KR102502935B1 - Abalone farming device and method - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to an improved apparatus and method for abalone farming in both coastal and marine environments, comprising a plurality of prefabricated base portions and an elongated base comprising vertical walls parallel to the longitudinal axis of the elongated base portion. A mold overturning tank comprising a plurality of channels connected to a water discharger for conveying a flow of water, and each channel and drain, wherein the plurality of tanks are arranged in an array. An exterior submersible container comprising an inner surface for accommodating an abalone, an exterior comprising an inner surface for accommodating an abalone, configured to allow water to flow through the exterior when the container (vessel) is submerged but not to pass the abalone one or more apertures, and one or more feed distributors, each distributor including a receptacle for an abalone feed and a mouth portion configured to receive at a respective feed port.

Description

Abalone farming device and method

The present invention relates to an abalone farming apparatus and method. In particular, the present invention relates to improvements in apparatus and methods for farming abalone in both on-shore and off-shore (sea) environments.

As the global demand for abalone continues to increase, abalone is becoming a very valuable food resource. To meet this continuing demand, abalone farms have been set up to supplement the dwindling supply of wild abalone. Most abalone farms are based only on land, although some end-growth marine farms currently exist.

In existing abalone farms, after spawning, abalone larvae typically settle on the surface of plastic plates on which algae have grown. Next, the plates are removed from the rack and incubated in the tank for about 5-6 months or until they grow to about 10 mm in size. To balance algae growth and abalone growth on the plate, factors such as exposure to sunlight are carefully controlled. The young abalone are then transferred to so-called "slab tanks" where they are grown in shallow tanks with a constant flow of high-quality sea water. Abalone are fed specially formulated feed during several stages of production, and during the first 5-7 months in slab tanks, they grow from about 10 mm to about 25 mm in size. Finally, about 3 years after spawning, the abalone that have grown to about 90 mm in diameter are ready to be sold on the market and taken out of the slab tank for processing.

Existing abalone farms require large-scale infrastructure, such as buildings, tanks, and pumping systems, and are therefore quite expensive to operate. In fact, the cost of farming around 200 tonnes of abalone in the region is estimated to be A$1 million at current electricity rates. Moreover, it takes about three years to grow abalone to a marketable size, and now a large tank infrastructure is required for almost all of that time. As such, existing abalone farms typically face a production limit of about 200 tonnes per year, making it difficult to meet the growing demand for abalone worldwide.

Expanding traditional abalone farms to meet this demand is not without its challenges. For example, constructing the necessary large concrete tanks, and their associated water supply and drainage systems, is costly and time consuming, and factors such as uneven or unstable ground, existing buildings, or infrastructure (which may impede concrete pouring) The structure is often complicated by Additionally, water supply and drainage systems can be complex to operate and prone to malfunctions.

Sea farms that complete abalone farming are known. In these farms, once the abalone have grown to a certain size (typically about 50 mm) or more on shore, a sea aquaculture facility that houses them, for example, nets suspended from floats (typically, the nets are suspended in circular floats). hanging) to transfer the abalone. A number of structures are placed within the nets, which provide shelter for the abalone and a surface on which the abalone can (and cannot) live on top of the net.

Although these marine farms are less dependent on infrastructure than the aforementioned coastal farms, they still have many problems. For example, abalone feed is spread into an enclosure, falls through the water column and settles to the surface of the shelter, where the abalone can eat. However, as is well known, a significant portion of the feed simply falls through the net and cannot access the abalone, which increases production costs or reduces the growth rate of abalone. Momentum in the water column may also wash away feed that has settled in hiding places before the abalone can feed. Finally, there is always the risk that predators can pass through the nets and consume the abalone in culture.

In addition, marine abalone farms typically must be reasonably and securely anchored to the seabed to minimize the risk of damage during storms or rough waves. Since the position of the farm is fixed in the water, it can cause environmental problems such as reducing the amount of sunlight received on the seabed below the farm or contaminating the area around the farm with inedible feed for abalone.

Sea farms using containers containing specially designed submersible abalone are known. However, feeding and regular inspection of abalone in these containers is difficult and often requires divers and/or other special equipment.

An object of the present invention is to improve the abalone farming apparatus and method so that the productivity of abalone farming can be increased to meet the growing demand for abalone worldwide.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an abalone farming apparatus and method that can further simplify the assembly process and reduce the number of various components required to construct a tank.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an abalone farming device and method that can help prevent waste of feed and can deliver feed more consistently.

In a first aspect, the present invention provides a tank for abalone farming. The tank includes an elongated base, which is arranged substantially parallel to its longitudinal axis and includes upright walls defining a channel therebetween for receiving the flow of water. The elongated base includes a plurality of prefabricated base parts sealedly connected together.

As noted, constructing a tank for abalone farming (eg, a slab tank) with prefabricated base parts can significantly simplify the construction process compared to prior art processes. These modular tanks do not require much preparation traditionally associated with (eg) pouring large amounts of concrete, and even around existing infrastructure (eg warehouses and other slab tanks), the prefabricated base can be installed on-site using a crane or the like. can be transported up to Moreover, block molded parts may be manufactured off-site and in a more controlled environment than can be achieved on site, and therefore must be of significantly higher and consistent quality.

In some embodiments, the plurality of buildable base portions may be substantially identical to each other in order to further simplify the assembly process and reduce the number of different components required to construct the tank.

In a second aspect, the present invention provides a prefabricated base part used in the tank of the first aspect of the present invention.

In a third aspect, the invention provides a tank system comprising a plurality of tanks according to the first aspect of the invention, wherein the plurality of tanks are arranged in an array.

In some embodiments of the third aspect, the tank system is arranged in a row along the longitudinal axis of the elongate base, with the tip of one tank positioned adjacent to the tip of the other tank (ie, in a “head-to-head configuration”). It may include two tanks arranged. The tank system may also include a central tank which may be disposed and connected between the elongate bases of adjacent ends of the tank and which may be selectively operated to direct the flow of water into the channels of the tank or discharge the water conveyed to the ends of the tank channels. Can include gutters. In such embodiments, the amount of infrastructure (eg, water piping and pumping equipment) required to operate the tank system can be minimized, thereby reducing the complexity and cost (both of operation and installation) of the tank system. .

In some embodiments, the tank system may further include an elevating platform on top of the central trough that may receive a drip container thereon, in some embodiments. The drip tray may be operated to deliver a water surge to one or more channels to clean the channel(s) in a manner similar to how waves do in the natural environment of capsize.

In some embodiments, the drip tray can slide along rails provided on the elevating platform to align with one or more selected channels of the tank system. In some embodiments, the drip tray can be pivoted towards either tank so that a water surge can be delivered to the selected channel(s). In this way, the drip tray can be easily moved and pivoted to progressively (manually or automatically) clean all channels of the tank system.

The tank may, in some embodiments, further include an abalone feeding device that moves along the length of each channel and spreads feed into the channel. The feeding device can slide, for example, along a rail provided on an upright wall.

The tank may, in some embodiments, further include dual water sources. As is well known, failure of a water source (even for a short period of time) can lead to mass mortality of abalone.

In some aspects of the present invention, there is provided a tank or tank system for abalone farming comprising an elongated base having upright walls defining channels therebetween to receive a flow of water, the tank or tank system comprising:

a plurality of prefabricated base parts sealedly connected together;

a central trough disposed and sealedly connected between the tips of adjacent elongated bases and selectively operable to direct water flow into each channel or discharged water from the ends of adjacent elongated bases into each channel;

a liftable platform accommodating thereon a gutter receptacle operable to deliver a water surge into one or more channels;

It further includes any one or more of the abalone feeding devices that move along the length of each channel and spread the feed into the channels.

In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a submersible container containing abalone. The container includes a container wall defining an enclosure for rollover, and the enclosure includes an inner surface thereon to receive rollover. The container also includes one or more holes that allow water to flow through the enclosure when the container is submerged, but cannot pass through the enclosure in case of capsize. The container also includes one or more feeding ports and one or more food dispensers provided on the container wall. Each food dispenser includes an abalone feeding receptacle and a mouth portion received in each feeding port, and one or more food dispensers are independently operable to dispense food contained therein into the enclosure.

Such a container is well suited for use in a sea environment, for example where the container is suspended from a float or line. The natural movement of water causes a flow of water through the container, which provides the abalone living on the inner surface with a constant source of hydrogen peroxide, without all the requirements of shore aquaculture facilities such as slab tanks and constant water pumping.

Furthermore, if the submersible container is provided with a feed dispenser, the period between the overturning inspection of the container and the inspection can advantageously be extended. Farmed abalone should always be inspected regularly, but in such an embodiment the period between inspections may be extended (eg by one month). This is a significant improvement over some existing submersible containers, which either have to be retrieved from the water every week to replenish the abalone feed, or require divers to engage a hose that allows the abalone feed to be pumped from the boat into the container.

In some embodiments, one or more food dispensers may be independently operated to dispense food contained therein into the enclosure at a predetermined time. In some embodiments, for example, a container may include two or more food dispensers, multiple food dispensers dispensing food therein into the enclosure at different times (eg, different predetermined times). This embodiment can help prevent wastage of feed and can advantageously deliver feed more consistently.

In some embodiments, the enclosure may receive a member therein, which member provides an additional inner surface thereon to receive rollover. The number of abalone that can be kept in an enclosure depends on factors including the amount of surface area available, so increasing the internal surface area means more abalone can grow in the container.

In some embodiments, the member may be substantially planar, which aids in removing the abalone since there are no tight corners where the abalone can hide. However, as noted, it is desirable to have as much internal surface area as possible to accommodate overturning. As such, a member larger than the enclosure may be used if the member can be folded and fit into the enclosure. In some embodiments, the member may be folded multiple times to define a number of additional internal surfaces to accommodate overturning. Thus, the number of abalone can be maximized for a given volume, further improving the efficiency of the aquaculture process.

In some embodiments, a container wall may include an inner wall and an outer wall, and a cavity between the walls. The cavity may contain air, water or sand (or combinations thereof), for example to adjust the buoyancy of the container.

In some embodiments, the container may be opened to access the cap in the enclosure. It can be difficult to remove abalone from the surface, and it is even more difficult where the abalone can hide in hard-to-reach recesses. Therefore, anything that can be done to improve access to abalone in containers will help improve the efficiency of the aquaculture process.

In a fifth aspect, the present invention provides a food dispenser for use with the submersible container according to the fourth aspect of the present invention. The food dispenser comprises a container for holding the food of the abalone, a mouse part received in one of the feeding ports of the container, and upon receipt of a signal (e.g., a signal generated at the end of a predetermined time or a signal generated by an external source). Includes a gate that can move from a closed position to an open position. When the gate moves from the closed position to the open position, the food in the container is dispensed into the enclosure.

In a sixth aspect, the present invention provides a method for farming abalone at sea locations. The method comprises placing at least one submersible container according to the fourth aspect of the present invention on a longline anchored to the bottom of the sea; Periodically retrieving each of the one or more submersible containers and inspecting the abalone contained therein (eg, for predators, expected growth, mortality, etc.).

Using an offshore location to farm juvenile abalone frees up an onshore tank infrastructure for subsequent abalone farming, reducing costs associated with long-term use (up to 3 years) of large tank infrastructure and abalone to be farmed. allows for more generation of Additionally, there is no need to actively pump seawater through submersible containers (ie as required in shore slab tanks) due to the natural movement of water around the containers. This significantly reduces the costs (per aquaculture overturn) associated with the operation of the pumping system. Moreover, the containers of the present invention, particularly when maintained in a suspended environment, can greatly reduce predation by keeping abalone clear of bottom predators such as starfish.

In embodiments where the submersible container includes food dispensers, the method may further include replacing any empty food dispensers with full food dispensers.

