CN110731258A

CN110731258A - Soilless culture system for plants

Info

Publication number: CN110731258A
Application number: CN201911144249.9A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 小田刚; 薦田一鹏; 河英雄; M·A·Y·阿勒扎比; 康迪夫; 杜深宇; 河成雄
Original assignee: Alesca Life Agricultural Technology Co Ltd
Current assignee: Alesca Life Agricultural Technology Co Ltd
Priority date: 2015-09-11
Filing date: 2015-09-11
Publication date: 2020-01-31
Also published as: CN106508649A; WO2017041757A1; ZA201802353B; CN106508649B

Abstract

The invention relates to an plant soilless culture system, comprising containers, the interior of which comprises a culture area, the culture area comprises at least layers of shelves, at least layers of shelves are provided with parts capable of containing culture substrates, plants are arranged in the culture substrates, wherein sides of the containers are provided with at least fans, a fluid circulating system, the fluid circulating system comprises water tanks, a plurality of nutrient tanks, pressure pumps and a fluid flowing pipeline, wherein the water tanks are connected with the nutrient tanks, the nutrient tanks convey nutrients to the water tanks so as to form nutrient solution in the water tanks, the pressure pumps pump pumps the nutrient solution in the water tanks to the fluid flowing pipeline, the fluid flowing pipeline conveys the nutrient solution to the parts containing the culture substrates and leads the nutrient solution flowing out of the parts containing the culture substrates to the water tanks, and an illumination system, wherein the distance between the illumination system and the plants is adjustable.

Description

Soilless culture system for plants

The application is a divisional application of an invention patent application with the application date of 2015, 9 and 11, the application number of 201510580373.5 and the name of a plant soilless culture system.

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to plant cultivation systems, and more particularly to soilless plant cultivation systems.

Background

Generally, plants are planted in soil, in an atmospheric environment. However, the growth of the plant in this case is greatly affected by the external environment, and particularly, the growth of the plant may be stopped or damaged in the case of the severe external environment.

In addition, the soil may be contaminated, affecting the growth of plants, and destroying the quality of plants.

The existing soilless culture systems are generally not partitioned, and plants are always in positions in the culture process, so the plants must be removed after the plants are completely mature, the space and time utilization rate is low.

Therefore, there is a need for soilless culture systems that provide the necessary stable environment for plant growth and that do not contaminate the plants.

Disclosure of Invention

An th aspect of the invention provides closed plant soilless culture system, comprising:

containers, the interior of which provides enclosed spaces, including cultivation areas,

wherein the cultivation areas comprise germination and seedling growth areas and cultivation and harvesting areas, and

wherein the growing area comprises at least tray systems, each provided with at least levels of shelves to place parts capable of containing growing media in which plants are placed.

preferred embodiments according to the aspect of the invention wherein the germination and seedling growth areas comprise a germination area and a seedling growth area.

preferred embodiments according to the aspect of the invention wherein the culture and harvest regions comprise a culture region and a harvest region, wherein the culture region is interposed between the harvest regions.

According to preferred embodiments of the aspect of the invention of , wherein the plant has the same growth cycle in the cultivation zone as in the harvesting zone.

preferred embodiments according to the aspect of the invention wherein the germination area is light-tight boxes with heaters inside.

preferred embodiments according to the aspect of the invention, wherein the germination and seedling growth area is provided with at least carrier systems, and wherein the part capable of containing a growth substrate in the germination and seedling growth area is a tray.

preferred embodiments according to the aspect of the invention, wherein the cultivation and harvesting area is provided with at least tray systems and wherein the part capable of containing a growth substrate in the cultivation and harvesting area is a cultivation tank.

preferred embodiments according to aspect of the invention, wherein the enclosed space further comprises front zones.

preferred embodiments according to the aspect of the invention, wherein the front region and the growing region are hermetically spaced from each other.

preferred embodiments according to the aspect of the invention, wherein the front region comprises a refrigeration device.

preferred embodiments according to aspect of the invention wherein the front zone includes an air purifier and a germicidal device.

preferred embodiments according to the aspect of the invention wherein workbench zones are provided in the front zone or the cultivation zone.

According to a preferred embodiment of the aspect of the invention, wherein the counter area is provided with a sink and a stretchable faucet.

preferred embodiments according to the aspect of the invention, wherein the closed plant soilless culture system further includes air circulation systems disposed in the culture zone.

preferred embodiments according to of the present invention wherein the air circulation system includes HVAC systems, air supply fans, and circulating ductwork systems, the HVAC communicating with the air supply fans, the circulating ductwork systems communicating with the HVAC,

wherein the circulating pipe system comprises of the following three types:

a) a plurality of th ports disposed in opposite sidewalls of the container,

b) a plurality of th ports disposed on the bottom upper surface of the container,

c) a plurality of th ports disposed at the top of the container and adjacent to two opposite side walls of the container, respectively, and a plurality of fans disposed on the two opposite side walls, and

wherein the recycling pipe system further comprises at least second ports, the at least second ports being located at the top center of the vessel.

preferred embodiments according to of the invention wherein, when the recycling ducting system comprises a), the recycling ducting system comprises a plurality of wall tubes disposed on the opposing side walls, and the plurality of -th ports are a plurality of apertures disposed in the plurality of wall tubes and in fluid communication with the growing area.

preferred embodiments according to aspect of the invention, wherein the plurality of wall tubes comprises at least vertically extending portions and at least horizontally extending portions.

preferred embodiments according to aspect of the invention wherein, when the recirculation conduit system comprises b), the recirculation conduit system comprises at least sidewall extensions disposed on the opposing sidewalls, and the at least sidewall extensions are in fluid communication with the plurality of ports on the bottom upper surface of the vessel.

preferred embodiments according to of the present invention wherein, when the recirculation ducting system comprises c), the plurality of fans are each spaced apart and angled from a respective of the opposing side walls.

preferred embodiments of the aspect of the invention wherein the plurality of fans draw air from the growing area to respective of the opposing side walls, causing air to flow up respective of the opposing side walls into the plurality of ports.

preferred embodiments according to the aspect of the present invention, wherein said plurality of th ports are return air ports through which air exits the growing area via said plurality of th ports, and said at least second ports are air outlet ports through which air enters the growing area via said at least second ports.

preferred embodiments according to the aspect of the present invention, wherein the plurality of th ports are air outlets through which air enters the cultivation area via the plurality of th ports, and the at least second ports are return air outlets through which air exits the cultivation area via the at least second ports.

preferred embodiments according to the aspect of the invention wherein the closed plant soilless culture system further includes fluid circulation systems disposed in the culture zone for providing nutrient solution to the plants.

preferred embodiments of the invention according to the aspect of the invention wherein the fluid circulation system comprises a water intake system, a germination and seedling growth zone nutrient solution circulation system, and a culture and harvest zone nutrient solution circulation system.

preferred embodiments according to aspect of the present invention wherein the water intake system comprises water inlets connected to an external water source, flow control regulators, water meters, booster pumps and at least water purification systems connected in series.

preferred embodiments of the invention according to the aspect of the invention wherein the germination and seedling growth area nutrient solution circulation system provides nutrient solution to the germination and seedling growth area comprising germination and seedling growth area water tanks, a plurality of germination and seedling growth area nutrient tanks, germination and seedling growth area pressure pumps, at least fluid germination and seedling growth area body transfer conduits, at least set of germination and seedling growth area fluid intake conduits, and at least germination and seedling growth area fluid exhaust conduits,

wherein the water inlet system delivers water to the germination and seedling growth area water tank, the germination and seedling growth area water tank is connected to the plurality of germination and seedling growth area nutrient tanks, and the plurality of germination and seedling growth area nutrient tanks deliver nutrients to the germination and seedling growth area water tank to form a nutrient solution in the germination and seedling growth area water tank;

wherein the germination and seedling growth zone pressure pump pumps nutrient solution from the germination and seedling growth zone water tank to the at least germination and seedling growth zone fluid delivery conduits, the at least germination and seedling growth zone fluid delivery conduits being in communication with the at least groups of germination and seedling growth zone fluid intake conduits for delivering nutrient solution to the at least groups of germination and seedling growth zone fluid intake conduits, and

wherein the at least groups of germination and seedling growth area fluid introduction pipes introduce nutrient solution into the medium holding means, and the at least germination and seedling growth area fluid discharge pipes discharge nutrient solution flowing out of the medium holding means to the germination and seedling growth area water tank.

preferred embodiments of the invention according to aspect wherein the germination and seedling growth area nutrient solution circulation system further comprises germination and seedling growth area fluid output conduits, the at least germination and seedling growth area fluid outlet conduits being in communication with the germination and seedling growth area fluid output conduits, the germination and seedling growth area fluid output conduits being connected to the germination and seedling growth area water tank for outputting nutrient solution extracted from the at least germination and seedling growth area fluid outlet conduits to the germination and seedling growth area water tank.

preferred embodiments of the invention according to the aspect of the invention wherein the germination and seedling growth area nutrient tanks include tanks containing a substance capable of lowering the pH of the nutrient solution.

preferred embodiments of the invention according to the aspect of the invention wherein, in the germination and seedling growth area nutrient solution circulation system, the nutrient solution is straight circulating, periodically circulating or irregularly circulating.

