US20230175730A1 - Atmospheric moisture condensing and hydroponic germination - Google Patents
Atmospheric moisture condensing and hydroponic germination Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20230175730A1 US20230175730A1 US18/075,296 US202218075296A US2023175730A1 US 20230175730 A1 US20230175730 A1 US 20230175730A1 US 202218075296 A US202218075296 A US 202218075296A US 2023175730 A1 US2023175730 A1 US 2023175730A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- water
- ambient air
- moisture
- amount
- various embodiments
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 230000035784 germination Effects 0.000 title claims description 7
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Chemical compound O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 63
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 23
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 18
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 26
- 239000012080 ambient air Substances 0.000 claims description 25
- 238000005057 refrigeration Methods 0.000 claims description 19
- 239000002826 coolant Substances 0.000 claims description 10
- 238000001914 filtration Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000003750 conditioning effect Effects 0.000 abstract description 9
- 238000000605 extraction Methods 0.000 abstract description 7
- 230000001143 conditioned effect Effects 0.000 abstract description 5
- 239000003570 air Substances 0.000 description 26
- 239000003651 drinking water Substances 0.000 description 5
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 235000012206 bottled water Nutrition 0.000 description 4
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- 241001465754 Metazoa Species 0.000 description 3
- 238000003306 harvesting Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 3
- 241000238631 Hexapoda Species 0.000 description 2
- 239000004904 UV filter Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000012806 monitoring device Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 241000894006 Bacteria Species 0.000 description 1
- 241000196324 Embryophyta Species 0.000 description 1
- 241001124569 Lycaenidae Species 0.000 description 1
- 241000209504 Poaceae Species 0.000 description 1
- 241000607479 Yersinia pestis Species 0.000 description 1
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000013459 approach Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 1
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000020188 drinking water Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000013601 eggs Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000003628 erosive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000001704 evaporation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 210000003608 fece Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000013505 freshwater Substances 0.000 description 1
- 244000144972 livestock Species 0.000 description 1
- 239000010871 livestock manure Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000008520 organization Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009304 pastoral farming Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010248 power generation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007226 seed germination Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001960 triggered effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003809 water extraction Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F13/00—Details common to, or for air-conditioning, air-humidification, ventilation or use of air currents for screening
- F24F13/22—Means for preventing condensation or evacuating condensate
- F24F13/222—Means for preventing condensation or evacuating condensate for evacuating condensate
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
- A01G31/00—Soilless cultivation, e.g. hydroponics
- A01G31/02—Special apparatus therefor
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
- A01G9/00—Cultivation in receptacles, forcing-frames or greenhouses; Edging for beds, lawn or the like
- A01G9/24—Devices or systems for heating, ventilating, regulating temperature, illuminating, or watering, in greenhouses, forcing-frames, or the like
- A01G9/246—Air-conditioning systems
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
- A01G9/00—Cultivation in receptacles, forcing-frames or greenhouses; Edging for beds, lawn or the like
- A01G9/24—Devices or systems for heating, ventilating, regulating temperature, illuminating, or watering, in greenhouses, forcing-frames, or the like
- A01G9/247—Watering arrangements
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F3/00—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems
- F24F3/12—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling
- F24F3/14—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by humidification; by dehumidification
- F24F2003/144—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by humidification; by dehumidification by dehumidification only
- F24F2003/1446—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by humidification; by dehumidification by dehumidification only by condensing
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F13/00—Details common to, or for air-conditioning, air-humidification, ventilation or use of air currents for screening
- F24F13/22—Means for preventing condensation or evacuating condensate
- F24F13/222—Means for preventing condensation or evacuating condensate for evacuating condensate
- F24F2013/227—Condensate pipe for drainage of condensate from the evaporator
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F13/00—Details common to, or for air-conditioning, air-humidification, ventilation or use of air currents for screening
- F24F13/22—Means for preventing condensation or evacuating condensate
- F24F2013/228—Treatment of condensate, e.g. sterilising
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02A—TECHNOLOGIES FOR ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02A20/00—Water conservation; Efficient water supply; Efficient water use
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02A—TECHNOLOGIES FOR ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02A40/00—Adaptation technologies in agriculture, forestry, livestock or agroalimentary production
- Y02A40/10—Adaptation technologies in agriculture, forestry, livestock or agroalimentary production in agriculture
- Y02A40/25—Greenhouse technology, e.g. cooling systems therefor
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02P—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES IN THE PRODUCTION OR PROCESSING OF GOODS
- Y02P60/00—Technologies relating to agriculture, livestock or agroalimentary industries
- Y02P60/20—Reduction of greenhouse gas [GHG] emissions in agriculture, e.g. CO2
- Y02P60/21—Dinitrogen oxide [N2O], e.g. using aquaponics, hydroponics or efficiency measures
Definitions
- potable water may be harvested from the atmosphere and distributed using some of the techniques discussed herein.
- FIG. 1 is a view of an illustrative embodiment of an Atmospheric Moisture Condensing System (AMCS).
- AMCS Atmospheric Moisture Condensing System
- FIG. 2 is an illustrative technique using the AMCS.
- FIGS. 3 - 6 are views of an illustrative AMCS.
- FIG. 7 is a view of an illustrative hydroponic germination fodder system.
- FIG. 8 is an illustrative technique using the hydroponic germination fodder system of FIG. 7 .
- potable water may be harvested from the atmosphere and distributed using some of the techniques discussed herein.
- Atmospheric Water Harvesters are machines that use a refrigeration principle to lower the temperature of any given unit of ambient air—thus causing moisture to condense out of this air onto a manageable surface for collection. This concept has been used in prior designs; however the efficiency has typically been low by energy rating standards.
- FIG. 1 shows an illustrative embodiment of an Atmospheric Moisture Condensing System (AMCS) 100 .
- AMCS 100 may include an atmospheric intake and conditioning portion 102 .
- the atmospheric intake and conditioning portion 102 may comprise an intake filter 104 and refrigeration coil assembly 106 .
- the refrigeration coil assembly 106 may be functionally coupled to a compressor system 108 .
- the atmospheric intake and conditioning portion 102 may include ducting 110 to direct, accommodate, and contain airflow through the atmospheric intake and conditioning portion 102 .
