Methane oxidation equipment

Abstract

A methane oxidation apparatus for oxidizing methane from a digestive cavity of an animal is provided. The apparatus includes a methane oxidation unit for oxidizing methane. The methane oxidation unit includes an inlet portion in fluid communication with the external environment, the inlet portion further configured to be mounted on a hollow member in fluid communication with the animal digestive cavity. When the methane oxidation unit further includes an outlet portion in fluid communication with the external environment, methane from the animal digestive cavity is oxidized in the oxidation unit prior to release to the external environment. The invention further provides a mounting gun for mounting the methane oxidation equipment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a methane oxidation device for oxidizing methane from an animal digestive cavity and also relates to a mounting gun for mounting the methane oxidation device. Background Art

[0002] Methane is a potent greenhouse gas with a significantly higher global warming potential than carbon dioxide. Livestock are known to be a significant source of methane gas, which is released through their exhalations and burps. Methane emissions from livestock often have direct economic consequences for livestock keepers, who may be subject to taxes based on the carbon emissions of their livestock. Furthermore, since cattle are a major contributor to global warming, reducing methane emissions from cattle is critical. One way to reduce methane emissions is to capture and oxidize the methane before it is released into the atmosphere. In this process, methane is oxidized by oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water vapor, thereby reducing the amount of harmful methane released. The energy requirements of this process are high, with the oxidation temperature required being around 500°C. Furthermore, regular emissions from livestock mean that the need to oxidize methane is very frequent.

[0003] It is difficult to capture and oxidize methane after it has been emitted by an animal, such as by exhaling, burping, or farting. In this case, the correct positioning of the methane oxidation system is essential to ensure efficient methane oxidation. Therefore, it is advantageous to oxidize methane before the animal naturally emits it.

[0004] Another way to reduce methane emissions from cattle is to add dietary supplements to cattle feed to reduce methane production in the rumen. However, these feed additives require regular dosing, are less effective at reducing methane production, and cannot be used with non-cattle feeds.

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to at least alleviate these problems of the prior art. Summary of the invention

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a methane oxidation apparatus for oxidizing methane from an animal digestive cavity, the apparatus comprising a methane oxidation unit for oxidizing methane. The methane oxidation unit comprises an inlet portion in fluid communication with an external environment. The inlet portion is further configured to be mounted on a hollow member in fluid communication with the animal digestive cavity. When the methane oxidation unit further comprises an outlet portion in fluid communication with the external environment, the methane from the animal digestive cavity is oxidized in the oxidation unit before being released to the external environment.

[0007] Thus, a device is provided for oxidizing methane from an animal prior to emission through exhalation, burping or farting. The methane oxidation device is particularly advantageous for use with bovine animals, such as cattle, but may also be used with non-bovine animals, such as sheep and goats. It is difficult to capture methane emitted from the mouth or nose of an animal, which difficulty may result in the methane escaping into the external environment prior to oxidation of the methane. Therefore, an advantage of the present invention is that methane from the digestive cavity of an animal can be oxidized prior to emission to the external environment via the mouth or nose. It should be understood that the fluid may be a gas, a liquid and / or a mixture of a gas and a liquid. Preferably, the fluid communication is a gas communication.

[0008] Preferably, the digestive cavity is the rumen of an animal. Thus, a methane oxidation apparatus is provided for oxidizing methane from the methane-rich rumen of an animal.

[0009] Preferably, the methane oxidation device further comprises: at least one hollow member, the at least one hollow member comprising a first portion and a second portion; and a piercing member for piercing a passage into the animal digestive cavity, the piercing member being located in the first portion of the at least one hollow member, and the methane oxidation unit being located in the second portion of the at least one hollow member. Here, the first portion of the at least one hollow member is in fluid communication with the animal digestive cavity.

[0010] In some embodiments, at least one hollow member consists of one hollow member. In other embodiments, at least one hollow member comprises a plurality of hollow members. In embodiments comprising a plurality of hollow members, all of the hollow members may be in fluid communication with a methane oxidation unit. Alternatively, the methane oxidation unit comprises a plurality of methane oxidation units, and one or more of the plurality of hollow members are in fluid communication with each of the plurality of methane oxidation units.

[0011] Preferably, the methane oxidation unit is located between the at least one hollow member and the external environment. In this way, an efficient fluid path is provided from the animal digestive cavity to the external environment.

[0012] Preferably, the methane oxidation unit comprises at least one catalytic material.

[0013] Preferably, at least one catalytic material is located between the inlet portion and the outlet portion, and at least a portion of the at least one catalytic material is arranged in a permeable configuration to allow fluid to flow from the inlet portion to the outlet portion. It is understood that the permeable configuration is a configuration that allows gas to flow from the inlet portion to the outlet portion. For example, the catalytic material is permeable, and / or the arrangement of the catalytic material allows fluid to flow from the inlet portion to the outlet portion. For example, the catalytic material can be arranged in a grid configuration or a mesh configuration, and / or include a plurality of holes or other outlets that are evenly or unevenly distributed. Preferably, the outlet portion is configured to prevent liquid from flowing into the methane oxidation device from the external environment. This helps prevent rainwater and other pollutants from entering the methane oxidation unit from the external environment.

[0014] Preferably, the methane oxidation device comprises a fixing member configured to removably fix the methane oxidation unit to the animal. Preferably, the fixing member is located at a first portion of the at least one hollow member and comprises a collapsible portion. The methane oxidation device pulls the first portion toward the second portion to collapse the collapsible portion by retraction of the passageway leading to the cavity of the animal. When the at least one hollow member collapses, the collapsible portion is configured to expand outwardly relative to the longitudinal axis of the at least one hollow member when it collapses.

