Control device, water circulation system and water temperature adjusting method

Abstract

The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a control device, a water circulation system, and a water temperature adjustment method, which can improve the energy efficiency related to the water temperature adjustment of a water tank for growing organisms. In order to solve this problem, this control device (100) controls the amount of water supplied to a main water tank (10) in a water circulation system (1) provided with a main water tank (10) in which a first living being is cultivated and the water temperature is controlled to a first required temperature zone, which is the suitable water temperature for the first living being, and a first sub-water tank (21) in which a second living being is cultivated. In the first sub-water tank (21), the water temperature is controlled to a second required temperature zone, which is a suitable water temperature for a second living being different from the first required temperature zone, the control device (100) is provided with: a water temperature information acquisition unit (112) that acquires water temperature information of the main water tank (10); and a water volume control unit (115) that, on the basis of the water temperature information, the first required temperature zone, and the second required temperature zone, controls the volume of water supplied from the first sub-water tank (21) to the main water tank (10) such that the water temperature of the main water tank (10) matches the first required temperature zone.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a control device, a water circulation system and a water temperature adjustment method. Background Art

[0002] In the past, there are known methods for cultivating organisms such as fish and shellfish in multiple water tanks. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a device for circulating water between multiple water tanks to raise multiple organisms. In addition, in recent years, in order to ensure that more people have access to an affordable, reliable, sustainable and advanced energy source, research and development of renewable energy that helps improve energy efficiency is being carried out.

[0003] [Prior Technical Literature]

[0004] (Patent Document)

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-113893 Summary of the invention

[0006] [Problems to be solved by the invention]

[0007] In the cultivation of plankton, fish and shellfish, etc., it is necessary to adjust the water temperature of the water tank to a range suitable for cultivation, that is, an appropriate water temperature, according to the species. The water temperature is adjusted by, for example, applying heat from a heater or the like to the water tank or the pipe, or by injecting cold water. In the present technology involving renewable energy, there is a problem of reducing the energy consumption involved in the water temperature adjustment.

[0008] The purpose of this case is to realize a control device, a water circulation system and a water temperature adjustment method, which can improve the energy efficiency involved in the water temperature adjustment of a water tank for cultivating organisms, so as to solve the above-mentioned problems.

[0009] [Technical means to solve the problem]

[0010] (1) A control device controls the amount of water supplied to a first water tank in a water circulation system, wherein the water circulation system comprises the first water tank for cultivating a first organism and wherein the water temperature is controlled to be within a suitable water temperature for the first organism, i.e., a first required temperature zone, and a second water tank for cultivating a second organism, wherein water can be supplied from the second water tank to the first water tank, wherein the water temperature in the second water tank is controlled to be within a suitable water temperature for the second organism, i.e., a second required temperature zone, which is different from the first required temperature zone, and wherein the control device comprises: a water temperature information acquisition unit for acquiring water temperature information related to the water temperature of the first water tank; and a water amount control unit for controlling the amount of water supplied from the second water tank to the first water tank based on the water temperature information acquired by the water temperature information acquisition unit, the first required temperature zone, and the second required temperature zone, so as to make the water temperature of the first water tank consistent with the first required temperature zone.

[0011] (2) A control device according to (1), wherein the water circulation system further comprises a third water tank for cultivating a third organism and wherein the water temperature is controlled at a suitable water temperature for the third organism, that is, a third required temperature zone, which is different from the first required temperature zone and the second required temperature zone, and water can be supplied from the third water tank to the first water tank. The water volume control unit controls the amount of water supplied from the second water tank to the first water tank and the amount of water supplied from the third water tank to the first water tank based on the water temperature information acquired by the water temperature information acquisition unit, the first required temperature zone, the second required temperature zone and the third required temperature zone, so as to make the water temperature of the first water tank consistent with the first required temperature zone.

[0012] (3) The control device according to (1) or (2), wherein the second organism is a nutrient source for the first organism, and the water volume control unit supplies water and the second organism from the second water tank to the first water tank.

[0013] (4) The control device according to (2), wherein the third organism is a nutrient source for the first organism, and the water volume control unit supplies water and the third organism from the third water tank to the first water tank.

[0014] (5) The water circulation system comprises: a first water tank for cultivating a first organism and being controlled at a water temperature suitable for the first organism, i.e., a first required temperature zone; a second water tank for cultivating a second organism and being controlled at a water temperature suitable for the second organism, i.e., a second required temperature zone, which is different from the first required temperature zone; a third water tank for cultivating a third organism and being controlled at a water temperature suitable for the third organism, i.e., a third required temperature zone, which is different from the first required temperature zone and the second required temperature zone; and a water supply pipeline capable of supplying water in the second water tank and the third water tank to the third water tank. a water tank; and, a control device for controlling the amount of water supplied to the aforementioned first water tank; the aforementioned control device comprises: a water temperature information acquisition unit for acquiring water temperature information related to the water temperature of the aforementioned first water tank; and, a water amount control unit for controlling the amount of water supplied from the aforementioned second water tank to the aforementioned first water tank and the amount of water supplied from the aforementioned third water tank to the aforementioned first water tank based on the aforementioned water temperature information acquired by the aforementioned water temperature information acquisition unit, the aforementioned first required temperature zone, the aforementioned second required temperature zone and the aforementioned third required temperature zone, so as to make the water temperature of the aforementioned first water tank consistent with the aforementioned first required temperature zone.

[0015] (6) The water circulation system according to (5), which constitutes a multi-layer water tank unit, wherein the second water tank and the third water tank are arranged to overlap each other in the vertical direction.

[0016] (7) A water temperature adjustment method adjusts the water temperature of a first water tank in a water circulation system, wherein the water circulation system comprises the first water tank for cultivating a first organism and whose water temperature is controlled at a suitable water temperature for the first organism, i.e., a first required temperature zone, and a second water tank for cultivating a second organism, and water can be supplied from the second water tank to the first water tank. In the second water tank, the water temperature is controlled at a suitable water temperature for the second organism, i.e., a second required temperature zone, which is different from the first required temperature zone. The water temperature adjustment method comprises: a water temperature information acquisition step for acquiring water temperature information related to the water temperature of the first water tank; and a water temperature control step for controlling the amount of water supplied from the second water tank to the first water tank based on the water temperature information acquired in the water temperature information acquisition step, the first required temperature zone, and the second required temperature zone, so that the water temperature of the first water tank is consistent with the first required temperature zone.

[0017] (Effects of the Invention)

[0018] According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the energy efficiency involved in adjusting the water temperature of a water tank for cultivating organisms. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a water circulation system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the hardware structure of a control device that performs temperature adjustment processing in a water circulation system according to one embodiment of the present invention and the functional structure of the control device.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a flowchart showing an example of a temperature adjustment process executed by a control device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 4 This is a flowchart showing an example of a temperature adjustment process executed by a control device according to one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Hereinafter, a water circulation system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 It is a diagram showing the structure of the water circulation system 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0024] The water circulation system 1 of this embodiment is a system for cultivating organisms such as fish and shellfish while circulating water. In this embodiment, a system using aquaponics technology is described as an example, wherein fish and shellfish are cultivated and plants are grown while circulating water.

