NO343717B1

NO343717B1 - Specialized fish pen

Info

Publication number: NO343717B1
Application number: NO20171839A
Authority: NO
Inventors: Knut Vangen; Vidar Vangen
Original assignee: Knut Vangen; Vidar Vangen
Priority date: 2017-11-17
Filing date: 2017-11-17
Publication date: 2019-05-20
Also published as: WO2019098849A1; NO20171839A1

Description

TITLE:

[1] Specialized fish pen

TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION AND CLAIMS

[2] The present invention relates to a specialized fish pen for breeding fish in water. The specialized fish pen comprises an enclosing layer with an inside and outside; and an insulation layer comprising one or more sections; as defined in the preamble of claim 1.

[3] The present invention also relates to a method of harvesting fish from a specialized fish; as defined in preamble of claim 9.

THE STATE OF ART

[4] A common way to empty a sea pen for fish and/or its content of water is to arrange a hose or pipe connected to a pump down into the water inside the sea pen, and then slowly suck up the organisms as a mixture with water into the hose.

[5] When the pumping starts, the sea pen fabric will gradually collapse at the same rate as the water in the closed room is removed. A disadvantage is that one cannot control where the cloth folds, and sometimes the cloth will end up laying over and covering the intake to the hose/pipe and therefore render it non-functional despite there still remaining fish one wishes to remove from the sea pen. In regards to the state of the art we refer to US-3.653.358, US-4.231.873, NO-175.341 and US-4.798.168.

[6] In regards to these publications, US-3.653.358 discloses a container for raising fish, made of a flexible waterproof material. When the fish is harvested, or removed, the water is pumped out. When the water is removed, the bottom of the flexible material is raised, such that the fish gathers close to the surface. The fish may them be removed by the aid of a net, as is described in the US patents column 1, lines 62-65, column 2, lines 36-40 and in figure 2.

[7] A solution to remedy the above disadvantages, is shown in the Norwegian patent NO-339115 disclosing a method and arrangement for emptying of water a closed sea pen with a waterproof sea pen fabric. There is disclosed grid cage is arranged down in the volume of water inside the sea pen, and the water is withdrawn from the sea pen through a pipe or hose arranged inside of the grid cage, so that the sea pen fabric is gradually brought to squeeze up against the outside of the grid cage. The water is removed from the fish pen by means of a hose. The fish pen is of a rigid shape, where the intake for the hose is mounted centrally inside the grid cage to remove the fish and/or the water. The grid cage includes openings of a size such that any marine organisms inside the sea pen easily pass through the openings and into the grid cage, in order to be caught in the water and removed from the fish pen through the hose.

[8] Heat loss from the inside of a fish pen to the surroundings can be quite large; in particular for fish pens that are located in bodies of water. To counter act this various kinds of insulation can be added to the outside of the pen. Common materials are things such as foam, foam rubber, polystyrene, neoprene etc. One of the main problems with these is that they are difficult to install when the fish pen is in water.

From SE457499B a fish pen with a heat insulating wall comprising two layers with water in-between is known. The wall is not connected to the fish pen and this is not a closed fish pen that is insulated.

OBJECTIVES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION.

[9] Herein is described how to establish another method by which water and/or fish is removed from a close water filled fish pen.

[10] It is also described how to empty the enclosed pen volume by other means than just only pumping, or suck a water/fish-mixture into an emptying hose that is put down into the water.

[11] It is also described how to empty the enclosed pen volume by other means to provide for a more specialized structured pond design to obtain said further object of the invention, to be able to empty the pond by other means than only using a suction pump system.

[12] The objective of the present invention is to provide a means to facilitate the control (or change) of the water temperature in the enclosed water volume.

[13] In addition it is the objective of the present invention to facilitate in the addition of insulation to an existing fish pen.

THE PRESENT INVENTION.

[14] The fish pen according to the invention is characterized by that:

[15] the insulation layer (3) is connected to the outside of the enclosing layer (10) in one or more places;

[16] the insulation layer (3) further comprises: an inner insulation layer (33) and an outer insulation layer (32) and a plurality of sizing means (34) that is arranged in between the inner insulation layer (33) and the outer insulation layer (32); and

[17] the maximum thickness of the insulation layer (3) is determined by the length of the sizing means (34).

[18] The preferred embodiments of the inventive fish pen appear in the dependent claims 2-8.

