System and method for planting aquatic plant material

Abstract

A system for planting aquatic plant material includes a pot defining a length, variable depth, and width, wherein the width has a substantially parabolic cross-sectional shape.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 411,443 (Agent File No.: CBH0003MA), filed on September 29, 2022, entitled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GROWINGAQUATIC BOTANICAL MATERIAL,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Art Technical Field

[0003] The present specification generally relates to systems and methods for growing aquatic plant material, and more particularly to systems and methods for growing aquatic plant material including parabolic pots. Technical Background

[0005] With as many as 1.5 billion livestock worldwide, cattle, sheep and other ruminant production systems produce 20% of all greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions worldwide, primarily through methane emissions. This methane emission is a byproduct of the fermentation of organic matter in the rumen of the stomach, a unique digestive system of ruminants. It has been found that feed or additives developed using certain aquatic plant materials can lead to a reduction in methane emissions.

[0006] However, growing such aquatic plant material can be challenging. For example, growing aquatic plant material suitable for animal feed may require isolation to avoid contamination. Additionally, growing aquatic plant material with desired characteristics may be challenging or impossible in typical growing environments. Therefore, there is a need for systems and methods that allow aquatic plant material to be grown to achieve desired characteristics. Summary of the invention

[0007] According to one embodiment, a system for growing aquatic plant material includes a basin defining a length, a variable depth, and a width, wherein the width has a substantially parabolic cross-sectional shape.

[0008] In another embodiment, a system for growing aquatic plant material includes a basin defining a basin volume, a length, a variable depth, and a width, wherein the width has a substantially parabolic cross-sectional shape, and one or more environmental conditioning devices configured to adjust one or more environmental characteristics in the basin volume.

[0009] In another embodiment, a method for growing aquatic plant material includes positioning a growing medium in a pot body of a pot defining a length, a variable depth, and a width, wherein the width has a substantially parabolic cross-sectional shape, and depositing aquatic plant material in the pot body for a growing period.

[0010] Other features and advantages of the systems and related methods described herein will be set forth in the detailed description that follows, and some features and advantages will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description, or may be recognized by practicing the embodiments described herein, including the following detailed description, claims, and accompanying drawings.

[0011] It should be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description describe various embodiments and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the claimed subject matter. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the various embodiments and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The embodiments illustrated in the drawings are illustrative and exemplary in nature and are not intended to limit the subject matter defined by the claims. The following detailed description of the exemplary embodiments can be understood when read in conjunction with the following drawings, in which like structures are represented by like reference numerals, wherein:

[0013] Figure 1A schematically illustrates a system for growing aquatic plant material according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0014] Figure 1B Schematically illustrates a method according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein. Figure 1A Longitudinal cross-section of the system;

[0015] Figure 1C Schematically illustrates a method according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein. Figure 1A A transverse cross-sectional view of

[0016] Figure 2 Schematically illustrates a method according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein. Figure 1A Multiple modules of the system;

[0017] Figure 3 Schematically illustrates a method according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein. Figure 1A The layout of the system;

[0018] Figure 4 A flow chart illustrating a method for growing aquatic plant material according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein is depicted.

[0019] Various embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in more detail, certain embodiments of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Whenever possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Embodiments of the systems and methods for growing aquatic plant material described herein will now be described in detail. According to one or more embodiments, a substantially parabolic tank or pond, referred to herein as a basin, is used to grow aquatic plant material. An agitator may be located in the basin to agitate the growth medium and aquatic plant material located therein. In particular, due to the parabolic shape of the basin, the agitation may be evenly dispersed throughout the growth medium, thereby substantially eliminating unnecessary stagnation points that may otherwise result in inconsistent growth within the basin. Agitation may promote the growth and characteristics of the aquatic plant material, thereby providing better aquatic plant material, such as for use in animal feed, and other uses may also be considered. For example, substantially uniform agitation may ensure that the aquatic plant material is equally affected by stressors to promote characteristic development, such as increased production of certain chemicals by the aquatic plant material. That is, the quality of the aquatic plant material throughout the basin may be substantially equivalent. Therefore, the quality and consistency of the aquatic plant material may be improved. These advantages and other embodiments will be described in more detail herein.

[0021] Although it is contemplated that various aquatic plant materials can be grown using the systems and methods described herein, in at least one embodiment, the aquatic plant material can include macroalgae (e.g., marine macroalgae), such as macroalgae of the genus Asparagopsis, such as Asparagopsis taxiformis and Asparagopsis armata that produce or have chemical bromoform and / or other halogenated active substances. Ingestion of bromoform and / or other halogenated compounds can help reduce methane gas in animals (e.g., cattle, sheep, or other ruminants).

[0022] As used herein, "halogenated compound" refers to any compound that includes a halogen (i.e., fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine). As used herein, these halogenated compounds are typically found in the glands of certain seaweeds. In the present disclosure, descriptions of "halogenated compounds" or "halogenated compounds" may refer to one or more halogenated compounds that are present in seaweed (e.g., specialized seaweed glands) prior to harvest. In certain embodiments, the halogenated compound is organic, which generally means that the halogen is bound to a carbon molecular backbone, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. In certain embodiments, the halogenated compound may be combined with a binding agent during downstream processing to provide a "bound halogenated compound."

[0023] In embodiments, halogenated compounds include bromine.Under unrestricted circumstances, what deserves special attention in embodiments of the present invention is bromoform, and it has been proved that when providing with enough dosage, it can reduce the methane emission of ruminant.But, not bound by any theory, it is believed that except bromoform, other halogenated compounds may also affect the methane emission reduction of ruminant, therefore capturing these other compounds may also be useful.In other embodiments, halogenated compounds may include iodine, and it may have an impact on the palatability of animal feed.

