etc. In some embodiments, server 384 may be configured to store in database 382 at least one image of the culture, defined features, the growth stage of the culture, and other relevant data, along with a timestamp when the data is received, for future use.

[0174] Although Figure 4 A network for collecting, storing, and analyzing data from sensors 372 and 374 is shown, but control unit 370 may include all necessary components (such as a processor and memory) to perform the collection, storage, and analysis in the absence of a network. In the embodiments described, bioreactor 310 may include a standalone unit adapted to operate in the absence of a network. In some embodiments, the standalone bioreactor may act as a “server” for a variety of other bioreactors. In other words, the standalone bioreactor may be a management bioreactor that receives data collected by sensors 372 / 374 of other bioreactors as well as data collected by its own sensors 372 / 374.

[0175] Figure 5 An imaging system 390, according to one embodiment, is illustrated for collecting multi-view and multi-wavelength images of an aquatic plant culture 392 within a bioreactor 310. The imaging system 390 may include at least one image sensor 374, such as, but not limited to, a camera that collects light reflected from and / or transmitted through the culture 392. Various light sources may be positioned around the culture 392 to illuminate it with various forms of light of different wavelengths and illumination intensities. For example, a bright-field light source 394 and a dark-field light source 396 may generate light reflected from the culture 392 and collected by the image sensor 374. Additionally, a transmitted light source 398 may generate light collected by the image sensor 374 after it has passed through the culture 392. Each collected image may be captured by applying one or more light sources, each set to illuminate at a desired intensity as defined by the control unit 370.

[0176] Figure 6A This is an exemplary and non-limiting schematic diagram of a system 600 according to one embodiment. System 600 includes a bioreactor having four operating units: one or more input units (IU) 320, one or more growth units (GU) 330, one or more collection units (HU) 340, and one or more output units 360. Output units 360 can deliver collection portions of aquatic organisms or culture media intended for use as, for example, food or cosmetic substances. Output units 360 may include at least one nozzle for dispensing food or cosmetic substances.

[0177] Units 320, 330, 340, and 360 may be subsystems, each comprising one or more compartments, and the operation of each unit may be controlled by control unit 370. In some embodiments, control unit 370 may control a series of valves 622, 632, and 642, which allow the delivery of aquatic organisms from one operating unit to another. In some embodiments, one or more of the valves are unidirectional and allow the delivery of contents from a first unit to a second unit, for example, from growth unit 330 to collection unit 340. In some embodiments, one or more of the valves are bidirectional and allow the delivery of contents from a first unit to a second unit and from the second unit to the first unit (e.g., allowing the delivery of contents from growth unit 330 to collection unit 340 and from collection unit 340 to unit growth unit 330). The flow direction through the valves may be controlled by control unit 370.

[0178] In operation, aquatic organisms (e.g., aquatic plant cultures at a predetermined life stage) used as starting materials can be inserted into input unit 320. In input unit 320, the starting material enters via a contamination-free process and can then be sterilized in a controlled and monitored manner and exposed to light to stimulate maturation to a cultivation state. The monitoring and control of the process can be monitored and / or controlled by control unit 370.

[0179] The control unit 370 can perform a variety of physiological, chemical, and physical measurements related to ensuring a contamination-free state, biological vitality, growth rate, growth cycle, and culture health conditions, as well as environmental growth conditions such as temperature, ion concentration, O2 and CO2 concentrations, and light intensity. In some embodiments, the image may be an image of an aquatic plant culture present in the incubation growth chamber 321. In some embodiments, the image may be an image of an aquatic plant culture present in a tube received by the input unit 320 (e.g., an aquatic plant culture contained in chamber 2702 within tube 2700). In these embodiments, the vitality of the aquatic plant culture (e.g., the contamination status of the aquatic plant culture) can be determined before the culture is introduced into the incubation growth chamber 321, thereby reducing the possibility of contaminating the incubation growth chamber 321.

[0180] Once the aquatic plant culture has matured in the incubation growth chamber 321 and the control unit 370 confirms the absence of contamination, the mature and contamination-free aquatic plant culture can be transferred to the growth unit 330, for example, via valve 622. The growth unit 330 promotes the growth of the aquatic plant culture by providing and maintaining (biomimetic) optimal natural environmental conditions, including continuously monitoring and adjusting growth conditions to meet safety, quantity, and quality specifications. These optimal natural environmental conditions can be defined and provided as physical conditions (such as light and temperature levels and timing, water flow rate, air flow and pressure, and biodynamic concentrations), chemical conditions of the growth substrate (such as potential hydrogen, ion concentration, fertilizer compounds, dissolved CO2, and air composition), and physiological conditions (such as biomorphology, size, and color patterns). The control unit 370 monitors these environmental conditions by collecting data from sensors 372 and image sensors 374. Furthermore, the control unit 370 continuously monitors, adjusts, and optimizes these environmental conditions in real time.

[0181] When collection is required, the aquatic plant culture can be transferred, for example, via valve 632 to collection unit 340. Collection unit 340 can collect at least a portion of the aquatic plant culture. The collected culture can be cleaned to meet output criteria, such as food-grade criteria, and can then be transferred, for example, via valve 642 to one or more output units 360, through which it can be supplied to a user as a food or cosmetic substance. Monitoring and control of the entire collection process from valve 632 to output unit 360 can be controlled by control unit 370. In some embodiments, the collection process may include collecting a conditioned growth medium or substrate from growth unit 330, which may include components secreted from the culture, in combination with or without the aquatic plant culture itself.

[0182] Figure 6B For the purpose of providing an exemplary and non-limiting schematic diagram of a system 650 including a bioreactor according to another embodiment, details of the processing unit 350 are shown. In this embodiment, the collected culture is transferred from the collection unit 340 to the modification unit (MU) 652, to the customization unit (CU) 654, or in parallel or bidirectional sequential order to both, via valve 642. The culture can be transferred from the customization unit 654 to the modification unit 652 via valve 656 or from the modification unit 652 to the customization unit 654 via valve 658. In some embodiments, the parallel or bidirectional sequential transfer of the collected culture to the modification unit 652 and / or the customization unit 654 can be performed under the control of the control unit 370. In some embodiments, the transfer can be performed manually.

[0183] Control unit 370 controls the operation of modification unit 652 and customization unit 654. Modification unit 652 may include one or more compartments. Modification unit 652 can be configured to change the output food or cosmetic substance in terms of component content. This can be achieved by changing selected growth condition factors or a combination of changes in different factors that can cause or induce modification. These factors may include light intensity level and / or spectrum, substrate or air temperature, air gas mixture, fertilizer mixture changes, or any combination of these or other factors at different time intervals and durations. In some embodiments, the modification may include purifying and concentrating bioactive components from the organism and / or the conditioned medium or substrate. The collected culture may then be transferred via valve 662 and supplied to the user as a food or cosmetic substance through the one or more output units 360.

[0184] Customization unit 654 may include a single unit, a separate subsystem, or any combination thereof, and may include one or more compartments. In customization unit 654, the collected culture of the aquatic organism may be processed into a fresh output without additional treatment after a cleaning step and may undergo one or more physical alterations according to the user's preferences, such as, but not limited to, grinding and / or extruding the fresh food into a liquid product, drying it to a predetermined level between 95% and 5% water, turning it into a slurry at a desired viscosity level, or grinding it into a powder. These alterations may include various flavoring procedures or ingredient additions to achieve the desired result for future use or consumption. The collected culture of the aquatic organism may then be transferred via valve 662 and supplied to the user as a food or cosmetic substance through the one or more output units 360. In some embodiments, the collected culture of the aquatic organism may be transferred via valve 662 through modification unit 652 and customization unit 654 and then supplied to the user as a food or cosmetic substance through the one or more output units 360.

[0185] Using multiple parallel units in each stage of the systems 300, 600, or 650 facilitates the production of multiple and / or different food or beauty products and promotes the mixing of different products of food and / or beauty substances. For example, if there are two compartments in the input unit 320, it is possible to provide starting materials for two different organisms, which can be grown separately in two independent compartments in the growth unit 330 and then mixed into a single food in the collection unit 340. Alternatively, if the collection unit 340 includes multiple compartments, the control unit 370 can control the production such that the contents of the compartments in the growth unit 330 are transferred to the independent compartments of the collection unit 340.

[0186] In some embodiments, bioreactor 310 may include a display 376 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a light-emitting diode (LED) display) for displaying information to a user. Bioreactor 310 may also include a user interface 377 (e.g., a keyboard, buttons, or a touchscreen, which may or may not be integrated into display 376) for receiving commands from the user. Control unit 370 may be configured to control display 376 and receive commands from user interface 377. Display 376 and user interface 377 may allow the user to control various aspects of bioreactor 310. For example, display 376 and user interface 377 may allow the user to request a new container (e.g., container 2700), contact customer service, or review messages from a server (e.g., server 384 or 2606). As a non-limiting example, display 376 and user interface 377 may allow the user to review confirmations of requests to send new starting materials to bioreactor 310 (e.g., a new container 2700) and / or send signals to bioreactor 310 to distribute aquatic plant culture from output unit 360. The display 376 may also display one or more operating states of the bioreactor 310, such as, but not limited to, the temperature inside the bioreactor 310, the volume of aquatic plants inside the bioreactor 310, the network connection status of the bioreactor 310 (i.e., whether the bioreactor 310 is currently connected to the server), and the error status of the bioreactor 310.

[0187] The operation of monitoring at least one characteristic related to a culture of aquatic plants according to one implementation scheme will now be referred to. Figure 7 describe, Figure 7 An exemplary and non-limiting flowchart 700 is shown. According to one embodiment, the operation includes monitoring at least one of the shape, color, tissue, transparency, or size of an aquatic plant within the aquatic plant culture. In 710, the method begins when server 384 receives a request to determine at least one characteristic related to the aquatic plant culture. In 715, server 384 adjusts an imaging device, such as image sensor 374, and prepares to acquire an image. In 720, server 384 may receive at least one image of the culture, for example, from at least one image sensor 374. In 725, server 384 may identify at least one parameter among a variety of parameters related to the aquatic plant by applying at least one image processing technique to the at least one image. In 730, server 384 may store the identified parameter, along with the result of the image processing technique and a timestamp, in database 382.

[0188] In step 735, server 384 analyzes the results related to the identified parameters to determine at least one characteristic associated with the aquatic plant culture. Next, in step 740, server 384 stores the characteristic in database 382. Server 384 then determines whether there are any additional requirements in step 745. If an additional requirement exists, server 384 can restart the process at step 710. If no additional requirement exists, server 384 checks if any additional images need to be processed in step 750. If additional images need to be processed, server 384 returns to step 720. If no additional images need to be processed, server 384 continues to step 755. In step 755, server 384 determines that the parameters have changed over time. Finally, in step 760, server 384 performs integrated data analysis on each image, each sample, and each requested characteristic to determine the state of the aquatic plant culture.

[0189] The integrated data analysis may be, but is not limited to, image processing techniques that compare received images with reference data relating to parameters and features from stored images to determine the characteristics of the aquatic plant. The stored images include, but are not limited to, baseline images, reference images previously collected from the same culture, and / or reference images previously collected from different cultures stored in a database. The integrated data analysis may also include scoring of the desired features (see below for example...). Figure 24-25B (as described above) and compare the score for each feature with the previous score, reference score and / or baseline score.

[0190] The procedure for monitoring the levels of one or more selective nutrients found in cultures of aquatic plants according to one implementation scheme will now be referenced. Figure 8 describe, Figure 8An exemplary and non-limiting flowchart 800 is shown. According to one embodiment, the operation includes monitoring the levels or concentrations of substances such as antioxidants, proteins, dietary chemicals, etc., that can be found in the culture of aquatic plants. In some embodiments, the concentration of selective nutrients may be determined based on, for example, chlorophyll levels or carotenoid levels. In 810, the method begins when server 384 receives a request to determine at least one characteristic related to the levels of one or more selective nutrients in the culture. In some embodiments, server 384 may receive a request to monitor specific characteristics related to one or more selective nutrients in the culture of aquatic plants. In 815, server 384 may adjust an imaging device, such as image sensor 374, and prepare to acquire an image. In 820, server 384 may receive at least one image of the culture, for example, from at least one image sensor 374. In 825, server 384 may identify at least one parameter among a variety of parameters related to the aquatic plants and related to one or more selective nutrients by employing at least one image processing technique on the at least one image. Specifically, parameters related to pigment molecules (e.g., chlorophyll) found in the aquatic plant can be identified. In some embodiments, server 384 may be configured to determine the light absorption of pigment molecules by projecting light onto the culture (e.g., an approximate wavelength of about 520-570 nm in the visible spectrum in the case of chlorophyll detection). Chlorophyll makes the aquatic plant visible as green, and therefore, a lack of chlorophyll will make the aquatic plant appear less green and more yellow. In some embodiments, server 384 may be configured to use at least one mathematical model to determine the concentration of pigment molecules (e.g., chlorophyll in the culture).

[0191] In step 830, server 384 may store the identified parameters, along with the results of the image processing technique and a timestamp, in database 382. In step 835, server 384 may analyze the at least one parameter to determine the desired characteristics related to one or more selective nutrients in the aquatic plant culture. Next, in step 840, server 384 may store the characteristics in database 382. Server 384 may then determine if there are any additional requirements in step 845. If there is an additional requirement, server 384 may restart the process at step 810. If there is no additional requirement, server 384 may check if any additional images need to be processed in step 850. If there are additional images needing processing, server 384 may return to step 820. If no additional images need processing, server 384 may continue to step 855. In step 855, server 384 may determine that the parameters have changed over time. Finally, in 860, server 384 can perform integrated data analysis of each image, each sample, and each requested feature to determine at least one selective nutrient property of the aquatic plant culture.

[0192] The integrated data analysis may be, but is not limited to, image processing techniques that compare received images with reference data relating to parameters and features from stored images to determine one or more selective nutrient levels found in aquatic plant cultures. The stored images include, but are not limited to, baseline images, reference images previously collected from the same culture, and / or reference images previously collected from different cultures stored in a database. The integrated data analysis may also include scoring of the required features (see below for example...). Figure 24-25B (as described above) and compare the score for each feature with the previous score, reference score and / or baseline score.

[0193] In some embodiments, in 855, server 384 may be configured to retrieve information stored in database 382 to assess changes in pigment molecule levels. This can be used to determine the rate of stress in the culture. In these embodiments, a decrease in pigment molecule levels (e.g., chlorophyll levels) over time may indicate an increase in the level of stress in the culture. In other words, an increase in the level of stress in the culture may be reflected by a decrease in the intensity of green pigment deposition and the corresponding pale yellow hue in the appearance of the culture. In some embodiments, server 384 may be configured to generate the properties of selective nutrients found in the culture, for example, by determining the concentration of magnesium found in chlorophyll.

[0194] The procedure for determining the growth period or growth rate of aquatic plant cultures according to an implementation plan is as follows: Figure 9 describe, Figure 9An exemplary and non-limiting flowchart 900 is shown. In 910, the method begins when server 384 receives a request to determine at least one characteristic (e.g., *Lysimachia* growth) related to the growth period or growth rate of the culture of the aquatic plant. In 915, server 384 adjusts an imaging device, such as image sensor 374, and prepares to acquire an image. In 920, server 384 may receive, for example, at least one image of the culture from at least one image sensor 374.

[0195] In step 925, server 384 can identify at least one parameter related to the aquatic plant and its growth period or growth rate by applying at least one image processing technique to the at least one image. In some embodiments, server 384 may be configured to identify parameters related to at least one of, for example, the shape, size, tissue, transparency level, pigment (color), etc., of the aquatic plant. Furthermore, server 384 may be configured to identify multiple aquatic plants found to have the same shape, size, color, etc. In some embodiments, the analysis is performed at equal time intervals for consistency; however, in other embodiments, different strategies may be employed. In step 930, server 384 may store the identified parameters, along with the results of the image processing technique and a timestamp, in database 382. In step 935, server 384 may analyze the at least one parameter to determine a desired characteristic related to the growth period or growth rate of the aquatic plant culture. Then, in step 940, server 384 may store the characteristic in database 382. In some implementations, server 384 may be configured to store defined characteristics, such as defined growth periods, in database 382 along with timestamps. In some implementations, database 382 may be used as a log containing some or all of the information (including images, identified parameters, and defined characteristics) along with timestamps used to monitor aquatic plant cultures over time.

[0196] Server 384 may then determine if there are any additional requirements at 945. If an additional requirement exists, server 384 may again begin the process at 910. If no additional requirement exists, server 384 may check if any additional images need to be processed at 950. If additional images need to be processed, server 384 may return to 920. If no additional images need to be processed, server 384 may continue to 955. At 955, server 384 may evaluate changes in the identified parameters over time to determine the growth rate and / or growth period. Finally, at 960, server 384 may perform integrated data analysis of each image, each sample, and each requested feature to determine at least one of the growth period or growth rate of the aquatic plant culture.

[0197] The integrated data analysis may be, but is not limited to, image processing techniques that compare received images with reference data relating to parameters and features from stored images to determine the growth period and / or growth rate of aquatic plant cultures. The stored images include, but are not limited to, baseline images, reference images previously collected from the same culture, and / or reference images previously collected from different cultures stored in a database. The integrated data analysis may also include scoring of the required features (see below for example...). Figure 24-25B (as described above) and compare the score for each feature with the previous score, reference score and / or baseline score.

[0198] As a non-limiting example, server 384 can be configured to estimate changes over time in the number of aquatic plants whose shapes are found at different stages of asexual reproduction, as referenced below. Figure 12A Furthermore, server 384 may alternatively or further be configured to estimate changes in specific parameters (e.g., chlorophyll density, which is related to the intensity of green pigment) over time. Strong green pigment can indicate healthy aquatic plants; therefore, a decrease in green pigment levels can indicate that the culture is found to be under stress, which can indicate a slowdown in growth. Server 384 may be configured to use, for example, at least one mathematical model to determine the growth rate associated with multiple asexual reproduction events occurring in each culture segment and each unit of time. An increase in the number of asexual reproduction events in each culture segment and each unit of time can indicate an increase in the growth rate of the culture.

[0199] When most of the aquatic plants are connected to one or more aquatic plants (parent-offspring pairs or parent-offspring communities of 3-5 plants) and their corresponding pigments are intensely green, this may indicate that the culture is found in an exponential phase. If the offspring aquatic plants have less chlorophyll than their parents, this may indicate stress conditions. In this case, the pigments of the offspring aquatic plants will have a brighter green hue. When most of the aquatic plants are found as discrete aquatic plants, their pigments are more yellow than green, and their transparency is higher, which may indicate that the culture is found in an unhealthy state or even in a dying phase. In some embodiments, server 384 may be configured to determine the presence of contaminants by identifying, for example, abnormal shapes of aquatic plants along with the presence of abnormal pigments (e.g., pigments not found in the green to yellow color range), atypical tissues of the aquatic plants, etc.

[0200] In some implementations, server 384 may be configured to retrieve parameters regarding the identification of multiple images at several time points. Server 384 may be further configured to use said parameters to generate a histogram describing the growth phase of the culture. For example, as... Figure 12BAs shown, the growth period of the culture may include a lag phase 1260, an exponential phase 1265, a stationary phase 1270, and a decline phase 1275.

[0201] In some embodiments, server 384 may be configured to determine a state of stress and / or the presence of stress by evaluating changes over time in identified parameters related to the characteristics, such as changes in the shape, size, pigment (color), tissue, transparency, etc., of the aquatic plant. An increasing number of aquatic plants with different anomalous characteristics may indicate an increased level of stress, such as aquatic plants with unhealthy pigments (e.g., pigments not found in intensely green pigmentation), aquatic plants with reduced size, aquatic plants with increased transparency, aquatic plants with deformed tissue or shape, etc. In some embodiments, server 384 may be configured to use at least one mathematical model to determine the various anomalous aquatic plants present at each unit of time.

[0202] The procedure for detecting contamination events in aquatic plant cultures according to an implementation plan is as follows: Figure 10 describe, Figure 10 An exemplary and non-limiting flowchart 1000 is shown. In 1010, the method begins when server 384 receives a request to determine at least one characteristic related to a contamination event in the culture of the aquatic plant. Contamination can occur due to the invasion of, for example, bacteria, algae, fungi, etc. In 1015, server 384 adjusts an imaging device, such as image sensor 374, and prepares to acquire an image. In 1020, server 384 may receive at least one image of the culture, for example, from at least one image sensor 374. In 1025, server 384 may identify at least one parameter related to the aquatic plant and to the contamination event in the culture by applying at least one image processing technique to the at least one image. In 1030, server 384 may store the identified parameter, along with the result of the image processing technique and a timestamp, in database 382.

[0203] In 1035, server 384 can analyze the parameters to determine desired characteristics related to the contamination status of the aquatic plant. For example, server 384 can be configured to identify the distribution of colors in the pigments of the aquatic plant by projecting a combination of base colors with specific wavelengths onto the culture. In response, the culture will reflect light of different wavelengths, depending on one or more elements found in each aquatic plant. The wavelengths of the reflected light can be analyzed to determine characteristics, i.e., color, associated with each element in the aquatic plant. For example, chlorophyll reflects light as a green color with an approximate wavelength of about 520-570 nm, which is in the visible spectrum.

[0204] Additionally, server 384 can be configured to analyze light passing through the surface of the aquatic plant. This can be used to identify the shape and / or size of the aquatic plant. Reflected light will indicate the presence of an aquatic plant at a certain location, while the passage of light will indicate the absence of an aquatic plant at that location. Furthermore, server 384 can be configured to identify aquatic plants with abnormal tissue by, for example, comparing an image received from image sensor 374 with at least one image of aquatic plants with normal tissue found in database 382.

[0205] In step 1040, server 384 may store the features in database 382. Server 384 may then determine if there are any additional requirements in step 1045. If there is an additional requirement, server 384 may start the process again at step 1010. If there is no additional requirement, server 384 may check if there are any additional images that need to be processed in step 1050. If there are additional images that need to be processed, server 384 may return to step 1020. If there are no additional images to process, server 384 may continue to step 1055. In step 1055, server 384 may determine how the parameters have changed over time.

[0206] Typically, if contamination occurs, the pigments of the aquatic plants will change from, for example, yellow and green to red and brown. Additionally, the morphological appearance of the aquatic plants can be altered due to, for example, bacteria, algae, fungi, etc., found in the culture, or due to chemical contamination. These morphological changes can manifest, for example, as rough tissues and / or deformed surfaces of one or more aquatic plants. In some embodiments, server 384 may be configured to identify deformed surfaces by recognizing changes in light passing through the aquatic plants. In some embodiments, server 384 may store in database 382 a timestamp when the image was received along with the identified parameters. In some embodiments, server 384 may be configured to store in database 382 determined features, such as contamination event characteristics, along with the timestamps. In some embodiments, database 382 may serve as a log containing some or all of the information (including images, identified parameters, and determined features) along with timestamps used for monitoring aquatic plant cultures over time.

[0207] Finally, in 1060, server 384 can perform integrated data analysis on each image, each sample, and each requested feature to determine whether the aquatic plant culture is contaminated. The integrated data analysis may be, but is not limited to, image processing techniques that compare the received images with reference data relating parameters and features from stored images to determine whether the aquatic plant culture is contaminated. The stored images include, but are not limited to, baseline images, reference images previously collected from the same culture, and / or reference images previously collected from different cultures stored in a database. The integrated data analysis may also include scoring of the requested features (see below for example...). Figure 24-25B (as described above) and compare the score for each feature with the previous score, reference score and / or baseline score.

