Apparatus system and method for cultivating aquatic organisms

Abstract

The present invention pertains to an apparatus (1) designed for the cultivation of benthic organisms, including species like lobster and crayfish, the apparatus comprising a shelf structure (100, 101) comprising a vertical arrangement of at least one shelf (400) on which one or more containers (2) are placed to serve as habitats for these organisms, a supply conduit (404) for each container, the shelf comprising a downwardly inclined surface (401). A monitoring system comprises a structure including a first track (801a), a first rail (802a), a monitoring unit (803) wherein the monitoring unit comprises at least one camera (804), the monitoring unit being in data communication with an analysis unit comprising a computer readable medium for analyzing images from the at least one camera to assess one or more conditions.

Description

[0001]Apparatus System and Method for Cultivating Aquatic Organisms Field of the invention The invention relates to a modular land-based apparatus for cultivating aquatic organisms such as benthic or marine algae. Background The present invention pertains to the field of benthic organism cultivation, with a specific focus on the rearing of organisms. Benthic organisms play a crucial role in aquaculture, providing a valuable resource for various industries. Traditional facility-based cultivation methods, however, have encountered challenges related to effectiveness and capacity, highlighting the need for innovative and smarter solutions to meet the growing demand for benthic organism production. The state of the art in benthic organism cultivation is exemplified by US Patent US9027510B2, which discloses an apparatus for farming benthic organisms. This prior art involves a plurality of containers configured as drawers, vertically stacked in a rack. These containers are designed to receive and hold water, suitable for the cultivation of benthic organisms. The water can be supplied through a conduit or received by immersing the apparatus in a body of water conducive to benthic organism cultivation, and the invention is configured to be completely immersed in water. While the cited prior art presents a viable approach to benthic organism cultivation, it may not fully address the need for more effective and efficient cultivation solutions, particularly concerning inspection, individual organism care, and maximizing space utilization. Facility-based cultivation faces challenges in achieving optimal capacity and operational efficiency, prompting the exploration of alternative approaches. The prior art also does not provide a smart solution for accommodating (water / food supply and drainage of waste) each rearing unit individually. The existing challenges in benthic organism cultivation underscore the demand for smarter solutions that enhance effectiveness, capacity, and operational control. The present invention addresses these issues by introducing an advanced rack system that integrates a novel shelf structure, centralized drainage, and a customizable setup allowing for the inspection and cultivation of individual organisms. The proposed invention focuses on a more tailored approach, providing a platform where each organism and each organism habitat can be individually attended to and monitored. The innovative shelf structure ensures efficient use of space and water resources, while centralized drainage enhances water management. Many rearing setups for aquatic species feature large trays, raceways, basins, containers, etc. housing benthic organisms. Such rearing setups may be designed with open structures where the organisms may be visually exposed to the environment outside of their housing. During activities such as feeding or monitoring, the benthic organisms may be exposed to disturbance because of these designs. The disturbance may induce stress to the housed organism, reducing animal welfare and growth. An important aspect of the present invention is to offer the ability to tend to the housed organisms without disturbance, reducing the stress levels. By reducing stress levels, the welfare is increased that may positively effect growth and food quality. Many rearing setups for benthic species are designed based on the behavioural needs of a single specie or a small group of species. The aquatic organisms have different behavioural traits, where some species are territorial with cannibalistic behaviour, other species have gregarious behaviour. The invention solves these behavioural variety by providing modular structures, offering the possibility of using the apparatus for both territorial and gregarious species. Furthermore, the invention aims to provide discrete means for tending to the animals or organisms, recognizing that they are sensitive to visual and physical stimuli, which can induce stress. In summary, the present invention seeks to overcome the limitations of current facility-based cultivation methods by introducing a sophisticated rack system that offers improved control, capacity, and efficiency in benthic organism cultivation. This inventive approach aims to contribute significantly to the aquaculture industry's ability to meet the growing demand for high-quality benthic organisms. By utilizing the combination of shelving structure, several containers, and enclosed chambers, the invention provides optimal conditions for cultivating, rearing, and live storage of benthic aquatic animals, ensuring stress-reduced growth. Summary of the invention The invention relates to an apparatus for the cultivation of aquatic organisms as defined in the patent claims. Typically, the apparatus comprises a shelf structure comprising a vertical arrangement of a plurality of shelves. The invention may also have only one supporting shelf with an inclined surface for water runoff, which will be explained further, and a roof structure located above, the roof structure being substantially equivalent to a regular shelf providing water / food supply to a container placed on said supporting shelf. Said plurality of shelves typically comprises a shelf platform and wherein at least one of the shelves comprises a shelf ceiling, a plurality of containers for housing water and benthic organisms, wherein the containers are horizontally arranged and positioned adjacent to each other on at least one of the shelves, wherein at least one of the containers comprises a container floor, a rear container wall, a front container wall and a top opening, wherein the apparatus is configured to allow at least one of the containers to be removed from and inserted into the apparatus during operation, wherein when at least one of the containers is in the inserted position, the container is completely covered by an above shelf, the above shelf providing a roof cover for the container, wherein the container floor comprises drainage openings in proximity to the rear container wall, wherein at least one of the shelves comprises a downwardly inclined surface for facilitating water runoff from a container above, wherein at least one of the containers establishes fluid communication with an inclined surface of a shelf below via the drainage openings, wherein a shelf located above a container comprises a supply conduit for providing water to at least one container below. The invention further relates to said apparatus, wherein the drainage openings are located above, preferably directly above, an inclined ledge a below shelf when the container is in the inserted position. The invention further relates to said apparatus, wherein a container comprises an overflow drain positioned near the upper edge of the rear container wall, wherein the containers establish fluid communication with at least one runoff ledge of the shelf below via the overflow drain. The invention further relates to said apparatus, wherein the overflow drain