[0025] Water circulation system 1 Figure 1As shown, it is equipped with a hydroponic cultivation device 30, a main water tank (first water tank) 10, a secondary water tank unit (water tank unit) 20, a pump 40, a cold water supply unit 50, a barrier filter 61, a microbial decomposition tank 62, heat dissipation fins 63, an air recovery device 70, a fermentation tank 80 and a control device 100.

[0026] In addition, the water circulation system 1 includes a first circulation line L1, a second circulation line L2, a third circulation line L3, a fourth circulation line L4, a first branch line L5, a second branch line L6, a first cold water supply line L7, a second cold water supply line L8, a main water temperature adjustment line (water supply line) L10, a secondary water temperature adjustment line L20, a first carbon dioxide supply line L31, a second carbon dioxide supply line L32, and an oxygen supply line L33 as pipelines for circulating water, etc. In addition, in this specification, "pipeline" is a general term for pipelines such as flow paths, paths, and pipelines that can circulate fluids.

[0027] The hydroponic cultivation device 30 is a device for cultivating plants using water. The hydroponic cultivation device 30 has a cultivation tank (not shown) for storing water for cultivating plants. A temperature sensor T1 for detecting the water temperature is arranged in the cultivation tank of the hydroponic cultivation device 30. The water in the cultivation tank has a tendency to rise due to the heat of sunlight, etc. The water in the cultivation tank of the hydroponic cultivation device 30 is supplied to the main water tank 10 via the first circulation line L1.

[0028] The first circulation line L1 is a pipe that connects the hydroponic cultivation device 30 and the main water tank 10. A pH sensor P1 that detects the pH of water discharged from the hydroponic cultivation device 30 is disposed in the first circulation line L1.

[0029] The main water tank 10 is a tank for storing water for cultivating the first organism as the organism to be cultivated. The main water tank 10 stores water supplied from the hydroponic cultivation device 30, etc. The main water tank 10 is provided with a temperature sensor T2 for detecting the water temperature.

[0030] The first organism is not particularly limited as long as it is an aquatic organism such as fish or shellfish that can be cultured. The first organism in this embodiment is a fish. The range of water temperature suitable for the culture of aquatic organisms, that is, the suitable water temperature, is different depending on the type of aquatic organism. In this specification, the suitable water temperature of the first organism is referred to as the first required temperature zone.

[0031] Based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor T2, the water temperature of the main water tank 10 is controlled in a first required temperature zone by the heat from the heater (not shown) or the input of cold water from the cold water supply unit 50, the water temperature adjustment process described later, etc., so as to cultivate the first organism. In addition, the main water tank 10 is configured in such a way that its water surface will be irradiated by sunlight, and is configured so that the heat from the sunlight can also be used to increase the water temperature. The first required temperature zone of the present embodiment is around 20°C (for example, 19°C to 21°C). The water in the main water tank 10 is supplied to the barrier filter 61 via the second circulation line L2. In addition, the main water tank 10 is configured in such a way that its water surface will be irradiated by sunlight. Thus, the heat from the sunlight can also be used to increase the water temperature.

[0032] The second circulation line L2 is a pipe connecting the main water tank 10 and the barrier filter 61. A pH sensor P2 for detecting the pH of water discharged from the main water tank 10 is disposed in the second circulation line L2.

[0033] The barrier filter 61 is a filter that filters excrement and leftover bait of the first organisms, other plankton, etc. contained in the water supplied from the main water tank 10. The water filtered by the barrier filter 61 is supplied to the microbial decomposition tank 62 via the third circulation line L3.

[0034] The microbial decomposition tank 62 is a device that decomposes organic matter such as excrement of the first organism and leftover food contained in the water supplied from the barrier filter 61 by microorganisms. In the microbial decomposition tank 62, the excrement of the first organism and leftover food are decomposed into nutrients that can be absorbed by plants.

[0035] The water in the microbial decomposition tank 62 is supplied to the hydroponic cultivation device 30 via the fourth circulation line L4. That is, the water discharged from the hydroponic cultivation device 30 is returned to the hydroponic cultivation device 30 again as water containing nutrients via the main water tank 10 or the like.

[0036] The fourth circulation line L4 is a pipe connecting the microbial decomposition tank 62 and the hydroponic cultivation device 30. A first branch line L5 and a second branch line L6 are branched from the fourth circulation line L4.

[0037] The first branch line L5 is a pipe branched from the fourth circulation line L4 and connected to the sub-water tank unit 20. The first branch line L5 is provided with a heat dissipation fin 63 and a flow rate regulating valve V1.

[0038] The heat dissipation fins 63 dissipate heat of the water flowing through the first branch line L5. The water flowing through the first branch line L5 is cooled by the heat dissipation fins 63 from 20°C to 24°C to 15°C to 17°C, for example.

[0039] The flow regulating valve V1 is composed of a valve with adjustable opening, and regulates the flow rate of water flowing through the first branch line L5. When the flow regulating valve V1 is opened, water discharged from the microbial decomposition tank 62 is supplied to the sub-water tank unit 20 through the first branch line L5.

[0040] The second branch line L6 is a pipe branched from the fourth circulation line L4 and connected to the subsidiary water temperature adjustment line L20. A flow rate adjustment valve V2 is disposed on the second branch line L6.

[0041] The flow regulating valve V2 is composed of a valve with adjustable opening, and adjusts the flow rate of water flowing through the second branch line L6 . The openings of the flow regulating valves V1 and V2 are controlled by the control device 100 .

[0042] The pump 40 is disposed in the first circulation line L1, and is a pump that delivers water in the first circulation line L1 to the main water tank 10. By driving the pump 40, water circulates between the main water tank 10 and the hydroponic cultivation device 30 in a direction from the main water tank 10 toward the barrier filter 61. In addition, a flow sensor Q1 for detecting the flow rate of water is disposed between the pump 40 and the main water tank 10 on the first circulation line L1. The driving of the pump 40 is controlled by the control device 100 based on the flow rate detected by the flow sensor Q1.

[0043] The cold water supply unit 50 is a source of cold water. The temperature of the cold water is lower than at least the first required temperature range and the second required temperature range described later, and is about 10° C. in this embodiment. The cold water supply unit 50 is connected to a first cold water supply line L7 and a second cold water supply line L8 .

[0044] The first cold water supply line L7 is a pipe connected to the cold water supply unit 50 at one end and connected to the first circulation line L1 between the pump 40 and the flow sensor Q1 at the other end. A flow regulating valve V3 is arranged on the first cold water supply line L7. The flow regulating valve V3 is composed of a valve with an adjustable opening, etc., and adjusts the flow rate of water flowing in the first cold water supply line L7. By opening the flow regulating valve V3, cold water can be merged into the first circulation line L1, and the water temperature of the water injected into the main water tank 10 from the first circulation line L1 can be reduced.

[0045] The second cold water supply line L8 is a pipe having one end connected to the cold water supply unit 50 and the other end connected to a position in the first branch line L5 closer to the auxiliary water tank unit 20 than the heat sink 63. A flow regulating valve V4 is arranged on the second cold water supply line L8. The flow regulating valve V4 is composed of a valve with an adjustable opening, etc., and adjusts the flow of water flowing in the second cold water supply line L8. By opening the valve of the flow regulating valve V4, the cold water can be merged into the first branch line L5, and the water temperature of the water in the first auxiliary water tank 21 described later, which is fed from the first branch line L5 to the auxiliary water tank unit 20, can be reduced. In addition, the opening of the flow regulating valve V3 and the flow regulating valve V4 is controlled by the control device 100.

