Ultrasonic Transducer for Algae Control via Resonance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for controlling algae in bodies of water are inefficient, as they either require difficult-to-manage nutrient control or the use of chemicals that can harm other aquatic life.
Innovation Solution
An ultrasonic transducer system that emits targeted ultrasonic waves at frequencies lethal to certain types of algae, preventing their growth and colonization, while being powered by a self-sustaining unit that includes a solar panel and battery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If chemicals are used to control algae growth, then algae control effectiveness is improved, but harm to other aquatic life increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces chemical control methods with a mechanical/physical system using ultrasonic transducers that emit acoustic waves to control algae growth. The transducer assembly converts electrical energy to acoustic energy, creating mechanical vibrations that disrupt algae cellular structures and prevent growth without introducing harmful chemicals into the water ecosystem.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical parameters of the water environment by introducing specific frequency acoustic waves. The transducer operates at frequencies that resonate with algae cellular structures, causing internal damage and growth inhibition. This parameter-based approach (frequency and acoustic pressure) selectively affects algae while leaving other aquatic life unharmed.
2Productivity
If nutrient supply is controlled to limit algae growth, then algae proliferation is reduced, but watershed management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the algae control function from the complex watershed management system and places it directly at the site of algae growth. Instead of managing nutrients throughout the entire watershed, the ultrasonic transducer system is deployed locally in the water body where algae are present, creating a targeted and simplified control mechanism that operates independently of upstream nutrient management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service algae control within the water body through automated ultrasonic emission. The transducer assembly operates autonomously to create acoustic fields that continuously inhibit algae growth, eliminating the need for manual watershed management interventions and complex coordination of nutrient control measures across multiple jurisdictions.
3Productivity
If ultrasonic waves are emitted at high power to kill algae, then algae control effectiveness is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by using pulsed ultrasonic emission rather than continuous high-power output. The transducer assembly emits acoustic waves in controlled pulses at specific frequencies, allowing the system to achieve effective algae control through repeated low-power cycles rather than sustained high-power operation. This reduces overall energy consumption while maintaining biocidal effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses mechanical vibration at resonant frequencies to maximize the effect of each unit of energy expended. The ultrasonic transducer generates vibrations that match the natural resonant frequencies of algae cellular structures, causing amplified internal stresses and damage. This resonance-based approach achieves high effectiveness at lower power levels compared to non-resonant methods.
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 effectively controls algae growth by causing internal structural resonance in the organisms, thereby killing them or preventing them from floating to obtain sunlight, while being environmentally friendly and energy-efficient.
Implementation Method 1
The transducer includes a piezoelectric crystal and at least one radiating block
Implementation Method 2
The transducer unit emits ultrasonic waves at targeted frequencies that are lethal to certain types of algae
Implementation Method 3
The ultrasonic waves are emitted at frequencies that cause internal critical structural resonance within the organisms to be controlled, thereby killing the organisms
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for controlling bio-organisms in bodies of water. The algae control system includes a power unit and a transducer unit that radiates in multiple directions. The transducer unit includes a variable power driver and a transducer subassembly. The power from the driver varies to maintain a maximum, constant transducer sonic output over its bandwidth. The transducer assembly includes at least one transducer that includes a pair of blocks with at least one piezoelectric element therebetween. One embodiment has a single, disc-shaped element adhesively secured between said blocks. The transducer is excited by applying power to the pair of blocks. Another embodiment has at least one ring-shaped elements compressed between the two blocks by way of a fastener. The transducer is excited by applying power, in one embodiment, between the blocks and a conductor between a pair of ring-shaped elements, or in another embodiment, between the pair of blocks.