Submersible Oxygenation Assembly with Bubble Generator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing oxygenation systems for aquaculture face challenges in efficiently dissolving gaseous oxygen into water and dispersing highly oxygenated water throughout larger volumes with lower bulk oxygen concentrations.
Innovation Solution
The oxygenation assembly includes a submersible, pressurized mass transfer vessel that pumps water and injects oxygen, coupled with a bubble generator and an aeration system to create an upwelling, effectively increasing oxygen dissolution and dispersion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If gaseous oxygen is introduced into water using conventional aeration methods, then oxygen transfer occurs, but the dissolution efficiency is low and energy consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies pneumatic principles by introducing pressurized gas (oxygen or air) directly into the water stream through a gas injection system. The pressurized gas forms bubbles that rise through the water column, creating an upwelling effect that enhances oxygen transfer efficiency while reducing the energy required compared to conventional mechanical aeration methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the pressure parameter of the gas phase by using pressurized oxygen or air injection. By increasing the gas pressure before introduction into water, the system achieves higher oxygen dissolution efficiency and creates a more effective upwelling current, thereby improving productivity while managing energy consumption
2Quantity of substance
If oxygenated water is produced in a localized area, then high oxygen concentration is achieved, but dispersion throughout larger volumes is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the oxygen injection process into multiple injection points along the water flow path. By distributing gas injection at various locations, the system produces multiple zones of high oxygen concentration that collectively cover a larger water volume, addressing both localized concentration and overall distribution
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension by creating an upwelling current that moves water upward through the pond or reservoir. This vertical movement, combined with horizontal dispersion, enables oxygenated water to distribute throughout a three-dimensional volume rather than remaining confined to a localized area
3Productivity
If conventional aeration systems are used, then oxygen transfer occurs, but the system complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the gas injection function from complex mechanical aeration systems and implements it through a simpler pressurized gas delivery system. By removing unnecessary mechanical components and focusing on direct gas injection with upwelling utilization, the system maintains high oxygenation capability while reducing structural complexity and maintenance requirements
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 solution efficiently raises the dissolved oxygen concentration of water and disperses it throughout a larger volume, achieving higher oxygenation levels with lower energy expenditure.
Implementation Method 1
A submersible, pressurized mass transfer vessel that pumps water and injects oxygen
Implementation Method 2
promote dissolving of oxygen therewithin when so submerged
Implementation Method 3
coupled with a bubble generator and an aeration system to create an upwelling
Implementation Method 4
create an upwelling, effectively increasing oxygen dissolution and dispersion
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided an oxygenation assembly submersible within a body of water. The oxygenation assembly includes a mass transfer vessel configured to receive water and promote dissolving of oxygen therewithin at least in part using pressure from the body of water. The vessel is elongate and may have a fixed diameter. The oxygenation assembly includes a bubble generator downstream of the vessel and which functions as a throttling device. The bubble generator is configured to dissipate pressure within the vessel in a manner that promotes breaking up of remaining undissolved gaseous bubbles. The oxygenation assembly may include an aeration system coupled to and in this example in line with the vessel. The aeration system disperses water of elevated dissolved oxygen content throughout a larger volume of water having a lower bulk dissolved oxygen concentration.