Fish Transfer Manifold for Head-First Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fish transfer methods using pumps often result in fish being drawn into the pump tail first, leading to increased stress and reduced sea lice removal efficiency, as fish are not naturally inclined to swim against the suction current.
Innovation Solution
A directional fish transfer apparatus featuring a funnel-shaped collection structure with a circular ring frame and reducing wall, utilizing spaced apart bars and a manifold to create a reverse current, encouraging fish to swim head-first into the pump suction, thereby maximizing sea lice removal and minimizing fish stress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional pump suction cone is used to transfer fish, then fish can be transferred efficiently, but fish are drawn into the pump tail first causing increased stress and reduced sea lice removal efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The invention inverts the conventional approach by creating an outward flowing water current that encourages fish to swim head-first against the current, rather than relying on suction that draws fish in tail-first. The manifold system reverses the flow direction to align with fish swimming behavior and sea lice removal requirements
2Productivity
If fish are crowded into the pump suction area, then transfer speed increases, but fish stress increases and directional control is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces an intermediary water current system that mediates between the fish and the pump suction. The manifold creates a controlled water flow that guides fish naturally toward the suction area head-first, eliminating the need for physical crowding and reducing stress while maintaining transfer efficiency
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 apparatus effectively orients fish to enter the pump head-first, reducing stress and enhancing sea lice removal efficiency, thereby minimizing the need for chemical treatments and improving fish handling during harvesting.
Implementation Method 1
A manifold having at least one aperture is used for directing water through the spaced apart bars. The manifold is placed at a predetermined position along the length of the passageway with the flow of water exiting the passageway at the ring frame.
Implementation Method 2
Once the fish passes the manifold, the fish is subject to the suction caused by the fish transfer pump and drawn into the suction pipe for transfer.
Implementation Method 3
The properly facing fish is more susceptible to sea lice removal especially when coupled to a Coanda effect fish transfer pump.
Data Source
AI summary
A fish transfer apparatus for directional positioning of fish entering a fish transfer pump reducing injury, stress and enhancing sea lice removal when coupled to a Coanda effect fish transfer pump. The apparatus employs a collection structure constructed from a funnel shaped passageway made of spaced apart bars. A manifold is positioned along an outer surface of the spaced apart bars for directing a flow of water through the passageway at a predetermined position. Fish approaching the apparatus are naturally attracted to the outward flow of water past the ring frame and will enter the passageway as they will be swimming against the current. Once the fish passes the manifold, the fish is subject to the suction caused by the fish transfer pump and drawn into the suction pipe for transfer.