Solar automatic algae intercepting and collecting device

Abstract

The invention discloses a solar automatic algae intercepting and collecting device, which belongs to the technical field of water ecological management and comprises a solar power module, an intelligent control module, a flow guide and collection module and a conveying and dewatering module. The flow guiding and collecting module is provided with a rigid flow guiding assembly and a flexible flow field expansion assembly, the flexible assembly comprises a TPU flexible curtain with an adjustable mass balance weight, a low-flow-speed convergence curved surface or a vertical wave absorbing curtain wall can be formed in a self-adaptive mode according to the dynamic state of water flow, the effective interception width is remarkably expanded, and the wind wave adaptive capacity is improved. The conveying dehydration module adopts a closed-loop servo pressure control system, so that the gap and linear pressure of extrusion rollers can be accurately adjusted, and stable control of the water content of the algae cakes is realized; the conveying filter screen belt is provided with micro-conical meshes and a Venturi nozzle back flushing array, and blocking is effectively prevented. The device can adapt to an open water area and a near-shore environment, and integrated operation of efficient algae gathering, intelligent dehydration and low-energy-consumption operation is achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of water ecological management technology, and in particular to a solar-powered automatic algae interception and collection device. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, common methods for dealing with algal blooms (such as cyanobacterial blooms) in large bodies of water include manual harvesting, ship-based collection, and fixed containment barriers. These methods suffer from drawbacks such as low efficiency, high energy consumption, susceptibility to wind and waves, strong interference with non-target aquatic organisms, and difficulty adapting to changes in water flow. Especially for dispersed, drifting algae, traditional rigid flow-guiding structures are ineffective in collecting them and exhibit poor stability in high-turbulence or wave environments. Furthermore, the collected algae have a high water content, leading to high costs for direct transportation and treatment. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a low-energy, intelligent equipment that can adapt to water flow and wave conditions, efficiently collect and gather surface algae, and achieve preliminary algae-water separation. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide an automatic solar-powered algae interception and collection device. By setting up a flow-guiding and collection module with flexible flow field extension components, and utilizing the passive adaptive characteristics of the flexible curtain combined with active intelligent control, it achieves efficient, low-consumption, wide-area and highly adaptable algae aggregation and collection.

[0004] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention specifically provides the following technical solution: An automatic solar-powered algae interception and collection device includes a power module, an intelligent control module, a flow-guiding and collection module, and a conveying and dehydration module. The flow-guiding and collection module is equipped with a rigid flow-guiding component, which includes two adjustable-angle float-type flow-guiding arms. The front end of the rigid flow-guiding component is designed with a V-shaped or U-shaped opening, which can adjust the opening and closing angle and pitch angle in real time according to the water flow direction, algae distribution, and operating mode (fixed, floating, or shipborne mobile). Especially during shipborne mobile operation, the intelligent control module can dynamically adjust the angle of the flow-guiding arms according to the sailing speed and heading, so that it always maintains the optimal angle against the flow, ensuring that the algae are effectively introduced. Preferably, by dynamically narrowing or widening the angle, it can actively adapt to different algae aggregation densities and distribution widths, expanding the interception surface when the algae are sparse and narrowing the flow channel to increase the introduction flow velocity when the algae are dense, thereby reducing the retention and lateral escape of algae in the inlet area and improving the collection efficiency of mobile operation. The flow guiding and collecting module also includes a flexible flow field expansion component. This component comprises at least one flexible curtain connected to the outside of the rigid flow guiding component. The bottom of the flexible curtain has a counterweight, and its unfolded shape is adjustable, allowing it to passively adapt to and guide the water flow. When the water flow impacts the flexible curtain, it applies distributed fluid pressure to the curtain surface. Due to its unique flexible material properties, the flexible curtain can undergo localized and continuous bending deformation in different areas, automatically adjusting to a curved surface shape that adapts to the current water flow state, achieving a stable configuration with minimal fluid resistance. This process is entirely driven by natural hydraulics, requiring no external energy input, making it a highly efficient and energy-saving passive adaptation mechanism. During the flow field shaping process, when the flexible curtain naturally forms a slightly convex, gently curved surface under the action of the water flow, the water flow, upon contacting the curved surface, undergoes a smooth flow direction deflection along its tangent, resulting in a streamline distribution converging towards the center of the device. Because the curvature of the flexible curtain changes gradually and continuously, the water flow velocity gradually decreases, forming a stable low-velocity convergence area. Algae and other floating debris are guided smoothly and orderly into the rigid flow guide component, achieving fluid guidance from wide-area dispersion to efficient convergence, significantly improving capture efficiency and system adaptability. The unique flexible material properties of the flexible curtain allow its curved shape to be dynamically fine-tuned and adaptively optimized according to real-time water flow conditions. This characteristic ensures that the water flow convergence line guided by the flexible curtain always remains in a natural, smooth, and low-disturbance ideal state, thereby gently and efficiently transporting a wider range of more dispersed surface algae to the core collection area enclosed by the rigid flow guide component.

