Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of photobioreactors, particularly to a system for scraping biofilm panels of a photobioreactor.

BACKGROUND
[0002] Existing technologies in the field of biofilm cultivation systems have biofilm panels that support the growth of photosynthetic microorganisms, which may be used for sequestering carbon dioxide, among other functionalities. During operation, the photosynthetic microorganisms may accumulate (often layer-by-layer) on the biofilm panels and may grow to undesirable sizes that prevent light from penetrating to photosynthetic microorganisms at the lower layers. Further, the photosynthetic microorganisms in the upper layers may also consume other nutrients, such as water, thereby deprive the photosynthetic microorganisms in the lower layers.
[0003] Current methods for removing biomass from surfaces in large biofilm cultivation systems often result in improper and inefficient removal. Manual removal in tight spaces presents significant challenges, including prolonged duration and difficulty in accessing all areas of the surfaces.
[0004] Thus, there is a need for a solution that can efficiently and effectively remove/scrape or reduce thickness of the layers of biofilm adhered to cultivation surfaces, particularly in confined spaces, to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the biofilm cultivation process.

OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0005] A general object of the present disclosure is to provide a pair of scraping arms for scraping biofilm panels of a photobioreactor.
[0006] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a robotic arm scraper system that can move both vertically and horizontally to access and scrape excess photosynthetic microorganisms from multiple biofilm panels.
[0007] Another object of the present disclosure is to reduce the time required for scraping biofilm panels by utilizing a rail system for the robotic arm’s movement.
[0008] Another object of the present disclosure is to enhance efficiency of biofilm cultivation systems by ensuring thorough and consistent removal of photosynthetic microorganisms from the panels.
[0009] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a scraper system that can be easily integrated into existing biofilm cultivation setups, improving their adaptability, maintenance, and productivity.
[0010] The other objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from the following description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated for illustration of the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope thereof.

SUMMARY
[0011] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to an automated system, specifically robotic systems designed for scraping biofilm panels of a photobioreactor.
[0012] In an aspect, a system for scraping biofilm panels of a photobioreactor includes a pair of scraping arms including one or more squeezers configured to operably engage with opposing sides of a lateral surface of a biofilm panel. The system also includes a vertical movement assembly configured to move the pair of scraping arms vertically with respect to the biofilm panel, wherein when the pair of scraping arms are moved vertically, the one or more squeezers are configured to scrub photosynthetic microorganisms from the lateral surface of the biofilm panels.
[0013] In an embodiment, the one or more squeezers are made of rubber.
[0014] In an embodiment, the pair of scraping arms are pivotably attached to the vertical movement assembly, where the pair of scraping arms are configured to pivot in a vertical direction and a horizontal direction.
[0015] In an embodiment, the vertical movement assembly includes an actuator configured to move a carriage vertically along a length of a drive element, and wherein the pair of scrapers are attached to the carriage.
[0016] In an embodiment, a drive element associated with the vertical movement assembly is any one or a combination of, wire and pulley mechanism and a chain-and-sprocket mechanism, and a belt-and-sprocket mechanism.
[0017] In an embodiment, the system includes a horizontal movement assembly configured to operably move the vertical movement assembly in a horizontal direction.
[0018] In an embodiment, the system includes a collection pipe positioned below the pair of scraping arms. Herein, the collection pipe being configured to collect the photosynthetic microorganism scraped by the pair of scraping arms from the biofilm panels due to inclination of the pair of scraping arms with respect to a support structure associated with the vertical movement assembly.
[0019] In an embodiment, the pair of scraping arms is configured to pivot to a position between about 0 degrees to about 91 degrees with respect to the support structure to form the inclination.
[0020] In an embodiment, the pair of scraping arms are configured to operably engage and/or disengage with the biofilm panels by extending and/or retracting, respectively. Herein, the one or more squeezers towards or away from the biofilm panel using a scraper actuator connected to the pair of scraping arms.
[0021] In another aspect, a biofilm stacking assembly for a photobioreactor is disclosed. The biofilm stacking assembly includes one or more H-beams configured to support one or more hollow tubes, wherein the hollow tubes are configured to support a corresponding biofilm panel, wherein the one or more H beams are configured to support one or more biofilm panels, and wherein each of the one or more biofilm panels are positioned to allow independent access by a system for scraping the plurality of biofilm panels.