According to a preferred embodiment of of the aspect of the invention, wherein the culture and harvest zone nutrient solution circulation system provides nutrient solution to the culture and harvest zone, comprising culture and harvest zone water tanks, a plurality of culture and harvest zone nutrient tanks, culture and harvest zone pressure pumps, culture and harvest zone fluid transfer conduits, at least rows of culture and harvest zone fluid introduction conduits and at least culture and harvest zone fluid outflow tanks,

wherein said water intake system delivers water to said cultivation and harvest zone water tank, said cultivation and harvest zone water tank is connected to said plurality of cultivation and harvest zone nutrient tanks, said plurality of cultivation and harvest zone nutrient tanks deliver nutrients to said cultivation and harvest zone water tank to form a nutrient solution in said cultivation and harvest zone water tank;

wherein the cultivation and harvest zone pressure pump pumps nutrient solution in the cultivation and harvest zone water tank to the cultivation and harvest zone fluid transfer tubing, the cultivation and harvest zone fluid transfer tubing communicating with at least rows of cultivation and harvest zone fluid introduction tubing to transfer nutrient solution to the at least rows of cultivation and harvest zone fluid introduction tubing;

wherein the at least rows of cultivation and harvest area fluid introduction tubes introduce nutrient solution into the medium-containing parts, and

wherein the at least cultivation and harvest area fluid withdrawal conduits are below the end of the medium holding section to withdraw nutrient solution flowing from the medium holding section to the cultivation and harvest area water tank.

preferred embodiments of the invention according to the aspect of the invention wherein the cultivation and harvest zone nutrient tanks include tanks containing a substance capable of lowering the pH of the nutrient solution.

preferred embodiments of the invention according to the aspect of the invention wherein, in the cultivation and harvest site nutrient solution circulation system, the nutrient solution is straight circulating, periodic circulating or aperiodic circulating.

preferred embodiments according to aspect of the invention further comprise a lighting system.

preferred embodiments according to of the present invention wherein the lighting system is positioned above the components of the growth substrate.

preferred embodiments according to the aspect of the invention, wherein the distance between the lighting system and the plant is adjustable.

preferred embodiments according to aspect of the invention wherein at least of the germination and seedling growth zone pressure pumps and the cultivation and harvest zone pressure pumps are switched on before the lighting system is switched on for 30 minutes and switched off after the lighting system is switched off for 30 minutes.

preferred embodiments according to aspect of the invention wherein the container has tops, bottoms, and four side walls, wherein side walls provide .

preferred embodiments according to the aspect of the invention, wherein the bottom has a V-shaped cross-section in the upper surface.

According to a preferred embodiment of the aspect of the invention, wherein the top body, the bottom body and the four side walls bodies are all made of steel.

According to a preferred embodiment of the aspect of the invention, wherein the lower surface of the main body of the bottom is attached with a layer of isolating material, the upper surface of the main body of the bottom is provided with a layer of concrete, and the upper surface of the layer of concrete is covered with a floor.

preferred embodiments according to aspect of the present invention wherein the floor is made of polyvinyl chloride PVC.

According to a preferred embodiment of the aspect of the invention, wherein a layer of insulating material is attached to the lower surface of the main body of the top, and an insulating board is attached to the lower surface of the layer of insulating material.

According to a preferred embodiment of the aspect of the invention, wherein the side of the main body of the four side walls facing the interior of the container has a layer of barrier material attached thereto, and the side of the layer of barrier material facing the interior of the container has a barrier panel attached thereto.

According to a preferred embodiment of the aspect of the invention, the structure of the isolation board is a sandwich structure, which is a steel plate, a foam layer and a steel plate in this order.

According to preferred embodiments of the aspect of the invention, wherein the closed plant soilless culture system includes a monitoring system and a control system.

preferred embodiments according to aspect of the invention wherein the monitoring system includes, but is not limited to, an air temperature sensor, humidity sensorSensor, CO₂Level sensor, liquid temperature sensor, pH value sensor, dissolved oxygen sensor.

preferred embodiments according to aspect of the invention, wherein the control system includes or more controllers.

According to of the preferred embodiments of the aspect of the invention, the culture substrate is sponge, rockwool, ceramsite, coconut coir, perlite or vermiculite.

preferred embodiments according to aspect of the invention, wherein the container is a shipping container.

According to preferred embodiments of the aspect of the invention, wherein the plant is a green leaf vegetable.

A second aspect of the present invention provides closed plant soilless culture systems, including containers, the interior of which provides closed spaces including a culture region, and air circulation systems, which are provided in the closed spaces,

wherein the air circulation system includes HVAC systems, air supply fans, and ductwork for circulation, the HVAC communicating with the air supply fans, the ductwork for circulation communicating with the HVAC,

wherein the circulating pipe system comprises of the following three types:

a) a plurality of th ports disposed in opposite sidewalls of the container,

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein when the recycling ducting system comprises a), the recycling ducting system comprises a plurality of wall tubes provided on the opposite side walls, and the plurality of -th ports are a plurality of apertures provided in the plurality of wall tubes and in fluid communication with the growing area.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the plurality of wall tubes comprises at least vertically extending portions and at least horizontally extending portions.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein when the recycling ducting system comprises b), the recycling ducting system comprises at least side wall extensions provided on said opposite side walls, and said at least side wall extensions are in fluid communication with said plurality of ports on the bottom upper surface of the container.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein when the circulating duct system comprises c), the plurality of fans are each spaced apart and angled from a respective of the two opposing side walls.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the plurality of fans draw air from the cultivation area to the respective of the two opposing side walls, causing air to flow up the respective of the two opposing side walls into the plurality of ports.

according to a second aspect of the present invention are preferred embodiments wherein said plurality of th ports are return air ports through which air exits the growth area and said at least second ports are air outlet ports through which air enters the growth area through said at least second ports.

according to a second aspect of the present invention are preferred embodiments wherein said plurality of th ports are air outlets and air enters the growth area via said plurality of th ports and said at least second ports are air return ports and air exits the growth area via said at least second ports.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the cultivation area comprises germination and seedling growth areas and cultivation and harvesting areas.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the germination and seedling growth areas comprise a germination area and a seedling growth area.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the culturing and harvesting regions comprise a culturing region and a harvesting region, wherein the culturing region is interposed between the harvesting regions.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the plant has a growth cycle in the cultivation area that is the same as the growth cycle in the harvesting area.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the germination area is light-tight boxes in which heaters are arranged.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the germination and seedling growth area is provided with at least tray systems and wherein the part capable of containing a growth substrate in the germination and seedling growth area is a tray.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the cultivation and harvesting section is provided with at least tray systems and wherein the part capable of containing a growth substrate in the cultivation and harvesting section is a cultivation tank.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the enclosed space further comprises front zones.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the front zone and the growing zone are hermetically spaced from each other.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the front region includes a refrigeration device.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the front area comprises an air purifier and a sterilizing device.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein counter zones are provided in the front zone or the cultivation zone.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the counter area is provided with a sink and a stretchable faucet.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the closed plant soilless culture system further comprises fluid circulation systems provided in the culture zone for providing nutrient solution to the plants.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the fluid circulation system comprises a water intake system, a germination and seedling growth area nutrient circulation system, and a culture and harvest area nutrient circulation system.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the water intake system comprises water inlet pipes, flow control regulators, water meters, booster pumps and at least water purification systems connected in series, the water inlet pipes being connected to an external water source.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the germination and seedling growth zone nutrient solution circulation system provides nutrient solution to the germination and seedling growth zone, comprising germination and seedling growth zone water tanks, a plurality of germination and seedling growth zone nutrient tanks, germination and seedling growth zone pressure pumps, at least germination and seedling growth zone fluid delivery conduits, at least groups of germination and seedling growth zone fluid introduction conduits, and at least germination and seedling growth zone fluid withdrawal conduits,

