This Phase n project is aimed at the development of a new automatic device (the UltraGraderlM) for size sorting aquacultured fish. This system will efficiently sort and count fish with minimum manual labor and without harm to the fish. One novel aspect is the ability to sort and count fish by length or thickness by using both photoelectric and ultrasonic sensors. The unique fish handling system separates fish from each other and guides them through the sensor section, where their length and width are measured. From this data, their weights are estimated, and they are automatically diverted into the appropriate output location. This Phase n program continues the successful Phase I effort, which showed basic proof-of-principle and operational characteristics. The Phase II efforts include: 1) Improving the basic operation of the Phase I system to provide microprocessor operation, low error sensing, and improved acceleration and diversion; 2) Constructing an alpha prototype suitable for different sized fish; 3) Testing the system at the prototype level at the Freshwater Institute, a controlled research environment; 4) Completing and summarizing all research, development, and design documentation, as a foundation for pre-production work; 5) Field demonstration, as time permits.Applications:There is a proven market for both minnow counting and fingerling sizing. It is expected that the system will later be expanded to handle harvest sized salmonids, catfish and other species as the market is developed. Near term sales (first 5 years) of this sorting/grading product are projected at more than 800 units at prices from $6,000 to $9,000 each. The aquaculture market itself is expanding at a rate of 5% per year, and this product will have a sign)ficant impact on efficiency and product consistency.