comprises a filtering barrier such as a grating, a grid or a mesh. The invention further relates to said apparatus, wherein at least one shelf comprises a dry compartment between a shelf platform and a shelf ceiling for housing utilities such as electronic circuits. The invention further relates to said apparatus, wherein a shelf located above a container comprises a controllable light source connected to the shelf ceiling, enabling illumination to a container below. The invention further relates to said apparatus, where the supply conduit is positioned beneath the inclined surface, and where the supply conduit is in fluid connection with a control valve that regulates water flow into one or more containers. The invention further relates to said apparatus, wherein the inclined surface protrudes a distance rearward of the above and / or the below container when the container is in the inserted position. The invention further relates to said apparatus, comprising: a first shelf structure according to any preceding claim, and a second shelf structure according to any preceding claim; wherein the first shelf structure and the second shelf structure are connected; wherein the second shelf structure is positioned opposite to first shelf structure with the rear sides of the shelf structures facing each other. The invention further relates to said apparatus, wherein the apparatus comprises at least one drainage gap between the two shelf structures enabling runoff water from a container to flow down the drainage gap following its exit from an inclined surface. The invention further relates to said apparatus, wherein the apparatus comprises separation wall positioned between the two shelf structures, providing a first drainage gap between an inclined surface of the first shelf structure and the separation wall, and a second drainage gap between an inclined surface of the second shelf structure and the separation wall. The invention further relates to said apparatus, wherein the apparatus comprises an external controller linked to electronic circuits of the control valve and / or to the controllable light source. The invention further relates to a monitoring system for monitoring one or more conditions of aquatic organisms cultivated in the apparatus. The monitoring system comprises a structure. The structure comprises a first track extending a first dimension of the apparatus. The structure further comprises a first rail extending a second dimension of the apparatus that is substantially perpendicular to the first dimension of the apparatus. The first rail being mounted on the first track and being movable along the first track. The structure further comprises a monitoring unit mounted on the first rail, the monitoring unit being movable across the first rail, so that the monitoring unit is traversable across a plane defined by the first and second dimension of the apparatus, wherein the monitoring unit comprises at least one camera, the monitoring unit being in data communication with an analysis unit comprising a computer readable medium for analyzing images from the at least one camera to assess one or more conditions. The structure may further comprise a second track extending the first dimension of the apparatus, the first rail further being mounted on the second track, the first rail further being movable across the second track. The structure may further comprise a second rail extending the second dimension of the apparatus, the second rail being mounted on the first and second track and being movable across the first and second tracks. Wherein the monitoring unit may further be mounted on the second rail, the monitoring unit being further movable across the second rail so that the monitoring unit is traversable across a surface defined by the first and second dimension of the apparatus. The monitoring system may further comprise a sensor unit, wherein the sensor unit may be mounted on the first rail, the sensor unit may be movable across the first rail, so that the sensor unit is traversable across a surface defined by the first and second dimension of the apparatus for access to each container of the apparatus. The sensor unit may be in data communication with the analysis unit. Wherein the sensor unit may further be mounted on the second rail and may be movable across the second rail. The monitoring system may further comprise at least one feeding unit, wherein the at least one feeding unit is mounted on the first rail. The at least one feeding unit may be movable across the first rail, so that the monitoring unit is traversable across a surface defined by the first and second dimension of the apparatus for access to each container of the apparatus. The at least one feeding unit may comprise a feed supply. The at least one feeding unit may comprise a dispensing mechanism for dispensing feed provided from the feed supply. The at least one feeding unit may comprise a sensor arranged downstream the direction of release of feed from the dispensing mechanism, the sensor being configured to measure the amount of feed released through the dispensing mechanism. The at least one feeding unit may comprise a conduit for leading the released feed into the container. The at least one feeding unit may be in data communication with the analysis unit. The at least one feeding unit may be configured to control a feed distribution based on image analysis by the analysis unit. Wherein the at least one feeding unit may further be mounted on the second rail and being movable across the second rail. The monitoring system, wherein the at least one camera, the at least one feeding unit, and / or the sensor unit may be integrated into a common housing. Wherein the dispensing mechanism may comprise a rotary cog for controlled dispensing of feed. Wherein the sensor may comprise a laser sensor. The invention further relates to a method of monitoring one or more conditions of aquatic organisms cultivated in the apparatus using the system. The method comprises: (a) obtain images from at least one container; (b) determine a quantity defining a normal behavior of the one or more aquatic organisms based on at least one of size, weight, sign of distress, amount of feed in the container, water level, water pressure, level of oxygen, level of ammonia, nitrates, level of filtration, molting stage, or a combination thereof; (c) calculate a deviation ^^^^from normal behavior; (d) adjust the amount of feed and / or the height of the water level and / or the light conditions in the at least one container based on the deviation ^^^^from normal behavior. The method may further comprise: (e) repeating the steps (a)-(c) (f) comparing the deviation ^^^^from normal behavior before the adjustment with the deviation ^^^^+1from normal behavior after the adjustment(g) decide on whether to adjust the amount of feed and / or the height of thewater level in the at least one container based on the difference between deviation ^^^^and deviation ^^^^+1from normal behavior. The method may further comprise: (h) storing the calculated deviations ^^^^, ^^^^+1… and(j) create an association between adjustment and deviation outcome(k) train a model based on the acquired associationList of figures Fig.1 is a perspective view of a cultivation apparatus according to the invention; Fig.2 provides a cross-sectional side view of the inventive apparatus, revealing the internal components of the containers; Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a container according to the invention; Fig.4A provides a cross-sectional side view of the inventive apparatus wherein a container is partially pulled out from its shelf, and Fig.4B provides a cross- sectional side view of the inventive apparatus wherein a container is completely removed from its shelf; and Fig.5 depicts the elevation of a shelf structure floor in the invention. Fig.6 is an exemplary