In some embodiments, one or more submersible containers may be retrieved using a retrieval device that overhangs the side of the boat. The retrieval device may, for example, lift the container out of the water or place the container on the deck of a boat to inspect for capsize contained therein, and then later return the container to the water. In this embodiment, the vessel's personnel can access the capsize without the need for divers.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The present invention has the effect of minimizing the amount of infrastructure required (eg, water piping and pumping equipment), thereby reducing the complexity and cost (both of operation and installation) of the tank system.

In addition, one or more food dispensers of the present invention can be operated independently to dispense food contained therein into an enclosure, making it well suited for use in a marine environment where the container is suspended from a float or longline.

In addition, the present invention has the effect of advantageously extending the period between the overturning inspection and inspection of the container by having the submersible container with the food dispenser.

In addition, the present invention allows the container to include two or more food distributors so that the plurality of food distributors distribute the food contained therein into the enclosure at different predetermined times, thereby helping to prevent waste of feed, and more consistently It is advantageous to be able to deliver feed, and also has the effect of improving access to abalone in containers.

The present invention also provides that the enclosure can accommodate a member therein, which member can provide an additional interior surface thereon to receive abalone to help more abalone grow in the container as the interior surface area increases; By defining a number of additional inner surfaces to receive abalone, the number of abalone can be maximized for a given volume, further improving the efficiency of the aquaculture process.

In addition, the container of the present invention, especially when maintained in a hanging environment, has the effect of greatly increasing the survival rate of abalone by keeping the abalone from touching predators on the bottom such as starfish.

1 is a partially exploded perspective view showing a tank system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
2 is a cross-sectional side view showing a trough for delivering water to or draining water from a channel of a tank according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 is a partially exploded perspective view showing the gutter and tank of Figure 2;
4 is a partially exploded perspective view showing a central trough of the tank system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
5 is a side cross-sectional view showing a central trough of a tank system according to another embodiment of the present invention.
6 is an exploded perspective view showing a tank system according to another embodiment of the present invention.
7 shows an embodiment of a water supply system for use with a tank system according to one embodiment of the present invention.
8 shows an array of tanks according to one embodiment of the tank system of the present invention.
9 is a perspective view showing a submersible container containing abalone according to an embodiment of the present invention.
10 is a perspective view showing a plurality of submersible containers containing abalone in a stacked arrangement according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 11 is a side cross-sectional view showing the submersible container of Fig. 10 with an overturned member thereon housed in an enclosure;
FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing the container and members of FIG. 11, wherein the container is in an open form.
13 shows a member for receiving an abalone thereon according to one embodiment of the present invention.
14 is a perspective view showing a food dispenser used with a submersible container according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which a lid is closed.
Figure 15 shows the food dispenser of Figure 14, but with the lid open.
16 is a perspective view of the food dispenser of FIG. 14 viewed from the other end.
17 is a cross-sectional view showing the food dispenser of FIG. 14;
18 is a cross-sectional view showing the food dispenser of FIG. 14 after being inserted into a submersible container containing abalone according to an embodiment of the present invention.
19 is a side view showing a plurality of submersible containers containing abalone in the sea disposed on a longline according to an embodiment of the present invention.
20 is a partially enlarged view showing the line of FIG. 19;
Fig. 21 is a perspective view showing a boat used to retrieve the submersible container of Fig. 19 for inspection;
22 is a rear view showing the boat lifting device shown in FIG. 21;

The present invention relates to devices and methods that can be used to improve the efficiency of abalone farming both on shore and at sea. Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail.

tanks and tank systems

In one aspect, the present invention provides a tank for abalone farming. The tank includes an elongated base, which is arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the elongated base, and includes upright walls defining a channel therebetween to receive a constant flow of water therethrough (in use). The elongate base includes a plurality of prefabricated base portions sealedly connected together (in some embodiments, the base is defined by a plurality of prefabricated base portions). In another aspect, the present invention provides a tank system comprising a plurality of such tanks, wherein the plurality of tanks are arranged in an array. In another aspect, the present invention provides a prefabricated base for use in these tanks or tank systems.

As described above, abalone farming traditionally involves a slab tank farming phase in which young abalone are grown to a marketable size. Such slab tanks are typically long, shallow concrete tanks about 18 meters long, 2.5 meters wide, and 20 cm deep. To create a suitable aquaculture environment, about 3 liters of fresh seawater per second are pumped through the tank while kept in water to a depth of about 75 mm (sufficient to cover the abalone in the tank).

The tank of the present invention includes an elongated base with upright walls defining channels for receiving the flow of water therebetween. The elongated base can be of any suitable length (eg, about 10 to 30 meters, or about 15 to 25 meters), but, as with traditional slab tanks, a length of about 18 meters is preferred. Tests and experiments have shown that the oxygen concentration in the water flowing through a slab tank containing abalone tends to fall to an ideal level after about 18 m. Thus, a tank having a length of about 18 meters substantially prevents the deoxygenated water from flowing across the abalone at the end of the tank.

An elongated base may contain any number of channels. Typically, the elongated base includes multiple channels to maximize the number of abalone that can be grown in the tank. Each channel may have any suitable width, with the tank having a corresponding width (eg, about 1 to 5 meters, or about 2 to 4 meters). However, as with the channels provided in traditional slab tanks, a channel width of about 2.5 m is preferred. When the elongated base has multiple channels, the channels may have the same or different widths. In a specific embodiment, each of the channels is about 18 m long and about 2.5 m wide.

The upright walls are arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the elongated base and may have any suitable height. For example, in some embodiments, the upright walls may be about 20 cm high, as is the case with traditional slab tanks. Typically, the upright wall extends substantially the entire length of the elongated base, although some underhang or overhang may provide advantages as discussed below. The upstanding wall may have any suitable thickness (ie width) so long as it serves the purposes described herein. If too narrow, the structural integrity of the upright walls may be compromised during construction of the tank or during subsequent operation. If too thick, an excessive amount of material is required to form the walls, may reduce the width of the channel containing the abalone, and unnecessarily increase the overall weight of the elongated base. Upright walls with a width of about 150 mm have been found to be effective.

Any number of prefabricated base sections may be used to form the elongated base (and thus tank) of the present invention. The elongated base may include two or more prefabricated base portions sealedly connected together in a side-to-side manner, for example to provide a wider tank with additional channels. For example, an elongated base may include two or more prefabricated base sections sealed together in series to provide a longer channel or allow the use of shorter prefabricated base sections.

In certain embodiments, the elongated base is a one or two wide prefabricated base section. In certain embodiments, the elongated base is a two length prefabricated base portion. It has been found that this configuration provides a good balance between the size of the tank and the relative ease of construction, as the prefabricated base is sized to be easily transportable and steerable using conventional vehicles and machinery. .

Given the traditional length and width of slab tanks, it may be expedient to provide a prefabricated base with a length of about 9 m in this embodiment. Two of these bases can join to provide a channel about 18 meters long. This prefabricated base part is of a length that can be easily transported from its assembly site to the abalone farm using conventional transportation means. This embodiment ideally has a minimal number of bases, but still provides a balance between factors such as a tank being a useful size, while a prefabricated base can still be transported relatively easily and positioned later on site.

Since the channels of a traditional slab tank are about 2.5 m wide, the prefabricated base can contain up to four channels and can still be transported using existing vehicles and machinery. However, in some circumstances a prefabricated base portion with two wide channels may be desirable, since they may be simpler to handle. The prefabricated base with two channels has a width of about 6 m, which is a size that can be transported using conventional transport, as described above. The prefabricated base with four channels has a width of (only) about 11 m, which is large enough to be transported using conventional vehicles, but is heavier and more difficult to handle, and therefore less suitable for some applications.

The bottom of the channel may be substantially smooth or may include raised members on which the overturning tends to self-locate. These raised members provide shelter for the abalone and simulate a more natural living environment. The raised members can be of any shape and orientation, but extend substantially parallel to the length of the channel (i.e., substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the elongated base), and the substantially linear raised members can provide an overturn to the tank. When it is time to collect, it can be easy to remove the abalone.

The prefabricated base portion may be made of any suitable material. In some embodiments, the prefabricated base is made of concrete. As is well known, concrete is a particularly suitable material for such applications due to its strength, durability, UV-light resistance and relatively low cost. Other suitable materials include suitably strong and durable plastics (eg, molded plastics).

In those embodiments in which the prefabricated base is made of concrete, the concrete must be of a thickness that imparts sufficient strength to the base to withstand the weight of lifting and subsequent overturning during construction and assembly of the tank or tank system and the water flowing through the channels. do. The bottom of the base portion may be, for example, 100 mm or more thick, 130 mm or more thick, or 150 mm or more thick, depending on factors such as the relative size of the base portion and the resulting tank, and the amount of overturn to grow in the tank. Similarly, upstanding walls (and other prefabricated components described herein) should have a thickness commensurate with their end use.

To simplify the structure of the tank or tank system, a number of the prefabricated base parts may be substantially identical to each other. The reduced number of components is another factor that helps reduce manufacturing costs. However, in alternative embodiments, each of the prefabricated base portions may be the same as or different from one another as long as they can be sealedly connected together to form an elongated base.

The prefabricated base parts are sealedly connected together. Any method that can substantially form a watertight seal between the connected base portions can be used. For example, in some embodiments, the tip of one of the buildable base portions may include a projection that is sealingly received in a corresponding recess in the tip of the other of the buildable base portions. This arrangement can be provided in the form of an overhanging projection positioned above a corresponding underhanging projection of an adjacent part. Alternatively, a groove-like structure tongue may be used.

Due to the relatively heavy weight of one base portion supporting the other base portion, a sealant may not be required if the surface of the base portion is sufficiently smooth to make the seal. However, in some embodiments, a sealant may be used to improve the watertightness of the seal between the base portions. Any water-resistant sealing material can be used as the sealing agent, especially a material having some degree of compressibility. Suitable sealants include, for example, silicone-based sealants.

In some embodiments, a prefabricated base may be constructed (eg, cast into a concrete base) with piping and other components on-site. Providing piping (etc.) for the tank and tank system inside the base part not only has the potential to greatly simplify the construction of the tank (eg since exposed piping can be damaged or misaligned during installation). Greatly reduces the chance of leakage.

Additionally, the tanks and tank systems of the present invention may also include additional components that allow for the flow of water through their channels. Examples of these components are described below.

In some embodiments, the tip of the elongated base may be sealed connected to a water discharger to deliver water flow to each of the channels. In some embodiments, the other end of the elongated base portion (ie, the distal end thereof) may be sealedly connected to the drain. In this way, using modular additional components, it is relatively easy to construct a tank capable of providing the flow of water in its channels over the abalone. In some embodiments, the buildable base portion may include features necessary to connect the elongated base to the drain and drain (eg, tab and complementary recess). Alternatively, these features may be provided separately from the buildable base.

The drainer may include, for example, troughs extending across the width of the elongated base, and the water delivered into the troughs then flows into the respective channels. The drain hole may include, for example, a trough extending across the width of the elongated base, and water flowing through each of the channels may be discharged into the trough. A trough extending across the width of the elongated base can deliver a relatively uniform flow of water through each channel of the tank.

The elongated base may be sealably connected to the drain and drain using any suitable mechanism, for example as described above in connection with sealingly connecting the base portion. Typically, as long as water cannot leak from the tank, the drain and drain have substantially the same width as the elongate base, although in some embodiments it may be longer or shorter than the width of the elongated base.

The drain and drain can be constructed of any suitable material such as concrete or plastic. Drainers and drains are typically provided in prefabricated form (i.e., with a prefabricated base) to be consistent with the modularity of the tank, but in some embodiments (e.g., after delivery of the prefabricated base and installation of the elongated base of the tank). ) can be configured separately on site.