[19] The method of the invention is characterized by the following steps:

[20] obtaining an insulation layer (3) in accordance with any of the proceeding claims;

[21] removing air from between the inner insulation layer (33) and the outer insulation layer (32); and thus

[22] collapsing the insulation layer (3) as the sizing means (34) collapse;

[23] installing the insulation layer on the existing fish pen;

[24] filling the insulation layer (3) with air until the sizing means (34) no longer allows the insulation layer to expand further.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[26] In the following description, preferred embodiments of the invention will be disclosed more in detail, and with reference to the following drawing figures:

[27] FIG 1A discloses a side view of a traditional enclosed fish pen.

[28] FIG 1B discloses a side view of the beginning stage of removal of fish from the fish pen.

[29] FIG 1C discloses a side view of an intermediate stage of removal of fish from the fish pen.

[30] FIG 1D discloses a side view of the final stage of removal of fish from the fish pen.

[31] FIG 1E discloses a cross sectional view of attaching the inner layer to the bottom of the specialized fish pen.

[32] FIG 1F discloses a cross sectional view of not attaching the inner layer to the bottom of the specialized fish pen.

[33] FIG 1G discloses a cross sectional view of using a inner layer weight on the inner layer.

[34] FIG 2A discloses a side view of further embodiment of the present invention.

[35] FIG 2B discloses a slice of a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention.

[36] FIG 2C discloses a side view of another embodiment of the present invention.

[37] FIG 2D discloses a perspective view of a cross section of a preferred embodiment of the insulation layer in the expanded position.

[38] FIG 2E discloses a perspective view of a cross section of a preferred embodiment of the insulation layer in the collapsed position.

[39] FIG 2F discloses a side cross sectional view of an embodiment a section of the insulation layer.

[40] FIG 3 discloses a side view of a bioreactor placed in the fish pen.

[41] FIG 4A discloses a top view of the fish pen.

[42] FIG 4B discloses a top view of the fish pen.

[43] FIG 4C discloses a top view of the fish pen.

[44] FIG 5 discloses a cross sectional view along the transverse axis of the fish grate during the preferred embodiment of the removal of fish from the fish pen.

LIST OF USED REFERENCE NUMERALS:

[45] 1 Specialized Fish Pen

[46] 10 Enclosing Layer

[47] 11 Float

[48] 12 Bridge

[49] 13 Fish Grating

[50] 14 Fish

[51] 15 Water

[52] 16 Traditional Enclosed Fish Pen

[53] 2 Inner Layer

[54] 21 Inner Space

[55] 22 Inner Layer Weight

[56] 220 Fish Herder

[57] 221 Fish Herder Body

[58] 222 Fish Herder Edge

[59] 3 Insulation Layer

[60] 31 Attachment Area

[61] 32 Outer Insulation Layer

[62] 33 Inner Insulation Layer

[63] 34 Sizing Means

[64] 35 Backing Material

[65] 36 Coating Substance

[66] 37 Inflation Area

[67] 4 Bioreactor

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[68] Using the attached drawings, the technical contents, and detailed descriptions, the present invention is described. Alternate embodiments will also be presented.

[69] The present invention is a specialized fish pen that has an insulation layer and a movable inner layer. The insulation layer is designed to provide increased stability and thermal insolation for the fish pen. The insulation to designed to allow existing fish pens to be retrofitted while they are still located in a body of water.

[70] The flexible inner layer can be expanded such that it reduces the volume of water in the fish pen. In this manner, fish are forced into the reduced volume of water. This increased fish density makes them easier to harvest (or remove from the pen). The present invention can be retrofitted onto an existing fish pen if desired. This invention is described in further detail below.

[71] Reference is made to FIG 1A. This discloses a side view of a version of a traditional enclosed fish pen 16. Note that this is simply an example of an enclosed fish pen. While the term “traditional enclosed fish pen” has been used though out, it is defined as any enclosed fish pen that can be modified into the present invention.

[72] Reference is also made to FIGs 1B-1D. These disclose where a flexible inner layer 2 is made to move during different parts of its operation cycle.

[73] A traditional enclosed fish pen 16 is comprised of water 15 that is enclosed by an enclosing layer 10. A float 11 helps hold traditional enclosed fish pen 16 at the desired height with respect to the water 15 level. A bridge 12 provides access to different parts of the fish pen 16 and provides extra structural support. It is possible to design a fish pen that does not have a float 11, particularly if the traditional enclosed fish pen 16 is on land. The fish 14 to be harvested reside inside the water 15.

