Algal Cell Feed Selection by Growth Stage for Fish Ingestion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current feeding methods for algae-eating fish and shellfish do not optimize ingestion efficiency, as they do not account for the preferred stage of growth or division of algal cells, leading to suboptimal nutrient intake and growth.

Innovation Solution

A method involving the selection of algal cells based on their stage of growth or division by feeding multiple samples with varying stages and determining which stage is most preferred by the fish or shellfish, followed by culturing and supplying algal cells in that specific stage for feeding.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If algal cells are fed to algae-eating fish or shellfish without selecting for specific growth stages, then the feeding process is simple and quick, but the ingestion efficiency and nutrient intake are suboptimal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveingestion efficiencyVSAvoidfeed selection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by selecting algal cells based on their growth stage parameter (younger vs. older cells). This involves changing the characteristic parameter of the feed material to optimize ingestion efficiency. The method determines which growth stage parameter yields better feeding results and standardizes the feed preparation accordingly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary action by pre-determining and pre-selecting the optimal growth stage of algal cells before feeding. This involves conducting experiments to identify the best growth stage in advance, then using this knowledge to prepare feed consistently, avoiding the need for trial-and-error during actual feeding operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Measurement precision

If multiple samples with different algal cell growth stages are prepared and tested, then the feed selection becomes more precise and optimized, but the time and resources required increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefeed preference determination precisionVSAvoidtime for feed determination
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies feedback by conducting experiments where algae-eating fish or shellfish are fed different growth stages of algal cells, then observing and measuring which stage is most preferred. This feedback loop allows the optimal growth stage to be identified through systematic testing and evaluation of feeding responses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary action by performing feed preference determination experiments in advance before actual production feeding. This involves pre-testing multiple growth stages to identify the optimal one, so that when actual feeding occurs, the decision is already made and can be implemented consistently without time-consuming trial-and-error.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If algal cells of uniform growth stage are used as feed, then the feeding process is standardized and efficient, but the adaptability to different fish or shellfish species is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefeeding process standardizationVSAvoidspecies-specific feed adaptation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by determining the optimal growth stage parameter specific to each species or group of species. Different fish or shellfish may have different preferences for algal cell age, so the method involves adjusting this parameter to match the specific nutritional needs and feeding behavior of each species while maintaining standardization within that species group.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20240358045A1Method of determining feed for algae-eating fish and shellfish, method of feeding algae-eating fish and shellfish, and method of producing feed
Publication Date: 2024.10.31 NT T INC
  • US20240358045A1 patent drawing
  • US20240358045A1 patent drawing
  • US20240358045A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A technology for enhancing ingestion efficiency of algae-eating fish and shellfish is provided. A method of determining feed for algae-eating fish and shellfish includes: feeding algae-eating fish or shellfish with a plurality of samples, the samples each containing algal cells and being different from each other in a stage of growth or division of the algal cells; and selecting, as a feed for giving to the algae-eating fish or shellfish, the algal cells whose stage of growth or division is the same as that of the algal cells contained in the sample most preferably eaten by the algae-eating fish or shellfish.