[0022] In an embodiment, the one or more H-beams are coated with any one or a combination of: epoxy, spray coating, and zinc-nickel electroplating.
[0023] In an additional embodiment, the biofilm stacking assembly further includes a lighting unit, the lighting unit being configured and positioned to provide controlled illumination to support microalgal cultivation and growth on the plurality of biofilms.
[0024] In an additional embodiment, the biofilm stacking assembly further includes pipes. The pipes are arranged to facilitate the flow of water over the plurality of biofilm panels to support microalgal cultivation and growth on the plurality of biofilms.
[0025] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0026] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.
[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary representation of a system for scraping biofilm panels of a photobioreactor, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0028] FIGs. 2A to 2C illustrates an exemplary representation of scraping arms of the system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0029] FIGs. 3A and 3B illustrate an exemplary representation of a biofilm stacking assembly for a photobioreactor, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0030] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary representation of a scalable configuration of the biofilm stacking assembly and the system for scraping biofilm panels, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0031] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[0032] Scraping biomass from the plates in biomass cultivation systems or photobioreactors has been problematic, with improper and inefficient scraping being a significant concern. The accumulation of biofilm on the plates can hinder the efficiency of the cultivation process, leading to reduced productivity and increased maintenance requirements. The need for a reliable and effective method to remove/scrape biofilm from these plates is essential for maintaining optimal operation and ensuring the efficiency of the cultivation system.
[0033] Current solutions for scraping biofilm from biofilm panels are predominantly manual, requiring significant labor and time. Manual scraping is not only labor-intensive but also prone to inconsistencies, resulting in uneven cleaning and potential damage to the biofilm panels. Additionally, manual methods are often impractical for large-scale systems due to the extensive time and effort required to clean each panel thoroughly. The lack of automation in existing solutions further exacerbates these issues, making maintenance of high standards of cleanliness and efficiency in biofilm cultivation systems challenging.
[0034] The disclosed system addresses these issues by providing an automated solution for scraping biofilm panels in a photobioreactor. The system includes a pair of scraping arms with one or more squeezers configured to engage with the lateral surfaces of the biofilm panels. A vertical movement assembly is configured to move the scraping arms vertically, allowing the squeezers to scrub photosynthetic microorganisms across a length-wise direction of the biofilm panels. The automated approach provided in the present disclosure ensures consistent and efficient cleaning, reducing the need for manual labor and minimizing the risk of damage to the panels. The system’s design allows the system to operate in tight spaces and scrape multiple panels, significantly improving the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the cultivation of photosynthetic microorganisms. The vertical movement assembly allows for consistent and uniform cleaning across the entire surface of the biofilm panels, reducing the likelihood of missed spots and enhancing performance of the biofilm panels.
[0035] Embodiments explained herein relate to the field of photobioreactors, particularly to a system for scraping biofilm panels of a photobioreactor.
[0036] FIGs. 1 to 2C illustrate representations of a system (200) for scraping biofilm panels (102) of a photobioreactor (100), in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The system (200) may include a pair of scraping arms (104), each equipped with one or more squeezers (106) (as shown in FIGs. 2A to 2C). The one or more squeezers (106) may be configured to operably engage with opposing sides of a lateral surface of biofilm panels (102) of the photobioreactor (100). In some embodiments, the biofilm panels (102) may have a substantially cuboidal geometric profile, with the lateral surface thereof being defined by rectangular surfaces along length and height of the biofilm panels (102). Multiple biofilm panels (102) of the photobioreactor (100) may be stacked linearly with lateral surfaces of each of the biofilm panels (102) being parallelly placed. The biofilm panels (102) may also be stacked linearly with a gap sufficient enough to help in scraping with the pair of scraping arms (104). The engagement of the squeezers (106) with the lateral surface may enable at least one layer of the photosynthetic microorganisms on the biofilm panel (102) to be scraped.
