CN203392929U - equipment for filtering water - Google Patents

Abstract

The utility model discloses a device for filtering water, comprising: a macroalgae attachment component defining a first macroalgae attachment surface, and a bubbling component, the bubbling component comprising a shell and a coupling component, the shell defining an air inlet and a group of bubble ports. The coupling component fixes the macroalgae attachment component to the bubbling component and aligns the first macroalgae attachment surface with the group of bubble ports, so that a first portion of bubbles generated by the bubble ports are guided to contact the first macroalgae attachment surface and travel along the first macroalgae attachment surface.

Description

equipment for filtering water

Cross References to Related Applications

This application claims the benefit of priority from US Provisional Application No. 61/621,565, filed April 8, 2012. the

technical field

Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to upflow algae filters that filter nutrient-containing water and promote controlled growth of algal biomass in an efficient manner. Other implementations are also described. the

Background technique

Many industries, such as aquariums, aquaculture, wastewater treatment, and pool and spa equipment, depend on "clean" water to function properly. In these industries, "clean" is defined as water that is low in nutrients (eg, inorganic nitrates, inorganic phosphates, nitrites, ammonia, ammonium, and metals such as copper). These nutrients cause problems in the water, such as excessive algae growth and bacterial growth, and in some cases, livestock poisoning. In these examples, the algae disperses in the water in an uncontrolled manner, thereby making removal of the algae difficult. Therefore, in these industries there is a need to remove nutrients and associated algae from the water in order to maintain "clean" water. the

While the removal of nutrients and algae from water is required for certain applications, many industries depend on the presence of nutrients in water for profit. For example, the food and biofuel industries grow algal biomass to produce their end products. Growth of this algal biomass requires a constant supply of nutrients. Thus, algae filters need to both filter nutrient-containing water to provide clean water and promote controlled growth of algal biomass so that the algae can be easily and efficiently harvested or removed from the water. the

Utility model content

The technical problem to be solved by the utility model is to provide an algae filter which filters water containing nutrients in an efficient manner and promotes the controlled growth of algae biomass. the

In one embodiment, an apparatus for filtering water includes: a macroalgae-attachment member defining a first macroalgae-attachment surface; and a bubbler member including a housing and a coupling member, the housing defining an air inlet and a set of bubble ports, the coupling member securing the macroalgae-attachment member to the foaming member by releasable coupling and aligning the first macroalgae-attachment surface with the set of bubble ports, Such that a first portion of the air bubbles generated by the air bubble ports are directed into contact with and travel along the first macroalgae-attachment surface. the

In one embodiment, the kelp-attachment member further defines a second kelp-attachment surface such that a second portion of air bubbles produced by the set of air bubble ports are directed into contact with the second kelp-attachment surface and along the second kelp-attachment surface. Two macroalgae travel attached to the surface. the

In one embodiment, the first macroalgae attachment surface is defined by a screen. the

In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises: a compartment in which the macroalgae attachment means and the foaming means are disposed; and an attachment mechanism coupling the compartment to a container for liquid. the

In one embodiment, the apparatus further includes: a light source coupled to the compartment that illuminates the first macroalgae-attachment surface to facilitate macroalgal growth. the

In one embodiment, the container is an aquarium. the

In one embodiment, the container is a swimming pool. the

In one embodiment, the container is a natural reservoir. the

In one embodiment, the releasable coupling allows the macroalgae attachment member to be removed from the compartment and enables the algae to be harvested. the

In one embodiment, an apparatus for filtering water includes: a macroalgae attachment member defining a first macroalgae attachment surface; and an airflow directing member comprising a housing and a coupling member, the housing defining the air inlet and means for allowing light to reach the first macroalgae-attachment surface, the coupling member securing the macroalgae-attachment member to the airflow directing member and connecting the macroalgae-attachment surface with The air bubble flow of the inlet is aligned such that a first portion of air bubbles to be received by the air inlet is directed into contact with and travels along the first macroalgae-attachment surface. the

In one embodiment, the airflow directing member further includes a set of diffracters that disperse the first portion of air bubbles along the first macroalgal attachment surface. the

In one embodiment, the air flow directing means further comprises a Venturi valve for generating air bubbles. the

In one embodiment, the first macroalgae attachment surface is defined by a screen. the

In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises: a compartment within which the macroalgae attachment means and the air flow directing means are disposed; and an attachment mechanism coupling the compartment to a container for liquid. the

In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises: a light source coupled to the housing, the light source illuminating the first macroalgae attachment surface to facilitate macroalgal growth by means of causing light to reach said first macroalgae attachment surface . the

In one embodiment, the apparatus further includes a collector that directs the airflow from the air inlet onto the first macroalgae attachment surface. the

In one embodiment, the collector defines a set of nozzles to shape the airflow within the airflow directing member. the

In one embodiment, the container is an aquarium. the

In one embodiment, the container is a swimming pool. the

In one embodiment, the container is a natural reservoir. the

In one embodiment, the macroalgae attachment member is releasably coupled to the airflow directing member such that the macroalgae attachment member is removable from the compartment and enables the algae to be harvested. the

In one embodiment, an apparatus for filtering water includes: a macroalgae attachment member defining a first macroalgae attachment surface; a compartment defining an airflow channel and defining an attachment surface; a mechanism having macroalgae attachment means disposed within the compartment for connecting the compartment to the container; and a bubbler means comprising a housing defining an air inlet and a set of bubble ports, The macroalgae attachment surface is aligned with the set of bubble ports such that a first portion of gas bubbles generated by the bubble ports are directed into contact with and travel along the first macroalgae attachment surface. the