[0015] Alternatively, the fixing member is located on the second portion of at least one hollow member. Alternatively, the fixing member is located on the methane oxidation unit. Alternatively, the fixing member is located on at least one of the first portion, the second portion and the oxidation unit. In some embodiments, the fixing member includes at least one piercing member configured to pierce the skin of an animal. In some embodiments, the fixing member includes an adhesive configured to adhere to a surface of an animal. Preferably, the surface is the skin of an animal. In some embodiments, the fixing member includes a positioning device for positioning the methane oxidation device on the animal. For example, the positioning device may include a strap.

[0016] Preferably, at least one hollow member comprises a valve located in the second portion and configured to prevent fluid from flowing out of the second portion of the at least one hollow member. Preferably, the valve is a one-way valve. In this way, fluid from the digestive cavity of the animal cannot bypass the methane oxidation unit and be discharged from the second portion to the external environment before oxidation. Preferably, the valve is configured to allow fluid flow when the fluid force applied to the valve is greater than a preset value. For example, the thickness of the valve, the material of the valve or other valve characteristics are selected to match the desired preset value. In this way, when the fluid pressure is sufficient to cause the device to be displaced or removed from the animal, the fluid can escape to the external environment by bypassing the methane oxidation unit to prevent the device from being displaced or removed.

[0017] Preferably, the outlet portion comprises at least one hole located on the outer surface of the methane oxidation unit. More preferably, the outlet portion comprises a plurality of vents located on the outer surface of the methane oxidation unit. In this way, the products of the methane oxidation reaction, i.e., carbon dioxide and water vapor, can enter the external environment after oxidation.

[0018] Preferably, the methane oxidation apparatus comprises a sensor. Preferably, the sensor is located in the methane oxidation unit. For example, the sensor may comprise a methane sensor, a carbon dioxide sensor, an inertial sensor, a pressure sensor, a flow sensor and / or a temperature sensor. In this way, a user may detect and monitor at least one of the digestion chamber emission characteristics, oxidation conditions and / or flow characteristics, such as the efficiency of methane conversion.

[0019] Preferably, the methane oxidation device comprises a data transmission unit configured to transmit data from the sensor to an external device. Preferably, the data transmission unit is configured to wirelessly transmit data from the sensor to the external device. In this way, a user can monitor data related to the digestion chamber emission characteristics, oxidation conditions and / or flow characteristics from the outside.

[0020] Preferably, at least one of the hollow members comprises a flow regulator configured to prevent fluid from flowing into the methane oxidation unit when the sensor detects that a characteristic of the device is at a preset threshold. Alternatively, the flow regulator is located in the methane oxidation unit. For example, the characteristic can be a fluid flow characteristic, such as a methane concentration level, or a device characteristic, such as a temperature within the methane oxidation unit or a temperature within at least one of the hollow members. In some embodiments, the sensor detects multiple flow characteristics. Preferably, the preset threshold is a preset maximum temperature within the methane oxidation unit. Thus, the methane oxidation device comprises a temperature-dependent regulator. In some embodiments, the flow regulator comprises a spring.

[0021] Methane oxidation is an exothermic reaction. Thus, it is advantageous to prevent methane from flowing into the methane oxidation unit when the sensor detects that the temperature in the methane oxidation unit has reached a preset maximum temperature. By preventing methane from flowing into the methane oxidation unit, the temperature in the methane oxidation unit is prevented from rising, thereby reducing the risk of burns or other injuries to users or animals in contact with the methane oxidation device.

[0022] Preferably, the methane oxidation unit includes a thermal insulation layer configured to prevent heat transfer from the methane oxidation unit to the external environment. In this way, heating of the external environment is slowed or inhibited to reduce the risk of burns and other injuries to users or animals installed with the methane oxidation device. In some embodiments, the methane oxidation unit includes an insulation unit that is used to insulate the methane oxidation unit to prevent heat loss to the external environment. In this way, a more efficient device is provided that can more easily maintain the energy requirements of the oxidation process.

[0023] Preferably, the methane oxidation device comprises an external abutment portion, the external abutment portion comprising a thermal insulation layer, the thermal insulation layer being configured to prevent heat from being transferred from the methane oxidation unit to the external abutment portion. Preferably, the methane oxidation unit and the first portion of the at least one hollow member comprise an external abutment portion. The external abutment portion may be configured to abut a surface of an animal. In this way, when the methane oxidation device is secured to the animal, heat from the methane oxidation unit is prevented from burning or causing discomfort to the animal due to the temperature of the methane oxidation unit.

[0024] Preferably, the methane oxidation unit comprises a heat accumulator configured to store heat energy generated by the methane oxidation reaction in the methane oxidation unit. Preferably, the heat accumulator comprises a heat storage material. For example, the heat accumulator may be configured in a honeycomb shape or in a plate shape. In this way, the temperature in the methane oxidation unit may be maintained for a longer period of time, thereby facilitating the increase in the duration of the methane oxidation reaction occurring in the methane oxidation device.

[0025] In some embodiments, the methane oxidation apparatus comprises a heat source. Preferably, the heat source is located within the methane oxidation unit. In this way, a more efficient apparatus is provided that is more convenient for maintaining the energy requirements of the oxidation process. In some embodiments, the heat source comprises an electrical resistor.

[0026] Because the flow of methane from the animal's digestive cavity is predictable, and because of the exothermic nature of the methane oxidation reaction, the apparatus may not require an internal or external power or heat source. The normal rumen of a cow contains methane of high purity. Thus, the oxidation unit is fed with a methane-rich fluid stream, thereby promoting continuous oxidation.

[0027] Preferably, the methane oxidation unit is dome-shaped.Preferably, at least one hollow member is straight.

[0028] Preferably, the diameter of at least one hollow member is 0.5 mm to 40 mm. More preferably, the diameter of at least one hollow member is 0.5 mm to 20 mm. More preferably, the diameter of at least one hollow member is 2 mm to 10 mm.