perspective view of a cultivation apparatus. Fig.7 depicts an elevation of a shelf structure floor in an exemplary embodiment. Fig.8 shows an exemplary monitoring system. Fig.9 shows an exemplary monitoring system alongside an exemplary apparatus. Detailed description This invention represents a comprehensive and practical solution for the cultivation of benthic organisms such as lobsters, crayfish, mussels, crabs, sea cucumbers etc., integrating structural and functional elements for effective operation and maintenance. The invention may also be used for cultivating marine plant organisms or marine algae such as seaweed. The invention relates primarily to a land -based cultivation apparatus. Its main purpose is not to be designed for full immersion in water. Fig.1 is a perspective view of a cultivation apparatus according to the invention. The present invention pertains to an innovative semi-automated cultivation apparatus 1 designed for benthic organisms. Within this apparatus 1, multiple containers 2, also known as receptacles or tanks, serve as stress-free habitats and shelter for these organisms, allowing them to be nurtured and fed within the confines of each container 2. Notably, the apparatus 1 introduces a space-saving and efficiently organized configuration for placing the containers 2. This arrangement facilitates close stacking of the containers 2 on a vertical shelf structure, optimizing spatial utilization and promoting an organized cultivation environment. Fig.1 is a perspective view of a cultivation apparatus according to the invention. The apparatus 1 features a shelf structure 100, 101 (see Fig.2) that vertically organizes a plurality of shelves 400, each serving as a platform for placing the containers 2 on them. The shelves 400 can be supported by internal studs, post, uprights, other vertical elements, or an encompassing support rig comprising the same. A typical shelf structure 100, 101 of the invention generally incorporates a minimum of two shelves 400, with one shelf acting as a foundational base for at least one container 2, and another shelf 400 positioned directly above the container 2 on the lower shelf 400. This upper shelf 400 functions as a roof cover for the container 2 below, while also incorporating additional features to accommodate the containers 2 situated on the below shelf 400. Placed on these shelves 400, particularly on a shelf platform 406 of the shelves 400, are a set of containers 2 for holding, receiving and / or discharging water and housing aquatic organisms. The shelf platform 406 may extend continuously along the entire length of the shelf 400. These containers 2, or at least two of them, and may be arranged horizontally, i.e. along the x-axis of the figures, and directly adjacent to each other on the shelves 400. Facilitating convenient insertion and removal of containers 2 while ensuring space- efficient storage is an important aspect of this invention. The shelves 400, shelf platforms 406 and / or the containers 2 may incorporate means to facilitate removal and insertion of containers 2 such as tracks, extension bars, extendable shelf platforms like a drawer, and / or grooves on the shelf platform 406, all of them extending along the y-axis, to ensure that the containers 2 are aligned and exit and enter perpendicular to the shelves, i.e. along the y-axis. The containers 2 might feature tactile elements to enable easy gripping, removal, and insertion by either a human or a mechanical operation unit such as a robot or automated shelf structure operation unit. The apparatus 1 may include a cover structure 5 comprising at least one of at least one side wall and a roof cover. Fig.2 provides a cross-sectional side view of the inventive apparatus, revealing the internal components of the containers. At least one of the shelves 400 incorporates a shelf platform 406 for supporting the containers 2, while at least one among them provides a shelf ceiling 405. The lowermost of the shelves 400 does not need to have a ceiling and features to accommodate a container 2 below, as there are none, and the uppermost shelf of the shelf structure 100, 101 does not need to have a shelf platform 406, as there are no containers on the top shelf400. The top shelf 400 may thus be referred to as a container cover.At least one of the shelves 400 comprises at least one downwardly inclined surface 401 for facilitating water runoff from a container 2 above. The inclined surface 401 may extend continuously along the entire length of the shelf 400, or the shelves 400 may comprise a plurality of separated inclined surfaces 401, preferably one inclined surface for each container 2, or one inclined surface 401 for groups of containers 2. Consequently, at least one of the shelves 400 comprises both a downwardly inclined surface 401 and a shelf platform 406 providing support for the container 2. The depth of the shelf platform 406, a component of the shelf, is adequate to prevent tilting of the container 2 positioned on it. The inclined surface 401 may extend throughout the width of the respective shelf400. The shelf 400 may also be segmented so that the inclined surfaces 401 areseparate from each other. The inclined surface 401 can create a slope relative to the z-axis and / or the y-axis. Additionally, at least one of the containers 2 establishes fluid communication with the inclined surface 401 of a shelf 400 below via the drainage openings 17. All supporting shelves 400 may have an inclined surface 401, however the top shelf 400 (may be referred to as roof cover) may not need it as no container 2 is placed upon it. The apparatus 1 is designed such that a supply conduit 404 for supplying water and / or food to a container 2 is strategically mounted underneath the inclined surfaces 401. The supply conduit 404 may run continuously throughout the width of its respective shelf, and its flow may be regulated externally with the use of a pump and / or pump controller. Liquid and dry food can be externally added to the water flowing through the supply conduit 404. Advantageously, the pump system may operate one or more supply conduits and the pump system may be located externally to reduce noise. The supply conduit 404 may be perforated to provide outlets for one or more containers 2. This configuration allows for efficient water supply management, ensuring that the supply conduit 404 accommodates individual containers 2 or multiple containers 2 at once. In aspects, certain benthic organisms can reside on one shelf and receive the same water / food supply. A supply conduit 404 has the capability to extend across all containers 2 or a specific shelf 400, delivering water uniformly to all containers 2. This conduit may incorporate a control valve 408 in fluid connection, with one control valve assigned to either one container 2 or a plurality of containers 2. One or more control valves 408 may be connected to the supply conduit 404 and positioned above one or more containers 2 to supply fluid to the containers 2. Each control valve 408 is in fluid connection with one or several water exits in fluid connection with one or several containers 2. This arrangement allows for the individual regulation, shutdown, and activation of water supply for specific containers 2 or groups of containers 2. The control valve 408 may be electrical and linked to electronic circuits (not depicted) securely housed in the dry compartment 402. The control valves 408 may also be manual and manually operated. These circuits may extend to an external controller 409, which can be automated through machine learning algorithms, programmable scripts, or operated manually. The control valve 408 can also be positioned outside the shelf structure 100, 101 of the apparatus 1, controlling multiple water outlets in connection with several containers 2, such as an entire row of containers. Control valve 408 