WO2017030524A1 - Dispositif de culture hydroponique - Google Patents

Dispositif de culture hydroponique Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2017030524A1
WO2017030524A1 PCT/US2015/045211 US2015045211W WO2017030524A1 WO 2017030524 A1 WO2017030524 A1 WO 2017030524A1 US 2015045211 W US2015045211 W US 2015045211W WO 2017030524 A1 WO2017030524 A1 WO 2017030524A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
seed
belt
liquid
growing
hydroponic
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2015/045211
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Dihl GROHS
Original Assignee
Pbr, Llc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Pbr, Llc filed Critical Pbr, Llc
Priority to PCT/US2015/045211 priority Critical patent/WO2017030524A1/fr
Publication of WO2017030524A1 publication Critical patent/WO2017030524A1/fr

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G31/00—Soilless cultivation, e.g. hydroponics
    • A01G31/02—Special apparatus therefor
    • A01G31/06—Hydroponic culture on racks or in stacked containers
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02P—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES IN THE PRODUCTION OR PROCESSING OF GOODS
    • Y02P60/00—Technologies relating to agriculture, livestock or agroalimentary industries
    • Y02P60/20—Reduction of greenhouse gas [GHG] emissions in agriculture, e.g. CO2
    • Y02P60/21—Dinitrogen oxide [N2O], e.g. using aquaponics, hydroponics or efficiency measures

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to a hydroponic grower. More specifically, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a hydroponic growing apparatus, system, method, and kit.
  • Hydroponic feed growing is of increasing interest for many reasons.
  • the increasing cost for raising feed have become, in some instances, cost prohibitive.
  • hydroponic systems are developed and sold without the volume of feed production and return on investment being an integral factor. In other words, existing systems are not easily tailorable to fit the size of a herd.
  • Another object, feature, or advantage of the present disclosure is to provide a hydroponic growing apparatus, system, method, and kit that is completely tailorable to fit the specific volume of feed production desired and meets the return on investment criteria considered when weighing other hydroponic and non-hydroponic feed growing options.
  • a significant factor in growing feed are the cost of the inputs.
  • Water is a cost of increasing significance.
  • Water and/or liquid conservation for both hydroponic and non- hydroponic feed growth is of paramount concern.
  • Other inputs of significant, and certainly relevant consideration include the cost of seed and preservation of seed in the process of hydroponically growing feed.
  • Still other inputs or concerns include the operational footprint or floor space needed, the electricity required, and the ability to tailor the input and output according to need and the costs, abundance/non-abundance of the relevant inputs into the process for growing feed hydroponically at comparatively low operating costs providing healthy feed or live green feed 365 days of the year.
  • Another object, feature, or advantage of the present disclosure is to provide a hydroponic growing apparatus, system, method, and kit that maximizes the return on investment for the inputs needed for hydroponically growing feed by providing a solution that addresses each concern and other factors or concerns relevant to the process of growing feed hydroponically.
  • a still further object, feature, or advantage of the present disclosure is to provide a hydroponic growing apparatus, system, method, and kit designed as modulated systems for meeting the variation in the needs of hydroponic feed growers while providing cost effective solutions for pre and post-handling seed, growing feed and managing other inputs used in the process.
  • Yet another object, feature, or advantage of the present disclosure is to provide a hydroponic grower for small grains such as barley and wheat that can be harvested in 5-7 days.
  • the present disclosure provides a hydroponic seed growing system.
  • One exemplary embodiment provides a hydroponic seed growing system that includes a plurality of vertical and horizontal members connected together to form an upstanding seed growing table with one or more horizontally disposed seed beds.
  • a seed belt is carried by opposing rollers on the seed growing table.
  • the seed belt can be configured having a mat portion with ends tethered together by a linkage portion carried by one of the opposing rollers connected to a drive mechanism.
  • a liquid applicator can be spaced adjacent at least one longitudinal edge of the seed belt for irrigating the seed belt.
  • a drain trough can also be spaced adjacent at least one longitudinal edge of the seed belt for capturing runoff liquid.
  • the system can include a seeder having a seed meter and a discharge.
  • the seeder can be configured to detach and attach to the seed growing table and thereby be removably positionable adjacent one of the opposing rollers.