[0029] Preferably, the length of the portion of at least one hollow member located between the methane oxidation unit and the piercing member is 30 mm to 70 mm. More preferably, the length of the portion of at least one hollow member located between the methane oxidation unit and the piercing member is 30 mm to 40 mm. In this way, the insertion depth of the methane oxidation device in the animal digestive cavity is sufficient to form a fluid path between the animal digestive cavity and the external environment.

[0030] Preferably, the first portion of at least one hollow member is in fluid communication with the external environment via a permeable mesh. Preferably, the permeable mesh extends along the circumferential side of the first portion of at least one hollow member. In this way, large pieces of debris and material from the animal digestive cavity are prevented from entering the at least one hollow member, thereby preventing obstruction of the fluid path. In some embodiments, the permeable mesh is adjacent to the puncture member.

[0031] Preferably, at least one hollow member comprises a dredging member configured to dredge accumulated material from at least a portion of the at least one hollow member. It should be understood that dredging includes any cleaning, flushing or clearing action performed by the dredging member to clear some or all of the debris and other accumulated material from the at least one hollow member. Preferably, the dredging member is configured to dredge accumulated material from the permeable mesh. Preferably, the dredging member comprises a wedge adapted to fit the permeable mesh.

[0032] Preferably, the dredging member starts to operate when the pressure difference between the animal digestive cavity and the at least one hollow member drops to a preset value. In this way, when the fluid flows back from the at least one hollow member to the animal digestive cavity, the dredging member moves toward the permeable net and engages with the permeable net, thereby dredging the permeable net. Rumen contractions often occur in cattle, which can cause the pressure difference between the animal digestive cavity and the at least one hollow member to drop. Therefore, the dredging member uses these naturally occurring phenomena to clean the at least one hollow member. In this way, the dredging member operates periodically over time without the need for a dedicated driving force to operate the dredging member.

[0033] Alternatively or additionally, the dredging member comprises a piston. Preferably, the piston is configured to transitionally fit with the at least one hollow member. Preferably, the piston starts to act when the pressure difference between the animal digestive cavity and the at least one hollow member drops to a preset value. In this way, the piston can regularly remove debris and other accumulated materials (including debris located on the inner wall and the permeable net) from the hollow cavity of the at least one hollow member.

[0034] Preferably, the methane oxidation apparatus comprises a methane dilution unit configured to dilute the concentration of methane. Preferably, the methane dilution unit is located in the methane oxidation apparatus. Preferably, the methane oxidation unit comprises at least one dilution inlet configured to allow fluid from the external environment to enter the methane oxidation unit. In this way, the methane-rich fluid flowing out of the animal digestion cavity is mixed with low-methane gas from the external environment before catalysis. The methane dilution apparatus is useful for preventing overheating of the methane oxidation unit.

[0035] Preferably, the methane oxidation unit comprises a cooling unit configured to reduce the temperature within the methane oxidation unit. Preferably, the cooling unit comprises at least one cooling inlet configured to allow fluid from an external environment to enter the methane oxidation unit. In this way, gas from the external environment can mix with the oxidized gas stream from the methane oxidation unit, so that heat is transferred from the oxidized fluid stream to the gas from the external environment. In this way, the products of the exothermic oxidation reaction are cooled before being discharged from the outlet portion.

[0036] Preferably, at least one hollow member includes a buoyancy member configured to float within the animal digestive cavity. More preferably, the buoyancy member is configured to float on a surface of liquid within the animal digestive cavity. Preferably, the buoyancy member is located on a first portion of the at least one hollow member. Thus, the first portion of the at least one hollow member is configured to remain afloat and positioned within any air pocket in the animal digestive cavity. Thus, the methane oxidation device can oxidize methane from any air pocket and will not be submerged in any liquid or other material in the digestive cavity. In some embodiments, the buoyancy member includes a flexible extension portion configured to extend the fluid path of the at least one hollow member. Thus, the buoyancy member allows the at least one hollow member to extend further within the animal digestive cavity, thereby reaching any distal air pocket within the cavity.

[0037] The present invention provides a portable device with low resource requirements. Considering the large number of animals present in a herd, such as a group of cattle, a cheap and replaceable device is particularly advantageous. In addition, there are no particular restrictions on the age, size and type of animals that the device can be used for, thereby reducing the need to select the size of the device to better suit each animal.

[0038] Preferably, at least one of the hollow members comprises an inlet valve located in the second portion and configured to allow fluid from the external environment to enter the second portion of the at least one hollow member. Preferably, the valve is a one-way valve. In this way, a fluid flow from the external environment can enter the animal digestive cavity. In this way, with each rumen contraction, methane flowing out of the animal digestive cavity can mix with gas and oxygen in the external environment as it passes through the hollow member before oxidation. In this way, the methane content of the fluid flowing out of the animal digestive cavity is diluted before oxidation.

[0039] In some embodiments, the valve preventing fluid from flowing out of the second portion of the at least one hollow member comprises a valve allowing fluid to flow from the external environment into the second portion. In this way, the valve is a two-way valve.

[0040] In some embodiments, at least one of the hollow members includes an outlet valve located in the second portion and configured to allow fluid to flow from the second portion of the at least one hollow member to the external environment. Thus, the valve is a one-way valve that allows fluid flowing out of the rumen to leave the methane oxidation device, while the valve prevents fluid from the external environment from entering the methane oxidation device.

[0041] Therefore, the methane oxidation device may include: a one-way inlet valve that allows fluid from the external environment to mix with fluid flowing out of the rumen; a one-way outlet valve that allows fluid flowing out of the rumen to leave the methane oxidation device while preventing fluid from the external environment from entering the methane oxidation device; and / or a two-way valve that allows fluid from the external environment to enter the methane oxidation device and allows fluid within the methane oxidation device to flow out of the methane oxidation device.