[0005] Specifically, the top of the flexible curtain is connected to an active retraction roller. The intelligent control module adjusts the tension and water depth of the flexible curtain by controlling the torque and retraction length of the active retraction roller, causing it to passively deform into a preset guide surface or wave-damping curtain shape under the action of water flow. The flexible curtain is made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) composite material with a hydrophobic coating. TPU material itself has excellent ductility and resilience, allowing the flexible curtain to undergo smooth and continuous bending and stretching deformation over a wide range without plastic damage or fatigue fracture. Compared to the adaptive guidance achieved by the flexible curtain, although traditional rigid curved surface structures can achieve basic water flow deflection and convergence, the rigid curved surface shape is fixed and cannot dynamically adjust the curvature and guiding angle according to the real-time water flow vector. In waters with varying flow direction and velocity, it is prone to flow field separation, eddies, or reflected turbulence, leading to an increased algae escape rate. The flexible curtain is made very thin and flexible, allowing it to easily change its shape under relatively small forces (such as the thrust of water flow or the tension of an active roll-up). Miniature tension sensors are distributed across the flexible curtain. The intelligent control module dynamically adjusts the active roll-up based on signals from these sensors and water flow sensors, thereby changing the curvature, water depth, and unfolded length of the flexible curtain to optimize the converging flow field. When water flows over the flexible curtain, it naturally "blows" it into a curved surface based on its current shape and tension. The intelligent control module utilizes this property, actively adjusting the curtain's tension to guide and utilize this passive deformation to achieve the desired flow field effect. More importantly, by adjusting the curvature and depth of the flexible curtain, the system can create a low-velocity converging flow field based on real-time water flow vectors, guiding surface algae from a wider area towards the center. This results in the equipment's effective working width far exceeding its physical width, leading to a non-linear increase in the total amount of algae captured in wide water surfaces or diffused flow areas (e.g., a physical width of 3 meters can result in an effective collection belt of 5-8 meters), significantly increasing the capture efficiency per unit of energy consumption. The flexible curtain dangling into the water is itself a highly efficient passive wave damper. Its flexibility absorbs and dissipates wave energy. Under the control of the intelligent control module, by actively adjusting the tension of the flexible curtain, a relatively calm buffer zone or guiding flow can be created, providing a calm working harbor for the subsequent rotating rake and conveyor filter belt. Algae gently converge and enter in an orderly manner in this area, ensuring the stability and efficiency of subsequent interception and dewatering processes.

[0006] Specifically, the rigid flow guiding assembly also includes an interception unit, which comprises a rotating rake disposed inside the float-type flow guiding arm. The rotating rake generates an induced flow field. When the blades of the rotating rake rotate, a low-pressure vortex zone is generated behind them. This hydrodynamic effect actively draws in the water flow that has initially converged inside the float-type flow guiding arm, forming a stable centripetal induced flow pointing towards the center of the device. This transitions the algae from the "guided convergence" stage to the "active capture" stage, significantly reducing algae retention and escape at the inlet. In open water or environments with irregular crossflows, passive flow guidance alone can easily disrupt the flow field in the core collection area. The directional induced flow generated by the continuous operation of the rotating rake acts as a rectifying agent, establishing a more stable core working area in terms of velocity and direction within the V-shaped or U-shaped inlet. This ensures that subsequent transport processes can be carried out efficiently in a predictable and controlled fluid environment.

[0007] Specifically, the conveying and dewatering module includes a conveying filter belt and a mechanical extrusion dewatering device. The mechanical extrusion dewatering device includes at least one extrusion roller, which is located at the discharge end of the conveying filter belt. The extrusion roller is connected to a pressure regulating mechanism, which is used to adjust the size of the extrusion gap. The pressure regulating mechanism is specifically a closed-loop servo pressure control system. This system mainly consists of a high-precision linear execution module and a sensor feedback unit. Specifically, the linear execution module includes a servo motor and a ball screw pair that works with it. After receiving instructions from the intelligent control module, the servo motor drives the ball screw to rotate, which is converted into linear displacement of the slider (and the extrusion roller connected to it) along the guide rail, thereby realizing the adjustment of the extrusion gap. The sensor feedback unit integrates a displacement sensor and a pressure sensor. The displacement sensor is used to detect the actual physical gap of the extrusion roller in real time, and its signal is used to realize precise closed-loop positioning control of the gap. The pressure sensor is used to measure the actual linear pressure acting on the algae material, and its signal is a direct mechanical feedback of the dewatering process, enabling the control system to achieve precise adjustment with pressure as the target. The intelligent control module comprehensively processes multiple signals from displacement sensors, pressure sensors, and upstream processes. It has a pre-built library of dehydration processes or adaptive algorithm models for different algal properties.

