A feeding device for a net cage

Abstract

The utility model relates to a kind of baiting devices of breeding net cage, it includes float, pull rope, limit guide rope and elastic folding passage, the bottom of the elastic folding passage is connected with breeding net cage, and the elastic folding passage is communicated with the baiting import of breeding net cage;The top of the elastic folding passage is connected float by pull rope;One end of the limit guide rope is connected with float, the other end of the limit guide rope is connected with breeding net cage, and the elastic folding passage is slidably connected relative to limit guide rope.The utility model can be stored in the time without baiting, when needed, baiting passage leading to breeding net cage (located underwater) can be quickly and conveniently constructed on water surface, so that baiting device is avoided to be destroyed by wind and sea current in long time in stretched state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of aquaculture technology, and in particular to a feeding device for aquaculture cages. Background Technology

[0002] Aquaculture cages are tools used in deep-sea aquaculture, mainly composed of a frame system, netting, a fixing system, and supporting facilities. They utilize the interaction of the fixed platform and the inherent characteristics of the cage itself to lower it to a limited underwater depth, thus possessing strong resistance to wind and waves. Furthermore, aquaculture cages offer advantages such as long service life, large effective aquaculture volume, high efficiency, low overall cost, low pollution, excellent water quality, low fish mortality, and high-quality fish products.

[0003] Currently, there are two main methods for feeding aquaculture cages: the first is to float the cages and then scatter feed on the surface; the second is to construct a feeding channel between the boat (or floating platform) and the cages, and then pump the feed into the cages through the channel. The first method is difficult to operate, time-consuming, and labor-intensive, and improper control of the cages' buoyancy can lead to the death of aquatic life. The second method is more difficult to implement, often requiring diving assistance. Furthermore, ocean currents exert a significant force on the feeding channel, and the longer the channel, the greater the impact, making it difficult to maintain the feeding channel. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a feeding device for aquaculture cages, which can be stored away when feeding is not needed, and can quickly and conveniently construct a feeding channel leading to the aquaculture cages (located underwater) on the water surface when needed, thereby avoiding the feeding device being in an extended state for a long time and being easily damaged by wind, waves and ocean currents.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model discloses a feeding device for an aquaculture cage. The aquaculture cage has a feeding inlet at its top. It includes a float, a pull rope, a limiting guide rope, and an elastic folding channel. The bottom of the elastic folding channel is connected to the aquaculture cage, and the elastic folding channel communicates with the feeding inlet of the aquaculture cage. The top of the elastic folding channel is connected to the float via the pull rope. One end of the limiting guide rope is connected to the float, and the other end of the limiting guide rope is connected to the aquaculture cage. The elastic folding channel is slidably connected relative to the limiting guide rope.

[0006] With the above setup, the guide rope ensures the float remains within a certain area above the aquaculture cage, preventing it from being pulled by the current and ensuring the flexible folding channel remains folded and retracted. Furthermore, when the flexible folding channel is extended, the guide rope prevents excessive deformation under current, which could affect feed delivery. The float allows operators to easily reach the guide rope from the water's surface. Pulling the rope unfolds the channel, extending it to the surface for sinking feed. After feeding, the top of the channel is tied, releasing the guide rope. The channel retracts back into the cage under its own elasticity. In its retracted state, the channel experiences less current force, extending its lifespan.

[0007] Preferably, the elastic folding channel includes a net cylinder, several connecting rings, and several first elastic elements. The net cylinder is made of flexible netting. The connecting rings are spaced apart along the length of the net cylinder, and the net cylinder is connected to the connecting rings. Each pair of adjacent connecting rings is connected by at least one first elastic element. This arrangement, using a flexible net with fine mesh to support the net cylinder, prevents bait leakage and reduces the force of ocean currents on the net cylinder. The connecting rings ensure that the inner cavity of the net cylinder opens when extended, facilitating the sinking of the bait. The first elastic elements connect each pair of adjacent connecting rings, preventing the elastic force from directly acting on the net cylinder, making it less prone to damage and extending its service life.

