System, method and devices for the recovery and restoration of glaciers

Abstract

The invention relates to a system that allows the use of ice formation to protect glaciers, based on technology for artificially inducing ice nucleation at specific, pre-identified strategic points on a glacier, thereby allowing for the direct collection of snow or ice, increasing the layer of ice on the glacier and preventing the shrinking thereof.

Description

[0001] SYSTEM, METHOD AND DEVICES FOR GLACIER RECOVERY AND RESTORATION

[0002] Technical Field:

[0003] The present invention relates to the optimized management of water resources in mountain ecosystems, specifically to a system for the formation, utilization and optimized maintenance of meltwater storage to extend access to water and improve the ecosystem by creating ice structures or “artificial ice reserves”.

[0004] Background of the Invention

[0005] A glacier is an accumulation of ice and snow that flows slowly across the land. At higher altitudes, more snow typically falls than melts, increasing its mass. Over time, the excess ice begins to flow downslope. At lower altitudes, melting usually occurs more rapidly, or icebergs calve off, removing mass of ice.

[0006] In particular, a mountain glacier is a mass of terrestrial ice that flows downhill, enclosed by surrounding topographic features such as valley slopes or adjacent peaks; the bedrock topography is the factor that exerts the greatest influence on the dynamics of a glacier and the slope of its surface, and is an element that subsists thanks to the accumulation of snow at high altitude, which is compensated by the melting of ice at low altitude or by discharge from the sea.

[0007] Mountain glaciers are important reservoirs of freshwater and act as key indicators of climate change. As the climate warms, many mountain glaciers worldwide are retreating, which has significant impacts on the water resources available to ecosystems and human communities.

[0008] Thus, there is an interest in protecting these ancestral water resources and reserves in different parts of the world where these types of natural structures exist. For example, in Chile, the company Suyai, in document CL 201503165, describes a protection system for the ablation zone of a glacier and the associated installation procedure. The system comprises at least a plurality of modular units, each composed of a folded mesh; at least one geotextile placed over the respective modular unit with a portion protruding from the surface of the modular unit and attached to each modular unit by mechanical connectors; and a plurality of anchoring means for anchoring the geotextile and each modular unit to the surface.

[0009] Also, WO2011135394A1 describes a process for the preservation and restoration of mountain glaciers, which would be achieved by significantly increasing the albedo of unprotected rocky areas and other potential heat-retention areas. To this end, it is proposed to identify exposed, snow-free areas in the mountains and then cover these areas with coating materials such as reflective white paint, dry ice, and artificial snow. Restoring mountain glaciers recovers freshwater reserves in solid form, which will guarantee the future of biomass and its increase. Furthermore, hydropower production can be increased because these reserves are located at a higher altitude than any dam.However, even though there are vague efforts to achieve the recovery and preservation of these glaciers, reductions in their size and melting continue to be detected in different parts of the world, which effectively endanger their long-term preservation. Therefore, despite these efforts, there is currently no technology that allows for the efficient and traceable recovery of ice directly from glaciers, including the prediction of the amount of water to be accumulated, depending on environmental conditions and the specific location of the recovery or capture of water in the form of ice. This would ensure preservation and prevent melting, and provide certainty of protection for these reserves, especially considering temperature variations and climate change in high mountain areas.

[0010] Summary of the Invention

[0011] The present invention consists of a system that allows the use of ice formation to protect glaciers, based on a technology to artificially generate ice nucleation, anchored to specific and strategic points pre-identified on a glacier, which allow the collection of snow or ice directly, increasing the ice layer on the glacier and preventing its reduction.

[0012] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0013] The present invention comprises a system, devices and method for protecting and restoring existing glaciers, promoting the formation of new ice layers on the glacier and thus preventing its reduction or destruction.

[0014] The system (FIGURE 1) comprises the installation of an ice nucleation structure for preserving glaciers (Blue Giants), which is based on the NILUS system or ice nucleation system, which uses the physics of freezing to create massive ice structures in an automated manner, and said structure comprises at least:

[0015] A tensioned steel cable, corresponding to a support structure between natural anchor points in the rock.