[0208] If server 384 determines that the culture is contaminated, then server 384 may first determine the level of contamination. If server 384 determines that the contamination is "low-level" contamination, then server 384 may implement anti-contamination measures. Anti-contamination measures include, but are not limited to, UV cycling, washing cycling, increasing the pH of the culture, changing the growth medium of the culture, and changing light or temperature conditions. After the implementation of anti-contamination measures, server 384 may, for example, employ... Figure 10 The method described herein monitors the reaction and contamination status of the culture in real time. If server 384 determines that the contamination has been eliminated, then server 384 can restore standard operating conditions and continue growing the culture. If server 384 determines that the contamination cannot be eliminated, then server 384 can lock output unit 360 and can send a change report to the user and / or to the control center.

[0209] The procedure for determining the vitality or health status of aquatic plant culture according to an implementation plan is as follows: Figure 11 describe, Figure 11An exemplary and non-limiting flowchart 1100 is shown. In 1110, the method begins when server 384 receives a request to determine at least one characteristic (e.g., *Lemna minor* growth) related to the vitality or health status of a culture of aquatic plants. In 1115, server 384 adjusts an imaging device, such as image sensor 374, and prepares to acquire an image. In 1120, server 384 may receive at least one image of the culture, for example, from at least one image sensor 374. In 1125, server 384 may identify at least one parameter related to the aquatic plant and its vitality or the health status of the culture by applying at least one image processing technique to the at least one image. In 1130, server 384 may store the identified parameter, along with the results of the image processing technique and a timestamp, in database 382. In 1135, server 384 may analyze the parameter to determine the requested characteristic related to the vitality or health of the aquatic plant.

[0210] For example, server 384 can instruct imaging system 390 to project light of different wavelengths and / or illuminance levels onto the culture. Furthermore, imaging system 390 captures reflected light in the image. Server 384 can then analyze the image in terms of different wavelengths and illumination conditions. In some embodiments, server 384 can be configured to identify the distribution of pigmentation in the image of the aquatic plant. For example, but not limited to, server 384 can be configured to identify light passing through the surface of the aquatic plant, the light changing according to variations in the surface of the aquatic plant. Furthermore, server 384 can be configured to identify one or more morphological characteristics, such as the shape and / or size of the aquatic plant. In some embodiments, server 384 can be configured to identify, for example, the shape of a single whorl (representing a separate aquatic plant), two or more whorls of aquatic plants connected to each other (representing parent-offspring pairs found in asexual reproduction), etc. Furthermore, the size of the aquatic plant can be measured by server 384 based on its surface area.

[0211] Additionally, server 384 may be configured to identify the texture and / or transparency level of the aquatic plant. Generally, the transparency level of a material describes its relative ability to allow light to pass through or reflect light from it. To determine the transparency level of an aquatic plant, server 384 may be configured to measure, for example, the amount of light passing through the aquatic plant. Furthermore, to identify the texture of the aquatic plant, server 384 may be configured to analyze the received image by comparing it with images stored in database 382. Aquatic plants generally have areas with smooth or spotted tissue in a prescribed distribution. Therefore, in some embodiments, when server 384 identifies an aquatic plant with different tissue distributions, other tissue types, and / or a high transparency level, server 384 may be configured to consider it an unhealthy aquatic plant. Furthermore, in some embodiments, server 384 may be configured to identify the number of aquatic plants found to have the same pigments, shapes, tissues, etc.

[0212] Server 384 may be configured to determine the density of a culture of aquatic plants, for example, by evaluating changes in the intensity of light passing through the aquatic plants. Alternatively, server 384 may be configured to use at least one mathematical model to measure the mass of aquatic plants found in a given volume.

[0213] At 1140, server 384 may store the features in database 382. A timestamp may be stored along with the features at 1140. Server 384 may then determine at 1145 whether there are any additional requirements. If an additional requirement exists, server 384 may restart the process at 1110. If no additional requirement exists, server 384 may check if any additional images need to be processed at 1150. If additional images need to be processed, server 384 may return to 1120. If no additional images need to be processed, server 384 may continue to 1155. At 1155, server 384 may determine the changes in the parameters over time.

[0214] Finally, in 1160, server 384 can perform integrated data analysis on each image, each sample, and each requested feature to determine the viability or health of the culture based on parameters identified in 1125 and one or more features related to the aquatic plant growth cycle. For example, in some embodiments, asexual reproduction is characterized by aquatic plants connected to each other. Furthermore, the decline phase can be characterized by aquatic plants exhibiting a lack of green pigment and high transparency levels. Additionally, healthy aquatic plants may be characterized by, for example, intense green pigment. The presence of non-green or yellow pigments can indicate the presence of contamination. And the connection between at least two aquatic plants can suggest a parent-offspring relationship.

[0215] The integrated data analysis performed in 1160 may be, but is not limited to, image processing techniques that compare received images with reference data relating to parameters and features from stored images to determine the vigor or health status of aquatic plant cultures. The stored images include, but are not limited to, baseline images, reference images previously collected from the same culture, and / or reference images previously collected from different cultures stored in a database. The integrated data analysis may also include scoring of the required features (see below for example...). Figure 24-25B (as described above) and compare the score for each feature with the previous score, reference score and / or baseline score.

[0216] Figure 7-11 The operations described herein can be integrated, either wholly or partially. Furthermore, although... Figure 7-11 The operation described herein has already pertained to a network with servers and a database, but it should be understood that the control unit 370 may contain all the necessary components to perform operations in the absence of a network. Figure 7-11 The operation within the system. In the embodiments described, bioreactor 310 may include a separate unit adapted to operate in the absence of a network. Additionally, in some embodiments, control unit 370 may be understood to include server 384 and database 382. Furthermore, it should be understood that any operation discussed herein as being performed by control unit 370 may also be performed wholly or partially by server 384.

[0217] The procedure for monitoring culture growth over time is as follows (refer to) Figure 12A describe, Figure 12A A histogram 1200 is generated for a culture of aquatic plants according to one embodiment. Various parameters identified at several time points related to multiple images can be retrieved from a database 382. In some embodiments, a server 384 can assess changes in the shape of the aquatic plants over time. The server 384 can also be configured to count the number of aquatic plants found to have a certain shape at each time point. The aquatic plants can be found, for example, as discrete aquatic plants 1210, parent aquatic plants with small circular shapes 1220 connected to young progeny aquatic plants, parent aquatic plants with further developed circular shapes 1230 connected to early progeny aquatic plants, parent aquatic plants with almost fully developed circular shapes 1240 connected to grown progeny aquatic plants, and two aquatic plants (parent aquatic plants with mature progeny of similar size, connected to each other) 1250.

[0218] By identifying the shapes of the aquatic plants and quantifying the number of aquatic plants with the same shape for each shape, server 384 can determine the growth stage of the culture. For example, when most of the aquatic plants are found as discrete aquatic plants 1210 (e.g., Figure 14As shown), server 384 can determine that the culture was found in the lag phase 1260. When server 384 identifies a variety of shapes 1210 to 1250 (as shown), server 384 can determine that the culture was found in the lag phase 1260. Figure 17C When aquatic plants (at the typical ratio demonstrated in the text) are present, server 384 can determine that the culture is found in the exponential phase 1265. As a non-limiting example, server 384 can be configured to identify most aquatic plants as discrete aquatic plants 1210 with high transparency levels and more yellow pigment than green pigment. In this example, the culture can be identified as being in the decline phase (e.g., ...). Figure 12B The culture of stage 1275.

[0219] Server 384 can be configured to generate a histogram 1200 of aquatic plant biomass accumulation over time with respect to its shape. Figure 12A In the diagram, the X-axis 1280 represents the timeline and the Y-axis 1290 represents the natural logarithm (ln) function of aquatic plant biomass accumulation. In some embodiments, the server 384 may also assess changes in the pigments and transparency levels of the aquatic plants to determine the growth stage of the culture.

[0220] Figure 13 An exemplary image 1300 collected by the imaging system 390 is shown. Image 1300 contains aquatic plants at various developmental stages, including a separate aquatic plant 1210, a parent aquatic plant connected to a small circular shape 1220 of a young progeny aquatic plant, a parent aquatic plant connected to a further developed circular shape 1230 of an early progeny aquatic plant, a parent aquatic plant connected to a nearly fully developed circular shape 1240 of a grown progeny aquatic plant, and two aquatic plants (parent aquatic plants with mature progeny of similar size) 1250 connected to each other. Figure 13 Dense chlorophyll with spotted tissue regions (such as region 1212) is also shown, which can be used by control unit 370 to classify healthy cultures of aquatic plants. The outer region 1214 of the aquatic plant, with smooth tissue and bright color, can be used by control unit 370 to classify the color and tissue of the aquatic plant. Furthermore, the connecting region 1245 between the parent and offspring plants can be identified by control unit 370. The connecting region 1245 is typically the darkest green area and can be used by control unit 370 to determine the growth stage of the aquatic plant culture. For example, a large number of connecting regions 1245 would indicate that the culture is currently in the exponential stage 1265.

[0221] Figure 14Another exemplary image 1400, collected by imaging system 390, shows a healthy culture of aquatic plants found in lag phase 1260. During operation, image 1400 of the culture can be received by server 384 from image sensor 374. Image 1400 can be analyzed using at least one image processing technique to identify features associated with the aquatic plants. For example, by projecting light of approximately 520-570 nm in the visible spectrum onto the culture and capturing the image using image sensor 374, the culture is found to have significant green pigment, which represents healthy aquatic plants. Furthermore, most of the aquatic plants are found as individuals 1210 with low transparency levels. In this case, server 384 can determine that the found culture is in lag phase 1260 based on the identification of these features.

[0222] Figure 15 An exemplary image 1500 collected by imaging system 390 is shown, illustrating a healthy culture of aquatic plants discovered during exponential period 1265. During operation, image 1500 of the culture can be received by server 384 from image sensor 374. The image can be analyzed using at least one image processing technique to identify features associated with the aquatic plants. For example, by projecting light of approximately 520-570 nm in the visible spectrum onto the culture and capturing the image by image sensor 374, the culture is found to have significant green pigment, representing healthy aquatic plants. Furthermore, when analyzing the culture, server 384 can be configured to identify aquatic plants with different shapes and low levels of transparency. According to image 1500, the culture contains multiple parental aquatic plants 1210 found as discrete aquatic plants, multiple parental aquatic plants connected to small circular shapes 1220 of young progeny aquatic plants, multiple parental aquatic plants connected to further developed circular shapes 1230 of early progeny aquatic plants, multiple parental aquatic plants connected to almost fully developed circular shapes 1240 of grown progeny aquatic plants, and multiple parental aquatic plants connected to mature progeny 1250. In this case, based on the identification of these features and their typical relative distribution, server 384 can determine that the discovered culture is in the exponential phase 1265.

[0223] Figure 16An exemplary image 1600 collected by imaging system 390 is shown, illustrating a healthy culture of aquatic plants discovered during stationary phase 1270. During operation, image 1600 of the culture can be received by server 384 from image sensor 374. The image can be analyzed using at least one image processing technique to identify features associated with the aquatic plants. For example, by projecting light onto the culture and capturing the image using image sensor 374, server 384 can be configured to identify the distribution of green and yellow pigments in the aquatic plants. Furthermore, server 384 can be configured to determine that different aquatic plants have different levels of transparency based on analysis of the light passing through the aquatic plants.

[0224] According to image 1600, the culture contains healthy aquatic plants (e.g., aquatic plant 1610) and unhealthy / dying aquatic plants (e.g., aquatic plant 1620). Healthy aquatic plant 1610 is identified by the distribution and intensity of its green pigmentation. Light reflected from healthy aquatic plant 1610 will appear more green than yellow due to the presence of active pigment molecules (e.g., chlorophyll). Unhealthy / dying aquatic plants are identified by their bright yellow pigmentation, which falls outside the range of healthy plants. In this case, unhealthy / dying aquatic plant 1620 appears more yellow than green, indicating a lack of active pigment molecules (e.g., chlorophyll). When the aquatic plants die, the absence of active pigment molecules is observed. Additionally, server 384 can be configured to identify the transparency level of the aquatic plants. The transparency level of unhealthy / dying aquatic plant 1620 is higher than that of healthy aquatic plant 1610. In this case, based on the identification of these characteristics, server 384 can determine that the culture was found in its decaying phase. In contrast, the detection of a relatively small number of dying detached plants and / or a relatively small number of parent-offspring pairs (where the parent (larger plant) is detected as dying plant 1620) can indicate a healthy culture with a normal senescence rate of detached plant 1630. In this case, server 384 can determine that the culture was found in a stationary phase.

[0225] Figure 17A -C indicates that, according to an exemplary implementation of the system 300 in use, the culture transitions from the lag phase 1260 to the exponential phase 1265. Figure 17A The distribution of various aquatic plant cells according to their development is shown at the beginning of lag phase 1260. At the beginning of lag phase 1260, there are numerous diagenetic plants 1210 and no mature parent / daughter plants 1250. When the culture begins to grow, as... Figure 17B As shown, the distribution changes. Finally, as... Figure 17CAs shown, the number of mature parent / offspring plants 1250 is highest when the culture reaches its high growth phase (exponential phase 1265). The control unit 370 can be configured to monitor and control the growth conditions of the aquatic plant culture by using changes in the distribution of aquatic plants over time at various developmental stages.

[0226] For example, under continuous standard growth conditions, the culture should be in the exponential phase, thereby producing biomass at a high rate. The control unit 370 continuously monitors this growth phase to ensure the exponential phase by adjusting growth conditions (e.g., light intensity, temperature, fertilizer elements in the growth medium, pH, and water cycle) in real time. Additionally, depending on the growth phase of the culture, it is preferable to provide a portion of the culture for harvesting only during the exponential phase. Furthermore, if a requirement arises to slow the culture growth rate due to, for example, a reduction in the required output, the culture growth conditions can be altered by reducing light intensity, causing a transition from the exponential phase to the lag phase. The control unit 370 can monitor this transition to ensure the desired result is achieved by adjusting the conditions in real time. Similar control occurs after a requirement to increase the biomass production rate.

[0227] Figure 18 An exemplary image 1800, collected by imaging system 390, is shown, illustrating an image 1800 of a contaminated culture of aquatic plants. During operation, the image 1800 of the culture may be received by server 384 from image sensor 374. Image 1800 may be analyzed using at least one image processing technique to identify, for example, pigmentation, tissue, and morphological characteristics of the aquatic plants. In some embodiments, aquatic plants with unhealthy colors, such as aquatic plant 1810, are identified in the culture. Generally, the color of an unhealthy aquatic plant is defined as a color outside the range of a healthy pattern for a particular culture. The healthy pigmentation pattern may include the distribution of hues in green and yellow color scales. In contrast, the distribution of colors for unhealthy aquatic plants may be in red to brown color scales. The culture in image 1800 contains normal aquatic plants, such as aquatic plant 1820 with a normal shape of a parent aquatic plant having a small, round shape attached to young offspring aquatic plants (as described above regarding...). Figure 12A The server 384 can therefore determine that the culture in image 1800 is contaminated after identifying these features, including aquatic plants with abnormal morphological appearances (e.g., aquatic plant 1810).

[0228] The operation of growing aquatic organisms according to an implementation plan is now referred to. Figure 19A -B description, Figure 19A-B illustrates an exemplary and non-limiting flowchart 1900. In 1905, the aquatic starting material is inserted into the system via input unit 320, where it is prepared to enter growth unit 330. At this stage, the user may be able to select different materials (plant species) using the same system or a mixture to meet different nutritional or functional needs. In 1910, the aquatic organism matures via input unit 320. In 1915, the maturity of the starting culture of the aquatic organism is checked based on an array of standard physiological, chemical, and physical measurements that can be read by counting methods by control unit 370. If satisfactory, then proceed to 1925; otherwise, proceed to 1920. In 1920, the maturation process is modified and controlled by control unit 370, and 1915 continues. In 1925, the culture continues to grow and expand under the supervision of control unit 370. In step 1930, it is checked whether the growing culture meets the array of prescribed physiological, chemical, and physical criteria measured by control unit 370. If it does, execution continues to step 1935. Otherwise, execution continues to step 1945. In step 1935, it is checked whether the culture continues to grow. If it does, execution continues to step 1930; otherwise, execution terminates and the culture is collected. In step 1945, it is checked whether the culture continues to grow. If it does, execution continues to step 1950; otherwise, execution terminates. If an error occurs, control unit 370 may generate a status alarm report, which notifies the technical support team that the growth operation can continue to be manually operated. If the technical support team or different users request termination of the growth operation, control unit 370 may discard the culture while continuing to output other fully matured cultures via a collection and output process. Alternatively, after a user requests termination, the user may manually discard the culture via a discharge valve.

[0229] In 1950, a new starting material was checked based on the prescribed criteria. If a new starting material was needed, then 1905 was continued; otherwise, 1955 was continued, in which the growth conditions were modified, and then 1930 was continued.

[0230] The operation of delivering consumable substances to a user according to one implementation plan is now referred to. Figure 20A -B description, Figure 20A-B illustrates an exemplary and non-limiting flowchart 2000. In 2010, an output is requested via control unit 370. In 2020, a portion of the culture is collected. In 2030, it is checked whether the culture needs modification, and if so, proceed to 2040; otherwise, proceed to 2050. In 2040, the culture is modified (e.g., in modification unit 652) into a consumable substance such as food or effective cosmetic substance to meet expected user preferences. In 2050, it is checked whether the culture needs customization, and if so, proceed to 2060; otherwise, proceed to 2070. In 2060, the culture is customized (e.g., in customization unit 654) according to user preferences conveyed via control unit 370 (e.g., via display 376 and / or user interface 377). In 2070, the consumable substance is delivered via the one or more output units (e.g., output unit 360). In step 2080, check if there is an additional output requirement, and if so, continue to step 2010; otherwise, terminate the execution.

[0231] like Figure 19A -B The operation of growing the aquatic organisms and as described above Figure 20A -B The operation of delivering the consumable material output described herein can be integrated wholly or partially. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a self-contained manufacturing apparatus can be provided, capable of providing multiple stages for the controlled growth of the product material through the automated delivery of starting materials.

[0232] Although Figure 19A-20B The operation described herein has already pertained to a network with servers and a database, but it should be understood that the control unit 370 may contain all the necessary components to perform operations in the absence of a network. Figure 19A-20B The operation within the network. In the embodiment described, the bioreactor 310 may include independent units adapted to operate in the absence of a network.

[0233] The operation of bioreactor 310 is controlled based on at least one image processing technique, as referenced below. Figure 21 describe, Figure 21An exemplary and non-limiting flowchart 2100 is shown. In step 2110, control unit 370 receives at least one image from at least one image sensor 374. Control unit 370 then performs image processing techniques in 2120 based on at least one parameter related to the aquatic plant to determine at least one feature related to the aquatic plant. The at least one parameter may be, but is not limited to, the surface area of ​​the aquatic plant, the density of the aquatic plant, the amount of light absorbed by the aquatic plant, the wavelength of light reflected from the surface of the aquatic plant, the wavelength of light transmitted through the aquatic plant, and the distribution of the wavelengths in the reflected or transmitted light. And the at least one feature may include, but is not limited to, the shape of the aquatic plant, the size of the aquatic plant, the pigment (color) of the aquatic plant, the texture of the aquatic plant, or the transparency of the aquatic plant.

[0234] In step 2130, the control unit 370 determines at least one state of the culture based on the determined characteristics. In 2130, the determined state may be, but is not limited to, a healthy culture, a contaminated culture, a dead culture, a dying culture, biomass density, mortality rate, growth stage of the culture, selective nutrient properties, growth rate of the culture, and vitality of the culture. In step 2140, the control unit 370 controls the operation of the bioreactor based on at least one characteristic and / or state of the aquatic plant determined by the image processing technology.

[0235] In some embodiments, the control unit 370 may be configured to regulate at least one growth condition. The at least one growth condition may include, but is not limited to, light level, spectrum, light interval, temperature, fertilizer element content, water content, vapor pressure, humidity, pH, ion concentration, oxygen concentration, CO2 content, culture density, airflow, growth solution flow rate, and culture flow rate. In some embodiments, the control unit 370 may be configured to control at least one valve 622, 632, 642, 656, 658, or 662 based on the at least one characteristic and / or state. In some embodiments, the control unit 370 may be configured to control at least one requirement for a specific modified or customized process based on the at least one characteristic and / or state. In some embodiments, the control unit 370 may be configured to control requirements for at least one input based on the at least one characteristic and / or state. In some embodiments, the control unit 370 may be configured to control at least one system-error state based on the at least one characteristic and / or state.

[0236] According to an embodiment, based on data analysis from sensor 372 and image sensor 374, and referring to the operation of modifying the culture conditions within bioreactor 310, the following is now described. Figure 22 describe, Figure 22An exemplary and non-limiting flowchart 2200 is described. In step 2210, control unit 370 collects data from sensor 372 and image sensor 374. Control unit 370 may adjust settings and collection criteria for sensor 372 and image sensor 374 based on the operating state of bioreactor 310 determined in step 2240. Data collected from sensor 372 may include, for example, light level, temperature, fertilizer content, water content, vapor pressure, humidity, pH, ion concentration, oxygen concentration, CO2 content, culture density, culture flow rate, and other suitable culture data. Image sensor 374, which may include, for example, one or more cameras, may collect continuous and real-time images of the aquatic plant culture. In step 2220, control unit 370 performs image processing techniques to determine at least one characteristic of the aquatic plant culture. The at least one characteristic may include, for example, the shape of the aquatic plant, the size of the aquatic plant, the pigment (color) of the aquatic plant, the texture of the aquatic plant, or the transparency of the aquatic plant. For example, in some embodiments, in step 2220, control unit 370 may determine, as referenced above... Figure 11 The viability of the aquatic plant culture. Furthermore, as referenced above, for example... Figure 9 and 10 The control unit 370 can also determine the growth rate of the aquatic plant culture and / or whether there is contamination in the culture.

[0237] In step 2230, the control unit receives the set operating state of the bioreactor provided in step 2240 and compares the set operating state with the characteristics determined in step 2230. For example, the control unit 370 may be configured to determine the current growth stage of the culture (e.g., reseeding, dormancy, harvesting) and compare the stage with the characteristics of the aquatic plant culture determined in step 2230. In step 2250, based on the operating state and characteristics determined in step 2220, the control unit 370 determines whether the growth conditions within the bioreactor 310 need to be changed and outputs the actions or plans required to adjust the growth conditions in step 2260. For example, the control unit 370 may be configured to adjust the light level, temperature, fertilizer, water content, ventilation (humidity and CO2 content), culture density, and culture flow rate within the bioreactor 310. In some embodiments, the control unit 370 may be configured to operate valves 622, 632, 642, 656, 658, and 662 based on the collected and analyzed data. For example, using data from sensors 372 and 374, control unit 370 can be configured to move the aquatic plant culture to collection unit 340 after the culture has reached a stable period 1270 in growth unit 330. Furthermore, using data from sensors 372 and 374, control unit 370 can be configured to optimize growth conditions within bioreactor 310, thereby ensuring high yields of aquatic plants while maintaining and protecting their food-grade quality. If control unit 370 determines that the growth conditions of the culture have been optimized, then control unit 370 can be configured to take no action. Additionally, based on adjustments made to the growth conditions arranged in step 2260, control unit 370 can adjust data collection settings (i.e., image collection settings for imaging system 390) in step 2270.

[0238] According to one embodiment, the operation of determining the characteristics of the aquatic plant culture and adjusting the growth conditions within the bioreactor 310 using exemplary image processing techniques in steps 2220 to 2260 will now be referred to. Figure 23A , 23B And 24 are described.