The drain and the gutter of the drain can have the same structure or different structures. In some embodiments, one or both of the troughs have a first rim and a second rim, the first rim sealingly connected to the tip of the elongated base. Since the first rim is lower than the second rim, water introduced into the drain trough overflows from the side of the trough rather than over the second rim and flows out into the channel. Likewise, water draining from the channel into the gutter gutter (ie over its first rim) cannot overflow over its (higher) second rim, but instead flows into the gutter (discussed below).

In some embodiments, the drain and drain may be provided in a form capable of switching their respective functions. That is, a drain (eg, a gutter at one end of the elongated base) can be converted so that it becomes a drain, and at the same time a drain (eg, a gutter at the end of the elongated base) is converted to become a drain. This diversion alters the flow direction of the water within the channel(s), simulating tidal flow and assists in feeding and oxygenating the abalone, regardless of their position in the channel (abalone at one end of the channel is the lowest It goes from the place where the hydrogen peroxide water is received to the place where the hydrogen peroxide water is received at the maximum).

The tank may be mounted to the ground (or other surface) in any suitable manner. Existing slab tanks, for example, are typically in the form of concrete slabs made by pouring concrete into formwork properly positioned in the ground. However, such a tank may become non-uniform (which may cause problems due to water currents, etc.), or may crack due to subsequent earth motion. Thus, the tank of the present invention can be placed on the ground, but can also be mounted on one or more piers (eg, a tank that can include a recess or the like in which the piers can be received). The struts are arranged prior to delivery of the prefabricated base part so that they support the base part at a prepared level, while they are connected to each other to form an elongated base part and thus a tank. For example, the prefabricated base part can be moved directly onto these posts upon delivery. As will be appreciated, this method of construction does not require the laying of a foundation, thus potentially reducing the cost of constructing a tank or tank system.

Also advantageously, the use of struts allows the elongated base (etc.) of the tank/tank system to be in a raised position from the ground. This elevated position may be more ergonomic for the operator since there is no need to bend over or squat down to ground level to manually handle material in the channel or the like. In effect, the tank is at a convenient working height for the operator. Moreover, the piping associated with the delivery of water to the channel and the drainage therefrom is above ground level (typically above ground level), rather than buried below ground level (as is the case with tanks placed in ground level), in order to have sufficient drop height. can be placed in As will be appreciated, this not only reduces the amount of work required to install a tank of the present invention (e.g., not only does it eliminate the need to dig trenches for underground piping), but it also makes it much easier to detect and repair any leaks in the piping. allow you to do Also, if it is not buried, the general maintenance of the piping is also greatly simplified.

In some embodiments, the struts may allow the distance at which they protrude from the ground to be adjustable. For example, a screw post is screwed into the ground, and once firmly screwed into the ground, its relative height can be adjusted by tightening or unscrewing the screw. These screw supports can significantly reduce the construction time of the tank system and reduce the materials required.

In addition, the support on which the base portion is mounted can also be used to support the drain and drain described above.

In one embodiment of the tank system of the present invention, the tank system has a central trough and two tanks disposed in line along the longitudinal axis of its elongated base, with the tip of one tank positioned adjacent the tip of the other tank. including the tank A central trough is disposed between the tips between adjacent elongated bases, sealedly connected to the tips (e.g., in the manner described above), and directing water flow into (one or more) channels, or (i.e., as described above). , at the end of an adjacent tank (to enable reverse flow of water flow through the channels) to drain the water delivered into the (one or more) channels. As noted, this embodiment of the tank system is applicable to any even number of tanks (eg, tanks arranged in parallel and in series with a center trough between them).

The tank array of this embodiment is advantageous because providing a center trough reduces the total number of components required to operate the tank system. Also, the space occupied by two tanks arranged in this way is smaller than the space occupied by the two tanks if arranged separately, which may be advantageous in locations where space is limited.

The center trough may have the same characteristics as the drain and gutter described above, but its two rims may need to be of similar height (assuming adjacent tanks are at the same level).

A tank system (or a slab tank system having a tank that is not actually formed with a prefabricated base) may include a liftable platform above the center trough. The elevating platform may receive thereon a drip tray, and the drip tray may be operated to deliver a water surge into one or more channels. These water surges are similar to the waves that occur in the abalone's natural environment and can be used to clean the channels as well as develop more muscle mass in the abalone. Also, periodic cleaning of the channels can help oxygenate and feed the abalone. To help prevent cross-contamination, each tank (or each channel) may have a separate water source and drain, and the vessel may cause an isolated water surge in a separate tank or channel.

The drip container can move along the elevating platform by sliding along a rail provided on the elevating platform, for example. Therefore, it is relatively easy to move the vessel (even when full of water) so that it aligns with a selected channel (or channels) in the tank system. Once positioned, the drip tray can be pivoted (eg, rotated about a central axis) towards the channel of any one of the adjacent tanks to deliver a water surge to the selected channel of the selected tank. In this way, a single vessel can be used to provide water surges to a potentially large number of channels. The vessel may have a width substantially equal to the width of the channel, so that the water surge spans the entire width of the channel. Alternatively, some underlap or overlap may be provided.

It should be noted that the aforementioned drip container may be provided at a location other than the central channel of the tank system (eg, at an end of an adjacent tank).

The tank system (or indeed, a slab tank system having tanks not formed of prefabricated base parts) may include an abalone feeding device that travels along the length of each channel and spreads feed into the channels. This feeding device is automated (manpower and cost can be saved), it is possible to access channels that are difficult for humans to access, and the abalone feed can be more reliably and consistently distributed.

A method is available in which the abalone feeder can distribute feed to all abalone in the tank system. In some embodiments, for example, the feeding device may slide along rails provided on upstanding walls between the channels. This network of rails may extend throughout the tank system, with rails provided in the separate base section being aligned during construction of the tank system. Thus, an automated feeder can be programmed to dispense feed at the appropriate time as it moves through the tank system.

A tank system (or, in practice, a slab tank system having a tank that is not formed with a prefabricated base part) may include a walk-through to access inaccessible or difficult-to-access channels at the side of the tank system. . This passage may be defined, for example (if wide enough) by an upright wall of an elongated base. Alternatively, the passageway may be a separate member wide enough to walk around and connected to the tank system in a suitable manner. In some embodiments, for example, a passageway may connect to one or more upstanding walls at an elongated base.

The tank system (or indeed, a slab tank system having tanks not formed of prefabricated base parts) may further include dual water sources to prevent mass mortality of abalone in the event of failure of the main water source.

The present invention also provides a method of operating the aforementioned tank system, for example in the manner described below.

Submersible container for abalone

In another aspect, the present invention provides a submersible container for holding abalone. The container includes a container wall defining an enclosure for rollover, and the enclosure includes an inner surface thereon to receive capsize. The container also includes one or more holes that allow water to flow through the enclosure when the container is submerged, but cannot pass through the enclosure when it capsizes. In addition, the container includes one or more feeding ports and one or more food dispensers provided on the container wall. Each food dispenser includes an abalone feeding receptacle and a mouth portion received in each feeding port, and one or more food dispensers are independently operable to dispense food contained therein into the enclosure.

Advantageously, the containers are suitable for deployment at sea, thereby relieving limited coastal resources and thus increasing the overall production rate of abalone. In addition, abalone grown in a more natural environment can draw oxygen and at least some nutrients from the surrounding water, eliminating the need for circulation pumps and the like, and reducing the amount of additional feed required. Additionally, the use of the feed dispenser(s) can extend the length of time between inspection of the container and inspection without resorting to the complex and expensive procedures currently employed by some sea abalone farms.

Submersible containers may be of any suitable size, shape and configuration, as long as they are capable of holding abalone in an environment where feed and peroxidized seawater are readily available. The container may be elongated, for example. The container may be substantially tubular, for example. Containers with this shape are physically easier to handle and can hold more abalone while still allowing seawater to flow through them. Other advantages of tubular containers are discussed below.

In some embodiments, for example, the container may be between about 500 mm and 4000 mm in length (eg, between about 1000 mm and 3000 mm, or about 2200 mm). In some embodiments, the container may have a diameter (or cross-sectional length if the container is non-cylindrical) between about 1000 mm and 500 mm (eg, between about 800 mm and 400 mm, or about 620 mm).

Containers are made of any suitable material, bearing in mind that they will spend most of their life submerged in seawater, and will be subject to stringent conditions relating to the movement of water, as well as regular collection, inspection and changeover, as described below. can do. Accordingly, relatively strong plastic materials are desirable (particularly because they can be molded relatively easily using rotational molding, blow molding, etc.). The container may be made, for example, of polyethylene (eg, food grade polyethylene) using (relatively inexpensive) rotational molding techniques. Also, the container may be mostly black, which in some embodiments provides a dark environment favored by abalone.

The container also includes one or more apertures to allow water to flow through the enclosure when the container is submerged. Typically, a single large aperture may provide this function, but at least two apertures will be required to allow cross flow of water through the enclosure. In an elongated embodiment of a submersible container, the one or more apertures may include apertures at either end of the container. In some embodiments, the container has two (or more) primary apertures (typically larger apertures, although these apertures may be smaller apertures arranged in such a way as to accommodate significant flow of seawater therethrough); and It may have a number of (usually smaller) secondary holes.

The hole must be such that abalone cannot pass through it, otherwise the abalone may escape the container (or a predator may enter the container). Preventing rollover from passing through the hole may be accomplished in any suitable manner. The apertures may be provided, for example, in the form of a number of small apertures in the container wall. Alternatively, the apertures may be provided as a mesh covering the larger apertures in the container wall (eg at either end thereof in the case of an elongated container). These meshes allow nutrients and water to easily enter and flow through the enclosure while maintaining abalone. The mesh may, in some embodiments, be provided in a rigid material, in the form of a sheet that is received within a recess in the container wall (which may help protect the mesh from damage).

Such meshes may be formed from any suitable material given the intended use. For example, the netting must be corrosion resistant and strong enough to withstand potentially rough seas and impacts both while in the water and during loading/unloading from boats. One suitable material for forming the mesh is stainless steel, for example about 1.5 mm thick stainless steel with 40% of the surface area open and perforated with 4 mm holes. A net with a thickness of about 1.5 mm has been found to be ideal, as it is such a thickness that the abalone can clean itself. When used, the abalone can graze on the net, and the abalone's mouth can physically access the hole, allowing it to eat algae and the like contained therein. Such grazing can help prevent (or at least retard) biofouling of these nets, allowing water to flow longer through the container. If the mesh is much thicker than 1.5 mm, the abalone may not physically reach the outermost side of the net, and thus biofouling at the outermost side may occur. However, if the mesh is much thinner than 1.5 mm, the strength may be weakened.

A mesh with a pore size of about 4 mm (± 1-2 mm) can be advantageous as it can prevent freshly delivered abalone feed from escaping directly from the enclosure. Instead, the feed remains in the enclosure, accessible to the abalone for consumption. However, over time the feed melts and becomes smaller, and then the feed can pass through appropriately sized holes in the mesh. In this way, old feed not consumed by abalone is likely to be washed out of the enclosure by the current of seawater passing through it.

Similarly, about 4 mm (± 1-2 mm) can be prevented from entering the enclosure by juvenile predators that have the potential to grow to a size that could threaten a grown abalone over the course of a year (e.g., during the first sea growth phase described here). 2 mm) may be advantageous. For example, some predators may be in the water column (although they are typically found on the seabed) and come into contact with submerged containers. In these circumstances, predators large enough to prey on abalone cannot pass through the netting, but young predators can pass through the netting and remain unnoticed during the routine inspection described here. However, after 12 months (after the first or second sea growth stage, respectively), as the abalone is removed from the container for grading or for sale on the market, then juvenile predators that have been able to enter the enclosure are found.

