Description:4. DESCRIPTION

Technical Field of the Invention

The invention relates to the field of water quality management and control, specifically focusing on inhibiting algal growth and biofilm formation in water bodies using an energy-efficient floating buoy equipped with low-power ultrasonic transducers, solar panels, and remote control capabilities.

Background of the Invention

The growth of algae and formation of biofilm in water reservoirs, whether natural or artificial, pose significant challenges to water quality. In open water reservoirs, algae utilize sunlight during the day, leading to increased biomass loading. Closed water bodies, on the other hand, experience the growth of biofilm and microorganisms, causing blockages and equipment malfunctions. Traditional approaches such as dosing coagulant-flocculants or manual cleaning of storage tanks are expensive, time-consuming, and disrupt water supply. Ultrasound has been explored as a non-invasive method to control algae growth, but scalability and energy consumption issues have limited its widespread adoption.

High-power ultrasound devices rely on cavitation, the formation and collapse of vapor bubbles, to damage algae and microorganisms. However, these devices are energy-intensive, require maintenance, and are most effective in flowing water. Low-power ultrasonic systems create mild vibrations and a pressure zone that prevent algae from reaching the water surface, but their coverage is limited and continuous electrical power supply is needed. Additionally, installing ultrasound devices only on the banks of large water bodies is impractical.

The present invention addresses these drawbacks through several key developments. Firstly, multiple low power ultrasonic transmitting units are fixed together to cover a circular area surrounding the system. Secondly, these units are mounted in a buoy positioned in the middle of the waterbody. Thirdly, a floating platform houses a solar power generator, storage battery, and the multiple unit module, enabling independent operation. Furthermore, the invention includes water quality testing probes, provisions for remote control movement, and data transfer to a central location.

While off-the-shelf floating devices, solar generators, and testing devices are available, integrating these components for seamless operation presents a challenge. The transducers, which consume varying amounts of power with high peak loads, require careful design and programming to deliver multiple frequency ultrasound waves and avoid excessive power demand.

Current state-of-the-art devices face limitations in managing power supply for all sections of the floating device, remotely controlling its movement within large water bodies, and designing the multiple transducer module for efficient power usage.

By addressing these challenges, the invention aims to provide an innovative solution for inhibiting algae growth and biofilm formation in water reservoirs, offering improved scalability, energy efficiency, and effective coverage.

Brief Summary of the Invention

The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding to the reader. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure, and it does not identify key/critical elements of the invention or delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts disclosed herein in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The present invention discloses an energy-efficient floating buoy designed to inhibit algal growth in water bodies through a non-invasive approach. The buoy incorporates innovative features such as solar panels, low-power ultrasonic transducers, a floating platform with Sponsons, a lithium battery, multiple water quality monitoring sensors, an online IoT-based data transfer facility, and a marine propulsion system or jet-drive electric miniature remote control boats.

Objects:
a) Provide an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly solution for inhibiting algal growth in water bodies.
b) Enable continuous real-time monitoring of water quality parameters for early detection of abnormal conditions.
c) Improve the effectiveness of algal growth prediction and prevention measures.
d) Facilitate prompt response and decision-making to mitigate potential environmental and health risks.

Advantages:
a) The utilization of solar panels and energy storage units allows the buoy to operate autonomously, harnessing renewable energy during daylight hours and utilizing stored battery power during nighttime hours.
b) The arrangement of low-power ultrasonic transducers in a 360-degree configuration provides comprehensive coverage to effectively inhibit algal growth in various water bodies.
c) Integration of multiple water quality monitoring sensors, including pH, temperature, chlorophyll, turbidity, and cyanotoxins, combined with IoT systems, enables real-time monitoring, accurate data collection, and advanced analytics for precise prediction of algal growth.
d) An automated alert system promptly notifies relevant authorities or users when abnormal water quality conditions or excessive algal growth are detected, allowing for timely intervention and mitigation measures.
e) The buoy's marine propulsion system or remote control boats enable precise and controlled movement, facilitating repositioning or anchoring as required.
f) An auto-cleaning mechanism with specially designed wipers ensures optimal performance by periodically removing any accumulated debris or fouling.

