Autonomous Submersible Cage with Low-Speed Propulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Open ocean aquaculture systems face challenges with depth limitations, requiring robust moorings, human intervention for maintenance, and inefficiencies in propulsion systems, which restrict their operational flexibility and sustainability.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous submersible structure equipped with large-diameter, low-speed propellers and a navigating system that uses sensors and computers to control movement and depth, allowing for autonomous navigation and efficient operation without the need for constant human intervention, and utilizing a small power generation system for extended operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional small propellers rotating at high speed are used, then propulsion speed can be achieved, but propulsion efficiency is low and energy consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the key parameters of the propulsion system by using large-diameter propellers (1.5-3 times the cage diameter) rotating at low speed (10-50 RPM) instead of small high-speed propellers. This parameter transformation achieves higher propulsive efficiency while reducing energy consumption, directly resolving the contradiction between propulsion efficiency and rotational velocity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the submersible cage is positioned deep in the open ocean, then effluent dispersion is improved, but depth limitations and robust mooring requirements arise
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous submersible cage serves itself by using onboard sensors to monitor water quality and cargo conditions, and an autonomous navigation system to adjust its position and depth. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex mooring systems and human intervention, allowing the cage to operate freely in deep open ocean while maintaining optimal conditions for effluent dispersion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical mooring system with an autonomous control system that uses sensors, computers, and propulsion to actively manage the cage's position and orientation. This substitution transforms the passive mechanical restraint system into an active intelligent control system, reducing mooring complexity while maintaining adaptability.
3Reliability
If humans travel to the submersible cage for maintenance and monitoring, then cargo care can be performed, but operational continuity is disrupted and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The submersible cage is equipped with onboard sensors that autonomously monitor water quality, cargo health, and system status. The navigation system automatically adjusts position and depth based on sensor feedback, eliminating the need for human travelers and achieving continuous reliable monitoring without disrupting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a closed-loop feedback system where sensors continuously monitor cargo conditions and water quality, and the navigation system uses this feedback to autonomously adjust the cage's position and depth. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable cargo monitoring and maintenance while maximizing autonomous operation.
4Power
If large power generation systems are installed, then energy availability increases, but the size of the environmentally sealed portion above water must increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the power generation approach by using high-efficiency propulsion systems that consume less energy, allowing for a smaller power generation system. The large-diameter low-speed propellers achieve superior propulsive efficiency, reducing the overall power requirement and enabling a compact above-water platform that does not compromise stability or functionality.
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
The autonomous system enhances operational flexibility, reduces human travel needs, and achieves high propulsion efficiency, enabling prolonged open ocean operation while maintaining optimal conditions for aquatic cargo.
Implementation Method 1
The propulsion system of the system can use propellers with large diameters, slow speed, and high efficiency to move the structure
Implementation Method 2
The autonomous submersible structure includes a ballast for counterbalancing the weight of the raised platform
Data Source
AI summary
An autonomous submersible structure includes a cage for protecting cargo contained within a volume of the cage, two or more independently operated propellers, and a raised platform. The raised platform includes a plurality of sensors and computers that detect at least one of: water quality, water pressure, or objects in the vicinity of the cage. The raised platform includes a navigating system that controls a direction of travel of the cage based on feedback provided by the plurality of sensors and computers, and a power generator that provides power to the sensors, the navigating system, and the feeding mechanism. The autonomous submersible structure includes a ballast for counterbalancing the weight of the raised platform, wherein the navigating system controls the two or more independently operated propellers to alter the direction of travel of the cage, and wherein the raised platform is environmentally sealed and a portion of the raised platform is positioned above water level.