[0008] Specifically, the conveyor filter belt has mesh openings for fluid passage, and a Venturi nozzle array is positioned below the non-working surface of the conveyor filter belt. The spray direction of the Venturi nozzle array forms an angle of 20-60 degrees with the running direction of the conveyor filter belt. The micro Venturi nozzles utilize the low-pressure water flow in the water supply pipeline, accelerating it at its throat to form a high-speed, focused fine water jet. This jet possesses high kinetic energy, capable of penetrating the water film and loose algae layer attached to the conveyor filter belt. When this high-speed jet impacts the non-working surface of the conveyor filter belt at a certain angle (e.g., 30°), it does not reflect perpendicularly but instead "scoops" along the belt surface and mesh structure; this "scooping" action generates extremely strong shearing force between the jet and the belt surface, sufficient to peel off the adhered algae filaments.

[0009] Preferably, the mesh is a micro-conical channel structure with a gradually narrowing diameter from the working surface of the conveying filter belt to its non-working surface. The spray direction of the Venturi nozzle array forms an acute angle with the axial direction of the micro-conical channel structure, allowing the sprayed water to penetrate the mesh and form a reverse vortex scouring effect. Because the mesh is a micro-conical hole, a portion of the jet will enter the mesh. Due to the angle of incidence, the water cannot flow straight through the channel but will impact the hole wall, forming a rotating vortex. If the mesh is a straight hole, the vortex will quickly flow out from the other end after formation, with limited effect. If the mesh is micro-conical: during forward filtration, algae and water enter from the larger end and flow out from the smaller end, acting as an interceptor; during reverse cleaning, the high-speed jet enters from the smaller end (non-working surface). As the channel gradually widens, the water velocity decreases rapidly, and the pressure rises. According to fluid mechanics, this causes the vortex energy to dissipate more slowly within the channel, resulting in more intense rotation and a longer duration of action. In addition, the conical structure causes the pressure waves generated by the jet impact to be reflected and superimposed within the channel, forming weak high-frequency pressure pulsations (similar to miniature water hammers). These pulsations can effectively "loosen" the particles stuck in the channel.

[0010] Specifically, the power module includes a solar power generation unit, which includes an array of solar panels with adjustable tilt angle, and the solar panel array is electrically connected to a battery pack.

[0011] Specifically, the flow guiding and collecting module also includes a guide rail and a floating anchoring base. One end of the rigid flow guiding component is slidably connected to the guide rail and can move back and forth along the length of the guide rail. The other end of the rigid flow guiding component is connected to the floating anchoring base via a connecting part. The rigid flow guiding component can also be connected to a fixed anchoring base. The flow guiding and collecting module provides two optional deployment modes: floating anchoring and fixed anchoring. By adapting the same set of rigid flow guiding components to different bases, it achieves a high degree of environmental adaptability and operational flexibility. In the floating anchoring mode, the rigid flow guiding component forms a flexible connection system that passively adapts to water surface movements through a sliding connection at one end on the guide rail and a hinged connection at the other end to the floating anchoring base. The floating anchoring base, as the main carrier of the system, naturally rises and falls with the waves and water level, causing the entire flow guiding component to adjust its spatial attitude in real time. This allows the flow inlet, composed of a float-type guide arm and a flexible curtain, to continuously adjust its draft and pitch angle to follow water surface changes, maintaining the optimal interception position for surface algae. This is particularly suitable for open, deep water areas with significant water level fluctuations. In fixed anchoring mode, the rigid flow guide component can be switched to a fixed anchoring base. This base can be stably installed on the bottom of the water body or near-shore structures via pile foundations or counterweights, suitable for near-shore zones, bays, landscape water bodies with stable water levels, or sewage outlets. In this mode, the system maintains a stable posture, facilitating direct connection to onshore infrastructure such as power supply and material transport pipelines, enabling fixed-point, continuous, and efficient collection operations, and reducing the impact of equipment swaying caused by wind and waves on collection efficiency.

[0012] Preferably, the connecting part integrates a tilt sensor for detecting the pitch angle of the rigid flow guide component relative to the floating anchor base. The tilt sensor is communicatively connected to the intelligent control module. The intelligent control module uses a preset optimal working pitch angle as its target value. When the sensor detects that the actual angle deviates due to changes in waves or load, the intelligent control module can activate the drive mechanism to correct the pitch angle of the rigid flow guide component, ensuring it always maintains an ideal working posture. The intelligent control module can fuse and analyze the tilt angle data with curtain tension and water flow velocity data. For example, when the system determines that enhanced wave-damping effect is needed, it can instruct the rigid flow guide component to be adjusted to a specific pitch angle, allowing the flexible curtain to face the waves with a more vertical posture, while simultaneously increasing the curtain tension.

