FLORAL WASTE TRANSFORMATION SYSTEM UTILIZING REVERSE OSMOSIS FOR NUTRIENT RECOVERY

Abstract

The present invention relates to method of Floral Waste Transformation System (FWTS) presents an innovative solution for the rapid and sustainable management of floral waste. This system utilizes advanced microbial decomposition techniques combined with automated processes to convert organic residues—such as cut flowers and plant trimmings—into high-quality compost and organic fertilizers. By significantly reducing composting time and enhancing nutrient recovery through reverse osmosis, FWTS minimizes landfill contributions and environmental impact, promoting a circular economy within the floral industry. The integration of specialized microbial strains optimizes decomposition efficiency, while automation ensures consistent operation for florists, event planners, and nurseries. FWTS not only addresses the challenges of floral waste disposal but also contributes to sustainable practices by producing valuable end products that support ecological balance.

Specification

Description:FWTS is an innovative solution in the management of flower waste, such as cut flowers, plant trimmings, and other organic residues, bred by florists, events, and nurseries. Advanced microbial technologies are utilized with automatic processes and nutrient recovery methods to transform floral waste into quality composts and organic fertilizers while maximizing sustainability and reducing the impact on the environment.
The FWTS represents cutting-edge, environmentally conscious technology aimed at the severe challenge of dealing with floral waste. The products range from rejected cut flowers, plant trimming, and other organic residues. The system, leveraging the possible applications of microbial technologies, automated processes, and nutrient recovery techniques, transforms floral waste into quality compost and organic fertilizers. Since FSD promotes sustainability and reduces environmental impacts, it is very essential to florists, event planners, and nurseries.
There are several core components to the FWTS, which work together to help maintain an efficient system of composting. The heart of this system is the microbial activation chamber, containing a proprietary blend of beneficial microbes designed specifically for high-speed decomposition. The chamber is controlled at relatively controlled temperatures and humidity to optimize microbial activity, which significantly accelerates the breakdown of many complex organic material types.
An Automated Mixing and Aeration System ensures uniform mixing with an adequate amount of oxygen in the chamber. The system achieves perfect aerobic conditions with mechanical mixing at interval and minimum concentration requirements for oxygen: the odors are minimized, and efficiency is increased. The systems employ the most advanced temperature and humidity control, managed through PID control mechanisms and sophisticated sensors. These mechanisms regulate the level of heating and moisture to maintain optimal conditions, thus further promoting the effectiveness of the microbial population.
The Nutrient Recovery Unit is part of the whole unit that removes valuable nutrients from the compost material using centrifugation and separation through reverse osmosis to produce concentrated liquid organic fertilizer with a balanced N-P-K ratio that makes fertile rich soil, hence growing stronger plants.
The FWTS features a friendly interface with a digital control panel and app, making it accessible to different types of users. It's easy for users to monitor the real-time parameters, customize settings, and even receive updates on the composting process itself.
According to one of the embodiments, Figure 1 (100) detailed about the flow chart depicting the step-by-step process of composting within the FWTS. It illustrates how floral waste is collected (101), inoculated with microbes (102), processed in the activation chamber (103), monitored for temperature (104) and humidity (106), and eventually transformed into compost and liquid fertilizer (110). Decision points help visualize the dynamic adjustments made based on sensor readings.
According to one of the embodiments, Figure 2 (200) detailed about the flow chart a high-level overview of the entire FWTS system, showcasing the interconnections between components such as the Microbial Activation Chamber, Automated Mixing and Aeration System, Temperature & Humidity Control, Nutrient Recovery Unit, and the User-Friendly Interface. It visually represents how floral waste enters the system and the flow of materials through to the end products.
System Components and Technical Details
The microbial activation chamber represents one of the areas key to FWTS, where rapid decomposition of floral waste is being facilitated through the optimized microbial process. This room is the initiation environment where recently produced floral waste in the form of cut flowers and plant clipping mixed with a private proprietary blend of beneficial microorganisms-the selected bacteria and fungi, like Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Trichoderma viride. These are applied at a given ratio; however, it usually lies within the range of 1:10:10 (number of bacteria to number of fungi to mass of waste) to ensure the highest rate of decomposition.
