Autonomous wave-powered substance distribution vessels for fertilizing plankton, feeding fish, and sequestering carbon from the atmosphere

摘要

This invention provides a vessel system and methodology that can be used to promote growth of phytoplankton in the oceans. Unmanned self-controlled wave-powered vessels are equipped with storage units for dispensing a fertilizer, and with sensors to monitor ocean conditions and effects. Fleets of vessels move autonomously by on-board processing of GPS and directional information, piloting a path that is coordinated by a central processing unit. The vessels travel through a defined target area, creating a detailed survey of chemical and biological characteristics that affect grown. The data are processed in a computer model to identify precise locations and precise amounts of fertilizer that will produce the best results. Projected benefits of fertilizing plankton include sequestering CO2 from the atmosphere, and enhancing the marine food chain to improve the fish stock in and around the treated area.

主权项

1. A fleet comprising:
(1) a plurality of autonomous substance distribution vessels, each of which comprises
a) a storage unit configured to release a solid substance into water in which the substance distribution vessel is traveling;b) electronics configured to sense the geographical location of the vessel;c) a microprocessor programmed to steer the vessel in accordance with its location; and (2) one or more autonomous monitor vessels that comprise:
a) one or more sensors configured to determine a condition of water and/or air that is next to or nearby the monitor vessel; andb) a wireless transmitter configured to transmit data from the sensors on the monitor vessel to the substance distribution vessels or a central control unit; wherein the microprocessor on each substance distribution vessel is programmed to adjust release from the storage unit according to data received from the monitor vessels either directly or by way of the central control unit in accordance with the location of the substance distribution vessel.