[74] Described herein is a specialized fish pen 1. A movable inner layer 2 is located on the inside of the enclosing layer 10. During operation the inner layer 2 is moved away from the enclosing layer 10. This creates an inner space 21 in between the inner layer 2 and the enclosing layer 10. Preferably, the inner layer 2 is attached to the enclosing layer 10 near the top of the fish pen 1. However, it can be attached at other areas if a different shape when fully expanded is desired.

[75] The general behavior of the inner layer 2 during expansion of the inner space 21 will depend upon the configuration of the inner layer 2 that is located toward the bottom of the specialized fish pen 1. This will be discussed further in the disclosure associated with FIGs 1E – 1G.

[76] The movement of the inner layer 2 to a new position will reduce the volume of available water 15 that the fish 14 can swim in. Due to the arrangement of the inner layer 2, the fish 14 will be forced towards the middle of the specialized fish pen 1. The fish 14 are trapped in the middle; thereby making it easier to harvest the fish 14.

[77] In the preferred that a fish grating 13 is located in the middle of the specialized fish pen 1 and is used during the harvesting of the fish 14. The fish grating 13 has openings that are large enough to admit fish. The fish grating 13 prevents sections inner layer 2 from touching in the middle of the specialized fish pen 1. It also prevents the inner layer 2 from crushing the fish 14. This touching would hinder harvesting of any fish trapped below the area where different parts of the inner layer 2 touched. It is preferred that the grating is in the shape of a cylinder, with other shapes being valid.

[78] Reducing the volume of water 15 that the fish 14 can swim in means the fish density increases. A small reduction in volume due to the expansion of the inner space 21 and moving the inner layer 2 away from the outer layer 10 can cause a large reduction in the volume of water 15 in a specialized fish pen 1.

[79] In the case of the fish pens 1 and 16 depicted in the figures, the shape can be approximated by a paraboloid. As such, the volume is given as:

[80]

[81] where r is the radius and d is the depth.

[82] Thus a reduction in the radius of the water 15 in the specialized fish pen 1

leads to large reduction in the volume of the water 15 that the fish 14 can swim in and increase the fish density. If the diameter of the volume of water 15 of the specialized fish pen 1 is cut in half, the volume is reduced by a factor of 4, and the fish density will increase by 4. Note that this is a theoretical value and the actual operation value will be lower because the volume is not reduced as a perfect paraboloid. However, this is a significant improvement in the efficiency of harvesting the fish 14 because of the increased fish density. For example, during experimentation a reduction of the diameter of the water 15 to about half of its original value resulted in an increased fish density of 3.5.

[83] Any increase in fish density makes it easier to harvest the fish 14. As such, it is difficult to quantify an exact minimum value for how much the inner layer 2 should be moved and what the final desired volume of water 15 in the specialized fish pen 1 should be. It has no practical maximum value for the reduction of the volume of water 15. It must simply be large enough for the fish 14 to be harvested easier than before the inner space 21 was enlarged. This is an economic and operation consideration as is evaluated by one skilled in the art.

[84] A reduction of the radius of the water 15 in the specialized fish pen 1 to around 3⁄4, preferably around 1⁄2 or less, of the original radius would be particularly useful for increasing the fish density to significant levels. There would still be a positive effect for reductions of less than 3⁄4 of the original radius, but it may not be significant enough from a cost effective point of view. But any decreasing of the size of the available area for the fish to occupy will logically increase the density of the fish.

[85] FIGs 1E – 1G discloses a cross sectional view of attaching the inner layer to the bottom of the specialized fish pen using different methods. The general behavior of the inner layer 2 during expansion of the inner space 21, during harvesting, will depend upon the configuration of the inner layer 2 that is located toward the bottom of the specialized fish pen 1. In all of these figures, the inner layer 2 is attached to the specialized fish pen 1 toward the top (close to the float 11).

[86] FIG 1E discloses the situation where the inner layer 2 is attached to the bottom of the specialized fish pen 1. In this configuration, the inner space 21 between the enclosing layer 10 and the inner layer 2 is expanded.

Because of the fixed point at the bottom, the inner layer 2 will move toward the center and not lose contact with the enclosing layer 10. Standard sizes for fish pens in terms of the depth, radius of curvature of the sides, and the radius of the top of the specialized fish pen 1 mean that a shape close to that of an inverted cone will be formed inside the specialized fish pen 1. This is because the inner layer 2 will not generally be large enough (particularly at the top) to close very far into the middle of the specialized fish pen 1. If desired, this could be solved by making the inner layer 2 larger toward the top of the specialized fish pen 1 than the inside surface of the enclosing layer 10. This extra material for the inner layer could be stored in the shapes of folds, or accordion structures that would return to their original shape after the inner space 21 was adjusted back to its original size.