[0024] Halogenated compounds may include, but are not limited to, bromoform; dibromo(iodo)methane; bromo(diiodo)methane; iodoform; dibromo(chloro)methane; bromochloroiodomethane; dibromomethane; bromo(iodo)methane; diiodomethane; tetrabromomethane; acetyl iodide; 2-iodoethanol; 1-bromo-2-iodoethane; 2,2-dibromoacetaldehyde; 1-bromopropan-2-one; 1-iodopropan-2-one; 1,1-dibromopropan-2-one; 1-bromobutan-2-one; 1-bromo-3-iodopropan-2-one; 1,1,1-tribromopropan-2-one; 1,1-dibromo-1-chloropropan-2-one; 1,3-dibromobutan-2-one; 1,1-dibromo -3-iodoprop-2-one; 1,1,3,3-tetrabromoprop-2-one; 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexachloroprop-2-one; 1,1,3-tribromoprop-2-ol; 1,1,3,3-tetrabromoprop-1-ene; 1,1,3-tribromo-3-chloroprop-1-ene; 1,1-dibromo-3,3-dichloroprop-1-ene; 1,3,3-tribromo-1-iodoprop-1-ene; 3,3-dibromoprop-2-enal; 4,4-dibromobut-3-en-2-one; 1,4,4-tribromobut-3-en-2-one; 1-iodo-4,4-dibromobut-3-en-2-one; 1,1 ,4,4-tetrabromobut-3-en-2-one; 1,4,4-tribromo-1-chlorobut-3-en-2-one; 1,1,4-tribromo-4-chlorobut-3-en-2-one; 1,1-dibromo-4,4-dichlorobut-3-en-2-one; 1,4-dibromo-1,4-dichlorobut-3-en-2-one; 2-chloroacetic acid; 2-bromoacetic acid; 2-iodoacetic acid; 2,2-dichloroacetic acid; 2-bromo-2-chloroacetic acid; 2-iodo-2-chloroacetic acid; 2,2-dibromoacetic acid; 2-iodo-2-bromoacetic acid; 2,2-diiodoacetic acid; 3-chloroprop-2-enoic acid; 2-chloroprop-2-enoic acid ; 3-bromoprop-2-enoic acid; 3-iodoprop-2-enoic acid; 3-iodoprop-2-enoic acid; 3,3-dichloroprop-2-enoic acid; 2,3-dichloroprop-2-enoic acid; 3,3-dibromoprop-2-enoic acid; 2,3-dibromoprop-2-enoic acid; 3-iodo-3-dibromoprop-2-enoic acid; 2-iodo-3-bromoprop-2-enoic acid; 2-bromo-3-iodoprop-2-enoic acid; 3,3-diiodoprop-2-enoic acid; 2,3-diiodoprop-2-enoic acid; 2,3,3-tribromoprop-2-enoic acid; 2,3-dibromo-3-iodoprop-2-enoic acid; 2-iodo-3,3-dibromoprop-2-enoic acid. In certain embodiments, the halogenated compound may include the compounds shown in the following table:

[0025] Table 1 - Other halogenated compounds

[0026]

[0027]

[0028] It is noteworthy that the aquatic plant material may possess or produce any combination of the above compounds and / or other halogenated compounds.

[0029] As described herein, certain embodiments relate to the production of aquatic plant materials (e.g., algae) to provide seaweed feed products that can be used as animal feed or additives, provided as supplements before and / or after animal feed consumption. The seaweed feed products described herein refer to any material that animals (e.g., ruminants) eat (e.g., consume and / or digest), including seaweed or processed materials derived from seaweed. According to different embodiments, the seaweed feed products described herein can be consumed by animals alone (i.e., mainly consuming feed without consuming other feed raw materials), or can be consumed with other feeds (i.e., mixed with other feed raw materials or consumed "side by side" with other feeds). In certain embodiments, the seaweed feed products described herein can account for only a relatively small amount in the overall diet of the animal, and can be regarded as a supplement to another bulk feed. For example, the feed described herein can be eaten by animals together with other feeds, such as forage (including, for example, grass or leguminous crops (e.g., alfalfa) forage), silage, corn, soybeans, other seeds, oils, dietary supplements, etc. For example, in certain embodiments, the seaweed feed products described herein can be mixed with other feeds, such as corn and / or soybeans. In other embodiments, the animal may be grazed, or otherwise provided with any of a variety of forages, and fed a separate amount of the seaweed feed product described herein. It is contemplated that the seaweed feed described herein may be part of a feeding regimen that may vary depending on the breed and type of ruminant, such as dairy cows, beef cattle, "high-end" cattle (such as Wagyu or other high-end cattle types), free-range cattle, etc., and may also vary depending on the feeding method (such as feedlots or grazing systems or a combination of both). Each type of ruminant may have a specialized diet that includes the seaweed feed product and other additives.

[0030] According to different embodiments, the seaweed feed products described herein can be consumed and / or digested by ruminants. As described herein and understood by those skilled in the art, "ruminants" can refer to herbivorous, ungulate mammals (Ruminantia and Tylopoda) with complex three-chambered stomachs or four-chambered stomachs. Ruminants include, but are not limited to, cattle, sheep, deer, goats, giraffes, camels and llamas. Ruminants described herein can be domesticated, such as ruminants for direct human food consumption, dairy purposes and / or entertainment. In certain embodiments, ruminants can be dairy cows, beef cattle, "high-end" cattle such as Wagyu, free-range cattle or other, or can vary according to feeding methods (e.g., feedlots or grazing systems or combinations thereof).

[0031] Thus, aquatic plant material grown in the systems described herein can be used to produce animal feed. More particularly, aquatic plant material grown in the systems described herein can be used as an additive to animal feed to reduce methane production. In various embodiments, after the aquatic plant material is grown in the systems described herein, it can undergo various subsequent processing and / or formulation steps.

[0032] Reference now Figures 1A to 1C , a system 10 for growing aquatic plant material is generally depicted. For example, the system 10 may generally include a basin 100. A cover 200 may be positioned over the basin 100 to substantially isolate the basin 100 from contaminants. As will be described in more detail herein, the basin 100 may be particularly suitable for growing aquatic plant material, rather than a basin for use in fish or other wildlife industries.