The algae filter of the present invention provides several advantages for aquarium, biofuel and/or food production, including:

1. Eliminates the need for drains that often become clogged;

2. Eliminates the need for water pumps, which are harmful to small organisms and can become clogged;

3. Eliminates the need for separators used to harvest algae pellets from water;

4. Eliminates the need for a sump, as the water does not have to leave the aquarium;

5. The algae filter will not dry out or create dry spots even during a complete power outage;

6. The algae filter will never smell worse than the water itself, because it is always located below the water;

7. The air pump of the algae filter can be placed at a long distance without the risk of contact with water;

8. The algae filter can grow for a longer period of time compared with a waterfall algae filter that is downward due to gravity;

9. The algae filter will not grow out of the water into the air; and

10. This algae filter does not splash water because there are no waterfalls pouring over the surface, and also because there are no waterfall "spray pipes" that sometimes spray water sideways. the

In addition, the use of "airborne" algae filters as closed macroalgae photobioreactors or as open pond-grown pen-style algae growers offers similar advantages to using algae filters in aquariums. Specifically, when used as grow enclosures, yield growth and total yield are increased compared to horizontal growing layouts, as the horizontal design produces growth on the surface, which blocks light down to algae bundles at deeper depths . Vertical airlift grow pens keep the growth attached to the pen, allowing light to penetrate deeper into the water. This allows pens to be stacked together to increase the amount of biomass that can be grown per acre. the

Description of drawings

Embodiments of the present invention are illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate similar elements. It should be noted that references to "an" or "one" embodiment of the invention in this disclosure are not necessarily the same embodiment, but mean at least one. the

Figure 1 shows an embodiment of an algae filter located at the bottom of a water container for flowing water and air bubbles up onto a macroalgae attachment member. the

Figure 2 shows an embodiment of an algae filter coupled to the side of the container for flowing water and air bubbles down onto the macroalgae attachment member. the

Figure 3 shows an embodiment of an algae filter with a collector for directing air bubbles from the housing onto the macroalgae attachment member. the

Figure 4 shows an embodiment of an algae filter with an open collector for collecting air bubbles as they rise in the container and directing the air bubbles onto the macroalgae attachment member. the

Figure 5 shows an embodiment of an algae filter with multiple removable macroalgae attachment members. the

Figures 6A and 6B show an embodiment of an algae filter suspended from the back of the container. the

Figure 7 shows a macroalgae-attachment member submerged in water with air bubbles proximate the macroalgae-attachment member. the

Detailed ways

A number of embodiments of the utility model are now described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Whenever the shapes, relative positions, and other aspects of components described in the embodiments are not clearly defined, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the illustrated components, which are for illustrative purposes only. Furthermore, while numerous specific details have been set forth, it is understood that some embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known circuits, structures and methods have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure the understanding of this description. the

In the process of filtering water, the challenge has been how to easily grow algae so that the algae can be removed or harvested to remove nutrients from the water. If the algae is not removed, the algae will simply die and return nutrients to the water. For the cultivation and production of biomass, the challenge has been how to grow sufficient biomass cost-effectively in a small space. the

Algae used for filtration or for production fall into two main classes of algae: unicellular and multicellular. Single-celled algae are microorganisms (eg, plankton) that float freely in water and give the water its usual green hue. For this reason, unicellular algae are often referred to as "micro" algae or "phytotype" plankton. the

Multicellular algae are seaweeds that usually attach themselves to a surface. Because multicellular algae are much larger than microalgae, multicellular algae are often referred to as "macro"algae. It is these multicellular, attached macroalgal algae that are the focus of embodiments of the algae filter described herein. the

In the 1960s and 1970s, the filtration and production of algae mainly used attached macroalgae, but in the 1980s and 1990s, the use of planktonic microalgae was more developed. Microalgae have so many advantages including higher growth rates that in the 21st century, essentially all algae production installations use this form of algae. For harvesting, devices to separate planktonic microalgae from water have become less expensive. For the cycle used to ensure that the microalgae remained mixed in the water, air bubbles from the bubbler unit were used. However, the bubbles must be small and travel at very low speeds to reduce shear stress and damage to the algae cells. the

In a freshwater aquarium, the filtration unit usually reduces the amount of air in the water, and as the aquarium gets larger and more complex, more effort needs to be put in to keep air bubbles out of the water. Bubble aerators are only used in very small freshwater aquariums. the

In saltwater aquariums, bubble aerators are not used at all because the air bubbles make corals and fish uncomfortable, and the air bubbles create a "salt spray" at the surface that blankets nearby objects with salt. Successful saltwater tanks with large numbers of cultured corals, fish and invertebrates use extensive non-algae filtration. In response to these results, algae filter units were discontinued for sale in the late 1990s and early 2000s. the

Although research has led to a loss of confidence in the growth of firmly attached macroalgae close to air bubbles, rapid airflow of air bubbles along rough surfaces (e.g., strainers) promotes firmly attached macroalgae. The subsequent growth of macroalgae rapidly consumes almost all relevant nutrients from the water. Furthermore, the growth of macroalgae on rough surfaces with the aid of air bubbles eliminates the need to "separate" planktonic algae from the water during harvesting, since the algae to be harvested are firmly attached to the rough surface. the