[87] FIG 1F discloses the situation where the inner layer 2 is not attached to the bottom of the specialized fish pen 1. In this configuration, as the inner space 21 between the enclosing layer 10 and the inner layer 2 is expanded, the bottom portion of the inner layer 2 will be forced toward the surface of the specialized fish pen 1. This creates a bowl shape, as opposed to the funnel shape of FIG 1E.

[88] FIG 1G discloses the situation where the inner layer 2 is not attached to the bottom of the specialized fish pen 1, but is attached to an inner layer weight 22. In this configuration, as the inner space 21 between the enclosing layer 10 and the inner layer 2 is expanded, the bottom portion of the inner layer 2 will not immediately move up will not move upwards until later in the harvesting process. It is preferred that the inner layer weight 22 is designed such that it has sufficient weight to aid higher in the specialized fish pen 1; as in FIG 1F. Instead, it in the formation of a volume of cylindrical water for the fish 14 to swim in, but no so much weight that it acts like a fixed point as in FIG 1E.

[89] It is desired that the final volume of water available to the fish is that of a vertical cylinder in order to accommodate the equipment that is best used to remove the fish 14 from the specialized fish pen 1.

[90] It is also preferable that the fish grating 13 is bottom heavy to aid in its vertical stability and to add any needed weight to the inner layer weight 22. It is preferred that the bottom of the fish grating 13 and the top of inner layer weight 22 are formed such that they fit into each other. They need not lock together.

[91] The movement of the inner layer 2 from the enclosing layer 10 can be accomplished a number of ways. The inner layer 2 can be pushed away from the enclosing layer 10 or it can be pulled away from the enclosing layer 10.

[92] A fluid (liquid or gas) can be transported into the inner space 21 between the enclosing layer 10 and the inner layer 2. This causes the inner layer to be pushed away from the enclosing layer 10.

[93] The inner layer 2 can also be moved away from the enclosing layer 10

through physical means. Cables could be attached to various points of the inner layer 2. A winch, or other lifting means, could then be used to pull up different cables and thus increase the size of the inner space 21.

[94] Another way to move the inner layer 2 away from the enclosing layer 10 is by adding a liquid with a lower density than the water inside the specialized fish pen 1, preferably water, to the specialized fish pen 1. This results in less outward pressure upon the part of the inner layer 21 that is in contact with the lower density liquid. This reduction of pressure will then allow the inner layer move toward the center of the specialized fish pen 1; increasing the size of the inner space 21. Higher density water can also be used. As it sinks it will cause parts of the inner layer 2 to be pulled away from the outer layer 10.

[95] The preferred way to move the inner layer 2 away from the enclosing layer 10 is by pumping the water 15 out of the middle of the specialized fish pen 1 and into the inner space 21; causing it to expand. After the fish have been moved out of the specialized fish pen 1, the water can be pumped from the inner space 21 and returned back into the middle of the specialized fish pen 1.

[96] For greater efficiency, a pipe or pump could be used to remove the water that is closest to the bottom of the specialized fish pen 1 first. This could be achieved through use of a pipe that is placed toward the bottom of the specialized fish pen 1 and then raised as the inner layer 2 moves the desired distance.

[97] There are many fluids that are available to cause the inner layer 2 to move.

Preferably, these fluids will have a lower density than water. From an operational standpoint the most readily available fluids will be air, saltwater, and freshwater or a mixture of these. However, many fluids that can be transported into the inner space 21 will work. Operational conditions and the requirements of the task will dictate which fluids are best to be used. The amount of fluid and pressure by which it must be moved into the inner space 21 will vary depending upon the requirements of the task. This fluid transport will usually be achieved through the use of one or more pumps. These parameters can easily be determined by one skilled in the art.

[98] Any of these solutions could be combined as needed to further efficiency of based upon operational or system constraints.

[99] While the fish grating 13 is the most for fish 14 harvesting, the present invention will function without it.

[100] It is possible to have a spacer between the enclosing layer 10 and the inner layer 2. The spacers would be located in the inner space 21 and make sure that it stays open to a degree even when there is no fluid that has been transported into the inner space 21 of the specialized fish pen 1. This could be useful if it takes too much force to make the inner layer 2 and the enclosing layer 10 separate due to surface adhesion.

[101] The inner layer 2 must be able to move away from the enclosing layer 10.