[0016] A set of automated sprinklers, which correspond to a set of nebulizers that spray water when the temperature drops below 0°C

[0017] An Intelligent Control, comprising a variety of temperature sensors that activate the system only under optimal conditions

[0018] which result in "Freezing in Air", where the water freezes before touching the ground, forming ice structures;

[0019] where once said initial structure is installed, the system comprises at least three pillars, components or protection mechanisms:MECHANISM 1

[0020] Windbreak: Ice barrier cuts the wind and reduces air speed

[0021] j SUBLIMATION: -17% or more

[0022] MECHANISM 2

[0023] Snow Capture: Intercepts white wind and Snow loses speed

[0024] + ACCUMULATION: Increase in additional ice mass (new layers) MECHANISM S

[0025] Thermal Anchoring: Additional ice mass, due to thermal inertia + shade

[0026] PROTECTION

[0027] It reduces melting, which ensures a protected glacier, where the three mechanisms work together to reduce the loss of glacial mass.

[0028] In one embodiment of the invention, the components of the invention are as follows:

[0029] Control System: Includes everything necessary to monitor and regulate the operation of the system, including: solar panels, power supply system (battery, charge controller, UPS, etc.), monitoring system or waterproof control box (including: sensors, monitor, router or data transmission system, satellite connection, etc.)

[0030] Steel Cable: Main support structure tensioned between anchors, 08-12mm, galvanized

[0031] Anchors: Permanent fixing to stable rock formations, which can be either chemical or mechanical.

[0032] Sprinklers: Uniform distribution of water in the cold air, nebulizer type, 360° spray (water direction: from bottom to top).

[0033] Nebulizers: These distribute water from a height towards the ice-forming structure to cover a larger area and facilitate the capture of water in the form of slush (microdroplets) and / or microsnow (water directed from a height greater than the support structure). Specifically, the nebulizer also includes a Venturi-type cavitation nozzle for atomizing water in spray ice-forming systems. Its purpose is to reduce the average droplet diameter through hydrodynamic cavitation. Thus, the complete system and the cavitation process significantly improve ice formation, achieving greater efficiency and accumulation in cold conditions.

[0034] This design is part of the Newen System for forming ice barriers in high mountain environments, where reducing droplet size increases the surface area to volume ratio and, consequently, the rate of heat transfer with the ambient air. HDPE pipe: Water conduction from the source, UV and frost resistant (low temperatures), and water distribution pump to lift water against gravity, for example, as a hydraulic ram pump.

[0035] Controller: Temperature-based automation, which activates when T < 0°C. Water Source: To maintain a continuous supply for sprinkler irrigation, which can be selected from the list comprising: stream, lagoon, snowmelt, or any combination thereof.

[0036] The method of operation of the invention corresponds to a Seasonal Operating Cycle, and comprises the following steps:

[0037] Stage 1 “Training”:

[0038] MAY - SEPTEMBER (southern hemisphere)

[0039] Cold Season

[0040] ACTIVE SYSTEM

[0041] Sprinklers operate when T < 0°C. Water freezes in the air. The Blue Giant grows progressively larger each night.

[0042] Stage 2 “Maximum”:

[0043] APRIL / OCTOBER (southern hemisphere)

[0044] Transition

[0045] MAXIMUM SIZE

[0046] Reduced operation depending on conditions. The structure reaches its maximum volume. Preparation for the warm season.

[0047] Stage 3 “Protection”:

[0048] NOVEMBER - MARCH (Southern Hemisphere)

[0049] Warm Season

[0050] INACTIVE SYSTEM

[0051] System inactive. The structure persists due to thermal mass. Gradual melting feeds the glacier.

[0052] where said methodology also corresponds to a self-renewing cycle, where each cold season (winter) the Blue Giant rebuilds and grows, while in warm seasons (summer) it acts as a thermal shield protecting the glacier from melting, and where, in addition, this methodology is replicable in both hemispheres, in a complementary way with respect to the respective seasonal situation.

[0053] The proposed invention also comprises a method for identifying specific suitable and ideal sites for installing ice nucleation structures, which allow the recovery and protection of the glacier from seasonal melting, as follows: Site Selection and Device Installation Methodology (FIGURE 2): where the objective is to identify the point where minimum material generates maximum impact, and where the key component is to look for active white wind corridors on the glacier, where the ice nucleation devices can be installed appropriately, resulting in sites with a score >85, which are prioritized for the installation of ice nucleation devices in glaciers that are to be protected by the system of the present invention.

[0054] Furthermore, the site selection methodology comprises the following stages:

[0055] Stage 1: Office - REMOTE ANALYSIS: In this stage, the analysis of satellite images, historical meteorological data is carried out and the mapping of available water resources is also carried out, in the area where the glacier to be protected is located.

[0056] Stage 2: Field - ON-SITE VERIFICATION: In this stage, wind indicators are verified, and local parameters are measured using the system's various sensors, including temperature, pressure, humidity, wind, and any other required sensors compatible with the control system. Everything is documented, including images (photos) and location (GPS coordinates). Stage 3: Evaluation - SCORING: A maximum score of 100 points is used, which includes: i) Disqualification criteria, and ii) Site classification.