Furthermore, rapids and large bubble sizes did not affect macroalgal growth. That is, the larger and faster the bubble flow, the more the algae bundle moves around, allowing more water and light to penetrate into the algae bundle. Furthermore, after the air bubbles in the aquarium have traversed the growing algae, these air bubbles can be eliminated with the aid of the air bubble removal attachment, so that these air bubbles do not interfere with other aspects of the aquarium. the

As described in more detail below, algae filters that use an "airlift" method to move water over macroalgal growth surfaces offer several advantages for aquariums, biofuels, and/or food production, including:

1. Eliminates the need for drains that often become clogged;

2. Eliminates the need for water pumps, which are harmful to small organisms and can become clogged;

3. Eliminates the need for separators used to harvest algae pellets from water;

4. Eliminates the need for a sump, as the water does not have to leave the aquarium;

5. The algae filter will not dry out or create dry spots even during a complete power outage;

6. The algae filter will never smell worse than the water itself, because it is always located below the water;

7. The air pump of the algae filter can be placed at a long distance without the risk of contact with water;

8. The algae filter can grow for a longer period of time compared with a waterfall algae filter that is downward due to gravity;

9. The algae filter will not grow out of the water into the air; and

10. This algae filter does not splash water because there are no waterfalls pouring over the surface, and also because there are no waterfall "spray pipes" that sometimes spray water sideways. the

In addition, the use of "airborne" algae filters as closed macroalgae photobioreactors or as open pond grow-fence algal incubators provides similar benefits to the use of algae filters in aquariums. Advantage. Specifically, when used as grow enclosures, yield growth and total yield are increased compared to horizontal growing layouts, as the horizontal design produces growth on the surface, which blocks light down to algae bundles at deeper depths . Vertical airlift grow pens keep the growth attached to the pen, allowing light to penetrate deeper into the water. This allows pens to be stacked together to increase the amount of biomass that can be grown per acre. the

FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of an algae filter 101 located at the bottom of a water container 103 . Although container 103 is shown in FIG. 1 as an aquarium, container 103 may be any container capable of holding water. For example, the container 103 may be a swimming pool, a bathing facility, a lake, an ocean, a reservoir, and the like. the

Algae filter 101 includes macroalgae attachment member 105 , bubbler member 107 , compartment 109 , attachment mechanism 111 and light source 113 . Each of these elements will be described below by way of example. the

The bubbling member 107 is means for generating bubbles in the liquid. For example, the foaming component 107 may be an air stone or an aquarium bubbler. In one embodiment, the blister component 107 includes a housing 115 and a coupling mechanism 117 . Housing 115 defines an air inlet 119 for receiving gas flow and a set of bubble ports 121 for discharging gas into vessel 103 . The gas inlet 119 may receive gas through a tube or conduit 123 coupled to the gas inlet 119 . In one embodiment, tubing couples the external pump or compressor 125 to the air inlet 119. The gas generated by the external pump 125 enters the air inlet 119 through the pipe 123 . Once in the gas inlet 119 , the gas is exposed to the bubble port 121 and allowed to escape into the vessel 103 through the bubble port 121 to form bubbles in the water of the vessel 103 . In one embodiment, bubble port 121 is a hole through housing 115 that exposes air inlet 119 to container 103 . Bubble ports 121 may be evenly spaced along multiple rows on housing 115 or randomly arranged on housing 115 . In one embodiment, the distance between the air bubble ports used in the aquarium is 10mm, but the distance between the air bubble ports can also be between 5mm and 20mm, while for the seaweed culture device, the distance between the air bubble ports can be between 50mm and 200mm between. In one embodiment, the bubbler member 107 emits 0.01 liters to 1.0 liters of bubbles per minute per linear inch in an aquarium. For algae cultivation and other uses, the air flow through the foaming part will be higher. the

Macroalgae attachment member 105 is a screen or rigid mesh having at least one surface 127 for growing algae. In one embodiment, the macroalgae attachment member 105 is a rectangular plastic screen that provides a rough structure for growing algae. Although described as being made of plastic, the macroalgae attachment member 105 may be made of any non-corrosive material. Surface 127 may be a side of macroalgae-attachment member 105 or a portion of a side of macroalgae-attachment member 105 as described herein. The macroalgae attachment member 105 and corresponding surface 127 should be as thin as possible and transparent to maximize the amount of light reaching the roots of the growing algae. In some embodiments, the macroalgae attachment member 105 has a width between 5 cm and 50 cm, a height between 5 cm and 100 cm, and a thickness between 1 mm and 10 mm. For example, in one embodiment, the macroalgae attachment member 105 has a width of 25 cm, a height of 50 cm, and a thickness of 5 mm. the

A coupling mechanism 117 couples the macroalgae attachment member 105 to the foaming member 107 . Although shown as being separate from the bubbler member 107, in one embodiment, the macroalgae attachment member 105 and the bubbler member 107 are a single, inseparable unit. In this embodiment, blister component 107 does not include coupling mechanism 117 . the