The inner layer 2 can be non-elastic and large enough to move the desired distance into the specialized fish pen 1. It can also be accomplished if the inner layer 2 is made of an elastic material that fits more snuggly to the enclosing layer 10. A combination of elastic and non-elastic construction of the inner layer 2 may be used.

[102] While it is preferable that the inner layer 2 reaches close to the center of the specialized fish pen 1, this is not a requirement. It simply needs to reach far enough that it aids the harvesting of fish 14 to the desired level.

[103] The inner layer 2 need not be attached directly to the enclosing layer 10. It could be attached to other components of the specialized fish pen 1.

[104] FIG 2A discloses a side view of further embodiment of the present invention. FIG 2B discloses a perspective view of the same embodiment. Water 15 is enclosed by an enclosing layer 10. A float 11 helps hold the specialized fish pen 1 at the desired height with respect to the water level. A bridge 12 provides access to different parts of the fish pen 1 and provides extra structural support. A fish cage 13 is arranged in the middle of the specialized fish pen 1. In this embodiment an insulation layer 3 is added to the outside of the enclosing layer 10. Details of the insulation layer 3 itself will be disclosed in the discussion of FIGs 2D and 2E.

[105] While it is possible for the insulation layer 3 to be a single sheet is placed around the outside of the specialized fish pen 1, it is preferable that it be broken up into numerous sheets. This allows for easier handling of the insulation layer 3 and increase the ease of retrofitting traditional enclosed fish pens 16. Also, in the event that a single portion of the insulation layer 3 failed, it is easier and cheaper to replace; in comparison to replacing an insulation layer 3 that is a single piece. To facilitate this, attachment areas 31 placed along the outside of the enclosing layer 10. Panels of the insulation layer 3 then attached to the attachment area 31. The attachment area 31 can be affixed to the enclosing layer 10 can also be accomplished using of welding, snaps, eyelets, grommets, Velcro, or other means. The exact method used to fix the attachment area 31 to the enclosing layer 10 will be decided by one skilled in the art for the particular task. These means will be different depending upon if it is desirable for the attachment areas 31 to be permanently affixed to the enclosing layer 10.

[106] The attachment area 31 is then fixed to the insulation layer 3. This attachment can occur by the same method or different method as the one used to attach the attachment area 31 to the enclosing layer 10. One skilled in the art can easily choose the method needed depending upon the exact specifications of the task.

[107] While FIG 2B shows that the attachment areas 31 are arranged longitudinal to the enclosing layer 10, this is not a requirement. The attachment areas 31 could just as easily be arranged in diagonal patterns, horizontal, or any other patterns. The exact nature of the attachment areas 31 will be decided by the task to be completed by one skilled in the art.

[108] FIG 2C discloses a side view of another embodiment of the present invention. This discloses an embodiment that is a combination of an insulation layer 3 and an inner layer 2. This figure shows that the two main embodiments of the invention can be used together. In an alternate embodiment the insulation layer 3 is directly attached to the inner layer 2. This makes the system simpler and cheaper because there are now only two layers.

[109] FIGs 2D and 2E disclose a perspective view of a cross section of a preferred embodiment of the insulation layer 3 in the expanded and collapsed positions. The insulation layer 3 is comprised of an inner insulation layer 33 that is primarily in contact with the enclosing layer 10. The outer insulation layer 32 is joined to the inner insulation layer 33 by a sizing means 34. Discussion of how the enclosing layer 10 is attached to the inner insulation layer 33 at the attachment areas 31 was presented previously.

[110] The sizing means 34 prevents the distance between the inner insulation layer 33 and the outer insulation layer 32 from increasing larger than desired. This is accomplished by the sizing means being inelastic or rigid when the desired distance between the inner insulation layer 33 and the outer insulation layer 32 is achieved.

[111] In the preferred embodiment, the sizing means 34 comprises a number of threads, fibers, or filaments. Further, in the preferred embodiment, the sizing means 34 allows the inner insulation layer 33 and the outer insulation layer 32 to collapse toward each other. In other words, it is preferable that the sizing means 34 does not greatly hinder the movement of the inner and outer insulation layer 33, 32 from coming towards each other. A sizing means 34 comprising polyester threads are preferred.

