Cavitation Barrier Control for Selective Fish Exclusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional exclusion structures, such as underwater fences, have failed to prevent the spread of Asian carp populations effectively, as they are costly, harmful to other species, and disrupt ecosystems, while existing deterrents are unwieldy and ineffective.
Innovation Solution
A cavitation barrier system using propellers to create a rotationally confined vertical column of cavitation bubbles, which acts as a non-physical deterrent that is sustainable and safe for humans, wildlife, and navigation, with a controller to adjust barrier strength for non-target species passage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional exclusion structures such as underwater fences are used to prevent Asian carp spread, then barrier function is provided, but the structures are costly, harmful to other species, and disrupt ecosystems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical exclusion structures (fences, screens) with a hydrodynamic cavitation system. Propellers generate rotating cavitation bubbles that form a barrier invisible to humans and wildlife, eliminating physical obstructions and harmful mechanical interactions while maintaining effective carp deterrence through the cavitation zone's repulsive effect on fish
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces cavitation bubbles as an intermediary substance between the propeller and the carp. These bubbles create a zone of altered water pressure and density that repels carp without requiring direct contact between the propeller and the fish, thereby protecting wildlife while maintaining barrier functionality
2Reliability
If elaborate electric fences are deployed to block carp migration, then exclusion capability is enhanced, but the systems become unwieldy, expensive, and potentially harmful to navigation and infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electrical systems with a simpler hydrodynamic system using propellers and cavitation. This substitution eliminates the need for electrical infrastructure, power transmission lines, and complex control systems while maintaining effective carp exclusion through the cavitation barrier
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates the harmful and complex electrical components from the barrier system, retaining only the essential hydrodynamic function. By removing electrical fences, power supplies, and associated infrastructure, the system becomes simpler, cheaper, and safer for navigation while preserving carp exclusion capability
3Reliability
If physical barriers are installed to prevent carp jump migration, then exclusion function is provided, but navigation and natural aquatic environment are disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical barriers with an invisible hydrodynamic field created by cavitation bubbles. This field effectively blocks carp migration through acoustic and pressure effects while remaining transparent to navigation and natural aquatic flows, eliminating disruptions to boats and ecosystem processes
4Reliability
If cavitation barrier is used to exclude carp, then effective deterrence is achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic operation of the propellers, activating them only when carp detection is confirmed or during high-risk periods. This pulsed operation reduces energy consumption compared to continuous operation while maintaining effective deterrence when needed, balancing energy use with barrier 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
Effectively excludes Asian carp and other aquatic species without altering water chemistry or causing harm, while allowing non-target species to pass through, reducing the spread of invasive fish and protecting native ecosystems.
Implementation Method 1
at least drive unit comprising a motor and a propeller configured for inducing cavitation in water, the cavitation taking the form of a rotationally confined vertical column of cavitation bubbles extending from the propeller
Implementation Method 2
The cavitation barrier offers a sustainable, long-term approach to exclusion of carp and other aquatic species
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide a novel deterrent barrier based on the phenomenon of fluid cavitation. A drive unit comprising a motor and a propeller are configured for inducing cavitation in water. The cavitation takes the form of a rotationally confined vertical column of cavitation bubbles extending from the propeller, and a one-dimensional series of drive units spanning the width of a waterway may provide an effective, environmentally friendly and non-lethal barrier against entry of target fish species.