Modular Aquatic Tank With Removable Baffle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional aquatic system tanks for fish breeding are complex and costly due to the use of separate tanks and inserts, which increases setup and operational expenses.
Innovation Solution
A modular tank assembly with a removable tank baffle and filters that can be fluidly coupled to create customizable aquatic environments within a single tank, reducing complexity and costs by allowing for adjustable compartments and fluid flow management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate tanks and inserts are used for fish breeding, then breeding functionality is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple breeding functions (spawning, egg incubation, fry rearing) into a single integrated tank system. The tank includes a main chamber for adults, a spawning chamber with removable baffle, and an overflow channel system that eliminates the need for separate breeding tanks and inserts, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining breeding versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The tank system is designed to perform multiple breeding functions simultaneously within one unit. The removable baffle can be positioned to create different compartment configurations for various breeding stages, and the overflow channel system serves both as a water exchange mechanism and a physical separator, providing universal functionality across different breeding scenarios
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate tanks and inserts are used for fish breeding, then breeding functionality is achieved, but equipment cost and labor cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple breeding functions into one tank system, the patent reduces the total number of separate equipment pieces needed, lowering both equipment purchase costs and assembly labor. The integrated design eliminates the need to manage multiple separate tanks and inserts, reducing operational complexity and associated labor costs
3Device complexity
If a single tank with integrated sections is used, then device complexity and cost are reduced, but hydraulic performance and fluid flow management become more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs hydraulic principles through the overflow channel system that uses water flow itself to achieve compartment separation and egg/fry protection. The channel geometry and baffle positioning create natural flow patterns that direct water through specific pathways, eliminating the need for complex mechanical pumps or valves to manage fluid flow between sections
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 modular design simplifies setup, reduces costs, and enhances breeding efficiency by providing a customizable aquatic environment that improves hydraulic performance and fish breeding outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one channel is configured to be fluidly coupled to the outlet channel when the removable tank baffle is positioned in the main housing. Further, in some embodiments, the plurality of baffle apertures are configured to be fluidly coupled to the outlet volume
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention provide a tank assembly with a main housing enclosing an inner volume, and an outlet section positioned extending from one end of the main housing that includes a front cavity with an outlet volume and an adjacent outlet channel. Some embodiments include at least one removable filter configured to be inserted at least partially into main housing forming at least a filtered volume and a fluidly coupled main volume. Some embodiments include a removable tank baffle including at least one central channel and a plurality of baffle apertures. In some embodiments, the central channel is configured to be fluidly coupled to the outlet channel when the removable tank baffle is positioned in the main housing. Further, the plurality of baffle apertures are configured to be fluidly coupled to the outlet volume when the removable tank baffle is positioned in the main housing.