[0033] The basin 100 may be a pot formed from any combination of plastic, glass, fiberglass, concrete, etc. In certain embodiments, the basin 100 may be a pool formed within a soil layer or soil substrate 14 (e.g., clay, sand, soil, etc.). It should be noted that when the basin 100 is a pool, the soil substrate 14 may provide thermal insulation for the growing medium 160 and / or aquatic plant material 20 placed in the basin 100. For example, the soil layer 14 may maintain the temperature of the basin 100 (and / or the growing medium and aquatic plant material located therein) between about 40°F and about 70°F, although other temperatures are contemplated and possible. If the basin 100 is formed in a soil layer or soil substrate, the soil matrix may be moved and / or carved to define the basin 100 by excavation (e.g., by a backhoe, shovel, etc.).

[0034] In certain embodiments, basin 100 can be positioned near a body of liquid, where such liquid can be an aqueous liquid (e.g., fresh water, salt water, or filtered or other treated water) that can be used as or for the production of growing medium 160. For example, in certain cases, it may be beneficial to form or install basin 100 within a predetermined range of a body of liquid (e.g., a lake, ocean, reservoir, pool, etc.). For example, basin 100 can be formed or installed within 300 miles (483 km) of a body of liquid, such as within 100 miles (161 km) of a body of liquid, such as within 50 miles (81 km) of a body of liquid, such as within 1 mile (1.6 km) of a body of liquid. By placing basin 100 near a body of liquid, the energy consumed in transporting liquid (e.g., by pumps, trucks, etc.) can be reduced. In embodiments, the body of liquid can be fluidly connected to basin 100 by any combination of pipes, pumps, etc.

[0035] refer to Figure 1B, the basin 100 can generally extend between the first end 102a and the second end 102b to define a length L. The longitudinal dimension extends in the longitudinal direction. In an embodiment, the basin 100 can have any length L, such as from about 10 feet ("ft") (3 meters) to about 500 feet (153 meters) long, such as from about 50 feet (15.2 meters) to about 250 feet (76.2 meters) long, such as from about 100 feet (30.5 meters) to about 200 feet (61 meters) long, such as about 150 feet (46 meters) long, although other lengths are contemplated.

[0036] refer to Figure 1C , depicting a transverse cross-section of the basin 100. As shown, the basin 100 has a width W. The transverse dimension extends in the transverse direction. Therefore, the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction are perpendicular to each other. In the described embodiment, the basin 100 has a variable depth D (vertical direction) and a width W, so that the basin 100 has a substantially parabolic cross-sectional shape in the transverse direction, which for simplicity is also referred to as a parabolic cross-sectional shape, and defines a parabolic surface 122. That is, the basin has a curved profile or surface that substantially corresponds to a parabola. In an embodiment, the substantially parabolic cross-sectional shape can generally correspond to the following equation:

[0037] y=ax 2

[0038] Wherein a is a coefficient that affects the slope of the parabolic shape. Although various slopes are expected and possible, in certain embodiments, a is less than about 1. Such a dimension can improve the stirring effect, and the specific details will be described in detail in this article. The term "substantially parabolic" is intended to capture slight changes or deviations from the parabolic shape, which may be typical engineering tolerances and may be inherently generated in the manufacturing process (e.g., changes or deviations from the parabolic shape of about 5% or less, such as about 2% or less, about 1% or less, etc.).

[0039] The first berm 120a and the second berm 120b may be disposed along either longitudinal side of the basin 100. The first berm 120a may be positioned along a first longitudinal side of the basin 100, and the second berm 120b may be positioned along a second longitudinal side of the basin 100. As shown, the first berm 120a and the second berm 120b are elevated relative to the surrounding ground 12. For example, the first berm 120a and the second berm 120b may be elevated relative to the ground by about 200 mm to 500 mm, such as about 300 mm, although other heights are contemplated. It should be noted that in embodiments, the first berm 120a and the second berm 120b may continue the parabolic profile of the basin 100, or may include a different or altered profile relative to the parabolic profile.

[0040] refer to Figure 1B , the first end 102a and the second end 102b can be a first end wall 104a and a second end wall 104b. The first end wall 104a and the second end wall 104b can be made of any suitable material to close either end of the basin 100. For example, the first end wall 104 and the second end wall 104b can be made of a soil substrate (such as clay, sand, soil, etc.), plastic, concrete, stone or similar materials. The first end wall 104a and the second end wall 104b can have an inwardly facing surface 105a, 105b, which defines the longitudinal end of the volume of the basin 100. Each inwardly facing surface 105a, 105b can be a plane as shown in the figure, and is arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. However, other directions and / or structures are also expected and possible. For example, the inwardly facing surface 105a, 105b can be curved, wavy, angled or similar.

[0041] like Figure 1C As best shown, the parabolic cross-sectional shape provided by the parabolic surface 122 of the pot 100 can have an apex 180 that indicates the location of the maximum depth within the pot 100. The apex 180 can be generally located at the center of the pot 100, so that the pot 100 is generally bilaterally symmetrical. The pot 100 can have any depth suitable for growing aquatic plant material 20, such as Figure 1B As shown. For example, the depth of the basin 100 at the vertex 180 can be about 2 feet (0.6 meters) to about 100 feet (30.5 meters), such as about 3 feet (0.9 meters) to about 10 feet (3.1 meters), such as about 6 feet (1.8 meters). It should be noted that when planting aquatic plant material 20, it is not necessary to fill the entire depth of the growth medium 160, but only a portion of it. The first end wall 104a, the second end wall 104b and the parabolic surface 122 define the basin body 101. The maximum width within the basin body 101 can be about 4 feet (1.2 meters) to about 50 feet (15.2 meters), such as about 6 feet (1.8 meters) to about 15 feet (4.6 meters), such as about 12 feet (3.7 meters), but other widths are also contemplated and possible depending on the depth and parabola coefficient.

[0042] Located within the basin 101 may be a liner 125, such as a plastic liner, a geomembrane liner, or the like. For example, the liner 125 may be formed of high density polyethylene. The liner 125 may be a single layer or any number of layers. For example, when the basin 100 is formed, for example, by excavation in a soil matrix 14, the liner 125 may prevent liquid from running through the soil surface. The liner 125 may be disposed along the parabolic surface 122 and / or the end walls 104a, 104b of the basin 100. In certain embodiments, the liner 125 may extend over the first berm 120a and the second berm 120b. Anchors (e.g., rock, soil, fasteners, etc.) may secure the liner 125 in place. In certain embodiments, the first berm 120a and the second berm 120b may be located on top of the liner 125.