[0046] The auxiliary water tank unit 20 includes a plurality of water tanks for cultivating organisms having a different suitable water temperature from the first organism, namely, a first auxiliary water tank (second water tank) 21, a second auxiliary water tank (third water tank) 22, and a third auxiliary water tank (third water tank) 23. In this embodiment, different types of organisms are cultivated in the plurality of water tanks of the auxiliary water tank unit 20. Figure 1 As shown, the plurality of water tanks of the auxiliary water tank unit 20 are arranged in an overlapping manner in the vertical direction. Specifically, the third auxiliary water tank 23, the second auxiliary water tank 22, and the first auxiliary water tank 21 are arranged in an overlapping manner from bottom to top. That is, the second auxiliary water tank 22 is arranged above the third auxiliary water tank 23 and below the first auxiliary water tank 21.

[0047] The first auxiliary water tank 21 is a tank for cultivating an organism having a different suitable water temperature from the first organism, that is, a second organism. The second organism is an organism whose suitable water temperature, that is, a second required temperature zone, is lower than the first required temperature zone. The second organism in this embodiment is phytoplankton. The first auxiliary water tank 21 is arranged at the top of the auxiliary water tank unit 20 in a manner that it is irradiated with sunlight required for the growth of phytoplankton, and is configured so that the heat from the sunlight can be used to increase the water temperature.

[0048] The first sub-water tank 21 stores water supplied from the first branch line L5 and the like. The first sub-water tank 21 is provided with a temperature sensor T3 for detecting the water temperature. Based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor T3, the water temperature of the first sub-water tank 21 is controlled to a second required temperature range by heat from a heater (not shown) or a water temperature adjustment process described later, so as to cultivate the second organism. The second required temperature range of the present embodiment is 15°C to 17°C.

[0049] The second auxiliary water tank 22 is a tank for cultivating an organism having a different suitable water temperature from the first organism and the second organism, that is, a third organism. The third organism is an organism having a third required temperature zone higher than the first required temperature zone. The third organism in this embodiment is zooplankton.

[0050] The second sub-water tank 22 stores water supplied from the first sub-water tank 21. A temperature sensor T4 is provided in the second sub-water tank 22 to detect the water temperature. Based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor T4, the water temperature of the second sub-water tank 22 is controlled to a third required temperature range by heat from a heater (not shown) or a water temperature adjustment process described later, so as to cultivate a third organism. The third required temperature range of the present embodiment is 20°C to 28°C.

[0051] The third auxiliary water tank 23 is a tank for cultivating an organism different from the first organism, the second organism, and the third organism, that is, a fourth organism. In this embodiment, the suitable water temperature of the fourth organism is the same as that of the third organism, which is the third required temperature zone of 20°C to 28°C. The fourth organism in this embodiment is a small fish. In addition, in the first auxiliary water tank 21, the second auxiliary water tank 22, and the third auxiliary water tank 23, the heat generated by the activities of the organisms cultivated in each water tank is also applied to the water.

[0052] The third sub-water tank 23 stores water supplied from the second sub-water tank 22. The third sub-water tank 23 is provided with a temperature sensor T5 for detecting the water temperature. Based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor T5, the water temperature of the third sub-water tank 23 is controlled to be within the third required temperature zone by heat from a heater (not shown) or a water temperature adjustment process described later, so as to cultivate the fourth organism. The first required temperature zone, the second required temperature zone, and the third required temperature zone are different temperature zones. In addition, in this specification, the so-called different temperature zones also include the case where the lower limit or upper limit of the temperature range is different but a part of the temperature range overlaps.

[0053] The sub-water tank unit 20 is configured to circulate water in the tank through the main water temperature adjustment line L10 and the sub-water temperature adjustment line L20. The main water temperature adjustment line L10 and the sub-water temperature adjustment line L20 will be described below.

[0054] The air recovery device 70 is a device that recovers external air and separates the recovered air into carbon dioxide and other gases including oxygen. The air recovery device 70 is connected to a first carbon dioxide supply line L31, a second carbon dioxide supply line L32, and an oxygen supply line L33.

[0055] The first carbon dioxide supply line L31 is a pipe having one end connected to the air recovery device 70 and the other end connected to the main water tank 10. A flow control valve V12 is arranged on the first carbon dioxide supply line L31. The flow control valve V12 is composed of a valve with an adjustable opening, etc., and adjusts the flow rate of carbon dioxide flowing in the first carbon dioxide supply line L31. When the flow control valve V12 is opened, carbon dioxide is supplied to the water stored in the main water tank 10, and the pH of the water decreases.

[0056] The second carbon dioxide supply line L32 is a pipe having one end connected to the air recovery device 70 and the other end connected to the first sub-water tank 21. A flow control valve V13 is arranged on the second carbon dioxide supply line L32. The flow control valve V13 is composed of a valve with an adjustable opening, etc., and adjusts the flow rate of carbon dioxide flowing in the second carbon dioxide supply line L32. When the flow control valve V13 is opened, carbon dioxide is supplied to the water stored in the first sub-water tank 21, and the amount of carbon dioxide in the water increases.

[0057] The oxygen supply line L33 is a pipe having one end connected to the air recovery device 70 and the other end connected to the fermentation tank 80. A flow regulating valve V14 is arranged on the oxygen supply line L33. The flow regulating valve V14 is composed of a valve with an adjustable opening, etc., and adjusts the flow rate of oxygen flowing in the oxygen supply line L33. When the valve of the flow regulating valve V14 is opened, oxygen is supplied to the fermentation tank 80. In addition, the openings of the flow regulating valves V12, V13, and V14 are controlled by the control device 100.

[0058] The fermentation tank 80 is a tank in which aerobic microorganisms and organic matter to be fermented exist and the organic matter is aerobically fermented by the action of aerobic microorganisms. In the fermentation tank 80, supply of oxygen from the oxygen supply line L33 promotes aerobic fermentation and the temperature of the organic matter to be fermented rises.

[0059] The main water temperature regulating line L10 will be described. The main water temperature regulating line L10 includes a first main water temperature regulating line L11, a second main water temperature regulating line L12, a third main water temperature regulating line L13, and a bypass line L14.

[0060] The first main water temperature adjustment line L11 is a pipe connecting the first sub-water tank 21 and the main water tank 10 and capable of supplying water in the first sub-water tank 21 to the main water tank 10. The first main water temperature adjustment line L11 is provided with a filter F for filtering water and a flow rate adjustment valve V5.

[0061] The flow regulating valve V5 is composed of a valve with adjustable opening, etc., and regulates the flow rate of water flowing to the first main water temperature regulating pipeline L11. The flow regulating valve V5 is arranged in the first main water temperature regulating pipeline L11 at a position closer to the main water tank 10 than the filter F. When the flow regulating valve V5 is opened, water whose water temperature is adjusted to the second required temperature range is supplied from the first sub-water tank 21 to the main water tank 10, and the water temperature of the main water tank 10 can be lowered.