- the atmospheric intake and conditioning portion 102 may include sensors 112 to monitor conditions in the system.
- sensors 112 may be configured to monitor one or more of air velocities, directional airflow, temperature, humidity, reservoir levels, among other conditions. Additionally or alternatively, sensors 112 may be configured to monitor various conditions continuously, intermittently, and/or based on a triggering condition. Additionally or alternatively, sensors 112 may be configured to operate and monitor various conditions independently of other sensors 112 . Additionally or alternatively, sensors 112 may be communicatively connected to control system 114 . Additionally or alternatively, sensors 112 may be connected with control system 114 using wired or wireless communication technology.
- AMCS 100 may include an extraction portion 116 .
- the extraction portion 116 may comprise plates 118 , for example, cool plates.
- condensing plates 118 may be stainless steel or other suitable material.
- condensing plates 118 may be thermally coupled to refrigeration coil assembly 106 directly or through a thermal bridge 120 .
- condensing plates 118 not being thermally coupled to refrigeration coil assembly 106 through a thermal bridge 120 or directly.
- condensing plates 118 may be situated adjacent to each other in a distributed orientation.
- Various embodiments contemplate a 1 ⁇ 4′′ spacing between individual condensing plates.
- condensing plates 118 may include a suitable number of plates sized for a desired production.
- the condensing plates 118 may include between 120 and 140 plates and may be approximately 20′′ ⁇ 30′′ of 20 gauge stainless steel.
- the extraction portion 116 may also include ducting 122 that may direct a flow from an inlet 124 across the condensing plates 118 to an outlet duct 126 . Additionally or alternatively, flow through the ducts may be effected by use of a fan system 128 .
- AMCS 100 may include a collection portion 130 .
- collection portion 130 may comprise a reservoir pan 132 .
- reservoir pan 132 may be in fluid communicate with a liquid management system 134 .
- liquid management system 134 may include a pump system configured to move the extracted liquid from the reservoir pan 132 .
- the extracted liquid may be moved through various filter systems including, but not limited to UV filter, activated charcoal filters, among others. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that the extracted liquid may be moved though the liquid management system 134 to another holding tank, distributed, bottled, or otherwise used.
- an illustrative system may comprise a conditioning portion comprising one or more cooling coils configured to allow air to pass through the cooling coils to reduce a temperature of the air as well as an extraction portion coupled to the conditioning portion, configured to receive conditioned air from the conditioning portion, the extraction portion comprising a plurality of condensing plates configured to cause a portion water vapor of the conditioned air to collect and form liquid water on the plurality of condensing plates.
- system may also include a reservoir coupled to the extraction portion configured to receive collected liquid water from the plurality of condensing plates.
- system may also include an air flow management system configured to direct intake air across a portion of the plurality of condensing plates and to direct exhaust air from the system.
- the system may also include a liquid management system configured to move the extracted liquid from the reservoir pan. Additionally or alternatively, the liquid management system may be further configured to move the extracted liquid through one or more filters.
- the one or more filters may include one or more of a UV filter, an activated charcoal filter, or a combination thereof, among others.
- FIG. 2 shows an illustrative water extraction technique 200 .
- various embodiments contemplate that filtered ambient air 136 is drawn into the AMCS 100 by fans, for example, axial fans.
- the air 136 passes through the refrigeration coil assembly 106 .
- the coolant may expand and remove heat from the air 136 .
- the air 136 is then cooled to a sufficient level and then travels vertically downward between condensing plates 118 .
- the larger droplets 138 are collected in the reservoir pan 132 , where, in some embodiments, before dropping into the reservoir pan 132 , the droplets 138 may pass through a sieve/screen. This screen not only catches any foreign debris that might have inadvertently passed through the condensing plates 118 , but may also acts as a substantial air barrier to help prevent the exhausting air from re-evaporating water back into the air.
- temperature and humidity parameters for this process may be closely monitored by use of sensors 112 and fan speed controllers.
- the refrigeration system may be adjusted to a specific range of cooling so that the dew point can be manipulated precisely to match the ambient air conditions.
- the exhausted system air may be ducted to the outside, or may be recovered for various needs such as zone cooling, as desired. This exhausted air is cool and dry when compared to the incoming ambient air.
- the water filtration system may include float units and an inline strainer filter, a diaphragm pump, a cartridge filter unit, a UV lamp, manual diverting valves, and solenoids for dispensing.
- liquid management system 134 starts the flow of fresh water through the filter and UV system. This circulation may continue until the water is removed from the system or an additional monitoring control sends it to an outside reservoir.
- control system 114 may also control the fans and cooling system.
- control system 114 may be connected to sensors 112 as well as sensors outside of unit.
- atmospheric conditions may be monitored, a remote reservoir level may be monitored.
- control system 114 may be coupled to a predictive system that may determine a predicted demand or predicted atmospheric conditions. For example, a predicted demand may trigger the AMCS to begin generation sufficiently prior to the demand to be able to meet it. Additionally or alternatively, the AMCS may be triggered to begin generating since predicted atmospheric conditions may cause the unit to operate less effectively.
- an illustrative technique may comprise extracting a first amount of heat from a coolant and transferring the coolant to a refrigeration coil assembly.
- the first amount of heat may be extracted from a coolant by extracting the heat through a heat exchanger.
- various embodiments contemplate transferring a second amount of heat to the coolant from the refrigeration coil assembly and a plurality of cooling plates. Further, various embodiments contemplate receiving ambient air with a first level of moisture and passing ambient air through the refrigeration coil assembly and the plurality of cooling plates. Further, based at least in part on a difference of heat between the refrigeration coil assembly and the plurality of cooling plates and the ambient air, removing a first amount of moisture from the ambient air reducing the ambient air to a second level of moisture, and collecting at least a portion of the removed first amount of moisture in liquid form.
- the removing the first amount of moisture may include reducing a temperature of the ambient air to below a temperature threshold causing moisture from the ambient air to condense and liquify on the plurality of cooling plates.
- the temperature threshold may be a dew point of the ambient air.
- the removed first amount of moisture in liquid form may include collecting liquid droplets through gravity.
- FIGS. 3 - 6 show views of an additional embodiment of an AMCS.
- FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of AMCS 300 .
- FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of an AMCS 400 .