[0042] In some embodiments, the self-sealing valve includes a floating member configured to block the opening of the at least one hollow member at the second end. Preferably, the floating member includes a ball. Preferably, the floating member is configured to move between the opening of the at least one hollow member at the second end and a second position within the at least one hollow member. In this way, when a large amount of fluid from the rumen passes through the at least one hollow member and attempts to flow out of the open end of the at least one hollow member, the floating member is pushed toward the open end of the at least one hollow member, thereby blocking the open end and preventing the fluid from flowing out of the at least one hollow member.

[0043] Preferably, the methane oxidation apparatus further comprises a filter configured to allow gas to flow through the filter but prevent liquid from flowing through the filter. Preferably, the permeable mesh comprises the filter. Alternatively, the filter is located at a first end of the at least one hollow member. Preferably, the filter spans the entire width of the at least one hollow member.

[0044] In this way, methane can enter the at least one hollow member and subsequently the methane oxidation device, while excess liquid from the animal's rumen does not enter the at least one hollow member. Advantageously, the efficiency of the methane oxidation device is increased and the reduction in pollutants increases the life of the methane oxidation device.

[0045] Preferably, the filter comprises ceramic or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

[0046] Preferably, the fixing member is adjustable. In this way, the fixing member can be adjusted to accommodate the size of the animal to which the methane oxidation device is to be fixed. Preferably, the fixing member includes an elastic member configured to adjust at least one dimension of the fixing member. For example, when the fixing member includes a retractable portion, preferably, the retractable portion is coupled to the elastic member so that the elastic member is configured to control the degree of contraction by abutting a portion of the animal. Preferably, the elastic member causes the fixing member to be at a minimum contraction level. That is, in the absence of the animal, the fixing member is at a minimum contraction level. Therefore, when the methane oxidation device is attached to a large animal, the elastic member abuts a portion of the animal, causing the retractable portion to stretch to a greater extent to accommodate the animal. In some embodiments, the elastic member is a spring.

[0047] Preferably, the methane oxidation unit is removably fixed to at least one hollow member, so that a user can remove and replace the methane oxidation unit, such as for maintenance or replacement due to damage or failure.

[0048] Preferably, the methane oxidation device also includes a methane measuring unit, which is configured to measure at least one characteristic of the gas inside or discharged from at least one hollow member. For example, the at least one characteristic can be the concentration of methane in the gas. Preferably, the methane measuring unit includes at least one sensor. Preferably, the methane measuring unit is removably fixed to at least one hollow member. In this way, the user can remove and replace the methane measuring unit, such as maintenance or replacement due to damage or failure. Therefore, the user can choose whether to attach the methane measuring unit or the methane oxidation unit to at least one hollow member. The user can switch between each unit according to the required methane oxidation device "mode", i.e., methane sensing mode and methane oxidation mode. In an optional embodiment, at least one hollow member is configured to accommodate a methane oxidation unit and a methane measuring unit.

[0049] Preferably, the methane oxidation unit includes a gas flow regulator configured to regulate the gas flow within the at least one hollow member. Since the volume and flow rate of the gas flow entering the at least one hollow member from the rumen of the animal change, the flow regulator improves the regulation of the gas flow. In this way, the efficiency of the methane oxidation unit is improved because the gas flow entering the methane oxidation device for oxidation is stable. Therefore, the overload of the methane oxidation unit is reduced and the gas dynamics are more predictable. Preferably, the gas flow regulator is located in the at least one hollow member. In some embodiments, the gas flow regulator is located in the first part of the at least one hollow member. In this way, when a large amount of gas attempts to pass through the gas flow regulator, the pressure in the at least one hollow member will not increase.

[0050] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an installation gun for installing the methane oxidation device according to the first aspect of the present invention, the installation gun comprising: a methane oxidation device bracket, the methane oxidation device bracket being configured to support the methane oxidation device according to the first aspect of the present invention; an insertion unit, the insertion unit being configured to insert a portion of the methane oxidation unit supported on the methane oxidation device bracket into an animal digestion cavity; an actuating member, the actuating member being configured to be actuated by a user of the insertion unit; and an ignition member, the ignition member being used to generate sparks.

[0051] In this way, a mounting gun can be used to provide the force required for the piercing member of the methane oxidation device to pierce the skin of the animal. After actuating the mounting gun, the insertion unit then inserts at least one hollow member into the digestive cavity of the animal, and the methane oxidation unit is in fluid communication with the digestive cavity. Subsequently, an ignition member can generate a spark to ignite the methane-rich fluid from the digestive cavity. The ignition member is located within the methane oxidation unit. The spark heats the heat storage of the methane oxidation unit, burning the methane, thereby promoting methane oxidation within the oxidation unit.

[0052] Preferably, the methane oxidation device support comprises a rod configured to be received within the at least one hollow member. Preferably, the piercing member is configured to be removably fixed to the first end of the rod. In this way, the insertion force applied by the user to the rod is transferred to the piercing member, and the mounting gun can then be removed from the methane oxidation device and the digestive cavity of the animal.

[0053] Preferably, the actuation member comprises a handle member including a trigger configured to be actuated by a hand of a user.The actuation member allows the user to apply the necessary force to the skin of the animal to insert the methane oxidation device into the digestion cavity.