[0013] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: This invention provides a solar-powered automatic algae interception and collection device. Through structural innovation and deep integration of intelligent control, it achieves fully automated, efficient, low-consumption, and adaptive algae collection and dehydration throughout the entire process. The core of the device lies in the innovative introduction of a flexible flow field extension component into the flow guiding and collection module. This component is composed of a flexible thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) curtain with adjustable counterweight. Based on real-time water flow and wave conditions, it passively forms an optimal flow guiding surface or wave-damping curtain under hydraulic drive. Without external energy, it can gently and continuously gather widely dispersed algae into the collection core area, with an effective working width of more than 1.5 times the physical width, greatly improving capture efficiency and range adaptability. Simultaneously, the intelligent control module can actively optimize the flow field and powerfully dampen waves by adjusting the curtain tension, counterweight mass, and system pitch angle, creating a stable working environment for subsequent processes and significantly enhancing the device's all-weather operation capability in complex waters. In the conveying and dehydration stage, the device integrates a self-cleaning conveyor belt with a micro-conical mesh structure. It utilizes a Venturi nozzle array for reverse vortex scouring and high-frequency pulsed cleaning, effectively solving the problem of mesh clogging and ensuring the reliability of long-term continuous system operation. The entire device is solar-powered and supports flexible switching between floating and fixed anchoring modes, adapting to different deployment needs from open water to nearshore areas, achieving energy self-sufficiency and high environmental adaptability. This invention effectively overcomes the shortcomings of traditional algae harvesting methods, such as low efficiency, high energy consumption, and poor adaptability, providing a highly efficient, stable, energy-saving, and intelligent integrated solution for large-scale algal bloom control, with significant ecological benefits and application prospects. Attached Figure Description

[0014] To more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings in the following description are merely exemplary, and those skilled in the art can derive other embodiments based on the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0015] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an automatic algae interception and collection device.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the rigid flow guide component described in Embodiment 1.

[0017] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the power module and the conveying and dehydration module described in Embodiment 1.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the flexible flow field extension component described in Embodiment 1.

[0019] Figure 5This is a schematic diagram of the flexible flow field extension component in Mode A as described in Embodiment 1.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the flexible flow field extension component in Mode B as described in Embodiment 1.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the flow collection module described in Embodiment 1.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the conveyor filter belt described in Example 1.

[0023] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1-Solar power generation unit; 2-Rigid flow guide assembly; 201-Floating flow guide arm; 202-Rotating rake; 3-Guide rail; 4-Connecting part; 5-Floating anchoring base; 6-Fixed anchoring base; 7-Conveying filter belt; 701-Mesh; 702-Venturi nozzle array; 8-Mechanical extrusion dewatering device; 801-Extrusion roller; 802-Pressure regulating mechanism; 9-Flexible flow field expansion assembly; 901-Flexible curtain; 902-Counterweight; 903-Active winding and unwinding reel. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0025] The concepts involved in this application will first be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the following descriptions of various concepts are only for the purpose of making the content of this application easier to understand and do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this application; furthermore, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other unless otherwise specified. This application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0026] Example 1 See Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 7An automatic solar-powered algae interception and collection device includes a power module, an intelligent control module, a flow guiding and collection module, and a conveying and dehydration module. The flow guiding and collection module is equipped with a rigid flow guiding component 2, which includes two float-type flow guiding arms 201 with adjustable included angles. The flow guiding and collection module is also equipped with a flexible flow field expansion component 9, which includes at least one flexible curtain 901 connected to the outside of the rigid flow guiding component 2. The bottom of the flexible curtain is equipped with a counterweight 902, and the unfolding shape of the flexible curtain 901 is adjustable to passively adapt to and guide the water flow.

[0027] Furthermore, the flexible curtain 901 is made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) composite material with a hydrophobic coating on its surface. The TPU material itself has excellent ductility and resilience, allowing the flexible curtain 901 to undergo smooth, continuous bending and stretching deformation over a wide range without plastic damage or fatigue fracture. The flexible curtain 901 is made very thin and flexible, allowing it to easily change its bending shape under relatively small forces (such as the thrust of water flow or the tension of the active retractable roller 903). Miniature tension sensors are distributed on the flexible curtain 901. The intelligent control module dynamically adjusts the active retractable roller 903 based on signals from the miniature tension sensors and water flow sensors to change the curvature, water depth, and unfolding length of the flexible curtain 901, optimizing the forward converging flow field. When water flow impacts the flexible curtain 901, it naturally "blows" it into a certain curved surface according to the current shape and tension of the flexible curtain 901. The intelligent control module utilizes this principle, actively adjusting the tension of the flexible curtain 901 to guide and leverage this passive deformation to achieve the desired flow field effect. For example, relaxing the tension on one side will naturally push the flexible curtain 901 towards that side, forming a guide surface. (See [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 5 .