may be situated above respective containers 2 to operate them individually. The supply conduit 404 can be pressurized by an external pump operating a fluid reservoir. In the invention, all supply conduits 404 are capable of transporting water and / or food supply. When a container 2 is in the inserted position, the inclined surface 401 extends a certain distance rearward of both the above and below containers 2. This ensures that the inclined surface 401 protrudes beyond the containers 2, optimizing the runoff trajectory of excess water, avoiding water draining into a container 2 below. By protruding rearward in the inserted position, the inclined surface 401 facilitates effective water drainage, preventing water accumulation on the shelf 400 and contributing to the overall efficiency and maintenance of the apparatus 1. The apparatus ensures that supply of water and food can be customized and tailored to meet the specific requirements of the organisms within each respective container 2. In an aspect, the apparatus might comprise a first shelf structure 100 and a second shelf structure 101 arranged back-to-back, as depicted in Fig.2, although the apparatus can operate with just one shelf structure. Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a container 2 according to the invention. The containers 2 provide a distinctive construction comprising a container floor 200, rear container wall 202, front container wall 203, and a top opening. The front container wall 203 may be curved as shown in Fig.3. The container has a front part towards the front container wall 203, and a rear part towards the rear container wall 202. The container can be entirely open at the top, or it may feature an opening or aperture to permit the passage of lighting from the ceiling above and facilitate the inflow of water from the upper section. Additionally, the container floor 200 is equipped with drainage openings 17 located in proximity to the rear container wall 202 or in the rear container wall 202, preferably in a lower end of the container wall 202, enhancing the drainage functionality of the apparatus for maintaining optimal conditions for benthic organisms. The specific proximity can vary, but generally, the drainage openings 17 are positioned within approximately 40% of the length of the container 2 from its rear part, considering a front-to-back scale. This positioning is intentional to ensure that the drainage openings 17 effectively direct water onto the inclined surface 401 (see Fig.2, 4A and 4B) of the shelf 400 below, facilitating efficient water runoff. Furthermore, the container floor 200 may be void of any drainage opening in the middle and front part of the container floor 200 to facilitate and gather drainage to only the back of the container 2. The drainage openings 17 are typically located directly above an inclined ledge 401 of a below shelf 400 when the container 2 is in the inserted position so that water drains from the container 2 onto the inclined ledge 401 and runs off its ledge. Each container 2 may be equipped with an overflow drain 16 strategically positioned near the upper edge of the rear container wall 2. This arrangement ensures that in instances of excess water or overflow, the drainage process is initiated from a higher point within the container. Moreover, the patent claim highlights an important aspect of the invention where the containers 2 establish fluid communication with at least one inclined surface 401 of the shelf 400 below through the implemented overflow drain 16. This design facilitates efficient water drainage, directing it towards the shelf below, contributing to the overall functionality of the cultivation apparatus. Additionally, as per another aspect of the invention, the overflow drain 16 is equipped with a filtering barrier, such as a grating, grid, or mesh. This filtering element serves to prevent undesired debris or particles from entering the drainage system, enhancing the cleanliness and effectiveness of the drainage process in the apparatus. The overflow drain 16 also plays an important role by removing surface film / oil that may accumulate in the top water layer. This can impact the visibility within each container 2, making it challenging for an observer or an observing entity to assess the condition of the organism(s) in each container 2. Fig.4A provides a cross-sectional side view of the inventive apparatus 1 wherein a container 2 is partially pulled out from its shelf 400, and Fig.4B provides a cross- sectional side view of the inventive apparatus wherein a container 2 is completely removed from its shelf 400, i.e. wherein the container 2 is in a completely removed position. The containers 2 are moveable between an inserted position and a removed position. In the inserted position, the container 2 is fully covered by the shelf 400 above it, effectively providing a protective roof cover. The shelves 400 may include a controllable light source 403 integrated into or placed on the shelf ceiling 405. The light sources 403 may be e.g. LED-strips, spotlights etc. The shelves 400 may include a dry compartment 402 for housing e.g. electronic circuits in communication with the controllable light source 403. An important element of employing an upper shelf ceiling 405 to cover the containers 2 is to manage the lighting conditions within the containers. This control can range from maintaining complete darkness to regulating it using a controllable light source 403. The controllable light source 403 may be linked to the external controller 409 described above which extends to the electronic circuits of the control valve 408. In Figure 4A, one container 2 is depicted in a partially removed position, while the remaining containers 2 are in their inserted positions. When container 2 is partially removed, any fluids it contains can be drained through its drainage openings (see Fig.3; 17) located in proximity to its rear wall (see Fig.3; 202). In this partially removed state, container 2 is moved away from the supply conduit 404, interrupting the flow of fluid between the supply conduit 404 and container 2. While in this partially removed position, internal fluids exit through the drainage openings 17 and flow down onto the inclined surface 401 beneath container 2, facilitating drainage while the preventing exiting fluid from entering the container 2 positioned below the container 2 which is drained. A method of operating the apparatus 1 can be explained as follows. First, position the containers 2 within the shelf structure 100, 101 according to your desired configuration. Ensure that the containers 2 are properly aligned and securely in place. Activate the water supply to the supply conduit 404 by connecting it to a suitable water supply system. This will ensure a continuous supply of water to the containers 2. To activate waterborne / liquid feeding, add feed into the inlet water - according to the desired quantity and interval. This will ensure even distribution of feed to the animals in the containers without disturbing them. When it's time to empty the containers 2 and remove the animals, activate a draining mode, i.e. placing the container in a partially removed position as shown in Fig.4A. This will allow for a reduction in water level and easy removal of the containers 2 without affecting the water supply or the other animals in the rest of the system. After emptying the containers 2 and removing the animals, the containers 2 and new animals can be easily placed back in position, i.e. placing the containers 2 in the inserted position as shown in Fig.4B. The unique design of the invention ensures that the containers 2 can be removed and replaced without the need for complicated adjustments. Fig.5 depicts the elevation of a shelf structure floor in the invention. An embodiment of the apparatus 1 involves the integration of a first shelf