[0062] In the first main water temperature adjustment line L11, there is a pipe that bypasses the filter F, that is, a detour line (not shown in the figure). One end of the detour line in the first main water temperature adjustment line L11 is connected between the first sub-water tank 21 and the filter F, and the other end is connected between the filter F and the flow control valve V5. At one end of the detour line, a detour valve (not shown in the figure) controlled by the control device 100 is arranged. By opening the detour valve, a path for supplying water from the first sub-water tank 21 to the first water tank 10 can be formed to bypass the filter F, so that the phytoplankton in the first sub-water tank 21, that is, the second organism, can be put into the first water tank 10.

[0063] The second main water temperature adjustment line L12 is branched from the first main water temperature adjustment line L11 and connected to the second sub-water tank 22, and can supply water in the second sub-water tank 22 to the pipe in the main water tank 10. The second main water temperature adjustment line L12 branches from the first main water temperature adjustment line L11 at a position closer to the main water tank 10 than the flow control valve V5. A filter F for filtering water and a flow control valve V6 are arranged on the second main water temperature adjustment line L12.

[0064] The flow regulating valve V6 is composed of a valve with adjustable opening, etc., and regulates the flow rate of water flowing to the second main water temperature regulating pipeline L12. The flow regulating valve V6 is arranged in the second main water temperature regulating pipeline L12 at a position closer to the main water tank 10 than the filter F. When the flow regulating valve V6 is opened, water whose water temperature is adjusted to the third required temperature range is supplied from the second sub-water tank 22 to the main water tank 10, and the water temperature of the main water tank 10 can be increased.

[0065] In the second main water temperature adjustment pipeline L12, there is a pipe that bypasses the filter F, that is, a detour pipeline (not shown in the figure). One end of the detour pipeline in the second main water temperature adjustment pipeline L12 is connected between the second sub-water tank 22 and the filter F, and the other end is connected between the filter F and the flow control valve V6. At one end of the detour pipeline, a detour valve (not shown in the figure) controlled by the control device 100 is arranged. By opening the detour valve, a path for supplying water from the second sub-water tank 22 to the first water tank 10 can be formed to bypass the filter F, so the zooplankton, that is, the third organism in the second sub-water tank 22 can be put into the first water tank 10.

[0066] The third main water temperature adjustment line L13 is branched from the second main water temperature adjustment line L12 and connected to the third sub-water tank 23, and can supply water in the third sub-water tank 23 to the piping in the main water tank 10. The third main water temperature adjustment line L13 branches from the second main water temperature adjustment line L12 at a position closer to the main water tank 10 than the flow rate adjustment valve V6. The second main water temperature adjustment line L12 is provided with a filter F and a flow rate adjustment valve V7.

[0067] The flow regulating valve V7 is composed of a valve with adjustable opening, etc., and regulates the flow rate of water flowing to the third main water temperature regulating pipeline L13. The flow regulating valve V7 is arranged in the third main water temperature regulating pipeline L13 at a position closer to the main water tank 10 than the filter F. When the flow regulating valve V7 is opened, water whose water temperature is adjusted to the third required temperature range is supplied from the third sub-water tank 23 to the main water tank 10, and the water temperature of the main water tank 10 can be increased.

[0068] In the third main water temperature adjustment line L13, there is a pipe that bypasses the filter F, that is, a detour line (not shown). One end of the detour line in the third main water temperature adjustment line L13 is connected between the third sub-water tank 23 and the filter F, and the other end is connected between the filter F and the flow control valve V7. At one end of the detour line, a detour valve (not shown) controlled by the control device 100 is arranged. By opening the detour valve, a path for supplying water from the third sub-water tank 23 to the first water tank 10 can be formed to bypass the filter F, so the small fish in the third sub-water tank 23, that is, the fourth organism, can be introduced into the first water tank 10.

[0069] The bypass line L14 is a pipe branching from the second main water temperature adjustment line L12 and connected to the second circulation line L2. Specifically, the bypass line L14 branches from the second main water temperature adjustment line L12 closer to the main water tank 10 than the location where the third main water temperature adjustment line L13 branches.

[0070] A flow regulating valve V8 is disposed on the bypass line L14, and the flow regulating valve V8 is composed of a valve with adjustable opening, etc. By opening the valve of the flow regulating valve V8, the water flowing to the second main water temperature regulating line L12 and the third main water temperature regulating line L13 can be discharged to the second circulation line L12 without being put into the main water tank 10.

[0071] The sub-water temperature regulating line L20 will be described. The sub-water temperature regulating line L20 includes a first sub-water temperature regulating line L21 and a second sub-water temperature regulating line L22.

[0072] The first sub-water temperature adjustment line L21 is a pipe connecting the first sub-water tank 21 and the second sub-water tank 22, and can supply water in the first sub-water tank 21 to the second sub-water tank 22. The first sub-water temperature adjustment line L21 passes through the fermentation tank 80 from the first sub-water tank 21 and is connected to the second sub-water tank 22. The pipe of the first sub-water temperature adjustment line L21 is heated by the heat in the fermentation tank 80, thereby increasing the temperature of the water flowing in the first sub-water temperature adjustment line L21.

[0073] The first sub-water temperature adjustment line L21 is provided with a filter F for filtering water, a flow control valve V9, and a flow control valve V10. In addition, a second branch line L6 is connected between the flow control valve V9 and the fermentation tank 80 in the first sub-water temperature adjustment line L21.

[0074] The flow regulating valve V9 and the flow regulating valve V10 are composed of valves with adjustable openings, etc., and adjust the amount of water flowing into the first auxiliary water temperature regulating line L21. The flow regulating valve V9 is arranged in the first auxiliary water temperature regulating line L21 at a position downstream of the filter F (on the fermentation tank 80 side).

[0075] In the first auxiliary water temperature adjustment pipeline L21, there is a pipe that bypasses the filter F, that is, a detour pipeline (not shown in the figure). One end of the detour pipeline in the first auxiliary water temperature adjustment pipeline L21 is connected between the first auxiliary water tank 21 and the filter F, and the other end is connected between the filter F and the flow control valve V9. At one end of the detour pipeline, a detour valve (not shown in the figure) controlled by the control device 100 is arranged. By opening the detour valve, a path for supplying water from the first auxiliary water tank 21 to the second auxiliary water tank 22 can be formed to bypass the filter F, so that the phytoplankton in the first auxiliary water tank 21, that is, the second organism, can be put into the second auxiliary water tank 22.

[0076] The second sub-water temperature adjustment line L22 is a pipe connecting the second sub-water tank 22 and the third sub-water tank 23 and can supply water in the second sub-water tank 22 to the third sub-water tank 23. A filter F for filtering water and a flow rate adjustment valve V11 are arranged on the second sub-water temperature adjustment line L22.

[0077] The flow regulating valve V11 is composed of a valve with adjustable opening, etc., and regulates the amount of water flowing into the second auxiliary water temperature regulating pipeline L22. The flow regulating valve V11 is arranged in the second auxiliary water temperature regulating pipeline L22 at a position downstream (on the third auxiliary water tank 23 side) of the filter F. When the valve of the flow regulating valve V11 is opened, water can be supplied from the second auxiliary water tank 22 to the third auxiliary water tank 23.

