An automatic feeding device designed for marine aquaculture operations
LKK Design partnered with Dalian Smart Fishery Technology Co., Ltd. to develop an intelligent feeding machine that addresses critical industry challenges. Through our comprehensive product development process, we created a solution that enables precise feeding, reduces operational costs, and enhances feeding efficiency in modern aquaculture operations.
Dalian Smart Fishery sought to transform traditional feeding methods characterized by:
Inefficient feed distribution
Significant feed waste
Lack of monitoring capabilities
Poor adaptation to different farming environments
Key design objectives included:
Adaptability: Handling pellet sizes from 1-16mm
Precision Control: Adjustable throwing distance (0-3m) and speed (0-4r/min)
Operational Stability: Stable current consumption (~0.6A) for continuous operation
Smart Management: Digital monitoring and cloud connectivity
Environmental Resistance: Long-term reliability in salt spray environments
Easy Maintenance: Quick disassembly and cleaning capabilities
1. Design Research & User Analysis
Our team conducted extensive field research at aquaculture facilities, identifying core user needs:
Reliability in harsh marine environments
Simplified maintenance procedures
Intuitive operation with minimal training
Adaptability to various fish species and growth stages
2. Industrial Design Approach
We developed a functional aesthetic that emphasizes:
Fully enclosed housing for maximum protection
Streamlined forms that resist corrosion and accumulation
Intuitive user interfaces with essential controls only
Ergonomic handling features for daily operation
3. Mechanical Structure Engineering
The feeding mechanism incorporates several innovative features:
Modular Throwing Disc System: Interchangeable discs with specialized patterns and angles to accommodate different feed specifications and achieve precise distribution control.
Quick-Disconnect Mechanism: Patented coupling system enables tool-free disc removal and installation within seconds, significantly simplifying cleaning and maintenance.
Advanced Material Selection:
Housing: Salt spray-resistant modified ABS engineering plastic
Feed Contact Components: Food-grade PP (polypropylene) for safety and chemical resistance
Internal Mechanisms: 304 stainless steel bearings and POM (polyoxymethylene) moving parts for corrosion resistance and durability
4. Electronic & Electrical Systems Design
The electronic architecture ensures reliable performance:
Power Management: DC 24V wide-voltage input (18-36V) for safety and efficiency
Motor Control: Precision speed regulation (0-4r/min) with stable current consumption
Connectivity: Integrated 4G/5G modules for real-time data transmission
Cloud Integration: Seamless connectivity to smart feeding cloud platforms
Remote Management: Web, Pad, and APP control interfaces
5. Prototyping & Validation Testing
We conducted rigorous testing through multiple prototype iterations:
Feed distribution pattern analysis
Motor current stability under varying loads
Quick-disconnect mechanism durability testing
Salt spray corrosion resistance validation
Electronic system reliability in high-humidity conditions
6. Manufacturing & Production Implementation
Our manufacturing process ensured quality and consistency:
DFM Optimization: Comprehensive manufacturing analysis for complex components
Mold Engineering: Precision tooling for modified ABS and food-grade PP parts
Quality Assurance: Established inspection protocols for mass production
Supply Chain Coordination: Managed component sourcing and assembly processes
The smart aquatics feeding machine delivers significant benefits:
Operational Efficiency
15-20% reduction in feed costs through precise distribution
Reduced labor requirements with automated operation
Continuous monitoring and adjustment capabilities
Management Advantages
Real-time production data access via cloud platforms
Remote control and scheduling flexibility
Data-driven decision support for feeding strategies
Industry Leadership
Established new standards for intelligent feeding equipment
Enhanced client's competitive position in smart aquaculture
Demonstrated practical IoT implementation in aquaculture operations
This project showcases LKK Design's capability in delivering complete product development solutions for specialized aquaculture equipment, from initial concept to mass production.
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