structure 100 and a second shelf structure 101. Notably, these shelf structures 100, 101 are interconnected, forming a cohesive unit within the cultivation system. The arrangement is such that the second shelf structure 101 is positioned opposite to the first shelf structure 3, with the rear sides of the shelf structures 100, 101 facing each other. This juxtaposition enables an efficient and compact organization of the cultivation apparatus, making the containers 2 accessible from two sides of the apparatus 2. In aspects the apparatus 1 may include at least one drainage gap 103A, 103B between the two shelf structures 100, 101. These drainage gaps 103A, 103B serve as conduits for runoff water from a container 2, allowing it to flow seamlessly down following its exit from an inclined surface 404. This flow leads to a means (not shown) for collecting the water beneath the shelf structure 100, 101, enabling the controlled reuse or disposal of cultivation water. In an aspect, the apparatus may include an additional feature with the inclusion of a separation wall 11 positioned between the two shelf structures 100, 101. This separation wall 11 creates a first drainage gap 103A between the inclined surface 404 of the first shelf structure 100 and the separation wall 11, as well as a second drainage gap 103B between the inclined surface 404 of the second shelf structure 100 and the separation wall 11. These drainage gaps 103A, 103B contribute to an organized and effective runoff system, further enhancing the overall functionality of the cultivation apparatus. In instances where the separation wall 11 is employed, it serves multiple functions. Firstly, it acts as a safety barrier between the adjacent shelf structures 100, 101. Additionally, it aids in directing water flow downward, preventing splashing and ensuring water does not spread to the neighbouring shelf structure. This enhances water quality through improved oxygen diffusion and reduces the necessity for cleaning the apparatus 1. Moreover, the separation wall 11 guarantees that any contaminated or used water is directed into containers 2 on the corresponding shelf structure. Additionally, this solution aids in directing water flow downward and distributes the water over a thin surface, preventing splashing and ensuring water does not spread to the neighbouring shelf structure. Water distribution over thin surfaces allows for rapid gas diffusion and improves the systems overall water quality and reduces the necessity for cleaning the apparatus. Fig.6 is a perspective view of a cultivation apparatus according to the invention. Different organisms may require different amounts of space for rearing and growth. As well as different needs in social needs, some species thrive alone and are cannibalistic otherwise and some species thrive best when together. This invention facilitates for both singular and columnal rearing. The illustrated embodiment features containers of uneven sizes, exemplified by container 2B, which is broader than the other containers 2. The invention may encompass containers 2, 2B with diverse widths and dimensions. Additionally, the shelves 400 are vertically spaced at various distances to accommodate containers 2, 2B of varying heights. The containers 2, 2B within the apparatus 1 may share substantially the same depth to experience the consistent technical benefits of the discussed shelf structure 100, 101, however the containers 2, 2B may also have a variety of depths provided they are compatible with their supporting shelves. Fig.7 depicts the elevation of a shelf structure floor in the invention in an embodiment. Fig.7 shows the configuration of Fig.5, however, in this configuration, the apparatus 1 incorporates a singular shelf structure 100, creating an asymmetrical arrangement when viewed from above. This design proves beneficial when the apparatus 1 is e.g. intended to be positioned against a wall, offering a versatile storage solution. The container 2 or the shelf 400 may feature a chamber with an internal and an external slot (not shown). Through this chamber, an operator or operating entity can provide feed or observe the interior or the housed organism, without disturbing the organism. Alternatively, the container 2 or the shelf 400 may be provided with a covered or hole, opening, slot, (not shown) placed visually unnoticeable for the housed organism. Fig.8 shows a monitoring system 800 for monitoring one or more conditions of aquatic organisms cultivated in the apparatus 1. The monitoring system 800 comprises a structure. The structure comprises a first track 801a extending a first dimension of the apparatus 1. The first dimension in this example is parallel to the x axis. The structure further comprises a first rail 802a extending a second dimension of the apparatus that is substantially perpendicular to the first dimension of the apparatus, the first rail being mounted on the first track and being movable along the first track. The second dimension in this example is parallel to the z axis. The structure further comprises a monitoring unit 803 mounted on the first rail 802a, the monitoring unit being movable across the first rail 802a, so that the monitoring unit 803 is traversable across a plane defined by the first and second dimension of the apparatus. In this example that plane is the x-z plane. The monitoring unit 803 comprises at least one camera 804, the monitoring unit being in data communication with an analysis unit 805 comprising a computer readable medium for analyzing images from the at least one camera 804 to assess one or more conditions. The one or more conditions can be selected from water flow, water level, temperature, type of aquatic organisms, state of aquatic organisms, dimensions of aquatic organisms, molting stage. The analysis unit 805 may either be integrated in the monitoring unit, or externally, depending on if internet connectivity is available. It is preferred that the images can be captured from the at least one camera from various angles and from various distances in a third direction. The third direction in the present example is parallel to the y plane. In some embodiments the structure comprises further components that aid in the stability and the movement functionality of the monitoring system. The structure may further comprise a second track 801b extending the first dimension of the apparatus 1, the first rail 802a further being mounted on the second track 801b, the first rail 802a further being movable across the second track 801b. The structure may further comprise a second rail 802b extending the second dimension of the apparatus 1, the second rail 802b being mounted on the first and second track 801a, 801b and being movable across the first and second tracks 801a, 801b. The monitoring unit is further mounted on the second rail 802b, the monitoring unit being further movable across the second rail 802b so that the monitoring unit 803 is traversable across a surface defined by the first and second dimension of the apparatus 1. The skilled person will understand that the monitoring system may be adapted to the apparatus by rotating the monitoring system by 90 degrees, while still allowing the monitoring unit to be traversable across a plane defined by the first and second dimension of the apparatus 1. This can for example be realized by having the configurations of rail(s) and track(s) rotated by 90 degrees, such that the first dimension is parallel to the z axis and the second dimension is parallel to the x axis. The skilled person will further understand that the terms “rail” and “track” may be understood as “beam” or “guide”, and that they are not limited by their shape or their profile. The terms “rail” and “track” described above constitute components of a structure allowing for traversability of the monitoring unit across a plane such that the monitoring unit