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the germination and seedling growth area nutrient solution circulation system further comprises germination and seedling growth area fluid output conduits, the at least germination and seedling growth area fluid outlet conduits being in communication with the germination and seedling growth area fluid output conduits, the germination and seedling growth area fluid output conduits being connected to the germination and seedling growth area water tank for outputting nutrient solution led out of the at least germination and seedling growth area fluid outlet conduits to the germination and seedling growth area water tank.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the germination and seedling growth zone nutrient tanks include tanks containing a substance capable of lowering the pH of the nutrient solution.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein in the germination and seedling growth zone nutrient solution circulation system the nutrient solution is straight, periodic or irregular.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention wherein the culture and harvest zone nutrient solution circulation system provides nutrient solution to the culture and harvest zone comprising culture and harvest zone water tanks, a plurality of culture and harvest zone nutrient tanks, culture and harvest zone pressure pumps, culture and harvest zone fluid transfer lines, at least rows of culture and harvest zone fluid introduction lines and at least culture and harvest zone fluid exit tanks,

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the cultivation and harvest zone nutrient tanks include tanks containing a substance capable of lowering the pH of the nutrient solution.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein in the cultivation and harvest zone nutrient solution circulation system the nutrient solution is straight circulating, periodic circulating or aperiodic circulating.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein an illumination system is further included.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the lighting system is arranged above the parts of the culture substrate.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the distance between the lighting system and the plant is adjustable.

preferred embodiments according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein at least of the germination and seedling growth zone pressure pumps and the cultivation and harvest zone pressure pumps are switched on before the lighting system is switched on for 30 minutes and switched off after the lighting system is switched off for 30 minutes.

A third aspect of the invention provides a plant soilless culture system, comprising:

containers, the interior of which provides spaces,

wherein sides of the container are provided with at least fans and sides opposite the sides have at least holes.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the at least fans draw outside air through the at least holes towards the space.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the side where the at least fans are located also has at least holes.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the opposing sides are also provided with at least fans.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the blowing direction of the fan is variable.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the space comprises a functional component area and a growing area, the functional component area and the growing area being spaced apart from each other, wherein the growing area comprises at least layers of shelves, said at least layers of shelves having placed therein components capable of receiving a growing medium in which the plants are placed.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the member capable of containing a growth substrate is a tray.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the plant soilless culture system further includes a fluid circulation system including water tanks, a plurality of nutrient tanks, pressure pumps, and a fluid flow pipe,

wherein the water tank is connected to the plurality of nutrient tanks, and the plurality of nutrient tanks deliver nutrients to the water tank to form a nutrient solution in the water tank;

wherein the pressure pump pumps the nutrient solution in the water tank to the fluid flow conduit, the fluid flow conduit delivers the nutrient solution to the medium holding part, and leads out the nutrient solution flowing out of the medium holding part to the water tank.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the fluid circulation system is cyclic periodically, uninterrupted for 24 hours or sporadically.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention wherein the nutrient tanks include tanks containing a substance capable of lowering the pH of the nutrient solution.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the shelf is provided with a fluid inlet port and a fluid outlet port.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the fluid flow conduit is connected to the fluid inlet port for delivering nutrient solution to the means for containing growth substrate, and

wherein the fluid flow pipe is also connected with the fluid discharge port, and nutrient solution flows out of the culture medium containing part through the fluid discharge port and is led out to the water tank through the fluid flow pipe.

According to preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, wherein the plant soilless culture system further includes a lighting system.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the lighting system is above the plants.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the distance between the lighting system and the plant is adjustable.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the pressure pump is turned on before the lighting system is turned on for 30 minutes and turned off after the lighting system is turned off for 30 minutes.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the container is cabinets.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the upper part of the cabinet is the growing area and the lower part of the cabinet is the feature area.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the cabinet comprises .

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the is made of glass.

According to preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the invention, wherein the portion of the glass corresponding to the functional component area is sprayed with metal powder.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the bottom of the cabinet is provided with a plurality of wheels.

preferred embodiments according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein a slide is provided on the shelf to enable the shelf to be pulled out of the container.

According to preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, wherein the culture substrate is sponge, rockwool, ceramsite, coconut coir, perlite or vermiculite.

According to preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, wherein the container is provided with a wireless access module.

The enclosed plant cultivation system according to the present invention has been proved to improve the yield by several times by providing the partitioned areas, which also optimizes the nutrient solution circulation system and the air circulation system to provide the optimum growing environment for the plants in a cheaper and more efficient manner, the illumination system of which is adjustable to improve the illumination absorption of the plants, and furthermore, kinds of small-sized plant cultivation systems which can be conveniently used in small-sized spaces such as restaurants, homes, etc. are provided.

Drawings

The invention will be explained in more detail below with the aid of exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the drawings, in which:

fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view of the outside of a container of a closed plant cultivation system according to embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the container of fig. 1 taken along line a-a.

FIG. 3 further shows a perspective view of the floorboard of FIG. 2.

Fig. 4 is a schematic perspective view of the interior space of the container of fig. 1.

Fig. 5 is a top view of the interior space of fig. 4.

Fig. 6 shows a block diagram of an embodiment water intake system according to the invention.

Fig. 7a shows a perspective view of a nutrient solution circulation system in a germination and seedling growth area according to embodiments of the invention, fig. 7b shows a front view of a nutrient solution circulation system in a germination and seedling growth area according to embodiments of the invention, fig. 7c1 shows a side view of a nutrient solution circulation system in a germination and seedling growth area according to embodiments of the invention, fig. 7c2 shows another side views of a nutrient solution circulation system in a germination and seedling growth area according to embodiments of the invention, and fig. 7d shows a top view of a nutrient solution circulation system in a germination and seedling growth area according to embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 8a shows a perspective view of a nutrient solution circulation system of a cultivation and harvesting area according to embodiments of the invention, fig. 8b shows an enlarged schematic view of region K in fig. 8a, fig. 8c shows an enlarged schematic view of region J in fig. 8a, and fig. 8d shows a side view of portion of fig. 8 a.

Fig. 9 shows a schematic view of an air circulation system according to embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 10 shows a schematic view of an air circulation system according to another embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 11 shows a schematic view of an air circulation system according to yet another embodiment of the invention .

Fig. 12 shows a front view of another embodiments of a plant growing system according to the invention.

Fig. 13 shows a perspective view of the plant growing system of fig. 12.

Fig. 14a shows a top view of the shelf of fig. 13.

Fig. 14b shows a bottom view of the shelf of fig. 13.

Fig. 15 shows a detailed schematic view of the container bottom of the plant growing system of fig. 12.

It is to be understood that the drawings are designed solely for the purposes of illustration and not as a definition of the limits of the invention.

Detailed Description

Various embodiments of the present invention are further described in in conjunction with the following figures in which like or similar reference numerals indicate like or similar elements or elements having like or similar functionality throughout the several figures it is to be understood that the embodiments described below in conjunction with the figures are exemplary only and are intended to be illustrative of the invention and not limiting.

Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view of the exterior of a container 10 of a closed plant growing system according to embodiments of the present invention, as shown in fig. 1, the container 10 is generally rectangular parallelepiped in shape, but it will be appreciated that other suitable shapes are possible, such as a cube, hi this embodiment, the container 10 is a shipping container, preferably the entire container has no external protruding parts, and the container generally conforms to shipping standards, which ensures maximum protection during shipping, handling and maintenance.

As shown in FIG. 1, the container 10 includes tops 101, bottoms 102, and four side walls 103, of which side walls are provided with 104.

Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the container 10 of fig. 1 taken along line a-a. This fig. 2 shows the specific structure of the top 101, bottom 102, and left and right side walls 103 of the container 10. As shown in fig. 2, the top 101, bottom 102 and body 3 of the side walls 103 are made of steel to provide structural strength. As explained below, a number of other layers are also provided in the top 101, bottom 102, and sidewalls 103 in order to provide additional functionality.