[0043] The liner 125 can be formed into the shape of the basin 100 and extend continuously with the parabolic surface 122 of the basin 100. For example, the liner 125 can be formed to be positioned in the curve directly adjacent to the parabolic surface 122 and extend along the curve. In certain embodiments, a substrate layer (not shown) can be located between the parabolic surface 122 and the liner 125. The liner 125 can have a substantially consistent thickness, such as about 1 mm to about 10 mm thick, such as about 2 mm thick. However, in other embodiments, as the liner 125 approaches the vertex 180, the thickness of the liner 125 can (for example, gradually) change or increase. The inclusion of the liner 125 can not substantially change the substantially parabolic cross-sectional shape of the basin body 101, thereby maintaining the desired characteristics of stirring, which will be described in more detail below. In an embodiment, a drain 155 can be formed through the liner 125 and the basin 100 to allow the growth medium 160 to be removed.

[0044] A growing medium 160 , which may be an aqueous liquid (eg, water, salt water, water mixed with one or more compounds (eg, nutrient compounds)), may be located within basin 101 , such as on top of parabolic surface 122 and / or liner 125 .

[0045] refer to Figure 1B and Figure 1C The system 10 may generally include one or more environmental conditioning devices configured to condition the environment in the basin 101. For example, the one or more environmental conditioning devices may include one or more stirring devices 130 configured to stir or agitate the growing medium 160; one or more temperature regulating devices 150 (e.g., Figure 2 and Figure 3), configured to adjust the temperature of the growing medium 160 in the basin 101; one or more lighting devices 170, configured to deliver or emit light to the basin 101; one or more nutrient inlets 140, configured to deliver nutrients to the growing medium 160; or any combination thereof. It should be noted that although various environmental adjustment devices are described, the system 10 may include any number of environmental adjustment devices.

[0046] As described above, the one or more environmental conditioning devices may include one or more stirring devices 130 disposed within or on the parabolic surface 122 and / or the liner 125 for stirring the growing medium 160 in the basin 101. The stirring device 130 may be located above or at the vertex 180 of the basin 101 so as to be centrally located in the basin 101. The stirring device 130 may extend one or more portions between the first end wall 104 and the second end wall 104b. The stirring device 130 may be any device configured to stir the growing medium 160 in the basin 101. For example, the stirring device 130 may include one or more injection lines 132 (also referred to as bubbles) extending along the bottom of the basin 100 between the first end wall 104 and the second end wall 104b. The one or more injection lines 132 may be placed in a longitudinally continuous manner so that there is substantially uniform stirring along the length of the basin 100. One or more injection lines 132 can be configured to release a gas (e.g., air, carbon dioxide, oxygen, nitrogen, etc.) that can be pumped into one or more injection lines 132 and released into the growth medium 160 through a row of openings 134. In some embodiments, multiple injection lines that release different gases can be included. For example, one line may release air, while another line may release nitrogen or carbon dioxide. In some embodiments, different gases can be released through the same line as needed.

[0047] Due to the parabolic shape of the basin 100, the one or more agitation devices 130 are able to generate substantially uniform agitation throughout the basin 101. For example, Figure 1C As shown, the stirring vortex 136 can be uniformly generated on the first side 108a of the basin 100 and the second side 108b of the basin 100. For illustrative purposes, the stirring vortex 136 is schematically shown, which will substantially consume the first side 108a and the second side 108b of the basin 100 to substantially eliminate the stagnant area within the first side 108a and the second side 108b.

[0048] It should be noted that although the spray line 132 is described above, other agitation devices are also contemplated. For example, a stirring or agitation device may be located within the basin 101 and operated to agitate the growing medium 160 and any aquatic plant material 20 growing therein.

[0049] One or more stirring devices 130 can be mounted in the basin 100 by one or more anchors (e.g., weights, fasteners, etc.). Alternatively, one or more stirring devices 130 may not be anchored. For example, one or more stirring devices 130 can be placed in the basin 101 and then lowered and / or adjusted until they are positioned in the desired position in the basin 101.

[0050] As described above, the one or more environmental conditioning devices may include one or more lighting devices 170, such as a plurality of lighting devices. A lighting device may include any device capable of outputting light. For example, in some embodiments, the one or more lighting devices 170 may include one or more pendant lights 172, such as one or more rows of pendant lights 172 arranged on the basin 100. Figure 1B As shown, one or more rows of pendant lights 172 may be arranged longitudinally on the basin 100. For example, a pendant light may be provided every 10 feet, every 5 feet, every 3 feet, etc. Figure 1C In an embodiment, a single row of pendant lights 172 may be disposed on the upper portion of the basin 100 and aligned at the apex 180 of the basin 100 along the length of the basin 100. In certain embodiments, there may be two rows of pendant lights 172. In these embodiments, a row of pendant lights 172 may be disposed at the centroid location 138 of each stirring vortex 136, for example, directly at the centroid location 138 of each stirring vortex 136.

[0051] In certain embodiments, one or more lighting devices 170 may be submerged and / or mounted to one or more structures within basin 100. For example, one or more lighting devices 170 may be mounted to liner 125, agitation device 130, etc. One or more lighting devices 170 may be mounted using fasteners, clips, or other types of anchoring devices.

[0052] In some embodiments, the one or more lighting devices 170 may include one or more submerged and floating lighting devices 174. The one or more submerged and floating lighting devices 174 may float so that the one or more submerged and floating lighting devices 174 are configured to be submerged and located at a desired depth below the surface of the growing medium 160. For example, the one or more submerged and floating lighting devices 174 may be submerged and located approximately at the centroid location 138 of each stirring vortex 136 described above. In some embodiments, the one or more submerged and floating lighting devices 174 may be arranged above and / or along the vertex 180. It should be further noted that the submerged lighting device may be installed at any location of the basin body 101. In some embodiments, the one or more lighting devices 170 may include a plurality of submerged lighting devices located at different locations within the basin 100.

