Modular Refrigeration Apparatus for Livewell Temperature Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional livewell designs lack effective temperature management systems that are efficient, cost-effective, adaptable, and precise enough to preserve the health of fish and other aquatic animals in temporary storage.
Innovation Solution
A modular apparatus comprising a self-contained fluid line, compressor, expansion valve, condenser, and controller, which regulates the livewell temperature using a temperature probe to achieve a desired temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional temperature management means (ice, chemicals, thermoelectric means) are used in livewells, then temperature regulation is achieved, but the system becomes large, expensive, and imprecise
Solution Approach 1:
The refrigeration system is divided into modular components (compressor, condenser, evaporator, expansion device) that can be independently selected and configured for different livewell sizes and applications, allowing precise temperature control without requiring a monolithic complex system
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows adjustment of temperature setpoints and operational parameters to match specific aquatic species requirements, achieving precise temperature regulation while maintaining system simplicity through programmable control
2Reliability
If conventional temperature management means are used in livewells, then temperature regulation is achieved, but the system becomes costly and impractical for fishers
Solution Approach 1:
The refrigeration system is designed to serve multiple functions: cooling livewell water, providing ice for bait preservation, and potentially cooling other onboard equipment, thereby reducing overall system cost while maintaining reliable temperature control for fishery applications
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automatic defrost cycles, temperature monitoring, and fault detection that operate without manual intervention, ensuring reliable temperature regulation while reducing operational costs and maintenance requirements
3Measurement precision
If conventional temperature management means are used in livewells, then some temperature control is achieved, but precision required for certain fish species is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses temperature sensors and controllers that continuously monitor livewell temperature and adjust compressor operation accordingly, achieving precise temperature control for sensitive species while minimizing energy consumption through adaptive control rather than continuous full-power operation
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 efficiently and precisely manages livewell temperature, preserving the health of aquatic animals by maintaining optimal conditions, reducing agitation and contamination, and preventing fish from becoming 'green eyed' or dying.
Implementation Method 1
a self-contained fluid line, a compressor, an expansion valve, and a condenser
Implementation Method 2
a self-contained fluid line, a compressor, an expansion valve, and a condenser
Implementation Method 3
a self-contained fluid line, a compressor, an expansion valve, and a condenser
Data Source
AI summary
A modular apparatus and system for managing the temperature of a livewell or other container housing water, and an associated method for installing the same. The system featuring a self-contained fluid line in communication with a first fluid line, which is in fluid communication with the livewell. The modular apparatus generally featuring the system and an enclosure. The enclosure can be located adjacent the livewell and detachably coupled to a fishing vessel. The modular apparatus and system can further comprise a condenser, which can be a forced air coil unit, a liquid-cooled unit, or a cold plate heat sink unit.