Method and apparatus for robotic ocean farming for food and energy

This invention describes a robotic ocean farm that uses a large grid to grow plants like seaweed or algae. A fleet of autonomous boats tows and positions the grid, allowing it to surface for sunlight and submerge to a specific depth for nutrient-rich water. The boats work together to navigate the open ocean, following natural currents, and maintain the grid's shape, while a separate station harvests the plants and replenishes the farm.

Why it matters: Filed in 2010, this system relies heavily on autonomous marine navigation, precise positioning, and coordinated multi-vessel operation. Since then, advancements in marine robotics, AI-driven navigation, and robust satellite communication systems have made such large-scale, distributed autonomous ocean systems far more feasible and efficient.

Status: Not in forceListed as no longer active. The specific reason is not in the record we hold.
How hard to build: SpecializedMarine robotics, large structures, navigation, communication software.

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