The lower surface of the main steel plate of the bottom 102 may be sprayed with a 30mm thick layer of insulation material 1, which functions to block heat transfer, and the insulation material may be Polyurethane (PU). it should be understood that the thickness of the insulation material layer is not limited thereto, and the insulation material is not limited to polyurethane, and other insulation materials may be provided by other suitable methods.A 25mm thick layer of concrete 4 may be poured onto the upper surface of the main steel plate of the bottom 102. the concrete may improve durability, extend service life, and ensure firmness during transportation and daily operations.it should be understood that the thickness of the concrete layer is not limited thereto, and other materials that may improve durability may be provided by other methods.A 1.8mm thick layer of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) flooring 5 may be coated onto the upper surface of the concrete layer, which may extend a distance up to two side walls . the PVC material may be water resistant and may be non-white, such as blue, so as to prevent reflection of light emitted from a light source from being reflected into the eyes of workers.

Similarly, the lower surface of the top 101 (i.e., the surface facing the interior of the container 10) and the inner surfaces of the two side walls 103 (i.e., the surfaces facing the interior of the container 10) are sprayed with a 30mm thick layer of barrier material. The barrier material may be Polyurethane (PU). It should be understood that the thickness of the layer of barrier material is not limited thereto and that the barrier material is not limited to polyurethane, and other barrier materials may be provided using other suitable methods.

These layers of insulating material enable the thermal capacity of the system to be maintained at preset set points to ensure that environmental conditions do not fluctuate greatly throughout the day.

As shown in FIG. 2, the top 101 and side walls 103 are also provided with spacers 2, respectively, which are sandwich structures, i.e., 0.5mm galvanized steel +49mm polyurethane foam +0.5mm galvanized steel, it is to be understood that the thickness and form of the spacers are not limited thereto and that other suitable materials and forms are possible.

Although fig. 2 shows only the structure of two of the sidewalls, it is understood that the structure of the other two sidewalls is the same as the sidewall structure shown in fig. 2.

In addition, the shape of the PVC floor is also shown in fig. 2. As shown in fig. 2, the cross-section of the PVC floor is V-shaped, i.e., high at both sides and low in the middle. The inclined floor is advantageous in that, when a water leakage situation occurs inside the container 10, water is accumulated in the inclined area and then discharged to the outside of the container 10 through the drainage system, thereby preventing water from accumulating inside the container 10. The angle of the two inclined parts of the V-shaped floor with the horizontal plane is preferably 1-2.

Fig. 3 further shows a perspective view of the floor, as shown in fig. 3, in the cultivation area 202 (described below), the floor is inclined, it being understood that in the front area 201 (described below), the floor may also be inclined.

Fig. 4 is a schematic perspective view of the interior space 20 of the container 10 of fig. 1. As shown in fig. 4, the internal space 20 is divided into two parts in the length direction: a front region 201 and a growing region 202, wherein the growing region 202 comprises a bench region 2021, a germination and seedling growth region 2022, and a cultivation and harvesting region 2023, which are labeled in detail in fig. 5, fig. 5 being a top view of the interior space 20 of fig. 4. In fig. 5, the upper right part of the cultivation area is a table area 2021, the lower right part is a germination and seedling growth area 2022, and the left half is a cultivation and harvesting area 2023.

The space of the front region 201 is smaller relative to the cultivation region 202, and the front region 201 and the cultivation region 202 are relatively independent. The front region 201 provides refrigeration and pest control functions. A refrigeration device, such as a refrigerator, may be provided in front region 201 for preserving the harvested plants. The front region 201 also includes an air purifier, such as a UV-C air purifier, and the front region 201 also includes a sterilization device. In this front zone 201, harmful substances such as pests, pollutants, dust, bacteria, viruses, microorganisms and other airborne particles can be removed, minimizing the risk of contamination of the cultivated area 202 with these harmful substances, ensuring as much as possible the yield of the plants.

Cultivation area 202 will be described in detail below.

As shown in fig. 4 and 5, growing area 202 is hermetically spaced from front area 201, e.g., growing area 202 is spaced from front area 201 by , which may seal the growing area, the growing area 202 being configured to provide space for the growth of plants.

The counter area 2021 of the growing area 202 provides a platform for the preparation of plants such as vegetables prior to growth and related treatment after harvesting of the plants such as vegetables as shown in fig. 4, the counter area 2021 is provided with basins WT where workers can clean utensils, prepare nutrient solutions, select seeds, clean and/or prepare plants, complete basic maintenance, etc. stretchable faucets f are provided beside the basins the counter area 2021 may be provided with water purifiers, booster pumps, etc. (to be shown in the subsequent figures), wherein the functions of the water purifiers and booster pumps, etc. will be explained below.

Seeding operations may be performed in the bench area 2021. The sowing operation is performed by placing the seeds in a cultivation substrate and then watering the seeds with the above-mentioned stretchable water tap. The culture medium may be sponge, rock wool, ceramsite (LECA), coconut coir (coconut coir), perlite (perlite), vermiculite (vermiculite), etc. Sowing in the working platform area is convenient for operating the culture medium.

The relative positions of the bench area 2021 and the germination and seedling growth area 2022, and the cultivation and harvesting area 2023 preferably enable workers to move in a single direction from the bench area 2021 to the germination and seedling growth area 2022, and the cultivation and harvesting area 2023, thereby saving labor.

As shown in FIG. 4, the germination and seedling growth area 2022 is provided with bracket systems 2022 RS. which have a total of four shelves 2022S on which trays are placed and culture substrates are placed in these trays are not shown in this figure for clarity, the uppermost shelf is not provided with trays and is provided with a lighting system only at the lower part of the shelf, which will be described below.

The germination and seedling growth zone 2022 may comprise a germination zone 2022a and a seedling growth zone 2022b for germination and seedling growth, respectively, of plants such as vegetables as schematically shown in fig. 4, the germination zone 2022a is below the seedling growth zone 2022b, but it is understood that the relative positions of the germination zone 2022a and the seedling growth zone 2022b are not so limited, in the germination zone 2022a, the seeds do not require light and require higher temperature and humidity than the seedling growth zone and the cultivation and harvesting zone, the germination zone 2022a may be light-tight boxes in which heaters are provided, the seedling growth zone 2022a and the seedling growth zone 2022b are distinguished because the conditions required for the plants during these two growth processes are different.

After the seeds germinate in the germination area 2022a, the culture medium is transferred to a seedling growth area 2022b, and in the seedling growth area 2022b, plants such as vegetables grow into seedlings. The conductivity ec (electroconductivity) of the nutrient solution of the seedling growth zone 2022b may be 50% to 75% of the conductivity of the nutrient solution in the cultivation and harvest zone 2023.

The cultivation and harvesting section 2023 is provided with four rack systems 2023 RS. each rack system 2023RS has 5 tiers of racks 2023s it is understood that other suitable numbers of rack systems and racks are possible.a plurality of elongated culture tanks are spaced side by side on the upper portion of the lower 4 tiers of racks, with culture medium placed in these culture tanks for clarity culture tanks are shown only on the racks of one of the rack systems in fig. 4 the uppermost tier of racks is not provided with culture tanks, and only on the lower portion of the racks are provided with illumination systems, which will be described below.

Each culture tank may be referred to as culture and harvesting zones, all of which together make up a total culture and harvesting zone 2023. for culture tanks in a shelf of layers thereof, the culture and harvesting zones including culture zone 2023a and harvesting zone 2023b for growing seedlings into mature plants are shown schematically in fig. 4. it will be understood that for other culture tanks in other shelves, the culture and harvesting zones also include culture zone 2023a and harvesting zone 2023 b.

The seedlings grown in the seedling growing region 2022b are first transferred to the cultivation region 2023a, and after cultivation for hours in the cultivation region 2023a, the cultivation substrate is transferred to the harvesting region 2023b, and the plants such as vegetables can be harvested after further growth for hours in the harvesting region 2023 b.

The growth cycle of the plant may be the same in the culture zone 2023a and the harvest zone 2023b, as shown in fig. 4, with the culture zone 2023a interposed between the harvest zones 2023 b. The number of plants in the culture zone is the same as the number of plants in the harvest zone. The relative position of the culture area and the harvesting area enables workers to conveniently move the plants in the culture area to the harvesting area, and therefore manpower is saved.