[0239] like Figure 24 As described herein, the control unit 370 can be configured to analyze one or more parameters related to the characteristics (e.g., shape, color, tissue, transparency, size) of discrete aquatic plants within an aquatic plant culture. The control unit 370 can also be configured to guide the imaging system 390 to capture multiple images of the same aquatic culture and score each image (inflow, such as...). Figure 25A-B (the four images discussed). Each image of the aquatic plant culture is scored (i.e., score 1 to score n) based on the characteristics of the discrete aquatic plants within the aquatic plant culture. As a non-limiting example, an image showing a large number of discrete healthy green plants may be given a high color score, while an image showing a large number of unhealthy discrete bright yellow plants may be given a low color score. The control unit 370 can analyze the various discrete plants within each image of the culture to determine a score for each feature. For example, the control unit 370 may refer to the following... Figure 25A -B describes determining the shape score of an aquatic culture by averaging the shape scores of each image (e.g., four images) taken of the culture. Based on the score for each image of the aquatic plant culture, the control unit 370 integrates the specific scores for each feature, for example via vector mathematics, and determines the state of the culture (e.g., healthy (in a lag phase, exponential phase, or stationary phase), unhealthy, stressed, dying, dead, or contaminated).

[0240] Figure 24 The hexagonal diagram in the image is an example of typical scores for cultures in different states. For instance, dead cultures receive low scores for each characteristic and therefore show scores with values ​​located at... Figure 24 Points near the center of the hexagonal graph in the middle. In contrast, cultures in the exponential phase receive high scores and show points located near the outer edge of the hexagonal graph. In some embodiments, the control unit 370 may compare the score for each culture with previously collected data and / or the hexagonal graph to determine the state of different cultures.

[0241] Figure 23A and 23B This illustrates how the control unit 370 can alter the growth conditions within bioreactor 310 after performing image processing techniques on the aquatic plant culture. In both graphs, the y-axis represents the relative health of the aquatic plant culture, and the x-axis represents time (in days). Figure 23A and 23B In this study, aquatic plant cultures were starved for 6 days under three different conditions (groups 1, 2, and 3). Images of two culture samples from each group were captured every 24 hours and analyzed using the image processing techniques (algorithms) described herein. Selective physical parameters of the individual plants and / or the cultures as a whole were measured, and mathematical and statistical methods were then applied to provide classification scores for shape and pigmentation (color) characteristics. Figure 23A and 23BAs shown, scores for shape and pigmentation (color) characteristics reflect the gradual transition from a healthy state to a severely unhealthy state up to day 6. After day 6, the control unit 370 was allowed to reverse the starvation conditions by inducing physical changes in the culture media of groups 2 and 3, but not group 1 (i.e., regulating growth conditions), while group 1 remained a control under its starvation conditions. Images of the two culture samples from each group were further captured every 24 hours until day 10 and analyzed using the image processing techniques (algorithms) described herein.

[0242] The analysis revealed that cultures in groups 2 and 3 responded positively to the changes in their growth conditions, demonstrating a reversal pattern back to a healthy state. In contrast, the healthy state of group 1 continued to decline. For comparison, images of the control group were also captured and analyzed using the image processing techniques (algorithms) described herein. Figure 23A and 23B Both indicate that the control unit 370 can detect unhealthy cultures (e.g., stressed or dying cultures) and alter the growth conditions within the bioreactor 310 to produce healthy aquatic plants and optimize the output. Furthermore, Figure 23A and 23B This demonstrates that the control unit 370 can optimize growth conditions for relatively healthy aquatic plants. For example, if the control unit 370 detects that the color of the aquatic plant culture changes from predominantly green to more yellow, then the control unit 370 can adjust the growth conditions within the bioreactor to ensure that the aquatic plants are not dying.

[0243] The operation of determining the shape fraction of a culture of aquatic plants using exemplary image processing techniques will now be referenced. Figure 25A and 25B Description. First, the control unit 370 instructs the imaging system to capture four images of three different cultures (cultures 1, 2, and 3). The control unit 370 can instruct the imaging system 390 to capture the required number of images for each culture. In some embodiments, the imaging system 390 can capture fewer than four images of the aquatic plant culture. In some embodiments, the imaging system 390 can capture more than four images of the aquatic plant culture.

[0244] After collecting images, the control unit 370 can identify at least one parameter related to the shape of multiple discrete aquatic plants in each image captured for each culture. In some embodiments, the number of discrete aquatic plants may be, but is not limited to, at least 500 aquatic plants. Based on the at least one identified parameter related to shape, the control unit 370 can be configured to determine the number of aquatic plants with the same shape (i.e., shapes 1210 to 1250) within each culture. Figure 25B An exemplary bar graph is shown, illustrating the relative distribution of aquatic plants with the same shape in cultures 1, 2, and 3. Figure 25B The exemplary image in the image includes discrete aquatic plants from all four images taken from each aquatic plant culture.

[0245] Each bar (S1 to S5) represents the relative count for a specific shape. For example, bar S1 for culture 1 represents the relative number of discrete aquatic plants within the culture that have a shape corresponding to discrete aquatic plant 1210. The relative count for each shape (S1 to Sn) within the culture and the number of shape variants (Sn”) for the culture can be expressed as follows:

[0246] Relative counts of the specific shapes (S1…Sn) of each culture:

[0247] S1 = [the average of S1(i1.1)...S1(in.n')]

[0248] S2 = [the average of S2(i1.1)...S2(in.n')]

[0249] S3 = [the average of S3(i1.1)...S3(in.n')]

[0250] Regarding the number of shape variants (Sn”) of the culture:

[0251] Sn” = [the average of Sn”(i1.1)...Sn”(in.n')]

[0252] in:

[0253] "S" refers to shape.

[0254] “i” means image;

[0255] n is an integer representing the number of samples taken from the culture (e.g., 1-2);

[0256] n' is an integer representing the number (e.g., 1-2) of images taken for each culture sample (e.g., after sample mixing); and

[0257] "n" is an integer representing the number of shape variations.

[0258] The following matrix illustrates an exemplary numbering scheme for images (i1.1, i1.2, etc.) of aquatic plant cultures taken at specific points in time.

[0259]

[0260] Based on the relative counts for each shape in each image taken of the aquatic plant culture, the control unit 370 is configured to score each image. For example... Figure 25AAs shown, the scores for each captured image (e.g., four images) can be averaged by the control unit 370 to generate a final shape score for each aquatic plant culture 1 to 3. The shape score for each discrete image (i1.1, i1.2, i2.1, i2.2, etc.) can be expressed using the following formula:

[0261] Image shape fraction = [a S1 (X S1 )+a S2 (X S2 )+a S3 (X S3 )+…a Sn (X Sn )] / (X S1 +X S2 +X S3 +…X Sn )

[0262] in:

[0263] XS1…XSn = The count (X) of the defined shape (S1…Sn).

[0264] aS1…aSn = the shape factor (a) specified for each shape (S1…Sn).

[0265] Figure 25A The shape score for each image captured and the average shape score for the three cultures are shown, with each culture sampled twice and two images captured for each sample (four images in total). Figure 25A In the illustrated embodiment, culture 3 receives the lowest shape score. The low shape score of culture 3 originates from the large number of discrete aquatic plants 1210 present within the culture (see [reference]). Figure 25B The large number of discrete plants in culture 3 indicates that the culture is in a lag phase or a death phase. In contrast, culture 2 receives the highest shape fraction. Figure 25B As shown, culture 2 has the highest relative amounts of plants with shapes 1240 (parental aquatic plants with smaller, precocious offspring, connected to each other) and 1250 (parental aquatic plants with similarly sized, mature offspring, connected to each other). This indicates that culture 2 is in the exponential phase. Although Figure 25A The results are shown from cultures sampled twice, with two images for each sample, but cultures can be sampled multiple times and each sample can include multiple images.

[0266] It should be noted that a low shape fraction does not necessarily mean that the culture is dying, dead, or under stress. For example... Figure 24As shown, cultures in the lag phase do not receive abnormally high shape scores. Therefore, the control unit 370 can be configured to score each characteristic of the culture, then determine the culture's state and adjust growth conditions accordingly. The control unit 370 can be configured to score other characteristics (e.g., color, tissue, transparency, and size) of each aquatic plant culture in a manner similar to its shape scoring as described above. In some embodiments, the control unit 370 can score each characteristic of the aquatic plant culture and compare the scores with baseline or reference scores (e.g., scores obtained earlier) stored in database 382. Comparison with the baseline or reference scores allows the control unit 370 to determine the current state of the aquatic plant culture.

[0267] Control units (e.g., control unit 370) and / or servers (e.g., server 384) can be used to collect data (e.g., sensor data from sensor 372 or image data from sensor 374) for one or more bioreactors. This data can be monitored and / or processed (e.g., via image processing techniques discussed herein) to control the operation of one or more bioreactors. In some embodiments, the monitored and / or processed data can be used to adjust a distribution system for one or more aquatic plant cultures. The distribution system can be used to distribute one or more aquatic plant cultures to individuals worldwide (e.g., customers).

[0268] Figure 26 A schematic diagram of a distribution system 2600 for distributing aquatic organisms, such as a culture of aquatic plants, according to one embodiment is shown. The distribution system 2600 may include one or more source bioreactors 2602 and one or more point-of-use (POU) bioreactors 2604. The source bioreactor 2602 may include one or more components of the bioreactor systems 300, 600, and / or 650 discussed herein. In some embodiments, the source bioreactor 2602 may include all components of bioreactor systems 300 and / or 600 and 650. The POU bioreactor 2604 may also include one or more components of bioreactor systems 300, 600, and / or 650. In some embodiments, the POU bioreactor 2604 may include all components of bioreactor systems 300 and / or 600 and 650. Figure 26 As described, source bioreactor 2602 and POU bioreactor 2604 are connected to server 2606 via a network. Server 2606 may be the same as or similar to server 384, and the network may be the same as or similar to network 380. Furthermore, server 2606 may be configured to perform one or more operations of server 384.

[0269] Server 2606 can be configured to process information received by source bioreactor 2602 and POU bioreactor 2604 and use said information to monitor and adjust the distribution of aquatic plant cultures from source bioreactor 2602 to POU bioreactor 2604 (discussed in detail below). Server 2606 can also use information exchanged in the network to adjust various factors (e.g., growth and / or collection conditions at source bioreactor 2602) to optimize the growth of aquatic plant cultures in source bioreactor 2602 and / or POU bioreactor 2604. Additionally, server 2606 can use said information to optimize the distribution of cylinder 2700 (e.g., distribution time and distribution scheme). Details regarding the types of information that can be exchanged in server 2606 and the actions that server 2606 can take in response to receiving and processing said exchanged information are discussed in more detail below.

[0270] Figure 27 A cylinder 2700 is shown according to one embodiment for containing aquatic plant culture 2710. The cylinder 2700 can be used to transport the aquatic plant culture 2710 from one location to another (e.g., from source bioreactor 2602 to POU bioreactor 2604) and to protect the aquatic plant culture 2710 during transport. The cylinder 2700 may include a plurality of compartments 2702 coupled together via a cylinder body 2704. The cylinder 2700 may have a plurality of compartments 2702 and the compartments 2702 may be of any suitable size or shape. Each compartment 2702 may contain aquatic plant culture 2710 in a preservation medium 2712 or a fertilizer stock solution 2716. In some embodiments, more than one compartment 2702 in the cylinder 2700 may contain aquatic plant culture 2710 in a preservation medium 2712. In some embodiments, more than one compartment 2702 in the cylinder 2700 may contain a fertilizer reserve solution 2716 corresponding to the aquatic plant culture 2710 contained in the different compartments 2702 of the cylinder 2700. The opening 2714 of each compartment 2702 may be sealed by a seal 2706. In some embodiments, a single seal 2706 may seal all compartments 2702 of the cylinder 2700. In some embodiments, separate compartments 2702 may be sealed with separate seals 2706.

[0271] Figure 28 Show cylinder 2700 along Figure 27 The cross-section of line 28-28' in the diagram. (Example) Figure 28As shown, each 2702 includes a sidewall 2703 defining an internal volume 2708 for containing aquatic plant culture 2710 in storage medium 2712 or for containing fertilizer reserve solution 2716. In some embodiments, the sidewall 2703 may comprise an impermeable material (i.e., a material that does not allow air or water to pass through it). In some embodiments, the impermeable material may be a metal, such as, but not limited to, aluminum. In some embodiments, the impermeable material may be a food-grade plastic, such as, but not limited to, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene, or polycarbonate. In some embodiments, the sidewall 2703 may comprise an opaque material (e.g., aluminum or opaque plastic). In some embodiments, the sidewall 2703 may comprise a non-opaque material coated with an opaque coating (such as, but not limited to, paint or lamination). In some embodiments, the sidewall 2703 may comprise a high-strength material such that the compartment 2702 will maintain its shape during transport. For example, the high-strength material can resist deformation during transportation caused by the cylinder 2700 being dropped or heavy objects being placed on top of it. This deformation resistance protects the aquatic plant culture 2710 from the high pressure caused by the reduction in internal volume 2708 and reduces the likelihood of the sidewall 2703 being punctured during transportation.

[0272] In some embodiments, all or a portion of the sidewall 2703 may comprise a breathable material that allows gases (e.g., oxygen and carbon dioxide) to move between the aquatic plant culture 2710 and the environment surrounding the cylinder 2700. In some embodiments, only the portion of the sidewall 2703 defining the chamber 2702 containing the aquatic plant culture 2710 may be wholly or partially composed of a breathable material. In some embodiments, the breathable material may be silicone. In embodiments including breathable sidewall material, all or a portion of the sidewall 2703 may be coated with a material that allows gas movement and protects the cylinder 2700 from damage (e.g., abrasion, puncture, or impact). In some embodiments, the sidewall 2703 may include a structural layer coated with a breathable material (e.g., silicone) to allow gas movement between the aquatic plant culture 2710 and the environment surrounding the cylinder 2700. In these embodiments, the structural layer may comprise a porous material, such as, but not limited to, a porous material made of food-grade plastic. The structural layer protects the aquatic plant culture 2710, while the breathable material allows for gas transfer.

[0273] In some embodiments, all or a portion of the sidewall 2703 may comprise a non-opaque and breathable material. In some embodiments, only the portion of the sidewall 2703 defining the chamber 2702 containing the aquatic plant culture 2710 may be entirely or partially composed of a breathable and non-opaque material. In some embodiments, the breathable material may be non-opaque silicone. In embodiments including a non-opaque breathable sidewall material, all or a portion of the sidewall 2703 may be coated with a material that allows the transfer of gas and light and protects the chamber 2700 from damage (e.g., abrasion, puncture, or impact). In some embodiments, the sidewall 2703 may include a non-opaque structural layer coated with a non-opaque breathable material (e.g., silicone) to allow gas transfer between the aquatic plant culture 2710 and the environment surrounding the chamber 2700. In these embodiments, the structural layer may comprise a porous material, such as, but not limited to, a porous material made of food-grade plastic. The structural material protects the aquatic plant culture 2710, while the breathable material allows gas transfer.

[0274] In some embodiments, the sidewall 2703 and the cylinder 2704 are a single, integral part. In other words, the sidewall 2703 may be integrally formed with the cylinder 2704 during manufacturing. In some embodiments, the sidewall 2703 and the cylinder 2704 may be separate parts attached using, for example, adhesives or welding. In some embodiments, the sidewall 2703 and the cylinder 2704 may be formed of the same material. In some embodiments, the sidewall 2703 and the cylinder 2704 may be formed of different materials. In some embodiments, all or part of the outer surface of the cylinder 2700 may be coated with an antimicrobial coating.

[0275] In some embodiments, seal 2706 may comprise an impermeable material, such as, but not limited to, aluminum foil (with or without a polymer membrane layer), rubber, polyethylene, polystyrene, polyurethane, or polycarbonate. In some embodiments, seal 2706 may be made of the same material as the shell 2704 and / or compartment 2702. Seal 2706 may be sealed together with the top wall 2705 of the shell 2704 to prevent one or more of light, air, and liquid from entering the compartment 2702 through the opening 2714. In some embodiments, seal 2706 may be sealed together with the top wall 2705 using, for example, adhesives, welding, or heat sealing.

[0276] In some embodiments, all or a portion of the seal 2706 may comprise a non-opaque and / or breathable material that allows the transfer of gases (e.g., oxygen and carbon dioxide) between the aquatic plant culture 2710 and the environment surrounding the cylinder 2700. In some embodiments, the seal 2706 may be made of silicone. In embodiments including a breathable seal 2706, all or a portion of the wall of the seal 2706 may be coated with a material that allows gas transfer and protects the seal 2706 from damage (e.g., abrasions, punctures, or impacts).

[0277] The aquatic plant culture 2710 contained within the chamber may include any species of aquatic plants, including but not limited to those from the genera *Lemna minor*, *Lemna minor*, *Lemna spp.*, *Lemna spp.*, and *Lemna minor*. The aquatic plant culture 2710 may be sealed within the chamber 2702 at a predetermined life stage. The predetermined life stage may be as described below. Figure 29 The discussion covers the life stages of summer, spring, autumn, or winter.

[0278] The preservation medium 2712 may be a liquid or a gel. In some embodiments, the gel may be an agar-based gel. In some embodiments, the preservation medium 2712 may include dissolved carbon. The dissolved carbon may be, but is not limited to, sugars such as glucose, sucrose, fructose, and combinations thereof. In these embodiments, the dissolved carbon in the preservation medium 2712 provides nutrients to the aquatic plant culture 2710 during distribution. When contained in chamber 2702, the aquatic plant culture 2710 consumes the dissolved carbon to generate the energy required to survive in chamber 2700 during distribution. In embodiments where the sidewalls 2703 surrounding the aquatic plant culture 2710 are made of an impermeable and / or opaque material, the aquatic plant culture 2710 will require dissolved carbon to survive because the material of the sidewalls 2703 will prevent photosynthesis (the natural energy-generating process of the aquatic plant culture).

[0279] The aquatic plant culture 2710 will consume oxygen and produce carbon dioxide inside the chamber 2702, while converting dissolved carbon in the storage medium 2712 into energy. Compared to a chamber 2702 made solely of impermeable material, an aquatic plant culture contained in a chamber 2702, which is wholly or partially made of breathable material, allows the aquatic plant culture to survive longer in the chamber 2700. The breathable material allows carbon dioxide inside the chamber 2702 to be replaced by oxygen from the surrounding environment, thereby preventing anaerobic conditions harmful to the aquatic plant culture within the chamber 2702.

[0280] In some embodiments, the preservation medium 2712 may not include dissolved carbon. In said embodiments, all or part of the sidewall 2703 surrounding the aquatic plant culture 2710 may be made of a non-opaque and breathable material. In said embodiments, the non-opaque breathable material will allow photosynthesis to occur by allowing the aquatic plant culture 2710 to receive light and carbon dioxide from the environment surrounding the container 2700. The breathable material will also allow oxygen generated during photosynthesis to escape from the container 2700. Allowing photosynthesis to occur while the aquatic plant culture 2710 is within the container 2700 allows the aquatic plant culture 2710 to mature slowly during its distribution in the container 2700, rather than simply providing nutrients (i.e., dissolved carbon) to keep it alive. Slow maturation of the aquatic plant culture 2710 during its distribution can promote rapid recovery and growth when the aquatic plant culture 2710 is received by a bioreactor (e.g., POU bioreactor 2604). In some embodiments, the aquatic plant culture 2710 may slowly mature within the chamber 2702 of the cylinder 2700 for 2-3 weeks. However, this time may be extended depending on the temperature. Lowering the temperature of the aquatic plant culture will reduce its maturation rate, thus reducing the energy required for survival. In some embodiments, the preservation medium 2712 may include dissolved carbon, and all or part of the sidewalls 2703 surrounding the aquatic plant culture 2710 may be made of a non-opaque and breathable material.

[0281] In some embodiments, container 2700 can be used for the long-term storage of aquatic plant cultures. For example, aquatic plant cultures in the middle of their winter period can be stored at low temperatures (e.g., 2°C-8°C) for at least 3 months. This low temperature promotes long-term storage by reducing the maturation and development of the aquatic plant cultures, thereby reducing the energy required for survival. In other words, the low temperature allows the aquatic plant cultures to remain in a dormant winter phase for an extended period. A container made of the impermeable, breathable, and / or non-opaque materials discussed above regarding container 2702 can be used to contain aquatic plant cultures for an extended period. And during long-term storage, the aquatic plant cultures can survive by converting dissolved carbon in the storage medium into energy and / or via photosynthesis. In some embodiments, the long-term storage of aquatic plant cultures serves as a biobank of viable aquatic plant cultures that can be introduced into bioreactors for maturation, growth, and collection.

[0282] The fertilizer stock solution 2716 contained in one or more chambers 2702 may include one or more macro- or micro-elements, including but not limited to nitrogen, phosphorus, iron, potassium, sulfur, calcium, magnesium, zinc, compounds containing at least one of these elements, and combinations thereof. The fertilizer stock solution 2716 may be packaged in any suitable form in the chamber 2702. In some embodiments, the fertilizer stock solution 2716 may be a liquid or semi-solid. In some embodiments, the fertilizer stock solution 2716 may be a solid, such as, but not limited to, powder or granular solid. In some embodiments, the fertilizer stock solution 2716 may be a specific mixture of fertilizer elements designed for a specific species of aquatic plant culture 2710. In some embodiments, the fertilizer stock solution 2716 may be a tested organic fertilizer solution. In some embodiments, different chambers 2702 of cylinder 2700 contain different types of fertilizer stock solutions 2716, which are extracted and utilized by POU bioreactor 2604 according to a scheme for optimizing growth conditions for aquatic plant culture 2710. The fertilizer stock solution protocol may be a specification relating to the type and quantity of fertilizer stock solution 2716 and the timing of the dosage of fertilizer stock solution 2716 within the POU bioreactor 2604. In some embodiments, the protocol may include an identification label 2720 associated with the cartridge 2700 (see [link]). Figure 27 The information is in the cylinder identification information on the cylinder.

[0283] In some embodiments, cylinder 2700 may comprise only a fertilizer reserve solution 2716, which can be transferred to a fertilizer reserve container associated with the bioreactor system. In these embodiments, the fertilizer medium may be prepared from the fertilizer reserve solution container within a system (e.g., by mixing the components of the fertilizer medium) and transferred to a location within the bioreactor system (e.g., incubation-growth chamber 321). A control unit associated with the bioreactor system (e.g., control unit 2612 or control unit 2614) controls the preparation and transfer of the fertilizer medium.

[0284] In some embodiments, one or more chambers 2702 may contain other substances, including but not limited to cleaning agents and additives. The cleaning agent may be provided for cleaning the POU bioreactor 2604. In some embodiments, chamber 2700 may contain only the cleaning agent for cleaning the POU bioreactor 2604. Instructions for the cleaning process and use of the cleaning agent may be provided on identification label 2720 and executed by control unit 2614. Instructions relating to the additives (e.g., dosage and timing) may also be provided on identification label 2720 and executed by control unit 2614.

[0285] The cylinder 2700 may include one or more identification tags 2720, on which cylinder identification information is located. The identification tag 2720 may be, but is not limited to, a barcode, a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip, and a quick response (QR) code. The identification tag 2720 may be located anywhere on the cylinder 2700. In some embodiments, the identification tag 2720 may be located on the outer or inner surface of the sidewall 2703. In some embodiments, the identification tag 2720 may be located on the cylinder body 2704 or the seal 2706. The identification tag 2720 may include coded cylinder identification information associated with the cylinder 2700. In some embodiments, the identification tag 2720 may additionally or alternatively include non-coded information, such as a date or descriptive symbol. In some embodiments, the identification tag 2720 may not be located on the cylinder 2700, but may be provided independently (e.g., on a receipt or information booklet distributed along with the cylinder 2700).