[0054] Preferably, the insertion unit is configured to brake the fixing member. Preferably, the installation gun includes a fan. The fan assists in the ignition and dilution of the methane. In some embodiments, the installation gun includes a power source configured to assist in the ignition member ignition. For example, the installation gun may include a battery or may be configured to receive power from a main power source. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0055] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0056] Figure 1 A methane oxidation apparatus according to a first aspect of the invention is described, the apparatus being fixed to a dairy cow and used to oxidize methane from the rumen of the dairy cow;

[0057] Figure 2A Describes Figure 1 An external view of a methane oxidation unit of a methane oxidation plant;

[0058] Figure 2B Describes Figure 1 A view of a telescopic portion of a fixed member of a methane oxidation device;

[0059] Figure 3 A mounting gun in communication with the second aspect of the present invention is described. Figure 1 methane oxidation equipment in; and

[0060] Figure 4 Describes Figure 1 A further view of the methane oxidation device in FIG. 1 with the fixed member in a retracted position illustrating the fluid flow path of the methane oxidation device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] refer to Figures 1 to 4 , shows a methane oxidation device 100 fixed to a cow 50. Figure 1 As shown, the device 100 is fixed to the skin of the cow 50 above the digestive cavity of the cow 50. In this embodiment, the digestive cavity is the rumen 55, and the device 100 is configured to oxidize methane from the rumen 55.

[0062] The device 100 includes a hollow member 105, which includes a first portion 105a and a second portion 105b. The hollow member 105 is a straight cylindrical shape and has a constant cross-section along its length. In this embodiment, the hollow member 105 includes silicone. The device 100 also includes a piercing member 110 located in the first portion 105. The piercing member 110 includes a sufficiently sharp tip to pierce the passage from the skin through the rumen inner wall 60 and into the rumen 55 of the cow 50. The piercing member 110 extends along the longitudinal axis L of the hollow member 105. The piercing member 110 pierces to form a straight passage 60a through the rumen inner wall 60. In this way, the hollow member 105 and the piercing member 110 form a hollow needle.

[0063] The first portion 105a includes a permeable mesh 125 extending along the circumference of the first portion 105a and adjacent to the piercing member 110. Figures 1 to 4 As shown, when the apparatus 100 is secured to the cow 50, the mesh 125 allows fluid from the rumen 55 to enter and pass through the hollow member 105. The mesh 125 also allows fluid to flow out of the hollow member 105 and back into the rumen 55. Thus, the first portion 105a of the hollow member 105 is in fluid communication with the rumen 55.

[0064] The apparatus 100 also includes a dome-shaped methane oxidation unit 115 for oxidizing methane located in the second portion 105b of the hollow member 105. The methane oxidation unit 115 is located between the hollow member 105 of the apparatus 100 and the external environment 95. The second portion 105b is located within the central bore of the methane oxidation unit 115 and does not extend outside of the methane oxidation unit 115, thereby providing a compact apparatus.

[0065] The methane oxidation unit 115 includes an inlet portion 120. The inlet portion 120 includes a hole in fluid communication with the first portion 105a of the hollow member 105. The inlet portion 120 is arranged to be adjacent to the second portion 105b of the hollow member 105 and extends along the circumferential side of the hollow member 105. The second portion 105b of the hollow member 105 includes corresponding holes arranged along its circumferential side. The inlet portion 120 allows fluid to flow from the methane oxidation unit 115 to the hollow member 105, and vice versa. Because the first portion 105a is in fluid communication with the rumen 55, fluid from the rumen 55 can pass through the hollow member 105 and enter the methane oxidation unit 115 via the inlet portion 120. The methane oxidation device 115 also includes an outlet portion 130 in fluid communication with the external environment 95. As shown in FIG. Figure 2A As shown, the outlet portion 130 includes a plurality of vents 135 located on the outer surface of the methane oxidation unit 115, each vent extending along the circumference of the dome-shaped methane oxidation unit 115 to form a helical chimney. The plurality of vents 135 allow fluid to flow from the methane oxidation unit 115 to the external environment 95, and vice versa. The plurality of vents 135 prevent rainwater from entering the methane oxidation unit 115. Thus, the apparatus 100 is configured so that fluid can flow from the rumen 55 through the hollow member 105 into the methane oxidation unit 115 and the external environment 95. In this way, methane from the rumen 55 of the cow 50 is oxidized in the oxidation apparatus before being released into the external environment 95.

[0066] To mount the device on a cow 50 to oxidize methane from the rumen 50, the device 100 can be placed on the skin of the cow 50 above the rumen 55. To facilitate application, the piercing member 110 is placed on the skin so that the longitudinal axis L of the hollow member 105 is approximately perpendicular to the surface of the skin. Subsequently, a force can be applied to the device 100 so that the piercing member 110 pierces the skin and forms a channel 60a in the inner wall 60 of the rumen.

[0067] Thus, a passage is formed to the upper portion of the rumen 50. Due to the pressure differential between the rumen 55 and the external environment 95, the gas in the rumen escapes through the hollow member 105 to the external environment 95 without any additional input force or assistance from the device 100. The user applies force until the outer abutment portion 165 abuts the skin, and the device is considered fully inserted into the cow 50. In the rumen 55 of the cow 50, the purity of methane is about 270,000 / ppm.

[0068] The methane oxidation unit 115 includes a catalytic material 140 located between the inlet portion 120 and the plurality of vents 135. The catalytic material 140 is in a honeycomb structure, so that the catalytic material 140 is permeable and provides a sufficient specific surface area. Therefore, methane can flow in from the inlet portion 120 and contact the catalytic material 140 that catalyzes the oxidation of methane, and the byproducts of the oxidation reaction can flow out of the methane oxidation unit 115 through the plurality of vents 135.

[0069] The methane oxidation unit 115 further includes a heat accumulator 185 configured to store heat energy from the methane oxidation reaction occurring within the methane oxidation unit. The heat accumulator 185 is a metal plate located between the second portion 105b of the hollow member 105 and the catalytic material 140.

[0070] The hollow member 105 includes a one-way self-sealing valve 145 located in the second portion 105b, which is configured to prevent fluid from flowing out of the second portion 105b of the hollow member 105. The valve 145 is located near the inlet portion 120 of the methane oxidation unit 115 and away from the first portion 105a, and spans the diameter of the hollow member 105 to prevent fluid from flowing through the end of the second portion 105b. In this way, fluid from the rumen 55 cannot bypass the methane oxidation unit 115 and enter the external environment 95 before oxidation. The valve 145 is configured to allow fluid to flow into the external environment 95 through the second portion 105b when the fluid force applied to the valve 145 is higher than a preset value.