The introduction of the culture zone (nurseries zone) may result in a 50% increase in yield compared to a system comprising only a seedling growth zone (seeding zone) and a harvesting zone (refining zone). Through the germination area (germinizone), the seedling growth area, the culture area and the harvesting area, each stage of plant growth can be continuously carried out, meanwhile, subsequent plants can be introduced without gaps, uninterrupted plant planting and harvesting are realized, and the efficiency is improved.

It should be understood that the above illustration of the zones is merely illustrative and not restrictive, for example, the counter zone may be provided not in the cultivation zone, but in the front zone.

Fig. 6-8 show schematic views of fluid circulation systems according to embodiments of the invention.

The fluid circulation system according to embodiments of the present invention comprises three subsystems, a water intake system, a germination and seedling growth area nutrient solution circulation system, and a cultivation and harvest area nutrient solution circulation system, the above three subsystems are shown below by means of fig. 6-8, respectively.

FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of a water intake system 60 according to embodiments of the present invention the water intake system 60 may be disposed under the water basin WT of the counter area 2021, as shown in FIG. 6, the water intake system includes a water intake pipe WI connected to an external water source, a flow control regulator V, water meters M, booster pumps P, at least water purification systems WP (two shown in the figure), the flow control regulator may be a manual water intake flow valve that may control the inflow of water, ensure control of manual over-limit (over-limit) volume and prevent any potential water transport problems, the water meters may be any water intake meters providing correct information about the use of water, the booster pumps may be 100W pressure sensing automatic booster pumps, ensure that the internal water delivery pipe is accurately pressurized to deliver water where needed, the water purification system may be a 25 micron PP mesh carbon filter and 5 micron PP mesh sediment filter, the water purification system may ensure that the quality of water used by the internal system is maintained at 2 acceptable safety levels, prevent damage from aquatic contaminants and chemicals, a water purification system may be disposed from a 25 micron PP mesh carbon filter and 5 micron mesh sediment filter, the water purification system may be disposed in a germination area via a side view of a water tank and a germination area, and a seedling water storage tank arrangement may be disposed according to a germination area, and a germination area, a germination area.

The germination and seedling growing area nutrient solution circulation system shown in fig. 7a comprises water tanks 701, a plurality of nutrient tanks 702, pressure pumps (not shown), a plurality of fluid delivery conduits 703, a plurality of sets of fluid inlet conduits 704, a plurality of fluid outlet conduits 705 and 0 fluid outlet conduits 706, in fig. 7a-7d, sets of fluid delivery conduits 703, two sets of fluid inlet conduits 704, two sets of fluid outlet conduits 705 are provided for each layer of the rack, the number of fluid inlet conduits 704 is related to the number of trays on the rack, as shown in fig. 7a, sets of fluid inlet conduits 704 are provided for each row of trays on each layer of the rack, each fluid delivery conduit 703 is divided into two branches at each layer, each set of fluid inlet conduits 704 is connected to set of fluid inlet conduits 704, each set of fluid inlet conduits may comprise at least tubules, fluid inlet conduits are provided above the trays of the respective layers of trays, fluid outlet conduits are in communication with the fluid outlet conduits 701, the fluid outlet conduits are provided for the fluid outlet conduits 701, the fluid outlet conduits 701 may be in communication with the germination and the nutrient solution outlet conduits 701, the nutrient solution delivery conduits 701 from the water tanks 701, the nutrient tank 701, the nutrient solution outlet conduits may be provided for a period of the nutrient solution delivery system, the nutrient solution outlet conduits 701, the nutrient solution outlet conduits may be provided for the plant growth medium tank 701, the plant growth area may be provided for a period after the plant growth area, the plant growth area may be returned to the plant growth area, the plant growth area may be returned to the plant growth area 701, the plant growth area may be returned to the plant growth area, the plant growth area may be returned to the plant growth area 701 area, the plant growth area may be provided with the plant growth area, the plant growth area may be returned to the plant growth area 701 area, the plant growth area may be returned to the plant growth area, the plant growth area 701 area, the plant growth area may be returned to the plant growth area may be returned.

In addition to the EC sensor, a pH sensor, a water temperature sensor, and a dissolved oxygen sensor may be provided in the tank 701. the pH sensor senses the pH of the nutrient solution in the tank 701, if the pH of the nutrient solution in the tank 701 is too high, for example, 7.5 to 8.0, the nutrient solution tank 702 may deliver an acidic substance that lowers the pH into the tank 701, so that the pH of the nutrient solution is lowered to, for example, 5.5 to 6.5. the pH sensor senses the temperature of the nutrient solution in the tank 701, a cooler may be provided beside the tank 701, and when the water temperature sensor senses that the temperature of the nutrient solution in the tank 701 is too high, the temperature sensor may sense the oxygen content in the tank 701, and when the dissolved oxygen sensor senses the oxygen content in the tank 701, the dissolved oxygen sensor may sense the oxygen content in the nutrient solution in the tank 701.

The nutrient tanks 702 shown in fig. 7a and 7b comprise a total of three tanks, two of which contain nutrients for plant growth and are open when it is desired to deliver nutrients to the water tank 701, the nutrients being placed in different tanks to prevent the different nutrients from reacting in the same tanks, and the other tanks contain the acidic substance described above for lowering the pH and are open when the pH sensor senses that the pH of the nutrient solution in the water tank 701 is too high.

It should be understood that the number and form of the various components described above with respect to fig. 7a-7d are not limited to those described in this specification and the drawings, but may vary depending on the actual needs, further, none of the above components are necessary, for example, no fluid output conduits may be provided, for example, only fluid delivery conduits may be available from an rack system, which then branch off at each level of shelves, and for example, the fluid delivery conduits and sets of fluid introduction conduits may be bodies.

Fig. 8a shows a perspective view of a nutrient solution circulation system of a cultivation and harvesting area according to embodiments of the invention, fig. 8b shows an enlarged schematic view of region K in fig. 8a, fig. 8c shows an enlarged schematic view of region J in fig. 8a, fig. 8d shows a side view of part of fig. 8a, in fig. 8a two side-by-side carrier systems are shown, of which carrier systems do not show shelves for the sake of clarity.

As shown in FIG. 8a, the nutrient circulation system of the cultivation and harvesting area comprises water tanks 801, a plurality of nutrient tanks 802, pressure pumps (not shown), two fluid transfer pipes 803, a plurality of rows of fluid introduction pipes 804 and a plurality of fluid outflow tanks 805. As shown in FIG. 8a, the two tray systems share water tanks, nutrient tanks and pressure pumps, which is a design that is preferably part saving.

Two fluid carrying conduits 803 are used for racking systems, respectively, each fluid carrying conduit for a level shelf, wherein fluid carrying conduits in the fluid carrying conduits correspond to the number of cultivation tanks placed on each level shelf, fluid carrying conduits are provided directly below the 583 end of the cultivation tanks placed on each level shelf, like the germination and seedling growth zone nutrient solution circulation system, only water from the water inlet system 60 is present in the tank 801 at the start of operation of the cultivation and harvest zone nutrient solution circulation system, at which point the EC sensor provided in the tank 801 senses that the EC in the tank 801 is less than the lower limit value, the nutrient tank 802 above the tank 801 starts to carry nutrients to the tank 801, at which point water mixed with nutrients, i.e. nutrient solution, is pushed up from the tank 801 by the pressure pump to the fluid carrying conduits 803, then flows through the fluid carrying conduits 804 to the tank end of the cultivation tanks on each shelf, fluid carrying conduits are provided directly below the nutrient solution carrying conduits end of each cultivation tank, i.e. nutrient solution is able to flow back to the fluid carrying conduits 805, thus facilitating the flow of the nutrient solution from the tank 805 to the tank 805, and the nutrient solution carrying conduits 805, which may be pumped up to the nutrient solution carrying conduits 805, thus facilitating the nutrient solution flow from the culture fluid carrying conduits 805 to the culture fluid carrying conduits 805 directly from the culture tank 805, the culture fluid carrying conduits 805, which may be drawn from the culture fluid carrying conduits 805, and the culture fluid carrying conduits directly below the culture fluid carrying conduits of the culture tank 801, and the culture medium inlet system directly below the nutrient solution flowing back to the nutrient solution circulation system directly below the nutrient solution circulation system 805, thus facilitating the nutrient solution flowing from the culture tank 801, the nutrient solution feeding fluid flow of the nutrient solution feeding tank 801, the culture tank 805, the nutrient solution feeding fluid from the culture tank 805, the nutrient solution feeding fluid feeding conduits 805, the nutrient solution feeding conduits of the nutrient solution feeding.