[0286] The identification tag 2720 may include cylinder identification information (coded or uncoded) relating to one or more of the following aspects of cylinder 2700: (i) the contents of one or more sealed compartments 2702 (e.g., whether compartment 2702 contains aquatic plant culture 2710 or fertilizer reserve solution 2716), (ii) the type (e.g., species) of aquatic plant culture 2710 contained in at least one sealed compartment 2702, (iii) the type of fertilizer reserve solution 2716 contained in at least one sealed compartment 2702, and (iv) the conditions under which compartment 2702 is used for... The date of sealing, (v) the type of storage medium 2712 contained in at least one sealed chamber 2702, (vi) the optimal growth conditions for the type of aquatic plant culture 2710 contained in at least one sealed chamber 2702, (vii) the location where the chamber 2702 is sealed (e.g., the source bioreactor 2602 that produces the aquatic plant culture), (viii) the number of SKUs (stock units), and (ix) the fertilizer stock solution scheme for the aquatic plant culture 2710 contained in at least one sealed chamber 2702.

[0287] In some embodiments, the identification tag 2720 includes coded information that includes identification information relating to the origin of the cartridge 2700. This identification information can be used to indicate whether the cartridge 2700 is a valid cartridge sent from an approved entity. In other words, the identification information can be used to prevent the use of counterfeit cartridges that could be harmful to the POU bioreactor 2604. A cartridge lacking appropriate identification information may indicate that it is a counterfeit cartridge manufactured or distributed by an unapproved entity, which may contain diseased aquatic plant cultures and / or be made of unacceptable materials (e.g., hazardous plastics). Diseased aquatic plant cultures can contaminate the entire POU bioreactor 2604 and require costly cleaning and sterilization before the POU bioreactor 2604 can be reused. Furthermore, cartridges 2700 made of unacceptable materials can lead to the introduction of contaminated aquatic plant cultures into the POU bioreactor 2604, which will also require costly cleaning and sterilization before the POU bioreactor 2604 can be reused. If the cylinder 2700 lacks appropriate identification information, the control unit 2614 of the POU bioreactor 2604 may discard (or discard) the cylinder 2700.

[0288] Each entry of the cylinder identification information located on the identification tag 2720 can be utilized by at least one control unit 2614 of the POU bioreactor 2604 and server 2606 within the distribution system 2600. The control unit 2614 can be configured to control the operation of the POU bioreactor 2604 based on the cylinder identification information. The server 2606 can be configured to use the cylinder identification information to track and adjust the distribution of cylinders 2700 and / or control the operation of the POU bioreactor 2604.

[0289] like Figure 27 and 28 As shown, the cylinder 2700 may include one or more cylinder sensors 2722. The cylinder sensors 2722 can detect physical or chemical conditions relating to the cylinder 2700 and / or the environment surrounding the cylinder 2700. In some embodiments, one or more cylinder sensors 2722 are located within one or more compartments 2702 (e.g., in a...). Figure 28 (The inner surface of the sidewall 2703 shown) is used to detect conditions within the chamber 2702. In some embodiments, one or more cylinder sensors 2722 may be located on the outer surface of the cylinder 2700. For example, on the outer surface of the sidewall 2703 (see example...) Figure 27 Or on the seal 2706. The cylinder sensor 2722 may be an optical or electrical sensor. The cylinder sensor 2722 may be, but is not limited to, a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, an oxygen sensor, a light sensor, and a pH sensor. The cylinder sensor 2722 may visually or electronically indicate physical or chemical conditions that may be harmful to the aquatic plant culture 2710 contained in the cylinder 2700.

[0290] For example, a temperature sensor can indicate whether a critical maximum or minimum temperature has been reached during the distribution of cylinder 2700. The critical maximum temperature may be greater than or equal to 28°C. The critical minimum temperature may be less than or equal to 2°C. The temperature sensor can indicate whether the maximum or minimum critical temperature has been reached, for example, by changing color or by storing its indication electronically. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor can indicate whether the maximum or minimum temperature has been reached and sustained for a certain amount of time. As another example, an oxygen sensor located in chamber 2702 can indicate an increase in oxygen in chamber 2702 during distribution, thus indicating that the seals for chamber 2702 have been damaged. The oxygen sensor can indicate changes in oxygen content optically or electronically. The electrical or optical signal from cylinder sensor 2722 can be read by reader 2618 located in the input unit of POU bioreactor 2604. If cylinder sensor 2722 indicates harmful conditions, then control unit 2614 of POU bioreactor 2604 can discard (or remove) cylinder 2700.

[0291] In some implementations, the cylinder sensor 2722 may be configured to store changes in conditions during the distribution of the cylinder 2700. For example, the temperature cylinder sensor 2722 may log the temperature experienced by the cylinder 2700 during the distribution. Thus, the cylinder sensor 2722 may generate a log of the conditions experienced during the distribution journey of the cylinder.

[0292] Aquatic plant cultures such as those in the genera *Lemna minor*, *Lemna spp.*, *Lemna spp.*, *Lemna spp.*, and *Lemna spp.* have natural life cycles, which consist of four natural life stages. Figure 29 The natural life stages described are the summer life stage, the autumn life stage, the winter life stage, and the spring life stage. In reality, aquatic plant cultures can traverse these four life stages throughout the year. Aquatic plant cultures exhibit specific behaviors during each life stage. Furthermore, different species of aquatic plant cultures can behave differently from other species.

[0293] In the "summer life phase" or "asexual reproduction phase," the aquatic plants in an aquatic plant culture are predominantly frond plants. Fronds are foliate plants that float on the surface of a body of water (such as a pond or lake). An aquatic plant culture can be considered to be in the summer life phase when the rate of new frond progeny plants is approximately equal to the rate of death of the parent frond plants (e.g., when the aquatic plant culture has reached its maximum density within the system). The summer life phase is the fully developed stage of the aquatic plant culture. In this phase, the aquatic plant culture can grow at a relatively constant rate and contains abundant nutrients, such as protein. The fronds float on the surface of the water, allowing them to absorb large amounts of sunlight for photosynthesis. During the summer life phase, the large volume of floating fronds allows the aquatic plant culture to dominate other organisms in the water by depriving them of the light and oxygen necessary for growth. The duration of the summer life phase will depend on the environment surrounding the aquatic plant culture (e.g., ecological conduction, such as the amount of sunlight, dissolved nutrients, and water temperature).

[0294] When ecological conditions permit, the aquatic plant culture will transition from the summer life stage to the "autumn life stage." During the autumn life stage, the thallus can transform into "scaly buds." Scaly buds are a dormant form of the aquatic plant and may be called "winter buds," "overwintering buds," or "true roots." The culture transforms from a thallus to a scaly bud plant when the parent thallus receives natural signals based on ecological conditions to produce scaly buds as its next generation of progeny. During the autumn stage, scaly bud progeny plants are produced and may sink, while the parent thallus will float until it dies. Scaly bud plants differ from thallus plants in various ways. For example, the protein in the thallus is replaced by starch in the scaly buds. This starch provides energy storage, which will allow the scaly buds to survive, transform back into thallus, and float when environmental conditions improve. The aquatic plant culture can be considered to be in the autumn life stage when the rate of production of new thallus progeny plants is less than the rate of production of scaly bud progeny plants. The duration of the autumn life stage will depend on the environment surrounding the aquatic plant culture (e.g., ecological conduction, such as the amount of sunlight, dissolved nutrients, and water temperature). Additionally, for some species and / or geographical regions of the aquatic plant culture, the summer thallus will not transform into sinking scaly buds, but rather into scaly buds that will remain afloat in a form with extremely slow growth.

[0295] During the "winter life stage," almost all plants within an aquatic plant culture remain dormant as teguments, typically at the bottom of the water body. The duration of the winter life stage depends on the environment surrounding the aquatic plant culture (e.g., ecological conduction, such as the amount of sunlight and water temperature). Some aquatic plant cultures may not transition from tegumentary dormancy and will continue to produce new progeny thalli during the winter life stage (however at a very low rate).

[0296] When ecological conditions permit (e.g., when days become longer (more sunlight) and temperatures rise), dormant lepidopterans will begin to transform into thallophytes and float back to the surface of the water body. This transformation from lepidopterans to thallophytes is known as the "early spring life phase." During the "spring life phase," there is significant growth as the thallophytes begin to produce new progeny thallophytes at an extremely high rate. An aquatic plant culture can be considered to be in the spring life phase when the rate of new thallophyte production exceeds the mortality rate of the parent thallophytes. For example, the spring growth rate of an aquatic plant culture can cause its biomass to double every 48 hours. This high rate of new thallophyte production continues until the aquatic plant culture reaches the summer life phase. The duration of the spring life phase will depend on the environment surrounding the aquatic plant culture (e.g., ecological conduction, such as the amount of sunlight, dissolved nutrients, and water temperature).

[0297] In practice, aquatic plant cultures typically repeat this four-stage life cycle annually. The transitions between different life stages can be specified by the ecological conditions surrounding the aquatic plant culture (e.g., amount of sunlight, dissolved molecules, and temperature). Different species of aquatic plants in different geographical locations may have different life cycle patterns and / or life stage durations. Furthermore, the behavior of aquatic plant cultures can be highly dependent on the geographical region and climatic conditions in which they are grown. For example, in areas where there are no extremely cold winters, the buds may not sink to the bottom of the water body, and the spring life stage may be longer.

[0298] In bioreactors, the ecological conditions and therefore life stages of aquatic plant cultures can be controlled by biomimicking the natural ecological conditions for each life stage of the aquatic plant culture. For example, control units (e.g. Figure 3The control unit 370 can control one or more ecological conditions, thus controlling the life stage of the aquatic plant culture. These ecological conditions may include, but are not limited to, physical conditions (such as light and temperature levels and timing, water flow rate, air flow and pressure, and biodynamic concentrations) and chemical conditions of the growth substrate (such as potential hydrogen, ion concentration, fertilizer compounds, dissolved CO2, and air composition). Therefore, the bioreactor can be used to cultivate aquatic plant cultures at a specific and predetermined life stage. In some embodiments, the bioreactor can be used to cultivate aquatic plant cultures through different subsequent life stages or the entire life cycle. Furthermore, the bioreactor can be used to collect aquatic plant cultures at a specific and predetermined life stage. It should be noted that the natural ecological conditions for a given species may differ from those for other species. In some embodiments, the control unit of the bioreactor can be configured to adjust the growth conditions within the bioreactor based on the species of the aquatic plant culture being grown in the bioreactor.

[0299] Return now Figure 26 The distribution system 2600 for distributing aquatic plant cultures is described herein. The source bioreactor 2602 and, more specifically, the control unit 2612 of the source bioreactor 2602, are configured to grow a large quantity of aquatic plant cultures over an extended period (e.g., several years). The source bioreactor 2602 is configured to allow the aquatic plant cultures to traverse each life stage (i.e., summer, autumn, winter, and spring) by controlling the ecological conditions of the aquatic plant cultures grown within the source bioreactor 102. The control unit 2612 may be the same as or similar to the control unit 370 described above. Furthermore, the control unit 2612 may be configured to perform one or more operations of the control unit 370 described above. The control unit 2612 may be configured to send information related to the operation of the source bioreactor 2602 to a server 2606. Information relating to the operation of the source bioreactor 2602 may include, but is not limited to, the collection scheme, the species of aquatic plant culture that is grown from the source bioreactor 2602, the operating status of the source bioreactor (e.g., fully operational or unusable), and the volume of aquatic plants that can be collected.

[0300] In contrast to the source bioreactor 2602, the POU bioreactor 2604, and specifically its control unit 2614, can be configured to grow relatively small batches of aquatic plant cultures at specific life stages or specific groups of life stages. For example, the POU bioreactor 2604 can be configured to continuously mimic spring conditions for a given aquatic plant culture to continuously grow the culture at the spring life stage. The control unit 2614 can be the same as or similar to the control unit 370 discussed above. Furthermore, the control unit 2614 can be configured to perform one or more of the operations of the control unit 370 discussed above. The POU bioreactor 2604 can be designed for commercial or domestic use. For example, the POU bioreactor 2604 can be designed for use in a kitchen or restaurant in a home. As another example, the POU bioreactor 2604 can be designed as a kiosk or self-service unit for use in restaurants, office buildings, or public places (e.g., shopping malls or shopping centers). In some embodiments, the POU bioreactor 2604 can grow aquatic plant cultures through all four life stages.

[0301] In some embodiments, when the nutrient content of the aquatic plants is high, the POU bioreactor 2604 continuously outputs (via, for example, output unit 360) aquatic plants in their spring life stage. Since the spring life stage of the aquatic plant culture may not continue indefinitely and because the aquatic plants will be collected and consumed at the POU bioreactor 2604, new batches of aquatic plant culture (e.g., sealed in chamber 2702 of cylinder 2700) need to be supplied to the POU bioreactor 2604 periodically to ensure that the POU bioreactor 2604 has aquatic plants with high nutrient content ready for collection. In some embodiments, new aquatic plant culture may be supplied to the POU bioreactor 2604 every two weeks or monthly.

[0302] A server 2606, connected to source bioreactor 2602 and POU bioreactor 2604, facilitates the continuous supply of new batches of aquatic plant cultures from source bioreactor 2602 to POU bioreactor 2604. Server 2606 can use information collected from source bioreactor 2602 and POU bioreactor 2604 to monitor the operation of the bioreactors. Server 2606 can also use information located on an identification tag 2720 associated with container 2700 to track the distribution of container 2700 containing aquatic plant cultures 2710 sealed in container 2702. Server 2606 can use information collected from source bioreactor 2602, POU bioreactor 2604, and information on the identification tag 2720 associated with container 2700 to track the distribution of container 2700 and adjust one or more operations within the distribution system 2600 (e.g., shipment date, growth conditions in source bioreactor 2602, collection date / time for source bioreactor 2602, etc.) in detail below. Server 2606 can track the distribution of cylinders 2700 and regulate one or more operations within the distribution system 2600 to ensure that each POU bioreactor 2604 continuously receives new and viable batches of aquatic plant cultures sealed in cylinders 2700 in a timely and efficient manner.

[0303] A continuous and reliable supply of viable aquatic plant cultures within the distribution system 2600 can be achieved by shifting the life cycles of aquatic plant cultures grown in different source bioreactors 2602. Cycle setting can be performed by stimulating (or initiating) the development of plants in a selected life stage to the next cycle stage. For example, stimulating summer or spring life stage algae to transition to winter life stage plants, or stimulating winter life stage plants to transition to early spring life stage plants. The entire life cycle duration can be one year, less than one year, or longer. Furthermore, the shift between source bioreactors 2602 can depend on the duration of the entire application's life cycle. These life cycles can be shifted relative to each other such that at any given time, aquatic plant cultures in a specific life stage are available for collection. For example, if the entire life cycle duration is one year and the distribution system 2600 contains four source bioreactors 2602, then the life cycles of aquatic plant cultures grown in the growth units 330 of the different source bioreactors 2602 can be shifted relative to each other by approximately three months.

[0304] Table 1 illustrates the corresponding life stages of aquatic plant cultures in each of the four source bioreactors 2602 within the distribution system. For simplicity, an exemplary period for each life stage in Table 1 is three months. However, the period may be shorter or longer, depending on the ecological conditions in each source bioreactor 2602 within a given distribution system and / or the number of source bioreactors 2602. Furthermore, each life stage does not necessarily last the same amount of time. For example, the winter phase of each source bioreactor 2602 may be shortened (e.g., via control unit 370 that alters the ecological / growth conditions within each source bioreactor 2602) to approximately 2-3 weeks, while other life stages may be longer. This will result in more aquatic plants being in the spring phase. And in embodiments where it may be necessary to collect and package aquatic plant cultures in the spring phase, this will result in more aquatic plants being prepared for collection at a given time.

[0305] summer autumn winter spring Source Bioreactor #1 January - March April - June July-September October - December Source Bioreactor #2 April - June July-September October - December January - March Source Bioreactor #3 July-September October - December January - March April - June Source Bioreactor #4 October - December January - March April - June July-September

[0306] Table 1: Exemplary life stages of aquatic plant cultures in bioreactors from different sources. Spring life stage algae can be collected and packaged from bioreactor 1 during October–December; from bioreactor 2 during January–March; from bioreactor 3 during April–June; and from bioreactor 4 during July–September.

[0307] As shown in Table 1, regardless of the month of the year, aquatic plant cultures at each life stage can be collected from one of the four source bioreactors 2602. For example, if it is necessary to collect and package aquatic plant cultures in the spring life stage, then source bioreactor #1 can be used for collection from October to December, source bioreactor #2 can be used for collection from January to March, source bioreactor #3 can be used for collection from April to June, and source bioreactor #4 can be used for collection from July to September.

[0308] The offset of source bioreactor 2602 and the control of life stages in each bioreactor facilitate the planning and implementation of the distribution of aquatic plant cultures to various locations (e.g., each POU bioreactor 2604). In some embodiments, server 2606 may receive information relating to the current life stage of the aquatic plant cultures in each source bioreactor 2602. Server 2606 may use this information to facilitate the efficient distribution of aquatic plant cultures sealed in tube 2700.

[0309] While multiple source bioreactors 2602 have been described as having shifted growth stages of aquatic plant cultures, a single source bioreactor 2602 may include multiple growth units (e.g., growth units 330) for growing aquatic plant cultures with shifted life stages. For example, a source bioreactor 2602 may include four growth units 330, wherein the aquatic plant cultures have shifted life stages as described in Table 1. In the described embodiment, a control unit 2612 may control the ecological conditions in each growth unit 330 to control the life stage of the aquatic plant culture in each growth unit 330. Additionally, while four source bioreactors 2602 have been described, a distribution system 2600 may include multiple source bioreactors 2602 (with multiple growth units 330) for growing aquatic plant cultures with consistent or shifted life stages. As a non-limiting example, a distribution system 2600 may include 12 source bioreactors 2602, each growing aquatic plant cultures at a life stage shifted by one month relative to the other bioreactors (i.e., the life stages of the 12 aquatic plant cultures are shifted sequentially by one month). Server 2606 can track the life stages of aquatic plants in each source bioreactor 2602 and / or growth unit 330 and can adjust the life stages accordingly.

[0310] In some embodiments, aquatic plant cultures can be grown in the source bioreactors 2602 within the distribution system 2600 throughout their complete life cycle, during which each culture has an offset cycle start time. In some embodiments, the entire life cycle duration of the aquatic plant culture may be one year, less than one year, or longer. In some embodiments, the life cycles of different aquatic plant cultures within the distribution system 2600 can be offset by starting specific life cycles at different times. For example, a cycle start step can be performed by stimulating summer or spring life stage algae to transition to winter life stage, or by stimulating winter life stage plants to transition to spring life stage plants. Offsetting the start time between source bioreactors 2602 can depend on the duration of the entire application's life cycle to ensure that at any given time, one or more source bioreactors 2602 produce aquatic plants suitable for collection and packaging. Cycle start can be performed under the control of server 2606 and / or control unit 2612.

[0311] As a non-limiting example, the distribution system 2600 may include 12 source bioreactors 2602, and the initiation steps in each source bioreactor 2602 may be performed at subsequent time intervals of one month. If the entire life cycle of the application lasts for one year, and each month (i.e., January to December) requires the collection and packaging of early spring life-stage aquatic plants, then the initiation steps can be performed by stimulating the winter life-stage plants to transform into early spring life-stage algae at specific times within each source bioreactor 2602, spaced one month apart. For example, the first source bioreactor 2602 may start in January, the second source bioreactor 2602 may start in February, the third source bioreactor may start in March, and so on. Thus, in the following January, early spring life-stage algae plants may be collected from the first source bioreactor 2602, in the following February, early spring life-stage algae plants may be collected from the second source bioreactor, and so on.

[0312] When the aquatic plant culture reaches a predetermined life stage in the source bioreactor 2602, it can be collected, divided into portions, and packaged for distribution. The output unit (e.g., output unit 360) of the source bioreactor 2602 can output a certain amount of aquatic plant culture for packaging into a shipping container (e.g., chamber 2702 of cylinder 2700). In some embodiments, the output unit of the source bioreactor 2602 may include a sterilization unit (e.g., sterilization unit 5600 or 5700).

[0313] The source bioreactor 2602 can be configured to collect aquatic plant cultures at any life stage and can collect algae or scaly plants. In some embodiments, such as Figure 26 As shown, the source bioreactor 2602 may include a marking unit 2630 for placing an identification tag 2720 and / or a cylinder sensor 2722 on the cylinder 2700. In some embodiments, the marking unit 2630 may be a separate unit communicated with one or more source bioreactors 2602. The control unit 2612 may be configured to control the marking unit 2630 or communicate with a control unit of the marking unit 2630. The control unit 2612 may be configured to send cylinder identification information located on the identification tag 2720 to a server 2606 after the cylinder 2700 has been marked.

[0314] The predetermined life stage at which the aquatic plant culture is collected and packaged may be based at least on the need for the aquatic plant culture and the distribution time required to send the container 2700 containing the collected aquatic plant culture to a certain location. In some embodiments, the determination of which life stage the aquatic plant culture should be collected is based on information collected by server 2606. In some embodiments, server 2606 may control or direct the collection of aquatic plant cultures at a predetermined life stage from one or more source bioreactors 2602 and / or growth units 330.

[0315] As an exemplary embodiment, the aquatic plant culture can be collected during the spring life stage and packaged into chamber 2702. When packaged during the spring life stage, the aquatic plant culture can be packaged into chamber 2702, which is designed to preserve aquatic plant cultures in the spring life stage and at the same stage as when packaged into chamber 2702. In other words, while in chamber 2702, the spring life stage is promptly locked in, and the characteristics of the aquatic plant culture 2710 are not altered. Therefore, when the aquatic plant culture is received by POU bioreactor 2604, it will behave as if it never left the source bioreactor 2602. In some embodiments, the aquatic plant culture can be packaged into chamber 2702 designed to promote the slow maturation of aquatic plant cultures in the spring life stage during distribution.

[0316] Upon receipt by POU bioreactor 2604, the aquatic plant culture will resume (or continue) its spring life stage in the growth unit (e.g., growth unit 330) of POU bioreactor 2604. Thus, the nutrient-dense algal plant will grow rapidly and become available for collection and / or consumption at POU bioreactor 2604. In some embodiments, the aquatic plant culture in its spring life stage can be properly preserved (or allowed to mature slowly) in preservation medium 2712 for 1-2 weeks. However, it can be longer. The ability of preservation medium 2712 to preserve the aquatic plant culture (or promote slow maturation) depends on the type and amount of preservation medium packaged in compartment 2702.

[0317] As another exemplary embodiment, aquatic plant cultures can be collected and packaged in chamber 2702 during their winter life phase. In some embodiments, when packaged during the winter life phase, the aquatic plant cultures can be packaged in chamber 2702 designed to preserve aquatic plant cultures in their winter life phase. In some embodiments, the aquatic plant cultures can be packaged in chamber 2702 designed to promote the slow maturation of the aquatic plant cultures. Thus, when the aquatic plant cultures are received by POU bioreactor 2604, they will resume (or continue) their winter life phase in POU bioreactor 2604 and transition to the spring life phase at an appropriate time (e.g., under the control of control unit 2614). In some embodiments, aquatic plant cultures in their winter life phase can be properly preserved (or allowed to mature slowly) in preservation medium 2712 for 1-3 weeks. Packaged aquatic plant cultures in their winter life phase can survive longer than cultures in their spring life phase because the plant cultures are in a natural dormant life phase. During the winter life stage, the aquatic plant culture consumes less nutrients and is therefore able to survive for a longer period in the preservation medium compared to aquatic plant cultures in the spring life stage. The preservation or slow maturation of aquatic plant cultures in the winter stage can last longer than 1-3 weeks. The ability of preservation medium 2712 to preserve aquatic plant cultures (or promote slow maturation) depends on the type and amount of preservation medium packaged in compartment 2702.