- FIG. 5 shows a cutaway view of AMCS 300 .
- FIG. 6 shows a cutaway view of AMCS 300 with the plane of intersection rotated approximately perpendicular to the plane of intersection shown in FIG. 5 .
- FIG. 7 shows an illustrative fodder system 700 .
- the fodder system 700 may be coupled to or paired with a AMCS as discussed above.
- fodder is an animal feed which is live, recently harvested plants, leaves, grasses, or combinations thereof.
- fodder system 700 leverages innovative techniques in order to produce feed at accelerated growing rates with minimal or reduced cost input to allow for a regular, for example, daily output—normally impossible with natural growing conditions.
- Another major benefit may be that this type of feeding system may greatly minimize “animal caused erosion” impact due to over grazing of pasture land. Feeding areas for livestock may be located in concentrated areas near compounds and farm centers. Manure may be managed within a specific area and reused as needed on pastures.
- fodder system 700 While fodder type feed has been available for farmers and ranchers in the past, fodder system 700 represents a unique approach which offers versatility as well as mobility. Additionally, it may be used with AMCS, as discussed above, to provide a constant or regular supply of input water in areas where fodder normally could not be grown.
- fodder system 700 may include a weather/environmental controlled shelter unit 702 , for example, aluminum, which may be fully portable with various techniques such towing or helicopter lifting.
- Optional towing axles may be attached directly to unit with a drawbar type tongue.
- standardized sizes may be used, for example, 6′X9′ and 7′X12′ (nominal outside dimensions).
- fodder system 700 may include a climate control system 704 for heating or cooling as needed. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that fodder system 700 may include an electrically driven monitoring and control systems 706 , a filtration/pump system 708 / 710 for reuse of water within the growing module and timers for controlled, for example, consistent or tailored, watering cycles. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that fodder system 700 may include special product growing lighting system 712 .
- fodder system 700 may include a shelving and growing tray system 714 , designed with a slope 716 to allow for proper drainage and growth cycles of fodder 718 . Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that fodder system 700 may include a remote monitoring device 720 for providing status information including alerting an operator of alarm issues. It is understood that the remote monitoring device 720 may comprise a wired or a wireless connection or a combination thereof to portions of the fodder system 700 , for example, weather/environmental controlled shelter unit 702 .
- the fodder system 700 may include a water distribution system 722 which may be coupled to control systems 706 to selectively distribute water 724 into one or more fodder trays 726 .
- a water distribution system 722 which may be coupled to control systems 706 to selectively distribute water 724 into one or more fodder trays 726 .
- the water 724 will migrate through the fodder trays 726 allowing the fodder 718 to receive water 724 , where the surplus of water 724 is received at catch basin 728 .
- the water may be transferred to a filtration/pump system 708 / 710 for reuse of water 724 .
- a control valve system 730 coupled to control systems 706 to selectively add water from an AMCS as noted above.
- a hydroponic germination fodder system may include an environmentally controlled shelter unit with a climate control system configured to control the climate.
- climate control system configured to control the climate.
- various embodiments contemplate a water filtration and pump system configured to condition water and move the water selectively in the system. For example, the water filtration and pump system may feed a plurality of trays configured to hold grain and pass water across the grain from a first region of a tray to a second region of the tray.
- a shelving system may be configured to hold the plurality of trays at one or more angles aiding the water passing through the trays. For example, trays may be held at an angle sufficient for water to pass from one end to another end or from one side to another side based on gravity. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that they system may have a catch basin configured to receive water collected from the plurality of trays that is not soaked up by the grain as it grows.
- the system includes a monitor and control system configured to monitor and control one or more of the movement of water, conditions of the environmentally controlled shelter unit, or the climate control system. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that they system may also include a remote monitoring system configured to transmit status information to a user or system.
- the system may include a growing light system configured to provide a controlled light source to the grain to aid in growing. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that the system may include an atmospheric moisture condensing system configured to provide additional water to the system.
- FIG. 8 shows an illustrative fodder growing technique 800 .
- electrical power may be provided via local power mains, a generator, or from an AMCS unit's generator.
- various embodiments contemplate that various grain— (which may have been soaked beforehand)—may be loaded onto the trays and inserted into the shelves. Shelves may be numbered by owners as desired to allow for specific recordkeeping system.
- control system may be activated.
- the pump system timer may be initiated and temperature control may be activated.
- fodder system 700 may include a controlled event. For example, every 6 hours, the trays may be automatically flooded with water from a lower catch tank. The specific amount of time for this flooding may be controlled by a preselected time which is determined by type of grain and stage of germination. As the water flows through the sloped trays, it drains through a series of perforations at the lower end of the trays and then drips onto the trays located on the shelf below it. This flow of water continues from tray to tray—top shelf to bottom shelf—until each tray is fully flooded and then drained by gravity.
- a controlled event For example, every 6 hours, the trays may be automatically flooded with water from a lower catch tank. The specific amount of time for this flooding may be controlled by a preselected time which is determined by type of grain and stage of germination. As the water flows through the sloped trays, it drains through a series of perforations at the lower end of the trays and then drips onto the trays located on the shelf below it. This
- the system may collect, condition, and recirculate the water. For example, the water may then be recirculated through the filter and UV system and sent back up to the top trays to repeat the flood cycle. This circulation time is dependent on a preselected interval via operator timer control.
- fodder system 700 may include an alternate pump and filter system that operates independently of the flood cycle pump system. It may use an additional pump, filter, UV light and timer control system. At predetermined times— (set by the operator based on grain quality)—this filtration system may be set to run to continually clean the catch tank water so as to minimize bacteria and smell of recirculated water.
- additional water may be added to the system, based at least in part on a type of grain planted, a stage of the grain's growth, a water level in the catch tank, or combinations thereof among others. For example, as the grain sprouts and grows, it begins to retain more moisture.
- the catch tank may be sized large enough to allow for this and only requires “make-up” water to be added occasionally.
- a float may be installed in the catch tank to shut the system down and signal an operator alarm in the event of low water condition. This “make-up” water may be provided either by manual addition or automatic addition from an AMCS unit if attached.
- the fodder may then be removed and fed to animals.