Coupling mechanism 117 may be one or more clamps, screws, bolts, latches, weights, or similar devices capable of releasably coupling macroalgae attachment member 105 to blister member 107 . A releasable coupling is defined as a connection configured to be releasable by a user without the aid of external tools and without causing damage to components including the coupling mechanism 117, the bubbler component 107, the macroalgae attachment component 105, or the algae filter Other components of the device 101. In one embodiment, the macroalgae attachment member 105 is separated from the foaming member 107 so that algae growing on the macroalgae attachment member 105 can be harvested. As shown in FIG. 1 , the coupling mechanism 117 is a set of weights that secure the macroalgae attachment member 105 to the foaming member 107 . Coupling mechanism 117 aligns surface 127 of macroalgae attachment member 105 with one or more bubble ports 121 . In one embodiment, an entire row of bubble ports 121 is aligned with the entire length of surface 127 . By aligning bubble port 121 with surface 127 of macroalgae attachment member 105 , air bubbles discharged by bubble port 121 are oriented to travel along surface 127 and make direct contact with surface 127 . the

By rapidly flowing the air bubbles along the roughened surface 127 in an "air-flight" fashion, firmly attached macroalgal growth will be formed on the macroalgal attachment member 105 . The larger and faster the stream of air bubbles, the more the algae bundles move around, allowing more water and light to penetrate into these algae bundles. This algae growth will rapidly deplete the water of essentially all relevant nutrients. Furthermore, since the algae are attached to the macroalgae attachment part 105, it is not necessary to separate any floating algae from the water when harvesting the algae. To further increase algae growth, the bubbles can include _CO2 to provide more carbon for the algae to consume.

In one embodiment, the compartment 109 surrounds the bubbling member 107 and the macroalgae attachment member 105 . The compartment 109 may be made of a translucent material that allows light to pass through to reach the surface 127 and allow the corresponding algae to grow. For example, compartment 109 may be made of a transparent plastic or glass material. Air bubbles and water are allowed to enter the compartment 109 through the inlet 119 or a separate opening in the compartment 109 which exposes the interior of the compartment 109 to the water in the container 103 . In one embodiment, an opening at the bottom of the compartment 109 allows water to enter the compartment 109 and gas to enter through the inlet 119 . As the algae grow on the surface 127, the bundles of algae growing protrudingly from the surface 127 will naturally force the air bubbles away. Compartment 109 ensures that the gas bubbles remain enclosed and in direct contact with surface 127 by providing a barrier or guide. The compartment 109 is open on one side to allow air bubbles to escape the compartment 109 after traversing the surface 127 . The opening on one side of the compartment 109 may also allow easy removal of the macroalgae attachment member 105 for harvesting. the

Compartment 109 is sized to fit around macroalgae attachment member 105 . In some embodiments, the compartment 109 has a width of 5 cm to 50 cm, a height of 5 cm to 100 cm, and a thickness of 10 mm to 150 mm. For example, in one embodiment, the compartment 109 has a width of 30 cm, a height of 60 cm and a thickness of 30 mm. In one embodiment, the compartment 109 is positioned 20 mm from the surface 127 . By positioning the compartment 109 20mm away, algae growth on the surface 127 will not be thicker than 20mm. Thus, this growth almost never prevents light from reaching the roots of the growing algae, which will prevent the growth from dying or detaching from the surface 127 . In other embodiments, the compartment 109 is positioned at a distance of 5 mm to 30 mm from the surface 127 to promote the growth of smaller or larger algae bundles. In one embodiment, the algae filter 101 does not include the compartment 109 and the surface 127 of the macroalgae attachment member 105 is directly exposed to the water in the container 103 . the

In some embodiments, the algae filter 101 is used in a container 103 with livestock. In these embodiments, the algae may overgrow and detach from surface 127 . For example, in embodiments where the algae filter 101 does not include the compartment 109 or the compartment 109 is open at one or more ends, algae can escape and float in the container 103 . The algae will end up in livestock areas where it can be eaten by herbivores. the

After the desired degree of growth has been achieved, the solid algae on the surface 127 is removed (harvested) so that nutrients are removed from the system and the grown algae can be used in the food, aquaculture and/or biofuel industries . This is accomplished by removing the macroalgae attachment member 105 from the compartment 109 and scraping the algae off the surface 127 . Macroalgae attachment member 105 is then replaced back into compartment 109 to allow further growth of algae. Such clearing/harvesting may be performed manually by a user, or through the use of automated harvesting devices operating at predetermined intervals or in response to triggering events. the

In some embodiments, the bubbler member 107 plants algae on the housing 115 . In these embodiments, the bubbler member 107 and the macroalgae attachment member 105 are a single, integral unit. the

In some embodiments, the gas generated by the external pump or compressor 125 and received through the air inlet 119 is pulsed or repeatedly turned on and off. This provides periodic surges of flow back into the vessel 103 which may benefit some livestock and reduce aeration costs. By using an air pump instead of a water pump, it is easier for the algae filter 101 to apply a pulse of gas since the air pump is easy to turn on and off, which is not the case with the water pump, which typically requires the pump to be primed before each restart. the

Compartment 109 is coupled to container 103 using attachment mechanism 111 . Attachment mechanism 111 may be one or more clamps, screws, bolts, latches, or similar devices capable of coupling compartment 109 to container 103 . In FIG. 1 , attachment mechanism 111 couples compartment 109 to the bottom of container 103 . In other embodiments, an attachment mechanism 111 couples the compartment 109 to a side wall or ceiling of the container 103 . In some embodiments, algae filter 101 does not include attachment mechanism 111. In these embodiments, the algae filter 101 rests on the floor of the container 103 , rests against the side of the container 103 , or floats in the water of the container 103 . the