In the embodiment in which the submersible container is a cylindrical container having a length of about 2200 mm and a diameter of 620 mm, the submersible container is formed of 316 stainless steel having a 40% open area and drilled with 4 mm holes, and has a diameter of 600 mm. and two meshes having a thickness of 1.5 mm. These meshes may be disposed at both ends of the container, and the container may provide a circumferential recess a short distance from its tip, in which the mesh may be received.

Additionally, the submersible container may have multiple apertures along its length to further increase the flow of water through the enclosure. These apertures may be covered with rectangular side mesh sections formed of 316 stainless steel having a width of 400 mm, a height of 200 mm and a thickness of 1.5 mm, again having a 40% open area and perforated with 4 mm holes.

An overturn is received on the inner surface of the enclosure. Abalone tends to position itself against protrusions or like to hide in corners or the like, so in general, by including a number of protrusions on its surface, the surface will receive the abalone thereon. In some embodiments, for example, the interior surface may include multiple ribs on the container wall where abalone may inhabit. The ribs may be arranged substantially parallel to each other, for example to facilitate removal of the abalone from the enclosure at a later time (eg for grading or marketing). For example, in an elongated embodiment of the container, the ribs may be disposed substantially aligned with the elongate axis of the container. Since the bottom of the enclosure cannot collect feed and nutrients, these protrusions or ribs may help distribute the feed and nutrients evenly throughout the enclosure.

Other ways to increase the available surface area within the enclosure (and thus increase the holding capacity of the container) and to accommodate overturning are described below.

Abalone in a submersible container can be accessed using the appropriate technique. For example, if a person needs to visually inspect the abalone to see if anything has happened to the abalone, a simple visual inspection through a hole (or a feeding port, as described later) may be sufficient. However, sometimes it may be necessary to inspect the abalone more thoroughly or physically access the abalone inside the container. Thus, in some embodiments, the container may be opened to access the cap in the enclosure. The container may include, for example, one or more gates that, once opened, allow a person to access the abalone within the enclosure. The container can be opened, for example, in such a way as to allow easy access to the entire enclosure, which can help to significantly improve the ease with which caps can be observed or removed.

In some embodiments, for example, a container may include a first part and a second part, the first part and the second part being connected to or connected (eg, hinged or otherwise pivoted) to one side of the container. ), and can move between container open and closed configurations. In such an embodiment, a relatively simple opening action (which may be combined with an unlocking action) may all be required to open the container to fully expose the enclosure. In an elongated container embodiment, the parts may be joined or connected (eg hinged) together at a longitudinal rim, thus further simplifying the opening operation.

The first and second parts may have any shape and may be connected to each other through any suitable mechanism. In some embodiments, the first and second parts are substantially the same, which can simplify the structure of the parts (eg, form them with the same mold). However, this is not required in all embodiments, and the first part may be different from the second part. The container may also include a third part (etc.) connected or capable of being connected to one or both of the first and second parts.

The first and second portions may be held in a closed configuration using any suitable locking mechanism. For example, one or both of the first and second parts may have a mechanical interlock (or multiple such mechanical interlocks). A mechanical interlock can be, for example, a latch that an operator can grasp to unlock. These latches are typically recessed into the container wall to make it difficult to inadvertently open. In addition, such a recess reduces the likelihood of damage to the hinge that may occur during use (most likely during removal and placement of the container from the boat).

In some embodiments, multiple submersible containers may be stacked when the containers are open. Stacked containers typically take up less space, so they are stored more efficiently when not in use or transported.

In some embodiments, the submersible container may be received on a surface in a highly stable manner (ie, when out of water). As noted, it is not safe to use a rollable (otherwise relatively easily movable) container when on a boat. The container may, for example, when in a closed configuration, form at least three separate points of contact with the ground. For example, the container may have at least six points of contact with the ground when in an open form. Protrusions on the outer wall of the container can be used to provide this stability.

The walls of a submersible container may have a suitable structure, as described above, keeping in mind the stringent conditions to which the container may be subjected. In some embodiments, for example, a container wall may include an inner wall and an outer wall, and a cavity between the walls. This double-walled structure gives the container strength, but can also provide other useful features. In some embodiments, the cavity between the inner and outer walls can contain air, water, sand (or any other suitable material), or combinations thereof, for example to adjust the buoyancy of the container.

One or more inlets may be provided for the pumping (etc.) of water into or from the cavity between the inner and outer walls, for example in the form of a drain plug screwable into or detachable from a complementary threaded hole in the container wall. there is. In addition, the inner and outer walls may be formed to abut each other at multiple locations, which may help reinforce the container and make it easier to form (eg, by molding).

As noted above, in order to increase the ability of a container to hold roll over, it is often desirable to increase the surface area available within an enclosure in which roll over can be received. In fact, the larger the surface area of an enclosure, the more abalone can be housed in it, and the more efficient the aquaculture process becomes. Naturally, therefore, it is generally desirable to maximize the surface area inside the enclosure.

In some embodiments, the enclosure may contain a member therein, which member provides an additional inner surface to accommodate rollover. This member may be of any suitable shape, as long as abalone can nest thereon, fit within the enclosure, and not impede the flow of water and feed through the enclosure. As will be appreciated, this member can also ideally be removed from the enclosure for easier harvesting of any abalone thereon.

The enclosure may contain the member in any suitable manner. For example, with the member hanging from the cross bar, the enclosure may include a recess holding the cross bar (or bars) therebetween. Alternatively, the enclosure may include a suitably aligned slit or channel through which the rim of the member can be received. Ideally, the member is suspended inside the enclosure, leaving as much surface area as possible on the inside wall of the overturning container.

The member itself may have any suitable form as long as it can satisfy the aforementioned functional requirements. In some embodiments, for example, the member can be substantially planar, which allows the abalone to be easily removed (ie, after the member is removed from the enclosure) and easily stored when not in use. In some embodiments, for example, the member may be folded to fit within an enclosure, and in some embodiments may be folded multiple times to define multiple additional surfaces to accommodate rollover. The member is foldable such that, for example, a plurality of additional surfaces are substantially parallel to each other and separated by a rollover receiving distance. As is well known, overturning tends to like the corners and corners formed by this folding.

In some embodiments, there may be multiple members within the enclosure (e.g., widened along the length and/or width of the elongated enclosure and optionally joined together to provide an effectively continuous surface). . Some embodiments may provide fasteners to releasably attach multiple members together.

In certain embodiments, the member may be provided in the form of a corrugated plastic or corrugated sheet (eg, flat corflute material). For example, a 1.2 m x 1.2 m corflute sheet (e.g., formed of polypropylene and having a thickness of about 4 mm) has folds that can be formed using heating techniques known in the art (e.g., can be folded along) to create an inner surface to which the abalone can be attached and fed. The seat may include 50 mm holes to allow the abalone to forage across the surface, and 18 mm holes to accommodate support rods placed in receiving lugs embedded on either side of the container wall in the enclosure. Such a corflute member is advantageous because it is lightweight but durable.

The submersible container also includes one or more feeding ports provided on the container wall through which food for the abalone can be distributed into the enclosure. In some embodiments, the feeding port may be defined by a hole through the container wall, the hole receiving a respective food dispenser therein (eg, using a screw thread or the like).

The submersible container also includes one or more food dispensers. Each food dispenser includes an abalone feeding receptacle and a mouth portion received in each feeding port, and is independently operable to dispense the food contained in its receptacle into the enclosure.

If the delivery of food is not sufficient, the abalone will not grow at an optimal rate, but if too much food is supplied, it can adversely affect water quality and increase production costs, the process by which food is delivered to the abalone inside the container of the present invention needs to be carefully monitored. While it is possible to closely monitor abalone growth in coastal facilities, doing so at sea is much more complicated. Feeding of abalone usually has to be done on a weekly basis, but such operations at sea facilities (compared to shore facilities) require considerable time and effort. In fact, some of the containers proposed for use with sea abalone farms will require the use of divers or remotely operated submersible vehicles to feed the abalone contained therein. The use of the feed dispenser described here can greatly reduce the effort and costs associated with feeding abalone at sea facilities.

Each food dispenser may be adapted to dispense the food contained therein using any suitable mechanism. The food dispenser may be activated (or adapted) to dispense food contained therein to the enclosure, for example at a predetermined time or in response to a signal (generated internally or externally from the dispenser). In embodiments where multiple food dispensers are used, each dispenser may be activated to dispense those foods into the enclosure at different times. Thus, the combined use of such feed dispensers can reduce the frequency of containers having to be retrieved from the sea for feeding and/or inspection of abalone without resorting to expensive resources such as divers.

Food contained in the container may be dispensed into the enclosure using any suitable method. In some embodiments, for example, each dispenser may include a gate that can move from a closed position to an open position upon receipt of a signal, such that when the gate moves to the open position, the food in the container is dispensed. do. For example, the gate may be spring loaded, as described in more detail below.

In a specific embodiment, the feed dispenser for use with the submersible container of the present invention is capable of moving from a closed position to an open position upon receipt of a container for holding an abalone feed, a coupling accommodated in each feeding port of the container, and a signal gates may be included. Feed in the container is dispensed when the gate moves to the open position.

The present invention also provides a food dispenser that is suitable for use with the submersible container of the present invention described above, but can be readily used with other abalone-containing containers, or indeed containers containing other aquatic species. The food dispenser includes a container for storing abalone food, a mouth portion accommodated in a feeding port of the container, and a gate that can move from a closed position to an open position when a signal is received. Feed in the container is dispensed when the gate moves to the open position.

As is well known, the use of such a feeder that automatically dispenses food to the abalone reduces the frequency with which it is necessary to remove the abalone from the water being supplied. Indeed, with many of the feeders of the present invention, stock at least as much as possible to ensure that they grow at an appropriate rate, that no predators are present, or that the flow of seawater through the container is not obstructed by fouling or the like. Because they have to be inspected frequently together, they can go for a considerable amount of time without needing to inspect the abalone, although in reality it should not exceed about a month.

The signal that causes each feeder to dispense food into the container's enclosure can be generated internally (eg, at the end of a predetermined time) or externally (eg, in response to a radio or microwave signal transmitted by a base station). .

In certain embodiments, for example, there may be three feeders on a submersible container that are programmed to dispense feed of abalone after 7 days, 14 days and 21 days, respectively. Thus, once the abalone in the container has been inspected by the operator on the boat to make sure they are being farmed properly, etc., enough feed can be added for 7 days, the container can be closed, and returned back to the sea. . Now the operator does not have to take this container back for inspection etc. for 28 days.

In some embodiments, the feeder may also provide a warning signal, for example if the feeder fails to eject its food or is otherwise damaged.

Submersible containers may also include additional features or components consistent with their intended use. In some embodiments, for example, the container may include one or more attachment points (eg, holes through which connectors or tethers are received), allowing the container to be suspended in water or periodically to tip over. It can be lifted into or out of the water to inspect and feed, inspect and maintain the container. Typically, each container will have at least two attachment points, usually placed at the ends of the container, to ensure maximum stability when suspended in water and when being lifted/lowered.

Submersible containers may also include features or components for measuring relevant parameters, such as changes in seawater through the enclosure, temperature, pH, salinity of the seawater, and concentrations of species such as heavy metals in the water inside the container. These parameters can be useful in optimizing the growth of abalone, or can provide an immediate warning if conditions for abalone become unfavorable. The container may also contain a waterproof camera capable of transmitting visual images of the inside of the container to a remote operator. In some embodiments, the container (or another component of the sea facility, such as a buoy attached to a line, as described below) may require a radio transmitter to transmit these images to a remote operator. The camera and/or radio transmitter may be powered from solar energy where appropriate. These instruments may be associated with the container in any suitable manner, for example by inserting them into one of the feeding ports of the container (discussed below).