In addition to the EC sensor, a pH sensor, a water temperature sensor, and a dissolved oxygen sensor may be provided in the tank 801. the pH sensor senses the pH of the nutrient solution in the tank 801. if the pH of the nutrient solution in the tank 801 is too high, for example, 7.5 to 8.0, the nutrient solution tank 802 may supply an acidic substance that lowers the pH into the tank 801, so that the pH of the nutrient solution is lowered to, for example, 5.5 to 6.5. the pH sensor senses the temperature of the nutrient solution in the tank 801. if the pH of the nutrient solution in the tank 801 is too high, for example, 7.5 to 8.0, the water temperature sensor may be provided near the tank 801, and if the water temperature sensor senses the temperature of the nutrient solution in the tank 801 is too high, the temperature sensor may sense the oxygen content of the nutrient solution in the tank 801, and if the dissolved oxygen sensor senses the oxygen content of the nutrient solution in the tank 801, the dissolved oxygen sensor may be provided near 801.

Similarly, the nutrient tanks 802 shown in FIGS. 8a and 8b include a total of three tanks, two of which contain nutrients for plant growth and are open to place nutrients in different tanks to prevent different nutrients from reacting in the same tanks when it is desired to deliver nutrients to the tank 801, and another tanks contain acidic substances as described above to reduce the pH and are open when the pH sensor senses that the pH of the nutrient solution in the tank 801 is too high.

Furthermore, the components described above are not all required, e.g., the fluid delivery conduits and sets of fluid introduction conduits may be bodies.

FIG. 9 shows a schematic view of an air circulation system 90 according to embodiments of the invention As shown in FIG. 9, within the growing area, there is provided an air supply fan (not shown), which may be in the sidewall, that supplies outside air to the interior of the container 10.

The air circulation system 90 further includes heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems (HVAC), a third ventilation duct 901a, a second ventilation duct 901b, a third ventilation duct 901c, a fourth ventilation duct 901d, a third controller 902a, a second controller 902b, and a third controller 902c, which are all embedded into the side wall and the top of the container, thereby achieving an aesthetic effect, a third ventilation duct 901a, a second ventilation duct 901b, and a third ventilation duct 901c are all in fluid communication with the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, a fourth ventilation duct 901a, a second ventilation duct 901b, and a third ventilation duct 901c are all in fluid communication with the fourth ventilation duct 901d, a controller 902a is located at the connection of the fourth ventilation duct 901a and the fourth ventilation duct 901d, a second controller 902b is located at the connection of the second ventilation duct 901b and the fourth ventilation duct 901d, and a third controller 902c is located at the connection of the third ventilation duct 901c and the fourth ventilation duct 901 d.

The lower portion of the vent duct 901a may have an open grill (diffuser) to communicate with the interior of the container 10.

In both side walls of the vessel 10 are provided a plurality of wall tubes 903 (903 b and 903c as shown) which may comprise at least vertical extensions and at least horizontal extensions, the wall tubes having a plurality of holes H on the side facing the interior of the vessel 10, as clearly visible in wall tube 903b (there are a plurality of holes on the surfaces of both side walls facing the interior of the vessel which may correspond to the holes of the wall tubes).

The air circulation system 90 can provide at least a plurality of air circulation modes, which will be described separately below:

(1) the second controller 902b operates, the HVAC passes through the second vent duct 901b, the air provided by the air supply fan is sent through the fourth vent duct 901d to the wall tube 903b in the side wall adjacent to the second vent duct 901b, the air flows through the holes in the wall tube 903b to the interior of the container 10, when the air flows to the other side wall, enters the wall tube 903c in the side wall through the holes in the wall tube 903c, the third controller 902c also operates, the air flows from the wall tube 903c through the fourth vent duct 901d to the third vent duct 901c, and then returns to the HVAC, forming an air circulation.

(2) In contrast to mode (1), the third controller 902c is operated, the HVAC passes through the third air duct 901c, the air supplied by the air supply fan is sent through the fourth air duct 901d to the wall tube 903c in the side wall adjacent to the third air duct 901c, the air flows through the holes in the wall tube 903c to the interior of the container 10, when the air flows to the other side wall, enters the wall tube 903b in the side wall through the holes in the wall tube 903b, the second controller 902a is also operated, and the air flows from the wall tube 903b through the fourth air duct 901d to the second air duct 901b, and then returns to the HVAC, forming an air circulation.

(3) The second controller 902b is operated, the HVAC sends the air supplied from the air supply fan to the wall tube 903b of the side wall adjacent to the second ventilation duct 901b through the second ventilation duct 901b via the fourth ventilation duct 901d, and the air flows to the inside of the container 10 through the holes of the wall tube 903b, at the same time, the third controller 903c is operated, the HVAC sends the air supplied from the air supply fan to the wall tube 903c of the side wall adjacent to the third ventilation duct 901c through the third ventilation duct 901c via the fourth ventilation duct 901d, and the air flows to the inside of the container 10 through the holes of the wall tube 903c, and the controller 902a is operated, and the air blown into the inside of the container 10 from the wall tube 903b and the wall tube 903c is pulled into the first ventilation duct a, and then returned to the HVAC, forming an air circulation.

(4) In contrast to mode (3), the th controller 902a is operated, the HVAC pushes air supplied by the air supply fan into the interior of the container 10 through the th ventilation duct 901a, the air enters the wall duct 903 through the holes in the wall duct 903b and the wall duct 903c, then the second controller 902a and the third controller 903c are operated, and the air enters the second ventilation duct 901b and the third ventilation duct 901c from the wall duct 903b and the wall duct 903c through the fourth ventilation duct 901d, respectively, and then returns to the HVAC, forming an air circulation.

The various air circulation modes make it possible to select the respective mode according to the actual needs.

FIG. 10 shows a schematic view of an air circulation system 100 according to another embodiment of the invention similar to air circulation system 90, air circulation system 100 is also provided with an air supply fan (not shown) which may be at side walls 103 which supply outside air to the interior of container 10.

The air circulation system 100 also includes heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems (HVAC), a th ventilation duct 1001a, a second ventilation duct 1001b, a third ventilation duct 1001c, and a plurality of wall fans F, the HVAC being in fluid communication with the th ventilation duct 1001a, the second ventilation duct 1001b, the third ventilation duct 1001c, the wall fans being suspended from the side walls, the number of which may be related to the number of trays or culture tanks, the lower portion of the th ventilation duct 1001a, the lower portion of the second ventilation duct 1001b, the lower portion of the third ventilation duct 1001c may each have an open grille that communicates with the interior of the container 10.

In the air circulation system, the HVAC sends air into the container 10 through the first ventilating duct 1001a, the wall fans F on both sides pull the air toward the side walls, the air flowing toward both side walls flows upward, and flows back to the HVAC through the second and

third ventilating ducts

1001b and 1001c, respectively, to form air circulation.

The plurality of wall fans may draw air from the growing area into the second and

third vent conduits

1001b and 1001c up respective of the opposing sidewalls, the second and

third vent conduits

1001b and 1001c may be return air openings through which air exits the growing area via the second and

third vent conduits

1001b and 1001c, the vent conduit 1001a is an air outlet through which air enters the growing area via the vent conduit 1001a, or the second and

third vent conduits

1001b and 1001c may be air outlet through which air exits the growing area via the second and

third vent conduits

1001b and 1001c, the first vent conduit a is a return air opening through which air enters the growing area via the a 1001.

The fans F1 and F2 on two sides enable the intensity of wind to be uniform, so that plants in different positions can grow equally; at the same time, the use of wall fans can increase the air flow so that the atmospheric environment within the entire system is the same.

FIG. 11 shows a schematic view of an air circulation system 110 according to yet another embodiment of the invention, side walls 103 are provided with air supply fans (not shown) that supply outside air to the interior of container 10 in the growing area.

The air circulation system 110 further includes Heating, Ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems (Heating Ventilation air conditioning), a Ventilation duct 1101a, a second Ventilation duct 1101b, a third Ventilation duct 1101c, a fourth Ventilation duct 1101d, a controller 1102a, a second controller 1102b, a third controller 1102c, the HVAC being in fluid communication with the Ventilation duct 1101a, the second Ventilation duct 1101b, and the third Ventilation duct 1101c, the Ventilation duct 1101a, the second Ventilation duct 1101b, the third Ventilation duct 1101c being in fluid communication with the fourth Ventilation duct 1101d, the controller 1102a being located at a connection of the Ventilation duct 1101a and the fourth Ventilation duct 1101d, the second controller 1102b being located at a connection of the second Ventilation duct 1101b and the fourth Ventilation duct 1101d, and the third controller 1102c being located at a connection of the third Ventilation duct c and the fourth Ventilation duct d.