[0078] The control device 100 controls the pump 40, the flow regulating valves V1 to V14, etc. based on information detected by various sensors such as the flow sensor Q1, the temperature sensors T1 to T6, and the pH sensors P1 and P2, thereby controlling the water temperature of the main water tank 10 and the sub-water tank unit 20. The details of the control performed by the control device 100 will be described below.

[0079] Next, the hardware configuration of the control device 100 that executes the water temperature adjustment process of the main water tank 10 will be described. Figure 21 is a block diagram showing the hardware structure of the control device 100 that performs the water temperature adjustment process in the water circulation system 1 and the functional structure of the control device 100. Figure 2 As shown, the control device 100 includes a communication unit (not shown), a storage unit 120 , and a processing unit 110 .

[0080] The communication unit controls communication with other devices such as temperature sensors T1 to T6, pH sensors P1 and P2, and flow sensor Q1, etc. The communication unit transmits and receives detection signals or control signals and the like with these devices.

[0081] The storage unit 120 is a storage area for various programs and various data for the hardware group to function as the control device 100, and can be composed of a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a flash memory, a semiconductor drive (SSD) or a hardware (HDD). Specifically, the storage unit 120 stores a program for causing the processing unit 110 to execute each function of the present embodiment, a control program for the water temperature adjustment process, a required flow rate of the first organism, a required pH, a first required temperature zone, a second required temperature zone, a third required temperature zone, and a predetermined threshold value or range that is higher than the first required temperature zone and serves as a criterion for supplying cold water to the main water tank 10. In addition, these reference values ​​or ranges can be appropriately set by the user according to the type of organism cultivated in the water circulation system 1.

[0082] The processing unit 110 is a computing device composed of a processor, and reads various programs and data from the storage unit 120 to perform predetermined processing. The processor is, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessing unit (MPU), a system on a chip (SoC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a vision processing unit (VPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (PLD), or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0083] The processing unit 110 is as follows Figure 2As shown, the water flow information acquisition unit 111 , the water temperature information acquisition unit 112 , the temperature information acquisition unit 113 , the pH information acquisition unit 114 , the water volume control unit 115 , and the pH adjustment unit 116 are provided.

[0084] The flow rate information acquisition unit 111 performs a process of acquiring flow rate information related to the flow rate detected by the flow rate sensor Q1. In the present embodiment, the flow rate information acquisition unit 111 acquires the flow rate of water introduced from the first circulation line L1 to the main water tank 10.

[0085] The water temperature information acquisition unit 112 acquires water temperature information related to the water temperature detected by the temperature sensors T1 to T5. Examples of the water temperature information include the water temperature of the cultivation tank of the hydroponic cultivation device 30, the water temperature of the main water tank 10, the water temperature of the first sub-water tank 21, the water temperature of the second sub-water tank 22, and the water temperature of the third sub-water tank 23. In the water temperature adjustment process of the main water tank 10, the water temperature of the main water tank 10 detected by the temperature sensor T2 is used as the water temperature information.

[0086] The temperature information acquisition unit 113 acquires temperature information on the temperature in the fermentation tank 80 detected by the temperature sensor T6.

[0087] The pH information acquisition unit 114 performs the following processing: acquiring pH information related to the pH detected by the pH sensors P1 and P2. Examples of the pH information include the pH of water discharged from the hydroponic cultivation device 30 detected by the pH sensor P1 and the pH of water discharged from the main water tank 10 detected by the pH sensor P2.

[0088] The water flow controller 115 controls the flow rate of water circulating in the water circulation system 1 based on the flow rate information acquired by the flow rate information acquirer 111 and the water temperature information acquired by the water temperature information acquirer 112. The water flow controller 115 includes a main water flow controller 117 and a sub water flow controller 118.

[0089] The main water volume control unit 117 controls the amount of water supplied from the sub-water tank unit 20 to the main water tank 10 based on the water temperature information of the main water tank 10 acquired by the water temperature information acquisition unit 112, and the first required temperature zone, the second required temperature zone, and the third required temperature zone stored in the storage unit 120, so that the water temperature of the main water tank 10 is consistent with the first required temperature zone. Specifically, the main water volume control unit 117 controls the opening of the flow regulating valve V5 to control the amount of water supplied from the first sub-water tank 21 to the main water tank 10. The main water volume control unit 117 controls the opening of the flow regulating valve V6 to control the amount of water supplied from the second sub-water tank 22 to the main water tank 10. In addition, the main water volume control unit 117 controls the opening of the flow regulating valve V7 to control the amount of water supplied from the third sub-water tank 23 to the main water tank 10.

[0090] The main water volume control unit 117 may control the water volume supplied from the sub-water tank unit 20 to the main water tank 10, for example, based on the comparison result of the water temperature information of the main water tank 10 acquired by the water temperature information acquisition unit 112 with the first required temperature zone, the second required temperature zone, and the third required temperature zone. Specifically, the main water volume control unit 117 may control the water volume supplied from the first sub-water tank 21 to the main water tank 10 by controlling the opening of the flow regulating valve V5 when the water temperature of the main water tank 10 is lower than the lower limit of the first required temperature zone. In addition, the main water volume control unit 117 may control the water volume supplied from the second sub-water tank 22 to the main water tank 10 by controlling the opening of the flow regulating valve V6 when the water temperature of the main water tank 10 is lower than the lower limit of the first required temperature zone, or may control the water volume supplied from the third sub-water tank 23 to the main water tank 10 by controlling the opening of the flow regulating valve V7. On the contrary, the main water volume control unit 117 can also control the amount of water supplied from the first sub-water tank 21 to the main water tank 10 by closing the flow regulating valve V6 and the flow regulating valve V7 and controlling the opening of the flow regulating valve V5 when the water temperature of the main water tank 10 is higher than the upper limit of the first required temperature zone.

[0091] The main water volume control unit 117 opens all the flow regulating valves V5, V6, and V7, and supplies water from all the first sub-water tank 21, the second sub-water tank 22, and the third sub-water tank 23 to the main water tank 10 while controlling their openings. At this time, the main water volume control unit 117 may open the flow regulating valve V8, and discharge the water supplied from the second sub-water tank 22 and the third sub-water tank 23 to the second circulation line L2 downstream of the main water tank 10 while controlling the openings. In this way, the amount of water supplied from the second sub-water tank 22 and the third sub-water tank 23 to the main water tank 10 can be adjusted.

[0092] The main water volume control unit 117 may open the flow regulating valve V3 to supply cold water to the main water tank 10 when the water temperature information of the main water tank 10 exceeds a predetermined threshold value higher than the upper limit of the first required temperature range.

[0093] In addition, the main water volume control unit 117 may open the bypass valve provided on the first main water temperature adjustment line L11 to supply the water in the first sub-water tank 21 to the main water tank 10 without passing through the filter F. Thus, the phytoplankton, which is the second organism, which is the nutrient source of the first organism, may be supplied to the main water tank 10 together with the water. Similarly, the main water volume control unit 117 may open the bypass valve provided on the second main water temperature adjustment line L12 and the bypass valve provided on the third main water temperature adjustment line L13 to supply the third organism and the fourth organism, which are the nutrient sources of the first organism, to the main water tank 10 together with the water.