Once the microbial mixture has been inoculated to the floral waste, the chamber is maintained at controlled temperatures around 40°C to 65°C (102). The chamber is first set to around 40°C to 55°C to promote the microbial activity that breaks down the harder organic molecules such as cellulose and lignin. Then it is subjected to the high-temperature range of 55°C to 65°C for extended hours of 72. This period of elevated temperature not only facilitates rapid decomposition but plays a more critical role in pathogen reduction, therefore harmful microorganisms found in floral wastes are totally removed.
Beyond the temperature control, the chamber would have humidity control systems to ensure a moisture level between 50% to 60% relative humidity. This is significant because moisture content can affect microbial survival and activity largely. Low moisture results in the decomposer to shut down the process of decomposition. Sensors continuously monitor the conditions of the inside and give continuous feedback into the real time, thus enabling it to make the proper changes. By providing favorable conditions to the microbial population, the microbial activation chamber ensures uniform decomposition of floral waste and reduces the composting time, while the quality of the final product improves. For after all, such a chamber forms the heart of FWTS where organic wastes are, in fact, converted into nutrient-rich compost efficiently and sustainably.
Automated Mixing and Aeration System
The Automated Mixing and Aeration System is a vital component of the Floral Waste Transformation System (FWTS), designed to meant to create favorable conditions for microbial degradation of floral waste. The entire system is based on the mechanical arms and aeration fans for uniform mixing and proper supply of oxygen within the microbial activation chamber. Automated mixing is done at an interval of usually every 30 minutes in which the mechanical arms would rotate and agitate contents for about 10 minutes (106). This frequent mixing ensured that the microbial inoculant will be well spread throughout the floral waste preventing compaction, thus creating a homogenous space that is conducive for effective decomposing.
The oxygen concentration inside the chamber is also ensured to be at a minimum of 20%, which is important for aerobic decomposition. The aeration fans continued blowing air to ensure air circulation that provided the microorganisms with the required oxygen necessary for metabolism. This thereby prevents anaerobic conditions, which in most times lead to foul odors and poor break down, thereby optimizing efficiency in the whole composting process.
The Automated Mixing and Aeration System with a live monitor has real-time sensors tracing the oxygen level and efficiency of the mix. When the system falls below its threshold, it automatically regulates fan speed and mixing frequency to achieve optimal conditions. Dynamically control intensifies the microbial activity while minimizing the likelihood of odorification; thus, the process is more agreeable and efficient. In the overall process, this system contributes to an important part of how floral waste is turned into high-quality compost by ensuring that it has proper environments for microbial growth and activity.
Temperature and Humidity Control
The temperature and humidity control system is the most important element of the FWTS, designed to provide and maintain optimal environmental conditions for microbial activity within the microbial activation chamber. The most advanced sensors are deployed within this system together with a Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) control mechanism in order to measure and control both temperature and humidity in real time.
The microorganism population is activated by the chamber, which maintains temperatures in the range of 40°C to 55°C; this subsequently raises temperatures at the decomposition stage to between 55°C and 65°C, sustained at this level for 72 hours (104 & 105). It is here that the breakdown of the complex organic compounds with the aid of the controlled high-temperature phase is begun, thereby ensuring that pathogens are eliminated while at the same time improving the quality of the end product-compost.
Besides temperature regulation, the system regulates humidity stringently at its bid to keep the relative humidity around 50-60% (107). Sensors continuously measure the moisture, and at that moment that it reads values beyond those, the system injects water vapor automatically to restore moisture level to optimum. Such regulation is being required in continuing the smooth continuation of microbial activity since retarded and low moisture impedes decomposition.
This integration of real-time feedback mechanisms allows for dynamic adjustments to ensure that the system can promptly respond to changes in temperature or humidity. As such, the temperature and humidity control system guarantees optimal conditions for microbial growth and activity, which, in turn, significantly enhances the efficiency and speed of the composting process into effective transformation of floral waste into nutrient-rich compost. This not only optimizes waste management but further supports the general sustainability goal of FWTS.