[112] During installation of the insulation layer 3, all/most of the air is removed from the area between the inner insulation layer 33 and the outer insulation layer 32. This causes the inner and outer insulation layers 33, 32 to move toward each other and the insulation layer 3 to collapse. After this air removal, the insulation layer 3 is easier to handle because the inner and outer insulation layers 33, 32 will remain stuck together. In this way, the insulation layer 3 will be easier to move (and be thinner) than if this step was not performed. The insulation layer 3 can then be moved into the desired position. After the insulation layer 3 has been affixed to the enclosing layer, the insulation layer 3 is then inflated. This causes the distance to increase between the inner and outer insulation layer 33, 32 until the maximum distance allowed by the sizing means 34. When the insulation layer 3 is of the desired thickness, the inflation is stopped and the insulation layer 3 sealed. Preferably, the insulation layer 3 can be reflated if needed.

[113] Using an inflatable insulation layer 3 provides extra structural support to the specialized fish pen 1. After it is installed and inflated, it will help the enclosing layer 10 to hold its shape in the face of deformation forces. These forces will come primarily from the water and wind, but can also come from operational or accident sources. The insulation layer 3 will also provide protection from physical impact by acting as a kind of armor. Impacts to the insulation layer 3 will be absorbed by it and not transfer to the enclosing layer and the primary structures of the specialized fish pen 1.

[114] It is preferable for the insulation layer 3 to be thin when in the expanded position. This thickness is preferably between 0.5 and 15cm, more preferably between 1 and 10 cm, and most preferably between 1 and 5cm. This is for reasons of cost efficiency, insulation efficiency, and buoyancy management. There may be little extra insulation effect when making the insulation layer 3 thicker, but it adds extra material costs and more difficulty in installation. Additionally, if the insulation layer 3 is filled with air, the thicker the insulation layer 3, the more buoyancy that must be adjusted in the rest of the specialized fish pen 1.

[115] The sizing means 34 must be strong enough to withstand the forces required when inflating the insulation layer 3. This will depend upon the size of the specialized fish pen 1 and the density of the surrounding water. This is something that one skilled in the art is capable of performing. While the preferable embodiment of the sizing means 34 is polyester threads, other thin and flexible materials could work. These include rubber, natural fibers, PVC threads, Kevlar fibers, etc. The main similarity of these types of sizing means 34 is that they are thin in both cross sectional directions and collapse easily if the inner and outer insulation layers 33, 32 collapse towards each other.

[116] While it is preferable that the sizing means 34 between the inner and outer insulation layers 33, 32 are thin (such as threads, filaments, or fibers) these are not the only options. Ribbons could be used instead if more strength was needed to hold the insulation layer 3 together. These are thicker than threads, but still fold easily. It would also be possible to use collapsible plastic strips between the inner and outer insulation layers 33, 32. These could be preferable if extra structural support was needed in addition to extra strength. Hinges could also be used if desirable. This may be the case in materials that are very stiff and require a different type of mechanical solution to allow for separation of the inner and outer insulation layers 33, 32.

[117] While it is preferred that the insulation layer 3 can be inflated and deflated several times, this is not necessary for the invention to function. It may be preferable for the distance between the inner and outer insulation layers 33, 32 to be fixed after installation. This may be the case if it was felt that there was need more support against rough sea conditions. In such a case, it may be an advantage of a sizing means 34 that could lock into place after inflation. An example of this are rods that can fold, but once fully unfolded (i.e. after the insulation layer 3 is fully inflated), lock in the extended position.

[118] It is most efficient if there is as much contact as possible between the enclosing layer 10 and the inner insulation layer 33. To meet this, the insulation layer 3 will normally be designed to fit the shape of the enclosing layer 10 as well as possible. However, gaps between parts (or all) of the inner insulation layer 33 and the enclosing layer 10 are still acceptable. A layer of water in between these two layers 10, 33 can act partially as a wetsuit does; particularly if the water trapped does not circulate to a large degree. Such a circulation could cause an undesirable amount of heat loss from between the enclosing layer 10 and the insulation layer 3. In the end, this is more of a cost/benefit analysis than an invention limitation.

[119] While it is preferable that air be used to inflate the insulation layer 3, there are other options. Foams and other hardening agents can be inserted into the insulation layer 3. This could be useful in the situation where it was determined that a foam would give more protection to the specialized fish pen 1. The insulation layer 3 could be filled with water. This could be advantageous in a situation where zero buoyancy, or close to it, was a requirement. The insulation layer 3 could be filled with other gases than air in cases where a higher insulation coefficient and/or a lower amount of buoyancy is desirable. Examples of such gasses are argon, nitrogen, krypton, xenon, etc.

[120] While it is preferable for the insulation layer 3 to be refilled as little as possible, it is still possible to apply regular or continuous refilling. This could be an advantage if one of the parts of the insulation layer 3 were damaged. It may also be an advantage if used in coordination with aeration of the water inside the fish pen.

[121] If a user does not want to perform the step of removing some or all of the air, the insulation layer 3 can still be installed, but it will likely require more effort and time to do so. In the case of underwater installation, it is much easier to perform if the air removal has been performed, due to buoyancy of an inflated insulation layer 3 being high.

[122] FIG 2F discloses a side cross sectional view of an embodiment a section of the insulation layer 3. This discloses an in insulation layer 3 that is comprised of an outer insulation layer 32 and an inner insulation layer 33 that are connected by a sizing means 34. The inner and outer insulation layers 33, 32 are comprised of a backing material 35 to which a coating substance 36 is applied or affixed. Air, or other substances, are introduced into the insulation layer through the inflation at the inflation area 37.

[123] In the preferred embodiment, the backing material 35 is a woven type of material. This can be synthetic or of a natural fiber. The weaving helps form the section of the insulation layer 3 into the correct shape. It also helps in case the outer or inner insulation layer 32, 33 is damaged; as the weaving can have cut resistance. However, another flexible and strong material could be chosen instead for the backing material 35; such as a knitted material.

[124] In the preferred embodiment, the backing material 35 is coated with a coating substance 36. This coating substance 36 provides more strength and rigidity. It also insures that the insulation layer is (or almost) airproof and can survive in the marine and outdoor environment. This can be accomplished with a number of different coatings, but PVC and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) are preferred for their proofing ability to prevent air inside the insulation layer 3 from escaping. These also add flexibility, and resistance to corrosion from the environment.

[125] It is possible for a single material to serve both the purpose of the backing material 35 and coating substance. In this case, the two layers shown on the top and bottom of FIG 2F would be replaced by a single layer. This may be an advantage if it is more cost effective with a single material, rather than a coating on a material. It is also possible for the inner and outer insulation layer 33, 32 is comprised of more than just a backing material 35 and a coating substance 36. This could be advantageous if a number of material requirements could not be met by two materials.

[126] It is possible to have stiffening rods or strips inside, on the outer surface of the inner or outer insulation layer 33, 32, or on the edges of edges of the insulation layer 3. These stiffening elements could be of metal or plastic. Their function would be to help the insulation layer 3 hold a desired shape. A common example of such a stiffener would be a frame of metal or plastic that lays along the inside of the insulation layer 3 at the edges that acts like a frame. This could be particularly advantageous to make sections of the insulation layer 3 easier to handle during installation and repair.

[127] While the inflation area 37 is shown in FIG 2F is a single area, this is only an illustrative example. The inflation area 37 can be a single valve, a series of valves, or other well understood structures to allow for the insertion of gasses (or fluids) into the inflation area 37 and resist those same gasses escaping.

[128] FIG 3 discloses a side view of an immersed bioreactor 4 placed in the middle of the specialized fish pen 1.

[129] FIG 4A – 4C disclose a top view of an embodiment during harvesting operations. This shows a specialized fish pen 1 with an inner layer 2. The float 11 is attached to the top or the top side of the enclosing layer 10. This figure also shows a bridge 12 extending over the water to the center of the specialized fish pen 1. These FIGs show that the inner layer 2 is in fact divided into several parts. Each of these parts is connected to the adjacent inner layer 2 pieces on each side. During operation the inner layer 2 approaches the center of the specialized fish pen 1. This reduces the available space where the fish 14 (not shown) can swim; increasing fish density.

[130] The fish grating 13 is located in the middle of the specialized fish pen 1.

Note, the fish grating 13 does not have to be in the center as shown here. Even though it is preferable, the volume formed by the fully expanded inner space 21 does not need to be in the middle. By dividing the inner layer 2 into different sized parts, using different materials, different attachment points for different areas of the inner layer, the area that the fish 14 are forced into could be located anywhere that was desired by one skilled in the art.

[131] It is preferred that the inner layer 2 extends radially toward the longitudinal axis of the specialized fish pen 1. There is no requirement that all the sections of the inner layer 2 extend in the same direction and same distance. An example of this would be where one section of the inner liner 2 expands from the bottom of the specialized fish pen 1 upwards by a quarter of its depth. Then a second section of the inner liner 2 could perform in the preferred manner; extending radially toward the center of the specialized fish pen 1.

[132] It is also possible to design the inner layer 2 in such a way that it will extend out to the center of the specialized fish pen 1, without using or touching the fish grating 13. There is no requirement that in the case of multiple sections of the inner layer 2 all sections are made of the same material, have the same dimensions, or are made in the same shape.

[133] While the enclosing 10, insulation 3, and the inner 2 layers have been shown as having a paraboloid shape, it is not a requirement. This is simply a standard shape. If, for design reasons, the fish pen had a different shape, one skilled in the art would be able to easily modify the present invention to function with a different shape.

[134] FIG 5 discloses a cross sectional view along the transverse axis of the fish grate 13 during the preferred method of the harvesting process. Here a fish herder 220 is located inside of the fish grate 13. A fish herder body 221 has a fish herder edge 222 extends from the edge of the fish herder body 221 to make contact with the fish grate 13. A winch, or other driving means, would be attached to the fish herder body 221 and bring it up through the fish grate 13. In this way, fish would be encouraged to swim away from the fish herder 220 and toward removal from the specialized fish pen 1 (not shown).

[135] The purpose of the fish herder edge 222 is to maintain contact with the inside part of the fish grate 13 as well as possible. This is accomplished by using a flexible material and/or shape that won’t hurt the inside of the fish grate 13. The diameter of the fish grate 13 will change throughout its length. This can be due to design, environmental factors, or just wear and tear from use. It is preferred that the width of the fish herder 220 is at least as wide as the widest inside part of the fish grate 13. The fish herder edge 222 is flexible enough such that it can change width as it travels along the inside of the fish grate 13. This can be a set of flexible bristles, rods, branches, ribbons, or other such shapes. It is preferred that water is able to pass through the fish herder 220.

[136] Preferably the fish herder 220 is a removable piece of the inner layer weight 22. The edge of the fish grate 13 would rest upon part of the inner layer weight 22 as the fish herder 220 traveled through the fish grate 13.

[137] While “harvest” has been used throughout this document, the method can be used to simply remove fish from the specialized fish pen 1.

[138] Please note that “step of” is not to be interpreted as “step for”. By “comprised of”, “comprising”, “comprises” etc. we are referring to an open set and by “consisting of” we are referring to a closed set.

Claims

1. A specialized fish pen (1) that comprises:

an enclosing layer (10) with an inside and outside; and

an insulation layer (3) comprising one or more sections;

CHARACTERIZED in that:

the insulation layer (3) is connected to the outside of the enclosing layer (10) in one or more places;

the insulation layer (3) further comprises: an inner insulation layer (33) and an outer insulation layer (32) and a plurality of sizing means (34) that is arranged in between the inner insulation layer (33) and the outer insulation layer (32); and

the maximum thickness of the insulation layer (3) is determined by the length of the sizing means (34).

2. The specialized fish pen (1) according to claim 1 CHARACTERIZED in that the enclosing layer (10) comprises a group of one more attachment areas (31) arranged on the surface between the enclosing layer (10) and the inner insulation layer (33) that attach the insulation layer (3) to the enclosing layer (10).

3. The specialized fish pen (1) according to any of the previous claims CHARACTERIZED in that the inner insulation layer (33) and/or the outer insulation layer (32) is comprises a airproof material, preferably rubber, PVC, or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

4. The specialized fish pen (1) according to any of the previous claim CHARACTERIZED in that the inner insulation layer (33) and/or the outer insulation layer (32) further comprises a backing material (35) that has a waterproof coating substance (36); said substance is preferably PVC or PTU.

5. The specialized fish pen (1) according to any of the previous claims CHARACTERIZED in that the insulation layer (3) has a maximum thickness of between 0.5 and 15 cm, preferably between 1 and 10 cm, and most preferably between 1 and 5cm.

6. The specialized fish pen (1) according to any of the previous claims CHARACTERIZED in that the sizing means (34) comprises a number of threads, fibers, filaments, ribbons, rods, hinges; preferably threads.

7. The specialized fish pen (1) according to any of the previous claims CHARACTERIZED in that the sizing means (34) is made of rubber, natural fibers, PVC threads, and polyester; preferably polyester.

8. The specialized fish pen (1) according to any of the previous claims CHARACTERIZED in that the sizing means (34) allows for the outer insulation layer (32) and the inner insulation layer (33) to collapse partially or fully together.

9. Method of insulating a traditional enclosed fish pen (16), CHARACTERIZED by:

a) obtaining an insulation layer (3) in accordance with any of the proceeding claims;

b) removing air from between the inner insulation layer (33) and the outer insulation layer (32); and thus

c) collapsing the insulation layer (3) as the sizing means (34) collapse;

d) installing the insulation layer on the existing fish pen;

e) filling the insulation layer (3) with air until the sizing means (34) no longer allows the insulation layer to expand further.