In one embodiment, the algae filter 101 may include a light source 113 . Light source 113 is directed at surface 127 of macroalgae attachment member 105 . Although shown in FIG. 1 as an artificial light source (ie, a light bulb), the light source 113 may be provided by natural or artificial means. Natural lighting includes light redirected from the sun by means of mirrors, metal conduits, or fiber optics, whereas artificial lighting includes all forms of light bulbs, LEDs, or other lighting devices. Using natural or artificial lighting, the light source 113 can be directly coupled to the algae filter 101 or part of the separation device. In some embodiments, a reflector 129 is provided around the macroalgae attachment member 105 to increase illumination of the surface 127 and promote algae growth. Reflector 129 is made of or coated with a light reflective material and reflects or redirects light from light source 113 to algae growing on surface 127 . the

FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of an algae filter 101 coupled to the side of a container 103 using an attachment mechanism 111 . In this embodiment, the water and air bubbles flow down through the airflow guide 201 onto the macroalgae attachment member 105 . The air flow guide 201 may consist of a housing 205 and a coupling mechanism 209 . In one embodiment, housing 205 is a hose that flows water and air bubbles from air inlet 211 over macroalgae attachment member 105 . Housing 205 may be coupled to a dedicated water pump (eg, a drain pump) for overflowing water from a filtration system or similar device for pumping water. Bubbles can occur naturally in water due to turbulence induced by pumping and the movement of the water or artificially introduced by pumping gas into the water flow. For example, _CO2 can be pumped into a water stream from an external source. In some embodiments, _CO2 is captured by industrial methods and pumped into water.

Coupling mechanism 209 secures macroalgae attachment member 105 to airflow guide 201 . Coupling mechanism 209 may be one or more clamps, screws, bolts, latches, or similar devices capable of coupling macroalgae attachment member 105 to airflow guide 201 . As shown in FIG. 2 , the coupling mechanism 209 is a bracket that secures the airflow guide 201 to the top of the compartment 109 . Coupling mechanism 209 aligns surface 127 of macroalgae attachment member 105 with airflow guide 201 . In one embodiment, the airflow guide 201 does not include a coupling mechanism 209 . In this embodiment, the airflow guide 201 is not coupled to the compartment 109 , but it is aligned with the macroalgae attachment member 105 . the

In the embodiment of FIG. 2 , the water and air bubbles are poured down from the housing 205 to the surface 127 and circulated back and forth over the surface 127 by the constant downward force of the water and air bubbles. Compartment 109 includes overflow channels 203 on multiple sides to allow water and air bubbles to escape into container 103 after completing the cycle and contacting surface 127 . In some embodiments, compartment 109 does not include overflow tank 203 . the

In one embodiment, one or more diffractive volumes 207 are coupled to surface 127 . Diffraction volumes 207 are small pieces that diffract the motion of water and air bubbles on portions of surface 127 . In this way, the air bubbles are not mainly concentrated in one part of the surface 127 while ignoring other parts. Having the gas bubbles contact portions of the surface 127 provides a more even degree of algae growth on both sides of the surface 127, as well as maximizing the growth of the algae before harvesting must be performed. In some embodiments, the diffractive body 207 has a width between 5 mm and 50 mm, a height between 5 mm and 50 mm, and a thickness between 5 mm and 50 mm. For example, in one embodiment, the diffracting body 207 has a width of 20 mm, a height of 20 mm, and a thickness of 20 mm. the

FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of an algae filter 101 with a collector 301 to direct air bubbles from the housing 205 onto the surface 127 . Collector 301 receives the flow of water and air bubbles from housing 205 and distributes the water and air bubbles over portions of surface 127 . In one embodiment, collector 301 may be defined by a housing that tapers at a first end coupled to housing 205 and expands at a second end coupled to surface 127 . In one embodiment, the second end includes one or more funnels for directing the flow of water and air bubbles to different portions of the surface 127 . the

In one embodiment, a venturi valve 303 is used to introduce air bubbles into the water flow. Venturi valve 303 uses the Bernoulli principle of air injection. A high pressure water stream is sprayed through the housing 205 which is restricted at one end. The opening 305 adjacent to the restricted outlet causes a pressure differential to occur when the housing 205 is disengaged from the restriction. This has the effect of pulling air and creating a flow of water with many tiny air bubbles. Venturi valve 303 can introduce air bubbles into the water flow without additional supplemental air from an external power source. the

FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of an algae filter 101 with an open collector 401 . The open collector 401 is defined by a wide opening on the first side for collecting air bubbles in the container 103 and a narrower opening on the second side. The openings in are used to direct the collected air bubbles to the surface 127 of the macroalgae attachment member 105. In this embodiment, the bottom of the compartment 109 is open and is coupled to the narrow opening of the open collector 401 . The housing 205 is inserted directly into the water in the container 103, and the flow of water and/or air bubbles is released into the container 103 through the housing 205. The wide opening of the open collector 401 is directed downwards to collect air bubbles as they rise in the container 103 . Air bubbles are directed by the open collector 401 through the narrower opening to the surface 127 of the macroalgae attachment member 105 . The bubbles continue to rise as they contact the surface 127 and, once they reach the top of the container 103, are eventually released into the atmosphere. the

As mentioned above, the open collector 401 is tapered. In some embodiments, the width of the wide opening on the first side for collecting air bubbles is between 10 cm and 50 cm, and the width of the narrower opening on the second side for directing the collected air bubbles to surface 127 is between 10 cm and 50 cm. The thickness is between 10mm and 50mm. For example, the wide opening may be 40 cm and the narrower opening may be 30 mm and match the thickness of the compartment 109 . the