[0318] In some implementations, aquatic plant cultures can be collected and packaged at specific times during a predetermined life stage. For example, aquatic plant cultures can be collected and packaged during the first two weeks of their spring life stage. Aquatic plant cultures collected and packaged at this time will behave as if they had just entered their spring life stage when introduced into the POU bioreactor 2604. This allows them to rapidly produce nutrient-dense algal plants during their spring life stage, which can be quickly used for collection and / or consumption at the POU bioreactor 2604. As another example, aquatic plant cultures can be collected and packaged during their winter life stage. Aquatic plant cultures collected and packaged at this time may take some time to transition to the spring life stage in the POU bioreactor 2604 (compared to cultures collected during the spring life stage), but they can survive longer in the preservation medium 2712. This allows the cultures to have a longer shelf life and therefore storage time, and enables their distribution over a longer distance. Although the specific collection and packaging times have been discussed above, aquatic plant cultures grown within source bioreactor 2602 can be collected at any time, depending on one or more factors. Server 2606 can control, monitor, and regulate the collection and packaging times of aquatic plant cultures grown within source bioreactor 2602 in distribution system 2600 based on information received from source bioreactor 2602 and POU bioreactor 2604.

[0319] In some implementations, only “seasonal” aquatic plant cultures may be collected and packaged for distribution. “Seasonal” aquatic plant cultures mean cultures of aquatic plants that have matured throughout their entire life cycle in the bioreactor (i.e., progressing through at least one spring life stage, at least one summer life stage, at least one autumn life stage, and at least one winter life stage). For example, if source bioreactor 2602 begins growing an aquatic plant culture in its spring life stage on January 1, 2014, and it takes one year for the aquatic plant culture to progress through all four life stages, then the aquatic plant culture will be “seasonal” from January 1, 2015. Therefore, the seasonal aquatic plant culture will initially be available for collection on January 1, 2015. As another example, if source bioreactor 102 begins growing an aquatic plant culture in its winter life stage on April 1, 2014, and it takes one year for the aquatic plant culture to progress through all four life stages, then the aquatic plant culture will be “seasonal” from April 1, 2015. If the culture that produces the detached plant is considered seasonal, then the detached plant within the aquatic plant culture is also considered seasonal. For example, if a new detached aquatic plant develops within an aquatic plant culture that has grown for three years (e.g., through three spring, summer, fall, and winter phases), then the new detached aquatic plant is considered “seasonal” because it was produced by a “seasonal” aquatic plant culture.

[0320] Collecting seasonal aquatic plant cultures helps ensure quality control. The viability and sustainability of aquatic plant cultures are higher for seasonal aquatic plant cultures because they have demonstrated their ability to remain viable throughout at least one life cycle. Furthermore, seasonal aquatic plant cultures can be optimized by controlling the growth conditions of the aquatic plant cultures within the source bioreactor 2602 during their first life cycle (e.g., for shipment or growth in the POU bioreactor 2604). Additionally, it is unlikely that any contamination and / or unhealthy plants will be present in the seasonal aquatic plant cultures. Contamination can be identified and removed from the cultures during their first life cycle, and unhealthy plants can be cared for to become healthy or removed from the cultures during their first life cycle (e.g., under the control of the control unit 2612). Moreover, collecting seasonal aquatic plant cultures helps synchronize the shift of the bioreactor to ensure a continuous and reliable supply of viable aquatic plant cultures to be packaged.

[0321] When a portion of the aquatic plant culture is collected and packaged in compartment 2702 of cylinder 2700, one or more fertilizer stock solutions 2716 may be packaged in other compartments 2702 of cylinder 2700. The type of fertilizer stock solution 2716 may be selected based on the species of the aquatic plant culture 2710. In some embodiments, different types of fertilizer stock solutions 2716 may be packaged in different compartments 2702 of cylinder 2700. Information relating to the type and amount of fertilizer stock solutions 2716 packaged in one or more compartments 2702 may be included in information located on an identification tag 2720 associated with cylinder 2700. The control unit 2614 of POU bioreactor 2604 may use this information to appropriately fertilize the aquatic plant culture when it is received by POU bioreactor 2604.

[0322] The identification label 2720 may also include information relating to the type and / or quantity of the preservation medium 2712 packaged together with the aquatic plant culture 2710 within the chamber 2702. In some embodiments, multiple chambers 2702 of the cylinder 2700 may contain individual aquatic plant cultures 2710, which may be of the same or different species. Once the appropriate aquatic plant culture 2710, preservation medium 2712, and fertilizer stock solution 2716 are packaged within the cylinder 2700, the cylinder 2700 may be marked with the identification label 2720.

[0323] like Figure 26 As depicted, once the appropriate aquatic plant culture 2710, preservation medium 2712, and fertilizer stock solution 2716 are packaged in a cartridge 2700 and the cartridge 2700 is marked with an identification tag 2720, the cartridge 2700 can be distributed to a specific location and / or a specific POU bioreactor 2604. The distribution of the discrete cartridges 2700 may depend on at least one of the following factors: (1) the need for the aquatic plant culture, (2) the distribution time required to send the cartridge to the location, and (3) the predetermined life stage of the portion of the aquatic plant culture packaged in the cartridge 2700. The server 2606 may be configured to distribute the cartridges 2700 to a specific location and / or a specific POU bioreactor 2604 based on at least the above factors. In some embodiments, the server 2606 may be configured to automatically distribute the cartridges 2700 to a specific location and / or a specific POU bioreactor 2604 based on at least the above factors.

[0324] Upon reaching its destination, the cylinder 2700 can be placed in the input unit (e.g., input unit 320) of the POU bioreactor 2604. Once received by the input unit 320, the POU bioreactor 2604 and, specifically, its control unit 2614, can perform an initialization process for the cylinder 2700 and the aquatic plant culture contained therein. This initialization process may include one or more of the following steps: reading the identification tag 2720, recording a timestamp when the cylinder 2700 is received by the POU bioreactor 2604, reading the cylinder sensor 2722, capturing images of the aquatic plant culture contained in the chamber 2702, sending the aquatic plant culture to an incubation unit (e.g., incubation-growth chamber 321), capturing images of the aquatic plant culture in the incubation unit, and performing image processing techniques on the collected images to determine at least one characteristic of the aquatic plant culture.

[0325] Control unit 2614 may include a scanner 2616 configured to read coded information on identification tag 2720. Scanner 2616 may be, but is not limited to, a barcode scanner, an RFID sensor, and a QR code scanner. Scanner 2616 may be located within the input unit of POU bioreactor 2604 and / or accessible from outside POU bioreactor 2604, allowing manual operation by a user. Control unit 2614 may be configured to receive, process, and / or store all information collected during the initialization process. Control unit 2614 may be further configured to send information collected during the initialization process to server 2606.

[0326] Figure 30A and 30B An initialization process 3000 according to one embodiment is shown. In step 3010, cylinder 2700 is received into the input unit (e.g., input unit 320) of POU bioreactor 2604. When cylinder 2700 is received, control unit 2614 may record a timestamp when cylinder 2700 is received in step 3012. In some embodiments, the input unit of POU bioreactor 2604 may also include a sterilization chamber for sterilizing cylinder 2700 received in the input unit. The sterilization chamber may use any suitable sterilization process, including but not limited to UV irradiation methods, ozone (O3) sterilization / disinfection methods, etc., to sterilize cylinder 2700.

[0327] After the timestamp is recorded in step 3012, the cylinder sensor 2722 associated with cylinder 2700 is read by control unit 2614 in step 3014. Control unit 2614 may include a reader 2618 configured to read cylinder sensor 2722. Reader 2618 may be, but is not limited to, an optical sensor (e.g., for reading a color indicator on cylinder sensor 2722), an RFID sensor (e.g., for reading information from an RFID chip on cylinder sensor 2722), an electrical sensor (e.g., for contacting and reading electrical information stored on cylinder sensor 2722), etc. In step 3016, control unit 2614 determines whether the information obtained from cylinder sensor 2722 indicates a problem with cylinder 2700 (i.e., whether the information obtained from cylinder sensor is adequate). For example, if temperature cylinder sensor 2722 indicates that cylinder 2700 has undergone calorimetry, then control unit 2614 may determine that cylinder 2700 has a problem. If one or more cylinder sensors 2722 indicate a problem with cylinder 2700, then control unit 2614 may discard (or discard) cylinder 2700 in step 3018 and warn server 2606 of the problem in step 3020. If cylinder 2700 is discarded or discarded in step 3018, then control unit 2614 may terminate the initialization process and wait for a new cylinder 2700 to be inserted into the input unit of POU bioreactor 2604.

[0328] If the control unit 2614 determines that the information obtained from the canister sensor 2722 in step 3016 is valid, then the control unit 2614 may be configured to use the scanner 2616 to read and collect canister identification information from the identification tag 2720 associated with the canister 2700 in step 3022. In embodiments where the identification tag 2720 is not located on the canister 2700, the control unit 2614 may send a signal to the user (e.g., via display 376) to scan the identification tag 2720 using the scanner 2616. Alternatively, the user may input canister identification information using the user interface 377. After reading and collecting the canister identification information from the identification tag 2720, the control unit 2614 may be configured to store the information (e.g., in memory 378) and / or send at least some of the canister identification information to the server 2606 in step 3024. The control unit 2614 may also send a timestamp of when the canister 2700 was received in the input unit to the server 2606 in step 3024. Once received by server 2606, server 2606 may be configured to store the information (e.g., in memory 388) and / or process the information (e.g., using processor 386).

[0329] After sending the information in step 3024, control unit 2614 may wait for server 2606 to respond with a message indicating that the initialization process can safely continue or with a warning that it cannot safely continue. If a warning is received, control unit 2614 may discard (or discard) cylinder 2700 in step 3028 and warn server 2606 that cylinder 2700 was discarded in step 3030. If cylinder 2700 is discarded or discarded in step 3028, control unit 2614 may terminate the initialization process and wait for a new cylinder 2700 to be inserted into the input unit of POU bioreactor 2604. If a message indicating that it is safe to continue is received in step 3026, the initialization process may continue to step 3032. In some implementations, the control unit 2614 may determine whether to discard the cartridge 2700 in step 3026. However, the control unit 2614 may send the cartridge identification information and timestamp to the server 2606 in step 3024 and send a discard warning to the server in step 3030.

[0330] Steps 3016 and 3026 discard problematic cylinders 2700 (e.g., cylinders that may be contaminated or may not contain viable aquatic plant cultures based on information received from identification tag 2720 and cylinder sensor 2722). These steps serve to protect the POU bioreactor 2604 from handling potentially contaminated or non-viable aquatic plant cultures that would otherwise require costly cleaning and sterilization before the POU bioreactor 2604 can be reused. In other words, steps 3016 and 3026 act as an initial screening process for cylinders 2700 and ensure that only cylinders 2700 containing safe and healthy aquatic plant cultures are opened and extracted into the input unit of the POU bioreactor 2604.

[0331] In step 3032, the extractor 322 can access one or more compartments 2702 of the cylinder 2700, and the control unit 2614 can image the aquatic plant culture 2710 contained in the one or more compartments 2702. In response to receiving an image, the control unit 2614 can be configured to identify at least one of a plurality of parameters relating to the characteristics of the aquatic plant by employing at least one image processing technique on each received image. Furthermore, the control unit 2614 can determine one or more characteristics of the aquatic plant culture 2710. These multiple characteristics may include, but are not limited to, morphological features (i.e., shape, size), color features (pigments of one or more aquatic plants), texture of the aquatic plant, transparency level of the aquatic plant, etc. In some embodiments, the control unit 2614 can identify the features and use the image processing techniques discussed herein. In some embodiments, the control unit 2614 can send the collected images to a server 2606, and the server 2606 can be configured to identify at least one parameter of the aquatic plant culture 2710 and determine one or more characteristics by employing at least one image processing technique on each received image.

[0332] In step 3034, control unit 2614 (or server 2606) determines whether the aquatic plant culture 2710 is viable (i.e., healthy and uncontaminated). If the aquatic plant culture 2710 is not viable, control unit 2614 may discard the container 2700 in step 3036 and send a discard warning to server 2606 in step 3038, informing server 2606 that the container 2700 has been discarded. If the container 2700 is discarded in step 3038, control unit 2614 may terminate the initialization process and wait for a new container 2700 to be inserted into the input unit of POU bioreactor 2604.

[0333] If the aquatic plant culture 2710 is deemed viable in step 3034, it may be transferred in step 3040 to the incubation-growth chamber (e.g., incubation-growth chamber 321) of the POU bioreactor 2604. The control unit 2614 may be configured to operate the extractor 322 to transfer the aquatic plant culture 2710 from chamber 2702 to incubation-growth chamber 321. Once received in incubation-growth chamber 321, the aquatic plant culture 2710 may mature under the supervision of the control unit 2614. While the aquatic plant culture 2710 is in incubation-growth chamber 321, the control unit 2614 may be configured to fertilize the aquatic plant culture 2710 with fertilizer or fertilizer reserve solution 2716 contained in chamber 2702 of cylinder 2700. Control unit 2614 can be configured to use cylinder identification information read from identification tag 2720 to determine the amount and / or type of fertilizer used. Control unit 2614 can also be configured to operate extractor 322 to retrieve the correct type and / or amount of fertilizer or fertilizer stock solution 2716 from chamber 2702. In some embodiments, control unit 2614 can be configured to retrieve the correct type and / or amount of fertilizer stock solution 2716 from a fertilizer stock solution container associated with POU bioreactor 2604 and can be configured to use fertilizer stock solution 2716 to prepare fertilizer medium.

[0334] After a predetermined time period (e.g., approximately 24 hours), the control unit 2614 can image the aquatic plant culture 2710 in the incubation-growth chamber 321 and identify at least one parameter among a variety of parameters related to the characteristics of the aquatic plant by applying at least one image processing technique to each received image. Furthermore, the control unit 2614 can determine one or more characteristics of the aquatic plant culture 2710. In some embodiments, the control unit 2614 can send the collected images to a server 2606, and the server 2606 can be configured to identify at least one parameter of the aquatic plant culture 2710 and determine one or more characteristics by applying at least one image processing technique to each received image.

[0335] In step 3046, control unit 2614 (or server 2606) determines whether the aquatic plant culture 2710 is viable (i.e., healthy and uncontaminated). If the aquatic plant culture 2710 is not viable, control unit 2614 may attempt to revive the aquatic plant culture 2710 by changing the growth conditions in the incubation-growth chamber 321 and allowing the aquatic plant culture 2710 to continue growing. If the aquatic plant culture 2710 is not viable, control unit 2614 may discard the cylinder 2700 in step 3048 and send a discard warning to server 2606 in step 3050 before or after the change in growth conditions, informing server 2606 that the cylinder 2700 has been discarded. If the cylinder 2700 is discarded in step 3048, control unit 2614 may terminate the initialization process and wait for a new cylinder 2700 to be inserted into the input unit of POU bioreactor 2604.

[0336] If the aquatic plant culture 2710 is deemed viable in step 3046, it may be transferred to the growth unit (e.g., growth unit 330) of the POU bioreactor 2604 under the control of the control unit 2614 in step 3052. The control unit 2614 may also be configured to send an acknowledgment alert to the server 2606 in step 3054, informing the server 2606 that the aquatic plant culture 2710 has been successfully received, incubated, and transferred to the growth unit 330.

[0337] Once in growth unit 330, aquatic plant culture 2710 can continue to grow under the control of control unit 2614 and will eventually be collected (e.g., via collection unit 340). Control unit 2614 can be configured to fertilize aquatic plant culture 2710 with fertilizer reserve solution 2716 contained in chamber 2702 of cylinder 2700 after the aquatic plant culture 2710 has been transferred to growth unit 330. Control unit 2614 can also be configured to use cylinder identification information read from identification tag 2720 to determine the amount and / or type of fertilizer used. If other aquatic plant cultures are already present in growth unit 330, aquatic plant culture 2710 will be used to supplement the supply of aquatic plants within growth unit 330, and thus provide a continuous supply of viable aquatic plants for collection at POU bioreactor 2604. In other words, aquatic plant culture 2710 begins to grow alongside existing aquatic plant cultures and becomes part of the same culture. In some embodiments, the aquatic plants in the POU bioreactor 2604 are collected at times corresponding to the time they were introduced into the POU bioreactor 2604. In other words, the POU bioreactor 2604 can be configured to always collect the oldest aquatic plants (i.e., first-in, first-out collection).

[0338] The control unit 2614 may also be configured to monitor the growth of the aquatic plant culture within the growth unit 330 after the initialization process. For example, the control unit 2614 may continue to send one or more images to the server 2606 or determine one or more characteristics and / or states of the aquatic plant culture and send that information to the server 2606. In some embodiments, the control unit 2614 may be configured to continuously (e.g., once a day or once a week) send information related to growth within the growth unit 330 to the server 2606. In some embodiments, the control unit 2614 may be configured to continuously send this information to the server 2606 in real time.

[0339] After receiving information from POU bioreactor 2604, server 2606 can be configured to use the information to adjust the distribution of cylinders 2700 within distribution system 2600. For example, if it is determined that the aquatic plant culture in a specific POU bioreactor 2604 is growing slowly, server 2606 can be configured to send additional cylinders 2700 to the POU bioreactor 2604 to supplement the supply of aquatic plants in the POU bioreactor 2604. As another example, if it is determined that the aquatic plant culture is continuously dying within a specific POU bioreactor 2604, server 2606 can instruct the POU bioreactor 2604 to require maintenance and can stop sending cylinders 2700 to the POU bioreactor 2604.

[0340] Server 2606 can be configured to track the distribution of cylinder 2700 by processing information collected from POU bioreactor 2604 (e.g., cylinder identification information, timestamps, disposal warnings, etc.). Server 2606 can also be configured to store and process information collected from source bioreactor 2602 (e.g., collection scheme, growing species, etc.), along with information collected from POU bioreactor 2604. Additionally, server 2606 can be configured to perform one or more actions based on information collected from source bioreactor 2602 and / or POU bioreactor 2604. These actions can regulate one or more events within distribution system 2600.

[0341] In some implementation schemes, such as Figure 26As shown, the distribution system 2600 may include a central processing unit 2620 having a control unit 2622. The central processing unit 2620 may include a display 2624 and a user interface 2626. The display 2624 and user interface 2626 may be the same as or similar to the display 376 and user interface 377. In some embodiments, the central processing unit 2620 may not be a standalone unit, but may be a component of a source bioreactor 2602 in the distribution system 2600. In other words, a source bioreactor 2602 may be a managed bioreactor including the central processing unit 2620. The central processing unit 2620 may allow a user to communicate with a server 2606. For example, the central processing unit 2620 may allow a user to send commands to the server 2606 and review messages sent from the server 2606. Additionally, the central processing unit 2620 may allow a user to review all information collected by the server 2606 from the source bioreactor 2602 and the POU bioreactor 2604.

[0342] Server 2606 may be configured to perform one or more of the following actions based on information collected from source bioreactor 2602 and / or POU bioreactor 2604: (i) requesting a new cylinder shipment for POU bioreactor 2604; (ii) adjusting the shipment date of a subsequent cylinder shipment from source bioreactor 2602; (iii) adjusting the aquatic plant culture 2710 in cylinder 2700 for the subsequent cylinder shipment (e.g., the species of the aquatic plant culture, the life stage of the aquatic plant culture, or the amount of the aquatic plant culture); (iv) customizing the contents of cylinder 2700 for delivery to The server 2606 may: (v) specify the location of the POU bioreactor 2604; (vi) send a status report for the POU bioreactor 2604 to the central processing unit 2620; (vii) adjust the growth conditions in the source bioreactor 2602; (vii) adjust the storage medium 2712 for subsequent canister shipments; (viii) adjust one or more fertilizer stock solutions 2716 (including tested organic solutions) for subsequent canister shipments; and (ix) adjust the collection scheme in the source bioreactor 2602; and (x) adjust one or more other substances, including but not limited to cleaning agents and additives, for subsequent canister shipments. The server 2606 may automatically perform one or more of these actions, or the server 2606 may send suggestions to the user (e.g., via the central processing unit 2620) for subsequent actions by the user.

[0343] In some implementations, server 2606 may be authorized by the user of POU bioreactor 2604 to confirm the shipment of new cylinders (e.g., via display 376 and user interface 377). In some implementations, the user may schedule the automatic shipment of new cylinders over a specific time period (e.g., one year). The adjustment of shipment dates may be based on various factors. For example, if POU bioreactor 2604 sends a discard warning to server 2606, then server 2606 may be configured to expedite the shipment of new cylinders to said POU bioreactor 2604. As another example, if the consumption of aquatic plants at a specific POU bioreactor 2604 increases (i.e., POU bioreactor 2604 is distributing a larger quantity of aquatic plants), then server 2606 may be configured to increase the frequency of cylinder shipments to said POU bioreactor 2604 to meet the increased demand.

[0344] In some embodiments, server 2606 may adjust the species, life stage, or quantity of aquatic plant cultures in subsequent container shipments based on information relating to the characteristics of the aquatic plant cultures grown in a specific POU bioreactor 2604. For example, if it is determined that the aquatic plant cultures in a specific POU bioreactor 2604 are growing slowly or are under stress, server 2606 may be configured to change the predetermined life stage of the aquatic plant cultures sent to said POU bioreactor 2604. In some embodiments, adjusting the collection scheme in source bioreactor 2602 may change the life stage of the aquatic plant cultures when they are collected and packaged in another container (e.g., from the spring life stage to the winter life stage). In some embodiments, adjusting the collection scheme in source bioreactor 2602 may change the time within the life stage of the aquatic plant cultures when they are collected and packaged in another container (e.g., from two weeks to one week into the spring life stage). Altering the life stage and / or the timing of collection and packaging can help alleviate any stress given to the aquatic plant cultures during distribution to specific locations.

[0345] In some implementations, adjusting the collection scheme in source bioreactor 2602 accelerates the life cycle of the aquatic plant cultures in source bioreactor 2602, making the aquatic plant cultures ready for collection at an earlier date. For example, if server 2606 determines that aquatic plant cultures in their spring life stage will be scarce in the near future, then server 2606 may be configured to accelerate the winter life stage of aquatic plant cultures in specific source bioreactor 102, causing the spring life stage to occur earlier in time.

[0346] The species of aquatic plant cultures collected and packaged can also be adjusted for various reasons. For example, a specific species may survive better during its winter life stage during long-distance distribution, or the user may require different types of species for his or her POU bioreactor 2604. Additionally, the species of aquatic plant cultures collected and packaged can be adjusted to maintain a long-term cultivation pattern of biodiversity in the source bioreactor 2602 or POU bioreactor 2604. The species of aquatic plant cultures, the life stage of the aquatic plant cultures, the quantity of aquatic plant cultures, and the type of preservation medium and / or fertilizer can be customized for a specific POU bioreactor 2604 based on information received from those POU bioreactors 2604.

[0347] In some embodiments, server 2606 may be configured to guide POU bioreactor 2604 in adjusting its growth conditions based on information received from POU bioreactor 2604. However, in some embodiments, POU bioreactor 2604 may adjust its own growth conditions based on information it collects and processes (or processed information received from server 2606, such as feature determination). In some embodiments, server 2606 may regulate other substances that need to be transported to POU bioreactor 2604, including but not limited to cleaning agents and solution additives.

[0348] As discussed above, systems 300, 600, and 650 include a bioreactor having one or more growth units 330 adapted to grow one or more aquatic plants, one or more collection units 340 adapted to collect one or more aquatic plants, and one or more treatment units 350 adapted to modify and / or customize the one or more aquatic plants collected from the one or more collection units 340. Each growth unit 330 may include one or more growth devices, such as growth device 3200 (see example...). Figure 32 and 33A The system 300 may also include an input unit 320 adapted to receive aquatic organisms, fertilizers, water, and / or air as starting materials, and one or more output units 360 adapted to supply the aquatic plants and / or culture media to a user. The outputs may be provided as food, pharmaceutical substances, cosmetic substances, chemicals, or other suitable products.