- fodder system 700 may include an alternative method for system organization it to do the aforementioned tray loading at different cycles:
- This method may allow for continuous daily feeding. Also, since various embodiments contemplate 7 shelves with 7 trays, a vertical method of filling and harvesting trays may be used.
- fodder system 700 may include a climate control:
- fodder system 700 may also have an environmental control system which keeps humidity and temperatures at optimal growing conditions. The temperature may be maintained via the heating and cooling unit. For example, during hotter temperatures, the cooling system not only chills the inside air, but also allows for excess moisture to be collected, condensed and returned to the catch tank. This means that water lost to outside of the fodder unit is reduced or effectively eliminated.
- fodder system 700 may include a lighting system: For example, after germination and sprouting of the grain, an LED lighting system may help to green-up the stalks of the growing fodder. This also allows the individual stalk to maintain upright growing position so that other grain stalks can breathe freely—thus producing a more lush growth.
- Various embodiments contemplate placing a light source above each tray or shelf to provide sufficient light to the growing fodder.
- fodder system 700 may include a fully enclosed and filtered air exchange system.
- the strong metal module is its ability to not only provide a secure operation, but also help eliminate insects from migrating inside. With any type of organic seed germination in warm environments, there is insect nuisance. Small flies are attracted to the smell of the wet grains and will lay eggs which will hatch and produce larvae. In order to minimize this risk, the incoming air may be filtered and mixed with the already temperature conditioned air inside the unit. This may require a modulating vent and fan mechanism which is connected with the environmental control system. Any air (excluding opening of doors for service and operation) may then be filtered.
- fodder system 700 may include an Electronic Bug control (zapper) unit to operate inside the Fodder unit as a secondary pest control.
- zapper Electronic Bug control
Landscapes
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Environmental Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Vaporization, Distillation, Condensation, Sublimation, And Cold Traps (AREA)
Abstract
A system comprising a conditioning system with one or more cooling coils configured to allow air to pass through the cooling coils to reduce a temperature of the air as well as an extraction portion with a plurality of condensing plates configured to receive conditioned air and configured to cause a portion water vapor of the conditioned air to collect and form liquid water, and a reservoir configured to receive collected liquid water from the plurality of condensing plates.
Description
- This Application is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/118,253, filed Aug. 30, 2018, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/552,315, filed Aug. 30, 2017, which are incorporated herein by reference.
- This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.
- This disclosure describes techniques and systems for condensing water from the atmosphere. For example, potable water may be harvested from the atmosphere and distributed using some of the techniques discussed herein.
- The Detailed Description is set forth with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The use of the same reference numbers in different figures indicates similar or identical items.
-
FIG. 1 is a view of an illustrative embodiment of an Atmospheric Moisture Condensing System (AMCS). -
FIG. 2 is an illustrative technique using the AMCS. -
FIGS. 3-6 are views of an illustrative AMCS. -
FIG. 7 is a view of an illustrative hydroponic germination fodder system. -
FIG. 8 is an illustrative technique using the hydroponic germination fodder system ofFIG. 7 . - This disclosure describes techniques and systems for condensing water from the atmosphere. For example, potable water may be harvested from the atmosphere and distributed using some of the techniques discussed herein.
- The need for potable water is evident for life throughout the entire world. Recent global climate changes have decreased the available amount of clean drinking water which can be easily obtained through conventional means; such as rivers, lakes, rain water runoff and wells/boreholes.
- However, within the earth's atmosphere, the ambient humidity is sufficient to satisfy the water needs of every human. If this humidity can be economically and efficiently harvested, it would offer a major source of potable water. The past problems encountered with conventional atmospheric were typically that of expensive input energy to production efficiency. Over the past decade, huge forward steps have been made in industry to offer more efficient power generation options. This, combined with more efficient technology in the area of refrigeration, has helped to reduce the cost for producing water from the atmosphere. However, the embodiments discussed herein provide further advancements in that field. Various embodiments provide more efficient techniques and systems to collect moisture from the atmosphere and generate potable and filtered water.
- Generally, Atmospheric Water Harvesters are machines that use a refrigeration principle to lower the temperature of any given unit of ambient air—thus causing moisture to condense out of this air onto a manageable surface for collection. This concept has been used in prior designs; however the efficiency has typically been low by energy rating standards.
- While the science behind this type of water production is fairly simplistic in idea, effecting the technique in an engineered mechanical apparatus is not. For example, because of varying air temperatures and relative humidity at those temperature levels, humidity responds differently with respect to coalescing and condensing. As such, to manipulate the moisture and force it to condense, elaborate structuring of surfaces may be designed. Additionally, such things as: air velocities, directional air flow, temperature control (among other variables) are taken into account and designed into the machine.
- Various embodiments contemplate addressing these characteristics to create an efficient atmospheric water harvester.
