Interlocking Hydroponic Raft with Thermal Chimneys
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydroponic raft systems suffer from undesired algal growth, inconsistent temperature control, and nutrient deficiencies due to algal competition for oxygen and nutrients, leading to root rot and increased particulate matter, as well as overheating in greenhouses which can lead to crop loss.
Innovation Solution
A new floating raft system comprising interlocking raft portions with 'tab & tab blank' connections, thermal chimneys, and sensors for environmental monitoring, which reduces algal growth by minimizing light penetration and optimizes temperature regulation through gas exchange, thereby maintaining ideal growing conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a continuous raft is used to cover the pond surface, then light penetration is reduced and algal growth is decreased, but device complexity increases due to the need for interlocking connections
Solution Approach 1:
The raft is divided into multiple modular segments that can be assembled together using interlocking tabs and tab blanks. Each segment is a separate component with standardized connection features, allowing the system to achieve complete pond coverage while maintaining manufacturing simplicity and ease of assembly.
2Temperature
If thermal chimneys are added to the raft design, then temperature control is improved through gas exchange, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal chimneys are integrated into the raft segment design as multi-functional features that serve both structural and thermal regulation purposes. The same raft segments that provide buoyancy and plant support also incorporate thermal chimneys for gas exchange, eliminating the need for separate temperature control devices.
3Ease of manufacture
If interlocking tab and tab blank connections are used, then raft assembly is simplified and gaps are minimized, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The interlocking tabs and tab blanks are designed with optimized local geometries that provide sufficient engagement strength while accommodating normal manufacturing tolerances. The connection features are strategically positioned and dimensioned to ensure proper alignment and secure joining without requiring excessive precision, balancing ease of assembly with manufacturability.
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 system significantly reduces algal growth, optimizes root temperature, and enhances plant growth efficiency, allowing for year-round high-volume production in various climates with reduced water and land usage, while minimizing crop losses and operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
thermal chimneys that are designed to improve thermal transfer between the pond and air layer just above the pond for the growing plants
Implementation Method 2
thermal chimneys can be points of transfer of cool gas bubbles from the pond, upwards and to the plant bodies
Implementation Method 3
such rafts can be designed and manufactured to completely cover the top surface of a DWC tank (or 'pond'). This feature can substantially decrease the ability of light to penetrate into the pond, and with the decreased light available, algal growth can be substantially decreased
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a hydroponic growing system include raft segments that can be reversibly attached together to form a raft. Rafts can have one or more plant holes to support a plant body, and one or more thermal chimneys to provide for gas transport from underneath the raft to the upper surface, to control temperature and humidity of the plant. Additional embodiments include wireless sensors that may or may not be part of a raft, and a growing environment control system that can receive data from one or more sensors of environmental conditions of a plant and in other embodiments, can detect discrepancies between the actual environmental conditions and desired conditions. In still further embodiments, a growing environment control system can automatically adjust an actuator to return an environmental condition to a desired state.