  • the system can also include a cutter having one or more cutting elements and an intake. The cutter can be configured to detach and attach to the seed growing table and thereby be removably positionable adjacent one of the opposing rollers.
  • the apparatus can include a plurality of vertical and horizontal members connected together to form an upstanding seed growing table with one or more seed beds.
  • a seed belt is carried by opposing rollers on the seed growing table.
  • the seed belt includes a mat portion with ends tethered together in spaced relation by a linkage portion carried by one of the opposing rollers.
  • a liquid applicator can be spaced adjacent at least one longitudinal edge of the seed belt for irrigating the seed belt and a drain trough can be spaced adjacent at least one longitudinal edge of the seed belt for capturing runoff liquid.
  • a liquid collector can be plumbed in connection with the drain trough for collecting and recycling runoff liquid to the liquid applicator.
  • the linkage member is generally atop the mat in an offloaded position.
  • the hydroponic seed growing apparatus includes a seeder having a seed meter and a discharge.
  • the seeder can be configured having a detached and attached position to the seed growing table and is thereby removably positionable adjacent one of the opposing rollers.
  • a motor on the seeder or seed growing table can be operably connected to the drive mechanism on the seed belt for moving the seed belt from the offloaded position to an onloaded position.
  • the hydronic seed growing apparatus includes a cutter having one or more cutting elements and an intake.
  • the cutter can be configured having a detached and attached position to the seed growing table and is thereby positionable adjacent one of the opposing rollers.
  • a motor on the cutter or seed growing table can be operably connected to the drive mechanism on the seed belt for moving the seed belt from an onloaded position to the offloaded position.
  • Yet another embodiment provides a method for hydroponically growing seed.
  • a seed belt is carried by opposing rollers on the seed growing table for driving the seed belt between onloaded and offloaded positions.
  • the seed belt includes a mat portion with ends tethered together in spaced relation by a linkage portion carried by one of the opposing rollers on the seed growing table.
  • the seed belt can be irrigated with a liquid applicator spaced adjacent at least one longitudinal edge of the seed belt. Runoff liquid can be captured in a drain trough spaced adjacent at least one longitudinal edge of the seed belt. In operation, rotating the seed belt in a first direction to the onloaded position and a second opposite direction to the offloaded position.
  • coupling a seeder metering unit to the seed growing table adjacent one of the opposing rollers can offload seed onto the seed belt when driven from the offloaded to the onloaded position.
  • operating a seed metering unit on the seed metering stanchion can meter seed onto the seed belt and/or agitate seed within the seed metering unit.
  • coupling a cutting unit to the seed growing table adjacent one of the opposing rollers can cut grown feed when the seed belt is driven from the onloaded to the offloaded position with the cutting unit.
  • the cutting unit can cut a width of seed growth with one or more laterally spaced blades and/or cut a length of seed growth with at least one blade having a lateral direction of travel.
  • Fig. 1 is a pictorial representation of a hydroponic grower in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 2 is another pictorial representation of the hydroponic grower in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 3 is another pictorial representation of the hydroponic grower in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 4 is yet another pictorial representation of the hydroponic grower in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 5 is still another pictorial representation of the hydroponic grower in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 6 is a pictorial representation of a liquid applicator on the hydroponic grower in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 7 is another pictorial representation of a liquid applicator on the hydroponic grower in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 8 is another pictorial representation of a liquid applicator on the hydroponic grower in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 9 is a pictorial representation of a seeder in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 10 is another pictorial representation of a seeder in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 1 1 is a pictorial representation of a cross section of the seeder shown in Fig
  • Fig. 12 is a pictorial representation of the seeder shown in Fig. 9 removably positioned on the seed growing table in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 13 is a pictorial representation of another seeder of the disclosure in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 14 is a pictorial representation of a cross section of the seeder shown in Fig. 13 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 15 is a pictorial representation of the seeder shown in Fig. 13 removably positioned on the seed growing table in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 16 is a pictorial representation of a cutter in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 17 is another pictorial representation of the cutter in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 18 is a pictorial representation of a cross section of the cutter shown in Fig. 16 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 19 is a pictorial representation of the cutter shown in Fig. 15 removably positioned on the seed growing table in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 20 is a pictorial representation of another cutter of the disclosure in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 21 is a pictorial representation of the cutter shown in Fig. 20 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment
  • Fig. 22 is a pictorial representation of a cross section of the cutter shown in Fig. 20 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.