[0094] The sub-water volume control unit 118 controls the volume of water supplied to the sub-water tank unit 20 or the volume of water circulated in the sub-water tank unit 20 based on the water temperature information of the sub-water tank unit 20 acquired by the water temperature information acquisition unit 112 .

[0095] The auxiliary water volume control unit 118 may also adjust the opening of the flow regulating valve V1 and the flow regulating valve V4, for example, based on the comparison result of the water temperature information of the first auxiliary water tank 21 and the second required temperature zone, to control the water volume and water temperature of the water supplied through the first branch pipeline L5. Specifically, the auxiliary water volume control unit 118 may also control in a manner that increases the supply amount of water having a water temperature lower than the upper limit of the second required temperature zone from the first branch pipeline L5 to the first auxiliary water tank 21 when the water temperature of the first auxiliary water tank 21 is higher than the upper limit of the second required temperature zone. In addition, the auxiliary water volume control unit 118 may also control in a manner that increases the supply amount of water having a water temperature higher than the lower limit of the second required temperature zone from the first branch pipeline L5 to the first auxiliary water tank 21 when the water temperature of the first auxiliary water tank 21 is lower than the lower limit of the second required temperature zone.

[0096] The auxiliary water volume control unit 118 can also control the water volume and water temperature of the water supplied through the first auxiliary water temperature adjustment line L21 by adjusting the opening of the flow control valve V9, the flow control valve V10, and the flow control valve V14, based on the comparison result of the water temperature information of the second auxiliary water tank 22 and the third required temperature zone, for example. The temperature of the water supplied to the second auxiliary water tank 22 through the first auxiliary water temperature adjustment line L21 can be controlled by adjusting the opening of the flow control valve V14. For example, when the opening of the flow control valve V14 is increased, the amount of oxygen supplied to the fermentation tank 80 increases, and the temperature inside the fermentation tank 80 through which the first auxiliary water temperature adjustment line L21 passes increases, so the water temperature can be increased.

[0097] In addition, the auxiliary water volume control unit 118 may open the bypass valve provided on the first auxiliary water temperature adjustment line L21 to supply the water in the first auxiliary water tank 21 to the second auxiliary water tank 22 without passing through the filter F. Thus, the phytoplankton, which is the second organism, which is the nutrient source of the third organism, can be supplied to the second auxiliary water tank 22 together with the water. Similarly, the bypass valve provided on the second auxiliary water temperature adjustment line L22 may be opened to supply the water in the second auxiliary water tank 22 to the third auxiliary water tank 23 without passing through the filter F. Thus, the zooplankton, which is the third organism, which is the nutrient source of the fourth organism, can be supplied to the third auxiliary water tank 23 together with the water.

[0098] The pH adjusting unit 116 may also control the opening of the flow regulating valve V12 based on the pH information acquired by the pH information acquiring unit 114 and the required pH of the first organism, and adjust the flow rate of carbon dioxide supplied from the air recovery device 70 to the main water tank 10 via the first carbon dioxide supply line L31. For example, the pH adjusting unit 116 may also control the flow rate of carbon dioxide supplied to the main water tank 10 to increase when the pH of the main water tank 10 is higher than the required pH.

[0099] Next, refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , an example of the water temperature adjustment process executed by the processing unit 110 of the control device 100 is described. Figure 3 and Figure 4 1 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the water temperature adjustment process of the main water tank 10 executed by the processing unit 110 of the control device 100 of the water circulation system 1 .

[0100] like Figure 3 As shown, in step S11, the water volume control unit 115 controls the flow rate based on the flow rate information (hereinafter referred to as flow rate Q) detected by the flow sensor Q1 and acquired by the flow rate information acquisition unit 111 and the required flow rate of the first organism stored in the storage unit 120. Specifically, the water volume control unit 115 performs feedback control based on the flow rate Q and the required flow rate to make the flow rate Q consistent with the required flow rate. In this way, the water can be circulated from the main water tank 10 to the barrier filter 61, the microbial decomposition tank 62, and the hydroponic cultivation device 30, and the water can be introduced into the main water tank 10 at the flow rate of the required flow rate.

[0101] In step S12, the water amount control unit 115 opens the flow rate regulating valve V1 at the minimum opening degree. As a result, water starts to be supplied to the first sub-water tank 21 through the first branch line L5.

[0102] In step S13, the water volume control unit 115 determines whether the water temperature of the main water tank 10 (hereinafter referred to as water temperature T) acquired by the water temperature information acquisition unit 112 is less than the lower limit of the first required temperature zone. When the water volume control unit 115 determines that the water temperature T is less than the lower limit of the first required temperature zone (YES in step S13), the process moves to step S14. On the other hand, when the water volume control unit 115 determines that the water temperature T is greater than the lower limit of the first required temperature zone (NO in step S13), the process moves to step S21. The process of step S21 will be described below.

[0103] In step S14 , the water amount control unit 115 opens the flow regulating valve V7 and performs feedback control so that the water temperature T becomes equal to the first required temperature range while adjusting the opening degree of the flow regulating valve V7 .

[0104] In step S15, the water volume control unit 115 determines whether the water temperature T exceeds the lower limit of the first required temperature range. When the water volume control unit 115 determines that the water temperature T exceeds the lower limit of the first required temperature range (YES in step S15), the temperature adjustment process of the main water tank 10 is terminated. On the other hand, when the water volume control unit 115 determines that the water temperature T is below the lower limit of the first required temperature range (NO in step S15), the process moves to step S16.

[0105] In step S16 , the water amount control unit 115 maximizes the opening degree of the flow rate regulating valve V7 .

[0106] In step S17 , the water amount control unit 115 opens the flow regulating valve V6 and performs feedback control so that the water temperature T becomes equal to the first required temperature range while adjusting the opening degree of the flow regulating valve V6 .

[0107] In step S18, the water volume control unit 115 determines whether the water temperature T exceeds the lower limit of the first required temperature zone. When the water volume control unit 115 determines that the water temperature T exceeds the lower limit of the first required temperature zone (YES in step S18), the process moves to step S19. In step S19, the water volume control unit 115 closes the flow control valve V6 while adjusting the opening of the flow control valve V6 by feedback control so that the water temperature T is consistent with the first required temperature zone, and then ends the temperature adjustment process of the main water tank 10. On the other hand, when the water volume control unit 115 determines that the water temperature T is below the lower limit of the first required temperature zone (NO in step S18), the process moves to step S20.

[0108] In step S20 , the water amount control unit 115 maximizes the opening degree of the flow rate regulating valve V6 , and then ends the temperature adjustment process.

[0109] Next, refer to Figure 4 , the processing after step S21 is explained.

[0110] like Figure 4 As shown, in step S21, the water amount control unit 115 opens the flow rate regulating valve V5 at the minimum opening degree.

[0111] In step S22, the water volume control unit 115 determines whether the water temperature T exceeds the upper limit of the first required temperature range. When the water volume control unit 115 determines that the water temperature T is below the upper limit of the first required temperature range (NO in step S22), the process moves to step S23. On the other hand, when the water volume control unit 115 determines that the water temperature T exceeds the upper limit of the first required temperature range (YES in step S22), the process moves to step S26.

