Architecture for Symbiotic Livestock and Biofuel Production

Abstract

Methods and apparatus involve locating an algae production facility in close proximity to a livestock production facility whereby the outputs of one or both facilities promotes productivity levels in the facility. In an illustrative example, the algae production facility includes a bioreactor in fluid communication with the atmosphere inside, for example, a poultry facility, In some examples, the atmosphere inside the poultry facility may be around a substantially controlled temperature suitable for poultry. The atmosphere may further contain substantial Nitrogen-content suitable to promote algae growth. Various embodiments may symbiotically consume waste products from each facility to promote production of, for example, protein for food and algae, which may be used for animal feed, for example, and/or processed into fuel. In some examples, the algae production facility may be conveniently packaged into a module. In some examples, the module may be stored and shipped in a conventional shipping container.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A system for producing algae cells for use in processing biofuel which comprises:
 a livestock production facility for generating livestock output from their consumption of feed and water;   an algae production facility located proximate to the livestock production facility, the algae production facility comprising a reaction chamber for growing algae cells using livestock output; and,   a conduit providing fluid connection between the livestock production facility and the algae production facility, the conduit defining a passageway comprising an input port through which livestock output is received from the livestock production facility and an output port through which livestock output is discharged into the reaction chamber;   wherein at least a portion of the algae production facility is located within the livestock production facility; and   a second conduit connecting the livestock production facility and the algae production facility to convey algae output from the algae production facility into the livestock production facility.   
     
     
         2 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein livestock output comprises manure. 
     
     
         3 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein livestock output comprises ammonia. 
     
     
         4 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein livestock output comprises carbon dioxide. 
     
     
         5 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein livestock output comprises heat. 
     
     
         6 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein livestock output comprises kinetic airflow. 
     
     
         7 . The system of  claim 1 , further comprising means for supplying energy to the system. 
     
     
         8 . The system of  claim 1 , further comprising a housing for storing and shipping the algae production facility, wherein the housing comprises a shipping container.