Photobioreactor Profile for Algae Light Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for producing algae are energy-intensive, have low productivity, and face challenges in scaling due to suboptimal production parameters, leading to inefficiencies in light distribution and temperature control, which affects the growth and yield of phototrophic microorganisms like algae.
Innovation Solution
A tubular photobioreactor design with a profile comprising elongated elements and multiple planes for optimal light distribution, combined with a hollow cavity for fluid flow to manage temperature, and fastening means to secure reactor tubes, allowing for efficient light emission and temperature control in a compact, scalable format.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional production systems are used, then large areas are required for algae production, but this causes difficulties in up- or down-scaling of production capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The photobioreactor system is divided into multiple modular units, each comprising reactor tubes arranged in bundles with specific geometric configurations. These modules can be independently assembled or disassembled, enabling flexible scaling of production capacity without requiring large continuous areas. The segmentation allows the system to be adapted to different space constraints while maintaining efficient light distribution.
2Use of energy by stationary object
If conventional production systems are used, then the systems are energy-intensive, but this makes production of algae uneconomical
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from conventional two-dimensional surface-based algae production to a three-dimensional tubular reactor configuration. Multiple reactor tubes are arranged in vertical and horizontal bundles,充分利用ing spatial volume. This dimensional change allows significantly higher productivity per unit area while maintaining efficient light penetration through the tube walls, reducing the energy input required per unit of algae produced.
Solution Approach 2:
The photobioreactor system enables continuous culture of algae through recirculating fluid flow through the reactor tubes. This continuous operation maximizes the utilization of light energy and maintains optimal growth conditions throughout the culture volume, thereby increasing productivity while reducing the total energy consumption compared to batch systems that require repeated setup and teardown.
3Productivity
If conventional production systems are used, then there is low productivity and low yields, but this is due to suboptimal production process parameters including light distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The reactor tube bundles are configured with specific geometric arrangements and spacing to optimize local light distribution characteristics. The diameter, length, and spacing of individual tubes are optimized to ensure uniform light penetration to the algae culture at each location. This local optimization of light quality and intensity throughout the reactor volume maximizes photosynthetic efficiency and overall productivity.
4Productivity
If conventional production systems are used, then there is low productivity and low yields, but this is due to suboptimal production process parameters including temperature control
Solution Approach 1:
The reactor tube structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it contains the algae culture, allows light penetration for photosynthesis, and acts as a heat exchange conduit for temperature control. The tubular design enables integration of heating or cooling systems within or around the tubes, providing precise temperature regulation throughout the culture volume, which is critical for maintaining optimal productivity.
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 design enhances the cost-efficiency of algae production by ensuring adequate light distribution and temperature control, improving productivity and scalability while reducing the footprint of the production system.
Implementation Method 1
the hollow cavity (5) is adapted to hold a fluid, such as water or the like
Implementation Method 2
at least one light source (4) is placed on at least one of the 3 planes (13) of the elongated element (2)
Implementation Method 3
Algae are photogenic microorganisms and grow by consuming carbon dioxide (CO2) using the mechanism described as photosynthesis
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a profile comprising an elongated element extending in a longitudinal direction along a centre line and at least 3 planes extending in the longitudinal direction of the elongated element and surrounding the centre line of the elongated element, wherein at least one light source is placed on at least one of the 3 planes of the elongated element.