[0349] In some implementations, bioreactor systems and, more specifically, one or more growth devices and related methods are designed for growing aquatic plants in a controlled and compact environment. Figure 31A schematic diagram of a growth apparatus according to one embodiment is shown. The growth apparatus 3100 may include one or more modules 3120. The one or more modules 3120 may function similarly to horizontal conduits. For example, the growth apparatus 3100 may include a bottom module 3120-1 and one or more stacked modules 3120 (i.e., modules 3120-2 to 3120-n) vertically positioned above the bottom module 3120. The growth apparatus 3100 may include vertical conduits 3110 for circulating aquatic plants (AP) and liquid growth medium (LGM) between the one or more modules 3120. In some embodiments, the vertical conduits 3110 may be formed as a continuous loop interconnecting each module 3120 within the growth apparatus 3100. In some embodiments, the vertical conduits 3110 may include a plurality of sub-channels 3116 connecting adjacent modules 3120. For example, as... Figure 31 As shown, subchannel 3116 can be connected to inlet 3112 and outlet 3114 on each module 3120, inlet 3112 being configured to supply AP and / or LGM to module 3120 and outlet 3114 being configured to remove AP and / or LGM from module 3120.

[0350] In some embodiments, the AP and LGM can flow into module 3120 via inlet 3112, circulate within the module, and flow out of the module via outlet 3114. In some embodiments, each module 3120 may include at least one baffle 3118 for guiding the flow of the AP and / or LGM within the module. Although Figure 31 A single flat partition 3118 is shown, but each module 3120 may include multiple partitions of any shape and orientation. Partition configurations include, but are not limited to, references. Figures 35A-35D Described partition configuration.

[0351] Vertical conduit 3110 facilitates the inflow and outflow of AP and / or LGM into each module 3120 located within the growth apparatus 3100. In some embodiments, AP and / or LGM can flow continuously between modules 3120 via vertical conduit 3110, inlet 3112, and outlet 3114. In some embodiments, inlet 3112 and / or outlet 3114 may include one or more valves for controlling the flow of AP and / or LGM between adjacent modules. Valves located at or near inlet 3112 and / or outlet 3114 may include static valves, mechanical valves, and / or electronically controlled valves, including but not limited to the valve configurations discussed herein. In some embodiments, AP and / or LGM can flow between modules 3120 by gravity, and AP and / or LGM can be recirculated from bottom module 3120-1 to top module 3120-n using pump 3119.

[0352] Figure 32A growth apparatus 3200 according to one embodiment is shown. The growth apparatus 3200 may include a bottom module 3220-1 and one or more modules 3220 arranged in a vertical stack on the bottom module 3220-1. The modules 3220 are connected to each other via a first vertical conduit 3290. Each module 3220 may be configured to contain a volume of aquatic plants placed in a liquid growth medium designed to provide growth conditions for the aquatic plants. The liquid growth medium may consist of, for example, but not limited to, water, essential salts and fertilizers, nutrient enrichment compounds, growth stimulating compounds (e.g., dissolved organic carbon), and antimicrobial agents (e.g., antibiotics and fungicides). In some embodiments, a control unit 370 may be configured to control, for example, light, CO2 content, pH level, temperature, etc., within the growth apparatus 3200 to generate an ecosystem that mimics the natural growth conditions optimal for the growth of the aquatic plants. Furthermore, the connection between the modules 3220 via the first vertical conduit 3290 allows the liquid growth medium and / or the aquatic plants to flow uniformly between the stacked modules 3220. After the aquatic plants are collected, the liquid growth medium can be recycled for future use.

[0353] The control unit 370 can be connected to one or more components constituting the growth apparatus 3200 and can be configured to control the operation of the growth apparatus 3200. Although Figure 32 A single control unit is shown, but it should be understood that the control unit can be modular. In other words, the growth apparatus 3200 may have sub-control units (not shown) controlled by a management control unit (such as control unit 370).

[0354] The growth device 3200 may include a stack of modules 3220-1 to 3220-n (n being an integer having a value of 2 or greater), having a bottom module 3220-1 and one or more modules 3220-2 to 3220-n vertically positioned on the bottom module 3220-1. The growth device 3200 may be designed and configured to mimic natural conditions for the aquatic plants to promote optimal growth of the aquatic plants within the growth device 3200. For example, the growth device 3200 may include an air (CO2) flow source (i.e., air supply) 3230 that can provide an air (CO2) flow to each module 3220. Furthermore, each module 3220 may include light sources 3322-1 to 3222-n, inlets 3231-1 to 3231-n for receiving the air (CO2) flow, and outlets 3232-1 to 3232-n for releasing excess air pressure. The light source 3222 may include, but is not limited to, an LED light source. It should be understood that the entry of air (CO2) into the growth unit 3200, the release of excess pressure, and the level of illumination can be controlled by the control unit 370.

[0355] The growth device 3200 may also include a separation unit 3240 for periodically or continuously separating the collected aquatic plants from the liquid growth medium in which the aquatic plants are grown. In some embodiments, the separation unit 3240 may include a mechanical filter to separate the aquatic plants from the liquid growth medium. The mechanical filter may be, but is not limited to, a filter having a permeable membrane that blocks the transfer of particles the size of or larger than the aquatic plants while allowing the growth medium and particles having a particle size smaller than the aquatic plants to pass through. The separation unit 3240 may additionally or alternatively contain additional mechanical and / or chemical filters to remove any type of unwanted elements other than the aquatic plants. For example, the filter within the separation unit 3240 may be able to remove debris, contaminants, and / or inactive aquatic plants from the liquid growth medium. The separation unit 3240 may also include a pump for controlling the inflow and outflow of the liquid growth medium and aquatic plants from the separation unit 3240.

[0356] According to some embodiments, after the aquatic plants are separated from the liquid growth medium, the liquid growth medium can be transferred to modification unit 3250 for recycling. Modification unit 3250 may include a system for sterilizing and / or disinfecting the liquid growth medium. Modification unit 3250 may use at least one of a variety of methods to sterilize and / or disinfect the liquid growth medium, including but not limited to UV irradiation, ozone (O3) sterilization / disinfection, etc. Modification unit 3250 may additionally or alternatively contain a chemical filter for removing any type of unwanted elements. Furthermore, modification unit 3250 may be configured to dissolve one or more essential elements (e.g., fertilizers) in the liquid growth medium. Essential fertilizers may be, but are not limited to, nitrogen, phosphorus, iron, potassium, sulfur, calcium, magnesium, zinc, compounds containing at least one of these elements, and combinations thereof. Furthermore, modification unit 3250 may be configured to perform aeration, pH and / or temperature regulation, etc. Additionally, modification unit 3250 may guide the liquid growth medium to a first discharge outlet channel 3299a for disposal. In some embodiments, each growth unit 3200 within the bioreactor 310 includes a separation unit 3240 and a modification unit 3250. In some embodiments, multiple growth units 3200 within the bioreactor 310 may share one or more separation units 3240 and / or modification units 3250. The modification unit 3250 may also include a pump for controlling the inflow and outflow of liquid growth medium and aquatic plants from the modification unit 3250.

[0357] In some embodiments, the growth apparatus 3200 may include a storage unit 3260, which may be, for example, but not limited to, a tank suitable for storing the liquid growth medium. A pumping unit 3270 may be used to pump the liquid growth medium from the storage unit 3260 to the top module 3220-n in a stack of modules 3220 via a vertical channel 3297. Pumping may be performed manually or automatically under the control of a control unit 370. In some embodiments, each growth apparatus 3200 within the bioreactor 310 includes a storage unit 3260 and a pumping unit 3270. In some embodiments, multiple growth apparatuses 3200 within the bioreactor 310 may share one or more storage units 3260 and / or pumping units 3270.

[0358] like Figure 32 As shown, a first vertical conduit 3290, serving as an interconnecting vertical channel beginning at the bottom module 3220-1, vertically connects all modules 3220 placed above the bottom module 3220-1. The first vertical conduit 3290 may include multiple sub-channels 3291, each of which connects a module 3220 to a module directly below it. In some embodiments, such as... Figure 32 As shown, sub-channel 3291 is aligned in a vertical configuration. In some embodiments, such as... Figure 31 and 33A As shown, sub-channels 3291 may not be vertically aligned, such that the first sub-channel 3291 is horizontally offset from the adjacent second sub-channel 3291. The first vertical conduit 3290 may be configured to allow at least a portion of the aquatic plants and / or the liquid growth medium to flow from a higher module 3220 in the module stack to a lower module 3220 in the module stack. In some embodiments, one or more valves 3224 control the flow of the liquid growth medium and / or aquatic plants from module 3220 into sub-channel 3291. In some embodiments, the flow rate within sub-channel 3291 may be controlled via a flow rate valve 3295, which may be operated manually or under the control of control unit 370. In some embodiments, valve 3224 is a static valve. In some embodiments, valve 3224 is a mechanical or electronic valve controlled by control unit 370. In some embodiments, valve 3224 is manually controlled. In some embodiments, the first vertical conduit 3290 may be connected to separation unit 3240 via a channel such as channel 3294. Therefore, the first vertical conduit 3290 can be further configured to allow at least a portion of the aquatic plants to flow to the separation unit 3240.

[0359] In some embodiments, the first vertical conduit 3290 may be connected to the separation unit 3252 and / or the modification unit 3255. The separation unit 3252 and the modification unit 3255 may perform the functions of the separation unit 3240 and the modification unit 3250, respectively, as described above. In some embodiments, such as Figure 32 As shown, the pumping unit 3270 is positioned between the separation unit 3252 and the modification unit 3255. In some embodiments, the modification unit 3255 can dispose of the liquid growth medium by guiding it to a second outlet channel 3299b. This can be done manually or automatically via the control unit 370. By providing vertical movement of the liquid growth medium, the first vertical conduit 3290 allows the growth apparatus 3200 to have a compact design, which provides several advantages discussed herein.

[0360] The vertical configuration of modules within the growing unit leverages the benefits of cultivating aquatic plants using horizontal pipes, thereby increasing the amount of aquatic plants that can be grown per unit area. In some implementations, this can significantly increase the yield per unit area, for example, compared to 50 kg / m² achieved by methods currently at the level of development. 2 Compared to the maximum floor space required, a stack of 100 modules (L = 180cm, W = 60cm, and H = 180cm) can generate 8,760 kg / m². 2 Annual output per unit area. Furthermore, the compact design of the system increases light utilization efficiency. The embodiments discussed herein are designed to achieve over 90% transfer of LED light to the plant for photosynthetic utilization, while emitting only photosynthetically active wavelengths to save energy. In some embodiments, the light source 3222 emits only light with wavelengths in the range of approximately 620 nm to approximately 700 nm and approximately 400 nm to approximately 515 nm.

[0361] In some embodiments, the growth device 3200 further includes one or more transition zones 3280-1 to 3280-p connected to at least one module 3220. The transition zone 3280 can be used in a collection process to capture a portion of the aquatic plant, details of which are described below. The portion of the aquatic plant can be transferred from the transition zone 3280 to the separation unit 3240 via a second vertical conduit 3292. The second vertical conduit 3292 may include a plurality of sub-channels 3293, each of which connects a module 3220 to a module directly below it. In some embodiments, such as... Figure 32As shown, sub-channels 3293 are aligned vertically. In some embodiments, sub-channels 3293 may not be aligned vertically, such that the first sub-channel 3293 is horizontally offset from the adjacent second sub-channel 3293. The second vertical conduit 3292 may be a vertical channel that begins at the bottom transition zone 3280-1 and vertically connects to each transition zone 3280 placed vertically on the bottom transition zone 3280-1. The second vertical conduit 3292 may also be connected to the separation unit 3240 via channel 3294.

[0362] In some embodiments, the second vertical conduit 3292 is designed to allow the liquid growth medium, along with a portion of the aquatic plants, to flow from each transition zone (e.g., the top transition zone 3280-p) to the separation unit 3240. Each transition zone 3280 may include valves 3282, namely valves 3282-1 to 3282-p (see...). Figure 33A In some embodiments, each valve 3282 is a static valve that allows a predetermined volume of the liquid growth medium and / or a predetermined volume of the aquatic plants to flow through it, depending on the level of the liquid growth medium and / or aquatic plants in discrete module 3220. In some embodiments, each transition zone 3280 includes more than one valve 3282. In some embodiments, the valve 3282 is a mechanical or electronic valve controlled by control unit 370. In some embodiments, the valve 3282 can be manually controlled.

[0363] like Figure 32 As shown, the growth device 3200 can be connected to the collection unit 340 via a collection valve 3275. The pumping unit 3245 can pump the collected aquatic plants and / or liquid growth medium to the collection unit 340 via the collection valve 3275. The collection valve 3275 can guide at least a portion of the aquatic plants and / or liquid growth medium to the collection unit 340 during the collection operation after passing through the separation unit 3240 and / or the biomass metering unit 5200. Additionally, the pumping unit 3245 and the collection valve 3275 can allow at least a portion of the aquatic plants and / or liquid growth medium to return to the module (e.g., top module 3220-n) after passing through the separation unit 3240 and / or the biomass metering unit 5200.

[0364] Collection unit 340 can be configured to collect the aquatic plants from separation unit 3240 and store them for further use. In some embodiments, the aquatic plants stored in collection unit 340 can be modified, analyzed, and / or used by one or more external entities. In some embodiments, collection unit 340 can store the aquatic plants until control unit 370 sends them to output unit 360. In some embodiments, collection unit 340 can store the aquatic plants until control unit 370 sends them to processing unit 350. In some embodiments, the aquatic plants bypass collection unit 340 and enter processing unit 350 and / or output unit 360 directly. In some embodiments, additional liquid growth medium can be loaded into growth device 3200 from liquid growth medium source 3265. Liquid growth medium source 3265 can be designed to transfer additional liquid growth medium, thereby maintaining the level of liquid growth medium within growth device 3200 and / or each module 3220 at a predetermined level. This can be performed manually or automatically under the control of control unit 370.

[0365] In some embodiments, the growth apparatus may include a biomass quantification unit 5200. The collected aquatic plants can be transported to the biomass quantification unit 5200 via a pumping unit 3245. Details of the biomass quantification unit are referenced below. Figures 52A-52C Detailed Description. In some embodiments, each growth device 3200 within the bioreactor 310 may include a biomass metering unit 5200 and a pumping unit 3245. In some embodiments, multiple growth devices 3200 within the bioreactor 310 may share one or more biomass metering units 5200 and / or pumping units 3245.

[0366] Each module 3220 in the stack of modules 3220 is configured to contain a volume of aquatic plants. Furthermore, each module 3220 in the stack of modules 3220 is configured to contain a volume of liquid growth medium designed to provide optimal growth conditions for the aquatic plants. These growth conditions may include, but are not limited to, water, essential salts, fertilizers, carbon dioxide (CO2), etc. The essential salts may include, but are not limited to, nitrogen, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron. Additionally, each module 3220 may be configured to act as a horizontal conduit, thereby allowing the liquid growth medium to circulate within each module 3220, with or without the aquatic plants. The circulation of the liquid growth medium and / or the aquatic plants is for cultivating the aquatic plants in each module 3220.

[0367] According to one embodiment, each module 3220 in the stack of modules 3220 includes a single valve 3224-1 to 3224-n. In some embodiments, each module 3220 may contain more than one valve 3224. In some embodiments, each valve 3224 is a static valve 3223 that allows a predetermined volume of the liquid growth medium and / or a predetermined volume of the aquatic plants to flow through it, depending on the level of the liquid growth medium and / or aquatic plants in the discrete module 3220. The flow of the liquid growth medium and / or aquatic plants may be controlled by a control unit 370. Additionally, the level of the liquid growth medium and / or the level of the aquatic plants in each module 3220 may be determined by the control unit 370 using one or more sensors 372 and / or 374. In some embodiments, the control unit 370 is configured to control the flow rate of the liquid growth medium flowing into the top module 3220-n, thereby controlling: (1) the level of the liquid growth medium in the top module 3220-n, (2) the flow of the liquid growth medium and / or aquatic plants between modules (in some embodiments, the flow rate valve 3295 in the sub-channel 3291 can also be used to control the flow of the liquid medium between modules), and (3) the collection of aquatic plants. By controlling the level of the liquid growth medium in the top module 3220-n, the control unit 370 can control the level of the liquid growth medium in each module 3220 via the flow of the liquid growth medium from the top module 3220-n to the bottom module 3220-1. Furthermore, by controlling the flow rate in the sub-channel 3291 via the flow rate valve 3295, the control unit 370 can further control the flow of the liquid growth medium from the top module 3220-n to the bottom module 3220-1. The flow of liquid growth medium and / or aquatic plants between modules 3220 can be facilitated by valve 3224 and first vertical conduit 3290. The flow of liquid growth medium and the collection of aquatic plants can be facilitated by transition zone 3280, which includes valve 3282 and second vertical conduit 3292.

[0368] In some embodiments, valves 3224 and 3282 are static valves 3223 and 3283, respectively, configured to allow the flow of a predetermined volume of liquid growth medium and / or aquatic plants, depending on the volume of the liquid growth medium and aquatic plants located in module 3220. In these embodiments, the predetermined volume of the liquid growth medium and / or aquatic plants is fixed due to the configuration of the static valves, thus facilitating consistent and repeatable transfer and / or collection of the aquatic plants. Furthermore, in these embodiments, each transfer and / or collection process automatically cleans the static valves because the liquid growth medium forced through the static valves automatically washes each component of the valves. This increases the cleanliness of the system, reduces the need for manual cleaning of the system by the user, reduces the possibility of valve failure, and reduces the chance of aquatic plants being trapped inside the valves, which could otherwise cause contamination “hot spots.”

[0369] The use of static valves also reduces the complexity of the system and provides a simple and reliable way to control the flow within the growth device 3200. Static valves reduce the number of moving parts and thus reduce the chance of failure and maintenance costs. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the static valves allow the flow of liquid growth medium and / or aquatic plants to be controlled at a single point. For example, by controlling the flow of liquid growth medium and / or aquatic plants in the top modules 3220-n, the volume of liquid growth medium and / or aquatic plants in each module 3220-n to 3220-1 can be automatically controlled due to the flow of the liquid growth medium and the configuration of static valves 3223 and 3283.

[0370] In some embodiments, the control unit 370 can control the liquid growth medium to flow not only into the top modules 3220-n, but also into multiple modules 3220 within a stack of modules. For example, in a growth apparatus with a large number of modules (e.g., 20 modules), the control unit 370 can control the liquid growth medium to flow into, for example, the first module (i.e., the top module), the middle module (e.g., the 11th module), and the last module (i.e., the bottom module). The control unit 370 can be configured to control the flow of the liquid growth medium into any module within a stack of modules.

[0371] In some embodiments, the static valve 3223 is configured to allow a predetermined volume of liquid growth medium to flow from the upper module to the lower module. Each static valve 3223 may be configured to allow the liquid growth medium to flow from module 3220 into the first vertical conduit 3290 and into the next module 3220 as the level of the liquid growth medium in module 3220 increases (see [reference]). Figure 33B(Referring to "State B" of valve 3223). For example, an increase in the liquid growth medium in a module 3220 (e.g., top module 3220-n) can cause the static valve 3223 in that module to allow the liquid growth medium to flow via sub-channel 3291 into a first vertical conduit 3290, flowing into the next module 3220-(n-1). In some embodiments, the flow of the liquid growth medium can be from top module 3220-n to bottom module 3220-1, correspondingly filling each module in between.

[0372] In some embodiments, the configuration of the static valve 3223 also allows a predetermined volume of aquatic plants to flow from the upper module 3220-n to the lower module 3220-(n-1). For example, when the volume / density of the aquatic plants increases (relative to previously present aquatic plants), at least a portion of the aquatic plants can be transferred to the next module 3220-(n-1) to reduce the aquatic plant density level in the previous module 3220-n. When the volume or density of the aquatic plants increases, the control unit 370 can fill the top module 3220-n with a liquid growth medium (see...). Figure 33B (as shown in "State C"). As a result, a portion of the aquatic plants is transferred from the top module 3220-n to module 3220-(n-1) via the first vertical pipe 3290 due to the configuration of the static valve 3223-n. The acceptable level of the liquid growth medium and / or the volume / density of the aquatic plants can be predetermined by the control unit 370. In some embodiments, the volume / density of the aquatic plants in each module 3220 is monitored using image sensors 374 and / or sensors 372 in communication with the control unit 370.

[0373] In some embodiments, when a portion of the aquatic plant reaches the bottom module 3220-1, that portion is transferred via a flow of liquid growth medium through a first vertical pipe 3290 to a separation unit 3240. In the separation unit 3240, the aquatic plant may undergo a filtration process as described in more detail above. In some embodiments, such as Figure 33A As shown, the bottom module 3220-1 does not include the sub-channel 3291 connected to channel 3294, but is instead connected to vertical line 3296. As an alternative to pumping unit 3270, an air-lift pump 3298 communicating with vertical line 3296 may be configured to pump at least a portion of the liquid growth medium and / or aquatic plants back to the first module 3220-n. In some embodiments, the growth device 3200 includes channel 3294 and vertical line 3296, and the bottom module 3220-1 is connected to both.

[0374] In some embodiments, valve 3282 in transition zone 3280 is a static valve 3283. In some embodiments, the configuration of static valve 3283 in transition zone 3280 allows another predetermined volume of aquatic plants to be collected via a second vertical conduit 3292. Simultaneously, static valve 3223 allows a portion of the aquatic plants to be transferred from the upper module to the lower module, and at least another portion of the aquatic plants can be collected via static valve 3283 (see [reference]). Figure 33B (as indicated by "State C*" in the text). At least another portion of the aquatic plants captured in each transition zone 3280 may be transferred via channel 3294 through a second vertical pipe 3292 to separation unit 3240 by the flow of liquid growth medium. In separation unit 3240, the at least another portion of the aquatic plants may undergo a filtration process as described in more detail above.

[0375] Figure 33A A growth apparatus 3200 according to one embodiment is shown. For example... Figure 33A As shown, the growth apparatus 3200 may include multiple modules 3220-n to 3220-1 arranged in a stacked configuration. Each module 3220 may include a sub-channel 3291, which, when combined, form a first vertical conduit 3290. A static valve 3223 connects each module 3220 to each sub-channel 3291. The static valve 3223 may include a first baffle 3225, a second baffle 3226, and a third baffle 3227. The size (e.g., height) and position of the first baffle 3225, the second baffle 3226, and the third baffle 3227 determine how much liquid growth medium and / or aquatic plants flow from the upper module 3220-n to the lower module 3220-(n-1). In other words, the height and position of the first partition 3225, the second partition 3226 and the third partition 3227 predetermine the volume of liquid growth medium and / or aquatic plants flowing from the upper module to the lower module, depending on the level of liquid growth medium and / or aquatic plants in each module 3220.

[0376] Each module 3220 may also include a transition zone 3280, and each transition zone 3280 includes at least one static valve 3283. For example... Figure 33A As shown, each static valve 3283 can connect each module 3220 to a subchannel 3293 in the second vertical conduit 3292. Each static valve 3283 may include a fourth baffle 3284 and a fifth baffle 3286. The height and position of the fourth baffle 3284 and the fifth baffle 3286 predetermine the volume of aquatic plants collected from each module 3220 during the collection operation. Figure 33A The size and position of each partition shown are exemplary and can be modified to provide the desired flow of liquid growth medium and / or aquatic plants.

[0377] In some implementations, the height and position of partitions 3225, 3226, 3227, 3284, and 3286 can be adjusted manually or under the control of control unit 370 to control the amount of LGM and / or AP leaving module 3220.