[0028] More importantly, by adjusting the curvature and depth of the flexible curtain 901, the system can create a low-velocity converging flow field based on real-time water flow vectors, guiding surface algae from a wider area towards the center. This results in the effective working width of the equipment far exceeding its physical width, leading to a non-linear increase in the total amount of algae captured in wide water surfaces or diffused flow areas (e.g., a physical width of 3 meters can result in an effective collection zone of 5-8 meters), significantly increasing the capture efficiency per unit of energy consumption. The flexible curtain 901, suspended in the water, is itself a highly efficient passive wave damper. Its flexibility absorbs and dissipates wave energy. Under the control of the intelligent control module, by actively adjusting the tension of the flexible curtain 901, a relatively calm buffer zone or guiding flow can be created, providing a calm working environment for the downstream rotating rake 202 and conveyor filter belt 7. Algae gently converge and enter in an orderly manner in this area, ensuring the stability and efficiency of subsequent interception and dewatering processes.

[0029] Based on sensor information, the system dynamically determines the target shape of the flexible curtain 901 using algorithms (such as rule-based control or simple model predictive control) and drives the actuators to achieve this. The main control modes include: Mode A. Maximum Convergence Mode (for dispersed algae): The flexible curtain 901 is fully extended to its maximum length, and the motor of the active retractor 903 is controlled to apply appropriate torque, causing the flexible curtain 901 to form a gently convex outward curved surface, such as... Figure 5 This shape acts like a funnel wall, gently guiding the water and algae from the outer edges towards the central area.

[0030] Mode B. Wave-damping and current-stabilizing mode (for windy and wavy waters): Releases the flexible curtain 901 and increases its tension, making it closer to a vertical "curtain wall" state, such as... Figure 6 Simultaneously, the depths of the flexible curtains 901 on both sides can be adjusted; for example, the flexible curtain 901 on the windward side can be placed deeper to better break up and absorb wave energy. Through tension and shape adjustments, a low-turbulence buffer zone is formed in front of the V-shaped / U-shaped inlet. Waves impacting rigid objects are reflected, while when impacting flexible bodies, some energy is converted into deformation and vibration of the flexible curtains 901 and dissipated. Active tension control can optimize this dissipation process, thereby creating a calmer water surface.

[0031] Furthermore, the top of the flexible curtain 901 is connected to an active retractable roller 903. The intelligent control module adjusts the tension and water immersion depth of the flexible curtain 901 by controlling the torque and retractable length of the active retractable roller 903, so that it is passively deformed into a preset guide surface or wave-damping curtain wall shape under the action of water flow.

[0032] See Figure 7 Furthermore, the rigid flow guiding component 2 also includes an interception unit, which comprises a rotating rake 202 disposed inside the float-type flow guiding arm 201. The rotating rake 202 is used to generate an induced flow field. When the blades of the rotating rake 202 rotate, a low-pressure vortex zone is generated behind it. This hydrodynamic effect actively draws in the water flow that has initially converged inside the float-type flow guiding arm 201, forming a stable centripetal induced flow pointing towards the center of the device. This transitions the algae from the "guided convergence" stage to the "active capture" stage, significantly reducing the retention and escape of algae at the inlet. In open water or environments with irregular crossflows, passive flow guidance alone can easily disrupt the flow field in the core collection area. The directional induced flow generated by the continuous operation of the rotating rake 202 acts as a rectifying agent, establishing a core working area with more stable flow velocity and direction inside the V-shaped or U-shaped inlet, ensuring that subsequent conveying processes can be carried out efficiently in a predictable and controlled fluid environment.

[0033] See Figure 3 Furthermore, the conveying and dewatering module includes a conveying filter belt 7 and a mechanical extrusion dewatering device 8. The mechanical extrusion dewatering device 8 includes at least one extrusion roller 801, which is disposed at the discharge end of the conveying filter belt 7. The extrusion roller 801 is connected to a pressure regulating mechanism 802, which is used to adjust the size of the extrusion gap.

[0034] The pressure regulating mechanism 802 is specifically a closed-loop servo pressure control system. This system mainly consists of a high-precision linear execution module and a sensor feedback unit. Specifically, the linear execution module includes a servo motor and a ball screw pair that works with it. After receiving instructions from the intelligent control module, the servo motor drives the ball screw to rotate, which is converted into linear displacement of the slider (and the connected extrusion roller) along the guide rail, thereby achieving adjustment of the extrusion gap. The sensor feedback unit integrates a displacement sensor and a pressure sensor. The displacement sensor is used to detect the actual physical gap of the extrusion roller 801 in real time, and its signal is used to achieve precise closed-loop positioning control of the gap. The pressure sensor is used to measure the actual linear pressure acting on the algae material, and its signal is a direct mechanical feedback of the dewatering process, enabling the control system to achieve precise adjustment with pressure as the target. The intelligent control module comprehensively processes multiple signals from the displacement sensor, pressure sensor, and upstream processes, and its internal components include a dewatering process library or adaptive algorithm model for different algae properties.