[0057] Stage 4: Design - PLANNING: Orientation perpendicular to the wind, Dimensions 50-60m x 2.5m, Windward positioning

[0058] EXAMPLES

[0059] Example 1 - White Wind Indicators in the Field

[0060] These natural formations reveal the patterns of snow transport by wind, where the exercise of identifying them allows locating the optimal points to install the Blue Giants.

[0061] Sastrugi: (FIGURE 3A) Irregular ridges carved by the wind into the snow surface. Oriented parallel to the prevailing wind — > Indicates wind direction. Penitentes: (FIGURE 3B) Ice / snow needles up to several meters high. They form by differential sublimation in dry, sunny environments — > Indicates high sublimation. Snow Cornices: Accumulations on ridges and edges, formed by the deposition of snow transported downwind — > Indicates deposition area

[0062] Snow Dunes: Ripples similar to sand dunes, with a gentle slope on the windward side and a steep slope on the leeward side — > Indicates active snow flow

[0063] Polished Surfaces: Areas of compact, shiny snow, eroded by the constant wind that stirs up loose particles — > Indicates erosion zone (avoid) Example 2 - Scoring system of the invention

[0064] The scoring system of the invention comprises the following categories: Total Scoring System: 100 Points, which is composed as follows: 30% Wind Exposure

[0065] 25% Water Availability

[0066] 20% Thermal Conditions

[0067] 15% Anchoring Infrastructure

[0068] 10% Glacier Proximity

[0069] Site Classification: Based on the previous score, depending on the score provided by the system, the following categories are found:

[0070] >85 - OPTIMAL: Maximum priority for immediate installation

[0071] Between 70 and 84 points - GOOD: Viable with minor design adjustments

[0072] Between 55 and 69 points - ACCEPTABLE: Requires further evaluation

[0073] <55 - MARGINAL: Not recommended without improvements

[0074] Furthermore, the scoring system includes a set of automatic disqualification criteria, which correspond to the following conditions: Slope >30° | No water at <500m | North facing | <4 hours below 0°C

[0075] Example 3 - Example of implementation of the invention:

[0076] To carry out the installation of the devices and the recovery system for the Blue Giants, the following steps are required:

[0077] 1. Identify Site: Satellite analysis and selection of the target glacier for the installation of the first device.

[0078] 2. Field Evaluation: Check white wind indicators, anchors, and water sources.

[0079] 3. Barrier Design: Define orientation, dimensions, and technical specifications. 4. Installation and Monitoring: Implement system and measure impact on glacier protection. Brief description of the figures.

[0080] FIGURE 1. General scheme of the operation of the proposed invention system. FIGURE 2. Schematic of the Site Selection and Device Installation Methodology. FIGURE 3. Images of natural formations that reveal wind-driven snow transport patterns: A) Sastrugi, and B) Penitentes.

[0081] FIGURE 4. Graphical representation of the system of the invention in operation.

[0082] FIGURE 5. Schematic of the basic geometry for the development of the improved nebulizer of the proposed invention (NEWEN System): 5.1 - Dimensions, and 5.2 - Table of final dimensions.

[0083] FIGURE 6. Representative diagram of the improved nebulizer device of the invention. FIGURE 7. Explanatory diagram of the operation of the improved nebulizer device of the invention.

Claims

1. A system for the recovery and protection of glaciers from melting due to seasonal temperature variations, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a. A portable ice nucleation system, which can be installed at different points on the glacier to form a network for protection, snow capture and the formation of new layers of ice and snow on the glacier, wherein the ice nucleation system comprises: i. A temperature sensor at ground level where the ice nucleation system will be installed, i. An automatic controller, which includes: a set of solar panels, a power supply system (battery, charge controller, wiring, UPS), a monitoring system comprising: a waterproof control box, sensors, a monitor, at least one data transmission system, and a satellite connection device, and wherein, in addition, the sensors include: a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a humidity sensor, a wind sensor, and any other environmental sensor necessary for the operation of the system, arranged at the different specific control points, depending on the geography and conditions of the glacier to be recovered. iii. A water distribution system, comprising: pipes, sprinklers, misters, and a water distribution pump, wherein the pipes are made of HDPE, the sprinklers allow water to be distributed at an angle of up to 360°, the misters distribute water in the form of rain or a waterfall for the formation of slush microdroplets, wherein the mister also comprises a Venturi-type cavitation nozzle design for water atomization in spray ice formation systems, achieving a reduction in the average diameter of the expelled droplet, and wherein said pump corresponds to a ram pump; and iv. An anchoring system, comprising: a steel cable and a set of anchors, wherein the steel cable is tensioned by means of the anchors, to fix the ice nucleation structure to the desired glacier site; b. A water supply source, which corresponds to a natural or artificial water source near the installation site of the ice nucleation system; c. An automated controller, which activates the nucleation system based on temperature, when said temperature is equal to or less than 0 degrees Celsius.