How to Farm Abalone in an Ocean Location

In addition, the present invention also provides a method for farming abalone at sea locations. The method comprises placing at least one submersible container of the present invention as described above on a longline anchored to the bottom of the sea; Periodically retrieving each of the one or more submersible containers and inspecting the abalone contained therein (eg, for predators, expected growth, mortality, etc.). The method will also typically include replacing any empty food dispenser(s) with full food dispenser(s).

As discussed in more detail below, in some embodiments, one or more submersible containers may be retrieved using a retrieval device that overhangs the side of the boat. The retrieval device can lift the container out of the water, position the container on the deck of the boat to inspect it for capsize, and later return the container to the water.

In some embodiments, the lines are suspended from buoys spaced along the lines (eg, at intervals of about 1 to 100 m, about 5 to 50 m, or about 10 m), and their ends are connected to the seabed via screw anchors, concrete blocks, or the like. , which consists of a rope (back bone) of about 10 to 500 meters in length (eg, about 50 to 200 meters in length, or about 100 meters in length). About 20 of the containers of the present invention can be suspended from 100 m longlines (eg, at about 1 to 3 m below the water surface), resulting in about 2 tonnes of abalone production per year. A sea facility is, for example, about 3 hectares in size and can have about 10 lineages. Work vessels enter and leave the facility daily, and the facility is usually located right next to the hatchery. Each 3 hectare site is expected to produce 20 tonnes of abalone per year.

In some embodiments, the method comprises a first seafaring stage (intermediate growth stage) in which abalone of about 25 mm in size is removed from a shore slab tank (after a shore duration of about 12 months) and placed in the container described above and submerged in water. can include Each properly sized container can hold up to about 4,000 abalone of this size. As described above, for about 12 months, that is, during the period during which the abalone grows to a size of about 50 mm, the abalone is periodically fed and inspected.

At the end of the first seafaring phase, the containers are removed from the water and transported by ship to the processing facility, where the abalone are removed from the containers and graded (health and weight, while any undersized or undersized abalone are discarded) checked. Next, an appropriate number (about 2,000 50 mm abalone) of abalone is returned to another container for the second sea farming stage (final growth stage). Used containers are inspected for any predator infestations, cleaned and prepared for reuse. Next, the containers containing the abalone are returned to the sea facility for the second seafaring phase using the vessel, where the abalone is harvested for approximately 80-90 days for 12 months, the time required to harvest the abalone for sale to the market. grow to millimeters in size.

Harvesting takes place at the end of the final growing stage (i.e. after about 12 additional months at sea). During this stage the abalone are fed increased amounts of feed and grow by 25 mm, but up to 80% of their final weight. Again, the containers are removed from the line and transported by ship to a processing facility, where the abalone are removed from the containers and graded by size. Next, the abalone is processed into one of many styles of market product, including fresh, frozen, canned, individually quick frozen (IQF) or dried. Next, the container is washed for reuse in the first or second sea farming stage.

As mentioned above, periodically inspect the abalone inside the container during the intermediate and final growth stages to ensure that they are growing at the expected rate and that nothing unusual has happened to the abalone. While each container is visually inspected for abalone (either through the feeding port or by opening the container), it is typically necessary to remove the container completely from the water about every month to replenish the feed dispenser. However, continuous monitoring of abalone in the interim is good practice, which can be achieved by regularly inspecting abalone in containers at random (e.g., containers on each line randomly every few days or every week). During this inspection, the single container on the longline can be retrieved and the contents therein inspected (eg, by removing the food dispenser, through a hole, and looking into the container through the feeding port, or by opening the container). If the overturning in the inspected container grows as expected, the overturning of the surrounding containers can also be reasonably inferred. Therefore, although a regular inspection process can be performed, the inspection can be performed sufficiently with only a small amount of necessary effort.

The container can advantageously be placed on or retrieved from a maintenance boat or vessel without the need for divers. Even more advantageously, the line allows the container to float with the low and current tides, minimizing the effect of shadows cast on the seabed and improving the "environmentally friendly" nature of the facility. Moreover, since the containers are suspended below sea level, the movement of water through the containers can be maximized, thus providing more nutrients and oxygen compared to farms located in fixed locations.

In some embodiments, one or more submersible containers may be retrieved using a retrieval device that overhangs the side of a boat or vessel. The retrieval device can be operated to lift the container out of the water, or to place the container on the deck of a boat to inspect it for capsize, and later return the container to the water.

The retrieval device also engages the line and preferably raises the line out of the water to a convenient height above the boat where a person can access the container attached thereto without having to disengage from the line. The retrieval device can also be operated to place the container on deck, whereby the capsize can be inspected in a very convenient manner (eg by opening the container while sitting on deck and not dangling from the side of the boat).

The retrieval device may have any structure suitable for achieving the functions described above. Certain types of retrieval devices are described below by way of example only.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of non-limiting example with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Referring first to FIG. 1 , a tank system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The tank system 10 has eight buildable bases 12 arranged in an array with two bases wide and four bases long. A central trough 14 divides the base array in half. Each base portion 12 is about 5 m wide and about 9 m long, so that when combined as shown, there are eight channels, shown at 16 overall, each channel having a width of about 2.5 m and a length of about 9 m. It has a length of about 18 m. The bottom of each base portion 12 has a thickness of about 150 mm, which provides a good balance of strength to weight.

Each base portion 12 extends for the length of the base portion 12 and is aligned with a corresponding wall on an adjacent base, showing as a whole a wall 18 defining a channel 16 therebetween. have upright walls. The wall 18 has a height of about 150 mm, which allows a water depth of about 70 mm (see Fig. 2) to be easily maintained within the channel 16 for the abalone to move, feed and grow. In some embodiments (not shown), the top of wall 18 may include a rail along which an automated feeder may move. The structure of the wall 18 is described in more detail below.

Since each prefabricated base part 12 is molded into a block by concrete and has a weight of about 10 tons, it can be transported and assembled using conventional equipment. Although not shown, the surface of the base portion 12 where the abalone will inhabit may include a ridge or the like that provides a shelter for the abalone. The ridges are preferably created during the manufacturing process, and may be arranged transversely in the channels, or in other orientations such as longitudinally, for example to aid the flow of water along the channels 16 . Additionally, the top of wall 18 may include a coating (not shown) to help prevent rollover from escaping.

In an alternative embodiment (see FIG. 6 ), the base portion 112 may have a width of approximately 10 m and a length of 9 m, and an eight-channel tank system 110 similar to tank system 10 may have four base portions. Only (112) is required. It may be advantageous to use fewer bases to manufacture the tank system. However, these advantages should be weighed carefully against the difficulties of transporting and installing larger (and therefore potentially heavier) components.

As will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, tank system 10 (and 110) is not only effective in construction compared to conventional slab tank construction methods (i.e., pouring concrete), but also in terms of overturning modality (as described below), tank system 10 ) operation and ongoing maintenance. The tank system 10 provides an environment for cultivating juvenile abalone up to a size of about 25 mm via a plate tank, which can then be collected and placed, for example, in a sea facility for further growth. Alternatively, if sea facilities are not available, juvenile abalone can be grown to marketable size in tank system 10.

Although not shown, the prefabricated base portion 12 (and 112) provides attachment of other components of the tank system 10 (and 110), such as piping components, electrical components, or other parts of the tank system to the base portion. It may include components that facilitate. These components may be block molded into a prefabricated base during its manufacturing process.

The prefabricated base parts 12 and 12 are connected in series at a connection part 20 which is also shown in an enlarged form in FIG. 1 . The connecting portion 20 has an overhang-underhang arrangement, wherein a protrusion 22 on one rim of the base portion 12 is received over a lip 24 on the rim of the adjacent base portion 12 . The degree of overlap of the joint 20 is typically about 50 mm, and the pressure applied to the joint 20 is usually sufficient to make it watertight (although in some circumstances the joint 20 may have a seal not shown). . A joint, such as joint 20, does not require a watertight connection between these parts due to the side walls 18, 18, so it is not necessary to connect laterally adjacent prefabricated base portions 12, 12. Adjacent base portions 12, 12 may each remain in place by virtue of their weight or by using any suitable means, such as clamps or other fasteners (not shown).

The end of each base portion 12 has no walls, but is open-ended, so that it can engage both end troughs 26, 26 and the central trough 14 in the manner described below. Also, as described in more detail below, the end troughs 26, 26 and the center trough 14 provide both water supply and water drainage to the channel 16. In use, water may be arranged to flow through the channels 16 in one direction for a predetermined amount of time and then in the opposite direction for another predetermined amount of time. This flow of water mimics the tidal current and not only cleans the channel 16, but also helps to feed and oxygenate the abalone evenly.

Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3 , the end trough 26 and peripheral components of the base portions 12 and 12 are shown in greater detail. End gutter 26 supplies water to tank system 10 and drains water therefrom. The end trough 26 is sealedly engaged with the rim of the buildable base portion 12, 12 so that the trough is in fluid communication with all four channels 16. The trough 26 has a first longitudinal wall 28 and a second longitudinal wall 30 . The first wall 28 (i.e., as shown in FIG. 2) is suitable for engagement with the bottom rim of the base portion 12, 12 (i.e., when the double-end trough is in its working form), the second lower than the wall 30. These height differences allow the trough 26 to be in fluid communication with the channel 16, while retaining water within the channel, while preventing water from overflowing over the wall 30 (as seen in FIG. 2). The end trough 26 also includes a divider 32 (see FIG. 3), which (as discussed in more detail below) allows for proper positioning of the prefabricated base portion 12, 12 relative to the end trough 26. For this purpose, it aligns with the wall 18 and prevents the flow of water from one channel 16 to the other channel 16 (which could result in cross-contamination of the channels 16, 16). The end trough 26 also has a raised end at its end rim that aligns with the walls 18, 18 at the corresponding rim of the base portion 12, 12 to prevent water from leaving the system 10. 34, 34).

As can be seen in FIG. 3 , the central partition 32 of the gutter 26 extends upwardly past the wall 28 and is received within the gap between the walls 18 , 18 of adjacent base portions 12 , 12 . have a range that can be As mentioned above, this arrangement can ensure proper (watertight) alignment between the base portions 12, 12 and the end trough 26, as well as each other. The central partition 32 of the gutter 26 is received in the gap between the walls 18, 18, and the other walls 18, 18 of each base portion 12, 12 form a central partition 32, 32 and a raised When aligned against the ends 34, 34, respectively, the base portions 12, 12 and the end troughs 26 are properly aligned with each other.

A gap between the central divider 32 of the trough 26 and the walls 18, 18 of the adjacent base portion may provide another advantage. As noted, visually inspecting the four outermost channels 16 of the tank system 10 is a relatively simple matter for the operator. However, the four innermost channels 16 are more than 2.5 m away from the rim of the system 10 and are not easy to inspect. Accordingly, it may be useful to provide passages (not shown) along the center of the tank system 10 to allow an operator to walk between the four innermost channels 16 . In this regard, as the walls 18 and the partitions 32, 34 both have a width of about 150 mm, the central wall (i.e., the walls 18, 18 of the left and right base portions 12, 12 and The total width of the partition (including the partition 32 therebetween) is about 450 mm, which is wide enough to walk around. Alternatively, by providing a passage (not shown) on the central portion of the system 10 with a rib on the underside received between the walls 18, 18 of the left and right base portions 12, 12 to support the passage. You may.

One or more pipes (36, see FIG. 2) are provided to convey the flow of seawater into the end gutter (26). If there is only one pipe, in order for the water to flow down the diaphragm 32 and then into each channel 16, the diaphragm 32 must not extend to the bottom end of the trough 26 (see Fig. 2). Alternatively, a pipe 36 may be provided for each channel 16 (although this may involve more infrastructure). As water flows from the end troughs 26, 26 into the channels 16, 16, 16, 16, the volume of seawater flowing out of the pipe or pipes 36 is such that it provides an appropriate flow rate through the channels (and to maintain an appropriate water level in the channel).