[0071] The hollow member 105 further includes a flow regulator 180 configured to prevent fluid from entering the methane oxidation unit 115. The flow regulator 180 is located in the second portion 105b of the hollow member 105 and includes a spring 180a fixed near the valve 145 and configured to expand and contract along the longitudinal axis L. In the expanded state, the spring 180a passes through the hole of the inlet portion 120. The flow regulator 180 further includes a blocking member 180b configured to prevent fluid from flowing along the hollow member 105. In the expanded state, the spring 180a extends so that the blocking member 180b prevents fluid from the first portion 105a of the hollow member 105 from flowing into the inlet portion 210 of the methane oxidation unit 115.

[0072] The methane oxidation unit 115 includes a temperature sensor, and when the temperature in the methane oxidation unit 115 reaches a preset threshold, the spring 180 a of the flow regulator 180 is configured to extend so that the blocking member 180 b blocks the flow of fluid into the inlet portion 210 .

[0073] The apparatus 100 further includes a fixing member 150 configured to removably fix the methane oxidation unit 115 to the cow 50. The fixing member 150 is located at the first portion 105a of the hollow member 105 and includes a retractable portion 150a, such as Figure 2B As shown, the telescopic portion 150a comprises a rigid plastic. The telescopic portion 150a comprises an upper portion 150a' and a lower portion 150a". The device 100 retracts the lower portion 150a" by pulling the upper portion 150a' toward the telescopic portion 150a through the retraction of the passage 60a entering the rumen 50. Figure 4 As shown, the telescopic portion 150a is configured to contract along the longitudinal axis L of the hollow member 105 when it contracts. The telescopic portion 150a can be contracted to a plurality of preset lengths. In this way, a ratchet member is provided.

[0074] The fixing member 150 also includes an expansion portion 150b that can be expanded outward, and the expansion portion 150b includes silicone. The expansion portion 150b includes a rivet bulb 150b' and a permeable mesh 125. The telescopic portion 150a includes three holes extending in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis L, thereby allowing fluid to flow through the telescopic portion 150a. In this way, the fluid from the rumen 55 can pass through the permeable mesh 125 of the expansion member 150b, through the telescopic portion 150a, and enter the hollow member 105.

[0075] The retractable portion 150a has greater rigidity than the unfolded portion 150b, while the unfolded portion 150b has greater flexibility than the retractable portion 150a. The unfolded portion 150b is located between the external environment 55 and the retractable portion 150a, so that the retractable portion 150a does not hinder the movement of the unfolded portion 150b.

[0076] When the device 100 is retracted through the passage 60a into the rumen 50, the expanded portion 150b is configured to expand outwardly relative to the longitudinal axis L of the hollow member 105. Thus, when the mounting gun is removed from the device 100, the retractable portion 150a contracts and the expanded portion 150b expands outwardly, thereby securing the securing member 150 within the rumen 50, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 The expanded portion 150b prevents the device from exiting the rumen 50 and being removed from the cow 50.

[0077] The reverse operation may be performed to remove the device 100 from the cow 50. A force may be applied toward the rumen 50, thereby extending the retractable portion 150a to an uncontracted state, thereby returning the expanded portion 150b to an unexpanded state, thereby enabling removal of the device through the passage 60a.

[0078] The device 100 can be mounted on a cow 50 using a mounting gun according to the second aspect of the invention. The mounting gun comprises a methane oxidation device support comprising an elongated rod 10. Figure 3 As shown, the piercing member 110 is configured to be removably fixed to the first end 10a of the rod 10. After installation, the rod 10 can be removed from the hollow member 105, thereby disconnecting the rod 10 from the piercing member 110.

[0079] The first portion 105a also includes a buoyancy member 155. The buoyancy member 155 assists in maintaining the position of the first portion 105a within the air pocket of the rumen 55. The buoyancy member 155 prevents the first portion 105a from being immersed in liquid or other rumen matter, thereby maintaining fluid communication between the air pocket of the rumen 55 and the external environment 95.

[0080] The apparatus 100 includes an external abutment 165 including an insulation layer 160 configured to prevent heat from being transferred from the methane oxidation unit 115 to the external abutment 165. The insulation layer 160 includes an insulating manifold plate. The external abutment 165 includes a silicone sheet and is located at a location on the skin and the rumen inner wall 60 that contacts the surface of the methane oxidation unit 115 and the hollow member 105.

[0081] Thus, the outer abutment 165 prevents the skin of the cow 50 near the passage 60a and the rumen inner wall 60 from being burned or otherwise uncomfortable due to the temperature of the oxidation reaction in the methane oxidation unit 115. Thus, only the outer abutment 165 of the apparatus 100 contacts the surface of the cow 50, thereby improving the safety and comfort of the cow 50.

[0082] The methane oxidation unit 115 includes an inlet chamber 170a, a lower chamber 170b, and an upper chamber 170c.

[0083] The inlet chamber 170a is located near the inlet portion 120. Fluid entering the methane oxidation unit 115 via the inlet portion 120 first passes through the inlet chamber 170a. The upper surface of the inlet chamber 170a includes an insulating layer 160. The inlet chamber 170a is in fluid communication with the lower chamber 170b via a plurality of holes 175 located in the insulating layer 160. The plurality of holes 175 are located at the distal end of the hollow member 105 and adjacent to the outer surface of the methane oxidation unit 115, so that the fluid entering the methane oxidation unit 115 via the inlet portion 120 spans most of the length of the inlet chamber 170a before entering the lower chamber 170b.