[0037] The photobioreactor (100) may be a closed, open, or semi-closed/semi-open system, based on preferred mode of exposing the biofilm panels (102) to light. In some embodiments, the photobioreactor (100) may be a photobioreactor as disclosed in Indian Patent filing bearing Application Number 202311030438, which is incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, the photobioreactor (100) may be designed to grow photosynthetic organisms, such as including microalgae, cyanobacteria, and the like, but not limited thereto, under controlled environmental conditions. The photobioreactor (100) may be configured to provide optimal light, temperature, nutrients, and carbondioxide (CO2) to maximize the growth of the photosynthetic microorganisms. Additionally, the photobioreactor (100) may include pipes for water supply configured to hydrate the biofilm panel (102) aside from providing nutrients to the photosynthetic microorganisms adhered to the biofilm panels (102), and a lighting unit configured to provide light to the photosynthetic microorganisms in the biofilm panel (102), as described subsequently in the present disclosure. Example applications of the photobioreactor (100) may include, but not limited to, carbon sequestration, producing biofuels, bioplastics, pharmaceuticals, industrial processes, environmental engineering, wastewater treatment, and food supplements, but not limited thereto. Further, the biofilm panel (102) may be designed to cultivate multiple layers or aggregates of the photosynthetic microorganisms that attach/adhere to the lateral surface of the biofilm panels (102).
[0038] Further, primary material of the biofilm panels (102) may be inert and/or biocompatible. In some embodiments, the biofilm panels (102) may be made of flexible materials that may be configured to facilitate adherence of the photosynthetic microorganisms thereover, and retain nutrients and/or water to facilitate growth. In some embodiments, the biofilm panels (102) may be made of cloth or fabric materials. For example, the biofilm panels (102) may be made of any one or a combination of cotton or jute. The flexible material that makes the biofilm panels (102) may allow for a large surface area to be exposed to light, air, CO2 or nutrients, supporting optimal conditions for microbial growth or photosynthetic activity. The surface of the biofilm panels (102) may be textured or coated to enhance microbial adhesion and biofilm formation.
[0039] In some embodiments, the biofilm panels (102) may be held in place by one or more support rods extending from a frame (such as H-beam (302) of FIGs. 3A and 3B), which may be configured to tautly hold the lateral surface of the biofilm panels (102), enabling effective scraping by the pair of scraping arms (104). The taut exposure of the biofilm panel (102) may prevent folding or creasing, when the pair of scraping arms (104) squeeze the biofilm panel (102) while moving upward or downward, as described subsequently in the present disclosure.
[0040] The system (200) may also include a vertical movement assembly (108) configured to move the pair of scraping arms (104) vertically with respect to the biofilm panels (102). While the pair of scraping arms (104) are moved vertically and the one or more squeezers (106) are operably made to squeeze/abut the lateral surface, the one or more squeezers (106) may be configured to scrape photosynthetic microorganisms from the lateral surface of the biofilm panels (102). The photosynthetic microorganisms adhere to and accumulate on the lateral surface of the biofilm panel (102) layer by layer, may be scraped by the scraping arms (104) as they engage with the outermost layer and are dragged along a length-wise direction of the biofilm panels (102).
[0041] In some embodiments, the one or more squeezers (106) may be made of rubberIn other embodiments, in place of rubber, other materials may also be used to make the one or more squeezers (106), depending on the specific requirements such as flexibility, durability, chemical resistance, and elasticity, among others. Silicone may be a strong alternative due to its excellent flexibility, high-temperature resistance, and biocompatibility, making it ideal for applications requiring both durability and flexibility. Polyurethane (PU) may be another option, known for its durability, flexibility, and resistance to abrasion, making it a good choice for squeezers that experience mechanical stress. Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), a synthetic rubber, may offer good resistance to weather, ozone, and a wide temperature range, providing both flexibility and long-lasting performance. Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) may also be used, which combines properties of rubber and plastic, offering flexibility, ease of molding, and chemical resistance, making them suitable for applications requiring both rubber-like characteristics and ease of processing. Nitrile Rubber (NBR) may also be a good option as a synthetic rubber known for its excellent resistance to oils, fuels, and chemicals, making it ideal for environments where chemical exposure is common. Neoprene, another synthetic rubber, provides good chemical stability, weather resistance, and flexibility in various applications. Further, fluorocarbon elastomers may also be used, which are highly resistant to heat, chemicals, and oils, making them an excellent choice for applications exposed to harsh environments.
[0042] Other materials may be accordingly used based on the requirements. The squeezers (106) may be designed to have strength, sufficient to dislodged or detach at least some portion of the photosynthetic microorganisms from the biofilm panels (102). In some embodiments, the squeezers (106) may have a straight edge that abuts the biofilm panels (102). In other embodiments, the squeezers (106) may have a corrugated contour. Further details of the scarping arms (104) are provided in reference to FIG. 2.