In one embodiment, algae filter 101 with open collector 401 includes light source 113 . As shown in FIG. 4 , light source 113 is coupled to the top of container 103 and directed downward toward surface 127 . In other embodiments, the light source 113 may be an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) clamped to the sides of the compartment 109 and directed toward the surface 127 . the

FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of an algae filter 101 having a plurality of macroalgae attachment members 105 . In the algae filter 101 of FIG. 5 having the plurality of macroalgae attachment members 105 , the housing 205 is coupled to the bottom of the compartment 109 . Housing 205 receives water and/or air bubbles from an external source and pumps the water and air bubbles into compartment 109 . As the air bubbles and water are forced into the compartment 109 , the air bubbles rise and directly contact the surface 127 of the macroalgae attachment member 105 . The direct contact of air bubbles with surface 127 promotes the growth of algae on surface 127 . In this embodiment, each macroalgae attachment member 105 is individually removable through the top open portion of the compartment 109 . After removal, algae growing on surface 127 may be harvested or collected. Thereafter, the macroalgae attachment member 105 can be returned to the compartment 109 for use by other algae to be grown. By locating the algae filter 101 into the container 103, algae growing in the algae filter 101 can be harvested without shutting off the air bubble flow, as opposed to locating the algae filter 101 in a cascading external device. This simplifies the method of harvesting and limits inadvertent overgrowth. the

In one embodiment, the macroalgae attachment member 105 is automatically lifted out of the compartment 109 and container 103 and replaced by a new macroalgae attachment member 105 . The removed macroalgae attachment member 105 is cleaned and the algae is harvested while algae begins to grow on the newly inserted macroalgae attachment member 105. In some embodiments, macroalgae attachment member 105 includes brushes parallel to surface 127 . During removal, the brushes of the macroalgae attachment member 105 may be pushed into contact with the walls of the compartment 109 or container 103 to brush off algae growing on the walls, which may block light from the light source 113 . the

In one embodiment, the compartment 109 and/or the kelp attachment member 105 can pivot such that the surface 127 is always perpendicular to the light source 113 . This pivoting may be performed manually by a user or by an automated technique that tracks the movement of the light source 113 . This automatic pivoting is especially useful when using a naturally moving natural light source (eg the sun). the

FIG. 6A shows an embodiment of an algae filter 101 , where the filter 101 is suspended from the back of a container 103 . Although the algae filter 101 hangs from the back of the container 103 and is outside of the water in the container 103, the macroalgae attachment member 105 located within the compartment 109 of the algae filter 101 remains submerged in the water in the container 103, as described below And exposed to the corresponding nutrients in the water. the

Figure 6B shows a cross-sectional view of the algae filter 101 suspended from the back. The algae filter 101 in this embodiment comprises separate compartments 109 . The first section 601 includes the macroalgae attachment member 105 and the foaming member 107 . The bubbling part 107 is located in the bottom of the first subsection 601 and faces upwardly towards the macroalgae attachment part 105 . The bubbling unit 107 receives gas from a conduit 123 which is connected to an external gas source such as an air pump 125 . The gas flowing to the bubbling part 107 is released into the first partition 601 as bubbles and through the bubble opening 121 in the bubbling part 107 . Surface 127 of macroalgae attachment member 105 is aligned with air bubble port 121 such that air bubbles contact surface 127 and travel along surface 127 . In one embodiment, one or more light sources 113 surround the macroalgae attachment member 105 . As shown, the light source 113 is an LED array. However, light source 113 may be any combination of natural or artificial light emitting devices. the

Water is sent into the first partition 601 through the circulation housing 607 as the gas is conveyed through the bubbling member 107 . In one embodiment, the circulation housing 607 is a conduit that draws water from the container 103 . The circulation housing 607 can push water through the lower end of the first partition 601 such that the water flows upward in the first partition 601 . As the water circulates upwards through the first partition 601 , the water and air bubbles overflow from the overflow tank 203 and enter the second partition 603 . Bubbles are collected at the top of the second partition 603 and explode, releasing the corresponding gas to the atmosphere through holes in the compartment 109 . The water can then be diverted to the third subdivision 605 through the lower passage 609, and eventually return into the container 103 through the spout 611. Since the air bubbles are dissipated/exploded in the second partition 603 before the water is returned to the container 103 , the air bubbles from the bubbling member 107 are not transferred to the water in the container 103 . the

As described above, the algae filter 101 forces air bubbles to contact and rub against the macroalgae attachment member 105 . This friction is necessary to promote the growth of algae on the macroalgae attachment member 105 . As shown in Figure 7, the macroalgae attachment member 105 is naturally wet because it is submerged in water. In contrast, the interior of the bubble is dry. The outside of the bubble is wet. Since water cannot absorb _CO2 quickly when the macroalgae-attachment part 105 is wet, not enough _CO2 reaches the macroalgae growing on the macroalgae-attachment part 105 if the part is always wet. However, when the macroalgae-attached member 105 transitions from wet to dry by the air bubbles rubbing against the member 105, _CO2 is delivered directly to the macroalgal tissue and more algae growth occurs.

