Modular Methanisation Facility for Solid Organic Matter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methanization systems for organic agricultural waste are costly, require large infrastructure, and face challenges with substrate deterioration and inefficient biogas production due to the need for large concrete pits or cells, which are expensive and difficult to manage.
Innovation Solution
A modular and movable digester system with hermetically sealed, thermally insulated containers equipped with sensors and flexible connectors, allowing for flexible deployment and connection of multiple modules for efficient fermentation and gas recovery, enabling time-shifted filling and unloading of substrates and digestate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If large concrete pits or cells are used for methanization, then the fermentation volume is sufficient, but the construction cost and infrastructure requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the fermentation system into multiple modular containers (10, 11, 12, 13) that can be independently manufactured and transported, then assembled together to form the complete methanization facility. Each container is a self-contained unit with standardized dimensions and connection interfaces, eliminating the need for expensive custom concrete construction while providing sufficient total fermentation volume.
2Volume of stationary object
If large concrete pits are used, then the fermentation capacity is adequate, but the infrastructure complexity and permitting requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the fermentation system into standardized modular containers, the patent simplifies infrastructure requirements. Each module is a complete, self-contained unit that can be deployed on various surfaces without requiring complex concrete foundations or extensive civil works, thereby reducing permitting complexity and infrastructure overhead.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular container system provides dynamic flexibility in deployment and configuration. Containers can be easily assembled, disassembled, relocated, and reconfigured based on operational needs, unlike fixed concrete structures that are difficult to modify. This dynamic approach reduces infrastructure complexity while maintaining adequate fermentation capacity.
3Volume of stationary object
If substrates are stored for extended periods before filling, then the fermentation capacity is prepared, but substrate deterioration occurs and biogas production potential is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary preparation of substrates in controlled conditions before they are loaded into the modular containers. The standardized loading interfaces and pre-configured container systems allow for efficient, timely substrate incorporation, minimizing storage time and preventing deterioration while ensuring the fermentation capacity is ready to receive and process the substrates effectively.
4Adaptability or versatility
If modular containers are used instead of concrete pits, then deployment flexibility and cost are improved, but the hermetic sealing and thermal insulation requirements become more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses hermetic sealing challenges by implementing standardized sealing mechanisms at the modular container level. Each container is designed as a sealed unit with integrated gaskets, locking mechanisms, and connection interfaces that ensure气密性 when assembled. This segmented approach allows for quality-controlled sealing in each module rather than attempting to seal large concrete structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular containers utilize composite construction materials that provide both structural integrity and thermal insulation properties. The container walls incorporate insulating materials and sealed joints that maintain hermetic sealing while enabling the flexible, pre-fabricated nature of the modular system, overcoming the limitations of traditional concrete construction.
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
This system reduces costs and infrastructure needs by allowing modular deployment, minimizing substrate deterioration, and optimizing biogas production through efficient fermentation control and flexible operation, enabling continuous biogas valorization and efficient waste management.
Implementation Method 1
a hermetic and thermally insulated receptacle
Implementation Method 2
said receptacle comprising a plurality of sensors, selected from the group comprising pressure sensors, temperature sensors and liquid level sensors
Implementation Method 3
temperature sensors
Implementation Method 4
liquid level sensors
Implementation Method 5
said receptacle comprises a percolat diffusion circuit, comprising a percolated inlet connector, a plurality of percolat diffusers arranged in the upper part of the receptacle, in fluid communication with said percolat input connector
Implementation Method 6
Said receptacle comprises a heat transfer fluid heating circuit, comprising external input and outlet connectors of the heat transfer fluid, and a coil extending between these two connectors, inside said receptacle
Implementation Method 7
The anaerobic fermentation process of organic materials (also known as the substrates), allowing a member of producing a biogas rich in methane
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4a
Figure 4b~6
AI summary
This methanisation facility for organic matter such as waste of agricultural origin comprises: - a plurality of digester modules (C1,...C5) and of receiving stations (S1,...S5), comprising respective connectors able to be coupled up at the beginning of the fermentation reaction, and to be uncoupled at the end of the reaction, - a circuit for recovering the fermentation gases (G), connected, on the one hand, to the connectors for recovering the gases of the receiving stations (S1,...S5), and, on the other hand, to at least one treatment unit (3, 5, 7), and - circuits for supplying and collecting the fluids and data and electric currents connecting the receiving stations. This facility can be set up above ground, using prefabricated modules, the on-site assembly of which is simple and rapid.