[0112] In step S23, the water volume control unit 115 determines whether the flow control valve V3 is open. When the water volume control unit 115 determines that the flow control valve V3 is open (YES in step S23), the process moves to step S24. Then, in step S24, the water volume control unit 115 closes the flow control valve V3 and moves to step S25. On the other hand, when the water volume control unit 115 determines that the flow control valve V3 is closed (NO in step S23), the process of step S24 is omitted and the process moves to step S25.

[0113] In step S25, the water volume control unit 115 closes the flow rate regulating valve V5. Thereafter, the processing unit 110 ends the temperature regulating process.

[0114] In step S26 , the water amount control unit 115 maximizes the opening degree of the flow rate regulating valve V5 .

[0115] In step S27, the water volume control unit 115 determines whether the water temperature T exceeds a predetermined threshold value greater than the upper limit of the first required temperature zone. When the water volume control unit 115 determines that the water temperature T is below the threshold value (NO in step S27), the processing moves to step S28. In step S28, the water volume control unit 115 closes the flow control valve V5, and then ends the temperature adjustment processing. On the other hand, when the water volume control unit 115 determines that the water temperature T exceeds the threshold value (YES in step S27), the processing moves to step S29. In step S29, the water volume control unit 115 opens the flow control valve V3. Thus, cold water is added to the main water tank 10 via the first circulation line L1. Thereafter, the processing unit 110 ends the temperature adjustment processing. In addition, the above-mentioned temperature adjustment processing is repeatedly performed at predetermined intervals.

[0116] According to the above-described embodiment, the following effects are achieved.

[0117] The control device 100 of this embodiment controls the amount of water supplied to the main water tank 10 in the water circulation system 1. The water circulation system 1 includes a main water tank 10 for cultivating a first organism and whose water temperature is controlled to be a suitable water temperature for the first organism, that is, a first required temperature zone, and a first sub-water tank 21 for cultivating a second organism. Water can be supplied from the first sub-water tank 21 to the main water tank 10. In the first sub-water tank 21, the water temperature is controlled to be a suitable water temperature for the second organism, that is, a second required temperature zone, which is different from the first required temperature zone. The control device 100 includes: a water temperature information acquisition unit 112 for acquiring water temperature information related to the water temperature of the main water tank 10; and a water amount control unit 115 for controlling the amount of water supplied from the first sub-water tank 21 to the main water tank 10 based on the water temperature information acquired by the water temperature information acquisition unit 112, the first required temperature zone, and the second required temperature zone, so that the water temperature of the main water tank 10 is consistent with the first required temperature zone.

[0118] Thus, organisms having a different suitable water temperature from the first organism raised in the main water tank 10 can be cultivated in other water tanks such as the first auxiliary water tank 21, and the water temperature of the main water tank 10 can be adjusted using the water in the first auxiliary water tank 21 and the like whose water temperature has been adjusted. That is, while cultivating a variety of organisms, water whose water temperature has been adjusted by supplying hot or cold water from a heater or the like can be used to adjust the water temperature of other water tanks. By reusing the heat energy of such water that would otherwise be wasted, the energy consumption involved in adjusting the water temperature of the water tank for cultivating organisms can be reduced. Thus, the energy efficiency involved in adjusting the water temperature of the water tank for cultivating organisms can be improved.

[0119] In addition, in the control device 100 of the present embodiment, the water circulation system 1 also includes a second sub-water tank 22 for cultivating a third organism and whose water temperature is controlled at a suitable water temperature for the third organism that is different from the first required temperature zone and the second required temperature zone, that is, a third required temperature zone. Water can be supplied from the second sub-water tank 22 to the main water tank 10. The water volume control unit 115 controls the amount of water supplied from the first sub-water tank 21 to the main water tank 10 and the amount of water supplied from the second sub-water tank 22 to the main water tank 10 based on the water temperature information acquired by the water temperature information acquisition unit 112, the first required temperature zone, the second required temperature zone and the third required temperature zone, so that the water temperature of the main water tank 10 is consistent with the first required temperature zone.

[0120] Thus, the amount of water from the first sub-tank 21 and the amount of water from the second sub-tank 22 controlled to a different water temperature from the first sub-tank 21 can be controlled and mixed and supplied to the main water tank 10, so the water temperature of the main water tank 10 can be adjusted more finely by circulating water.

[0121] In the control device 100 of the present embodiment, the second organisms are the nutrient source of the first organisms, and the water volume control unit 115 supplies water and the second organisms from the first sub-tank 21 to the main tank 10 .

[0122] Thus, the second organisms in the water tank used for adjusting the water temperature are supplied to the main water tank 10 as a nutrient source for the first organisms. Therefore, the first organisms can be cultivated more efficiently while adjusting the water temperature.

[0123] In the control device 100 of the present embodiment, the third organism is a nutrient source for the first organism, and the water volume control unit 115 supplies water and the third organism from the second sub-tank 22 to the main tank 10 .

[0124] Thus, the third organisms in the water tank used for adjusting the water temperature are supplied to the main water tank 10 as a nutrient source for the first organisms. Therefore, the first organisms can be cultivated more efficiently while adjusting the water temperature.

[0125] The water circulation system 1 of the present embodiment comprises: a main water tank 10, which cultivates a first organism and is controlled at a water temperature suitable for the first organism, that is, a first required temperature zone; a first auxiliary water tank 21, which cultivates a second organism and is controlled at a water temperature suitable for the second organism, that is, a second required temperature zone, which is different from the first required temperature zone; a second auxiliary water tank, which cultivates a third organism and is controlled at a water temperature suitable for the third organism, that is, a third required temperature zone, which is different from the first required temperature zone and the second required temperature zone; a main water temperature adjustment pipeline L10, which can supply water in the first auxiliary water tank 21 and the second auxiliary water tank 22. to the main water tank 10; and, a control device 100, controlling the amount of water supplied to the main water tank 10; the control device 100 comprises: a water temperature information acquisition unit 112, acquiring water temperature information related to the water temperature of the main water tank 10; and, a water volume control unit 115, based on the water temperature information acquired by the water temperature information acquisition unit 112, the first required temperature zone, the second required temperature zone and the third required temperature zone, controlling the amount of water supplied from the first sub-water tank 21 to the main water tank 10 and the amount of water supplied from the second sub-water tank 22 to the main water tank 10, so that the water temperature of the main water tank 10 is consistent with the first required temperature zone.

[0126] Thus, organisms having a different suitable water temperature from the first organism raised in the main water tank 10 can be cultivated in other water tanks such as the first auxiliary water tank 21, and the water temperature of the main water tank 10 can be adjusted using the water in the first auxiliary water tank 21 and the like whose water temperature has been adjusted. That is, while cultivating a variety of organisms, water whose water temperature has been adjusted by supplying hot or cold water from a heater or the like can be used to adjust the water temperature of other water tanks. By reusing the heat energy of such water that would otherwise be wasted, the energy consumption involved in adjusting the water temperature of the water tank for cultivating organisms can be reduced. Thus, the energy efficiency involved in adjusting the water temperature of the water tank for cultivating organisms can be improved.