can access the containers of the apparatus 1. The skilled person will further understand that the monitoring unit is mounted and is movable along the rail(s) and that the rail(s) are mounted and are movable along the track(s) using conventional solutions existing in the state of the art such as lead screws, guide screws, rack and pinion or actuators. In one embodiment the monitoring system further comprises a sensor unit 806. The sensor unit is mounted on the first rail, the sensor unit being movable across the first rail, so that the sensor unit is traversable across a surface defined by the first and second dimension of the apparatus for access to each container of the apparatus. The sensor unit 806 is in data communication with the analysis unit805. In one embodiment, the sensor unit 806 is further mounted on the second rail802b and being movable across the second rail 802b. The sensor unit 806 comprises suitable sensors for measuring and monitoring conditions in the containers of the apparatus, or the apparatus as a whole. These conditions may be one of water pressure, water level, oxygen concentration, ammonia concentration, nitrates concentration, level of filtration, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the monitoring system further comprises at least one feeding unit 807. The at least one feeding unit 807 is mounted on the first rail 802a, the at least one feeding unit 807 being movable across the first rail 802a, so that the monitoring unit 803 is traversable across a surface defined by the first and second dimension of the apparatus for access to each container of the apparatus 1. The at least one feeding unit 807 comprises a feed supply. The at least one feeding unit 807 comprises a dispensing mechanism for dispensing feed provided from the feed supply. The at least one feeding unit 807 comprises a sensor arranged downstream the direction of release of feed from the dispensing mechanism, the sensor being configured to measure the amount of feed released through the dispensing mechanism. The at least one feeding unit 807 comprises a conduit for leading the released feed into the container. The at least one feeding unit being in data communication with the analysis unit 805, the at least one feeding unit 807 being configured to control a feed distribution based on image analysis by the analysis unit 805. In one embodiment, the monitoring system 800 comprises several, i.e. more than one, feeding units 807. This feature is particularly useful in instances where the feeding needs to be carried out with different types of feed depending on the type of aquatic organisms, their growth stage, their individual medical condition, or other parameter that impacts the choice of feed. The analysis unit 805 is able to control which feeding unit 807 of the several feeding units is equipped with the suitable type of feed for release in the individual container. The same functionality regarding the stability and the movement functionality of the monitoring system extend also to the feeding unit. Thus, the at least one feeding unit may further mounted on the second rail 802b and being movable across the second rail 802b. With further reference to the monitoring system 800 of Fig.8, the at least one camera, at least one feeding unit, and / or the sensor unit are integrated into a common housing. However, depending on the desired functionality, they may be mounted separately. Fig.9 shows the monitoring system 800 alongside the apparatus 1. The external controller 409 of the apparatus 1 is also depicted. The analysis unit 805 can be in data communication with the external controller 409, which has access to various parameters of the apparatus 1, and has the ability to control different components of the apparatus 1. This gives the possibility for a two-way data communication between the apparatus 1 and the monitoring system 800. For example, the analysis unit 805 can, based on image analysis from the at least one camera, or measurements from the sensor unit, communicate to the external controller 409 to adapt the light conditions in the apparatus 1 accordingly, or to adjust the water flow in the containers. In another exemplary function, the external controller may have been informed of irregularities regarding conditions in specific containers or in the apparatus as a whole. The external controller may communicate to the monitoring system 800 instructions to obtain the necessary images or other measurements and / or to adapt the amount of feed released in the container. The analysis unit 805 and the external controller 409 may be autonomous. They may be equipped with artificial intelligence algorithms that are trained on the expected “normal” conditions in the apparatus 1, and which can identify any irregularities, or can be used to train existing artificial intelligence algorithms. The artificial intelligence algorithms allow also for autonomous decisions, and for executing actions using the different components of the monitoring system 800 and the apparatus 1. The analysis unit 805 and / or the external controller 409 may also support cloud capabilities, allowing real time access control and monitoring of the apparatus 1 and the monitoring system 800. Regarding the at least one feeding unit, the dispensing mechanism comprises a rotary cog for controlled dispensing of feed. This is especially useful for applications where feed is to be released in a controlled manner. In a preferable embodiment when the feed is in the form of pellets, the rotary cog can be particularly useful for releasing the pellets one by one. The sensor of the feeding unit may comprise a laser sensor. In the preferred embodiment where the dispensing mechanism comprises a rotary cog and the feed is in the form of pellets, the laser sensor may be particularly suitable for measuring the pellets that are released one by one. In one aspect a method of monitoring one or more conditions of aquatic organisms cultivated in the apparatus 1 using the monitoring system 800 is provided. The method comprises: (a) obtain images from at least one container; (b) determine a quantity defining a normal behavior of the one or more aquatic organisms based on at least one of size, weight, sign of distress, amount of feed in the container, water level, water pressure, level of oxygen, level of ammonia, nitrates, level of filtration, molting stage, or a combination thereof; (c) calculate a deviation ^^^^from normal behavior; (d) adjust the amount of feed and / or the height of the water level and / or the light conditions in the at least one container based on the deviation ^^^^from normal behavior. The quantity defining a normal behavior can be a metric calculated using different measurements using sensors from the apparatus 1, and / or components of the monitoring system 800. The acquired measurements can also be subjected to analysis before the calculation of the quantity, such as image processing of images obtained from the at least one camera of the monitoring system 800. Preferably, the method further comprises: (e) repeating the steps (a)-(c) (f) comparing the deviation ^^^^from normal behavior before the adjustment with the deviation ^^^^+1from normal behavior after the adjustment (g) decide on whether to adjust the amount of feed and / or the height of the water level in the at least one container based on the difference between deviation ^^^^and deviation ^^^^+1from normal behavior. The method preferably further comprises: (h) storing the calculated deviations ^^^^, ^^^^+1… and (j) create an association between adjustment and deviation outcome (k) train a model based on the acquired association With the above methods, a library of a deviation, an adjustment and an outcome can be created. In this way, the monitoring system can be used to autonomously monitor and / or feed aquatic organisms cultivated in the apparatus 1.