Applications:
a) Large water bodies such as lakes, reservoirs, and dams, where algal blooms pose a significant ecological and economic challenge.
b) Recreational water facilities like swimming pools, water parks, and resorts, where preventing algal growth is essential for maintaining water quality and user satisfaction.
c) Aquaculture operations and fish culture ponds, where controlling algal growth is crucial for the health and productivity of aquatic organisms.
d) Industrial water storage facilities, including tanks and reservoirs, where inhibiting algal growth is vital to prevent contamination and ensure water quality for industrial processes.

In summary, the energy-efficient floating buoy presented in this invention offers a sustainable and technologically advanced solution for inhibiting algal growth in various water bodies. With its energy efficiency, comprehensive monitoring capabilities, precise movement control, and prompt alert system, the buoy finds applications in diverse settings where preventing and mitigating algal growth is of utmost importance for environmental preservation, public health, and industrial processes.

Further objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be readily apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments thereof, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The invention will be further understood from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment taken in conjunction with an appended drawing, in which:

Fig. 1 illustrates the entire buyo according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2 illustrates the bottom view of the buyo according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 3 illustrates the front view of the buyo according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description of the Invention

It is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. In addition, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

The use of “including”, “comprising” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. Further, the use of terms “first”, “second”, and “third”, and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an energy-efficient floating buoy for inhibiting algal growth in water bodies is disclosed. The buoy system comprises a solar panel with a charge controller, and power storage units. The buoy system also comprises multiple low-power ultrasonic transducers, a floating platform attached with floaters, a metal UV resistive frame, and a small engine with a marine propulsion system or a jet-drive electric miniature remote control boat.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the buoy system also comprises multiple water quality monitoring sensors integrated with IoT systems, and an online IoT-based data transfer facility.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the solar panels integrated with the buoy operates the system during the day and the stored battery power during the night.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the buoy system also comprises anchors for anchoring the buoy to the bottom. The multiple water quality monitoring sensors of the system works for real-time monitoring, prediction of algal growth, and taking appropriate actions.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the transducers of the system are arranged in a typical manner with an angle of 120 degrees between each other to cover a 360-degree range surrounding the buoy. In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the transducers emit low-power ultrasound waves below the cavitation threshold to prevent algal growth.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the floaters of the system are attached to the bottom of the buoy and a metal UV resistive frame holds the floating platform.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the buoy operates with a single control designed to uniform energy demand by introducing a time lag between the transducers.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the buoy system also comprises an auto-cleaning mechanism with specially designed wipers for intermittent cleaning.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the buoy system can cover a wide range in stagnant water bodies with minimal attenuation of the ultrasonic wave, and multiple systems can be installed to cover dead zones caused by physical obstructions.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the buoy system is equipped with a marine propulsion system or a jet-drive electric miniature remote control boat for changing the location of the system when required.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the multiple water quality monitoring sensors of the buoy system includes sensors for measuring pH, temperature, chlorophyll, turbidity, and cyanotoxins, integrated with IoT systems for real-time monitoring, prediction of algal growth, and implementing appropriate measures.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the buoy system also comprises a communication module for transmitting the collected water quality data and operational information to a remote monitoring system for analysis and decision-making.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the solar panels of the buoy system are positioned on the buoy to maximize exposure to sunlight and are equipped with a charge controller and power storage units for efficient utilization of solar energy.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the low-power ultrasonic transducers of the buoy system are configured to emit ultrasound waves in a pulse mode, effectively inhibiting algal growth without causing cavitation.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the small engine of the buoy system with a marine propulsion system or a jet-drive electric miniature remote control boat enables precise and controlled movement of the buoy within the water body.