[0043] FIGs. 2A to 2C provide a detailed view of the pair of scraping arms (104) and associated components, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As stated, the pair of scraping arms (104) may be equipped with the one or more squeezers (106). The pair of scraping arms (104) are pivotably attached to the vertical movement assembly (108) using a carriage (124), allowing for flexible movement and efficient scraping of the biofilm panels (102). The pair of scraping arms (104) may be configured to operably engage and/or disengage with the biofilm panels (102) by extending and/or retracting, respectively, the one or more squeezers (106) towards or away from the biofilm panel (102) using a corresponding scraper actuator (122) connected the pair of scraping arms (104). Each of the scraping arms (104) may include a corresponding scraper actuator (122).
[0044] In some embodiments, the scraper actuator (122) may include, but not limited to, a rack and pinion mechanism, a rotatory dial mechanism, spring-loaded mechanism, lever/crank-rod actuated mechanism, and the like, but not limited thereto, which may be operated by a servo motor (not shown). The servo motor may be configured to move the pinion associated with the carriage (124) on the rack, for example, and thereby move the squeezers (106) between an extended position and a retracted position. Similarly, the servo motor may be configured to actuate other mechanisms to operably extend or retract the squeezers (106) from the scraping arms (104). The actuation mechanism may be configured to operably engage and/or disengage with the biofilm panels (102) by extending and/or retracting, respectively, the one or more squeezers (106) outwards or inwards with respect to the biofilm panel (102), thereby allowing for effective contact with and consistent pressure while scraping the biofilm panel. In some embodiments, the squeezers (106) may be extended and caused to abut the lateral surface (or the layers of photosynthetic microorganism adhered thereto), and moved vertically upwards or downwards to scrape the biofilm panels (102). The length of extension of the squeezers (106) may be suitably adapted based on the desired thickness of the photosynthetic microorganisms to be maintained on the biofilm panels (102).
[0045] In some embodiments, the pair of scraping arms (104) may be implemented with two elongated arms or rods that provide structural support and stability to the one or more squeezers (106) during operation. The scraping arms (104) may include provisions (such as a C-shaped contour or a slit) that accommodate the squeezers (106), and the mechanisms that allow for the extension and retraction of the squeezers (106). In some embodiments, the rods/elongated arms may be coupled to the corresponding scrapper actuator (122), for angular movement between the scraping arms (104), thereby allowing the scraping arms (104) to be brought closer together for scraping, or further apart, based on requirements.
[0046] In some embodiments, force of squeezing or position of the scraper arms (104) may be determined/adjusted based on the desired depth of the biomass to be removed from the biofilm panels (102). By adjusting the force squeezing or the position of the pair of scraper arms (104), and the length of extension, it becomes possible to control the thickness of the remaining biofilm layer, which ensures that a desired amount of biomass of the photosynthetic microorganisms remains on the biofilm panels (102) for continued growth while preventing overaccumulation, which may hinder the performance of the photobioreactor (100) efficiency.
[0047] Referring back to FIG. 1, in one embodiment, the vertical movement assembly (108) may include an actuator (112) that moves the carriage (124) vertically along a drive element (114). The drive element (114) may be any one or a combination of, wire and pulley mechanism and a chain-and-sprocket mechanism, and a belt-and-sprocket mechanism, but not limited thereto. The carriage (124) may include wheels, wire, gears, or pinions configured to engage with the drive element (114), and allow the carriage (124) to move along a path defined on the drive element (114). The system (200) may also include a horizontal movement assembly (116) that operably moves the vertical movement assembly (108) in a horizontal direction. In some embodiments, the horizontal movement assembly (116) may be disposed at the top of the vertical movement assembly (108). In other embodiments, the horizontal movement assembly (116) may be disposed at the bottom or below of the vertical movement assembly (108). In further embodiments, the horizontal movement assembly (116) may be disposed at the top and the bottom of the vertical movement assembly (108). The horizontal movement assembly (116) may be implemented similarly to the vertical movement assembly (108). In an exemplary embodiment, the horizontal movement assembly (116) may also include a combination of one or more horizontal rails that allow one or more wheels attached to the vertical movement assembly (108) to roll and move in the horizontal direction defined by the horizontal rails. In some embodiments, the wheels may be actuated by an actuator. The horizontal movement assembly (116) may be configured to move the vertical movement assembly (108) such that the vertical movement assembly (108) may be aligned with each of the biofilm panels (102) of the photobioreactor (100). The horizontal rails may be attached to top and bottom portion of vertical beams (such as H-beams shown in FIG. 3A).