Claims

P A T E N T C L A I M S 1. An apparatus (1) for the cultivation of aquatic organisms, comprising: a shelf structure (100, 101) comprising a vertical arrangement of a at least one shelf (400); wherein at the least one shelf (400) comprises a shelf platform (406); at least one container (2) for housing water and benthic organisms positioned on the at least one shelf (400); wherein the at least one container (2) comprises a container floor (200), a rear container wall (202), a front container wall (203) and a top opening; wherein the container floor (200) of the at least one container (2) comprises drainage openings (17) in proximity to the rear container wall (202) or in the container wall (202); characterized in that a shelf (400) or a roof structure located above the at least one container (2) comprises a supply conduit (404) for providing water to at the least one container (2) below establishing fluid communication between the supply conduit (404) and the at least one container (2) below; wherein the at least one shelf (400), on which the at least one container (2) is placed, comprises a downwardly inclined surface (401) for facilitating water runoff from the at least one container (2) above establishing fluid communication between the at least one container (2) and the inclined surface (401) of the below shelf (400) via the drainage openings (17); wherein the apparatus (1) is configured to enable the movement of at the least container (2) between an inserted position, a partially removed position, and a fully removed position while the apparatus (1) is in operation; wherein when at least one of the container (2) is in the inserted position, the at least one container (2) is at least partly covered by an above shelf (400) or a roof structure wherein the above shelf (400) or roof structure comprises a ceiling (405);wherein when the at least one container (2) is in the inserted position, the at least one container (2) is in fluid communication with an above supply conduit (404); and wherein when the at least one of the container (2) is moved to a partially removed position, the at least one container (2) is disconnected from fluid communication with the above supply conduit (404) while remaining in fluid communication with an inclined surface (401) of a below shelf (400).

2. An apparatus (1) according to any preceding claims, wherein said drainage openings (17) are located above or directly above, an inclined surface (401) of a below shelf (400) when the container (2) is in the inserted position.

3. An apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one container (2) comprises an overflow drain (16) positioned near the upper edge of the rear container wall (2), wherein the overflow drain (16) is in fluid connection with an inclined surface (401) of a below shelf (400) when the at least one container (2) is in the inserted position and when in a partially removed position.

4. An apparatus (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the overflow drain (16) comprises a filtering barrier such as a grating, a grid or a mesh.

5. An apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one shelf (200) or roof structure comprises a dry compartment (402) above its ceiling (405) for housing utilities such as electronic circuits.

6. An apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one shelf (200) or roof structure located above the at least one container (2) comprises a controllable light source (403) connected to its ceiling (405), enabling illumination to at least one container (2) below.

7. An apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein: the supply conduit (404) of the at least one shelf (400) is positioned beneath the inclined surface (401) of the respective at least one shelf (400); and / orwherein the supply conduit (404) is in fluid connection with a control device (408) for regulating water flow into the at least one container below (2).

8. An apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the inclined surface (401) of the at least one shelf (400) protrudes a distance rearward of the above and / or the below container (2) when the at least one of the above and / or the below container (2) is in the inserted position.