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the buoy is designed to withstand UV radiation and harsh aquatic environments, ensuring its longevity and reliability in algal growth inhibition.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the buoy system also comprises a remote control system that allows remote monitoring and control of the buoy's operations, including movement, ultrasonic emission, and data transmission.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the online IoT-based data transfer facility of the buoy system enables seamless integration with existing water quality monitoring networks and facilitates real-time data sharing with relevant stakeholders for timely decision-making.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the buoy system is equipped with an automated alert system that notifies users or authorities when abnormal water quality conditions or excessive algal growth are detected, enabling prompt action to mitigate potential environmental or health risks.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the buoy system is scalable and adaptable to different water body sizes, allowing efficient and targeted algal growth inhibition in various aquatic environments.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the buoy system is designed with eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes, promoting sustainability and minimizing environmental impact.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a method of inhibiting algal growth in a water body comprising the steps of:
a) Deploying an energy-efficient floating buoy comprising a floating platform, multiple low-power ultrasonic transducers, solar panels, a power storage unit, multiple water quality monitoring sensors, and an online IoT-based data transfer facility;
b) Positioning the buoy in the water body to cover a desired area;
c) Activating the ultrasonic transducers to emit low-power ultrasound waves in a mild vibration mode, below the cavitation threshold, to inhibit algal growth and prevent the formation of algal colonies;
d) Monitoring water quality parameters using the multiple water quality monitoring sensors integrated with IoT systems for real-time monitoring of pH, temperature, chlorophyll, turbidity, and cyanotoxins;
e) Transmitting the collected water quality data and operational information to a remote monitoring system for analysis and decision-making;
f) Operating the buoy using solar power during daylight hours and utilizing stored battery power during nighttime hours;
g) Controlling the movement of the buoy using a small engine with a propeller or a jet-drive electric miniature remote control boat, as required for repositioning or anchoring;
h) Employing an auto-cleaning mechanism to periodically clean the buoy and ensure optimal performance;
i) Analyzing the real-time water quality data and making informed decisions to take appropriate measures to prevent and mitigate algal growth in the water body; and
j) Notifying relevant authorities or users of abnormal water quality conditions or excessive algal growth, facilitating prompt action for environmental and health protection.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a method of manufacturing an energy-efficient floating buoy for inhibiting algal growth in water bodies, comprising the steps of:
a) Providing a floating platform;
b) Attaching floaters to the bottom of the floating platform;
c) Integrating multiple low-power ultrasonic transducers into the floating platform to be submerged in the water, arranged in a manner to cover a 360-degree range surrounding the buoy;
d) Installing solar panels onto the floating platform and connecting them with a charge controller and power storage units;
e) Incorporating a power storage unit inside into a waterproof box and connecting it to the solar panels and power storage units;
f) Integrating multiple water quality monitoring sensors, including pH, temperature, chlorophyll, turbidity, and cyanotoxins sensors, into the floating platform;
g) Establishing an online IoT-based data transfer facility to enable real-time monitoring and data transmission;
h) Attaching a small engine with a propeller or a jet-drive electric miniature remote control boat to the floating platform for movement and repositioning purposes;
i) Providing anchoring mechanisms for the buoy to be securely anchored to the bottom when required;
j) Incorporating an auto-cleaning mechanism with specially designed wipers for periodic cleaning of the buoy;
k) Testing and calibrating the buoy components for functionality and performance;
l) Assembling all the components, ensuring proper connections and waterproofing measures;
m) Conducting quality control checks to ensure compliance with design specifications and standards; and
n) Packaging the energy-efficient floating buoy for shipment and distribution.

Referring to figs, Fig. 1 showcases the complete construction of the buoy system designed to inhibit algal growth. It consists of two solar panels (1) for capturing solar energy, which is regulated by a charge controller (7) and stored in power storage units (8). The system includes a submerged platform that houses ultrasonic transmitters (2) and floaters (3) attached to the bottom. A sturdy metal UV resistive frame (4) provides structural support to the floating platform.

Fig. 2: This view offers a bottom perspective of the buoy, highlighting the arrangement of three ultrasonic transmitters (5) positioned at 120-degree intervals to ensure comprehensive coverage of the surrounding 360-degree area. The transmitters operate in pulse mode, generating low-power ultrasound waves to impede algal growth. Additionally, the buoy features a small engine (6) beneath the platform, enabling convenient relocation or the option of utilizing jet-drive electric miniature remote control boats with their own batteries and powerful motors, which can be trickle charged from the main battery bank.