[0053] The various lighting devices 170 described above may include single bulb type lamps, and may also include light strips or light tubes. For example, one or more lighting devices 170 may include any combination of, for example, incandescent lamps, fluorescent lamps, halogen lamps, CFL lamps, LED lamps. The various lighting devices 170 may be powered by batteries or electrically connected to power sources (such as DC and AC power sources). In an embodiment, each or some of the one or more lighting devices 170 may be adjustable. For example, the brightness of the emitted light, the wavelength of the emitted light, the color of the emitted light, etc. may be adjustable.

[0054] In certain embodiments, the position of one or more lighting devices 170 can be adjustable. For example, in embodiments that include pendant lights 172, one or more pendant lights 172 can be height-adjustable. For example, the position of the pendant light (e.g., manually, or via a motor or other type of actuator) can be lowered closer to the growing medium 160, or raised farther away from the growing medium 160. Such adjustments can also adjust the coverage of the emitted light.

[0055] As described above, one or more environmental conditioning devices may include one or more nutrient inlets 140, such as multiple nutrient inlets. For example, the nutrient inlet 140 may include a valve that, when operated to an open position, can deliver nutrients, such as via a pump, to the basin 100 and the growing medium 160. The one or more nutrient inlets 140 may be positioned at different locations along the length of the basin 100 (e.g., such as about every 10 feet, such as about every 5 feet, such as about every 3 feet, etc.). Nutrients may include, but are not limited to, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, or other additives that may provide improved growth patterns or promote desired characteristics produced in aquatic plant materials.

[0056] As described above, the one or more environmental conditioning devices may include one or more temperature conditioning devices 150 (e.g. Figure 2 and Figure 3 For example, one or more temperature regulating devices 150 may include any number of heating or cooling devices (e.g., heat exchangers) for regulating the temperature of the growing medium 160 within the pot 100. For example, referring to Figure 3, the basin 100 can be fluidly connected to various inlet and outlet lines 112, 114. A temperature regulating device 150 can be connected to the inlet line 112, which is configured to regulate the temperature of the growth medium 160 entering the basin 100. In some embodiments, the growth medium 160 can be recirculated from the temperature regulating device 150 or a separate temperature regulating device to regulate the temperature of the growth medium 160 during the growth of the aquatic plant material 20. In some embodiments, the air, nitrogen or other gas introduced by the sparging line 132 can be regulated by the temperature regulating device 150 (e.g., by heating or cooling).

[0057] In certain embodiments, the temperature regulating device 150 can include an HVAC unit that can regulate the temperature of the air surrounding the basin 100. For example, the top side 110 of the basin 100 can be enclosed by a cover 200, such as a housing 202. The housing 202 can be enclosed to not only isolate the surface of the basin 100 from potential contaminants, but also maintain the environmental (e.g., temperature) conditions of the basin 100.

[0058] As described above, positioned around the pot 100 may be a cover 200 to close the top side 110 of the pot 100. In some embodiments, the cover 200 may only cover the surface of the pot 100 and / or the growing medium 160. For example, the cover 200 may be a polymer sheet, although other materials are also contemplated and possible. However, in some embodiments, the cover 200 is Figures 1A to 1C The housing 202 shown. For example, the housing 202 can be built around the basin 100 to isolate the basin body 101 and a certain volume of air around the basin 100 from external pollutants. In certain embodiments, the housing 202 is similar to a greenhouse and may have a translucent wall 204. The translucent wall 204 may have a coating applied thereto, or may be used to filter incident light (e.g., sunlight or ambient light) as needed. In certain embodiments, the housing 202 may filter ambient light so that the filtered ambient light includes green wavelengths and blue wavelengths, and substantially eliminates light of all other wavelengths. In certain embodiments, the housing 202 may adjust or diffuse the incident light to ensure consistent lighting throughout the basin 100. In an embodiment, one or more chandeliers 172 may be mounted on the housing 202. In an embodiment, the housing 202 may leave walking space around the basin 100 and / or the first berm 120a and the second berm 120b.

[0059] Reference now Figure 2, the modules of the system 10 are connected to each other through a communication path 162. For example, the system 10 may include a communication path 162, a control unit 161 including one or more processors 164 and one or more memories 166, one or more environmental adjustment devices including one or more lighting devices 170, one or more stirring devices 130, one or more nutrient inlets 140, and one or more temperature adjustment devices 150 (although additional or fewer environmental adjustment devices are expected and possible). In addition, the system 10 may include one or more sensors 190.

[0060] Communication path 162 provides data interconnection for each module arranged in system 10. Specifically, each module can be operated as a node that can send and / or receive data. In certain embodiments, communication path 162 includes conductive material, which allows electronic data signals to be transmitted to the processor, memory, sensor and actuator in the whole system 10. In another embodiment, communication path 162 can be a bus. In a further embodiment, communication path 162 can be wireless and / or optical waveguide. The components of the communication connection can include components that can exchange data signals with each other, such as electrical signals via conductive media, electromagnetic signals via air, optical signals via optical waveguides, etc. Therefore, communication path 162 can support wireless and / or wired communication.

[0061] The one or more processors 164 may include any device capable of executing machine-readable instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium. Thus, each processor may include a controller, an integrated circuit, a microchip, a computer, and / or any other computing device. There may be multiple processors 164 in the interfered computing device.

[0062] One or more memories 166 are communicatively connected to one or more processors 164 via communication paths 162. One or more memories 166 can be configured as volatile and / or non-volatile memory, and can also include random access memory (including SRAM, DRAM and / or other types of RAM), flash memory, secure digital (SD) memory, registers, compact disks (CD), digital versatile disks (DVD) and / or other types of non-transitory computer-readable media. One or more memories 166 can be configured to store one or more logic segments, which will be described in detail below. As described above, the embodiments described herein can utilize distributed computing devices to execute any portion of the logic described herein.

