Multipurpose Pontoon Platform for Selective, Low-Impact Fish Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current commercial fishing gear and practices have detrimental effects on aquatic ecosystems, including depletion of commercial stocks, loss of genetic diversity, and habitat degradation, necessitating the need for selective fish capture systems that are adaptable, portable, and versatile.
Innovation Solution
A multipurpose selective fish capture system utilizing an interconverting pontoon platform that can convert between a fish capture system and an oil spill response system, featuring a pair of opposing pontoons, a support frame, a rail assembly, a deck, and retractable gates, along with various net configurations for fish containment and guidance, and the ability to integrate renewable energy generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional commercial fishing gear is used, then fish capture efficiency is improved, but aquatic ecosystem health deteriorates due to non-selective capture
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the capture process into separate functional zones: a guidance net section that directs fish toward the containment enclosure, and a containment enclosure that selectively holds target species while allowing non-target species to escape through selective mesh openings or designated release pathways
Solution Approach 2:
The netting within the containment enclosure features varying mesh sizes and configurations in different local areas - finer mesh in certain zones to retain smaller target fish while coarser mesh in other zones allows non-target species to pass through, creating spatially differentiated capture characteristics
2Object-affected harmful factors
If pound net traps are used for selective harvesting, then non-target species protection is improved, but portability and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the guidance net component from the containment enclosure, allowing the containment enclosure to be detached and relocated independently. The guidance net can be configured in different arrangements (single-sided or double-sided) and the enclosure can be positioned at various distances from shore, providing operational flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic reconfiguration of the guidance net and containment enclosure relative positions, and the ability to adjust net depth and configuration based on water conditions, fish species target, and operational requirements, transforming a static structure into an adaptable system
3Object-affected harmful factors
If fixed pound net structures are installed, then fish capture selectivity is improved, but environmental impact and construction cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the traditional fixed pound net into separable modular components that can be deployed without permanent structures. The guidance net and containment enclosure can be installed using temporary anchors or floating mechanisms, eliminating the need for permanent pilings or concrete foundations that disrupt habitats
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs temporary, removable anchoring mechanisms and floating supports instead of permanent fixed structures. The guidance net and containment enclosure can be quickly deployed and removed without leaving lasting environmental impact, using inexpensive temporary fixtures rather than expensive permanent installations
4Productivity
If traditional fishing practices are used, then fishing industry employment is maintained, but sustainability goals deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system can be operated by diverse users including commercial fishermen, recreational anglers, and research institutions. It supports multiple fishing strategies (target species capture, conservation monitoring, ecological research) and can be adapted to different fish species and water environments, making it a universally applicable tool for sustainable fisheries management
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 allows for selective fish capture with minimal environmental impact, adaptability to different water conditions, and versatility in application, including oil spill response, while minimizing ecological disruption and enabling efficient energy generation.
Implementation Method 1
a pair of opposing pontoon floats arranged in parallel and having an upper surface and a lower surface, the upper surface of each float configured to support a mounting riser
Implementation Method 2
a rail assembly attached to the lower surface of the support frame, the rail assembly comprising a pair of curtain track I beams or C channels that each support a curtain track rail assembly containing a plurality of curtain track roller hooks
Data Source
AI summary
A multipurpose portable or transportable selective fish capture system and no touch transport system is described that comprises an interconverting pontoon platform which can be adapted to include a solar and/or hydro electrical energy collection, conversion, storage and distribution system and to convert between a selective fish capture system and no touch fish transport system and an for emergency response for search and rescue or oil spill response support and oil spill collection and oil transport system.