Although the embodiments of the algae filter 101 discussed herein may be used to grow any type of algae, the preferred algae type is the green hairy variety such as derbasia, enteromorpha (ulva), algae and algae. These types of algae are preferred because they are somewhat transparent to light and water flow. These features allow light and water to reach the roots of the algae attached to the surface 127 . This penetration keeps the roots alive so that the algae bundles do not detach or float away. In one embodiment, particularly for use in the production of biofuels, the macroalgae attachment member 105 is inoculated with the desired species of macroalgae that produce the highest lipid content, gasification, or ethanol production. The algae filter 101 will then be seeded with and ensure the growth of the preferred algae species. Although the algae species described above are preferred, the algae filter 101 can be used to grow any type of algae. the

As noted above, the algae filter 101 can be used in a variety of different containers 103 . In one embodiment, the macroalgae-attached member 105 floats at the surface of a river, lake, ocean, agricultural runoff area, or wastewater containment facility such that the top of the macroalgae-attached member 105 is at the surface of the water and the macroalgae are attached. The bottom of part 105 is deep in the water. The macroalgae attachment 105 can be rotated into shore via a cable for manual or automatic removal/harvesting. In another embodiment, the algae filter 101 is used to make hobby food/gardening/skin care/beer/liquor at home. In this embodiment, the algae filter 101 is supplied with nutrients from the reservoir to ensure that algae have sufficient resources to grow on the macroalgae attachment member 105. the

In one embodiment, an apparatus 101 for filtering water includes: a macroalgae-attachment member 105 defining a first macroalgae-attachment surface 127; and an aeration member 107 comprising a housing 115 and Coupling member 117, housing 115 defining air inlet 119 and a set of bubble ports 121, coupling member 117 secures macroalgae attachment member 105 to bubbler member 107 and connects first macroalgae attachment surface 127 to the set of bubble ports 121 are aligned such that a first portion of the bubbles generated by bubble port 121 are directed into contact with and travel along first macroalgae attachment surface 127 . the

In one embodiment, the kelp-attachment member further defines a second kelp-attachment surface 127 such that a second portion of air bubbles generated by the set of bubble ports 121 are directed into contact with the second kelp-attachment surface 127 And travel along the second macroalgae attachment surface 127 . the

In one embodiment, the first macroalgae attachment surface 127 is defined by a screen. the

In one embodiment, the apparatus 101 further comprises: a compartment 109 in which the macroalgae attachment member 105 and a foaming member 107 are disposed, and an attachment mechanism 111 which couples the compartment 109 to a Container 103 for liquid. the

In one embodiment, the apparatus 101 further includes a light source 113 coupled to the compartment 109 that illuminates the first macroalgae attachment surface 127 to facilitate macroalgal growth. the

In one embodiment, container 103 is an aquarium. the

In one embodiment, container 103 is a swimming pool. the

In one embodiment, container 103 is a natural reservoir. the

In one embodiment, the macroalgae attachment member 105 is releasably coupled to the foaming member 107 such that the macroalgae attachment member 105 can be removed from the compartment 109 and the algae harvested. the

In one embodiment, an apparatus 101 for filtering water includes: a macroalgae attachment member 105 defining a first macroalgae attachment surface 127; and an airflow directing member 201 comprising a housing 205 and A coupling member 209, the housing 205 defining the air inlet 211, the coupling member 209 secures the macroalgae attachment member 105 to the air flow directing member 201 and aligns the macroalgae attachment surface 127 with the air bubble flow from the air inlet 211 such that the A first portion of air bubbles received by the air inlet 211 are directed into contact with and travel along the first macroalgae-attachment surface 127. the

In one embodiment, the airflow directing member 201 further includes a set of diffractive bodies 207 that disperse the first portion of air bubbles along the first macroalgae attachment surface 127 . the

In one embodiment, the airflow guiding part 201 further includes a Venturi valve 303 for generating air bubbles. the

In one embodiment, the device 101 further comprises: a compartment 109, in which the macroalgae attachment member 105 and an air flow guide member 201 are disposed, and an attachment mechanism 111, the attachment mechanism 111 coupling the compartment 109 to a Container 103 for liquid. the

In one embodiment, the apparatus 101 further includes a light source 113 coupled to the housing 205 that illuminates the first macroalgae attachment surface 127 to facilitate macroalgal growth. the

In one embodiment, apparatus 101 also includes collector 301 and collector 401 for directing airflow from air inlet 211 onto first macroalgae attachment surface 127 . the

In one embodiment, the collector 301 defines a set of nozzles to shape the airflow within the airflow guide 201 . the

In one embodiment, container 103 is an aquarium. the

In one embodiment, container 103 is a swimming pool. the

In one embodiment, container 103 is a natural reservoir. the

In one embodiment, the macroalgae attachment member 105 is releasably coupled to the airflow directing member 201 such that the macroalgae attachment member 105 is removable from the compartment 109 and enables the algae to be harvested. the

In one embodiment, an apparatus 101 for filtering water comprises: a macroalgae-attachment member 105 defining a first macroalgae-attachment surface 127; a compartment 109 defining an airflow channel 601 within which a the macroalgae attachment member 105; and the bubbler member 107 comprising a housing 115 defining an air inlet 119 and a set of bubble ports 121 with which the macroalgae attachment surface 127 is aligned such that the A first portion of the bubbles generated by bubble port 121 are directed into contact with and travel along first macroalgae attachment surface 127 . the

Although some embodiments have been described and illustrated in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that these embodiments are only for illustration rather than limitation of the utility model with broad content, and the utility model is not limited to the specific construction and arrangement shown and described, which is Because various other modifications can be made by those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the specification is to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. the

Claims (22)

1. for an equipment for filtered water, it is characterized in that, this equipment comprises:

Macro attachment member (105), described macro attachment member limits the first macro attachment surface (127); With

Foaming parts (107), described foaming parts comprise:

Housing (115), described housing limits inlet mouth (119) and one group of bubble mouth (121); With

Coupling components (117), described coupling components (117) is fixed to described foaming parts (107) by releasable connection by described macro attachment member (105) and described the first macro attachment surface (127) is alignd with described one group of bubble mouth (121), the first part of the bubble that produced by described bubble mouth (121) is guided to and contacts with described the first macro attachment surface (127) and advance along described the first macro attachment surface (127).