[0063] Embodiments of the present disclosure include logic stored on one or more memories 166, the logic including machine-readable instructions and / or algorithms written in any generation programming language (e.g., 1GL, 2GL, 3GL, 4GL, and / or 5GL), for example, machine language, assembly language, obstacle-oriented programming (OOP), scripting language, microcode, etc., which can be directly executed by one or more processors 164, can be compiled or assembled into machine-readable instructions and stored on a machine-readable medium. Similarly, the logic and / or algorithm can be written in a hardware description language (HDL), such as logic implemented by a field programmable gate array (FPGA) configuration or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) and its equivalents. Therefore, the logic can be implemented in any conventional computer programming language, pre-programmed hardware elements, and / or a combination of hardware and software components. As will be described in more detail herein, the logic stored on one or more memories 166 and executed by one or more processors 164 allows the control unit 161 to control the operation of one or more of the various environmental conditioning devices described herein to adjust or change the environment within the basin 101.

[0064] Thus, each of the one or more environmental conditioning devices may be communicatively coupled to the control unit 161 so that the control unit 161 operates the one or more environmental conditioning devices to adjust the environment of the basin 101. For example, as described above, various properties of the one or more lighting devices 170 may be adjusted by the control unit 161. For example, the control unit 161 executing logic stored on the one or more memories 166 may control the operation of the lighting devices to adjust position, brightness, wavelength, etc. (e.g., via a motor). Similarly, the control unit 161 may be communicatively coupled to one or more pumps or motors associated with the agitation device 130 to selectively control agitation of the growing medium 160. The control unit 161 may be communicatively coupled to one or more valves and / or pumps associated with one or more nutrient inlets to selectively deposit nutrients or other materials within the basin 100. The control unit 161 may be communicatively coupled to one or more temperature regulating devices to cause temperature regulation within the growing medium 160. Other regulators / actuators are also contemplated and possible.

[0065] In an embodiment, a user input device (not shown), such as any combination of a keyboard, a touch screen, a knob, a control rod, a joystick, etc., can be communicatively connected to the control unit 161 so that the user can input the desired operating parameters of one or more environmental adjustment devices. In certain embodiments, the control unit 161 can automatically adjust the environment based on the conditions in the basin 100. As described above, the system 10 can include one or more sensors 190, which are communicatively connected to the control unit 161 via a communication path 162. One or more sensors 190 can be operable to output a signal indicating the growth conditions or environmental conditions in the basin body 101. Based on the output, the control unit 161 can modify the environmental parameters to adjust the environment in the basin 100.

[0066] In some embodiments, one or more sensors 190 may include an optical sensor that can be operable to output an optical signal regarding at least one of the penetration of light (e.g., through the growth medium 160) and the reflectivity of the growth medium (e.g., surface reflectivity). For example, the penetration of light and / or the reflectivity of the growth medium can provide the control unit 161 with information regarding the growth pattern, size, etc. of the aquatic plant material. For example, as the plant aquatic medium grows, the penetration and / or reflectivity of light may decrease. That is, a larger plant size or a larger volume of aquatic material may result in a decrease in the penetration and / or reflectivity of light. The optical sensors can be disposed at different locations within the basin 100 and / or above the basin 100.

[0067] In some embodiments, in addition to or in lieu of optical sensors, one or more sensors 190 may include a pH sensor, a salinity sensor, a total dissolved solids (TDS) sensor, a turbidity sensor, a temperature sensor, etc. Thus, any combination of sensors communicatively coupled to the control unit 161 may be used to determine environmental and / or growth conditions in the basin 101. Furthermore, one or more sensors may be located within the basin 101 or outside the basin 100 within the housing 202.

[0068] Using feedback from any of the one or more sensors 190, the control unit 161 can adjust the environment using one or more environmental conditioning devices described herein. For example, agitating the growing medium 160 with one or more agitation devices, moving or otherwise adjusting one or more lighting devices, adding nutrients or other additives with one or more nutrient inlets 140, heating or cooling the growing medium 160 with one or more temperature regulating devices 150, etc. For example, the growth stage can be determined, for example, by the volume of aquatic plant material, pH, salinity, TDS, etc. The distribution of nutrients, agitation, temperature changes, and light changes can be adjusted to provide a desired growth pattern or characteristic.

[0069] In certain embodiments, the control unit 161 can be configured to execute a stress script stored in one or more memories 166. The stress script can include instructions for adjusting the growth medium 160 environment to apply pressure to the aquatic plant material grown therein. For example, if the aquatic plant material includes Asparagopsis taxiformis and Asparagopsis armata, introducing a stressor (such as increasing / decreasing stirring, increasing / decreasing light or performing other adjustments) may induce a stress response of Asparagopsis taxiformis or Asparagopsis armata, and promote the increase of bromoform production. For example, increasing pressure by stirring, light, nutrients, temperature, etc. may cause Asparagopsis taxiformis or Asparagopsis armata to react, thereby increasing the yield of bromoform and other halogenated materials before harvesting. In certain embodiments, using one or more sensors described herein, the control unit can detect the growth stage (for example, by the size or structure of the aquatic plant material) to identify when to apply or run a stress script to increase the yield of bromoform and other halogenated materials.

[0070] Reference now Figure 3 , which generally depicts a schematic layout diagram of the system 10. For example, as described above, a growth medium 160 (e.g., water, such as seawater) can be supplied to the basin 100 through the inlet line 112. In certain embodiments, the inlet line can include a valve that can be manually or controllably operated by a control unit 161 to allow the growth medium 160 to flow into the basin 100. The growth medium 160 can pass through a temperature regulating device 150 (e.g., a heat exchanger) to regulate the temperature of the growth medium 160 to a desired temperature. While passing through the temperature regulating device 150, one or more additives or nutrients can be added to the growth medium 160. The growth medium 160 can pass through a filtration system 30 including one or more stages of filtration (e.g., a coarse filter 31 and / or a fine filter 32). Before the growth medium 160 is deposited into the basin 100, the growth medium 160 can further pass through a UV treatment 34 to kill any microorganisms in the growth medium 160.

[0071] Seeds 22 (e.g., seeds) of desired aquatic plant material may be provided to the basin 100 by a transfer device 24. For example, the seeds 22 may be transferred to the basin 100 by a pump or manually or robotically. Once placed in the basin 100, the environment in the basin 100 may be conditioned by operating various environmental conditioning devices as described herein. The growing medium 160 may be circulated out of the basin 100 as waste through a drain 155 formed in the basin 100. After the various growth stages are completed, the aquatic plant material 20 may be moved from the tank to a hopper 50 or other structure using a vacuum 40 for downstream processing.