The end gutter 26 also includes a drain (or drains) 37 that can be opened to discharge a selectable volume of seawater from the gutter. When the flow of water is reversed so that water flows from the channels 16, 16, 16, 16 into the gutter 26, 26, the volume of seawater drained through the drains 37, 37 provides an appropriate flow rate through the channels. (and to maintain an appropriate water level in the channel).

The walls 28 and 30 of the gutter 26 and the base may have a thickness of about 150 mm and, like the prefabricated base portion 12, may be block molded concrete. System 10 may also include a partition wall or grate (not shown) to prevent rollover from migrating into end trough 26 (and center trough 14).

Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5 , the center trough 14 is shown in more detail. Like the end troughs 26, 26, the center trough 14 spans the entire width of the array of adjacent base portions 12, 12 and supplies water to and drains water from the tank system 10. Each of the rim walls 38, 38 of the center trough 14 can be sealed to receive and seal the lower rim of the aligned prefabricated base portion 12, 12 so that the center trough 14 is able to seal all channels of the system 10. It is in fluid communication with (16).

Like the end gutter 26, the central gutter 14 also aligns with and abuts or receives the wall 18 and, as described above, transfers water from one channel 16 to the other. It has partitions, generally shown at 39 and 40, that substantially prevent flow. As can be seen in FIG. 4, the center diaphragm 40 provides for proper alignment of the base portions 12, 12 at both ends (i.e., with respect to the center diaphragm 32, 32 of the end trough 26, 26). It is received in a recess located between the walls 18 , 18 of adjacent base parts 12 , 12 , so as to ensure. Once aligned, a substantially watertight seal is formed between the center trough 14 and the channel 16 .

In FIG. 5 , the central trough 14 is shown having a water supply means in the form of water inlets 41 , 41 and a drainage means in the form of a drain 42 . Water inlets 41 and drains 42 may be selectively actuated (in combination with equivalent features of end troughs 26, 26) to achieve a desired direction of water flow through channel 16.

Also shown (partially) in FIG. 5 is a wave generator 44, which may operate to help clean the channel 16 by creating waves in the water to remove debris and debris collected in the channel. It includes a rotary cylinder 46 that can be. Regular cleaning of the channel 16 helps keep the abalone healthy and can also help improve the muscle mass of the abalone. The wave generator 44 is disposed on a ledge 48 located above the center trough 14 so that the waves flow in either the left or right direction (as seen in FIG. 5), thereby channeling the channels on either side of the center trough. (16) is cleaned. Alternatively (and for example as shown in FIG. 6 ), a wave generator 44 may instead (or additionally) be placed over one or both of the end troughs 26 , 26 , wherein the wave generator 44 may be disposed is passed through the channel 16 and flows into the central trough 14.

The wave generator 44 includes means such as taps, hoses, etc. (not shown) for filling the tumbler 46 with seawater. The tumbler 46 is rotatable and includes a large hole (not shown) through which water is rapidly discharged. In this way, the operator can fill the tumbler 46 with seawater and then rapidly rotate the tumbler 46 to release the water into the desired channel 16 . This operation can be performed automatically if the appropriate infrastructure is provided. The tumbler 46 can be rotated in any direction so as to generate waves in either direction. In another embodiment, the tumbler 46 is provided in an unstable configuration, so that filling the tumbler 46 (eg, via a continuous supply of water) will cause the tumbler (once it contains a constant volume of water) to circulate. Tradition 46 is tilted from time to time, allowing it to create periodic waves.

Also, the wave generator 44 may be installed on a rail 51 provided on the shelf 48 so as to slide between adjacent channels 16 . In this way, the operator can use the tumbler 46 to clean the first channel 16, then follow the tumbler 50 along the rail until the tumbler is positioned over the second channel 16. (46) can be pushed, and the above process is repeated.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the wave generator may include at least one spray of water. In this alternative embodiment, the wave generator relies on a movable spray jet to create the waves. Specifically, the wave generator includes a spray jet mounted on a crane or the like, and the crane can move up and down along the length of the channel (or channels) 16 . In use, the operator positions the crane at one end of the channel 16, activates the spray, and then moves the crane along the length of the channel 16. The spray can be oriented in the direction of travel to generate waves. Additionally, the direction of the spray is user configurable, so the operator can direct the spray in the opposite direction for return movement along the channel 16 . In this embodiment too, the crane may be placed on a rail (not shown), such as a rail placed on top of the wall 18.

An alternative embodiment of a tank system is shown in FIG. 6 in the form of tank system 110 . The tank system 110 has four prefabricated base sections 112 arranged in an array having a width of one base section 112 and a length of four base sections 112 . A center trough 114 divides the array of base sections in half. Each base portion 112 is about 10 m wide and about 9 m long, so when combined as shown, each half provides four channels with a width of about 2.5 m (i.e., system 100 ) has a total of 8 channels 116). In addition, the tank system 110 includes three wave generators 144 located above the central trough 114 and the end troughs 126 and 126 .

The prefabricated base portion 112 of the tank system 110 is not placed directly on the ground, but is placed in a raised position. This arrangement provides space for the center trough 114 and the end troughs 126, 126, and is advantageous in that it does not require foundation preparation. In one embodiment, a level of staging is provided using posts, such as screw posts, generally shown at numeral 160. In this way, during construction, the screw posts 160 are screwed into the ground to a ready level, after which the prefabricated base part 112 is placed (separately or together) on top of the screw posts 160 . The screw post 160 also provides support for the center trough 114 and the end troughs 126, 126, with the buildable base portion 112 positioned relative to the trough in the manner described above. The relative height of each screw post 160 can be adjusted by screwing the post 160 into or out of the ground to provide substantially uniform support throughout the tank system 110 .

Referring now to FIG. 7 , a water supply and drainage system 200 is shown supplying water flow to eight channels, shown generally at 216 , in a tank system 210 . Water system 200 has a primary supply line 270 . Primary supply line 270 usually draws water directly from the sea. In addition, the water supply system 200 also includes a secondary auxiliary line 280 for backup in case the primary supply line 270 fails for some reason or provides an inadequate water flow. The primary supply line 270 and the secondary auxiliary line 280 may supply water to both the water supply and drainage end gutters 226 and 226 and the water supply and drainage central gutter 214 .

Drainage system 200 includes a drain outlet, generally shown at 290, that can be selectively actuated by a control valve, shown generally at 292. Drainage outlet 290 is encased in drainage spurs 294 which may include one or more access manholes (not shown). The drain water 294 is placed in one or more settling basins (also not shown), where the water can be stored (after treatment if necessary) before being returned to the sea.

Referring now to FIG. 8 , an exemplary array of tank systems 10 (or 110 or 210 ) is shown. The tank array includes six tank systems, shown at 10 in total, that can be accommodated within a warehouse 60. Shed 60 may, for example, provide a dark environment that abalone likes. Warehouse 60 includes a work and storage area 62 accessible by one or more doors 64 . A water supply and drainage system similar to that described above with reference to FIG. 7 may be used to supply water to all tank systems 10 inside the warehouse 60 .

Referring now to FIGS. 9 to 12 , a submersible container containing abalone in the form of a tube 300 in FIG. 9 and a tube 301 in FIGS. 10 to 12 are shown. Tubes 300 and 301 are identical except for the number of feeding ports they have, where tube 300 has three feeding ports and tube 301 has only one feeding port. Common features of tubes 300 and 301 are described below using the same reference numbers.

In this embodiment, the tubes 300 and 301 are tube-shaped with an inner diameter of about 570 mm and a length of about 2200 mm. However, the shape of the tubes 300/301 can be configurable depending on their intended use, and can be spherical, etc., or can be a non-circular (eg, elliptical, triangular, square, etc.) cross-section. The tube shape advantageously provides ease of handling while permitting the flow of water through the tubes 300/301, usually with the tubes aligned with algae and/or ocean currents using to maximize water flow therethrough. do. Tubes 300/301 may be made of a suitable plastic material, such as polyethylene, preferably food grade polyethylene, to eliminate the risk of contamination of abalone for human consumption. Since abalone prefers a dark environment, tubes 300/301 are preferably black (at least inside). However, painting the outside of the tubes 300/301 in a striking color makes them more visually distinct, making them easier to place in water.

The tube 300/301 includes two halves, an upper half 302 and a lower half 304. Upper half 302 and lower half 304 are connected along one rim by hinges shown as hinge 306 as a whole. Hinge 306 may be a one-piece hinge with PVC or PE hinge rods. As can be seen by comparing FIGS. 9 and 10 , the tubes 300/301 can be fully opened to allow access to their interior for cleaning, maintenance and harvesting of abalone. Since upper half 302 and lower half 304 are substantially identical to each other, tubes 300/301 are made from the same plastic injection or rotational mold (since the tubes do not include overhangs, they are manufactured from a single plastic injection or rotational mold). is possible). As can be seen in FIG. 10 , the empty tubes 300/301 can be stacked together when in open form for easy storage.

Further, the tube 300/301 is generally shown in the form of a latch 308 (see FIG. 10) and includes a releasable mechanical interlock capable of securing the tube 300/301 in a closed configuration. Each latch 308 includes a male prong 310 on the rim of the lower half 304 that is received in a corresponding recess 312 on the rim of the upper half 302 (or vice versa). The tongues on the rakes 310 are held by corresponding grooves in the recesses 312 so that, once in closed configuration, to open the tubes 300/301, a simultaneous pushing and opening action (particularly the plurality of latches 308 being opened) is required. is unlikely to be performed by chance when there is As can be seen in FIG. 10, the latch 308 is recessed to avoid damage in use and to reduce the possibility of accidental opening at sea or during loading/unloading.

The walls of the tubes 300/301 are of a double-layer construction with an outer layer (clearly visible in FIG. 9) and an inner layer (clearly visible in FIG. 10), defining a cavity therebetween. This cavity can be filled with water, air, sand or a combination thereof, through holes with plugs 314 provided in the upper half 302 and lower half 304 to adjust the buoyancy of the tubes 300/301. There is, facilitating the adjustment operation. In addition, both the inner and outer layers include multiple recesses (generally shown at 315) that abut each other within the cavity to increase the structural rigidity of the wall. Recess 315 may be generally conical, which may help to further increase strength.

Tube 300/301 also has two lifting lugs, shown generally at 316, at each end of each half 302, 304. Lifting lugs 316 are integrally formed with the tube walls and are holes through which ropes or other attachment means can be threaded to suspend and/or retrieve and deploy the tubes 300/301 in the water (as described below). includes As can be seen in FIGS. 9 and 10 , the lifting lugs 316 and 316 are also designed to prevent rolling when the circular tubes 300/301 are resting on a surface (such as the deck of a boat). Each half of the tube 300 also makes at least two (preferably three, as shown in the figure) points of contact with the ground.

The tubes 300/301 may be placed on the seabed while the abalone contained within them is growing, but it is generally preferred that they be suspended from the water column (i.e., easier to access for inspection and less likely to be exposed to algae and currents). larger, less vulnerable to predators and biofouling). The upper half 302 of the tube 300/301 has a hole generally shown at 318 at each end for receiving a rope (not shown) on which the tube is suspended in the sea from a longline (discussed below). A tether is threaded through the hole 318 and a sturdy knot, such as a sailor's knot, may be used to secure the tubes 300/301 to the tether. In this way, the tether can move freely through the hole, allowing the tubes 300/301 to drift up and down in the current. Holes 318 are oriented upwards in use to engage a tether. Corresponding holes, generally shown at 319, may be provided in the lower half 304 to which weights may be attached, for example.