[0084] Thus, the residual heat of the oxidation reaction occurring in the lower chamber 170b and the upper chamber 170c can be transferred to the fluid in the inlet chamber 170a. Thus, the heat energy is partially dissipated before heating the outer adjacent portion 165. The lower chamber 170b and the upper chamber 170c are in fluid communication and separated by the permeable catalytic material 140.

[0085] like Figure 4 As shown, due to the pressure difference between the rumen 55 and the external environment 95, methane from the rumen 55 enters the hollow member 105 via the permeable mesh 125 in the A direction. The methane to be oxidized then passes through the hollow tube 105 in the B direction. The methane to be oxidized passes through the inlet portion 120 and spans the length of the inlet chamber 170a in the C direction. The methane to be oxidized enters the lower chamber 170b via a plurality of holes 175 and then passes through the honeycomb structure of the catalytic material 140 in the D direction. The catalytic material 140 catalyzes the methane oxidation that occurs in the lower chamber 170b and the upper chamber 170a. The byproducts of the oxidation reaction and any unoxidized methane enter the upper chamber 170c in the E direction and may leave the methane oxidation unit 115 in the F direction via a plurality of vents 135.

[0086] The inlet chamber 170 a includes a methane sensor 200 configured to monitor the amount of methane entering the inlet chamber 170 a and, thereby, the amount of methane oxidized in the oxidation unit 115 .

[0087] The lower chamber 170b includes a methane dilution unit including a plurality of dilution inlets 190 substantially located on the circumferential side of the methane oxidation unit 115. Gas from the external environment may enter the lower chamber 170b via the dilution inlet 190 and mix with the methane to be oxidized moving along the D direction. The concentration of methane in the gas from the external environment may be much lower than the concentration of methane in the fluid from the rumen 55. In this way, the concentration of methane in the fluid flowing toward the catalytic material 140 along the D direction is reduced.

[0088] The upper chamber 170c includes a cooling unit including a plurality of cooling inlets 195 substantially located on the circumferential side of the methane oxidation unit 115. Gas from the external environment may enter the upper chamber 170c via the cooling inlet 195 and mix with the oxidation reaction product from the catalytic material 140 moving in the E direction. The temperature of the gas from the external environment may be much lower than the temperature of the fluid from the rumen 55. In this way, the heat energy of the oxidized fluid is transferred to the gas from the external environment, and the temperature of the fluid flowing in the E direction toward the plurality of vents 135 is reduced.

[0089] The hollow member 105 includes a clearing member (not shown) configured to clear the accumulated material from the permeable mesh 125. The clearing member includes a silicone wedge adapted to the permeable mesh 125 and is periodically actuated over time when the pressure difference between the rumen 55 and the hollow member 105 is below a preset value.

[0090] The methane oxidation unit 115 also includes a Near Field Communication (NFC) sensor located in the methane oxidation unit 115. The NFC sensor is an integrated temperature sensor for monitoring the temperature of the catalyst and / or the surroundings of the catalyst, such as the temperature in the lower chamber 170b and / or the upper chamber 170c. The device 100 also includes a data transmission unit configured to wirelessly transmit data from the sensor to an external device. The temperature data from the sensor can be averaged to provide daily measurements. During the life cycle of the device 100, the device 100 can be scanned by an external NFC unit configured to receive data from the data transmission unit. This data can then be analyzed, for example, to monitor the amount of methane oxidized during the exothermic process, thereby verifying the emission reductions and ensuring transparency, traceability, and carbon offset monitoring.

[0091] The present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments or configurations shown; for example, more components than shown may be used in practice.

[0092] The present invention can be further understood by the following terms:

[0093] 1. A methane oxidation device for oxidizing methane from an animal digestive cavity, the device comprising:

[0094] at least one hollow member comprising a first portion and a second portion;

[0095] a piercing member for piercing a passage into a digestive cavity of an animal, the piercing member being located in a first portion of the at least one hollow member; and

[0096] a methane oxidation unit for oxidizing methane, the methane oxidation unit being located in the second portion of the at least one hollow member;

[0097] wherein a first portion of at least one hollow member is in fluid communication with an animal digestive cavity;

[0098] Wherein, the methane oxidation unit includes an inlet portion which is fluidically connected to the first portion of at least one hollow member, and, when the methane oxidation unit also includes an outlet portion which is fluidically connected to the external environment, methane from the animal digestive cavity is oxidized in the oxidation unit before being released to the external environment.

[0099] 2. The methane oxidation apparatus according to clause 1, wherein the methane oxidation unit is located between the at least one hollow member and the external environment.

[0100] 3. A methane oxidation unit according to clause 1 or clause 2, wherein the methane oxidation unit comprises at least one catalytic material.

[0101] 4. A methane oxidation apparatus according to clause 3, wherein at least one catalytic material is located between the inlet portion and the outlet portion, and at least a portion of the at least one catalytic material is arranged in a permeable configuration to allow fluid to flow from the inlet portion to the outlet portion.

[0102] 5. A methane oxidation device according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the methane oxidation device comprises a fixing member configured to removably fix the methane oxidation unit to the animal.

[0103] 6. A methane oxidation device according to claim 5, wherein the fixed member is located in a first portion of at least one hollow member and includes a retractable portion, wherein the methane oxidation device pulls the first portion toward the second portion to retract the retractable portion by retracting the channel leading to the cavity of the animal, and the retractable portion is configured to expand outwardly relative to the longitudinal axis of the at least one hollow member when it is retracted.

[0104] 7. A methane oxidation apparatus according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one hollow member comprises a valve located in the second portion and configured to prevent fluid from flowing out of the second portion of the at least one hollow member.

[0105] 8. A methane oxidation apparatus according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the outlet portion comprises a plurality of vents located on an outer surface of the methane oxidation unit.

[0106] 9. A methane oxidation device according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the methane oxidation device comprises a sensor.

