Automated Biological Growth and Dispensing Apparatus

摘要

An automated biological growth and dispensing apparatus utilizing a modular growing tank which is removable for replacement by another growing tank. Mechanisms for the delivery of air, water and/or nutrients are adapted to permit the growing tank to be readily coupled and uncoupled for easy and inexpensive replacement. Mechanisms for agitation may be integral and removable with the growing tank or may be adapted for a quick connection and disconnection with the growing tank. The growing tank may be disposable and each new growing tank may be provided as a sealed container including a starting amount of a biomass and/or nutrient.

主权项

1. A method of dispensing fluid from a container, the container having a base, side walls extending upwardly from the base and an exit opening at a height above the base,
the method characterized in comprising: providing fluid in the container at a height below the exit opening, providing an impeller in the container rotatable about an axis to discharge fluid impinging on the impeller, rotating the impeller for a period of time at speeds which create and maintain a standing vortex in the container with a height of the standing vortex being below a height of the exit opening, and to dispense fluid from the container, increasing the speed of rotation of the impeller to increase the height of the standing vortex to a height of the exit opening such that fluid above the exit opening exits the container via the exit opening.