[0048] In some embodiments, the pair of scraping arms (104) may be pivotably attached to the vertical movement assembly (108). In some embodiments, the pair of scraping arms (104) may be configured to pivot in a vertical direction and/or a horizontal direction. The scraping arms (104) may be connected to the vertical movement assembly (108) via a pivoting means, such as a hinge joint, a ball-and-socket joint, or a similar mechanical connector that allows multi-directional movement. This pivoting means enables the scraping arms (104) to adjust their orientation and reach.
[0049] In an embodiment, the system (200) may also include a collection pipe (118) configured collect material scraped from the biofilm panels (102). In some embodiments, each of the pair of scraping arms (104) may further include an internal chamber (115) (as shown in FIG. 2A) configured to temporarily collect the photosynthetic microorganisms scrubbed/scraped from the biofilm panels (102). The collection pipe (118) may be configured to collect biomass when the scraping arms (104) pivot to a position between about 0 degrees to about 91 degrees with respect to a support structure (120) on a vertical axis thereof. The inclination of the scraping arms (104) formed as a result of the pivoting may cause the scraped biomass, accumulated within the internal chamber (115), to fall into the collection pipe (118). For instance, FIG. 2A shows an exemplary pivoted position of the scraping arms (104) at about 91 degrees, and FIG. 2B shows an exemplary pivoted position at about 30 degrees; at such inclinations, the internal chamber (115) is oriented to drain the collected biomass into the collection pipe (118). In some embodiments, while switching the biofilm panels (102), the pair of scraping arms (104) may first pivotable move to 0 degree (as illustrated by the 0-degree position in FIG. 2C) with respect to the support structure (120) to allow the scraping arms (104) to be moved horizontally to other adjacent biofilm panels (102), and then come back from 0 degrees to about 91 degrees angle to allow the scraping arms (104) to scrape the photosynthetic microorganisms from the biofilm panels (102).
[0050] In an exemplary embodiment, the support structure (120) may include a pair of vertical parallel metal rods. The pair of vertical parallel metal rods may be attached to the horizonal movement assembly (116). Further, the support structure (120) may also support the drive elements (114) and the carriage (124), where the carriage (124) may either be slidably engaged to the pair of vertical parallel metal rods or attached to a portion of the drive elements (114), or both, and configured to move the pair of scraping arms (104) in a vertical direction. The carriage (124) may also include attachment means to attach the carriage (124) with the portion of the drive elements (114) or to slidably engage to the pair of vertical parallel metal rods.
[0051] In an exemplary embodiment, scraping of the biofilm panels (102) may be performed by moving the pair of scraping arms (104) from a bottom portion of the biofilm panels (102) to a top portion of the biofilm panels (102), while positioning the pair of scraping arms (104) between about 0 degrees to about 91 degrees with respect to a support structure (120). The movement and the inclination help to collect the removed/scrubbed biomass/photosynthetic microorganisms in the pair of scraping arms (104), and also drop the scraped biomass into the collection pipe (118) through the edges of the pair of scraping arms (104). The collection pipe (118) may be coupled to the H-beams (302) or the support structure. The collection pipe (118) may be aligned with distal end of the arms (104). The collection pipe (118) may be configured to collect the scrapped biomass from the arms (104) when the arms (104) are inclined or pivoted, such as to a 30 degree angle (as shown in FIG. 2B). Such configurations may allow reducing width of the collection pipe (118) laterally, further reducing the cost of materials. The collection pipe (118) is essentially a container designed to gather biomass removed during the scraping process. The collection pipe (118) primary function is to collect and circulate the biomass for further processing or disposal. It should be appreciated that, to a person skilled in the art, the pair of scraping arms (104) may be implemented as robotic arms.
[0052] FIG. 3A and 3B, in combination, illustrate the biofilm stacking assembly (300) for a photobioreactor (such as the photobioreactor (100)), according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The assembly (300) includes one or more H-beams (302), each equipped with one or more clamps (304) configured to hold corresponding hollow tubes (306). The hollow tubes (306) (similar to the support rods) may be configured to support biofilm panels (308) (which may be implemented similarly to the biofilm panels (102)). The hollow tubes (306) may be arranged to tautly hold the biofilm panels (308). The H-beams (302) are designed to support two or more vertical layers of biofilm panels (308). Further, the two or more vertical layers of biofilm panels (308) are positioned to allow independent access by the system (200) for scraping biofilm panels (308).