[0378] The operation of static valves 3223 and 3283 according to one embodiment will now be referred to. Figure 33B The following description is provided. It should be noted that healthy (vibrant) aquatic plants (APs) will typically float on top of the liquid growth medium (LGM). States A and A* show the levels of (LGM) and (AP) in module 3220 when neither LGM nor AP is flowing between modules 3220. In states A and A*, AP growth and volume / density increase are permitted in each module. As shown in state A, the third baffle 3227 in static valve 3223 prevents LGM and AP from flowing into subchannel 3291. Additionally, the fifth baffle 3286 in static valve 3283 prevents LGM and AP from flowing into the second vertical conduit 3292, as shown in state A*. The height of the third baffle 3227 determines the maximum amount of LGM and AP that module 3220 can accommodate.

[0379] State B illustrates how static valve 3223 is configured to allow LGM to flow only from one module to another. In some embodiments, if control unit 370 determines that fresh LGM is needed or that any module 3220 in the stack of modules requires additional LGM, then control unit 370 may allow fresh or additional LGM to flow into top module 3220-n. This may occur, for example, due to the need to change the growth conditions of the liquid growth medium. In some embodiments, the additional liquid growth medium is loaded from liquid growth medium source 3265 and / or storage unit 3260. As a result, the level of LGM in top module 3220-n increases, as shown in State B. When this occurs, a portion of the LGM is allowed to flow from the third partition 3227 into subchannel 3291, but AP is not allowed to flow due to the second partition 3226. Because the modules 3220 are stacked vertically, the flow of LGM from top module 3220-n causes LGM to flow over the third partition 3227 and into modules below top module 3220-n, etc. Although static valve 3223 allows LGM to flow into subchannel 3291, the fifth baffle 3286 in static valve 3283 still prevents LGM and AP from flowing into the second vertical pipe 3292, as shown in state B*. This allows additional LGM to be added to module 3220 without transferring or collecting any AP. A small amount of LGM flowing through the third baffle 3227 (see “State B”) can be considered as steady-state operation of growth unit 3200.

[0380] In some implementations, control unit 370 continuously allows a small amount of LGM to flow into the top module 3220-n. Thus, LGM is continuously and automatically replenished in each module of the stack. LGM continuously flows from one module to another through a first vertical conduit 3290, and then returns to the top module via vertical line 3296 in a closed loop. Similarly, LGM continuously flows from one module to another through a second vertical conduit 3292, and then returns to the top module via channel 3294, pumping unit 3245, and collection valve 3275.

[0381] If control unit 370 determines that a portion of the AP needs to be transferred and / or collected, control unit 370 may allow a larger amount of LGM to flow into top module 3220-n. As a result, the level of LGM in top module 3220-n rises to the levels shown in states C and C*. When this occurs, a portion of the AP is simultaneously transferred to subchannel 3291 and vertical pipe 3292 via valves 3223-n and 3283-n, respectively. As shown in state C, the level of LGM rises above the level of second baffle 3226. This causes only the portion of the AP located between the second baffle 3226 and the first baffle 3225 to flow over the second baffle 3226, into subchannel 3291, and into module 3220-(n-1) located below top module 3220-n. First baffle 3225 prevents any other portion of the AP from flowing over the second baffle 3226 and into subchannel 3291. Simultaneously, another portion of the AP is transferred to the second vertical conduit 3292, as shown in state C*. When the LGM rises above the fifth partition 3286, only the portion of the AP located between the fifth partition 3286 and the fourth partition 3284 flows over the fifth partition 3286, into the second vertical conduit 3292, and toward the separation unit 3240. The fourth partition 3284 prevents any other portion of the AP from flowing over the fifth partition 3286 and into the second vertical conduit.

[0382] Increasing the amount of LGM flowing into a module (e.g., top module 3220n) causes the module to enter states C and C*, resulting in a larger amount of LGM flowing into subsequent lower modules (3220n-1) via sub-channels 3291 and 3293. This increases the total volume of LGM and AP in module 3220n-1, causing it to enter states C and C*, which leads to an increase in the LGM level in modules below (3220n-2), which are sequentially cascaded with each module 3220 in the module stack.

[0383] In some implementations, the second partition 3226 and the fifth partition 3286 have the same maximum height, such as Figure 33A and 33BAs shown. In some embodiments, the maximum heights of the second baffle 3226 and the fifth baffle 3286 differ. The height and position of the baffles allow the AP to be transferred between modules and / or independently collected into the first and second vertical conduits 3290 and 3292, depending on the level of the LGM and / or AP in each module 3220. After the AP has been transferred and / or collected, the control unit 370 can reduce the flow of the LGM to the top module 3220-n and the system can be restored to state A / state A* or state B / state B*.

[0384] Figure 34 Demonstrates according to an implementation module 3220 along Figure 33A , 35A The cross-section of line A-A' in 35B, 35C, and 35D. For example... Figure 34 As shown, module 3220 may include a bottom wall 3234, side walls 3236, and a top wall 3238 defining a channel 3235, which accommodates a volume of liquid growth medium (LGM), a volume of aquatic plants (AP), and a volume of air. In some embodiments, one or more of the side walls 3236 may be partitions 3218. In some embodiments, module 3220 may be configured to accommodate, for example, LGM of about 0.5 to about 2 cm, AP of about 2 mm to about 3 mm, and air of about 7 mm. In some embodiments, air continuously flows over the AP and LGM. The airflow may be controlled by control unit 370. A light source 3222 may be positioned on module 3220, such as... Figure 34 As shown, or integrated within the top wall 3238. The wavelength and / or intensity of the light emitted from the light source 3222 can be controlled by the control unit 370. In some embodiments, each light source can be independently controlled by the control unit 370 to adjust the light intensity / wavelength in the discrete module.

[0385] Figure 35A , 35B Figures 35C and 35D illustrate various exemplary configurations of module 3220. Figure 35A An exemplary module 3220 is shown, which includes a channel 3235 having a continuous elliptical shape. Figure 35A The module 3220 shown may include a single flat partition 3218 for generating continuous channels 3235. Figure 35B An exemplary module 3220 is shown, which includes a channel 3235 having a U-shape. Figure 35B The module 3220 shown may include a single flat partition 3218 for generating a U-shaped channel 3235. Figure 35C An exemplary module 3220 is shown, which includes a channel 3235 having a continuous circular shape. Figure 35CThe module 3220 shown may include a circular partition 3218 for generating a continuous circular channel 3235. Figure 35D An exemplary module 3220 is shown, which includes a unique channel configuration. Figure 35D The illustrated module 3220 may include two inclined baffles 3218 for generating a desired flow pattern within the module 3220. According to some embodiments... Figure 35D The flow pattern and details of module 3220 shown are described below. Figure 38 , 47A 47B, 48A and 48B are described.

[0386] Although Figure 33A and 35A -35D illustrates various exemplary shapes for module 3220, but module 3220 may include any shape and may have various baffles for generating desired flow patterns within module 3220. Additionally, baffle 3218 may have any shape, size, or orientation for generating desired flow patterns within module 3220. In some embodiments, the module may not have baffles. Furthermore, although... Figure 33A and 35A -35D shows a module 3220 having an inlet 3212 and an outlet 3214 located at the same end of the module 3220, but the inlet 3212 and outlet 3214 may be located anywhere along the channel 3235 to facilitate the desired flow characteristics for the module 3220.

[0387] Figure 36 An exemplary and non-limiting flowchart 3600 is provided to illustrate the operation of growing aquatic plants in a growth apparatus 3200 having a stack of modules 3220 according to one embodiment. The operation begins at 3610 when a control unit 370 allows liquid growth medium to flow into the top modules 3220-n. As this operation occurs, the liquid growth medium flows from the top modules 3220-n to the bottom modules 3220-1 of the stack via a first vertical conduit 3290, thereby filling each module 3220 in between. The closed-loop flow of the liquid growth medium through the first vertical conduit 3290 can create a uniform growth platform in the stack of modules 3220. The level of the liquid growth medium can be detected by a sensor 372 (e.g., a level sensor) in communication with the control unit 370. Starting material already matured in the incubation-growth chamber 321 can also be introduced into each module 3220 of the growth apparatus 3200 at 3610.

[0388] The liquid growth medium is designed to provide optimal growth conditions (e.g., water, essential salts, fertilizers, etc.) for the aquatic plants. According to one embodiment, the liquid growth medium can be manually or automatically, under the control of the control unit 370, pumped in a controlled manner from the storage unit 3260 to the top module 3220-n in the stack by the pumping unit 3270.

[0389] In step 3615, it is checked whether the volume of the liquid growth medium has reached a predetermined level, and if it has, then proceed to step 3620.

[0390] In 3620, according to one embodiment, when the volume of the liquid growth medium reaches a predetermined level, for example, approximately 1 cm, in at least one module 3220 (e.g., top module 3220-n), the initial aquatic plants that have matured in the incubation-growth chamber 321 can be transferred to the top module 3220-n via pumping unit 3270 and vertical line 3296 and / or via channel 3294 through pumping unit 3245 and collection valve 3275. In 3620, the aquatic plants flow into each module 3220. As the aquatic plants follow into the top module 3220-n, at least a portion of the aquatic plants are transferred from the top module 3220-n via vertical pipes 3290 and / or 3292 and into the module 3220 below the top module 3220-n. In other words, the aquatic plants are transferred manually or automatically under the control of control unit 370 in a controlled cascade manner. This can be due to the configuration of static valve 3223 (see...). Figure 33B State C) occurs or may occur due to the electronic operation of a dynamic or electronic valve (such as valve 3830 or 4230 as described herein) by the control unit 370. In some embodiments, this may occur due to manual operation of the valve by the user. During 3620, the culture (aquatic plant) is allowed to grow in each module 3220 under the supervision of the control unit 370. In some embodiments, the initial aquatic plant may be introduced into each module 3220 of the growth apparatus 3200 manually or automatically under the control of the control unit 370.

[0391] In 3620, the quantity / density of aquatic plants in different modules 3220 can be adjusted manually or under the supervision of control unit 370. The flow of aquatic plants can continue until the volume and liquid growth medium reach a predetermined volume and / or the aquatic plants reach a predetermined volume / density. In 3625, it is checked whether the volume / density of the aquatic plants in module 3220 has reached a predetermined level, and if it has, then proceed to 3630.

[0392] Once it is determined that the aquatic plants have reached a predetermined volume / density, the growth device 3200 can transition to a steady state in 3630. The steady state within the growth device 3200 can be defined as the continuous flow of a relatively small amount of liquid growth medium between modules 3220. This can be achieved due to the configuration of the static valve 3223 (see...). Figure 33B State B in the text), see below for reference. Figures 38-43 The configuration of the described dynamic valve 3830 or 4230 may occur due to the electronic operation of the control unit 370 of other types of mechanical or electronic valves. Steady-state operation allows aquatic plants to mature and grow under the supervision of the control unit 370. During steady-state operation, the AP within one or more modules may be continuously or periodically washed due to the flow of the LGM between modules. The washing of the AP is referred to below. Figure 44 and 45 A more detailed description follows. The growth apparatus can remain in a steady state until it is determined that a collection operation is required in 3635. The determination of when and how much to collect is controlled by the control unit 370.

[0393] In 3640, at least another portion of the aquatic plant may be captured in at least one transition zone 3280-p and collected via a second vertical conduit 3292. This may be due to the configuration of the static valve 3283 (see...). Figure 33B (State C*) (See below for reference) Figures 38-43 The configuration of the described dynamic valve 3830 or 4230 or the occurrence of this due to the control unit 370 operating other types of mechanical or electronic valves by electronic means.

[0394] In the case of a static valve, the control unit 370 may be configured to monitor the volume / density of aquatic plants in each module using, for example, an image sensor 374. In some embodiments, the control unit 370 is configured to follow a scheme for maintaining an acceptable volume / density of aquatic plants in each module. In said embodiment, the control unit 370 may be configured to transfer and / or collect a predetermined amount of aquatic plants when the volume / density of aquatic plants exceeds a predefined level in one or more modules 3220.

[0395] For example, the growth conditions in module 3220 can effectively enable the growth of aquatic plants in each module 3220 to reach a predetermined volume / density, such as a layer of aquatic plants approximately 3 mm thick. The volume / density of aquatic plants in each module 3220 can be determined by sensors 372 and / or 374 connected to control unit 370. When the volume / density of aquatic plants in a module increases to a predetermined level, a predetermined amount of aquatic plants can be transferred to the module below and / or collected. For example, if the volume / density of aquatic plants in the top module 3220-n reaches a predetermined volume / density (i.e., a layer of aquatic plants 3 mm thick), then 0.5 mm of aquatic plants can be transferred from the top module 3220-n to the module 3220-(n-1) below the top module 3220-n. These aquatic plants are transferred via valve 3224-n and sub-channel 3291 of the first vertical pipe 3290. As a result, the volume of aquatic plants in module 3220-(n-1) increases. Subsequently, a portion of the aquatic plants in module 3220-(n-1) can be transferred or collected from module 3220-(n-1) through the first vertical pipe 3290. This can also occur for each module 3220 in the stack of modules.

[0396] In some embodiments, the collected aquatic plants can be transferred from each module 3220 via transition zone 3280 and vertical conduit 3292. During the collection operation, a portion of the aquatic plants in modules 3220-n can be captured in transition zone 3280-p via valve 3282-p at 3640. In some embodiments, collection can occur simultaneously with the transfer of aquatic plants between modules 3220 (see, for example...). Figure 33B (States C and C* in the diagram). In some embodiments, collection can be a separate and independent operation. The collected portion of the aquatic plants, along with the liquid growth medium, can be transferred in 3640 to separation unit 3240 via a second vertical conduit 3292. After the pre-defined portions of the AP are transferred / collected via valves 3224-n and / or valve 3282-p respectively, each module 3220 will have space to grow more aquatic plants. According to some embodiments, the collection rate and total daily collection volume can be synchronized with the culture growth rate, such that only the accumulated growth biomass is collected. In some embodiments, different amounts of aquatic plants may be collected to meet user needs.

[0397] According to some embodiments, the volume of aquatic plants transferred via the first vertical pipe 3290 and the volume of aquatic plants captured in each transition zone 3280 are predetermined by the configuration of static valves 3223 and 3283. In these embodiments, the control unit 370 determines the number of transfer events occurring daily. In some embodiments, the volume of aquatic plants transferred via the first vertical pipe and / or captured in each transition zone 3280 may be controlled by an electronic valve or a dynamic valve (see below). Figures 38-43 The control unit 370 of the valve (described as 3830 or 4230) is determined.

[0398] Following the collection operation at 3640, the collected aquatic plants can be separated from the liquid growth medium via separation unit 3240, and the collected aquatic plants can be sent to collection unit 340 at 3645. Separation unit 3240 may include a mechanical filter to separate the aquatic plants from the liquid growth medium. Separation unit 3240 may additionally or alternatively contain a chemical filter to remove any unwanted elements other than the aquatic plants. In some embodiments, after the aquatic plants are separated from the liquid growth medium at 3645, the aquatic plants may be transferred to collection unit 340. Collection unit 340 can be used for temporary storage of the aquatic plants. Furthermore, the aquatic plants may be further analyzed, modified, and / or used by one or more external entities.

[0399] In unit 3650, after the liquid growth medium is separated from the aquatic plant, the liquid growth medium can be cleaned and / or recycled by modification unit 3250. As a non-limiting example, the recycling process may include a cleaning period, an analysis period, and an enrichment period. Modification unit 3250 may contain a physical filter for sterilizing and / or disinfecting the liquid growth medium. The sterilization and / or disinfection may be, but is not limited to, UV irradiation sterilization and disinfection methods, ozone (O3) sterilization and disinfection methods, etc. Modification unit 3250 may additionally or alternatively contain a chemical filter for removing any type of unwanted elements. After the cleaning period, the liquid growth medium can be analyzed to identify, for example, the temperature and / or pH of the liquid growth medium. In addition, the liquid growth medium can be analyzed to identify the levels of one or more essential salts and / or fertilizers found in the liquid growth medium. The essential salts may be, but are not limited to, nitrogen, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron. In some implementations, the modification unit 3250 can dispose of the liquid growth medium by directing it to the first discharge outlet channel 3299a. This can be done manually or automatically via the control unit 370.

[0400] In unit 3650, the liquid growth medium can also be modified (in response to the analysis described above) by unit 3250 to provide optimal growth conditions for the aquatic plants. This process may include dissolving one or more essential salts, fertilizers, etc., in the liquid growth medium. Furthermore, this process may include aeration, pH and / or temperature adjustment, etc. In some embodiments, the liquid growth medium is stored in storage unit 3260 for later use. According to one embodiment, additional liquid growth medium may be loaded from liquid growth medium source 3265 into growth device 3200. This can be performed manually or automatically by control unit 370 to maintain the level of liquid growth medium in module 3220.

[0401] In step 3655, it checks whether more aquatic plants need to be collected. If so, proceed to step 3635; otherwise, proceed to step 3660. In step 3660, it checks whether the cultivation needs to continue. If so, proceed to step 3630; otherwise, the process terminates. Subsequently, the control unit 370 can monitor the growth device 3200 to determine when to proceed. Figure 36 Any of the steps shown. In some embodiments, the volume of aquatic plants to be collected may be determined by the user and / or under the control of the control unit 370.

[0402] Figure 37 An image of a bioreactor 310 according to one embodiment. Figure 37 As shown, the bioreactor 310 may include multiple modules 3220, wherein multiple light sources 3222 are positioned between the modules 3220. Although Figure 37 A bioreactor 310 is shown having multiple modules 3220, but the bioreactor 310 may contain any number of modules 3220. Figure 37 Two sub-channels 3291 constituting the first vertical conduit 3290 are also shown, as well as a portion of a collection unit 340 according to one embodiment.

[0403] In some embodiments, the bioreactor (e.g., bioreactor 310) may include one or more dynamic valves for collecting a portion of the culture. The dynamic valves may include, for example, rotating, oscillating, or gate mechanisms configured to collect the aquatic plant culture. In some embodiments, the dynamic valves may be configured to collect a specific and reproducible amount of culture in subsequent collection operations. In some embodiments, the dynamic valves may be configured to collect a variable amount of culture. A control unit (e.g., control unit 370) may be configured to control the dynamic valves based on various conditions (e.g., aquatic plant density levels) determined using the bioreactor as described herein.

[0404] Figure 38-41This describes a module 3800 with a dynamic valve 3830 according to one embodiment. Module 3800 may include sidewalls 3802 defining flow areas for liquid growth medium (LGM) and aquatic plants (AP), two baffles 3804, and a floor 3806. The baffles 3804 may define a central channel 3850 with end openings, the channel having a proximal opening 3852 and a distal opening 3854. An inlet 3812 may be provided at the proximal end 3813 of module 3800 for supplying LGM and / or AP to module 3800, and an outlet 3814 may be provided opposite the inlet 3812 at the distal end 3815 of module 3800 for removing LGM and / or AP from module 3800. In embodiments including stacked modules, the inlet 3812 of one module may be in fluid communication with the outlet 3814 of the module above it (see [link]). Figure 41 A port 3810, in fluid communication with inlet 3812, can be provided to direct the LGM and / or AP from inlet 3812 to flow shaper 3808. Operation of flow shaper 3808 is described below. Figure 44 and 45 A more detailed description is provided. In some embodiments, floor 3806 may include sloping floor 3807, details of which can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 50 describe.

[0405] In some implementations, the LGM and / or AP can flow from port 3810, through central channel 3850 toward distal end 3815, outside distal opening 3854, around the end of partition 3804, and back toward port 3810 via external channel 3856. The LGM and / or AP returning via external channel 3856 can be drawn back into central channel 3850 via proximal opening 3852. The configuration of module 3800 results in continuous circulation of the LGM and / or AP within module 3800 during steady-state operation, facilitated by the configuration of dynamic valve 3830.

[0406] like Figure 38 As shown, the distal end 3815 of module 3800 may include a transition zone 3820, in which a dynamic valve 3830 is located. The transition zone 3820, together with the valve 3830, allows a portion of the AP to be collected manually or under the control of the control unit 370. Figure 38-41As shown, the dynamic valve 3830 may include an orifice 3834 having an opening 3838 for receiving an LGM and an AP, the orifice being defined by an orifice wall 3836 when in an open configuration. The dynamic valve 3830 may also include a valve sidewall 3840 connected to and at least partially surrounding the orifice wall 3836. The valve sidewall 3840 may be configured to seal with an outlet wall 3822 in the transition zone 3820 when the dynamic valve 3830 is in the closed position. In other words, when the dynamic valve 3830 is in the closed position, the valve sidewall 3840 may contact the end of the outlet wall 3822.

[0407] Valve sidewall 3840 may be connected to valve top wall 3842, which is connected to actuator 3832. In some embodiments, actuator 3832 is operatively coupled to control unit 370, and control unit 370 may be configured to control actuator 3832 to rotate dynamic valve 3830 between an open position and a closed position (see [reference]). Figure 40 In some embodiments, actuator 3832 may be manually controlled by a user to rotate dynamic valve 3830 between an open and closed position. In some embodiments, dynamic valve 3830 may rotate about pivot 3844. The configuration of module 3800 and dynamic valve 3830 results in a module configuration with a single valve. As discussed below, dynamic valve 3830 effectively performs the functions of static valves 3223 and 3283 (i.e., allowing LGM and / or AP to flow between modules and / or to collection unit 340). In some embodiments, module 3800 may include more than one dynamic valve 3830.

[0408] The operation of dynamic valve 3830 will now be referenced. Figure 39A-41 describe. Figure 38 and 39A The dynamic valve 3830 is shown in the closed position. In this closed position, the opening 3838 of the orifice 3834 faces the distal end 3815 of the module 3800. In this position, no AP can enter the orifice 3834 due to the valve sidewall 3840. Furthermore, the valve sidewall 3840 is sealed with the outlet wall 3822 to prevent AP from entering the outlet 3814. However, LGM is allowed to flow beneath the valve sidewall 3840, enter the orifice 3834, flow over the adjustable gate 3824, and exit the module 3800 via the outlet 3814.

[0409] Figure 39BThe dynamic valve 3830 is shown in the open position. In this open position, the opening 3838 of the orifice 3834 faces the proximal end 3813 of the module 3800. In this position, LGM and AP are allowed to flow into the orifice 3834 via the opening 3838. In the open position, LGM is still allowed to flow below the valve sidewall 3840 toward the outlet 3814. The height of the adjustable sluice gate 3824 controls the amount of LGM allowed to flow in the open and closed positions. In some embodiments, the height of the adjustable sluice gate may be controlled by a control unit 370.

[0410] Figure 40 The diagram illustrates the full rotation of dynamic valve 3830 during the collection operation. Dynamic valve 3830 is shown in the closed position in stage 1, where only the LGM flows toward outlet 3814 (i.e., steady-state operation). When the user and / or control unit 370 determines that a portion of the AP needs to be collected and / or transferred from module 3800, actuator 3832 begins to rotate dynamic valve 3830 toward the open position. As shown in stage 2, as dynamic valve 3830 rotates toward the open position, the AP floating on the LGM enters opening 3838 and is captured within orifice 3834. Actuator 3832 continues to rotate the dynamic valve to the open position shown in stage 3. In some embodiments, rotation of dynamic valve 3830 may stop in stage 3 to allow AP to fill orifice 3834. In some embodiments, rotation of the dynamic valve may be continuous and may not stop in stage 3. As shown in stages 4 and 5, dynamic valve 3830 completes its rotation by returning to the closed position. When the dynamic valve 3830 returns to the closed position in stage 5, the AP trapped in orifice 3834 flows into outlet 3814. Once all AP has flowed out of orifice 3834, module 3800 can resume steady-state operation as shown in stage 6. In some embodiments, valve sidewall 3840 remains in sealing contact with outlet wall 3822 throughout the entire rotation of dynamic valve 3830.

