Alveolar Panel with Integrated Pressurized Hydraulic Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing alveolar panels lack the capability to integrate a hydraulic circuit, limiting their use in creating pressurized environments for cultivating photosynthetic organisms under controlled conditions.
Innovation Solution
A system is developed within the alveolar panel using transparent plastic materials and sealing elements to create a pressurized hydraulic circuit, allowing for the formation of serpentine or other types of circuits, and connections between panels, enabling efficient circulation of liquids for optimal light exposure and nutrient distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If alveolar panels are used as simple structural elements, then manufacturing simplicity and cost-effectiveness are maintained, but the capability to create pressurized hydraulic circuits is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the structural function of the alveolar panel with the hydraulic circuit function by integrating sealing elements directly into the panel structure. The sealing elements are inserted into grooves within the alveolar chambers, combining what would traditionally be separate components (panel structure and hydraulic sealing system) into a single integrated unit, thereby enabling hydraulic circuit capability without adding external complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The alveolar panel is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it maintains its structural support role while also creating pressurized hydraulic circuits for cultivating photosynthetic organisms. The internal grooves and sealing elements enable the panel to function both as a structural element and as a hydraulic conduit, making the panel a multi-functional component
2Reliability
If sealing elements are inserted into alveolar channels to create hydraulic circuits, then liquid-tight sealing is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing elements are designed with insertion grooves that are pre-formed during panel manufacturing. This preliminary structuring of the sealing paths allows for easier subsequent insertion of sealing elements during assembly, reducing the complexity of the manufacturing process while ensuring reliable liquid-tight sealing
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing elements act as intermediary components that bridge the gap between the alveolar chamber walls and the hydraulic circuit requirements. These elements are inserted into grooves and create the necessary seal without requiring complex welding or bonding processes, simplifying the overall manufacturing while achieving reliable sealing
3Illumination intensity
If transparent plastic material is used for the panel, then light exposure for photosynthesis is maximized, but structural strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs transparent plastic material (such as polycarbonate) that combines both optical transparency for light transmission and sufficient structural strength for panel support. This composite material approach allows the panel to simultaneously maximize light exposure for photosynthesis while maintaining the mechanical strength required for structural application and pressurized hydraulic circuit containment
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 solution enhances the cultivation of photosynthetic organisms by maximizing light exposure, reducing adhesion risks, and ensuring uniform nutrient distribution, while minimizing energy consumption and maintaining a controlled environment for efficient production.
Implementation Method 1
The present invention regards a profile section, in particular an alveolar panel, equipped with sealing systems for making a pressurised hydraulic circuit
Implementation Method 2
at least one liquid-tight sealing and connection element (3) to apply to the walls of the panel (1) to make a pressurised hydraulic circuit inside the channels (5)
Implementation Method 3
enabling efficient circulation of liquids for optimal light exposure and nutrient distribution
Data Source
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AI summary
A solution is described that enables a pressurised hydraulic circuit to be made inside the channels (5) of an alveolar panel (1); the panel (1) can be made of a transparent plastic material that enables the liquid to be irradiated by external light; the panel (1) in a transparent material can be used as a light exposure apparatus of a photobioreactor (14) destined to the cultivation of various types of organisms; the organisms produced can be used in the fields of energy generation, pharmaceutics, cosmetics and for human or animal nutrition.