2. equipment according to claim 1, it is characterized in that, described macro attachment member also limits the second macro attachment surface (127), the second section of the bubble that produced by described one group of bubble mouth (121) is guided to and contacts with described the second macro attachment surface (127) and advance along described the second macro attachment surface (127).

3. equipment according to claim 1 and 2, is characterized in that, described the first macro attachment surface (127) is limited by filter screen.

4. equipment according to claim 1, is characterized in that, this equipment also comprises:

Compartment (109), is provided with described macro attachment member (105) and described foaming parts (107) in described compartment (109); With

Attachment mechanism (111), described attachment mechanism (111) is connected to the container (103) for liquid by described compartment (109).

5. equipment according to claim 4, is characterized in that, this equipment also comprises:

Be connected to the light source (113) of described compartment (109), described light source (113) irradiates described the first macro attachment surface (127) to contribute to macro growth.

6. equipment according to claim 4, is characterized in that, described container (103) is aquarium.

7. equipment according to claim 4, is characterized in that, described container (103) is swimming pool.

8. equipment according to claim 4, is characterized in that, described container (103) is natural impoundment pond.

9. according to the equipment described in any one in claim 4 to 8, it is characterized in that, described releasable connection makes described macro attachment member (105) from described compartment (109), remove and can make algae to be gathered.

10. for an equipment for filtered water, it is characterized in that, this equipment comprises:

Macro attachment member (105), described macro attachment member (105) limits the first macro attachment surface (127); With

Air-flow guiding parts (201), described air-flow guiding parts comprises:

Housing (205), described housing limits inlet mouth (211) and for making light arrive the parts of described the first macro attachment surface; With

Coupling components (209), described coupling components (209) is fixed to described air-flow guiding parts (201) by described macro attachment member (105) and described macro attachment surface (127) is alignd with the bubble flow from described inlet mouth (211), and the first part that makes to treat the bubble that received by described inlet mouth (211) is guided to and contacts with described the first macro attachment surface (127) and advance along described the first macro attachment surface (127).

11. equipment according to claim 10, is characterized in that, described air-flow guiding parts (201) also comprises one group of diffracting object (207), and described one group of diffracting object disperses the first part of described bubble along described the first macro attachment surface (127).

12. equipment according to claim 10, is characterized in that, described air-flow guiding parts (201) also comprises the venturi valve (303) for generation of bubble.

13. according to the equipment described in claim 10 or 11, it is characterized in that, described the first macro attachment surface (127) is limited by filter screen.

14. equipment according to claim 10, is characterized in that, this equipment also comprises:

Compartment (109), is provided with described macro attachment member (105) and described air-flow guiding parts (201) in described compartment; With

Attachment mechanism (111), described attachment mechanism is connected to the container (103) for liquid by described compartment (109).

15. equipment according to claim 14, is characterized in that, this equipment also comprises:

Be connected to the light source (113) of described housing (205), described light source (113) irradiates described the first macro attachment surface (127) to contribute to macro growth by the parts that make light arrive described the first macro attachment surface.

16. equipment according to claim 10, is characterized in that, this equipment also comprises:

Collector (301,401), described collector is directed to air-flow described the first macro attachment surface (127) from described inlet mouth (211).

17. equipment according to claim 16, is characterized in that, described collector (301) limits one group of nozzle to make described air-flow be shaped in described air-flow guiding parts (201).

18. according to claim 14 to the equipment described in any one in 17, it is characterized in that, described container (103) is aquarium.

19. according to claim 14 to the equipment described in any one in 17, it is characterized in that, described container (103) is swimming pool.

20. according to claim 14 to the equipment described in any one in 17, it is characterized in that, described container (103) is natural impoundment pond.

21. equipment according to claim 14, it is characterized in that, described macro attachment member (105) is connected to releasedly described air-flow guiding parts (201) so that described macro attachment member (105) removes and can make algae to be gathered from described compartment (109).

22. 1 kinds of equipment for filtered water, is characterized in that, this equipment comprises:

Macro attachment member (105), described macro attachment member (105) limits the first macro attachment surface (127);

Compartment (109), described compartment (109) limits gas channel (601) and limits attachment mechanism (111), is provided with described macro attachment member (105) in described compartment, and described attachment mechanism (111) is for being connected described compartment with container; With

Foaming parts (107), described foaming parts (107) comprising:

Housing (115), described housing (115) limits inlet mouth (119) and one group of bubble mouth (121), described macro attachment surface (127) is alignd with described one group of bubble mouth (121), the first part of the bubble that produced by described bubble mouth (121) is guided to and contacts with described the first macro attachment surface (127) and advance along described the first macro attachment surface (127).

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