Nutrient Recovery Unit
In the nutrient recovery unit, valuable nutrients are being extracted and concentrated from the composted floral waste within the FWTS. This happens only after the decomposition cycle; that is when this unit, with the most advanced techniques of separation and purification, processes the organic material in the most efficient way possible. Dual-stage centrifuges are employed and it runs at approximately 3,000 RPM for 15 minutes in order to fully segregate the liquid from the solid compost, thus maximizing efficiency of nutrient uptake. The mechanical separation maximizes the efficiency in which nutrients are extracted with the nutrient-rich liquid collected while the quality compost remains behind (108).
After the separation process, reverse osmosis is utilized to filter and purify the liquid leachate where all impurities are separated, and concentrates are left of the essential nutrients-nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (109). The final product is organic fertilizer, high quality with well-defined ratio in the N-P-K, around 5-10-5, which has been fit for increasing soil fertility and consequently contributes to the efficient support of growth of any plant.
The Nutrient Recovery Unit is being designed with real-time monitoring capabilities such that an operator can track the levels of nutrients and adjust the parameters of the process as necessary for optimal nutrient quality and minimum waste. The Nutrient Recovery Unit adds value not only to the composting process but also to sustainable agriculture in the provision of a reliable source of organic nutrients. Such a unit plays a very key role in turning floral waste into high-value resources that foster environmental sustainability and circular economy notions within the floral industry.
User-Friendly Interface
The FWTS has a user-friendly interface that acts as the central control hub by improving user interaction and managing the composting process. The interface includes a digital control panel and an additional mobile application, so the user can have access to this information from anywhere and at any time. What makes it very practical is that it allows them to monitor real-time system parameters: temperature, humidity, microbial activity, and overall composting. Such an intuitive design of the system allows users to monitor easily whether the microbial activation chamber is working well, if the automated mixing and aeration system is effective, and whether the nutrient recovery unit is performing efficiently.
The user can set up the interface with specific settings, enabling them to adjust parameters as necessary based on their operational requirements and changing environmental factors. The threshold is being set for temperature and humidity; once these are out of the optimal range, it provides alert to the user and take necessary action to correct. A machine-learning algorithm also assist the control system, analyzing data on the previous composting cycle and making predictions of necessary adjustments in cycles to go forward for maximizing efficiency.
This mobile application also imposes educational material on the correct use of compost, application guidelines of the produced fertilizers, and the health of the soil depending on the soil test result. This cross-platform facilitates the user with all the required knowledge and further simplifies the overall management of the system in every direction. The easy-to-use interface of FWTS offers a sustainable approach to the management of floral waste within the floral industry by allowing its users to tap into every resource on offer as produced by decomposition processes.
Eco-Friendly Design
The eco-friendly design of FWTS is, no doubt, the most optimistic approach to sustainable development and care for the environment: the system is designed to operate without much ecological impact. All the components exposed to organic waste are made from bioplastics, design set on enhancing biodegradability and recyclability while minimising the carbon footprint of the system. It supports a circular economy and is environment-friendly, in accordance with modern standards of environmental protection.
Thus, it makes the FWTS a responsible choice for managing floral waste.
Another feature is integrating energy-saving technologies; the installation is being designed to include solar power. Equipped with up to 500-watt solar panels, the system reduces its reliance on electricity from the grid, with a reduction in energy usage by at least 50%. This renewable source of energy, again, decrease the operating cost and make the system eco-friendlier since it minimizes the emissions of greenhouse gases produced by conventional sources of energy.
Generally, the general design is quite optimized for durability and functionality, where each part work through minimal resource inputs. For example, systems that monitor and control automatically prevent all forms of wastes by giving real-time adjustments, which improve the efficiency of the overall composting process. It transforms floral waste into valuable compost and fertilizers while being an example of a holistic approach to environmental stewardship in the floral industry-a healthier planet for generations to come.