2. A method for operating the system of claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the method of operating the system corresponds to a seasonal operating cycle, and comprises the following steps: a. Stage 1 “Formation”: corresponds to the activation stage of the system, where such activation occurs in the cold season of the hemisphere (winter), and is characterized by the activation of the sprinklers, which are activated by the automated controller and operate when T < 0°C, allowing the water to freeze in the air, and new layers of ice to form on the glacier, favoring its progressive growth each night, for a period of at least 4 months, starting from May to September in the southern hemisphere, and their respective equivalent months in the northern hemisphere. b.Stage 2 “Maximum”: This corresponds to the transition stage, where the ice nucleation structure reaches its maximum volume through controlled and reduced operation according to environmental conditions, and where the glacier also reaches its maximum size. This stage lasts up to 6 months and is the preparation stage for a warm season, which can last up to 6 months, beginning from April to October in the Southern Hemisphere, and the corresponding months in the Northern Hemisphere. c. Stage 3 “Protection”: corresponds to the warm stage, where the nucleation system is turned off and is inactive, where the ice structure formed is maintained and persists as a result of the thermal mass, and where the gradual melting feeds the glacier, and where, in addition, this stage can last up to 4 months, including from November to March, in the southern hemisphere, and their respective equivalent months in the northern hemisphere. where said methodology also corresponds to a self-renewing cycle, where each cold season (winter) the glacier rebuilds and grows, while in warm seasons (summer) it acts as a thermal shield protecting the glacier from melting, and where, in addition, this methodology is replicable in both hemispheres, in a complementary way with respect to the respective seasonal situation.

3. A method for identifying specific suitable and ideal sites for installing ice nucleation structures, which allow the recovery and protection of the glacier from seasonal melting, CHARACTERIZED in that the objective of said method is to identify the point where minimum material generates maximum impact, and where the key component is to look for active white wind corridors on the glacier, where the ice nucleation devices can be installed appropriately, where sites with a score >85 are obtained as a result, which are prioritized for the installation of ice nucleation devices in glaciers that are to be protected by the system of the present invention, and where, in addition, the site selection methodology comprises the following stages: a.Stage 1: Office - REMOTE ANALYSIS: In this stage, satellite image analysis and historical meteorological data are performed, and available water resources are mapped in the area where the glacier to be protected is located. Stage 2: Field - IN-SITU VERIFICATION: In this stage, wind indicators are verified, and local parameters are measured using the system's various sensors, including temperature, pressure, humidity, wind, and any other required sensors compatible with the control system. Everything is documented, including images (photos) and location (coordinates, GPS). c. Stage 3: Evaluation - SCORING: A system of 100 maximum points is considered, which includes: i) Disqualifying criteria, and i) Site classification. d. Stage 4: Design - PLANNING: Orientation perpendicular to the wind, Dimensions 50-60m x 2.5m, Windward positioning 4. The method of claim 3, CHARACTERIZED in that the scoring system of the invention comprises the following categories: a. Total Scoring System: 100 Points, which is composed as follows: i. 30% Wind Exposure i. 25% Water Availability iii. 20% Thermal Conditions iv. 15% Anchoring Infrastructure v. 10% Glacier Proximity 5. The method of claim 3, CHARACTERIZED in that the site classification comprises the following categories: a. >85 - OPTIMAL: Maximum priority for immediate installation b. Between 70 and 84 points - GOOD: Viable with minor design adjustments c. Between 55 and 69 points - ACCEPTABLE: Requires further evaluation d. <55 - MARGINAL: Not recommended without improvements 6. The method of claim 3, CHARACTERIZED in that the disqualifying criteria correspond to the following conditions: a. Slope >30° b. No water at <500m c. North orientation d. <4 hours below 0°C 7. A method for installing the ice nucleation system of claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises the following steps: a. Identify Site: Satellite analysis and selection of the target glacier for the installation of the first device. b. Field Evaluation: Check white wind indicators, anchors, and water sources. c. Barrier Design: Define orientation, dimensions, and technical specifications d. Installation and Monitoring: Implement system and measure impact on glacier protection

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