9. An apparatus (1) according to claim 1, comprising: a first shelf structure (100) identical to a shelf structure (100, 101) of any preceding claim, and a second shelf structure (100) identical to a shelf structure (100, 101) of any preceding claim; wherein the first shelf structure (100) and the second shelf structure (101) are connected; wherein the second shelf structure (101) is positioned opposite to first shelf structure (3) with the rear sides of the shelf structures (100, 101) facing each other.

10. An apparatus (1) according to claim 9, wherein the apparatus (1) comprises at least one drainage gap (103A, 103B) between the two shelf structures (100, 101) enabling runoff water from a container (2) to flow down the drainage gap (103A, 103B) following its exit from an inclined surface (404).

11. An apparatus (1) according to claim 10, wherein the apparatus (1) comprises separation wall (11) positioned between the two shelf structures (100, 101), providing a first drainage gap (103A) between an inclined surface (404) of the first shelf structure (100) and the separation wall (11), and a second drainage gap (103B) between an inclined surface (404) of the second shelf structure (100) and the separation wall (11).

12. An apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein the apparatus (1) comprises an external controller (409) linked to electronic circuits of the control valve (408) and / or to the controllable light source (403).

13. A method for cultivating aquatic organisms with the apparatus (1) according to any of the preceding claims, comprising the following steps: placing the at least one container (2) in the inserted position; activating the fluid supply through the supply conduits (404) of the at least one shelf (400); placing at least one aquatic organism in the at least one container (2); supplying liquid and / or dry fodder to the aquatic organism in the at least one container (2) through the supply conduit (404) and / or adding it directly into the at least one container (2).

14. A method according to claim 13, further comprising the following steps: at least partially draining the at least one container (2) of fluids by moving it to a partially removed position; at least partially removing the at least one container (2) from the apparatus and extracting at least one aquatic organism from the at least one container (2).

15. A monitoring system for monitoring one or more conditions of aquatic organisms cultivated in the apparatus of claim 1-12, comprising: a structure comprising: a first track extending a first dimension of the apparatus; a first rail extending a second dimension of the apparatus that is substantially perpendicular to the first dimension of the apparatus, the first rail being mounted on the first track and being movable along the first track; a monitoring unit mounted on the first rail, the monitoring unit being movable across the first rail, so that the monitoring unit is traversable across a plane defined by the first and second dimension of the apparatus, wherein the monitoring unit comprises at least one camera, the monitoring unit being in data communication with an analysis unit comprising a computer readable medium for analyzing images from the at least one camera to assess one or more conditions.

16. The monitoring system of claim 15, the structure further comprising:a second track extending the first dimension of the apparatus, the first rail further being mounted on the second track, the first rail further being movable across the second track; a second rail extending the second dimension of the apparatus, the second rail being mounted on the first and second track and being movable across the first and second tracks; wherein the monitoring unit is further mounted on the second rail, the monitoring unit being further movable across the second rail so that the monitoring unit is traversable across a surface defined by the first and second dimension of the apparatus.

17. The monitoring system of claim 15 or claim 16, further comprising a sensor unit, wherein the sensor unit is mounted on the first rail, the sensor unit being movable across the first rail, so that the sensor unit is traversable across a surface defined by the first and second dimension of the apparatus for access to each container of the apparatus, the sensor unit being in data communication with the analysis unit.

18. The monitoring system of claim 17, wherein the sensor unit is further mounted on the second rail and being movable across the second rail.

19. The monitoring system of any one of claims 15-18, further comprising at least one feeding unit, wherein the at least one feeding unit is mounted on the first rail, the at least one feeding unit being movable across the first rail, so that the monitoring unit is traversable across a surface defined by the first and second dimension of the apparatus for access to each container of the apparatus, the at least one feeding unit comprising: a feed supply a dispensing mechanism for dispensing feed provided from the feed supply;a sensor arranged downstream the direction of release of feed from the dispensing mechanism, the sensor being configured to measure the amount of feed released through the dispensing mechanism; and a conduit for leading the released feed into the container. the at least one feeding unit being in data communication with the analysis unit, the at least one feeding unit being configured to control a feed distribution based on image analysis by the analysis unit.

20. The monitoring system of claim 19, wherein the at least one feeding unit is further mounted on the second rail and being movable across the second rail.

21. The monitoring system of any one of claims 17-20, wherein the at least one camera, the at least one feeding unit, and / or the sensor unit are integrated into a common housing.

22. The monitoring system of any one of claims 19-21, wherein the dispensing mechanism comprises a rotary cog for controlled dispensing of feed.

23. The monitoring system of any one of claims 19-22, wherein the sensor comprises a laser sensor.

24. A method of monitoring one or more conditions of aquatic organisms cultivated in the apparatus of claim 1-12 using the system according to claim 15- 23, comprising: (a) obtain images from at least one container; (b) determine a quantity defining a normal behavior of the one or more aquatic organisms based on at least one of size, weight, sign of distress, amount of feed in the container, water level, water pressure, level of oxygen, level of ammonia, nitrates, level of filtration, molting stage, or a combination thereof; (c) calculate a deviation ^^^^from normal behavior; (d) adjust the amount of feed and / or the height of the water level and / or the light conditions in the at least one container based on the deviation ^^^^from normal behavior.

25. The method according to claim 24, further comprising: (e) repeating the steps (a)-(c) (f) comparing the deviation ^^^^from normal behavior before the adjustment with the deviation ^^^^+1from normal behavior after the adjustment (g) decide on whether to adjust the amount of feed and / or the height of the water level in the at least one container based on the difference between deviation ^^^^and deviation ^^^^+1from normal behavior.

26. The method according to claim 25, further comprising: (h) storing the calculated deviations ^^^^, ^^^^+1… and (j) create an association between adjustment and deviation outcome (k) train a model based on the acquired association

Images