-
FIG. 1 shows an illustrative embodiment of an Atmospheric Moisture Condensing System (AMCS) 100. For example, AMCS 100 may include an atmospheric intake andconditioning portion 102. The atmospheric intake andconditioning portion 102 may comprise anintake filter 104 andrefrigeration coil assembly 106. Various embodiment contemplate that therefrigeration coil assembly 106 may be functionally coupled to acompressor system 108. Additionally or alternatively, the atmospheric intake andconditioning portion 102 may include ducting 110 to direct, accommodate, and contain airflow through the atmospheric intake andconditioning portion 102. Additionally or alternatively, the atmospheric intake andconditioning portion 102 may includesensors 112 to monitor conditions in the system. For example,sensors 112 may be configured to monitor one or more of air velocities, directional airflow, temperature, humidity, reservoir levels, among other conditions. Additionally or alternatively,sensors 112 may be configured to monitor various conditions continuously, intermittently, and/or based on a triggering condition. Additionally or alternatively,sensors 112 may be configured to operate and monitor various conditions independently ofother sensors 112. Additionally or alternatively,sensors 112 may be communicatively connected tocontrol system 114. Additionally or alternatively,sensors 112 may be connected withcontrol system 114 using wired or wireless communication technology. - Additionally or alternatively, AMCS 100 may include an
extraction portion 116. Theextraction portion 116 may compriseplates 118, for example, cool plates. Various embodiments contemplate thatcondensing plates 118 may be stainless steel or other suitable material. Various embodiments contemplate thatcondensing plates 118 may be thermally coupled torefrigeration coil assembly 106 directly or through athermal bridge 120. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate thecondensing plates 118 not being thermally coupled torefrigeration coil assembly 106 through athermal bridge 120 or directly. Various embodiments contemplate thatcondensing plates 118 may be situated adjacent to each other in a distributed orientation. Various embodiments contemplate a ¼″ spacing between individual condensing plates. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate thatcondensing plates 118 may include a suitable number of plates sized for a desired production. For example, various embodiment contemplate that thecondensing plates 118 may include between 120 and 140 plates and may be approximately 20″×30″ of 20 gauge stainless steel. Theextraction portion 116 may also include ducting 122 that may direct a flow from aninlet 124 across thecondensing plates 118 to anoutlet duct 126. Additionally or alternatively, flow through the ducts may be effected by use of afan system 128. - Additionally or alternatively, AMCS 100 may include a
collection portion 130. For example,collection portion 130 may comprise areservoir pan 132. Additionally or alternatively,reservoir pan 132 may be in fluid communicate with aliquid management system 134. Various embodiments contemplate thatliquid management system 134 may include a pump system configured to move the extracted liquid from thereservoir pan 132. Various embodiments contemplate that the extracted liquid may be moved through various filter systems including, but not limited to UV filter, activated charcoal filters, among others. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that the extracted liquid may be moved though theliquid management system 134 to another holding tank, distributed, bottled, or otherwise used. - Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that an illustrative system may comprise a conditioning portion comprising one or more cooling coils configured to allow air to pass through the cooling coils to reduce a temperature of the air as well as an extraction portion coupled to the conditioning portion, configured to receive conditioned air from the conditioning portion, the extraction portion comprising a plurality of condensing plates configured to cause a portion water vapor of the conditioned air to collect and form liquid water on the plurality of condensing plates.
- Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that the system may also include a reservoir coupled to the extraction portion configured to receive collected liquid water from the plurality of condensing plates.
- Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that the system may also include an air flow management system configured to direct intake air across a portion of the plurality of condensing plates and to direct exhaust air from the system.
- Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that the system may also include a liquid management system configured to move the extracted liquid from the reservoir pan. Additionally or alternatively, the liquid management system may be further configured to move the extracted liquid through one or more filters. For example, the one or more filters may include one or more of a UV filter, an activated charcoal filter, or a combination thereof, among others.
-
FIG. 2 shows an illustrativewater extraction technique 200. For example, at 202, various embodiments contemplate that filteredambient air 136 is drawn into theAMCS 100 by fans, for example, axial fans. Theair 136 passes through therefrigeration coil assembly 106. Here, the coolant may expand and remove heat from theair 136. Theair 136 is then cooled to a sufficient level and then travels vertically downward between condensingplates 118. - At 204, as the cooled incoming
ambient air 136 passes through the condensingplates 118, heat from the plate system is transferred into the airstream and exhausted from theAMCS 100 throughoutlet duct 126. As this process continues, the effective temperature of the condensingplates 118 is reduced until they become at or below the dew point of theair 136. - At 206, as this happens, moisture starts to form on the plates and condenses into
larger droplets 138, which, by gravity, drops into thereservoir pan 132. - At 208, the
larger droplets 138 are collected in thereservoir pan 132, where, in some embodiments, before dropping into thereservoir pan 132, thedroplets 138 may pass through a sieve/screen. This screen not only catches any foreign debris that might have inadvertently passed through the condensingplates 118, but may also acts as a substantial air barrier to help prevent the exhausting air from re-evaporating water back into the air. - Various embodiments contemplate that temperature and humidity parameters for this process may be closely monitored by use of
sensors 112 and fan speed controllers. The refrigeration system may be adjusted to a specific range of cooling so that the dew point can be manipulated precisely to match the ambient air conditions. - The exhausted system air may be ducted to the outside, or may be recovered for various needs such as zone cooling, as desired. This exhausted air is cool and dry when compared to the incoming ambient air.
- Various embodiments contemplate that the water filtration system may include float units and an inline strainer filter, a diaphragm pump, a cartridge filter unit, a UV lamp, manual diverting valves, and solenoids for dispensing.
- Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that after the water in the
reservoir pan 132 reaches a predetermined level, theliquid management system 134 starts the flow of fresh water through the filter and UV system. This circulation may continue until the water is removed from the system or an additional monitoring control sends it to an outside reservoir. - Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that
control system 114 may also control the fans and cooling system. For example,control system 114 may be connected tosensors 112 as well as sensors outside of unit. For example, atmospheric conditions may be monitored, a remote reservoir level may be monitored. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplatecontrol system 114 may be coupled to a predictive system that may determine a predicted demand or predicted atmospheric conditions. For example, a predicted demand may trigger the AMCS to begin generation sufficiently prior to the demand to be able to meet it. Additionally or alternatively, the AMCS may be triggered to begin generating since predicted atmospheric conditions may cause the unit to operate less effectively. - Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that an illustrative technique may comprise extracting a first amount of heat from a coolant and transferring the coolant to a refrigeration coil assembly. For example, the first amount of heat may be extracted from a coolant by extracting the heat through a heat exchanger.
- Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate transferring a second amount of heat to the coolant from the refrigeration coil assembly and a plurality of cooling plates. Further, various embodiments contemplate receiving ambient air with a first level of moisture and passing ambient air through the refrigeration coil assembly and the plurality of cooling plates. Further, based at least in part on a difference of heat between the refrigeration coil assembly and the plurality of cooling plates and the ambient air, removing a first amount of moisture from the ambient air reducing the ambient air to a second level of moisture, and collecting at least a portion of the removed first amount of moisture in liquid form. For example, the removing the first amount of moisture may include reducing a temperature of the ambient air to below a temperature threshold causing moisture from the ambient air to condense and liquify on the plurality of cooling plates. Where, for example, the temperature threshold may be a dew point of the ambient air.
- Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that the removed first amount of moisture in liquid form may include collecting liquid droplets through gravity.