[0053] In one embodiment, the H-beams (302) may be coated with any one or a combination of: epoxy, spray coating, and zinc-nickel electroplating, to enhance durability and resistance to environmental factors. The biofilm stacking assembly (300) also includes a lighting unit (310). The lighting unit (310) positioned on the H-beams (302) is configured to provide controlled illumination to support microalgal cultivation and growth on the biofilm panels (308). In other embodiments, where the photobioreactor (100) is not placed in an enclosure, ambient light may be used for cultivation of the photosynthetic microorganism.
[0054] In an exemplary embodiment, the lighting unit (310) is strategically positioned to provide optimal illumination for the biofilm panels (308), ensuring that photosynthetic microorganisms receive sufficient light for growth. The lighting unit (310) may include light emitting diodes (LEDs) or other suitable light sources, arranged to deliver uniform and consistent light across the entire surface of the biofilm panels (308).
[0055] Additionally, the biofilm stacking assembly (300) may also include pipes (312) for water supply, arranged to facilitate the flow of water over the biofilm panels (308), ensuring a continuous supply of nutrients as well as photosynthetic microorganisms and preventing the accumulation of unwanted debris. The pipes (312) may be configured to distribute water evenly over the biofilm panels (308), to enhance photosynthetic microorganism adhesion, and support the metabolic activity of the photosynthetic microorganisms.
[0056] The photosynthetic microorganisms on the biofilm panels (308) grow larger than the required size, sometimes, which may block light, reduce nutrient flow, and cause problems such as, but not limited to, increase of panel weight, detachment, or clogging. To keep things running smoothly, it is important to scrape off the extra biofilm. Scraping helps maintain the right thickness so the photobioreactor (100) can work efficiently and continue supporting proper growth.
[0057] In one exemplary embodiment, the system (200) or the photobioreactor (100) may additionally include a control unit (not shown) equipped with a memory and a processor. The memory may be configured to store instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the system (300) to regulate the scraping functionality by controlling the amount of scraping and the precise positioning of the pair of scraping arms (104) to maintain the desired biofilm thickness. Additionally, the control unit manages the illumination of the lighting unit (310) to ensure optimal light exposure for photosynthetic growth. The control unit may also regulate the flow of water through the pipes (312), ensuring a consistent and even distribution of water and/or other nutrients across the biofilm panels (308).
[0058] Furthermore, the control unit may be configured to monitor and manage operation of the photobioreactor (100), with an objective to maximize the efficiency and yield of photosynthetic microorganism cultivation. This may involve the control unit being operably connected to various sensors (not shown) to monitor a plurality of parameters in real-time. For example, the control unit may monitor light intensity, comparing it against preset optimal ranges for the specific microorganisms being cultivated, and dynamically adjust the output of the lighting unit (310) accordingly. The control unit may also detect and assess the growth of biofilm on the surfaces of the biofilm panels (308), evaluating characteristics such as thickness, coverage, and potentially even health indicators, to schedule and modulate the scraping operations performed by the system (200). Beyond physical parameters, the control unit could also be programmed to monitor for conditions that may necessitate corrective actions, such as the detection of contaminants or pests, thereby triggering alerts or even automated responses like the controlled application of an insecticide if deemed necessary and integrated into the system. By continuously processing sensor data and executing pre-programmed or adaptive control logic, the controller monitors the overall health of the cultivation environment and controls various operational aspects to maintain optimal conditions, thereby striving to maximize cultivation output and system stability.
[0059] FIG. 4 illustrates a scalable configuration (400) of the biofilm stacking assembly (300) and the system (200) for mass production of the biofilm panels (402), according to one or more embodiment of the present disclosure. The scalable configuration (400) may include a plurality of the biofilm stacking assembly (300) assembled in a vertical configuration. The biofilm stacking assembly (300) may also be assembled in a horizontal configuration. Each of the assemblies (300) may include a dedicated scraping system (with similar structure of the system (200)) for scraping biofilm panels (402) (which may be implemented similarly to biofilm panels (102, 308)). The assembly (300) may be configured to support multiple photobioreactors (100) through the assemblies (300), such as for industrial applications. However, other optimized combinations of scraping systems for the biofilm panels (402) over vertical and horizontal configurations may be employed for speeding up the mass production.
