Algae Growth Tank with Circulating Impeller and Light Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current algae growth methods, such as open pond systems and clear bag/tube technologies, are vulnerable to weather extremes, contamination, and maintenance issues, and require extensive infrastructure, limiting control over temperature and lighting, which affects algae growth rates and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A cylindrical tank with a transparent lid and an impeller system that circulates growth media, creating both illuminated and dark sections to control light exposure and promote algae growth, while using additional light sources and temperature control to optimize conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If open pond systems are used for algae growth, then large area coverage is achieved, but control over temperature and lighting is lost and contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible transparent bags made of durable plastic material to contain the algae growth media. These bags can be deployed over existing terrain without requiring extensive construction, achieving large area coverage while maintaining controlled internal environments. The flexible nature allows adaptation to various land surfaces while the enclosed structure provides protection from contamination and enables control over temperature and lighting conditions.
2Reliability
If clear plastic tubes are used for algae growth, then controlled environment is achieved, but durability decreases and maintenance issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies using durable plastic material for the bags that resists degradation from sunlight and weather. This composite material approach combines transparency for light transmission with enhanced durability properties, eliminating the need for frequent replacement while maintaining controlled growth conditions. The material is designed to withstand continuous exposure to environmental factors without degrading.
3Illumination intensity
If shallow ponds are used for algae growth, then light penetration is sufficient, but volume of algae production is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates mixing mechanisms within the enclosed bags to dynamically circulate the algae growth media. This dynamic mixing ensures that algae cells are continuously brought into contact with light throughout the volume of the bag, allowing deeper and more voluminous cultures to maintain adequate light penetration. The mixing action prevents settling and ensures uniform light distribution throughout the entire volume.
4Reliability
If extensive infrastructure is constructed for algae growth, then permanent installation is achieved, but land usage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs individual modular bags that can be independently deployed and managed. Each bag functions as a separate, self-contained unit for algae cultivation. This segmentation allows multiple bags to be distributed across the available land area, creating a permanent installation through numerous discrete units rather than requiring one large fixed structure, thereby reducing overall land usage requirements while maintaining reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for controlled and efficient algae growth, reducing vulnerability to weather and contamination, increasing production volume, and extending system lifespan by maintaining optimal light and temperature conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a lid for closing the open top, the lid being at least partially transparent
Implementation Method 2
an impeller within the tank including: a barrel extending substantially horizontally between the first end and the second end, the barrel defining a barrel axis about which the impeller rotates
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for growing algae includes a tank for containing growth media, a transparent lid for closing an open top of the tank, and an impeller coupled to a barrel within the tank. A method for growing algae includes swirling a growth media in a tank such that the growth media circulates around the tank passing by a dark section of the tank and an illuminated section of the tank.