Automated Feed Distribution Device for Stacked Shrimp Tanks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing feed distribution systems in commercial shrimp production facilities lack automation and precise metering, leading to inefficiencies and inconsistencies in feed delivery, particularly in stacked tank configurations.
Innovation Solution
A distribution device featuring an elongated support surface with a movable shuttle, a hopper, a spreader, and a metering system, controlled by a processor, which allows for automated and metered distribution of feed along an elongated tank, with the option to distribute other materials, utilizing a beam structure with rollers and drive wheels for movement and a load cell for weight measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual feed distribution is used in stacked tank configurations, then operational simplicity is maintained, but automation and precise metering are lost leading to inefficiencies and inconsistencies
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution device is segmented into modular components including a hopper for feed storage, a metering mechanism for precise dosage control, a distribution mechanism for even spread, and a movable platform for tank-to-tank navigation. Each module performs a specific function, allowing the system to achieve automation while maintaining manageable complexity through functional decomposition.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution device is designed as a universal system that can serve multiple tanks in a stacked configuration. The movable platform with rollers and drive wheels enables the same device to service multiple tanks sequentially, while the metering and distribution mechanisms provide consistent performance across all tanks, achieving automation without requiring a separate system for each tank.
2Manufacturing precision
If feed is distributed without precise metering, then distribution speed is maintained, but feed delivery consistency and precision are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The metering mechanism performs preliminary measurement and dosing of feed before distribution. By pre-measuring the required feed amount based on tank specifications and feed requirements, the system ensures precise delivery control while the distribution mechanism then rapidly dispenses the pre-measured feed, maintaining both precision and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback through the metering mechanism that monitors and controls the amount of feed delivered. This feedback loop ensures that the precise feed quantity is maintained during distribution, allowing the system to adjust delivery rates while maintaining consistency, thereby achieving both precision and efficient distribution speed.
3Area of stationary object
If stacked tank configuration is used to optimize space, then space efficiency is improved, but access for feed distribution becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution device transitions from a static to a dynamic configuration with a movable platform that can be positioned over different tanks in the stacked arrangement. The platform incorporates rollers that engage with the tank structure and a drive wheel mechanism that enables controlled movement between tanks, providing easy access to each tank while maintaining the space-efficient stacked configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable platform acts as an intermediary between the operator and the stacked tanks. It provides a stable working surface positioned over the tank opening, allowing feed distribution to occur at the appropriate height and location without requiring direct access to each tank level, thereby maintaining accessibility while preserving the compact stacked arrangement.
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
Enables efficient, automated, and precisely controlled distribution of feed over elongated tanks or areas, optimizing space usage and allowing for real-time monitoring and coordination of feed delivery, suitable for continuous operation or scheduled distribution.
Implementation Method 1
a load cell positioned within the frame and configured to measure a weight of the hopper
Implementation Method 2
A drive wheel is coupled to the frame and configured to engage the beam wherein rotation of the drive wheel urges the frame to move along the beam
Data Source
AI summary
A distribution device automates and meters distribution of feed in a commercial shrimp production facility utilizing a stacked shallow tank configuration. The device includes an elongated support surface positioned over and extending along an elongated tank having an open top. A shuttle moves along the support surface to move along a length of the tank. A hopper to hold feed is coupled to the shuttle. A spreader is in environmental communication with the hopper to distribute feed from the hopper and a meter is operationally coupled between the hopper and the spreader for controlling an amount of the feed delivered to and distributed by the spreader.