[0008] Preferably, the mesh cylinder is integrally formed; or, the mesh cylinder comprises several segments connected in series by connecting rings. Dividing the mesh cylinder into several segments facilitates manufacturing, and in case of damage, only the damaged segment needs to be replaced, which is convenient for maintenance.

[0009] Preferably, the elastic folding channel further includes several limiting rings, the size of which is smaller than the connecting rings; a limiting ring is provided between every pair of adjacent connecting rings, the limiting rings being sleeved on the outer periphery of the mesh tube, or the mesh tube being sleeved on the outer periphery of the positioning ring; the positioning ring is connected to the mesh tube. By providing the positioning rings, the mesh tube can be narrowed, making it less likely for the mesh tube and mesh fabric to affect the contraction of the first elastic element when the mesh tube is folded and stored, allowing the adjacent connecting rings to be stacked together better.

[0010] Preferably, the mesh cylinder is sleeved on the outer periphery of the limiting ring, and at least one second elastic element is provided between each pair of adjacent limiting rings, the second elastic element connecting the pairs of adjacent limiting rings. This arrangement can improve the contraction capability of the elastic folding channel.

[0011] Preferably, the cross-sectional area of ​​the net tube located between each pair of adjacent connecting rings decreases from the ends to the middle. With this arrangement, the net tube in its extended state is less prone to wrinkles, thereby avoiding affecting bait delivery (wrinkles may also trap bait).

[0012] Preferably, the elastic folding channel is sleeved on the limiting guide rope. This arrangement makes connection convenient and simple.

[0013] Preferably, the system further includes several fixing ropes, one end of which is connected to the float, and the other end of which is connected to the aquaculture cage. The connection points between the fixing ropes and the aquaculture cage are spaced apart from the feeding inlet, and these connection points are spaced apart circumferentially around the feeding inlet. By using fixing ropes, the stability of the feeding channel can be better maintained.

[0014] Preferably, the top of the elastic folding channel is provided with a drawstring for tightening the top opening of the elastic folding channel; an escape-proof net can be optionally installed on the feeding inlet or the bottom opening of the elastic folding channel. The drawstring allows for easy opening and closing of the elastic folding channel, thus preventing escape. Placing the escape-proof net close to the aquaculture cage can prevent farmed fish from entering the feeding channel.

[0015] Preferably, a signal generator is installed in the float. This arrangement makes it easier for workers to locate the float from a boat.

[0016] This utility model has the following beneficial effects:

[0017] This invention, by incorporating a limiting guide rope, ensures that the float remains within a certain area above the aquaculture cage on the water surface. This prevents the float from being pulled by the rope under the force of ocean currents, thus ensuring the elastic folding channel remains in its folded, stowed state. Furthermore, when the elastic folding channel is extended, the limiting guide rope can prevent excessive deformation under the influence of ocean currents, which could affect feed delivery. The float allows operators to easily reach the rope while still on the water's surface. Pulling the rope unfolds the elastic folding channel, extending it to the surface, where sinking feed can be delivered – a convenient operation. After feeding, the top of the elastic folding channel is tied, and the rope is released. The channel retracts back into the aquaculture cage under its own elastic force. In its stowed state, the elastic folding channel is less affected by ocean currents and less susceptible to damage from wind, waves, and currents, extending its service life. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the present invention (the elastic folding channel is in an extended state).

[0019] Figure 2This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the present invention (the elastic folding channel is in the storage state).

[0020] Figure 3 This is a frontal view of the present invention (the elastic folding channel is in an extended state).

[0021] Figure 4 This is a frontal view of the present invention (the elastic folding channel is in the storage state).

[0022] Figure 5 for Figure 3 Enlarged schematic diagram of part A in the middle.

[0023] Figure 6 for Figure 4 Enlarged schematic diagram of section B.

[0024] Figure 7 for Figure 5 Enlarged schematic diagram of section C.

[0025] Note: Figure 2 Only a portion of the aquaculture cages is shown in the image.

[0026] Explanation of symbols for main components:

[0027] 10 aquaculture cages;

[0028] Floating body 20;

[0029] Pull rope 31, fixing rope 32, limit guide rope 33;

[0030] Elastic folding channel 40, net tube 41, connecting ring 42, limiting ring 43, first elastic element 44, and closing rope 45;

[0031] Water surface 50. Detailed Implementation

[0032] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0033] like Figure 1-7 As shown, this utility model discloses a feeding device for an aquaculture cage 10. A feeding inlet is provided at the top of the aquaculture cage 10 to facilitate feeding. The feeding device includes a float 20, a pull rope 31, a fixing rope 32, a limiting guide rope 33, and an elastic folding channel 40. The float 20 can be a buoy, on which a signal generator is installed for easy tracking and locating.

[0034] One end of the limiting guide rope 33 is connected to the float 20, and the other end is connected to the edge of the feeding inlet. Multiple connecting ropes can be evenly distributed around the circumference of the feeding inlet, and the limiting guide rope 33 is connected to these connecting ropes so that the lower end of the limiting guide rope 33 is located at the center of the feeding inlet, facilitating feed delivery. By connecting the float 20 to the limiting guide rope 33, the float 20 can be confined within a certain range above the water surface 50 of the aquaculture cage 10.

[0035] The fixing rope 32 is connected at one end to the float 20 and at the other end to the frame of the aquaculture cage 10. The connection point between the fixing rope 32 and the aquaculture cage 10 is spaced apart from the feeding inlet, and the connection points between the fixing rope 32 and the aquaculture cage 10 are spaced apart circumferentially around the feeding inlet. The fixing rope 32 can better limit the position of the float 20, thereby ensuring the stability of the feeding channel.

[0036] The elastic folding channel 40 includes a net tube 41, several connecting rings 42, several limiting rings 43, and several first elastic elements 44. The net tube 41 is made of a flexible net with fine mesh. The net tube 41 is fitted onto the limiting guide rope 33. The bottom opening of the net tube 41 communicates with the bait inlet, and the top opening of the net tube 41 can extend to the water surface 50. The bottom opening of the net tube 41 is connected to the frame of the bait inlet by means of connecting rings 42, which makes the net of the net tube 41 less prone to damage. The connecting rings 42 are spaced apart along the length of the net tube 41. The net tube 41 is connected to the connecting rings 42, and the setting of the connecting rings 42 can open the net tube 41 well. The net tube 41 can be integrally formed, that is, the net tube 41 is not divided into multiple segments. As an alternative, the net tube 41 is divided into several segments, which are connected in series by connecting rings 42 to form a complete feeding channel. The latter is preferred, as it facilitates manufacturing and later maintenance.

[0037] Two adjacent connecting rings 42 are connected by at least one first elastic element 44. Preferably, at least two first elastic elements 44 are connected between two adjacent connecting rings 42, and the first elastic elements 44 are evenly distributed to facilitate synchronous contraction. To avoid interference of the flexible netting during contraction, a limiting ring 43 is provided between two adjacent connecting rings 42. The limiting ring 43 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the net cylinder 41 and is connected to the net cylinder 41. In addition, the cross-sectional area of ​​the net cylinder 41 (i.e., a section of the cylinder) located between two adjacent connecting rings 42 decreases from the end to the middle, and the position with the smallest cross-sectional area is the connection position of the limiting ring 43. With this arrangement, the net cylinder 41 in the extended state is less prone to wrinkles, thereby avoiding affecting bait placement and preventing possible wrinkles from trapping bait.

[0038] Alternatively, the net tube 41 is fitted around the outer periphery of the limiting ring, and adjacent limiting rings are connected by at least one second elastic element. This arrangement improves the contraction capability of the elastic folding channel 40. The first elastic element 44 and the second elastic element can be elastic ropes.

[0039] One end of the pull rope 31 is connected to the float 20, and the other end is connected to the connecting ring 42 at the top of the net tube 41 to prevent damage to the flexible netting. Multiple pull ropes 31 can be installed. In addition, the length of the pull rope 31 must be greater than the length of the limiting guide rope 33.

[0040] Under normal conditions (i.e., non-feeding state), the net cylinder 41 can be folded and stored above the feed inlet under the weight of the connecting ring 42, the weight of the limiting ring 43, and the elastic force of the elastic element. When feeding is needed, the pull rope 31 is pulled upward to lengthen the net cylinder 41, thereby establishing a feeding channel from the water surface 50 to the aquaculture cage 10. After feeding is completed, the pull rope 31 is released, and the net cylinder 41 retracts and folds under the weight of the connecting ring 42, the weight of the limiting ring 43, and the elastic force of the elastic element, completing the storage.

[0041] To prevent the fish from escaping while the container is in its stored state, a drawstring 45 is provided at the top of the net cylinder 41 to tighten the top opening of the elastic folding channel 40. In addition, an escape-proof net can be installed at the feeding inlet or the bottom opening of the elastic folding channel 40. Generally, an escape-proof net is more suitable when the fish being farmed are of a larger size. In this way, the mesh size of the escape-proof net can be set to be larger to avoid blocking the passage of the bait.

[0042] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model, but the protection scope of the present utility model is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present utility model should be included within the protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A feeding device for aquaculture cages, wherein the top of the aquaculture cages is provided with a feeding inlet; characterized in that: The device includes a float, a pull rope, a limiting guide rope, and an elastic folding channel. The bottom of the elastic folding channel is connected to the aquaculture cage, and the elastic folding channel is connected to the feeding inlet of the aquaculture cage. The top of the elastic folding channel is connected to the float via the pull rope. One end of the limiting guide rope is connected to the float, and the other end of the limiting guide rope is connected to the aquaculture cage. The elastic folding channel is slidably connected relative to the limiting guide rope.

2. The feeding device for the aquaculture cage according to claim 1, characterized in that: The elastic folding channel includes a mesh cylinder, a plurality of connecting rings, and a plurality of first elastic elements. The mesh cylinder is made of flexible mesh. The connecting rings are spaced apart along the length of the mesh cylinder, and the mesh cylinder is connected to the connecting rings. Each pair of adjacent connecting rings is connected by at least one first elastic element.

3. The feeding device for the aquaculture cage according to claim 2, characterized in that: The mesh cylinder is integrally formed; or, the mesh cylinder comprises several cylinder segments connected in series by connecting rings.

4. The feeding device for the aquaculture cage according to claim 2, characterized in that: The elastic folding channel also includes several limiting rings, the size of which is smaller than that of the connecting rings; a limiting ring is provided between each pair of adjacent connecting rings, the limiting rings being sleeved on the outer periphery of the mesh cylinder, or the mesh cylinder being sleeved on the outer periphery of the limiting rings; the limiting rings are connected to the mesh cylinder.

5. The feeding device for the aquaculture cage according to claim 4, characterized in that: The mesh cylinder is sleeved on the outer periphery of the limiting ring, and at least one second elastic element is provided between each pair of adjacent limiting rings. The second elastic element connects the two pairs of adjacent limiting rings.

6. The feeding device for the aquaculture cage according to claim 2, characterized in that: The cross-sectional area of ​​the mesh tube located between each pair of adjacent connecting rings decreases from the ends to the middle.

7. The feeding device for the aquaculture cage according to claim 1, characterized in that: The elastic folding channel is fitted onto the limiting guide rope.

8. The feeding device for the aquaculture cage according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes several fixing ropes, one end of which is connected to the float and the other end of which is connected to the aquaculture cage. The connection nodes between the fixing ropes and the aquaculture cage are spaced apart from the feeding inlet, and the connection nodes between the fixing ropes and the aquaculture cage are spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the feeding inlet.

9. The feeding device for the aquaculture cage according to claim 1, characterized in that: The top of the elastic folding channel is provided with a drawstring for tightening the top opening of the elastic folding channel; an escape-proof net may be optionally provided on the bait inlet or the bottom opening of the elastic folding channel.

10. The feeding device for the aquaculture cage according to claim 1, characterized in that: A signal generator is installed in the float.

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