As can be seen in FIG. 10 , the interior surfaces of upper half 302 and lower half 304 include a plurality of longitudinally extending ribs, shown generally at 320 . The rib 320 facilitates the habitat of abalone by enabling the collection of feed and providing an obstacle for the abalone to rest.

Ribs 320 can also help increase the structural rigidity of tubes 300/301.

Tubes 300/301 also include a number of holes through which water can pass. Tube 300/301 includes a number of side holes, shown generally at 326, as well as tip holes 322 and 324. To prevent the abalone from escaping, since the holes 322, 324 and 326 are quite large, the holes are entirely covered by a mesh, shown as mesh 328 (in FIG. 9, the mesh 328 is the tip hole 322 ) to cover). Mesh 328 allows water to flow through it when in use, but is too fine for overturn to pass through. The mesh 328 is formed of corrosion-resistant stainless steel and has a thickness and pore size such that the abalone can clean itself by grazing (in the manner described above). Mesh 328 is provided in the form of a circular disk with a rubber ring (not numbered) around its circumference. The rubber rings are suitable for receiving in recesses 330 and 330 disposed at both ends of upper half 302 and lower half 304 (see Figs. 10 and 12). Each recess 330 is disposed inside the tube 300/301, a short distance therein, to protect the mesh 328 from impact and damage. Once the tubes 300/301 are closed, the tip of the mesh 328 is held firmly within the recess 330, with the rollover enclosure formed therebetween.

The upper half 302 of the tube 300 also includes three feeding ports, shown at 332, 332 and 332, each receiving a food dispenser (described below). The feeding ports 332 , 332 and 332 are equally spaced along the length of the tube 300 . Similarly, the upper half 302 of the tube 301 is shown at 332 and includes a centrally disposed feeding port. Each feed port 332 has a thread (not shown) through which a feed dispenser can be screwed into the tube and extended thereto, as will be described in more detail below. If the feed ports 332 do not contain a feed dispenser, these ports may be closed with a plug or a removable stopper such as a threaded stopper (not shown).

Referring now to FIGS. 11 and 12 , the tube 300/301 is shown including a member in the form of a folded corflute sheet 334 to increase the surface area available to the rollover inside the tube. As noted above, the available surface area inside the tubes 300/301 increases the ability of the tubes to support abalone. The sheet 334 is folded into a flat-folded type, and is placed inside the crossbar 336 by at least one (typically three for a tube of this length) number of thirds within the tubes 300/301. placed in position and maintained. As can be seen, the seat 334 is suspended within the tubes 300/301, so that the rollover capacity of the inner tube wall is not adversely affected. The cross bar 336 engages the inside of the tube in a manner described below. Depending on the size of the sheet 334 and the length of the tube 300/301, one or more sheets 334 may be provided to maximize the available surface area inside the tube.

In this way, maximum surface area is provided within the tubes 300/301 to contain as many abalones as possible therein. In addition, the flat-folded member provides an ideal aquaculture environment for abalone by providing corners and crevices where abalone can hide and feed collects. Advantageously, however, since the sheet 334 is provided in the form of a single substantially flat piece when unfolded, it is easy to separate from the tube (i.e., one piece) and, once unfolded, easy to remove the abalone therefrom (if the abalone is There is nowhere to hide). The orientation of the sheet 334 substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tubes 300/301 allows a sufficient volume of peroxidized seawater to flow through the tubes.

13 shows an alternative embodiment of seat 334 in a deployed configuration and in the form of seat 337 . Sheet 337 has a similar construction and form (when folded) to sheet 334, and is otherwise identical to sheet 334 except for a slightly different configuration thereon (described below). Sheet 337 has a number of pre-folds, shown generally at 338, so that it can be readily folded into the form shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. Pre-fold lines 338 may be imparted to sheets 337 and sheets 334 during construction, or may be added in the field, using any suitable heating or ultrasound-based technique. Sheet 337 (and 334) includes relatively thin connecting strips, shown generally at 340, between relatively wide panel portions, shown generally at 342. The connecting strips 340 are of sufficient width to provide a distance between adjacent panel portions 342 and 342 such that (when folded) rollover moves freely and unimpeded.

Sheet 337 also has an array of relatively large holes, shown generally at 344, through which abalone, fodder, hydrogen peroxide water, etc. are passed. In the illustrated embodiment, the large apertures 344 are arranged such that each panel portion 342 includes two apertures 344 and each connecting strip 340 includes three apertures 344 . A small hole, shown generally at 346, is provided when the sheet 337 (or 334) is in a folded configuration so that the folded sheet can be mounted inside the tube 300/301, as described above (see FIG. 12). , It is arranged to be sized to accommodate the cross bar 336 therethrough.

Sheet 337 also has one or more fasteners 348 (only one fastener is shown in FIG. 13 for clarity) securing adjacent panel portions 342 and 342 to each other, so that when in use, the folded sheet Irrespective of any other force that may be applied, it holds the sheet 337 (or 334) in the flat-fold type configuration shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 . The panel fastener 348 includes a releasable mechanical interlock such that the panel portions 342 and 342 are releasably secured together via an arrangement of slots and tabs. In this regard, panel fasteners 348 have inwardly foldable tabs 350 to allow insertion of fasteners 348 into respective slots, generally shown as slots 352, of adjacent panels 342. Once through slot 352 , tab 350 tends to deploy resiliently, thereby preventing fastener 348 from being too large to be pulled back through slot 352 . Preferably, fasteners 348 are press cut to be integral with panel portion 342 in a collapsible condition in use to insert fasteners 348 into slots 352 . Alternatively, if the sheet 334 is removed from the tubes 300/301 for easier access to rollovers thereon, the fasteners ( 348) may be attached to the surface of adjacent panel portion 342.

As best shown in FIG. 11 , the sheet 334/337 may be folded to define an outer profile having a shape that, in use, fits within the circular interior of the tube 300/301. Thus, by changing the width of the panel 342, it can be gradually narrowed toward the rim of the sheet 334/337.

As mentioned above, seats 334 and 337 are made of a lightweight and durable corflute material. The preferred orientation of the corflute is shown as a cutout 354 (see FIG. 13). This orientation advantageously allows stretch stiffness of the sheets 334/337 and allows any entrapped air to escape when submerged. Corflute material can be made from food grade materials, and abalone can be black as they like dark environments.

At the end of the rollover growth period, the folded sheet 334/337 can be pulled from the inside of the tube 300/301 (ie, opened once removed from the water) and unfolded to provide a substantially flat surface. can do. As noted, it is much easier to peel abalone from a flat surface than from a folded surface.

As will be described in more detail below, the tubes 300/301 are suitable for use in submerged sea abalone farms. More than 3,000 juvenile abalone, about 25 mm in length, can be placed in a tube and fed with a suitable prepared feed regularly (eg, about every 1-2 weeks, as described below). After about a year, the abalone have grown to about 50 mm in length, then are ready to be removed from the tube, graded by size, and about 1800 abalone of about 50 mm in length are put back into the tube (not necessarily in the same tube). no) is loaded. The freshly loaded tubes are then submerged back into the aquaculture farm for about 12 months. After this time, the tubes are opened and the mature abalones, about 90 mm in diameter, are removed and prepared for sale on the market.

Referring to FIGS. 14-18 , a food dispenser for use with tubes 300 / 301 is shown in the form of a dispenser 400 . The dispenser 400 has a screw thread 402 and a cap 404 for engaging the feeding port 332 of the tube 300 (in a manner described below). As can be seen by comparing FIGS. 14 and 15 , the lid 404 can be operated to move between a closed position ( FIG. 14 ) and an open position ( FIG. 15 ). Once the lid 404 is open, the interior 406 of the dispenser 400 is accessible, as described in more detail below. The lid 404 is coupled to the dispenser 400 along a hinge 408 and is biased toward a generally open position, so that upon removal it quickly opens and moves into the position shown in FIG. 15 . Lid 404 has a number of tabs received within complementary recesses generally shown at 412 in dispenser 400 . The lip visible in the tab 410 interacts with a complementary protrusion (not shown) in the recess 412 to keep the lid 404 closed until the protrusion is moved, after which the lid 404 is opened by spring elasticity.

The length of time that the lid 404 remains closed can be determined by the user, for example immediately prior to engaging the filled dispenser 400 with the feeding port 332 of the tube 300/301.

Alternatively, the length of time the lid 404 remains closed can be controlled externally. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the dispenser 400 has a timer (not shown) and a rotary type that can rotate relative to the rest of the dispenser body to adjust the length of time until the lid 404 is opened. It includes an outer shell 414. In order to accurately set the period desired by the operator, a marker shown as 416 as a whole may be included. This indicia may indicate the number of hours, days or weeks until the lid 404 is opened, for example by a timer. Typically, the indicia will indicate a period of 1, 2, 3 or 4 weeks, but up to 5 weeks.

Referring now to FIG. 16 , both ends of a dispenser 400 are shown, which includes a recess (not numbered) and a handle 418 for easy portability. The dispenser 400 also includes a valve 420 through which air can be pumped into the interior 406 for reasons discussed below.

Referring now to FIG. 17 , cross-sectional views of the dispenser 400 are shown in order to provide a clearer view of the dispenser's interior 406 and working conditions. An internal chamber 422 is defined inside the dispenser 400 to contain the prey of the abalone and then rapidly dispense the prey. The inner chamber 422, in some embodiments, may include a plunger 424, which when the lid 404 is opened, moves rapidly downward (see FIG. 17), thereby pushing food therein into the chamber ( 422). As the food is deployed in the aquatic environment and water quickly flows into the chamber 422 once the lid 404 is opened, it is generally desirable to expel the food quickly so that ingress of water does not dispense all of the food. Plunger 424 may be actuated through any suitable mechanism (not shown), such as through a spring mechanism or through compressed air (eg, pumped through valve 420 ). In some embodiments, the plunger 424 may not be necessary; for example, if the inner chamber 422 is pressurized with air, when the lid 404 is opened, the air and accompanying prey of the abalone will flow into the chamber ( 422) can be discharged very quickly.

Referring now to FIG. 18 , dispenser 400 is shown screwed (with the cap open) into feeding port 332 of upper half 302 of tube 300 (as described above, tube (301) may be shown instead). As can be seen, the thickness of the threads 402 of the dispenser 400 is approximately equal to the thickness of the wall of the tube 300, providing a substantially equal height plane therebetween (this reduces biofouling). can help you). Also, in the open configuration, the lid 404 is positioned so as not to impede removal of the spent dispenser 400 from the tube 300 (eg, during testing and refilling). All the operator has to do is unscrew the dispenser 400 from the tube 300 and move it away from the tube 300 .

Since rollover tends to travel throughout the interior of the tube 300, it is generally necessary to protect the opening of the dispenser 400 from rollover located on or across it, which prevents the lid 404 of the dispenser from being opened. can make it not One way this can be achieved is to use a protective film 426 typically made of a mesh material that allows only water and food to pass through, not abalone. The protective film 426 can be made, for example, of the same type of stainless steel mesh as described above, over which abalone can crawl and can be washed in a similar manner. As can be seen here, the rim of the protective film 426 in contact with the inner wall of the tube 300 must be substantially flush with the surface, otherwise biofouling may occur at the raised rim. If the material from which the protective film 426 is made is sufficiently thin, the rim of the protective film 426 may be slightly recessed into the inner wall of the tube 300, for example, although this is not necessary.

In use, the operator selects an appropriate dispenser 400 filled with abalone and with the lid closed. The dispenser may, for example, be color coded to indicate the type or amount of food contained therein (eg, appropriate for a particular size of abalone) or to indicate a time delay before the lid 404 is opened. In the embodiment where the tube 300 has three feeding ports 332, the operator would select three appropriate dispensers 400 and screw them into each port. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the dispenser may be securely received in the feeding port through a snap fit, removable fit, friction fit, or the like.