[0035] Workflow Example: After the device starts up, the conveyor filter belt 7 delivers algae with a moisture content of approximately 90% to the extrusion roller 801. The online detector transmits the initial moisture content signal to the intelligent control module. The module then calls the corresponding dewatering process curve, first instructing the servo motor to adjust the gap to 8mm for low-pressure pre-dewatering. Subsequently, based on real-time feedback of algae cake thickness and pressure data, the system gradually and precisely adjusts the gap to the final target value of 2.5mm in multiple stages, stabilizing the working pressure within the optimal range during this process. The entire process is fully automated, ultimately producing a uniform algae cake with a stable moisture content within the range of 70%-75%.

[0036] See Figure 8Furthermore, the conveyor filter belt 7 has mesh 701 for fluid passage, and a Venturi nozzle array 702 is disposed below the non-working surface of the conveyor filter belt 7. The spray direction of the Venturi nozzle array 702 forms an angle of 20-60 degrees with the running direction of the conveyor filter belt 7. The micro Venturi nozzles utilize the low-pressure water flow in the water supply pipeline, accelerating it at its throat to form a high-speed, focused fine water jet. This jet has high kinetic energy and can penetrate the water film and loose algae layer attached to the conveyor filter belt 7. When this high-speed jet impacts the non-working surface of the conveyor filter belt 7 at a certain angle (e.g., 30°), it will not be reflected perpendicularly, but will "scoop" along the surface of the belt and the mesh structure; this "scooping" action generates extremely strong shear force between the jet and the surface of the belt, which is sufficient to peel off the adhered algae filaments.

[0037] Furthermore, the mesh 701 is a micro-conical channel structure with a gradually decreasing diameter from the working surface of the conveying filter belt 7 to its non-working surface. The spray direction of the Venturi nozzle array 702 forms an acute angle with the axial direction of the micro-conical channel structure, allowing the sprayed water to penetrate the mesh 701 and form a reverse vortex that scours the mesh 701. Because the mesh 701 is a micro-conical hole, a portion of the jet will enter the mesh 701. Due to the angle of incidence, the water cannot pass through the channel in a straight line, but will impact the hole wall, forming a rotating vortex. If the mesh were a straight hole, the vortex would quickly flow out from the other end after it is formed, thus having limited effect. If the mesh is micro-conical: during forward filtration, algae and water enter from the larger end and flow out from the smaller end, acting as an interceptor; during reverse cleaning, a high-speed jet rushes in from the smaller end (non-working surface). As the channel gradually widens, the water velocity decreases rapidly, and the pressure rises. According to fluid mechanics, this causes the eddy energy to dissipate more slowly within the channel, resulting in more intense rotation and a longer duration of action. Furthermore, the conical structure causes the pressure waves generated by the jet impact to reflect and superimpose within the channel, forming weak, high-frequency pressure pulsations (similar to miniature water hammers). These pulsations effectively loosen particles stuck within the channel.

[0038] Furthermore, the power module includes a solar power generation unit 1, which includes an array of solar panels with adjustable tilt angle, and the solar panel array is electrically connected to a battery pack.

[0039] Furthermore, the flow guiding and collecting module also includes a guide rail 3 and a floating anchoring base 5. One end of the rigid flow guiding component 2 is slidably connected to the guide rail 3 and can move back and forth along the length of the guide rail 3. The other end of the rigid flow guiding component 2 is connected to the floating anchoring base 5 through a connecting part 4. The rigid flow guiding component 2 can also be connected to a fixed anchoring base 6. The flow guiding and collecting module provides two optional deployment modes: floating anchoring and fixed anchoring. By adapting the same set of rigid flow guiding components 2 to different bases, it achieves a high degree of environmental adaptability and operational flexibility. In the floating anchoring mode, the rigid flow guiding component 2 is connected to the floating anchoring base 5 through a sliding connection at one end on the guide rail 3 and a hinged connecting part 4 at the other end, forming a flexible connection system that can passively adapt to the movement of the water surface. The floating anchoring base 5, as the main carrier of the system, naturally rises and falls with the waves and water level, causing the entire flow guiding component to adjust its spatial attitude in real time. This allows the flow inlet, composed of the float-type guide arm 201 and the flexible curtain 901, to continuously follow water surface changes in draft and pitch angle, maintaining the optimal interception position for surface algae, making it particularly suitable for open, deep water areas with significant water level fluctuations. In fixed anchoring mode, the rigid guide component 2 can be switched to a fixed anchoring base 6. This base can be stably installed on the bottom of the water body or near-shore structures via pile foundations or counterweights, suitable for near-shore zones, bays, landscape water bodies with stable water levels, or sewage outlets. In this mode, the system maintains a stable posture, facilitating direct connection with onshore infrastructure such as power supply and material conveying pipelines, enabling fixed-point, continuous, and efficient collection operations, and reducing the impact of equipment swaying caused by wind and waves on collection efficiency.