-
FIGS. 3-6 show views of an additional embodiment of an AMCS. For example,FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an embodiment ofAMCS 300.FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of anAMCS 400.FIG. 5 shows a cutaway view ofAMCS 300.FIG. 6 shows a cutaway view ofAMCS 300 with the plane of intersection rotated approximately perpendicular to the plane of intersection shown inFIG. 5 . -
FIG. 7 shows anillustrative fodder system 700. Various embodiments contemplate that thefodder system 700 may be coupled to or paired with a AMCS as discussed above. For purposes of this disclosure, fodder is an animal feed which is live, recently harvested plants, leaves, grasses, or combinations thereof. Various embodiments contemplate thatfodder system 700 leverages innovative techniques in order to produce feed at accelerated growing rates with minimal or reduced cost input to allow for a regular, for example, daily output—normally impossible with natural growing conditions. Another major benefit may be that this type of feeding system may greatly minimize “animal caused erosion” impact due to over grazing of pasture land. Feeding areas for livestock may be located in concentrated areas near compounds and farm centers. Manure may be managed within a specific area and reused as needed on pastures. - While fodder type feed has been available for farmers and ranchers in the past,
fodder system 700 represents a unique approach which offers versatility as well as mobility. Additionally, it may be used with AMCS, as discussed above, to provide a constant or regular supply of input water in areas where fodder normally could not be grown. - Various embodiments contemplate that
fodder system 700 may include a weather/environmental controlledshelter unit 702, for example, aluminum, which may be fully portable with various techniques such towing or helicopter lifting. Optional towing axles may be attached directly to unit with a drawbar type tongue. Various embodiments contemplate that standardized sizes may be used, for example, 6′X9′ and 7′X12′ (nominal outside dimensions). - Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that
fodder system 700 may include aclimate control system 704 for heating or cooling as needed. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate thatfodder system 700 may include an electrically driven monitoring andcontrol systems 706, a filtration/pump system 708/710 for reuse of water within the growing module and timers for controlled, for example, consistent or tailored, watering cycles. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate thatfodder system 700 may include special product growinglighting system 712. - Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that
fodder system 700 may include a shelving and growingtray system 714, designed with aslope 716 to allow for proper drainage and growth cycles offodder 718. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate thatfodder system 700 may include aremote monitoring device 720 for providing status information including alerting an operator of alarm issues. It is understood that theremote monitoring device 720 may comprise a wired or a wireless connection or a combination thereof to portions of thefodder system 700, for example, weather/environmental controlledshelter unit 702. - Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that the
fodder system 700 may include awater distribution system 722 which may be coupled to controlsystems 706 to selectively distributewater 724 into one ormore fodder trays 726. Various embodiments contemplate that thewater 724 will migrate through thefodder trays 726 allowing thefodder 718 to receivewater 724, where the surplus ofwater 724 is received atcatch basin 728. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that the water may be transferred to a filtration/pump system 708/710 for reuse ofwater 724. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate acontrol valve system 730 coupled to controlsystems 706 to selectively add water from an AMCS as noted above. - Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that a hydroponic germination fodder system may include an environmentally controlled shelter unit with a climate control system configured to control the climate. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate a water filtration and pump system configured to condition water and move the water selectively in the system. For example, the water filtration and pump system may feed a plurality of trays configured to hold grain and pass water across the grain from a first region of a tray to a second region of the tray.
- Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that a shelving system may be configured to hold the plurality of trays at one or more angles aiding the water passing through the trays. For example, trays may be held at an angle sufficient for water to pass from one end to another end or from one side to another side based on gravity. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that they system may have a catch basin configured to receive water collected from the plurality of trays that is not soaked up by the grain as it grows.
- Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that the system includes a monitor and control system configured to monitor and control one or more of the movement of water, conditions of the environmentally controlled shelter unit, or the climate control system. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that they system may also include a remote monitoring system configured to transmit status information to a user or system.
- Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that the system may include a growing light system configured to provide a controlled light source to the grain to aid in growing. Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that the system may include an atmospheric moisture condensing system configured to provide additional water to the system.
-
FIG. 8 shows an illustrativefodder growing technique 800. For example, after thefodder system 700 is placed and leveled at the desired site, electrical power may be provided via local power mains, a generator, or from an AMCS unit's generator. - At 802, various embodiments contemplate that various grain— (which may have been soaked beforehand)—may be loaded onto the trays and inserted into the shelves. Shelves may be numbered by owners as desired to allow for specific recordkeeping system.
- At 804, after loading the system, the control system may be activated. For example, the pump system timer may be initiated and temperature control may be activated.
- At 806, various embodiments contemplate that
fodder system 700 may include a controlled event. For example, every 6 hours, the trays may be automatically flooded with water from a lower catch tank. The specific amount of time for this flooding may be controlled by a preselected time which is determined by type of grain and stage of germination. As the water flows through the sloped trays, it drains through a series of perforations at the lower end of the trays and then drips onto the trays located on the shelf below it. This flow of water continues from tray to tray—top shelf to bottom shelf—until each tray is fully flooded and then drained by gravity. - At 808, after the water reaches the catch tank at the bottom, the system may collect, condition, and recirculate the water. For example, the water may then be recirculated through the filter and UV system and sent back up to the top trays to repeat the flood cycle. This circulation time is dependent on a preselected interval via operator timer control.
- Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that
fodder system 700 may include an alternate pump and filter system that operates independently of the flood cycle pump system. It may use an additional pump, filter, UV light and timer control system. At predetermined times— (set by the operator based on grain quality)—this filtration system may be set to run to continually clean the catch tank water so as to minimize bacteria and smell of recirculated water. - At 810, additional water may be added to the system, based at least in part on a type of grain planted, a stage of the grain's growth, a water level in the catch tank, or combinations thereof among others. For example, as the grain sprouts and grows, it begins to retain more moisture. The catch tank may be sized large enough to allow for this and only requires “make-up” water to be added occasionally. A float may be installed in the catch tank to shut the system down and signal an operator alarm in the event of low water condition. This “make-up” water may be provided either by manual addition or automatic addition from an AMCS unit if attached.
- After the initial 6-7 days of growth (exact days of maturity dependent upon types of grain stock used)—the fodder may then be removed and fed to animals.
- Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that
fodder system 700 may include an alternative method for system organization it to do the aforementioned tray loading at different cycles: - For example, instead of loading all the trays at the same time, only one shelf of trays (horizontally) is loaded each day—consecutively. After 7 days, all trays will be fully loaded and the top shelf of trays is ready for harvest. After harvesting and refilling these empty trays, the cycle is repeated. Each subsequent shelf underneath the previous one is harvested and then refilled with pre-soaked grain.
- This method may allow for continuous daily feeding. Also, since various embodiments contemplate 7 shelves with 7 trays, a vertical method of filling and harvesting trays may be used.
- Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that
fodder system 700 may include a climate control: For example,fodder system 700 may also have an environmental control system which keeps humidity and temperatures at optimal growing conditions. The temperature may be maintained via the heating and cooling unit. For example, during hotter temperatures, the cooling system not only chills the inside air, but also allows for excess moisture to be collected, condensed and returned to the catch tank. This means that water lost to outside of the fodder unit is reduced or effectively eliminated. - Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that
fodder system 700 may include a lighting system: For example, after germination and sprouting of the grain, an LED lighting system may help to green-up the stalks of the growing fodder. This also allows the individual stalk to maintain upright growing position so that other grain stalks can breathe freely—thus producing a more lush growth. Various embodiments contemplate placing a light source above each tray or shelf to provide sufficient light to the growing fodder. - Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that
fodder system 700 may include a fully enclosed and filtered air exchange system. For example, another unique feature is that of the strong metal module is its ability to not only provide a secure operation, but also help eliminate insects from migrating inside. With any type of organic seed germination in warm environments, there is insect nuisance. Small flies are attracted to the smell of the wet grains and will lay eggs which will hatch and produce larvae. In order to minimize this risk, the incoming air may be filtered and mixed with the already temperature conditioned air inside the unit. This may require a modulating vent and fan mechanism which is connected with the environmental control system. Any air (excluding opening of doors for service and operation) may then be filtered. - Additionally or alternatively, various embodiments contemplate that
fodder system 700 may include an Electronic Bug control (zapper) unit to operate inside the Fodder unit as a secondary pest control. - Although embodiments have been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed herein as illustrative forms of implementing the embodiments. Any portion of one embodiment may be used in combination with any portion of a second embodiment.
Claims (12)
1. (canceled)
2. A method comprising:
extracting a first amount of heat from a coolant;
transferring the coolant to a refrigeration coil assembly;
transferring a second amount of heat to the coolant from the refrigeration coil assembly and a plurality of cooling plates;
receiving ambient air with a first level of moisture;
passing ambient air through the refrigeration coil assembly and the plurality of cooling plates;
based at least in part on a difference of heat between the refrigeration coil assembly and the plurality of cooling plates and the ambient air, removing a first amount of moisture from the ambient air reducing the ambient air to a second level of moisture; and
collecting at least a portion of the removed first amount of moisture in liquid form.
3. The method of claim 2 , the extracting a first amount of heat from a coolant comprising extracting the heat through a heat exchanger.
4. The method of claim 2 , the removing the first amount of moisture comprising reducing a temperature of the ambient air to below a temperature threshold causing moisture from the ambient air to condense and liquify on the plurality of cooling plates.
5. The method of claim 4 , the temperature threshold comprising a dew point of the ambient air.
6. The method of claim 2 , the collecting at least a portion of the removed first amount of moisture in liquid form comprises collecting liquid droplets through gravity.
7. The method of claim 2 , controlling, via a control system, a flow of the ambient air, causing the passing ambient air through the refrigeration coil assembly, the controlling the flow of the ambient air based at least in part on a predicted liquid water demand, a predicted ambient air temperature, and predicted humidity levels.
8. The method of claim 2 , controlling, via a control system, a refrigeration level, causing the extracting the first amount of heat from the coolant, the controlling the refrigeration level based at least in part on a predicted liquid water demand, a predicted ambient air temperature, and predicted humidity levels.
9. A hydroponic germination fodder system comprising:
an environmentally controlled shelter unit;
a climate control system configured to control the climate of the environmentally controlled shelter unit;
a water filtration and pump system configured to condition water and move the water selectively in the system;
a plurality of trays configured to hold grain and pass water across the grain from a first region of a tray to a second region of the tray;
a shelving system configured to hold the plurality of trays at one or more angles aiding the water passing through the trays;
a catch basin configured to receive water collected from the plurality of trays; and
a monitor and control system configured to monitor and control one or more of the movement of water, conditions of the environmentally controlled shelter unit, or the climate control system.
10. The system of claim 9 , further comprising a growing light system configured to provide a controlled light source to the grain to aid in growing.
11. The system of claim 9 , further comprising a remote monitoring system configured to transmit status information to a user or system.
