Algae control by sweeping ultrasonic frequencies

Abstract

Apparatus for controlling bio-organisms by way of sweeping frequencies emitted by an underwater ultrasonic transducer. An ultrasonic control system includes a processor, an exciter, and at least one transducer. The processor generates signals received by an exciter that causes the transducer to emit a sweeping series of frequencies combined with a pulse or gated output that has a duty cycle. Each pulse or gated output includes one or more frequencies. The apparatus has a gradual remediation startup mode for the condition of high algae concentration. Multiple stages gradually incapacitate the algae until a steady state stage is able to maintain control of algae levels. The first remediation stage has an extended off-time between pulses. The following stages reduce the off-time between pulses until the final, steady state stage.

Description

TITLEAlgae control by sweeping ultrasonic frequenciesCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 587,344, filed October 2, 2023.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not ApplicableBACKGROUND

[0003] 1. Field of Invention

[0004] This invention pertains to controlling algae, biofilm, diatoms, and bioorganisms in bodies of water by way of field sweeping ultrasonic sound pressure frequencies. More particularly, this invention pertains to underwater ultrasonic systems that emit a series of sweeping frequencies to control certain organisms in a liquid.

[0005] 2. Description of the Related Art

[0006] Algae is a large, diverse group of photosynthetic organisms that often thrive in a water environment. When a body of water has an abundance of nutrients, algae thrives. Depending upon the type of algae, the algae growth may be beneficial or detrimental to the health of the body of water. For example, filamentous green algae and blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) are known for adversely affecting the health of a body of water when they grow in abundance.

[0007] Filamentous green algae is generally considered a nuisance that interferes with boater access, recreation, and aesthetics of the body of water. Green algae grows in mats, which can be physically removed from the water by raking or other means. An excess of blue-green algae form surface blooms that are thick scums on the surface, typically near the shoreline. Some species of blue-green algae produce potent toxins that affect other aquatic and animal life. Blue-greenalgae are not edible, generally, and they produce an unpleasant odor when they decompose.

[0008] Control of undesirable algae, such as single cell, colonial, and filamentous green algae and cyanobacteria, commonly known as blue-green algae, can be accomplished by controlling the nutrient supply in the water. Without sufficient nutrients, the growth of algae will be limited. Unfortunately, controlling the nutrients in a body of water is often difficult because controlling the entry of nutrients into a body of water requires controlling the watershed. Both storm water drainage and agricultural drainage provide nutrients, and such sources are often difficult to manage.

[0009] Controlling undesirable algae by introducing chemicals into a body of water creates additional problems, particularly when the body of water contains other plant and animal life, such as commonly found in lakes, ponds, and streams. When the body of water is a swimming pool, hot tub, or spa, chemicals are often used to control or eliminate undesirable algae growth.

[0010] Another way to control undesirable algae growth is to reduce or remove the sunlight that the algae require for photosynthesis. Floating plants, such a lilies and lotus, block the sunlight from penetrating the surface, thereby restricting the light reaching the algae. Other aquatic plants are grown in bodies of water to absorb the nutrients that the algae require to flourish. For many bodies of waters, such as lakes and large ponds, adding plants is not practical.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an algae control system that emits ultrasonic waves from a transducer excited with frequencies sweeping through a range is provided. The algae control system emits ultrasonic sound pressure frequency waves at frequencies that are lethal to bioorganisms and is averse to colonization of some microorganisms, such as biofilm. The ultrasonic frequencies are emitted at frequencies matching or close to matching the structural resonance of key components within algae such as the vacuole, internal cell structures, and mobility components such as flagella, thereby killing the organisms or incapacitating them. The mechanism that results in algae death varies depending upon the type of algae. For most algae, ultrasonic wavesincapacitates algae, causing the algae to sink. As the algae sink, their exposure to sunlight decreases and, over time, the algae dies.

[0012] To achieve critical structural resonance, a specific frequency is needed to be applied to each one of a variety of species of algae. In one embodiment, critical structural resonance is achieved for various algae by emitting a spectrum of frequencies, for example 20kHz to 120kHz, that is created in discrete frequencies such as every 100Hz between 20kHz and 120kHz resulting in 1000 discrete frequencies. If each discrete frequency is produced once per second, 1000 seconds is needed before the pattern of frequency production is repeated. It may be that only one of the 1000 frequencies is effective in achieving critical structural resonance. Generally, not all of the organisms in a harmful algal bloom (HAB) or colony will be disabled during a single sweep. If the sweeps are too far apart, the HAB or colony will survive and grow enough to reestablish the losses occurring during a single sweep. Increasing the number of frequencies produced per second will subject the HAB or colony to enough killing or incapacitating events to prevent the HAB or colony from surviving.

[0013] The algae control system includes a power supply unit, a controller or processor, an exciter, and at least one ultrasonic transducer unit configured to be positioned in a body of fluid, such as water. The power supply unit provides power and control signals to the transducer unit.

[0014] The controller or processor is a device that controls the ultrasonic transducer. The processor sends an excitation signal or frequency waveform to an exciter, which drives the transducer at that frequency to emit ultrasonic frequency waves. The excitation signal includes a series of pulses or gated events separated by a Time Off or zero signal state. Each pulse or gated event includes a series of discrete frequency signals within a sub-range of the full frequency range of operation. The sub-range for each pulse is different than the other pulses until all the sub-ranges are utilized. In this way, the emitted ultrasonic wave includes a multitude of frequencies within a short period.

[0015] Another aspect of control of algae that shares the water with other aquatic life, such as farmed fish, is to control the algae without adversely impacting the other aquatic life. If the algae in the water is incapacitated too quickly and sinks to the bottom where it accumulates before dying, oxygen in the water can be depleted to a level that other aquatic life cannot survive. To prevent such an occurrence, a gradual remediation startup cycle is used. The startup cycle includes multiple stages, where each stage lasts for a period and is tailored to gradually decrease the algae concentration without depleting the oxygen levels in the water below a level needed for other aquatic life to survive. For example, the first stage emits a spectrum of frequencies of ultrasonic waves for a period of 24 hours at a 20% duty cycle with a 5 second cycle time, and the second stage emits a spectrum of frequencies of ultrasonic waves for a period of 24 hours at a 25% duty cycle with a 4 second cycle time. The progression of stages continues until the end of the startup cycle, at which time, a steady state of ultrasonic waves is maintained with a specified duty cycle and cycle time. In one embodiment, the emission power of the ultrasonic waves varies with each stage.

[0016] In one such embodiment, an oxygen sensor monitors the dissolved oxygen levels of the water with the processor controlling the gradual remediation startup stages. For example, if the oxygen level drops below a certain level, the processor controls the transducer emissions to be at an earlier stage. Alternatively, if the oxygen level reaches a certain level, the processor controls the transducer emissions to be at the next stage.

[0017] In another embodiment, a sensor is responsive to the algae concentration in the body of water. The duration of each startup stage is determined by the detected algae concentration. For example, a high algae concentration results in the gradual remediation startup stages having a period of 48 or 72 hours.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The above-mentioned features will become more clearly understood from the following detailed description read together with the drawings in which:

[0019] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the algae control system.

[0020] FIG. 2 is a graph showing the excitation signal over time.

[0021] FIG. 3 is a graph showing the excitation signal with discrete frequencies over an expanded time scale.

[0022] FIG. 4 is a graph showing the excitation signal with discrete pulses for various discrete frequencies over an expanded time scale.

[0023] FIG. 5 is a functional flow diagram showing the process for sweeping the transducer frequency.

[0024] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the algae control system.

[0025] FIG. 7 is a graph showing two signals that are combined to form the excitation signal over time.

[0026] FIG. 8 is a functional flow diagram showing a second embodiment of the process for sweeping the transducer frequency.

[0027] FIG. 9 is a functional flow diagram showing one embodiment of the Set Up Cycle step of the process of FIG. 8.

[0028] FIG. 10 is a graph showing the gradual remediation startup stages over time.

[0029] FIG. 11 is a graph showing one embodiment of a first stage of the gradual remediation startup over an expanded time scale.

[0030] FIG. 12 is a functional flow diagram showing the process for performing the gradual remediation startup.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Apparatus and method for sweeping the frequency emitted by an ultrasonic transducer is disclosed. The ultrasonic control system is generally indicated as 100. The excitation signal is generally indicated as 114. The excitation signal 114-A, 114-B, 114-C is illustrated over varying time intervals 114-A, 114-B, 114-C. When the excitation signal 114is referred to generically, it is referenced without the alphabetic suffix.

[0032] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of the algae control system 100. The system 100 includes a user interface 102, a processor 104, an exciter 106, and a transducer 108. The system 100 also includes a power supply 112.

[0033] The user interface 102 allows for monitoring and control of the system 100. In one embodiment, the user interface 102 is located remote from the other system components. For example, the user interface 102 is a computer or mobile device that communicates over the internet and / or wirelessly with the processor 104. In another embodiment, the user interface 102 is local to the processor 104 and allows configuration of the system 100 during installation, setup, and periodic maintenance.

[0034] The processor 104 is a computing device that executes programs and includes a processing unit, memory / storage unit, and input / output units for communicating with external devices, such as the user interface 102 and the excite 106. For example, the processor 104 is a system-on-a-chip (SOC) in which the processor 104 contains various components that perform the major functions of the processor 104. In another embodiment, the processor 102 is a specialized device, such as a micro- controller or an application- specific integrated circuit (ASIC) that, in conjunction with other components, that implement the functions of the system 100. In one embodiment, the processor 104 includes a digital-to-analog converter (ADC) and / or a zero shift circuit that produces an excitation signal 114.

[0035] The processor 104 outputs are connected to the exciter 106. The processor output includes an excitation signal 114 that provides information to the exciter 106. The excitation signal 114 causes the exciter 106 to control the frequency and amplitude of the ultrasonic waves 110 emitted from the transducer 108.

[0036] In one embodiment, the excitation signal 114 output from the processor 104 is a digital signal that resembles a square wave with an amplitude and a frequency. That is, the excitation signal 114 alternates between a digital on- state 232 and an off-state 234 with a 50% duty cycle in which the on-state period 232 equals the off-state period 234.

[0037] The exciter 106 receives inputs from the processor 104 and provides signals to the transducer 108, which produces ultrasonic waves 110. The power supply 112 provides power to the exciter 106. The exciter 106 uses the power from the power supply 112 to energize the transducer 108 with a frequency and power level in accordance with the output signals from the processor 104.

[0038] The transducer 108 receives signals from the exciter 106. The transducer 108 is an ultrasonic vibration producing device, such as a piezoelectric crystal. The transducer 108 produces ultrasonic waves 110 in response to the signals from the exciter 106. In the illustrated embodiment, a single transducer 108 is shown. In other embodiments, the system 100 includes multiple transducers 108, with associated exciters 106. The transducer 108 emits ultrasonic waves 110 into a body of water 120. The body of water 120 includes one or more types of algae 122 that are to be controlled by the system 100.

[0039] In one embodiment, a sensor 124 is submerged in the body of water 120. The sensor 124 communicates with the processor 104. In one such embodiment, the sensor 124 is responsive to the oxygen levels in the body of water 120. In another embodiment, the sensor 124 is responsive to the concentration of algae in the body of water 120. In yet another embodiment, the sensor 124 is responsive to both parameters, namely oxygen level and algae concentration.

[0040] The power supply 112 provides power to the processor 104 and the exciter 106. In one embodiment, the power supply 112 is local to system 100. For example, the power supply 112 includes a solar panel, a battery, and a charging system mounted on a raft or float under which is suspended a sonic head that includes the processor 104, the exciter 106, the transducer 108.

[0041] FIG. 2 illustrates a graph showing the excitation signal 114 over time 216-A. FIG. 3 illustrates a graph showing the excitation signal 114 with discrete frequencies over an expanded time scale 216-B. FIG. 4 illustrates a graph showing the excitation signal 114 with discrete pulses for various discrete frequencies over an expanded time scale 216-C. The vertical, or y-axis, 218 represents amplitude A of the excitation signal 114. The horizontal, or x-axis, 216 represents time. FIG. 3 illustrates a portion of the pulse 212 shown in FIG. 2 with the expanded time scale 216-B. A portion of the frequency streams 222, 224, 226 of the center graph are reproduced in the upper graph with the expanded time scale 216-C.

[0042] Multiple parameters are used within the algae control system 100. The following parameters define aspects of the system 100 as further illustrated in Figures 2-5 and described below:

[0043] Three related parameters include the On Time 206-on, the Off Time 206-off, and the Duty Cycle of the excitation signal 114. Any two of these parameters defines the third. The excitation signal 114 includes a series of pulses 212, 212' interspersed with non-pulse, or zero signal, gaps 214. One pulse 212 and one gap 214 define one Cycle 204 of the excitation signal 114. The duration of the pulses 212, 212' define the On Time 206-on. The duration of the gaps 214 define the Off Time 206-off. The Duty Cycle is defined by the ratio of the On Time 206-on to the combined duration of the On Time 206-on and the Off Time 206-off.

[0044] Another parameter is the Amplitude of the excitation signal 114. In the illustrated graphs of FIGS. 2-4, the excitation signal 114 alternates between a fixed, positive amplitude and zero. In such an embodiment, the excitation signal 114 does not provide any information on the power of the emitted ultrasonic waves 110 other than a specific power level and no power corresponding to the signal On Time 206-on and the signal Off Time 202-off of the excitation signal 114. In one such embodiment, the processor 104 includes another output that provides amplitude information to the exciter 106.

[0045] In another embodiment, the amplitude of the excitation signal 114 varies according to the desired power of the emitted ultrasonic waves 110. In one such embodiment, the processor 104 includes a digital-to- analog converter (DAC) to produce an excitation signal 114 with a variable amplitude.

[0046] Another set of related parameters include the Lower Frequency Limit, the Upper Frequency Limit, and the Frequency Range. Any two of these parameters defines the third. The frequency range is defined as the range of frequencies to be emitted by the transducer 108 in order to impact the algae and other bio-organisms desired to be controlled. In one embodiment, a single frequency range is defined for the algae control system 100. For example, a Frequency Range of 20 kHz to 220 kHz, which has a Lower Frequency Limit of 20 kHz and an Upper Frequency Limit of 220 kHz. In such an example, the Frequency Range of 20 kHz to 220 kHz has a Frequency Bandwidth of 200 kHz. In otherembodiments, multiple Frequency Ranges are defined for the algae control system 100.

[0047] Another parameter is the Number of Discrete Frequencies 222, 224, 226 within one cycle 204 of the excitation signal 114. In one embodiment, the pulse 212 includes a Number of Discrete Frequencies 222, 224, 226, each having a discrete frequency period 220. In one such embodiment, each of the discrete frequencies 222, 224, 226 sequentially increment. In such an embodiment, the Number of Discrete Frequencies 222, 224, 226 defines the Frequency Bandwidth for one cycle 204 of the excitation signal 114.

[0048] Another parameter is the Frequency Sub-Range, which is a subdivision of the Frequency Range. The Frequency Sub-Range is defined by the lowest and the highest frequency of the Number of Discrete Frequencies 222, 224, 226. During a single pulse 212, 212', the Discrete Frequencies 222, 224, 226 are all within the Frequency Sub-Range.

[0049] Another parameter is the frequency step or difference between each of the adjacent discrete frequencies within one cycle of the excitation signal 114. For example, the Frequency Step is determined from the absolute value of one discrete frequency 222 subtracted from an adjacent discrete frequency 224. Another way of determining the Frequency Step is to divide the Frequency Sub-Range by the Number of Discrete Frequencies 222, 224, 226.

[0050] Another parameter is the Number of Frequency Sub-Ranges within the Frequency Range. The Number of Frequency Sub-Ranges is determined by dividing the Frequency Bandwidth of the Frequency Range by the Frequency Bandwidth of the Frequency Sub-Range

[0051] FIG. 2 illustrates an excitation signal 114-A over a time scale 216-A. The excitation signal 114 is a stream of pulses 212 having a pulse time 204. The illustrated excitation signal 114-A is represented as a square wave signal with a series of pulses 212, 212' are separated by intervening zero signal periods 214. In one embodiment, the output 114 from the processor 104 is a digital signal represented as a square wave that alternates between zero and the processor output voltage. In such an embodiment, the exciter 106 acts upon the output signal 114 to produce a signal suitable for the transducer 108, such as an alternating current signal that swings about a zero voltage axis. In anotherembodiment, the processor 104 includes a zero shift circuit and a shaping circuit that results in the excitation signal 114 being an alternating current signal that swings about a zero voltage axis between a positive and a negative voltage.

[0052] The pulse, or cycle, time 204 is the period that includes the pulse 212 on time 206-on and non-pulse, or zero signal, 214 off time 206-off of the excitation signal 202. The On Time 206-on of the excitation signal 114 is defined as the time difference between the signal Off Time 202-off and the previous signal on time 202-on. The Off Time 206-off is the time gap 214 between successive pulses 212, 212'. The off time 206-off of the excitation signal 114 is defined as the time difference between the signal on time 202-on' and the previous signal off time 202-off. The excitation signal 202 has a duty cycle defined as the ratio of the on time 206-on of the excitation signal 114 divided by the total cycle time 204. In one embodiment, the cycle time 204 is one second and the signal on time 206-on is 0.6 seconds, which results in a duty cycle of 60% for a one second period.

[0053] FIG. 3 illustrates a portion of the pulse 212 of the excitation signal 114-B over a time scale 216-B. The pulse 212 includes a plurality of streams 222, 224, 226. That is, the pulse 212 is not a direct current (de) signal, but the pulse 212 includes a series of streams, or Discrete Frequencies, 222, 224, 226, each having a discrete frequency within a frequency range.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, each Discrete Frequency 222, 224, 226 has substantially the same discrete frequency period 220. That is, the first Discrete Frequency 222 has a first frequency that extends for a first discrete frequency period 220. The second Discrete Frequency 224 has a second frequency that extends for a second discrete frequency period 220 that is of the same duration as the first discrete frequency period 220. The third Discrete Frequency 226 has a third frequency that extends for a third discrete frequency period 220 that is of the same duration as the first discrete frequency period 220. FIGS. 3 & 4 illustrate that the amplitude of each Discrete Frequency 222, 224, 226 is the same. In other embodiments, the amplitude of each Discrete Frequency 222, 224, 226 varies as determined by the processor 104.

[0055] In one embodiment, the Discrete Frequencies 222, 224, 226 are sequential, with each Discrete Frequency 222, 224, 226 being separated from an adjacent Discrete Frequency 222, 224, 226 by a frequency step. In one such embodiment, the frequency step is equal to a specific frequency, for example, 2 Hz or 20 Hz. In another such embodiment, the frequency step is dependent upon the ability of the processor to produce specific frequencies. In one such embodiment, the processor 104 has a pulse width modulation (PWM) counter that defines the allowable Discrete Frequencies 222, 224, 226. Integer increments of the PWM counter determine the minimum Frequency Step for a specific Discrete Frequency 222, 224, 226. For example, one processor 104 with a clock frequency of 120 MHz and a frequency range of 18 kHz to 238 kHz has a frequency step ranging between 3 and 471 Hz.

[0056] In another embodiment, the Discrete Frequencies 222, 224, 226 are randomly selected from the Frequency Sub-Range. In one such embodiment, the processor 104 accesses a table of data to determine the next Discrete Frequency 222, 224, 226.

[0057] FIG. 4 illustrates the Discrete Frequencies 222, 224, 226 included in a portion of the excitation signal 114-C over an expanded time scale 216-C. The first Discrete Frequency 222 has a series of pulses 232 separated by intervening zero signal periods 234 with the pulses 232 occurring at the first Discrete Frequency 222. The second and third Discrete Frequencies 224, 226 have a series of pulses 232 separated by intervening zero signal periods 234 with the pulses 232 occurring at the second and third Discrete Frequency 224, 226, respectively.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, each Discrete Frequency 222, 224, 226 varies by the amount necessary for the time period of each discrete frequency period 220 to encompass complete cycles of the Discrete Frequency 222, 224, 226. That is, the preceding discrete frequency period 220-A, 220-B, 220-C ends at the start of the pulse 232 for the current Discrete Frequency 222, 224, 226.

[0059] FIG. 4 illustrates the Discrete Frequencies 222, 224, 226 as a series of direct current (de) pulses 232 relative to non-pulse, or zero, amplitude level that is coincident with the time axis 216-C. In another embodiment, the zero voltage amplitude level 416-C is midway between the top and bottom of alternating current (ac) pulses 432, 434. That is, the excitation signal 114 has been processed by a zero shift circuit such that the excitation signal 114 includes positive pulses 432 and negative pulses 434 that swing about the zero level axis 416-C. In another such embodiment, the pulses 432, 434 are sinusoidal or some other waveform than the illustrated square wave.

[0060] FIG. 5 illustrates a functional flow diagram showing the process 500 for sweeping the transducer frequency for the algae control system 100. The excitation signal 114 includes a series of sequential pulses 212, 212' separated by a non-pulse, or zero signal, 214 state. Each pulse 212 of the excitation signal 114 includes a first series of Discrete Frequencies 222, 224, 226 within a first Frequency Sub-Range. The next sequential pulse 212' of the excitation signal 114 includes a second series of Discrete Frequencies 222, 224, 226 selected from a second Frequency Sub-Range.

[0061] The first step 502 is to start the process 500. The first step 502 is performed when the process 500 is manually initiated, such as by a command from the user interface 102, or upon power up of the system 100.

[0062] The next step 504 is to generate the frequency signal. In one embodiment, the processor 104 generates a series of pulses 232 for a Discrete Frequency 222. In one such embodiment, the processor 104 outputs an excitation signal 114 that is processed by the exciter 106 to drive the transducer 108. In another embodiment, the processor 104 outputs an excitation signal 114 that is zero shifted and shaped so as to cause the exciter 106 to drive the transducer 108.

[0063] The next step 506 is to start sending the ultrasonic waves 110 from the transducer 108. In one embodiment, step 506 is implemented by the excitation signal 114 being received by the exciter 106, which produces a signal suitable for the transducer 108 to be excited and transmit the ultrasonic waves 110 at the Discrete Frequency 222.

[0064] The next step 508 is to determine if the elapsed time is less than the On Time 206-on for the pulse 212 of the excitation signal 114. The elapsed time is the duration of the time since either the start 502 or the performance of step 514 of selecting the next Frequency Sub-Range. Step 508 is performed by the processor 104.

[0065] If step 508 determines that the elapsed time is not less than the On Time 206-on for the pulse 212, the step 510 to stop sending is performed. Step 510 to stop sending includes the processor 106 causing the excitation signal 114 to be at the Off time 206-off state. Step 510 to stop sending also includes the transducer 108 stopping emitting of ultrasonic waves 110.

[0066] After step 510, the next step 512 is to pause for the Off Time 206-off. Step 512 to pause includes the processor 104 holding the excitation signal 114 at the non-pulse, or zero signal, 214 state for the duration of the Off Time 206-off. The pausing step 512 also includes the transducer 108 not emitting any ultrasonic waves 110.

[0067] After the pause step 512, the step 514 to select the next frequency sub-range is performed by the processor 104. In one embodiment, the selection step 514 includes the processor 104 accessing a table of data to determine the next Frequency Sub-Range. In one such embodiment, the table of data contains information related to the desired Frequency Sub-Ranges from which the Discrete Frequencies 222, 224, 226 are selected. In various embodiments, the Frequency Sub-Ranges are either sequentially ordered or randomly ordered sub-divisions of the Frequency Range.

[0068] After the step 514 to select the next Frequency Sub-Range is performed, step 504 to generate the frequency signal is performed. In this way, the system 100 causes the transducer 108 to emit ultrasonic waves 110 in different Frequency Sub-Ranges with each pulse 212.

[0069] If step 508 determines that the elapsed time is less than the On Time 206-on for the pulse 212, the step 516 to determine if the next Discrete Frequency is to be selected. In one embodiment, Step 506 includes comparing a preselected discrete frequency period 220 to the elapsed time that the current Discrete Frequency has been transmitted by the transducer 108. In such an embodiment, the discrete frequency period 220 is a fixed time that includes multiple discrete cycles of the Discrete Frequency.

[0070] If step 516 determines that the next Discrete Frequency is to be selected, step 518 to select the next Discrete Frequency is performed. In one embodiment, step 518 is performed by incrementing the current Discrete Frequency 222, 224, 226 by a Frequency Step.

[0071] In one embodiment, the Discrete Frequencies 222, 224, 226 are sequential, with each Discrete Frequency 222, 224, 226 being separated from an adjacent Discrete Frequency 222, 224, 226 by a Frequency Step. In one such embodiment, selection step 518 includes the processor 518 executing software to increment the Discrete Frequency 222, 224, 226 by minimum frequency value allowed by the capability of the processor 518. For example, than a processor 104 with a lower clock frequency results in the processor 104 producing a frequency step larger than a processor 104 with a higher clock frequency.

[0072] In another embodiment, selection step 518 includes the processor 104 accessing a table of data to determine the next Discrete Frequency 222, 224, 226. In one such embodiment, the table of data contains information related to the desired Discrete Frequencies 222, 224, 226 to be generated and sent in steps 504 and 506. In various embodiments, the Discrete Frequencies 222, 224, 226 are either sequentially ordered or randomly ordered.

[0073] After step 518 to select the next Discrete Frequency is performed, step 504 to generate the frequency signal is performed. In this way, the system 100 causes the transducer 108 to emit ultrasonic waves 110 of sequential Discrete Frequencies with each pulse 212.

[0074] If step 516 determines that the next Discrete Frequency is not to be selected, step 520 to continue sending the Discrete Frequency is performed. After step 520 to continue sending, step 508 to determine if the elapsed time is less than the On Time 206-on for the pulse 212 of the excitation signal 114 is performed. In this way, the process 500 continues sending the Discrete Frequency until either step 508 determines it is time to stop sending or step 516 determines that the next Discrete Frequency is to be selected.

[0075] FIG. 6 illustrates a block diagram of a second embodiment of the algae control system 100'. In the illustrated embodiment, the processor 104' includes various functional modules 604, 606, 608, 610 connected to an exciter 106' and various sensors 622, 624, 626. FIG. 7 illustrates a graph showing two signals, namely, the gated output signal 212 and the frequency signal 702, that are combined to form the excitation signal 714 over time 216.

[0076] In one embodiment, the processor 104' includes a gated output PWM (pulse width modulation) module 604, a frequency PWM module 606, and a DAC power level module 608. The exciter 106' includes an enable input module 614, a frequency input module 616, and a power controller module 618.

[0077] The gated output PWM module 604 in the processor 104' produces a series of signals that result in pulses or gated signals 212, 212' defining the On Time 206-on separated by a gap 214 equal to the Off Time 206-off. Each pulse or gated signal 212 and gap 214 defines the total cycle time 204. The enable input module 614 receives the gated signal 212 from the gated output PWM module 604. The enable input module 614 allows the exciter 106' to excite the transducer 108 during the On Time 206-on. In one embodiment, the duty cycle 204 is 100%, that is, the Off Time 206-off is zero.

[0078] The frequency PWM module 606 in the processor 104' produces a signal that results in a series of discrete frequencies 702-1, 702-2, 702-3, 702-4 during the On Time gated signal 212, 212'. The frequency input module 616 in the exciter 106' receives the series of discrete frequencies 702-1, 702-2, 702-3, 702-4 from the frequency PWM module 606. The frequency input module 616 passes the frequencies 702-1, 702-2, 702-3, 702-4 from the exciter 106' to the transducer 108 during the On Time 206-on.

[0079] The processor 104' includes a first timer block and a second timer block. The timer blocks, in one embodiment, are implemented as hardware timers controlled by the central processing unit (CPU) or microcontroller of the processor 104'. In another embodiment, the timer blocks are implemented via software programming executed by the processor 104'. The first timer block communicates with the gated output PWM module 604 in the processor 104' and provides the timing for the gated output, that is the first timer controls the On Time 206-on and the Off Time 206-off. The second timer block communicates with the frequency PWM module 606 in the processor 104' and provides the timing for the frequency PWM module 606. In another embodiment, a single timer block is used to communicate with the frequency PWM module 606 in the processor 104' and provides the timing for the frequency PWM module 606 for the duration of the On Time 206-on and then to provide a timing signal for the Off Tim 206-off. In such an embodiment, the functions of the gated output PWM module 604 and the frequency PWM module 606 are combined through the operation of the single timer block.

[0080] The DAC power level module 608 in the processor 104', in the embodiment where such a feature is enabled, provides a signal that is received by the power controller module 618 in the exciter 106' to control the power applied by the transducer 108.

[0081] In one embodiment, the algae control system 100' includes a feedback system that includes one or more sensors 124 that include an underwater camera or optical sensor 622, a flourometer 624, a sonar instrument 626, and / or a dissolved oxygen sensor 628 that are in communication with a feedback I / ) (input / output) module 610 in the processor 104'. During operation of the system 100', the various sensors 622, 624, 626 monitor the effect of the various frequencies 702 emitted by the transducer 108 on the local bio-organisms. In this way, the processor 104' determines which frequencies 702 or frequency bandwidths have the most significant impact on the local bio-organisms and the programming is altered to emphasize emitting such frequencies 702 or frequency bandwidths.

[0082] FIG. 8 illustrates a functional flow diagram showing a second embodiment of the process 500' for sweeping the transducer frequency. FIG. 9 is a functional flow diagram showing one embodiment of the initializing step of the process of FIG. 8. FIG. 9 is a functional flow diagram showing one embodiment of the Set Up Cycle step 804 of the process of FIG. 8.

[0083] The first step 802 is to start the process 500'. The first step 802 is performed when the process 500' is manually initiated or upon power up of the system 100'. The first step 802 includes initializing the Bandwidth Indexer to point to the first table entry. The Bandwidth Indexer is a programmed function in the processor 104'. The Bandwidth Indexer maintains the Bandwidth Table. The Bandwidth Table contains data relating to the following fields: Bandwidth Index, Frequency, Gated Output or Duty Cycle, Power Level, and Cavitation.

[0084] In one embodiment, the Bandwidth Index is a parameter, such as a number, that sequentially identifies information related to each pulse or gated output 212. Associated with each Bandwidth Index are the one or more Frequencies to be emitted during the pulse or gated output 212. For example, one Bandwidth Index includes the Frequencies of 20,000 Hz, 20,005 Hz, 20,010 Hz, 20,015 Hz, and 20,020 Hz. The next Bandwidth Index includes the Frequencies of 33,000 Hz, 33,301 Hz, 33,302 Hz, and 33,303 Hz. Also associated with each Bandwidth Index is the Gated Output or Duty Cycle 204. For example, the Duty Cycle is 75% with a period of 2 seconds divided as 1.5 seconds of On Time 206-on and 0.5 seconds of Off Time 206-off. In one embodiment, a Power Level field is also associated with each Bandwidth Index. For example, a Power Level for a particular Bandwidth Index is specified as 10% of full power. In one embodiment, a Cavitation field is also associated with each Bandwidth Index. In one example, Cavitation is specified as a Boolean value of true or false. The Cavitation field is used to control the application of additional power at spaced intervals so as to better induce cavitation around the transducer 108.

[0085] After the first step 802 of starting, the next step 804 is the Set Up Cycle, which includes the first sub-step 902 of obtain data from the Bandwidth Table associated with the selected Bandwidth Index and the second sub -step 904 of computing variables. The first sub-step 902 of obtaining data from the Bandwidth Table includes reading data on the frequency, the Gated Output or Duty Cycle, the Power Level, and Cavitation. The second sub-step 904 of computingvariables includes computing the duration of each pulse or Gated Output 212 and the duration of each frequency. The duration of each frequency is determined by dividing the duration 206-on of the Gated Output 212 by the number of frequencies (for example, four 702-1, 702-2, 72-3, 702-4 as shown in FIG. 7) associated with the selected Bandwidth Index (for example, the Bandwidth Index represented by the cycle 204 shown in FIG. 7).

[0086] After the step 804 of setting up the cycle, the step 806 of initiating the On Time is performed. During the initiating step 804, the first timer block begins timing the On Time 206-on and the second timer block begins timing the first frequency 702- 1.

[0087] The steps 808, 810 of adjusting the power level and sending the frequency are performed. For the embodiment where the exciter 106' is capable of adjusting the power level of the transducer 108, the step 808 of adjusting the power level includes the power level module 608 in the processor 104' communicating the associated Bandwidth Table power level to the power controller 618 in the exciter 106'. The exciter 106' then actuates the transducer 108 at the communicated power level. The step 810 of sending the frequency includes the frequency PWM module 606 communicating the associated Bandwidth Table frequency to the Frequency Input Module 616 in the exciter 106'. The exciter 106' then actuates the transducer 108 at the communicated frequency 702.

[0088] After steps 808, 810 of adjusting the power level and sending the frequency are performed, the step 812 of determining if the frequency is done is performed. Step 812 includes checking the second timer block to determine if the duration of the frequency 702 has elapsed. If step 812 determines that the frequency duration has not elapsed, then the step 812 loops back and is performed again.

[0089] If step 812 determines that the frequency duration 220 has elapsed, then the step 814 of determining if there are more frequencies is performed. Step 814 includes checking the Bandwidth Table to determine if there are remaining frequencies 702 associated with the Bandwidth Index. If step 814 determines that there are more frequencies to send, then step 816 to increment to the next frequency listed in the Bandwidth Table for that Bandwidth Index is performed and then the process 500' loops back to perform steps 808, 810. In this way, when aspecific Bandwidth Index has multiple associated frequencies, the frequencies are sequentially processed.

[0090] If step 814 determines that there are no more frequencies to send, then step 818 to initiate Off Time is performed. After step 818 is performed, step 820 of determining if the Off Time 206-off is done is performed. Step 820 includes checking the first timer block to determine if the duration of the Off Time 206-off has elapsed. If step 820 determines that the Off Time 206-off duration has not elapsed, then the step 820 loops back and is performed again.

[0091] If step 820 determines that the Off Time 206-off duration has elapsed, then step 822 to increment to the next Bandwidth Index in the Bandwidth Table is performed and then step 824 for determining if the end of the Bandwidth Index has been reached, that is, the last Bandwidth Index listed in the Bandwidth Table has been reached, is performed. If step 824 determines that the end of the Bandwidth Index has been reached, the process 500' loops to the start step 802 to initialize the Bandwidth Indexer to point to the first table entry. If step 824 determines that the end of the Bandwidth Index has not been reached, the process 500' loops to step 804 to perform the step 804 to set up the cycle using the Bandwidth Index incremented in Step 822.

[0092] FIG. 10 illustrates a graph showing the gradual remediation startup stages 1002 over time 216. Gradual remediation startup 1010 is an operating mode that allows for gradually reducing the concentration of algae 122 in a body of water 120 in order to avoid depletion of oxygen below a level that would be harmful to other aquatic life.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, the gradual remediation startup 1010 occurs with five remediation stages 1002-1, 1002-2, 1002-3, 1002-4, 1002-5. Each stage 1002-1, 1002-2, 1002-3, 1002-4, 1002-5has a duration 1004-1, 1004-2, 1004-3, 1004-4, 1004-5. Each stage 1002 has the parameters of the excitation signal 114 adjusted so as to result in a desired kill rate of the algae 122 in the water 120. The parameters of the excitation signal 114 include the stage duration time 1004, the On Time 206-on-l, the Off Time 206-off- 1, the amplitude or power of the emitted ultrasonic waves 110, and the frequencies emitted.

[0094] In one embodiment, the stage duration times 1004 are preset and the gradual remediation startup 1010 is initiated with the final stage 1002-5 having a duration time 1004-5 that has no pre-defined end point. That is, the final stage 1002-5 is the steady state operating condition for the algae control system 100.

[0095] In another embodiment, algae concentration is measured and the stage duration times 1004 are determined based on the measured concentration. For example, a very high algae concentration determines a long stage duration time 1004 of 72 hours as opposed to duration times 1004 of 48 or even 24 hours for lesser algae concentrations. In one such embodiment, the algae control system 100 includes a sensor 124 that is responsive to the concentration of algae 122 in the water 120. The processor 104 adjusts the various stage durations 1004 based on the algae concentration levels from the sensor 124 by increasing the durations 1004 for higher concentrations.

[0096] In another embodiment, the oxygen levels of the water 120 are measured to ensure that the oxygen level does not fall below a level sufficient to ensure survival of desirable aquatic life, such as farmed fish. In one such embodiment, the algae control system 100 includes a sensor 124 that is responsive to the dissolved oxygen level in the water 120. The processor 104 controls the various stage durations 1004 and order based on the oxygen levels from the sensor 124. For example, if the oxygen level falls to a certain level, one or more actions are initiated by the processor 104. Those actions include sending an alert to a remote operator, pausing the current stage 1002 to allow the oxygen level to restore itself, stopping the current stage 1002 and starting a previous stage 1002, or engaging external equipment, such as an aerator.

[0097] FIG. 11 illustrates a graph showing one embodiment of a first stage 1002-1' of the gradual remediation startup 1010 over an expanded time scale 216- A. The second through fifth stages 1002-2, 1002-3, 1002-4, 1002-5 are similar to the first stage 1002-1', differing primarily in the duration of the Off Time 206-off-l, which, in one embodiment, decreases for each subsequent stage 1002-2, 1002-3, 1002-4, 1002-5.

[0098] The illustrated first stage 1002-1' includes a series of pulses 212-1, 212-1' separated by a gap 214-1 where the On Time 206-on-l and the Off Time 206-off-l define the cycle time 204-1, as described above with respect to FIGS. 2- 4. The series of pulses 212-1 repeat every cycle time 204-1 for the duration 1004-1 of the stage 1002-1.

[0099] In one embodiment, the cycle time 206-1 for the first stage 1002-1 is five seconds with the On Time 206-on-l being one second or less. The second stage 1002-2 has a cycle time 206-1 of four seconds with the On Time 206-on-l being one second or less. The third stage 1002-3 has a cycle time 206- 1 of three seconds with the On Time 206-on-l being one second or less. The fourth stage 1002-4 has a cycle time 206-1 of two seconds with the On Time 206-on-l being one second or less. The fifth stage 1002-2 is the steady state stage and has a cycle time 206- 1 of one second with the On Time 206-on-l being one second or less.

[0100] FIG. 12 illustrates a functional flow diagram showing one embodiment of the process 1200 for performing the gradual remediation startup 1010. The remediation process 1200 is a method for bringing a high concentration of algae 122 to a lower concentration level for long-term management of the algae 122 in the body of water 120. A portion of the high concentration of algae 122 is incapacitated in each stage 1002, thereby gradually killing the algae 122 over a period of time while preventing drastic changes in dissolved oxygen content that could be harmful to other aquatic life.

[0101] The first step 1202 is to start the gradual remediation startup process 1200. The first step 1202 is performed when the algae control system 100 is first started up and the environmental conditions warrant a gradual remediation of the algae concentration in a body of water 120. Such remediation is warranted when the algae concentration is so high that steady state operation of the algae control system 100 will result in a massive rate of algae death, resulting in depletion of dissolved oxygen in the water 120.

[0102] The next step 1204 is to determine the duration time 1004 for the stages 1002. In one embodiment, the typical duration time 1004 is 24 hours. The 24 hour period covers both the daytime and nighttime hours to accommodate the behavior of algae over a full day cycle. As the algae concentration in a body of water 120 increases, it is advantageous to increase the duration time 1004 so as to spread out the rate of increase of dead algae in the water 120. Increments of 24 hours for the duration 1004 has the advantage of accommodating the behavior of algae over a full day cycle. In one embodiment, step 1204 for determining stage duration includes substeps of using a sensor 124, such as a camera or optical sensor 622 and / or a flourometer 624, to measure algae concentration, followed by another substep to compare the measured algae concentration level to a table containing data on algae concentration versus duration time. In another embodiment, step 1204 for determining stage duration includes a visual examination of the body of water 120 and an operator selecting an appropriate duration 1004 based on the quantity of algae 122 observed during the visual examination.

[0103] The next step 1206 after step 1204 is to run the first remediation stage 1002-1. The first remediation stage 1002-1 has a low intensity, compared to subsequent stages 1002-2, 1002-3, 1002-4, 1002-5 such that a portion of the algae 122 in the water 120 is incapacitated, leading to the eventual death of the algae 122. The lower intensity is achieved by an extended off- time 206-off-l, such as illustrated in FIG. 11, or, in other embodiments, by varying the power or discrete frequency period 220 or other characteristic of the emitted ultrasonic waves 110.

[0104] After completion of the step 1206 for running the first remediation stage 1002-1, step 1208 for determining the water quality is performed. In one embodiment, the sensor 124 is an oxygen sensor. If the oxygen sensor 124 determines that the dissolved oxygen level is within acceptable limits, the water quality is determined to be good and the step 1210 of running the second remediation stage 1002-2 is performed. If step 1208 determines that the water quality is bad, for example, at a level that may prove harmful to other aquatic life, then step 1206 for running the first remediation stage 1002-1 is repeated. In another embodiment, if step 1208 determines that the water quality is bad, an alert is generated and sent to the user interface 102, which is either local or remote to the processor 104.

[0105] After completion of the step 1210 for running the second remediation stage 1002-2, step 1212 for determining the water quality is performed. In one embodiment, as in step 1208, if the oxygen sensor 124 determines that the dissolved oxygen level is within acceptable limits, the water quality is determined to be good and the step 1214 of running the third remediation stage 1002-3 is performed. If step 1212 determines that the water quality is bad, for example, at a level that may prove harmful to other aquatic life, then in one embodiment step 1210 for running the second remediation stage 1002-2 is repeated, and in another embodiment, step 1206 for running the first remediation stage 1002-1 is repeated. In another embodiment, if step 1212 determines that the water quality is bad, an alert is generated and sent to the user interface 102, which is either local or remote to the processor 104.

[0106] After completion of the step 1214 for running the third remediation stage 1002-3, step 1216 for determining the water quality is performed. In one embodiment, as in step 1208, if the oxygen sensor 124 determines that the dissolved oxygen level is within acceptable limits, the water quality is determined to be good and the step 1218 of running the fourth remediation stage 1002-4 is performed. If step 1216 determines that the water quality is bad, for example, at a level that may prove harmful to other aquatic life, then in one embodiment step 1214 for running the third remediation stage 1002-3 is repeated, and in another embodiment, step 1210 for running the second remediation stage 1002-2 is repeated, and in yet another embodiment, step 1206 for running the first remediation stage 1002-1 is repeated. In another embodiment, if step 1216 determines that the water quality is bad, an alert is generated and sent to the user interface 102, which is either local or remote to the processor 104.

[0107] After completion of the step 1218 for running the fourth remediation stage 1002-4, step 1220 for determining the water quality is performed. In one embodiment, as in step 1208, if the oxygen sensor 124 determines that the dissolved oxygen level is within acceptable limits, the water quality is determined to be good and the step 1222 of running the fifth remediation stage 1002-5 is performed. If step 1220 determines that the water quality is bad, for example, at a level that may prove harmful to other aquatic life, then in one embodiment step 1218 for running the fourth remediation stage 1002-4 is repeated, then in another embodiment step 1214 for running the third remediation stage 1002-3 is repeated, and in yet another embodiment, step 1210 for running the second remediation stage 1002-2 is repeated, and in still another embodiment, step 1206 for running the first remediation stage 1002-1 is repeated. In another embodiment, if step 1220 determines that the water quality is bad, an alert is generated and sent to the user interface 102, which is either local or remote to the processor 104.

[0108] The step 1222 of running the fifth remediation stage 1002-5 is performed until the process 1200 is stopped. Step 1222 for running the fifth remediation stage 1002-5 is a steady state operating mode and is intended to run continuously until environmental conditions warrant other measures or an operator desires to stop the process.

[0109] In other embodiments, the number of remediation stages 1002 varies. For example, for lower starting concentrations of algae 122, the gradual remediation startup process 1200 performs only steps 1204, 1208, and 1214 for the first, third, and fifth stages 1002-1, 1002-3, 1002-5.

[0110] In another embodiment, the remediation process 1200 does not include the steps 1208, 1212, 1216, 1220 for determining water quality. In such an embodiment, the process 1200 performs the steps 1206, 1210, 1214, 1218, 1222 for running the stages 1002-1, 1002-2, 1002-3, 1002-4, 1002-5 in sequence, with each step starting when the previous step is completed.

[0111] In one embodiment, the remediation process 1200 does not include the steps 1212, 1216, 1220 for determining water quality. In such an embodiment, step 1208 is performed simultaneously with steps 1206, 1210, 1214, 1218 for running the stages 1002-1, 1002-2, 1002-3, 1002-4. Process 1200 performs the steps 1206, 1210, 1214, 1218, 1222 for running the stages 1002-1, 1002-2, 1002-3, 1002-4, 1002-5 in sequence, with each step starting when the previous step is completed. In one embodiment, step 1208 for determining water quality is performed periodically while at least the first four stages are running during steps 1206, 1210, 1214, 1218. In another embodiment, step 1208 for determining water quality is performed continuously while at least the first four stages are running during steps 1206, 1210, 1214, 1218. In both embodiments, if step 1208 determines that the water quality is good, steps 1206, 1210, 1214, 1218, 1222 for running the stages 1002-1, 1002-2, 1002-3, 1002-4, 1002-5 continue to run. If step 1208 determines that the water quality is bad or not within limits, step 1208 initiates one or more actions that include sending an alert, pausing the currently running step 1206, 1210, 1214, 1218, 1222 for running the stage 1002, and / or stopping the currently step 1206, 1210, 1214, 1218, 1222 and running a previous one of the steps 1206, 1210, 1214, 1218, 1222 for running the stages 1002-1, 1002-2, 1002-3, 1002-4, 1002-5.

[0112] The ultrasonic control system 100, 100' includes various functions. The function of sweeping the frequency 222, 224, 226 over a duty cycle 204 is implemented, in one embodiment, by the processor 104 performing the steps illustrated in FIG. 5. In another embodiment, the function of sweeping the frequency 702 over a duty cycle 204 is implemented by the processor 104' and exciter 106' performing the steps illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9.

[0113] From the foregoing description, it will be recognized by those skilled in the art that an ultrasonic control system 100, 100' has been provided. An ultrasonic transducer 108 emits sweeping frequencies 222, 224, 226, 702 as determined by a processor 104, 104'. The ultrasonic transducer 108 emit a series of sweeping frequencies 222, 224, 226, 702 over a defined bandwidth where the bandwidths vary periodically in a randomized manner to subject bio-organisms to critical structural resonance that matches the natural critical structural frequency of the organisms, their internal structure, and mobility mechanisms, such as their flagella and vacuoles.

[0114] While the present invention has been illustrated by description of several embodiments and while the illustrative embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of the applicant to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. The invention in its broader aspects is therefore not limited to the specific details, representative apparatus and methods, and illustrative examples shown and described.Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of applicant's general inventive concept.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An apparatus for controlling bio-organisms, said apparatus comprising: a processor having a gated output and a frequency output; a transducer operatively connected to said processor, said processor causing said transducer to emit ultrasonic waves at a frequency corresponding to said frequency output when said gated output enables said transducer to emit said ultrasonic waves.

2. The apparatus of Claim 1 wherein said gated output defines an On Time and an Off Time, and said On Time enabling said transducer to emit ultrasonic waves at said frequency.

3. The apparatus of Claim 1 further including an exciter operatively connected to said processor, and said exciterdriving said transducer.

4. The apparatus of Claim 3 wherein said processor includes a power level output signal received by said exciter, and said exciter causing said transducer to emit ultrasonic waves at a power level corresponding to said power level output signal.

5. The apparatus of Claim 1 wherein said processor maintains a Bandwidth Indexer that includes a Bandwidth Table storing data, said Bandwidth Table stores a plurality of Bandwidth Indexes, each Bandwidth Index having at least one associated Frequency and data corresponding to a duty cycle, said gated output and said frequency output corresponding to data associated with a selected Bandwidth Index.

6. The apparatus of Claim 5 wherein said Bandwidth Table stores a power level associated with each Bandwidth Index; said processor communicating with said exciter whereby said exciter causes said transducer to operate at said power level associated with said selected Bandwidth Index.

7. The apparatus of Claim 1 wherein said processor includes a first timer, said first timer controlling said frequency output for a time period equal to an On Time for said gated output, and said first timer controlling said gated output for an Off Time.

8. The apparatus of Claim 1 wherein said processor includes a first timer and a second timer, said first timer controlling said gated output, and said second timer controlling said frequency output.

9. The apparatus of Claim 1 wherein said processor is programmed to execute a program performing the following steps: a) running a first stage whereby said transducer is caused to emit said ultrasonic waves for a plurality of first cycles, wherein said transducer emits said ultrasonic waves for a selected first stage duration, each one of said plurality of first cycles having a first stage on-time and a first stage off- time; b) running a second stage whereby said transducer is caused to emit said ultrasonic waves for a plurality of second cycles, wherein said transducer emits said ultrasonic waves for a selected second stage duration, each one of said plurality of second cycles having a second stage on-time and a second stage off- time, said second stage off-time being less than said first stage off-time; and c) running a final stage whereby said transducer is caused to emit said ultrasonic waves for a plurality of final cycles, said transducer emits said ultrasonic waves for a selected final stage duration, each one of said plurality of final cycles having a final stage on-time and a final stage off- time, and said final stage off- time being less than said second stage off- time.

10. The apparatus of Claim 9 further including a processor step for determining a stage duration before said processor step a) for running said first stage is performed, wherein said stage duration is equal to said first and second stage durations of said steps a) and b).

11. The apparatus of Claim 10 wherein said step for determining said stage duration includes the processor receiving an input from a sensor that is responsive to conditions indicative of a high algae concentration.

12. The apparatus of Claim 9 further including a processor step al) for determining water quality, if said step al) determines that water quality is within limits, said step al) performs at least one of the following actions that include sending an alert, pausing step a) of running said first stage, and stopping step a) of running said first stage.

13. The apparatus of Claim 9 further including a processor step bl) for determining water quality, if said step bl) determines that water quality is within limits, said step bl) performs at least one of the following actions that include sending an alert, pausing step b) of running said first stage, and stopping step b) of running said first stage.

14. The apparatus of Claim 9 further including a processor step al) for determining water quality, said step 1) runs concurrently with said steps a) of running said first stage and b) of running said second stage, if said step al) determines that water quality is within limits, said step al) performs at least one of the following actions that include sending an alert, pausing step a) of running said first stage, pausing step b) of running said first stage, stopping step a) of running said first stage and stopping step b) of running said first stage.

15. An apparatus for controlling bio-organisms, said apparatus comprising: a processor having a frequency output, said frequency output including at least one frequency signal during an On Time and a zero signal during an Off Time; an exciter operatively connected to said processor; a transducer operatively connected to said exciter, said exciter causing said transducer to emit ultrasonic waves at a frequency corresponding to said frequency output during said On Time.

16. The apparatus of Claim 15 wherein said frequency output includes a plurality of frequency signals ordered serially during said On Time.

17. The apparatus of Claim 15 wherein said frequency output includes a plurality of frequency signals ordered serially during said On Time, and said plurality of frequency signals defined by an entry in a Bandwidth Table.

18. An apparatus for controlling bio-organisms having a gradual remediation startup, said apparatus comprising: a transducer configured to emit ultrasonic waves at a frequency; a processor operatively connected to said transducer, said processor executing a program performing the following steps: a) running a first stage whereby said transducer is caused to emit said ultrasonic waves for a plurality of first cycles, said transducer emits said ultrasonic waves for a selected first stage duration, each one of said plurality of first cycles having a first stage on-time and a first stage off-time; b) running a second stage whereby said transducer is caused to emit said ultrasonic waves for a plurality of second cycles, said transducer emits said ultrasonic waves for a selected second stage duration, each one of said plurality of second cycles having a second stage on-time and a second stage off- time, said second stage off-time being less than said first stage off-time; andc) running a final stage whereby said transducer is caused to emit said ultrasonic waves for a plurality of final cycles, said transducer emits said ultrasonic waves for a selected final stage duration, each one of said plurality of final cycles having a final stage on-time and a final stage off- time, and said final stage off- time being less than said second stage off- time.

19. The apparatus of Claim 18 further including a processor step for determining a stage duration before said processor step a) for running said first stage is performed, wherein said stage duration is equal to said first and second stage durations of said steps a) and b).

20. The apparatus of Claim 19 wherein said step for determining said stage duration includes the processor receiving an input from a sensor that is responsive to conditions indicative of a high algae concentration.

21. The apparatus of Claim 18 further including a processor step al) for determining water quality, if said step al) determines that water quality is within limits, said step al) performs at least one of the following actions that include sending an alert, pausing step a) of running said first stage, and stopping step a) of running said first stage.

22. The apparatus of Claim 18 further including a processor step bl) for determining water quality, if said step bl) determines that water quality is within limits, said step bl) performs at least one of the following actions that include sending an alert, pausing step b) of running said first stage, and stopping step b) of running said first stage.

23. The apparatus of Claim 18 further including a processor step al) for determining water quality, said step 1) runs concurrently with said steps a) of running said first stage and b) of running said second stage, if said step al) determines that water quality is within limits, said step al) performs at least one of the following actions that include sending an alert, pausing step a) of running said first stage, pausing step b) of running said first stage, stopping step a) of running said first stage and stopping step b) of running said first stage.

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