[0127] In addition, the water circulation system 1 of the present embodiment configures a multi-layer sub-water tank unit 20 in which the first sub-water tank 21 and the second sub-water tank 22 are arranged to overlap each other in the up-and-down direction.

[0128] Thus, the floor space can be reduced, and sunlight can be collected on the first sub-tank 21 or the second sub-tank 22 .

[0129] The water temperature adjustment method of the present embodiment adjusts the water temperature of the main water tank 10 in the water circulation system 1, and the water circulation system 1 includes the main water tank 10 for cultivating a first organism and whose water temperature is controlled to be a suitable water temperature for the first organism, that is, a first required temperature zone, and a first sub-water tank 21 for cultivating a second organism. Water can be supplied from the first sub-water tank 21 to the main water tank 10. In the first sub-water tank 21, the water temperature is controlled to be a suitable water temperature for the second organism, that is, a second required temperature zone, which is different from the first required temperature zone. The water temperature adjustment method includes: a water temperature information acquisition step, acquiring water temperature information related to the water temperature of the main water tank 10; and a water temperature control step, based on the water temperature information acquired in the water temperature information acquisition step, the first required temperature zone and the second required temperature zone, controlling the amount of water supplied from the first sub-water tank 21 to the main water tank 10 so that the water temperature of the main water tank 10 is consistent with the first required temperature zone.

[0130] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited thereto and the detailed structure may be appropriately changed within the scope of the gist of the present invention.

[0131] In the above embodiment, the sub-water tank unit 20 includes three water tanks, namely, the first sub-water tank 21 , the second sub-water tank 22 , and the third sub-water tank 23 . However, the number of the water tanks may be one, or may be four or more.

[0132] In addition, in the present embodiment, the suitable water temperature for the organisms cultivated in the second sub-water tank 22 and the third sub-water tank 23 is the third required temperature zone, but organisms with different suitable water temperatures may be cultivated separately and the water temperature may be controlled to be the respective suitable water temperatures. Thus, water with different temperatures from the three water tanks can be mixed and supplied to the main water tank 10, so the water temperature of the main water tank 10 can be adjusted more finely by water circulation.

[0133] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, organisms suitable for water temperatures lower than the main water tank 10 are cultivated in the first sub-tank 21, and organisms suitable for water temperatures higher than the main water tank 10 are cultivated in the second sub-tank 22 and the third sub-tank 23. However, organisms suitable for water temperatures higher than the main water tank may be cultivated in the first sub-tank 21, and organisms suitable for water temperatures lower than the main water tank 10 may be cultivated in the second sub-tank 22 and the third sub-tank 23. In addition, organisms suitable for water temperatures lower than the main water tank 10 may be cultivated in the first sub-tank 21, the second sub-tank 22, and the third sub-tank 23, and organisms suitable for water temperatures higher than the main water tank 10 may be cultivated.

[0134] Reference numerals

[0135] 1. Water circulation system

[0136] 10 Main sink (first sink)

[0137] 20 auxiliary water tank unit (water tank unit)

[0138] 21First auxiliary sink (second sink)

[0139] 22 Second water tank (third water tank)

[0140] 100 control devices

[0141] 112 Water temperature information acquisition department

[0142] 115 Water volume control department

[0143] L10 main water temperature adjustment pipeline (water supply pipeline)

Claims

1. A control device for controlling the amount of water supplied to a first water tank in a water circulation system, wherein the water circulation system comprises the first water tank for cultivating a first organism and the water temperature of which is controlled to be within a first required temperature range suitable for the first organism, and a second water tank for cultivating a second organism, and water can be supplied from the second water tank to the first water tank, In the second water tank, the water temperature is controlled to be in a second required temperature zone, which is different from the first required temperature zone and is suitable for the second organism. The aforementioned control device comprises: a water temperature information acquisition unit, which acquires water temperature information related to the water temperature of the first water tank; and The water volume control unit controls the volume of water supplied from the second water tank to the first water tank based on the water temperature information acquired by the water temperature information acquisition unit, the first required temperature zone, and the second required temperature zone, so that the water temperature of the first water tank is consistent with the first required temperature zone.

2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The water circulation system further comprises a third water tank for cultivating a third organism and having a water temperature controlled to be a suitable water temperature for the third organism, that is, a third required temperature zone, which is different from the first required temperature zone and the second required temperature zone, and water can be supplied from the third water tank to the first water tank. The water volume control unit controls the volume of water supplied from the second water tank to the first water tank and the volume of water supplied from the third water tank to the first water tank based on the water temperature information acquired by the water temperature information acquisition unit, the first required temperature zone, the second required temperature zone and the third required temperature zone, so that the water temperature of the first water tank is consistent with the first required temperature zone.

3. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: the second organism is a nutrient source for the first organism, The water volume control unit supplies water and the second organisms from the second water tank to the first water tank.

4. The control device according to claim 2, wherein: The third organism is a nutrient source for the first organism. The water volume control unit supplies water and the third organisms from the third water tank to the first water tank.

5. A water circulation system comprising: The first water tank is used to cultivate the first organism and is controlled at a suitable water temperature for the first organism, that is, a first required temperature zone; A second water tank for cultivating a second organism, wherein the water temperature is controlled to be a suitable water temperature for the second organism, which is different from the first required temperature zone, that is, a second required temperature zone; A third water tank is used to cultivate a third organism, and the water temperature is controlled to be a suitable water temperature for the third organism, which is different from the first required temperature zone and the second required temperature zone, that is, a third required temperature zone; a water supply line capable of supplying water in the second water tank and the third water tank to the first water tank; and a control device for controlling the amount of water supplied to the first water tank; The aforementioned control device comprises: a water temperature information acquisition unit, which acquires water temperature information related to the water temperature of the first water tank; and The water volume control unit controls the volume of water supplied from the second water tank to the first water tank and the volume of water supplied from the third water tank to the first water tank based on the water temperature information obtained by the water temperature information acquisition unit, the first required temperature zone, the second required temperature zone and the third required temperature zone, so that the water temperature of the first water tank is consistent with the first required temperature zone. 6 . The water circulation system according to claim 5 , which constitutes a multi-layer water tank unit, wherein the second water tank and the third water tank are arranged to overlap each other in a vertical direction.

7. A water temperature adjustment method, comprising adjusting the water temperature of a first water tank in a water circulation system, wherein the water circulation system comprises the first water tank for cultivating a first organism and the water temperature of which is controlled to be within a suitable water temperature for the first organism, i.e., a first required temperature zone, and a second water tank for cultivating a second organism, wherein water can be supplied from the second water tank to the first water tank. In the second water tank, the water temperature is controlled to be in a second required temperature zone, which is different from the first required temperature zone and is suitable for the second organism. The aforementioned water temperature adjustment method includes: a water temperature information acquisition step, acquiring water temperature information related to the water temperature of the first water tank; and, The water temperature control step controls the amount of water supplied from the second water tank to the first water tank based on the water temperature information obtained in the water temperature information obtaining step, the first required temperature zone and the second required temperature zone, so that the water temperature of the first water tank is consistent with the first required temperature zone.

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