Each dispenser 400 is provided with an openable lid, thus dispensing the food contained within the tube 300 at predetermined intervals, as described above. For example, a red dispenser can be opened after 1 week, an orange dispenser after 2 weeks, and a green dispenser after 3 weeks. One week after the lid of the green dispenser is opened, the tube 300 is scheduled to be removed from the water, checked for overturning in it, and the three spent dispensers 400 replaced with new dispensers 400.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown), dispenser 400 may include a signal receiver that opens lid 404 upon receipt of an appropriate signal. In this way, a signal from an external source (eg, a computer system managing an abalone farm) can be used to control the rate at which the abalone are fed within the tubes 300/310. Dispenser 400 may also include a transmitter (again, not shown) that transmits a signal when a predetermined event occurs (eg, lid 404 not being opened). Upon receipt of such a signal an appropriate alert is triggered which will, for example, feed the abalone and retrieve the tubes 300/301 as scheduled to replace a malfunctioning dispenser.

Referring now to FIGS. 19 and 20 , a portion of a sea farm for abalone farming is shown. As best shown in FIG. 19, the line 500 is anchored to the seabed at both ends using concrete blocks 502 (or other suitable means). A number of floats, shown generally as floats 504, are positioned along the length of the line 500 and hold the line 500 at a desired distance just below the surface of the water. A number of tubes 300 (or tubes 301 may be used in addition or instead) are tied to longlines 500 and suspended below the surface of the water. The line 500 can be of any length, in the illustrated embodiment it is about 100 m long. The six floats 504 carry the line 500, with four tubes 300 suspended between adjacent floats 504 (i.e., the line 500 holds a total of 20 tubes 300). They are approximately evenly spaced along the

The length of elevation from the anchor 502 to the first float 504 may be about 10 meters, but may be lengthened or shortened considering the tide and water depth. However, even if the rise is fixed and the farm contains other lines nearby (typically these lines are spaced about 30 m apart, parallel to each other), each line and its subordinate tubes will flow in the same direction as the tidal flow. by drifting towards it, it tends to prevent interference between them

Referring now to FIG. 20 , tube 300 is shown suspended from longline 500 via tethers 506 and 506, which tethers are holed 318 at the end of upper half 302 of tube 300. , 318). The tethers 506, 506 have a length that allows the tube 300 to hang about 1 m below the water surface, which has been found to be an ideal depth for abalone to grow. As will be described in more detail later, the tube 300 suspended from the longline 500 can be lifted by a boat at any time for maintenance, feeding and inspection of abalone without using a diver.

Referring now to FIGS. 21 and 22 , a boat 600 is shown having two retrieval devices 602 , 602 on one side. The boat 600 includes a substantially flat work area 604 in which a tube 300 (or 301) can be placed and opened to visually inspect and feed the abalone contained therein. can In some embodiments (not shown), a substantially flat work area may be provided in the form of a deck that can slide from the side of the boat 600, which is more easily attached to the tube 300 suspended adjacent to the boat. can help you access it.

The retrieval device 602, 602 lifts the line 500 and any tube 300 thereon. In use, the boat 600 is pulled alongside the line 500, the line is lifted (e.g. hooked, then the line is then mechanically or manually lifted), and (as described below) both retrieval devices ( 602, 602) interlocked. Once so positioned, the line 500 is held high alongside the boat 600 so that an operator above the boat can easily reach the tube 300 suspended from the line. Spacing between devices 602 and 602 at the ends of work area 604 ensures that boat 600 remains substantially parallel to mainline 500 regardless of any wind or water currents that may act on the boat.

Referring more specifically to FIG. 22 , one retrieval device 602 is shown in an enlarged view.

The retrieval device 602 includes an arm 606 that engages the line 500 . The arm 606 is coupled to the boat 600 by a cantilever pivot 608 so that it can be stowed when not in use (ie, the stowed device 602 will not overhang the side of the boat). The device 602 also includes a main arm engagement means 610 that engages the main arm 500 when in use. As is evident from the inner taper shape of the main line engagement means 610, the main line engagement means 610 is suitable for frictional engagement of the main line 500 when in use. The mainline engagement means 610 allows the boat 600 to engage the mainline 500 (using its own motor or via an electric or hydraulic motor (not shown) provided in one or both of the retrieval devices 602, 602). It moves along and is rotatable to service the tube 300 in the process.

The line engaging means 610 has a space for engaging the line 500 inside, and this space is defined by the inner disk member 612 and the outer disk member 614. An inner disk member 612 is disposed on its inner surface and has one or more raised members (generally 616) for frictional engagement of the longline 500 (i.e., for gripping the longline 500 and pulling the boat 600 along). ) may be included. The inner disk member 612 may also include rim-directed cogs, shown generally at 618 (see also FIG. 21 ), to receive and engage one or more tethers 506 during use. In this way, the teeth 618 provide a gap in which the tether 506 is received, thereby preventing the tube 300 (and any tether securing the float 504) from being engaged by the inner disk member 612. guarantee In this way, rotation of the inner disk member 612 causes the boat 600 to be pulled along the mainline 500.

The retrieval device 602 also has a line guide means 620, which in use is a curved rail that guides the line 500 towards the line engagement means 610. The longline guiding means 620 also guides the rope 506 for the tube 300 and the float 504 between the longline guiding means 620 and the boat 600 so that the rope 506 moves along the longline guiding means 620. ) to reduce the risk of entanglement in the The longline guiding means 620 extends forward toward the bow of the boat 600 and backward toward the stern.

In use, the boat 600 along with the retrieval device 602, 602 is sent out at periodic intervals to supply, maintain, inspect, or retrieve the tube 300 suspended from the longline 500. The boat 600 is pulled alongside the line 500, lifted up, and then engaged within the line engagement means 610, 610. As the boat 600 travels along the line 500, the tubes 300 suspended therein are brought out of the water, and the boat 600 is ready for inspection and/or maintenance of the stock and tubes (as seen in FIG. 21). It is lifted to a convenient location accessible from the rim of 600. If desired, the tube 300 can be positioned above the working area 604, where it can be opened to overturn and inspect the condition of the tube interior. The line engaging means 610 is hydraulically rotated to pull the boat 600 along the line 500 and repeat the process for each tube 300 on the line 500. Once all tubes 300 on a particular line 500 have been inspected, the boat 600 can be rotated and the process repeated for another line (not shown). In this way, it is possible to inspect a very large number of abalone containing tubes 300 without necessarily requiring divers or doing any heavy lifting. As is well known, it greatly increases aquaculture efficiency while significantly lowering the costs associated with marine abalone farming.

When the abalone contained therein completes the first or second sea growth period (described above), as these abalone must be properly graded, the boat 600 is also It may also be provided with a storage area (not shown) that can be used to store. In addition, this storage area can also be used to store freshly loaded tubes 300 containing abalone prepared for the first or second sea growth period of abalone.

As described herein, the present invention provides an improved abalone farming apparatus and method. Embodiments of the present invention provide a number of advantages over existing abalone farming apparatus and methods, some of which are summarized below.

Tanks of the present invention may be advantageous for the following reasons, for example:

· The provision of tanks in a modular form allows the structure of such tanks to be simplified;

• Concrete slabs manufactured in a controlled environment are often less prone to defects (eg cracks, deformations, etc.) than those manufactured on site;

· Modular tanks can be easily installed on stilts, eliminating the need for foundations.

The submersible container of the present invention may be advantageous for the following reasons, for example:

· Abalone is safely contained within it in an environment where predators are not likely to access it;

· It may be possible to inspect abalone stocks on a monthly basis;

· It may be easy to inspect, retrieve and deploy containers without the need for divers or other complex and expensive underwater equipment;

A folded member disposed in a suspended position inside the container greatly increases the container's overturning capacity, but allows the overturn to be easily removed from it when deployed.

Those skilled in the art will understand that many changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. All such variations are within the scope of the following claims.

While the foregoing description refers to a specific sequence of method steps, devices and pieces of devices, and their configurations for carrying out such methods in connection with a particular application, such details are provided for purposes of explanation only, and are not intended to be indicative of the present invention. It will be appreciated that the scope is not intended to be limited in any way.

In the following claims and foregoing description of the invention, the term "comprises" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", except where the context requires otherwise due to explicit language or necessary connotation, It is used in an inclusive sense to indicate the presence of the mentioned features, but does not preclude the presence or addition of additional features in various embodiments of the present invention.

Claims (36)

In a submersible container containing abalone,
a container wall defining an enclosure for abalone, the enclosure including an inner surface thereon to receive abalone;
one or more holes to allow water to flow through the enclosure when the container is submerged, but not to pass through the enclosure when capsized;
one or more feeding ports provided on the container wall;
comprising one or more food dispensers, each food dispenser comprising an abalone feeding receptacle and a mouth portion accommodated in each feeding port, wherein the one or more food dispensers are independently operated to distribute the food contained therein into the enclosure; A submersible container for abalone. 2. The method of claim 1 wherein the inner surface is above the container wall where abalone inhabits.
A submersible container for abalone containing multiple ribs. 2. The submersible container for holding an abalone according to claim 1, wherein the enclosure receives a member therein, the member providing an additional inner surface thereon to receive the abalone. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the member is substantially planar.
formula container. 4. The submersible container according to claim 3, wherein the member is folded to contain an abalone that fits within the enclosure. 4. The submersible container of claim 3, wherein the member is folded multiple times to define thereon a plurality of additional internal surfaces for receiving the abalone. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the member further comprises a plurality of additional surfaces being substantially mutual to each other.
A submersible that holds caps that fold in parallel and separated from each other by a distance that accommodates caps.
container. 2. The submersible container for holding abalone according to claim 1, wherein the container wall includes inner and outer walls and a cavity between the walls. The submersible container according to claim 8, wherein the cavity accommodates air, water or sand to control the buoyancy of the container. The submersible container according to claim 1, wherein the container holds substantially tubular abalone. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the one or more apertures are apertures at both ends of the container.
A submersible container containing abalone. The submersible container according to claim 1, wherein the hole comprises a net. 2. The submersible container of claim 1, wherein said one or more food dispensers are independently operated to dispense food contained therein into said enclosure at a predetermined time. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the container comprises two or more food dispensers;
Multiple food dispensers recall the food contained therein at different predetermined times.
A submersible container that holds abalone for dispensing into enclosures. The method of claim 1, wherein each dispenser includes a gate that moves from a closed position to an open position when a signal is received, and when the gate moves to an open position, the abalone food in the abalone feeding container is distributed. submersible container A food distributor used with the submersible container for holding abalone according to claim 1, comprising: a container for holding abalone food;
a mouth part accommodated in the feeding port of the container;
a gate that moves from a closed position to an open position upon receipt of a signal;
A food distributor in which the food contained in the abalone feeding container is distributed when the gate moves to the open position. 17. The food of claim 16, wherein the signal is generated at the end of a predetermined period of time.
divider. 17. The food dispenser of claim 16, wherein the signal is generated by an external source. As a method of farming abalone in an off-shore location,
placing the submersible container according to claim 1 on a longline anchored at the bottom of the sea;
Periodically retrieve each of one or more submersible containers and
Abalone aquaculture method comprising the step of inspecting abalone. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein any empty food dispenser is converted to a full food dispenser.
Abalone aquaculture method further comprising the step of replacing. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the one or more submersible containers are retrieved by a retrieval device that overhangs the side of the boat, the retrieval device lifting the container out of the water and removing the capsize contained therein. Abalone aquaculture method of placing on the deck of the boat for inspection and later returning the container to the water.


Lifting the container out of the water and overturning the container contained therein
placed on the deck of the boat to inspect, and later to lower the container into the water.
Abalone form method to return. delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete

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