[0411] In some embodiments, a full rotation of the dynamic valve 3830 can occur within 1 to 30 seconds. In some embodiments, in addition to full rotation, the actuator 3832 can be configured to rotate the dynamic valve 3830 to the open position (stage 3) and reverse the rotation to return the dynamic valve 3830 to the closed position. In some embodiments, a partial rotation (i.e., from the closed position to the open position and back to the closed position) can occur within a total of 1 to 30 seconds. In some embodiments, the control unit 370 can be configured to repeatedly actuate the dynamic valve 3830 via the actuator 3832 after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed. This predetermined amount of time can range from one minute to several hours. In some embodiments, the control unit 370 can be configured to rotate the dynamic valve 3830 via the actuator 3832 in response to data collected by sensors 372 and / or 374. In some embodiments, a user can manually (via the control unit 370 or by physical operation) rotate the dynamic valve 3830 via the actuator 3832.

[0412] Figure 42 and 43 This describes a module 4200 having a dynamic valve 4230 according to one embodiment. Module 4200 may include sidewalls 4202 and a floor 4206 defining flow areas for LGM and AP. In some embodiments, module 4200 may include a sloping floor 4207. An inlet 4212 may be provided at a proximal end 4213 of module 4200 for supplying LGM and / or AP to module 4200, and an outlet 4214 may be provided opposite inlet 4212 at a distal end 4215 of module 4200 for removing LGM and / or AP from module 4200. In embodiments including stacked modules, an inlet 4212 of one module may be in fluid communication with an outlet 4214 of the module above it. A port 4210 in fluid communication with inlet 4212 may be provided to direct LGM and / or AP into module 4200.

[0413] In some implementations, the LGM and / or AP can flow from port 4210 toward transition zone 4220 located at the distal end 4215 of module 4200. The configuration of module 4200 results in continuous circulation of the LGM and / or AP within module 4200 during steady-state operation, which is facilitated by the configuration of dynamic valve 4230.

[0414] like Figure 41 and 42As shown, transition zone 4220 may have a dynamic valve 4230 located therein. The transition zone 4220, together with the dynamic valve 4230, allows a portion of the AP to be collected manually or under the control of the control unit 370. The dynamic valve 4230 may include a valve body 4240 having a body wall 4241. The valve body 4240 may be connected to a pivot 4238 for rotating the dynamic valve 4230 between a closed position and an open position. An actuator 4232 coupled to the pivot 4238 may be configured to rotate the dynamic valve 4230 between the closed and open positions. In some embodiments, the actuator 4232 is operatively coupled to the control unit 370, and the control unit 370 may be configured to control the actuator 4232 to rotate the dynamic valve 4230 between the open and closed positions. In some embodiments, the actuator 4232 may be manually controlled by a user to rotate the dynamic valve 4230 between the open and closed positions.

[0415] like Figure 43 As shown, the valve body 4240 may include an orifice 4242 having an orifice wall 4244 and an opening 4246. The orifice wall 4244 may be in fluid communication with a first open end 4250 of a groove 4248. The groove 4248 may include a first open end 4250 defined by the orifice wall 4244 and a second open end 4252 defined by the body wall 4241.

[0416] The operation of dynamic valve 4230 will now be referenced. Figure 43 Description. Phase 1 shows the dynamic valve 4230 in the closed position. In this closed position, the opening 4246 of the orifice 4242 faces the distal end 4215 of the module 4200. In this position, the body wall 4241 is sealed by the outlet wall 4222, preventing any AP from entering the orifice 4242. Additionally, due to the position of the slot 4248, APs floating on the LGM within the module 4200 cannot enter the orifice 4242 via the slot 4248 in the closed position. However, the LGM is allowed to flow into the slot 4248, through the orifice 4242, and out of the module 4200 via the outlet 4214. In some embodiments, the module 4200 may include an adjustable sluice gate similar to or the same as the adjustable sluice gate 3824.

[0417] When the user and / or control unit 370 determines that a portion of the AP needs to be collected and / or transferred from module 4200, actuator 4232 begins to rotate dynamic valve 4230 toward the open position. As shown in stage 2, as dynamic valve 4230 rotates toward the open position, opening 4246 of orifice 4242 rotates toward proximal end 4213 of module 4200. Actuator 4232 continues to rotate dynamic valve to the open position shown in stage 3. In some embodiments, rotation of dynamic valve 4230 may stop in stage 3 to allow AP to fill orifice 4234. In some embodiments, rotation of dynamic valve may be continuous and may not stop in stage 3. In either case, when dynamic valve 4230 is in the open configuration shown in stage 3, AP floating on LGM fills orifice 4234. As shown in stage 4, when dynamic valve 4230 returns to the closed position in stage 5, actuator 4232 reverses the rotation of dynamic valve 4230. When the dynamic valve 4230 returns to the closed position in stage 5, the AP trapped in orifice 4242 flows into outlet 4214. Once all AP has flowed out of orifice 4242, module 4200 can resume steady-state operation, in which only LGM flows toward outlet 4214 via channel 4248.

[0418] In some embodiments, two rotations of the dynamic valve 4230 (i.e., from the closed position to the open position and back to the closed position) can occur within a total of 1 to 30 seconds. In some embodiments, the control unit 370 can be configured to repeatedly actuate the dynamic valve 4230 via the actuator 4232 after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed. This predetermined amount of time can range from one minute to several hours. In some embodiments, the control unit 370 can be configured to rotate the dynamic valve 4230 via the actuator 4232 in response to data collected by sensors 372 and / or 374. In some embodiments, a user can manually (via the control unit 370 or by physical operation) rotate the dynamic valve 4230 via the actuator 4232.

[0419] Dynamic valves 3830 and 4230 allow the levels of AP and / or LGM within discrete modules to be controlled independently. For example, control unit 370 should determine which specific module within the stack (e.g., a third module within the stack) requires AP collection; control unit 370 can actuate a dynamic valve associated with said third module, thereby collecting AP only from said module. Furthermore, the design of dynamic valves 3830 and 4230 provides consistent collection operation. The amount of AP collected each time a dynamic valve is actuated is controlled by the size of orifices 3834 / 4242, which can be defined as a percentage of the total AP determined by the ratio of orifice area to total culture area. Thus, the amount of AP collected from the module during a single collection operation (i.e., a single actuation of valves 3830 / 4230) is consistent. Consistent collection volume helps determine how many times valves 3830 / 4230 need to be actuated to collect a certain amount of AP from the module. Moreover, the design of dynamic valves 3830 and 4230 promotes valve cleanliness. Each transfer and / or collection process automatically cleans the dynamic valve because the liquid growth medium forced through the dynamic valve automatically washes each component of the valve. This configuration allows for the use of a single output and input channel, thereby simplifying the design of the system and increasing its robustness. Additionally, no AP is left in or around the valve to dry, thus eliminating potential static contamination "hot spots."

[0420] During steady-state operation, the LGM of a module (e.g., module 3220, 3800, or 4200) within the stack that exits via an outlet (e.g., 2414, 3814, or 4214) can be transferred to the next module within the stack (see example). Figure 41 During steady-state operation, the continuous flow of the LGM between modules results in continuous washing of the APs within each module. This washing is caused successively by a relatively high-speed swirling flow near the module inlet, and a roughly linearly decelerating flow rate that allows the APs to resurface. This decelerating flow occurs over a sufficient distance to allow vigorous plants to float back to the surface of the LGM before reaching the collection valve.

[0421] When the LGM flows into the module, the active APs present within the module are forced downwards due to the inflow of the LGM. This forces the APs, along with any contaminants, debris, or inactive APs, toward the floor of the module. The active APs forced toward the floor will resurface due to CO2 cavitation naturally present in the discrete aquatic plants. In contrast, contaminants, debris, and inactive APs will remain near the floor at the bottom of the module. Thus, contaminants, debris, and inactive APs are allowed to flow along with the LGM through the valve (e.g., in...). Figure 39A(below the valve sidewall 3840 in the middle) to the next module in the stack. Finally, due to the continuous flow of the LGM, contaminants, debris and non-active APs are transferred from the stack of modules to the separation unit, where contaminants, debris and non-active APs can be removed.

[0422] During the collection operation, LGMs and APs leaving the exit module can be transferred to: 1) the next module (see example). Figure 41 1) or 2) directly to the collection unit via a second vertical conduit. In embodiments where the LGM and AP are transferred to the next module during the collection operation, the AP is ultimately "collected" only from the specific module connected to the collection unit within the stack (e.g., the bottom module within the stack). Embodiments where the LGM and AP are sent directly to the collection unit are used to separate the collection operation for each module from other modules within the stack. Valves associated with the module's outlet can guide the LGM and AP to the next module or directly to the collection unit. In some embodiments, these valves may be controlled by a control unit 370.

[0423] Figure 44 This describes a module 4400 with a flow shaper 4408 according to one implementation scheme. For example... Figure 44 As shown, module 4400 may include a sidewall 4402 and a floor 4406 defining flow areas for LGM and AP. LGM and AP may flow into module 4400 via inlet 4412 and port 4410. A flow shaper 4408 may be located on floor 4406 near the proximal end 4413 of the module. Flow shaper 4408 may protrude from floor 4406 and include a top surface 4409. In some embodiments, flow shaper 4408 may be formed as part of floor 4406. In some embodiments, flow shaper 4408 may be a separate component that is releasably or permanently attached to floor 4406. Flow shaper 4408 may be used to shorten “refloat distance” and improve the washing efficiency of aquatic plants flowing within the module (e.g., module 4400). Module 4400 may also include a transition zone 4420 and an outlet 4414 located at its distal end 4415. The transition zone 4420 may include a valve, such as the static valve 3283 or dynamic valve 3830 / 4230 described above, or the valve 5030 described below.

[0424] As used herein, "re-float distance" refers to the horizontal distance measured in the direction of flow of the liquid growth medium from a point on the top surface 4409 or floor 4406, where the aquatic plants can be forced downwards by swirling currents required for the plants to re-emerge. The "re-float distance" must be shorter than the distance required to reach the outlet point 4411 within the transition zone 4420 to ensure that viable APs do not inadvertently leak out of module 4400 via the transition zone 4420 during steady-state operation. In some embodiments, the swirling currents may be generated by the flow of aquatic plants and / or liquid growth medium exiting the inlet port 4410. Alternatively or additionally, the swirling currents may be generated locally by mechanical devices (e.g., propellers) or by directional airflows or other liquid flows.

[0425] like Figure 44 As shown, the APs exiting orifice 4410 and / or LGMs create a swirling flow below orifice 4410. This swirling flow forces the APs exiting or already present within module 4400 toward floor 4406. The APs forced toward floor 4406 will resurface due to their inherent natural buoyancy mechanism (i.e., tiny bubbles) naturally present in the discrete aquatic plants. This rebuoyancy distance can affect the size of the module described herein, as the operation of some valves described herein (e.g., valves 3283, 3830, and 4230) requires the APs floating on the LGM to function properly. For example, if the APs are present... Figure 39A If the active AP is located below the valve sidewall 3840, then during steady-state operation, it can be undesirably transferred to the lower modules within the module stack. In this case, the higher modules within the stack will eventually contain almost no AP. This will be detrimental to achieving uniform growth conditions within each module of the stack.

[0426] like Figure 45 As explained, the use of flow shaper 4408 results in a shorter refloat distance for the AP within the range of inlet swirl rates. These swirl rates promote AP washing, and a high inlet swirl rate allows for better AP washing. However, a high inlet flow rate can also lead to a long refloat distance. Flow shaper 4408 reduces the refloat distance without reducing the inlet swirl rate, thus optimizing the inlet swirl rate to promote AP washing, and at the system level, optimizing the overall LGM flow rate through the modification unit. Optimizing the LGM flow rate through the modification unit can increase the efficiency of the modification unit. For example, in a modification unit employing a UV cleaning process, optimizing the LGM flow rate can increase the speed and efficiency of debris and contaminant removal within the modification unit.

[0427] In some implementations, a shorter refloat distance produces a shorter horizontal jet and allows for a shorter module length, thereby reducing its footprint. Alternatively, a shorter refloat distance eliminates the need to add baffles to the module to control flow characteristics and ensures that the flow characteristic (AP) is floating when it reaches the valve (e.g., valve 3283, 3830, or 4230). In some implementations, the flow shaper may be employed in conjunction with one or more baffles to produce the desired flow characteristics and / or refloat distance. In some implementations, baffles may be used alone to produce the desired flow characteristics and / or refloat distance within the module.

[0428] Figure 46 A module 4600 with a flow shaper 4608 and two baffles 4604 is shown according to one embodiment for controlling the flow characteristics and refloat distance of the AP. Figure 46 Two inlet vortices are shown, forming adjacent to the outlet of nozzle 4610. These vortices force the AP downwards, and the flow shaper 4608 is used to reduce the AP's refloat distance. Figure 46 It is also shown how baffle 4604 is used to return the AP and LGM recirculation towards port 4610. This recirculation facilitates the washing of all APs within module 4600.

[0429] Figure 47A and 47B Aerial and cross-sectional views of module 4600 are shown, respectively. Module 4600 may include an inlet 4612 and an outlet 4614, both located at a proximal end 4613. Module 4600 may also include sidewalls 4602, baffles 4604, and a floor 4606 defining flow areas for LGMs and APs. The inflow of LGMs and / or APs into module 4600 causes swirling flow, which forces the APs downward toward the flow shaper 4608. The APs are then guided to a central channel 4650 defined by baffles 4604, which includes a proximal opening 4652 and a distal opening 4654. As LGMs and APs move through the central channel 4650, the APs are allowed to refloat as they approach the distal opening 4654. When the LGMs and APs reach the distal opening 4654, active APs have refloated to the top of the LGMs, while debris, contaminants, and inactive plants remain near the floor 4606. LGM and AP then circulate around the end of partition 4604 at the distal end 4615 and enter the external channel 4656 in their process of returning to the proximal end 4613.

[0430] A portion of the LGM adjacent to floor 4606 and any debris, contaminants, or inactive plants returning towards proximal end 4613 may exit module 4600 via outlet 4614. In contrast, APs floating on the LGM and a portion of the LGM are recirculated back into central channel 4650 due to suction generated by the swirling flow of LGMs and / or APs flowing into module 4600 via port 4610 at proximal opening 4652. In some embodiments, outlet 4614 may include a valve, such as static valve 3223. In some embodiments, distal end 4615 may include a valve, such as valve 3283 for collecting APs from module 4600. In some embodiments, the height of baffle 4604 may be equal to or greater than the height of the LGMs present within module 4600 during steady-state operation. In some embodiments, the height of baffle 4604 may be equal to or greater than the height of the LGM+APs present within module 4600 during steady-state operation.

[0431] Figure 48A and 48B A module 4800 according to one embodiment is shown. Module 4800 may include a sidewall 4802, a partition 4804, and a floor 4806. A proximal wall 4817 located at a proximal end 4813 of module 4800, together with the sidewall 4802, partition 4804, and floor 4806, defines a flow area within module 4800 for AP and LGM. Module 4800 may also include an inlet 4812 having a port 4810 located at the proximal end 4813 for supplying AP and / or LGM to module 4800. The proximal end 4813 may also include a biomass outlet 4814 for removing AP from module 4800, the biomass outlet 4814 having two outlets, namely a first biomass outlet 4814a and a second biomass outlet 4814b. Additionally, a solution outlet 4816 may be located adjacent to the sidewall 4802 and near the proximal end 4813 for removing LGM from module 4800. Module 4800 may also include one or more valve mechanisms 4830 located near outlets 4814 and 4816 for guiding AP to outlet 4814 and guiding LGM to outlet 4816. In some embodiments, valve mechanism 4830 may be located at a proximal end 4813 between partition 4804 and solution outlet 4816. Valve mechanism 4830 may include, but is not limited to, one or more valves discussed herein (e.g., valves 3223, 3283, 3830, 4230, 5030, etc.).

[0432] The partition 4804 may extend from the proximal end wall 4817 toward the distal end 4815. In some embodiments, the partition 4804 has a length between 200 mm and 250 mm. b In some embodiments, the partition 4804 has a length between 220 mm and 230 mm. bIn some embodiments, partition 4804 has a length of 228.50 mm (l). b In some implementations, module 4800 may have an overall internal length between 350 mm and 400 mm. m1 In some implementations, module 4800 may have an overall internal length of 373 mm (l). m1 In some embodiments, the length of the flow region defined by the proximal wall 4817 and the distal end 4815 (l) m2 The diameter can be between 300mm and 350mm. In some implementations, l m2 It is 328mm.

[0433] In some implementations, module 4800 may have an internal width (w) between 175 mm and 225 mm. m In some implementations, module 4800 may have an internal width of 200 mm. m In some implementations, the internal diameter (d) of the nozzle 4810 s ) and the internal diameter (d) of outlets 4814a, 4814b and 4816 o The diameter can be between 8mm and 12mm. In some implementations, d s and d o Equal to 10mm. In some implementations, d s and d o They are not equal. In some embodiments, the nozzle 4810 is oriented at an angle (θ) relative to the floor 4806. This angle θ can affect the swirling currents generated adjacent to the nozzle 4810, which promote the washing of the AP within the module 4800. In some embodiments, θ is between 30° and 60°. In some embodiments, θ is 45°.

[0434] In some implementations, module 4800 has a defined internal volume height (h) m The top wall 4818. In some implementations, h m Between 20mm and 30mm. In some implementations, h m It is 25mm. In some embodiments, the partition 4804 may have a diameter equal to h. m Height (h) b In some implementations, h b It can be less than h m .

[0435] Figure 49A and 49BA module 4900 according to one embodiment is shown. Module 4900 may include a sidewall 4902, two partitions 4904, and a floor 4906. A distal wall 4916 located at the distal end 4915 of module 4900, together with the sidewall 4902, partitions 4904, and floor 4906, defines a flow area within module 4900 for AP and LGM. Module 4900 may also include an inlet 4912 having a port 4910 located at a proximal end 4913 for supplying AP and / or LGM to module 4900. Proximal end 4913 may also include an outlet 4914 for removing AP and / or LGM from module 4900. Module 4900 may also include one or more valve mechanisms 4930 located near outlet 4914 for guiding LGM to outlet 4914. One or more valve mechanisms 4930 may also be located near distal wall 4916 for removing AP from module 4900. In some embodiments, one or more valve mechanisms 4930 may be located at or form part of a sidewall 4902 at the proximal end 4913. In some embodiments, one or more valve mechanisms 4930 may be located at or form part of a distal end wall 4916 at the distal end 4915. Valve mechanisms 4930 may include, but are not limited to, one or more valves discussed herein (e.g., valves 3223, 3283, 3830, 4230, 5030, etc.).

[0436] The partition 4904 may extend from the proximal end 4913 toward the distal end 4915 at an opposite angle relative to the distal wall 4916, thereby forming a central channel 4950 having a proximal opening 4952 and a distal opening 4954. The partition 4904, together with the sidewall 4902, may also define two external channels 4956. In some embodiments, the partition 4904 may have a length between 200 mm and 250 mm. b In some embodiments, the partition 4904 may have a length equal to 231.50 mm (l). b In some embodiments, the proximal opening 4952 may have a width between 30 mm and 35 mm. b1 In some implementations, w b1 It can be 32mm. The width of the proximal opening is 4952 (w) b1 The swirling flow generated by the inflow into the LGM and / or AP from the port 4910, together with the swirling flow, creates the suction required to draw the LGM and AP into the central channel 4950, thus creating continuous circulation of the AP and LGM within the module 4900. In some embodiments, the distal opening 4954 may have a width between 80 mm and 85 mm (w b2 In some implementations, w b2 It can be 82mm.

[0437] In some implementations, module 4900 may have an overall internal length between 350 mm and 400 mm. m1 In some implementations, module 4900 may have an overall internal length of 380 mm (l). m1 In some embodiments, the length of the flow region defined by the distal wall 4916 and the proximal wall 4913 (l) m2 The diameter can be between 300mm and 350mm. In some implementations, l m2 It can be 334mm. In some embodiments, module 4900 may have an internal width (w) between 175mm and 225mm. m In some implementations, module 4900 may have an internal width of 198 mm (w). m ).

[0438] In some embodiments, the internal diameter of the orifice 4910 may be changed from a first diameter (d1) to a second diameter (d2), where the second diameter (d2) is smaller than the first diameter (d1). In some embodiments, d1 may be between 6 mm and 8 mm. In some embodiments, d1 may be 7 mm. In some embodiments, d2 may be between 3 mm and 5 mm. In some embodiments, d2 may be 4 mm. In some embodiments, the internal diameter of the orifice 4910 may be constant (i.e., d1 = d2). In some embodiments, the center of the orifice 4910 may be located at a certain distance (h) above the floor 4906. s ( ) at. In some implementations, h s It can be between 8 and 10 mm. In some implementations, h s It can be 9mm. The diameter of the pipe opening (d1 and d2) and h s This can affect the swirling current generated adjacent to the orifice 4910, which promotes the washing of AP within the module 4900. In some embodiments, the internal diameter (d) of the orifice 4914... o The diameter can be between 8mm and 12mm. In some implementations, d o It can be 10mm.

[0439] In some implementations, module 4900 has a defined internal volume height (h) m The top wall 4918. In some implementations, h m Between 20mm and 30mm. In some implementations, h m It is 25mm. In some embodiments, the partition 4904 may have a diameter equal to h. m Height (h) b In some implementations, h b It can be less than l mIn some implementations, h b It can be between 12mm and 18mm. In some implementations, h b It can be 15mm.

[0440] While exemplary dimensions have been described above for the components of modules 4800 and 4900, the size and shape of modules 4800 and 4900 and the components may be adjusted and / or determined in proportion to the required floor space of the bioreactor and / or growth apparatus. For example, modules of relatively small size may be preferred for domestic bioreactors used to cultivate and collect a single family of aquat...

Claims

1. A method for measuring the plant floating volume (PFV) of an aquatic plant culture, the method comprising: Harvest a portion of the aforementioned aquatic plant culture; The portion of the aquatic plant culture is delivered into the containment chamber; Allowing a portion of the aquatic plant culture to suspend on the surface of the liquid within the containment chamber; The portion of the aquatic plant culture is transferred to the measuring tube; as well as Measure the plant floating volume (PFV) of the portion of the aquatic plant culture in the measuring tube.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the PFV is measured while the portion of the aquatic plant culture is held within the measuring tube.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the PFV is measured as the portion of the aquatic plant culture flows through the measuring tube.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the PFV is measured by measuring the absorbance and / or transmission and / or reflection of light from aquatic plants within the measuring tube.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the PFV is defined by the volume of the measuring tube.

6. The method according to claim 1, further comprising adjusting the growth conditions of the aquatic plant culture based on the PFV measurement.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the measuring portion of the aquatic plant culture is harvested from the bioreactor.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the measuring tube is connected to a bioreactor, the bioreactor comprising a growth unit for growing the aquatic plant culture.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the bioreactor includes a controller configured to adjust the growth conditions of the aquatic plant culture in the growth unit based on the PFV measurement.

10. A bioreactor, comprising: Growth units used for growing aquatic plant cultures; Harvesting unit for harvesting the aquatic plant culture; as well as A biomass quantification unit for performing online measurement of the plant floating volume (PFV) of the harvested portion of the aquatic plant culture, the biomass quantification unit comprising: An inlet pipe, in fluid communication with the harvesting unit, is used to supply the portion of the aquatic plant culture into the containment chamber; A measuring tube coupled to the containment chamber; A pump is configured to transfer said portion of the aquatic plant culture into the measuring tube; and A measuring device configured to measure the plant floating volume (PFV) of the portion of the aquatic plant culture in the measuring tube.

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