The lower portion of the vent duct 1101a may have an open grill that communicates with the interior of the container 10.

The air circulation system 110 differs from the air circulation system 90 in that the air circulation system 110 does not have a wall tube 903, but rather a plurality of holes 1103 are provided in the upper surface of the floor. A fourth ventilation duct 1101d extends through the side wall and is in fluid communication with a plurality of apertures 1103 in the bottom upper surface of the vessel.

In this air circulation system 110, the second controller 1102b and the third controller 903c are operated, the HVAC sends the air supplied from the air supply fan to the under floor through the second ventilation duct 1101b and the third ventilation duct 1101c, and then the air flows to the inside of the container 10 through the plurality of holes 1103, at this time, the controller 1102a is operated to pull the air flowing to the inside of the container 10 from the plurality of holes 1103 into the ventilation duct 1101a and then back to the HVAC, forming an air circulation, and further, the HVAC sends the air to the inside of the container 10 through the ventilation duct 1101a, and the air enters the fourth ventilation duct 1101d through the holes of the floor surface, then enters the second ventilation duct 1101b and the third ventilation duct 1101c, and finally the air returns to the HVAC, forming an air circulation.

The various ducts in FIGS. 9-11 are isolated, custom-built duct paths that ensure that the treated fresh air can be evenly distributed throughout the internal system without the need for compression, and that the air can remain effectively recirculated to maintain optimal atmospheric conditions the air circulation system of FIGS. 9-11 circulates/flows the internal air multiple times per hour ensuring that the atmospheric conditions throughout the growth zone are good, and fresh air is continually replenished into the growth zone to promote healthy growth, and rapid gas flow also ensures that any changes in atmospheric parameters will be quickly effected.

The container 10 is also provided with an atmospheric pressure outlet, which may be provided in side walls of the container, within the growing area, which may be provided with a screen window, which opens to release the internal air when the pressure inside the container 10 is higher than the external atmospheric environment, thereby creating a positive pressure to have a regulated and controlled air flow system ensuring an equal atmospheric environment throughout the system.

With the air circulation system of fig. 9-11, the HVAC also functions as an air conditioner, i.e., when the temperature inside the container is too high or too low, the HVAC may blow cold or hot air into the room, and when the temperature of the air supplied by the air supply fan is too high or too low, the HVAC may first lower the temperature of the supplied air or raise the temperature of the supplied air.

It should be understood that the air circulation system of fig. 9-11 is exemplary only, and not limiting. The specific structure of the air circulation system is not limited to the specific form depicted in the specification and drawings.

The enclosed plant growing system may also be provided with a plurality of circuits including, but not limited to: the quick connection access port, the fuse box, the electric wire, the wire casing and the wireless access module. The quick connect access port may be a 50amp quick connect access port having an external electrical connection cable head. The quick connect access port enables power input to the internal system through a single point of insertion, ensuring that the user can easily make electrical settings. The fuse box comprises an AC contactor, a main switch, 14 fuses and an electric box which is grounded, and can reduce the danger of electric damage and ensure that an internal circuit is protected from external surge and internal component faults. The electric wire is a hard core copper wire. The internal components are supplied with power through the electric wires, and the amount of current flowing through the entire system can be safely operated. The trunking may be a waterproof, fire-resistant PVC cable guide. The arrangement of the wires in the raceway minimizes electrical hazards. The wireless access module may be a GSM/CDMA WiFi module that includes an industrial grade GSM/CDMA WiFi receiver and transmitter. The GSM/CDMA WiFi module can enable the internal system to have reliable Internet connection, and can be connected to an external server, so that continuous and continuous monitoring, data collection, analysis, adjustment and the like of the internal system are realized. The connection to the internet allows the system to respond to software updates and allows the system to operate in the most efficient manner, for example, turning on the system only at times when power consumption is low. It should be understood that the various components of the internal circuitry described above are merely exemplary, and that the various components may be in other forms.

According to embodiments of the invention, the enclosed plant cultivation system may include a monitoring system and a control system, the monitoring system may include an air temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a CO₂The system may include or more controllers to control the environment of the internal system, each sensor sensing a respective parameter value of the internal system in real time and then providing the respective parameter value to the controller, which automatically controls each portion of the internal system based on the received parameter value, thereby forming automatic feedback loops.

As shown in fig. 7a, 7c and 8a, the closed plant cultivation system is further provided with a lighting system L. The illumination system is disposed above the tray and the culture tank to illuminate the plants. In the illumination system, the light source used is an 18W1.2m CTW light source with a heat sink or a 16W philips LED module. It should be understood that the light source may be other types of light sources. Depending on the plant to be cultivated, light sources emitting light of different wavelengths and having different powers may be used.

The height of the light source is adjustable to ensure that the distance between the light source and the plant is an optimal distance and that different plants with different light quantity requirements can be met. In addition, since the height of the light source is adjustable, the light source can be adjusted to a position very close to the plant, so that the growth of the plant can be ensured with very low energy consumption, the energy utilization rate is improved, and the number of LED modules can be reduced. The way of adjusting the height of the light source may be manual adjustment, e.g. by a manual roller blind. In addition, a sensor, such as a laser, may be used to determine that the height of the plant is increased when the plant blocks the laser, thereby increasing the height of the light source.

Furthermore, the pressure pumps in the germination and seedling growth zone nutrient solution circulation system and in the cultivation and harvest zone nutrient solution circulation system may be switched on before the lighting system is switched on for 30 minutes and may be switched off after the lighting system is switched off for 30 minutes. It is to be understood that the illumination system may also illuminate for 24 hours.

As shown in FIG. 12, the plant-growing system includes containers 120, which containers 120 may be cabinets.A container 120 includes an upper growing section and a lower functional component section (which will be more clearly shown in FIG. 13). it should be understood that the relative positions of the growing and functional component sections are not limited thereto.A container 120 may include 1201, which 1201 may be split as shown in the drawings, or a single split . 1201 may be composed of glass G to facilitate viewing of the growth of plants in the growing section.A lower portion of 1201 may be sprayed with metal powder M to block components in the functional component section, such as water tanks and the like.A bottom of the container 120 may be provided with a plurality of wheels W to facilitate movement of the container.A lock L may be provided on 1201 to improve safety.

Fig. 13 shows a perspective view of the plant growing system of fig. 12, fig. 13 shows the inside of the container 120 and shows an exploded view of sides, the sides of the container 120 may be provided with attachments 1202, the attachments 1202 may be provided with U-shaped channels UC for the placement of water pipes and electrical wiring, the attachments 1202 may also be provided with a plurality of height adjustable holes 12021, which may be located in the growing area, and each hole 12021 may be fitted with a fan for air flow.

The attachment 1202 may be covered with metal plates 1203 for better aesthetics and protection of the attachment 1202, and the metal plates 1203 may be provided with handrails H to facilitate handling of the container 120. the metal plates 1203 are perforated with holes, the purpose of which will be described below.

The fan mounted on side is rotated to cause air to pass through the plurality of holes in the metal plate on the other side and the holes in the attachment 1202 on the other side to enter the interior of the container, and then the air is pulled toward side where the fan is located and flows out through the plurality of holes in the metal plate 1203 on side where the fan is located to effect flow of air from side to side .

It is to be understood that the structure of the side portion shown in fig. 13 is only schematic, and attachments and metal plates may not be provided, and water pipes, electric wires, and fans may not be provided in the attachments.

For air circulation in the system, at least fans may be installed on the side of the container and at least holes may be provided on the side opposite to the at least fans.

Also shown in FIG. 13 are multi-level shelves 1205. the multi-level shelves 1205 are located in the growing area the shelves are pulled out to facilitate work personnel operation preferably only levels of shelves are pulled out at a time to prevent the cabinet from toppling over.

Fig. 14a shows a top view of levels of shelves fig. 14a also shows a tray placed in the shelf 1205 for holding a culture medium S, which may be sponge, rockwool, ceramsite (LECA), coconut coir (cocout coir), perlite (perlite), vermiculite (vermiculite), etc. the plant to be cultivated is placed in the culture medium S.