  • Fig 23 is a pictorial representation of the cutter shown in Fig. 20 removably positioned on the seed growing table in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.
  • the present disclosure provides a hydroponic growing apparatus, system, method, and kit.
  • the a hydroponic growing apparatus, system, method, and kit can be operated, configured and scaled according to need and/or change in need, according to the type and/or cost of the inputs and/or change in the type and/or cost of the inputs, according to the available footprint and/or change in the available footprint for housing a hydroponic grower, according to the size and/or changes in size of a herd, according to the number of available laborers and/or change in number of available laborers, according to the climate and/or change in the climate, according to the grower's allocatable resources and/or change in the grower's allocatable resources.
  • What follows are exemplary aspects and descriptions for one or more of the apparatuses, systems, methods, and kits of the present disclosure.
  • FIGS 1-8 are pictorial representations of a hydroponic grower 10 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.
  • the grower 10 shown in the various views includes a plurality of vertical members 12 and horizontal members 14 removably interconnected to form an upstanding seed growing table 16 with one or more seed beds 18.
  • Each vertical number 12 can be configured to terminate in an adjustable height footing 20.
  • Each footing 20 can be adjusted to change the relative vertical position or height of one vertical number 12 relative to another vertical number 12 of the seed growing table 16.
  • the horizontal members 14 can be configured to include one or more lateral members removably interconnected with one or more longitudinal members 24.
  • a pair of vertical members 12 are separated laterally by a lateral member 22 thereby defining the width or depth of the seed growing table 16.
  • the lateral numbers 22 can be configured so that the width/depth of the seed growing table 16 is roughly 6 feet. Other configurations of the grower 10 contemplate widths/depths in excess of 6 feet, based, for example, on the desired feed output and footprint for housing the grower 10. In the case where narrower widths/depths are needed, the lateral members 22 can be configured so that the width/depth of the seed growing table 16 is less than 6 feet.
  • Members 12, 14, 22 and 24, including other members forming grower 10 can be comprised of stainless steel, mild steel (powder coated), mild steel (galvanized), galvanized steel, and like metal/metal-alloy compositions, but are not limited to those expressly provided herein.
  • Members of grower 10 can comprise a baked on powder coat paint, hot galvanized finish and/or stainless steel finish. All contemplated parts can be laser cut to exact CAD drawing specifications, bent to appropriate shape, and in the case of the mild steel, for example, can be either powder coated or galvanized. Thus, grower 10 is low maintenance. Also and ideally, lateral members 22 are removably interconnected to vertical members 12 by a tongue and groove connection 26 to allow for assembly, disassembly, and reassembly of the grower 10. Although a tongue and groove connection 26 is specified, the present disclosure contemplates other connectors, fittings, and securement means for
  • a slot and/or bolt configuration can be used to removably secure components of grower 10 together.
  • the length of vertical members 12 generally determines the height of the seed growing table 16. By adjusting the length of vertical members 12 one is able to adjust a height of seed growing table 16.
  • the height of the seed growing table 16 can be configured, for example, according to the desired feed output and available footprint for housing the grower 10.
  • the seed growing table 16, based primarily on height, can be configured with one or more seed beds 18. In at least one configuration, seed growing table 16 can be configured with 1-7 seed beds 18. The number of seed beds 18 can be increased or decreased according to need and available footprint for housing the grower 10.
  • seed growing table 16 can be configured with more than 7 seed beds 18.
  • the spacing between seed beds 18 can also determine the number of seed beds 18 of seed growing table 16. For example, increasing the spacing between seed beds 18 can decrease the number of seed beds 18 of seed growing table 16. Alternatively, decreasing the spacing between seed beds 18 can increase the number of seed beds 18 of seed growing table 16.
  • the length of seed growing table 16 is determined generally by the length of horizontal members 14.
  • a pair of vertical members 12 our removably interconnected by one or more horizontal members 14 to form a span of seed growing table 16.
  • horizontal members 14 are configured generally to form a subfloor for seed bed 18.
  • the length of seed beds 18 is determined generally by the length of horizontal members 14.
  • horizontal members 14 can be configured as 8 foot, 16 foot, 24 foot or 32 foot lengths.