[0072] A power source 70 (e.g., an AC or DC power source) can be connected to various components (e.g., one or more lighting devices 170, one or more stirring devices 130, one or more temperature regulation devices 150, one or more nutrient inlets 140, etc.) to provide operating power.

[0073] It should be noted that although the embodiments describe only a single basin, in some embodiments, multiple basins may be included in the system. In some embodiments, each basin may have an independent housing, control unit, sensor, environmental conditioning device, etc. In other embodiments, multiple basins may be housed in a common housing and may share a common control unit, sensor, and / or environmental conditioning device.

[0074] Reference now Figure 4 , a flowchart of a method 300 for growing aquatic plant material is generally described. Although multiple steps are shown, more or fewer steps may be included without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, the method can be performed in any order.

[0075] At block 302, the method generally includes placing a growing medium 160 in a basin body 101 of a pot 100. For example, the growing medium 160 can be pumped into the pot 100. As described above, the growing medium 160 can be heated / cooled, nutrients added, filtered, and / or ultraviolet irradiated before being placed in the tank. At block 304, the method can include depositing aquatic plant material 20 in the basin body 101 for a growing period. For example, as described above, seeds can be deposited in the growing medium 160 and allowed to grow for a growing period.

[0076] At box 306, the method may include determining a growth condition of the aquatic plant material 20. For example, determining the growth condition may include detecting one or more characteristics of the aquatic plant material 20 with one or more sensors 190. Receiving feedback from the one or more sensors 190, the control unit 161 may determine the growth condition (e.g., maturity). At box 308, the method may include adjusting one or more environmental characteristics in the basin 101 according to the growth condition as described above. For example, the method may include increasing pressure on the aquatic plant material 20 to increase the production of, for example, bromoform, such as in the case where the aquatic plant material includes Asparagus taxus or Asparagus spinulosa. For example, increasing pressure about a week before harvest may increase the production of bromoform and other halogenated materials before harvest.

[0077] In certain embodiments, the method may include forming the basin 100 within an earthen substrate, such as with a mechanical shovel or the like, such that the basin 100 has a parabolic cross-sectional shape as described above.

[0078] Embodiments of the present disclosure may be further described according to the following numbered clauses:

[0079] 1. A system for growing aquatic plant material comprising a basin of defined length, variable depth and width, wherein the width has a substantially parabolic cross-sectional shape.

[0080] 2. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a stirring device.

[0081] 3. A system according to clause 2, wherein the stirring device is located at the vertex of the substantially parabolic cross-sectional shape.

[0082] 4. A system according to clause 2 or 3, wherein the stirring device is positioned in the basin body of the basin.

[0083] 5. A system according to any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a liner in the basin body of the basin.

[0084] 6. The system of clause 5, wherein the basin comprises a parabolic surface and the liner is disposed adjacent the parabolic surface.

[0085] 7. A system according to clause 5 or 6, wherein the basin comprises a parabolic surface and the liner is disposed adjacent to the parabolic surface.

[0086] 8. The system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the substantially parabolic cross-sectional shape substantially corresponds to the equation y=ax̂2, where a is a coefficient having a value less than about 1.

[0087] 9. A system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the basin comprises a first end wall and a second end wall, the length of which is defined by the first end wall and the second end wall; and an agitation device comprising a spray line located between the first end wall and the second end wall.

[0088] 10. A system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the stirring device is configured to generate a first stirring vortex on a first side of the basin and a second stirring vortex on a second side of the basin, and one or more lighting devices are located at the centroid of each of the first stirring vortex and the second stirring vortex.

[0089] 11. A system according to any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a plurality of lighting devices positioned along the length of the basin, wherein at least one of the brightness of the emitted light or the wavelength of the emitted light is adjustable.

[0090] 12. The system of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a housing enclosing a top side of the basin, wherein the housing filters ambient light entering the housing, wherein the filtered ambient light comprises primarily green and blue wavelengths.

[0091] 13. The system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the basin comprises a first berm along a first longitudinal side of the basin and a second berm positioned along a second longitudinal side of the basin, wherein the first and second berms are elevated relative to the surrounding ground.

[0092] 14. A system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the basin comprises a soil base defining a basin body.

[0093] 15. A system for growing aquatic plant material comprising: a basin defining a length, a variable depth, a width, and a basin body, wherein the width has a substantially parabolic cross-sectional shape, and one or more environmental conditioning devices configured to adjust one or more environmental characteristics in the basin body.

[0094] 16. A system according to claim 15, further comprising: one or more sensors for detecting one or more characteristics of aquatic plant material in the basin; and a control unit configured to execute logic, wherein the control unit detects the condition of the aquatic plant material in the basin based on signals from the one or more sensors; and adjusts one or more environmental characteristics in the basin using one or more environmental adjustment devices.

[0095] 17. The system of clause 16, wherein the one or more environmental conditioning devices comprises a stirring device.

[0096] 18. The system of clause 17, wherein the one or more environmental conditioning devices include a plurality of adjustable lighting devices positioned along the length of the basin, wherein at least one of the brightness of emitted light or the wavelength of emitted light is adjustable.

[0097] 19. A system according to clause 17 or 18, wherein the one or more environmental conditioning devices comprise a plurality of nutrient inlets positioned along the length of the basin.

[0098] 20. The system of any one of clauses 17 to 19, wherein the one or more environmental conditioning devices comprises a sparge line for releasing carbon dioxide.

[0099] 21. A system according to any of clauses 17 to 20, wherein the one or more sensors include an optical sensor operable to output an optical signal relating to at least one of light penetration and reflectivity of a growth medium.

[0100] 22. A method for growing aquatic plant material, wherein the method comprises: placing a growing medium in a body of a pot, the pot defining a length, a variable depth and a width, wherein the width has a substantially parabolic cross-sectional shape; and depositing aquatic plant material in the body for a growing period.

[0101] 23. The method of clause 22, further comprising: determining a growth condition of the aquatic plant material; and adjusting one or more environmental characteristics in the basin based on the growth condition of the aquatic plant material.