[0060] Compared to existing manual scraping methods, the present disclosure provides an automated system that significantly reduces the time and labor required for maintenance, thereby increasing operational efficiency. The ability to automate the scraping process also minimizes human error and ensures a more consistent cleaning process, which is crucial for maintaining optimal conditions for microalgal cultivation. Additionally, the system’s design allows for operation in tight spaces, making the system suitable for use in densely packed photobioreactor setups where manual scraping would be challenging. This automated approach not only improves the efficiency of biofilm panel maintenance but also enhances the overall productivity of the photobioreactor system.
[0061] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the disclosure, other and further embodiments of the disclosure may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the disclosure is determined by the claims that follow. The disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments, versions, or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the disclosure when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0062] The present disclosure provides a system to automate the scraping process for biofilm panels, significantly reducing the need for manual labor and minimizing human error. This leads to more consistent and efficient scraping of the biofilm panels.
[0063] The present disclosure provides robotic arms implemented by a pair of scraping arms, designed to operate in tight spaces, making it suitable for densely packed photobioreactor setups where manual scraping would be challenging.
[0064] The present disclosure provides a horizontal and vertical movement assembly for the scraping arm’s movement, to further reduce the time required for scraping biofilm panels, enhancing overall operational efficiency.
[0065] The present disclosure provides an automated system to improve the efficiency of biofilm panel maintenance, leading to increased productivity of the photobioreactor system.
[0066] The present disclosure provides a lighting unit and pipes for water supply in the biofilm stacking assembly providing controlled illumination and hydration, supporting optimal photosynthetic microorganism and growth.
, Claims:1. A system (200) for scraping biofilm panels (102) of a photobioreactor (100), the system (200) comprising:
a pair of scraping arms (104) comprising one or more squeezers (106) configured to operably engage with opposing sides of a lateral surface of a biofilm panel (102); and
a vertical movement assembly (108) configured to operably move the pair of scraping arms (104) vertically with respect to the biofilm panels (102), wherein when the pair of scraping arms (104) are moved vertically, the one or more squeezers (106) are configured to operably scrub photosynthetic microorganisms from the lateral surface of the biofilm panels (102).
2. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more squeezers (106) are made of rubber.
3. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pair of scraping arms (104) are pivotably attached to the vertical movement assembly (108), and wherein the pair of scraping arms (104) are configured to pivot in a vertical direction and/or a horizontal direction.
4. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vertical movement assembly (108) comprises an actuator (112) configured to move a carriage (124) vertically along a length of a drive element (114), and wherein the pair of scraping arms (104) are attached to the carriage (124).
5. The system (200) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the drive element (114) associated with the vertical movement assembly (108), comprises any one or a combination of: a chain-and-sprocket mechanism, and a belt-and-sprocket mechanism.
6. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (200) comprises a horizontal movement assembly (116) configured to operably move the vertical movement assembly (108) in a horizontal direction.
7. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (200) comprises a collection pipe (118) configured to collect the photosynthetic microorganism scraped by the pair of scraping arms (104) from the biofilm panels (102) due to inclination of the pair of scraping arms (104) with respect to a support structure (120) associated with the vertical movement assembly (108).
8. The system (200) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the pair of scraping arms (104) is configured to pivot to a position between about 0 degrees to about 91 degrees with respect to the support structure (120) to form the inclination.
9. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pair of scraping arms (104) are configured to operably engage and/or disengage with the biofilm panels (102) by extending and/or retracting, respectively, the one or more squeezers (106) towards or away from the biofilm panel (102) using a scraper actuator (122) connected to the pair of scraping arms (104).
10. A biofilm stacking assembly (300) for a photobioreactor (100), comprising:
one or more H-beams (302) configured to support one or more hollow tubes (306), wherein the hollow tubes (306) are configured to support a corresponding biofilm panel (308), wherein the one or more H beams (302) are configured to support one or more biofilm panels (308), and wherein each of the one or more biofilm panels (308) is positioned to allow independent access by a system (200) for scraping the plurality of biofilm panels (308).
11. The biofilm stacking assembly (300) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the one or more H-beams (302) are coated with any one or a combination of: epoxy, spray coating, and zinc-nickel electroplating.
12. The biofilm stacking assembly (300) as claimed in claim 10, further comprises pipes (312) arranged to facilitate the flow of water over the plurality of biofilm panels (308) to support the photosynthetic microorganisms and growth on the plurality of biofilms panels (308).