Advantages of the FWTS
There are several advantages that make the FWTS different from other methods utilized in composting. Firstly, by reducing the time used in composting from weeks to days, the system is suitable in businesses characterized by large outputs of floral waste, making use of this waste product effectively. Products acquired at the end are of good quality and the compost is full of nutrient values, and organic fertilizers improves the soil health as well as contribute to sustainable agricultural approaches. Meanwhile, the system contains sustainability features built into its design. It reduces landfill contributions as well as the contribution of greenhouse gases because organic wastes are converted to valuable resources, and it also supports holistic development in the floral industry via circular economy. FWTS is also scalable and adaptable for all manner of applications ranging from small-floral shops to large nurseries or event planners.
Rapid Waste Transformation: The integration of a proprietary microbial blend and controlled environmental conditions reduces composting time from weeks to just a few days, making it ideal for businesses with high floral waste output.
High-Quality End Products: The nutrient recovery unit ensures the production of nutrient-rich compost and organic fertilizers, enhancing soil health and plant growth.
Sustainability: The FWTS reduces landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions by converting floral waste into valuable resources, promoting a circular economy within the floral industry.
Scalability: The system is designed to accommodate various business sizes, from small floral shops to large event planners and nurseries, with customizable sizes and capacities.
Potential Applications
The FWTS can be utilized in various contexts, including floral shops seeking sustainable waste management solutions, event coordinators aiming to handle floral waste from events, and nurseries looking to produce organic fertilizers for healthy plant growth. By offering an innovative approach to composting floral waste, the FWTS not only addresses environmental concerns but also contributes to the overall health of ecosystems and communities.
Floral Shops: To manage floral waste sustainably while producing compost for in-house plants and gardens.
Event Coordinators: To handle floral waste generated from events and create compost for landscaping projects.
Nurseries and Gardening Centers: To produce organic fertilizers that support healthy plant growth and soil enrichment.
The Floral Waste Transformation System (FWTS) represents a significant advancement in the management of floral waste The Floral Waste Transformation System with Reverse Osmosis Nutrient Recovery represents a significant advancement in the management of floral waste. These distinct technical steps-including specialized microbial activation, automated mixing and aeration, controlled environmental conditions, and innovative nutrient recovery methods-the FWTS efficiently transforms waste into valuable compost and fertilizers. This innovative system not only enhances sustainability within the floral industry but also contributes to a greener planet by reducing waste and promoting the responsible use of organic materials.

, Claims:1. A Floral Waste Transformation System (FWTS) comprising:
a microbial activation chamber containing a proprietary blend of microbes specifically designed for the rapid decomposition of floral waste;
an automated mixing and aeration system that maintains optimal aerobic conditions;
a temperature and humidity control system utilizing PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) control mechanisms;
a nutrient recovery unit employing reverse osmosis for extracting and concentrating nutrients from the composting process.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the nutrient recovery unit utilizes a dual-stage centrifuge to efficiently separate solid compost from liquid leachate, enhancing the recovery of valuable nutrients.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the reverse osmosis process in the nutrient recovery unit produces a concentrated organic fertilizer with a defined N-P-K ratio of 1:10:10, specifically tailored to enhance plant growth.
4. The microbial activation chamber of claim 1 is configured to operate at a temperature range of 40°C to 65°C, promoting optimal microbial activity while facilitating the elimination of pathogens during the high-temperature phase.
5. The automated mixing and aeration system of claim 1 operates at predetermined intervals, ensuring thorough mixing of floral waste and microbial inoculants while maintaining a minimum oxygen concentration of 20% to optimize aerobic decomposition.
6. The temperature and humidity control system of claim 1 automatically adjusts environmental conditions in real-time, maintaining humidity levels between 50% and 60% to support effective microbial activity throughout the composting cycle.
7. The user-friendly interface of claim 1 features a machine-learning algorithm that optimizes composting cycles based on historical data, enhancing the overall efficiency of the FWTS and allowing for user-customized settings.
8. The eco-friendly design of claim 1 utilizes bioplastics for components that come into contact with organic waste, ensuring biodegradability and minimal environmental impact while supporting a sustainable waste management system.
9. The FWTS of claim 1 can be powered by integrated solar panels, reducing energy consumption from grid sources by at least 50% and further contributing to the system's sustainability goals.
10. The system of claim 1, wherein the real-time monitoring capabilities allow users to track composting parameters and nutrient concentrations, facilitating data-driven decisions for effective waste management and resource utilization.

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