[0040] Furthermore, the connecting part 4 integrates a tilt sensor to detect the pitch angle of the rigid flow guide component 2 relative to the floating anchor base 5. The tilt sensor is communicatively connected to the intelligent control module. The intelligent control module uses a preset optimal working pitch angle as its target value. When the sensor detects that the actual angle deviates due to changes in waves or load, the intelligent control module can activate the drive mechanism to correct the pitch angle of the rigid flow guide component 2, ensuring it maintains an ideal working posture. The intelligent control module can fuse and analyze the tilt angle data with curtain tension and water flow velocity data. For example, when the system determines that enhanced wave-damping effect is needed, it can instruct the rigid flow guide component 2 to be adjusted to a specific pitch angle, allowing the flexible curtain 901 to face the waves with a more vertical posture, while simultaneously increasing the curtain tension.

[0041] The intelligent control module uses an industrial-grade embedded processor as its central processing unit, with an embedded real-time operating system for multi-task scheduling and real-time data response. The module integrates a multi-channel sensor interface, an actuator drive unit, a communication module, and a power management unit. The sensor interface connects to sensing elements distributed across key parts of the device, including: a miniature tension sensor on the surface of the flexible curtain 901, a water flow sensor installed in the flow inlet area, an angle sensor integrated into the connecting part 4, a pressure sensor installed at the extrusion roller 801, and a displacement sensor in the pressure regulating mechanism 802. The actuator drive unit is electrically connected to the solenoid valves of the active winding and unwinding shaft 903, the rotary rake 202, the pressure regulating mechanism 802, the Venturi nozzle array 702, and the counterweight 902, adjusting the working state of each actuator according to control commands. The communication module supports wired or wireless communication for data interaction with a remote monitoring platform. The power management module is electrically connected to the solar power generation unit 1 and the battery pack, enabling intelligent energy scheduling and low-power operation control.

[0042] Example 2 In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the counterweight 902 at the bottom of the flexible curtain 901 is designed to be gravity-adjustable. An active retraction roller 903 is connected to the top of the flexible curtain 901. The counterweight 902 is adjustable in mass. The intelligent control module adjusts the tension and water immersion depth of the flexible curtain 901 by controlling the torque and retraction length of the active retraction roller 903 and the mass of the counterweight 902, causing it to passively deform into a preset guide surface or wave-damping curtain shape under the action of water flow.

[0043] The counterweight 902 includes a sealed cavity with an inlet and an outlet. The inlet and outlet are connected to a solenoid valve. The intelligent control module controls the solenoid valve to inject or drain water into the sealed cavity based on signals from a flow sensor and a tension sensor, thereby adjusting the mass of the counterweight 902. The intelligent control module dynamically adjusts the mass of the counterweight 902 based on real-time collected data on water flow velocity, wave height, and flexible curtain tension, thereby optimizing the hydrodynamic morphology of the flexible curtain 901 under different operating conditions.

[0044] In Mode A (Maximum Convergence Mode): The intelligent control module maintains the counterweight 902 at a moderate mass level, allowing the flexible curtain 901 to naturally droop to a suitable depth in slow-flowing water, passively forming a gently convex outward curved surface under the influence of water flow. This surface acts like a gradually expanding funnel wall, gently guiding surface algae over a wider area towards the central convergence zone. If the water flow velocity increases, the system can slightly increase the counterweight mass to enhance the curtain's resistance to flow and prevent excessive deformation; if the water flow slows down, the counterweight is appropriately reduced to keep the curtain smoothly unfolded. Through this dynamic adjustment, the equipment can still achieve a significant expansion of the effective collection zone width even with limited physical width, increasing the total amount of dispersed algae captured.

[0045] In Mode B (wave suppression and current stabilization mode): The intelligent control module significantly increases the mass of the counterweight 902, allowing the flexible curtain 901 to sink deeper and adopt a posture closer to a vertical curtain wall. The heavier counterweight enhances the curtain's inertia, effectively suppressing its lateral swaying and upward floating tendency under wave impact, thereby improving its wave-damping and flow-stabilizing performance. Furthermore, the system can implement differentiated counterweight adjustments based on wind direction and wave direction: for example, injecting more water into the counterweight on the upwind side of the curtain to further increase its vertical depth, thus more effectively breaking up and absorbing the energy of the oncoming waves; while maintaining a relatively lighter counterweight on the leeward side to form a wave-damping gradient. This actively creates a low-turbulence buffer zone in front of the V-shaped / U-shaped flow inlet, providing a stable working environment for the downstream rotating rake 202, conveyor filter belt 7, and other components, ensuring the continuous and reliable operation of the interception and dewatering processes under wind and wave conditions.

[0046] Through the aforementioned coordinated control, the gravity-adjustable counterweight 902 not only achieves precise control of the shape of the flexible curtain 901, but also makes it an intelligent adaptive component integrating flow field guidance, wave dissipation, and system protection, significantly improving the overall performance and energy efficiency of the device in complex aquatic environments.

