Invention:
This invention is a large-scale passive solar system for drying large quantities of agricultural waste.
Background:
Environmental efforts have created a demand for an alternative protein source for human consumption. As beef, pork, and chicken protein produces a significant amount of greenhouse gas, there is a need for a complete protein source that provides the same nutrients, that is cheaper to produce and has a lower environmental impact. Insects have been consumed regularly elsewhere for millennia, and over one fourth of the world’s population consumes bugs in their standard diet. Edible insects are eco-friendly, cost efficient, and high in protein.
Mealworms are currently fed grain crops which could otherwise be used for direct human consumption, such as oats or bran. Brewer’s grains and leaves are often composted or fed to other animals, so they could instead be used to feed mealworms. There is a need for a system for drying this agricultural waste using solar power to reduce energy consumption.
Applications:
- Edible insect farming
- Solar drying for agricultural waste
- Solar drying for commercial crops
- Solar heating system for greenhouses in cold regions
Advantages:
- Eco-friendly
- Cost-effective
- Optimized