12. The system of claim 9 , further comprising an atmospheric moisture condensing system configured to provide additional water to the system.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US18/075,296 US20230175730A1 (en) | 2017-08-30 | 2022-12-05 | Atmospheric moisture condensing and hydroponic germination |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201762552315P | 2017-08-30 | 2017-08-30 | |
US16/118,253 US11519634B2 (en) | 2017-08-30 | 2018-08-30 | Atmospheric moisture condensing and hydroponic germination |
US18/075,296 US20230175730A1 (en) | 2017-08-30 | 2022-12-05 | Atmospheric moisture condensing and hydroponic germination |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US16/118,253 Continuation US11519634B2 (en) | 2017-08-30 | 2018-08-30 | Atmospheric moisture condensing and hydroponic germination |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20230175730A1 true US20230175730A1 (en) | 2023-06-08 |
Family
ID=65436976
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US16/118,253 Active 2039-01-26 US11519634B2 (en) | 2017-08-30 | 2018-08-30 | Atmospheric moisture condensing and hydroponic germination |
US18/075,296 Abandoned US20230175730A1 (en) | 2017-08-30 | 2022-12-05 | Atmospheric moisture condensing and hydroponic germination |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US16/118,253 Active 2039-01-26 US11519634B2 (en) | 2017-08-30 | 2018-08-30 | Atmospheric moisture condensing and hydroponic germination |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US11519634B2 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2019046643A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11160223B2 (en) * | 2018-02-18 | 2021-11-02 | Source Global, PBC | Systems for generating water for a container farm and related methods therefor |
KR20210047568A (en) * | 2019-10-22 | 2021-04-30 | 엘지전자 주식회사 | Plants cultivation apparatus and control method thereof |
US11470786B2 (en) * | 2020-05-21 | 2022-10-18 | Alvin OFRAY | Systems for facilitating artificial climate control |
US20230210062A1 (en) * | 2021-12-31 | 2023-07-06 | Sinowell (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. | Greenhouse plant growth monitoring system |
Citations (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20130047655A1 (en) * | 2009-11-19 | 2013-02-28 | Awg International, Inc. | Atmospheric water generator |
Family Cites Families (17)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1967518A (en) * | 1933-04-05 | 1934-07-24 | Sandford Dent | Refrigerator deck pan |
US5309725A (en) * | 1993-07-06 | 1994-05-10 | Cayce James L | System and method for high-efficiency air cooling and dehumidification |
US5893408A (en) * | 1995-08-04 | 1999-04-13 | Nautica Dehumidifiers, Inc. | Regenerative heat exchanger for dehumidification and air conditioning with variable airflow |
US7043934B2 (en) | 2000-05-01 | 2006-05-16 | University Of Maryland, College Park | Device for collecting water from air |
WO2007012202A1 (en) * | 2005-07-29 | 2007-02-01 | Freedom Water Company Ltd. | Water condenser |
US7293420B2 (en) * | 2005-10-07 | 2007-11-13 | Marine Desalination Systems, L.L.C. | Atmospheric moisture harvesters |
SG148084A1 (en) * | 2007-05-08 | 2008-12-31 | Arda Rahardja Lukitobudi | Energy saving and environmentally friendly atmospheric dehumidifier chiller for drinking purposes |
US7954335B2 (en) * | 2008-03-25 | 2011-06-07 | Water Generating Systems LLC | Atmospheric water harvesters with variable pre-cooling |
US8627673B2 (en) * | 2008-03-25 | 2014-01-14 | Water Generating Systems LLC | Atmospheric water harvesters |
IL200680A0 (en) | 2009-09-01 | 2010-05-17 | Water Gen Ltd | Vehicle integrable water producing device |
BR112012029381A2 (en) * | 2010-05-18 | 2019-09-24 | Water Tech International Inc | equipment and method for recovering and providing drinking water |
WO2012162545A2 (en) * | 2011-05-24 | 2012-11-29 | Awg International, Inc. | Atmospheric water generator system |
WO2012177292A1 (en) * | 2011-06-23 | 2012-12-27 | Richard Mayer | Method and apparatus for dehumidifying atmospheric moisture and purifying same |
US20130255280A1 (en) * | 2012-04-03 | 2013-10-03 | Thomas John Murphy | Portable water-generating and filtering apparatus |
US9993744B2 (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2018-06-12 | Seas Société De L'eau Aerienne Suisse Sa | Atmospheric water generation systems |
JP2016537277A (en) * | 2013-10-08 | 2016-12-01 | スカイウェル, リミテッド ライアビリティー カンパニーSkywell, LLC | Atmospheric water generation system and method |
SG10201605668QA (en) * | 2016-07-11 | 2018-02-27 | Trends Home Electrical Pte Ltd | Improved air-conditioner unit |
-
2018
- 2018-08-30 US US16/118,253 patent/US11519634B2/en active Active
- 2018-08-30 WO PCT/US2018/048952 patent/WO2019046643A1/en active Application Filing
-
2022
- 2022-12-05 US US18/075,296 patent/US20230175730A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20130047655A1 (en) * | 2009-11-19 | 2013-02-28 | Awg International, Inc. | Atmospheric water generator |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US11519634B2 (en) | 2022-12-06 |
WO2019046643A1 (en) | 2019-03-07 |
US20190063786A1 (en) | 2019-02-28 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20230175730A1 (en) | Atmospheric moisture condensing and hydroponic germination | |
US11457578B2 (en) | Grow system | |
US8844465B2 (en) | Apparatus and method for controlling maturation of aquatically hatched insects | |
US20170035002A1 (en) | Apparatus for optimizing and enhancing plant growth, development and performance | |
US20170035008A1 (en) | Method for optimizing and enhancing plant growth, development and performance | |
US20030188477A1 (en) | Environmentally friendly conditioning system particularly for a greenhouse | |
CN112203500B (en) | System and method for solar greenhouse fish-vegetable symbiosis and black soldier fly composter and automatic fish feeder | |
EA012126B1 (en) | Plant aid, water collection sheet and method | |
US10687485B2 (en) | System and method for solar greenhouse aquaponics and black soldier fly composter and auto fish feeder | |
JP2010279269A (en) | Vegetable factory | |
KR20140001660A (en) | Automatic solar heating system for greenhouses | |
KR102330448B1 (en) | Aqua Phonics Smart Farm | |
US20230127989A1 (en) | Wasp Feeding Station | |
KR102572036B1 (en) | Organic non-stop fault tolerant automatic cultivating smart farm system | |
KR101755100B1 (en) | Hydroponic culture apparatus and water fog supply method using thereby | |
Hochmuth et al. | Keys to successful tomato and cucumber production in perlite media | |
US11638403B2 (en) | Salt aerosol removal and irrigation water cooling system | |
CN109328765B (en) | Production method and device of agricultural products without phytotoxicity | |
JP2008283908A (en) | Ventilation system of growing in greenhouse | |
KR200267416Y1 (en) | Cooling device of air for agriculture | |
NO832223L (en) | IMPROVEMENTS IN OR IN CONNECTION WITH HYDROPONIC USEFUL GROWTH PRODUCTION. | |
KR101870286B1 (en) | Plant and fish factory with an enhanced efficiency | |
CN115942865A (en) | System and method for passive solar houses, buildings and skyscrapers with integrated fish-vegetable symbiosis, greenhouse and mushroom cultivation | |
KR101773848B1 (en) | Hydroponics system to prevent the spread insects | |
WO2018051651A1 (en) | Agricultural greenhouse |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: TSUNAMI PRODUCTS, WASHINGTON Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:BOWMAN, TED;COLLINS, KEVIN;LORMIS, CHARLES;REEL/FRAME:061982/0401 Effective date: 20210713 |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: RESPONSE TO NON-FINAL OFFICE ACTION ENTERED AND FORWARDED TO EXAMINER |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: NON FINAL ACTION MAILED |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |