Multi-Level Tank Substrate Structure for Crustacean Molting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing crustacean farming methods face challenges such as limited density, high mortality during molting, and the need for a conducive habitat that enhances health and well-being, while also supporting growth and survival.
Innovation Solution
A substrate structure for crustacean tanks featuring parallel support gratings with interspacing units forming floors, providing support and shelter, mimicking natural environments, and facilitating molting, with features like adjustable hole sizes and materials for stability and water flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional tank farming methods are used, then the setup is simple, but the crustacean density is limited and mortality during molting is high
Solution Approach 1:
The tank is divided into multiple levels using support gratings at different heights, creating separate floors that allow higher crustacean density while providing individual molting spaces. Each grating level acts as an independent zone where crustaceans can molt without interfering with others, reducing mortality while increasing overall capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-level tank to a multi-level three-dimensional structure with support gratings arranged vertically at different heights. This vertical dimensionality allows more crustaceans to be housed in the same tank volume while providing separate molting zones that reduce stress and mortality during the molting process
2Reliability
If more support structures are added to facilitate molting, then molting success improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The substrate structure is segmented into multiple identical support gratings that can be vertically stacked. Each grating is a simple, standardized component with uniform spacing, making the overall structure easy to assemble and maintain while providing multiple molting zones that improve success rates
Solution Approach 2:
The support gratings serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide structural support for the substrate, create vertical spacing for different crustacean sizes, facilitate water flow throughout the tank, and offer attachment surfaces for algae and biofilm. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, maintaining simplicity while improving molting success
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a substrate structure (1) for a tank (12) for crustaceans, wherein the substrate structure comprises at least two support gratings (2) arranged parallel to each other. The substrate structure further comprises at least two interspacing units (3) arranged between the two support gratings for spacing the two support gratings at a distance of at least 20 mm, such that at least two floors (4) are formed, which provide support for the crustaceans. Further disclosed are a tank entity (11) comprising the substrate structure and use of the substrate structure for holding crustaceans.