[0047] To achieve a higher level of intelligent operation and energy consumption optimization, the intelligent control module of this invention further integrates a process linkage and cycle control strategy based on counterweight adjustment. The core of this strategy lies in the periodic and proactive adjustment of the mass of the counterweight 902. When the density of enriched algae reaches a preset threshold, the intelligent control module actively adjusts the mass of the counterweight 902 to reduce its gravity. This operation causes the bottom of the flexible curtain 901 to rise, allowing the enriched algae to flow into the core collection area of ​​the flow-guiding collection module in a pulse-enhanced manner. Based on this, the start-up, shutdown, and power of subsequent high-energy-consuming processes are intelligently scheduled to achieve system-level energy-saving operation.

[0048] It should be noted that the terminology used in this application is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. As shown in this specification, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, words such as "a," "an," "an," and / or "the" do not specifically refer to the singular and may include the plural. The terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, or apparatus that includes a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0049] It should also be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on this application. Unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installed," "connected," "linked," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication between two elements. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0050] The embodiments and / or implementation methods described above are merely preferred embodiments and / or implementation methods for implementing the technology of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the implementation methods of the technology of the present invention in any way. Any person skilled in the art may make some modifications to other equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the technical means disclosed in the content of the present invention, but these should still be regarded as the technology or embodiments that are substantially the same as the present invention. This document uses specific examples to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The descriptions of the above embodiments are only for the purpose of helping to understand the methods and core ideas of this application. The above descriptions are only preferred embodiments of this application. It should be noted that due to the limitations of written expression, while there are objectively infinite specific structures, those skilled in the art can make several improvements, modifications, or changes without departing from the principles of this application, and can also combine the above technical features in an appropriate manner. These improvements, modifications, changes, or combinations, or the direct application of the inventive concept and technical solution to other situations without modification, should all be considered within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A solar-powered automatic algae interception and collection device, characterized in that, It includes a power module, an intelligent control module, a flow guiding and collection module, and a conveying and dewatering module. The flow guiding and collection module is equipped with a rigid flow guiding component (2). The rigid flow guiding component (2) includes two float-type flow guiding arms (201) with adjustable included angle. The flow guiding and collection module is also equipped with a flexible flow field expansion component (9). The flexible flow field expansion component (9) includes at least one flexible curtain (901) connected to the outside of the rigid flow guiding component (2). The bottom of the flexible curtain is equipped with a counterweight (902), and the unfolding shape of the flexible curtain (901) is adjustable, which is used to passively adapt to and guide the water flow.

2. The solar-powered algae automatic interception and collection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The top of the flexible curtain (901) is connected to an active retraction roller (903). The intelligent control module adjusts the tension and water depth of the flexible curtain (901) by controlling the torque and retraction length of the active retraction roller (903), so that it is passively deformed into a preset guide surface or wave-damping curtain wall shape under the action of water flow.

3. The solar-powered algae automatic interception and collection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rigid flow guide assembly (2) also includes an interception unit, which includes a rotating rake (202) disposed inside the float-type flow guide arm (201) and the rotating rake (202) is used to generate an induced flow field.

4. The solar-powered algae automatic interception and collection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conveying and dewatering module includes a conveying filter belt (7) and a mechanical extrusion dewatering device (8). The mechanical extrusion dewatering device (8) includes at least one extrusion roller (801), which is located at the discharge end of the conveying filter belt (7).

5. The solar-powered algae automatic interception and collection device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The extrusion roller (801) is connected to a pressure regulating mechanism (802), which is used to adjust the size of the extrusion gap.

6. The solar-powered algae automatic interception and collection device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The conveying filter belt (7) has mesh (701) for fluid to pass through, and a Venturi nozzle array (702) is provided below the non-working surface of the conveying filter belt (7). The spraying direction of the Venturi nozzle array (702) is at an angle of 20-60 degrees to the running direction of the conveying filter belt (7).

7. The solar-powered algae automatic interception and collection device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The mesh (701) is a micro-conical channel structure with a gradually decreasing diameter from the working surface of the conveying filter belt (7) to its non-working surface. The spray direction of the Venturi nozzle array (702) forms an acute angle with the axial direction of the micro-conical channel structure, so that the sprayed water can penetrate the mesh (701) and form a reverse vortex scouring of the mesh (701).

8. The solar-powered algae automatic interception and collection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power module includes a solar power generation unit (1), which includes an array of solar panels with adjustable tilt angle, and the solar panel array is electrically connected to a battery pack.

9. The solar-powered algae automatic interception and collection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow collection module also includes a guide rail (3) and a floating anchor base (5). One end of the rigid flow guide component (2) is slidably connected to the guide rail (3) and can move back and forth along the length direction of the guide rail (3). The other end of the rigid flow guide component (2) is connected to the floating anchor base (5) through a connecting part (4).

10. The solar-powered algae automatic interception and collection device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The connecting part (4) integrates an angle sensor for detecting the pitch angle of the rigid flow guide assembly (2) relative to the floating anchor base (5). The angle sensor is communicatively connected to the intelligent control module.

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