[0107] 10. The methane oxidation device according to clause 9, wherein the methane oxidation device comprises a data transmission unit configured to transmit data from the sensor to an external device.

[0108] 11. A methane oxidation apparatus according to clause 9 or clause 10, wherein at least one hollow member comprises a flow regulator configured to prevent fluid from flowing into the methane oxidation unit when the sensor detects that a characteristic of the apparatus is at a preset threshold.

[0109] 12. A methane oxidation apparatus according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the methane oxidation unit comprises a thermal insulation layer configured to prevent heat transfer from the methane oxidation unit to the external environment.

[0110] 13. A methane oxidation apparatus according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the methane oxidation unit is dome-shaped.

[0111] 14. A methane oxidation apparatus according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein a first portion of at least one hollow member is in fluid communication with the external environment via a permeable mesh.

[0112] 15. A methane oxidation apparatus according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one hollow member comprises a clearing member configured to clear accumulated matter from at least a portion of the at least one hollow member.

[0113] 16. The methane oxidation apparatus according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the methane oxidation apparatus comprises a methane dilution unit configured to dilute the concentration of methane.

[0114] 17. A methane oxidation apparatus according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the methane oxidation apparatus comprises a cooling unit configured to reduce the temperature within the methane oxidation unit.

[0115] 18. A methane oxidation apparatus according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one hollow member comprises a buoyant member configured to float within an animal digestive cavity.

[0116] 19. An installation gun for installing a methane oxidation device according to any one of clauses 1 to 18, the installation gun comprising:

[0117] A methane oxidation equipment support configured to support a methane oxidation equipment according to any one of clauses 1 to 18;

[0118] an insertion unit configured to insert a portion of a methane oxidation device on a methane oxidation device holder into an animal digestive cavity;

[0119] an actuation member configured for actuation by a user of the insertion unit; and

[0120] An ignition component is used to generate a spark.

Claims

1. A methane oxidation device for oxidizing methane from an animal digestive cavity, the methane oxidation device comprising: A methane oxidation unit, for oxidizing methane; wherein: The methane oxidation unit includes an inlet portion in fluid communication with an external environment, the inlet portion further configured to be mounted on a hollow member in fluid communication with an animal digestive cavity; and When the methane oxidation unit further comprises an outlet portion in fluid communication with the external environment, methane from the animal digestive cavity is allowed to be oxidized in the oxidation unit before being released to the external environment.

2. The methane oxidation device according to claim 1, wherein: The methane oxidation device also includes: at least one hollow member, the at least one hollow member comprising a first portion and a second portion; and a piercing member for piercing a passage into the digestive cavity of the animal, the piercing member being located in the first portion of the at least one hollow member; The methane oxidation unit is located in the second portion of the at least one hollow member; Wherein, the first portion of the at least one hollow member is in fluid communication with the animal digestive cavity.

3. The methane oxidation device according to claim 2, wherein: The methane oxidation unit is located between the at least one hollow member and the external environment.

4. The methane oxidation unit according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The methane oxidation unit comprises at least one catalytic material.

5. The methane oxidation device according to claim 4, wherein: The at least one catalytic material is located between the inlet portion and the outlet portion, and at least a portion of the at least one catalytic material is disposed in a permeable configuration to allow fluid to flow from the inlet portion to the outlet portion.

6. The methane oxidation device according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein: The methane oxidation apparatus includes a securing member configured to removably secure the methane oxidation unit to an animal.

7. The methane oxidation device according to claim 6, wherein: The fixed member is located in the first part of the at least one hollow member and includes a retractable part, wherein the methane oxidation device pulls the first part toward the second part to retract the retractable part by retracting the channel leading to the cavity of the animal, and the retractable part is configured to expand outwardly relative to the longitudinal axis of the at least one hollow member when it is retracted.

8. The methane oxidation device according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein: The at least one hollow member includes a valve located in the second portion and configured to prevent fluid from flowing out of the second portion of the at least one hollow member.

9. The methane oxidation device according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein: The outlet portion includes a plurality of vents located on an exterior surface of the methane oxidation unit.

10. The methane oxidation device according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein: The methane oxidation device includes a sensor.

11. The methane oxidation device according to claim 10, wherein: The methane oxidation device includes a data transmission unit configured to transmit data from the sensor to an external device.

12. The methane oxidation device according to claim 10 or 11, wherein: The at least one hollow member includes a flow regulator configured to prevent fluid from flowing into the methane oxidation unit when the sensor detects that a characteristic of the device is at a preset threshold.

13. The methane oxidation apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 12, wherein: The methane oxidation unit includes a thermal insulation layer configured to prevent heat transfer from the methane oxidation unit to an external environment.

14. The methane oxidation apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 13, wherein: The methane oxidation unit is dome-shaped.

15. The methane oxidation apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 14, wherein: The first portion of the at least one hollow member is in fluid communication with the external environment via a permeable mesh.

16. The methane oxidation apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 15, wherein: The at least one hollow member includes a clearing member configured to clear accumulated matter from at least a portion of the at least one hollow member.

17. The methane oxidation apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 16, wherein: The methane oxidation device includes a methane dilution unit configured to dilute the concentration of methane.

18. The methane oxidation apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 17, wherein: The methane oxidation apparatus includes a cooling unit configured to reduce a temperature within the methane oxidation unit.

19. The methane oxidation apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 18, wherein: The at least one hollow member includes a buoyant member configured to float within the animal's digestive cavity.

20. An installation gun for installing a methane oxidation device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, the installation gun comprising: A methane oxidation equipment support, the methane oxidation equipment support being configured to support a methane oxidation equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 19; an insertion unit configured to insert a portion of the methane oxidation device on the methane oxidation device support into an animal digestive cavity; an actuation member configured for user actuation of the insertion unit; as well as An ignition component is used to generate a spark.

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