Fig. 3: The front perspective view of the buoy provides a closer look at the configuration of the charge controller (7) and battery (8) enclosed within a waterproof box. This arrangement ensures efficient management and utilization of solar power, enabling the buoy system to operate autonomously.

Construction:
The buoy system, as depicted in Fig. 1, is designed as a comprehensive solution for inhibiting algal growth in water reservoirs. It incorporates several key components:
a) Solar Panels (1): Two solar panels are integrated into the buoy (1) to harness solar energy for power generation.
b) Charge Controller (7): The charge controller (7) regulates the incoming solar energy, ensuring optimal charging of the power storage units (8).
c) Power Storage Units (8): These power storage units (8) store the harvested solar energy to provide continuous power supply to the buoy system.
d) Ultrasonic Transmitters (2): Positioned on a submerged platform, the ultrasonic transmitters (2) emit low-power ultrasound waves to impede the growth of algae.
e) Floaters (3): Attached to the bottom of the buoy (1), these floaters (3) assist in stabilizing the system and maintaining buoyancy.
f) Metal UV Resistive Frame (4): The sturdy metal UV resistive frame (4) provides structural support to the floating platform, ensuring stability and durability of the buoy system.

Working:
The buoy system operates based on the following principles:
a) Solar Power Generation: The solar panels (1) capture sunlight and convert it into electrical energy.
b) Power Storage: The charge controller (7) regulates the incoming solar energy, which is stored in the power storage units (8) for continuous power supply, even during nighttime hours.
c) Algae Growth Inhibition: The ultrasonic transmitters (2), positioned on the submerged platform, emit low-power ultrasound waves. These waves create a pressure zone on the water's surface, preventing algae from floating and accessing sunlight for growth.
d) Buoyancy and Stability: The floaters (3) attached to the bottom of the buoy (1) and the metal UV resistive frame (4) ensure buoyancy and structural stability, respectively.

Method of Use:
The buoy system is employed to control algal growth and maintain water quality in various water bodies. The following steps outline its method of use:

a) Installation: The buoy system is installed in the target water body, ensuring proper placement and anchoring.
b) Solar Power Operation: During daylight hours, the solar panels (1) capture solar energy, which is converted into electrical energy and stored in the power storage units (8). This powers the system and its components.
c) Algal Growth Prevention: The ultrasonic transmitters (2) emit low-power ultrasound waves, forming a barrier that inhibits algae from reaching the water surface and impeding their growth.
d) Monitoring and Data Transfer: Integrated water quality monitoring probes collect data on pH, temperature, chlorophyll, turbidity, cyanotoxins, etc. This data is transferred via IoT systems to a central location for real-time monitoring, analysis, and decision-making.
e) Mobility (Optional): The buoy system can be equipped with a small engine (6) or jet-drive electric miniature remote control boats, allowing for controlled movement within the water body, if required.
f) Power Management: The system operates primarily on solar power during the day, utilizing stored power during nighttime hours. The charge controller (7) ensures efficient power distribution and prevents overload.

In summary, the buoy system's construction, working, and method of use involve harnessing solar energy, emitting low-power ultrasound waves, ensuring buoyancy and stability, and enabling real-time monitoring for effective control of algal growth and water quality management.

Examples:
Field trials were carried out at two different sites and the observations are summarized in Table 1:

Table 1:
Location Approx. area Duration of trial Observations
Secondary clarifier in local industry 50 m diameter 1 year 60% reduction in the turbidity caused from algal growth from 120 NTU within 2 months
Local natural pond 40*35 sq. meter 1.5 year • Visible reduction in floating algae on the surface with 85% area free of algae.
• Reduction in organic matter content
• Increased transparency
• Increased dissolved oxygen content