[0102] 24. The method according to any one of the preceding clauses further comprises: receiving signals from one or more sensors, wherein the signals indicate growth conditions of aquatic plant materials; determining growth conditions of aquatic plant materials based on the signals; and adjusting one or more environmental characteristics in the basin using one or more environmental adjustment devices based on the growth conditions of the aquatic plant materials.

[0103] 25. The method of clause 24, wherein the one or more environmental conditioning devices comprises an agitation device positioned in the basin.

[0104] 26. The method of clause 24 or 25, wherein the one or more environmental conditioning devices comprise a plurality of adjustable lighting devices positioned along the length of the basin.

[0105] 27. A method according to any one of clauses 24 to 26, wherein the one or more environmental conditioning devices comprises a plurality of nutrient inlets positioned along the length of the pot.

[0106] 28. A method according to any of the preceding clauses, further comprising increasing the production of bromoform and / or other halogenated materials by the aquatic plant material by adjusting one or more environmental characteristics in the basin.

[0107] It should now be understood that embodiments of the present disclosure relate to systems and methods for growing aquatic plant material. In particular, embodiments include a pot having a parabolic cross-sectional shape. As described above, due to the parabolic shape of the pot, agitation can be evenly dispersed throughout the growing medium, thereby substantially eliminating unwanted stagnation points. In particular, agitation can promote the growth and characteristics of the aquatic plant material, thereby providing better aquatic plant material, such as for use in animal feed, although other uses are also contemplated. For example, substantially uniform agitation can ensure that the aquatic plant material is equally affected by stressors to promote characteristic development, such as increased production of certain chemicals by the aquatic plant material. That is, the quality of the aquatic plant material throughout the tank or pond may be substantially equivalent. Therefore, the quality and consistency of the aquatic plant material can be improved.

[0108] Ranges herein may be expressed as from "about" one particular value, and / or to "about" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from a particular value and / or to another particular value. Similarly, when a value is expressed as an approximation by using the antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. It will also be understood that the endpoints of each range are both related to and independent of the other endpoint.

[0109] Unless expressly stated otherwise, it is in no way intended that any method described herein require that its steps be performed in a particular order, or that any apparatus be used in a particular orientation. Thus, in the absence of a method claim that actually recites the order in which its steps are to be followed, or any apparatus claim that actually recites the order or orientation of individual components, or in the absence of other specific statements in the claims or specification that the steps are limited to a particular order, or in the absence of a particular order or orientation of apparatus components, no order or orientation is intended to be inferred in any way. This applies to any possible non-express basis for interpretation, including: logical issues regarding arrangement of steps, operational flow, order of components, or orientation of components; plain meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation; the number or type of embodiments described in the specification.

[0110] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a" component includes aspects having two or more such components unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Claims

1. A system for growing aquatic plant material, the system comprising: A basin defining a length, a variable depth, and a width, wherein the width has a substantially parabolic cross-sectional shape.

2. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a stirring device.

3. The system of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a liner in a basin of the basin, wherein the basin comprises a parabolic surface, and The liner is disposed adjacent to the parabolic surface, or the liner is disposed adjacent to the parabolic surface.

4. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The basin includes a first end wall and a second end wall, the length being defined by the first end wall and the second end wall; and A stirring device includes a spray line positioned between a first end wall and a second end wall.

5. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein: The stirring device is located at the vertex of the substantially parabolic cross-sectional shape; The stirring device is configured to generate a first stirring vortex on a first side of the basin and a second stirring vortex on a second side of the basin; and One or more lighting devices are positioned at the centroid of each of the first stirring vortex and the second stirring vortex.

6. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising: a plurality of lighting devices positioned along the length of the basin, wherein at least one of the brightness of the emitted light or the wavelength of the emitted light is adjustable; and / or A housing enclosing a top side of the basin, wherein the housing filters ambient light entering the housing, wherein the filtered ambient light primarily contains green and blue wavelengths.

7. The system of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the basin comprises a first berm along a first longitudinal side of the basin and a second berm positioned along a second longitudinal side of the basin, wherein the first and second berms are elevated relative to the surrounding ground.

8. The system of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the pot comprises a soil base defining a pot body.

9. A system for growing aquatic plant material, comprising: a basin defining a length, a variable depth, a width, and a basin body, wherein the width has a substantially parabolic cross-sectional shape; and One or more environmental adjustment devices are configured to adjust one or more environmental characteristics in the basin.

10. The system of claim 9, further comprising: one or more sensors for detecting one or more characteristics of said aquatic plant material in said pot; A control unit configured to execute logic causing the control unit to: detecting a condition of the aquatic plant material in the pot based on signals from the one or more sensors; and Adjusting one or more environmental characteristics in the basin with the one or more environmental adjustment devices, wherein the one or more environmental adjustment devices comprise: Stirring device; a plurality of adjustable lighting devices positioned along the length of the basin, wherein at least one of the brightness of the emitted light or the wavelength of the emitted light is adjustable; and / or A plurality of nutrient inlets are positioned along the length of the pot.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the one or more environmental conditioning devices comprises a sparge line for releasing carbon dioxide.

12. A method for growing aquatic plant material, the method comprising: placing a growing medium in a body of a pot, the pot defining a length, a variable depth, and a width, wherein the width has a substantially parabolic cross-sectional shape; as well as The aquatic plant material is deposited in the pot for a growing period.

13. The method according to claim 12, further comprising: receiving signals from one or more sensors, wherein the signals are indicative of growth conditions of the aquatic plant material; determining a growth condition of the aquatic plant material based on the signal; as well as Based on the growth conditions of the aquatic plant material, one or more environmental characteristics in the basin are adjusted using one or more environmental adjustment devices.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the one or more environmental conditioning devices comprise: a stirring device positioned in the basin, a plurality of adjustable lighting devices positioned along the length of the basin, or A plurality of nutrient inlets are positioned along the length of the pot.

15. The method of any one of claims 12 to 14, further comprising increasing the production of bromoform and / or other halogenated materials by the aquatic plant material by adjusting one or more environmental characteristics in the basin.

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