FIG. 14b shows a bottom view of the shelf shown in FIG. 13, as shown in FIG. 14b, a lighting system LS is provided below the shelf, having at least light sources, which may be LEDs, the lighting system is provided above the tray to illuminate the plants, it is understood that the light sources may be other types of light sources, depending on the plants being cultivated, light sources emitting light of different wavelengths, different powers may be used.

The shelf is also provided with a fluid inlet WI and a fluid outlet WO for water circulation. Region 1401 may be used to house water pipes and electrical wiring, etc. The tray is also provided with a slide 1402 to facilitate sliding the shelf in and out of the container 120.

FIG. 15 shows a detailed schematic of the bottom of the container, which is a functional block that can house the various components required to operate the plant growing system, FIG. 15 shows that the bottom of the container can be provided with a th control system 1501, a second control system 1502 that can control the operation of the entire plant growing system, including for example, a monitoring system and a control system₂In addition, the control system may include or more controllers to control the internal systemThe monitoring system and control system may also be operated by the mobile device so that the system can be checked and adjusted at any location.

In addition, fig. 15 also shows a plurality of nutrient tanks 1503 and water tanks 1504, and the nutrient tanks 1503 are internally provided with nutrients which can provide nutrients for plants placed in the shelves. The nutrient tank 1503 may be in the form of a pump. It is to be understood that the functional component area may also be provided with other components.

A nutrient solution circulation system of the plant cultivation system will be described below, when the nutrient solution circulation system is just started, water is only in the water tank 1504, at which time an EC sensor provided in the water tank senses that the EC in the water tank 1504 is less than a lower limit value, the nutrient tank 1503 starts to deliver nutrients to the water tank, at which time water mixed with nutrients, i.e., nutrient solution, is pumped up from the water tank by pressure pumps (not shown) to a fluid flow pipe (e.g., a water pipe, not shown) that delivers the nutrient solution to a tray and leads the nutrient solution flowing out of the tray to the water tank.

Furthermore, the fluid flow conduit may also be connected to a fluid inlet WI for feeding nutrient solution to the tray, and the fluid flow conduit may also be connected to a fluid outlet WO through which nutrient solution flows from the tray and out to the water tank.

The water tank may also have a pH sensor, a water temperature sensor, and a dissolved oxygen sensor, the pH sensor may sense the pH of the nutrient solution in the water tank, the water tank may have a cooler disposed beside the water tank, the cooler may lower the temperature of the nutrient solution in the water tank when the water temperature sensor senses that the temperature of the nutrient solution in the water tank is too high, for example, 7.5 to 8.0, the dissolved oxygen sensor may sense the oxygen content of the nutrient solution in the water tank, and the air pump may be used to add dissolved air to the water tank when the water temperature sensor senses that the temperature of the nutrient solution in the water tank is too low.

The nutrient tank 1503 shown in the figure comprises a total of three tanks, two of which contain nutrients for plant growth and which are opened when it is desired to deliver nutrients to the water tank 1504 in order to place nutrients in different tanks to prevent different nutrients from reacting in the same tanks, and another tanks contain an acidic substance as described above for lowering the pH which is opened when the pH sensor senses that the pH of the nutrient solution in the water tank 1504 is too high.

The pressure pump may be turned on before the lighting system is turned on for 30 minutes and may be turned off after the lighting system is turned off for 30 minutes. It is to be understood that the illumination system may also illuminate for 24 hours.

The system shown in fig. 12-15 occupies a small space, and is particularly suitable for use in compact spaces such as restaurants. The system is convenient to use, and especially can provide a controllable growing environment for plants with short growing periods.

It should be understood that a variety of configurations used in the systems shown in fig. 1-11, such as lighting systems, nutrient solution circulation systems, may be used in the systems shown in fig. 12-15.

In each of the above embodiments, it is advantageous to provide the air circulation system such that air is not blown directly onto the plant material, but is drawn through the plant material by pulling the air away from the plant material. Thus, the plant is prevented from being in a tense state, and the growth of the plant is ensured.

Reference throughout this specification to " embodiments" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least embodiments of the present invention. thus, the appearances of the phrase "in embodiments" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, and moreover, in or more embodiments, a particular plurality of features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable combination and/or sub-combination.

The above description of illustrated embodiments of the invention, including what is described in the abstract, is not intended to be exhaustive or to be limiting to the precise forms disclosed. Rather, the specific embodiments of the invention and examples are shown for illustrative purposes only and various equivalent modifications can be made without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention. In fact, it is to be understood that the particular values, ranges, etc. of the parameters are for explanatory purposes and that other values may be used in other embodiments and implementations in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.

These modifications can be made to the embodiments of the present invention in light of the above detailed description. The terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the invention to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification and the claims. Rather, the scope of the invention is to be determined entirely by the following claims, which are to be construed in accordance with established doctrines of claim interpretation. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

Claims

A soilless culture system for plants, comprising:

containers, the interior of which provides spaces, said spaces including a growing area, said growing area including at least levels of shelves, said at least levels of shelves having components capable of holding growing media in which plants are placed, wherein sides of the containers are provided with at least fans;

a fluid circulation system including water tanks connected to the nutrient tanks, a plurality of nutrient tanks to which nutrients are supplied to form a nutrient solution in the water tanks, pressure pumps to pump the nutrient solution in the water tanks to the fluid flow conduit, which supplies the nutrient solution to the medium-containing part and leads the nutrient solution flowing out of the medium-containing part to the water tanks, and a fluid flow conduit, and

a lighting system, wherein a distance between the lighting system and the plant is adjustable.
2. A plant soilless culture system as claimed in claim 1 wherein the side opposite to said sides has at least holes, said at least fans drawing external air towards the space through said at least holes.
3. A plant soilless culture system as claimed in claim 2 wherein the side where the at least fans are located also has at least holes.
4. A plant soilless culture system as claimed in claim 2 wherein the opposite side portions are also provided with at least fans.
5. A plant soilless culture system as claimed in claim 1 or 4 wherein the blowing direction of the fan is variable.
6. A plant soilless culture system according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the space further includes a feature area, the feature area and the culture area being spaced from one another.
7. A plant soilless culture system as claimed in claim 6 wherein the means capable of receiving the culture substrate is a tray.
8. A plant soilless culture system as claimed in claim 1 wherein the fluid circulation system is of periodic, 24 hour uninterrupted or irregular circulation.
9. A plant soilless culture system as claimed in claim 1 wherein the nutrient tanks include tanks containing a substance capable of lowering the pH of the nutrient solution.
10. A plant soilless culture system as claimed in claim 1 wherein the shelf is provided with a fluid inlet port and a fluid outlet port.
11. A plant soilless culture system as claimed in claim 10 wherein the fluid flow conduit is connected to the fluid inlet port for delivering nutrient solution to the means for receiving the culture substrate; and

wherein the fluid flow pipe is also connected with the fluid discharge port, and nutrient solution flows out of the culture medium containing part through the fluid discharge port and is led out to the water tank through the fluid flow pipe.
12. A plant soilless culture system as claimed in claim 1 wherein the lighting system is above the plant.
13. A plant soilless culture system according to claim 1 wherein the pressure pump is turned on before the lighting system is turned on for 30 minutes and is turned off after the lighting system is turned off for 30 minutes.
14. A plant soilless culture system as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the container is cabinet units.
15. A plant soilless culture system according to claim 14 wherein the upper portion of the cabinet is the culture region and the lower portion of the cabinet is the feature region.
16. A plant soilless culture system as claimed in claim 14 wherein the cabinet includes .
17. A plant soilless culture system as claimed in claim 16 wherein the is made of glass.
18. A plant soilless culture system according to claim 17 wherein the portion of the glass corresponding to the functional component area is sprayed with metal powder.
19. A plant soilless culture system as claimed in claim 14 wherein the bottom of the cabinet is provided with a plurality of wheels.
20. A plant soilless culture system as claimed in claim 1 wherein a slide is provided on the shelf to enable the shelf to be pulled out of the container.
21. A plant soilless culture system as claimed in claim 1 wherein the culture substrate is sponge, rockwool, haydite, coconut coir, perlite or vermiculite.
22. A plant soilless culture system as claimed in claim 1 wherein the container is provided with a wireless access module.