, Claims:CLAIMS
I/We Claim
1. An energy-efficient floating buoy (100) for inhibiting algal growth in water bodies, comprising:
a solar panel (1) with a charge controller (7) and power storage units (8);
multiple low-power ultrasonic transducers (5);
a floating platform attached with floaters (3);
a metal UV resistive frame (4);
a small engine (6) with a marine propulsion system or a jet-drive electric miniature remote control boat;
an online IoT-based data transfer facility;
an auto-cleaning mechanism with specially designed wipers for intermittent cleaning;
an automated alert system;
multiple water quality monitoring sensors integrated with IoT systems, wherein the multiple water quality monitoring sensors works for real-time monitoring, prediction of algal growth, and taking appropriate actions;
anchors for anchoring the buoy to the bottom;
the solar panels (1) integrated with the buoy to operate during the day and the stored battery power during the night;
the automated alert system that notifies users or authorities when abnormal water quality conditions or excessive algal growth are detected, enabling prompt action to mitigate potential environmental or health risks;
Characterized in that
the transducers (5) are arranged in a typical manner with an angle of 120 degrees between each other to cover a 360-degree range surrounding the buoy;
the floaters (3) are attached to the bottom of the buoy and a metal UV resistive frame (4) holds the floating platform;
the transducers (5) emitting low-power ultrasound waves below the cavitation threshold to prevent algal growth; and
the buoy operates with a single control designed to uniform energy demand by introducing a time lag between the transducers.

2. The buoy as claimed in claim 1, capable of covering a wide range in stagnant water bodies with minimal attenuation of the ultrasonic wave, and multiple systems can be installed to cover dead zones caused by physical obstructions.

3. The buoy as claimed in claim 1, equipped with a marine propulsion system or a jet-drive electric miniature remote control boat for changing the location of the system when required.

4. The buoy as claimed in claim 1, comprising a communication module for transmitting the collected water quality data and operational information to a remote monitoring system for analysis and decision-making.

5. The buoy as claimed in claim 1, wherein the solar panels (1) are positioned on the buoy to maximize exposure to sunlight and are equipped with a charge controller (7) and power storage units (8) for efficient utilization of solar energy.

6. The buoy as claimed in claim 1, wherein the low-power ultrasonic transducers (5) are configured to emit ultrasound waves in a pulse mode, effectively inhibiting algal growth without causing cavitation.

7. The buoy as claimed in claim 1, wherein the small engine (6) with a marine propulsion system or a jet-drive electric miniature remote control boat enables precise and controlled movement of the buoy within the water body.

8. The buoy as claimed in claim 1, comprising a remote control system that allows remote monitoring and control of the buoy's operations, including movement, ultrasonic emission, and data transmission.

9. The buoy as claimed in claim 1, equipped with an automated alert system that notifies users or authorities when abnormal water quality conditions or excessive algal growth are detected, enabling prompt action to mitigate potential environmental or health risks.

10. A method of inhibiting algal growth in a water body using energy-efficient floating buoy (100), comprising the steps of:
a) deploying the energy-efficient floating buoy (100) comprising a floating platform, multiple low-power ultrasonic transducers (5), solar panels (1), a lithium battery (8), multiple water quality monitoring sensors, and an online IoT-based data transfer facility;
b) positioning the buoy (100) in the water body to cover a desired area;
c) activating the ultrasonic transducers (5) to emit low-power ultrasound waves in a mild vibration mode, below the cavitation threshold, to inhibit algal growth and prevent the formation of algal colonies;
d) monitoring water quality parameters using the multiple water quality monitoring sensors integrated with IoT systems for real-time monitoring of pH, temperature, chlorophyll, turbidity, and cyanotoxins;
e) transmitting the collected water quality data and operational information to a remote monitoring system for analysis and decision-making;
f) operating the buoy using solar power during daylight hours and utilizing stored battery power during nighttime hours;
g) controlling the movement of the buoy using a small engine (6) with a propeller or a jet-drive electric miniature remote control boat, as required for repositioning or anchoring;
h) employing an auto-cleaning mechanism to periodically clean the buoy and ensure optimal performance;
i) analyzing the real-time water quality data and making informed decisions to take appropriate measures to prevent and mitigate algal growth in the water body; and
j) notifying relevant authorities or users of abnormal water quality conditions or excessive algal growth, facilitating prompt action for environmental and health protection.