  • seed grow table 16 can be configured to have an 8 foot, 16 foot, 24 foot, or 32 foot length. Other lengths, of course, are contemplated according to the desired feed output and available footprint for housing grower 10.
  • Horizontal members 14 include lateral members 22 and longitudinal members 24.
  • Longitudinal members 24 are removably interconnected with lateral members 22 by one or more connections 26. Ideally, lateral members 22 are removably interconnected to longitudinal members 24 by a tongue and groove connection 26 to allow for assembly, disassembly, and reassembly of the grower 10. Although a tongue and groove connection 26 is specified, the present disclosure contemplates other connectors, fittings, and securement means for interconnecting components, subcomponents and assemblies of the present disclosure.
  • Longitudinal numbers 24 are spaced, generally equally, across the depth/width of the seed growing table 16. In accordance with at least one embodiment, longitudinal members 24 are spaced 6 inches apart. Other spacing distances for longitudinal members 24 are contemplated. For example, longitudinal members 24 can be spaced closer together such as 3 inches apart or farther apart such as 8 inches apart or greater. The spacing of longitudinal members 24 provides a subfloor for supporting seed bed 18.
  • the dimensions of seed growing table 16 are configurable according to need, desired feed output, available footprint for housing grower 10, etc.
  • Each of the components of seed growing table 16 are configured so that the seed growing table 16 can be modulated and thereby provide a scalable grower 10.
  • length of seed bed 18 can be configurable according to need, desired feed output, available footprint for housing grower 10, etc.
  • length of seed bed 18 can be scalable in length from 8 foot to 16 foot, 16 foot to 24 foot, 24 foot to 32 foot, and so forth.
  • length of seed bed 18 can be configurable according to need, desired feed output, available footprint for housing grower 10, by altering length of seed bed 18 which can be scalable and length from 32 foot to 24 foot, 24 foot to 16 foot, 16 foot to 8 foot, and so forth. Although dimensions are provided here, the present disclosure contemplates other increments in scalability of grower 10.
  • the type of connections 26 allow quick assembly, disassembly, and reassembly of growers 10.
  • connections 26 and the overall design of grower 10 allow quick expansion or contraction of the size/scale of grower 10 to fit need, desired feed output, available footprint for housing grower 10, and other consideration criteria set forth herein.
  • grower 10 can be configured as an 8 foot seed growing table 16 and because the design is highly scalable can be quickly converted into a larger seed growing table 16, such as a 16, 24, 32 foot seed growing table 16.
  • a larger seed growing table 16 can be quickly reconfigured as a smaller seed growing table 16 to accommodate the decrease in need, desired feed output, or changed and available footprint for housing grower 10, or change in other consideration criteria set forth herein.
  • Footing 20 is adjustable to adjust at level seed growing table 16.
  • Each seed bed 18 includes a seed belt 28 operably supported by seed growing table 16.
  • Seed belt 28 can be configured according to the width/depth of seed growing table 16. By way of example, the width/depth of seed belt 28 can be altered according to changes in the width/depth of seed growing table 16.
  • the seed belt 28 can be configured of vinyl, polycarbonate, rubber, nitrile rubber, polyvinyl chloride, or other like materials.
  • the seed belt 28 material can be hydrophobic, semi-hydrophobic or permeable to liquid. And at least one aspect, a hydrophobic material they be employed to keep liquid atop the seed belt 28. In another aspect, eight permeable or semi-permeable material can be employed to allow liquid to pass through the seed belt 28. Advantages and disadvantages of both are discussed herein.
  • Seed belt 28 has separated terminal ends 32 interconnected by a linkage 34.
  • seed belt 28 has a continuous belt, in at least one preferred aspect of the disclosure seed belt 28 as a discontinuous belt with terminal ends 32 interconnected by linkage 34.
  • Linkage 34 his preferably a cable or other like linkage number.
  • One or more linkages 34 can be interconnected between terminal hands 32 of seed belt 28.
  • seed belt 28 and linkage(s) 34 comprise a continuous belt.
  • seed belt 28 includes a mat portion 36 and a linkage portion 34. Seed belt 28 is supported by seed bed 18. Specifically, mat portion 36 of seed belt 28 is operably supported by seed bed 18.
  • Opposing ends of seed bed 18 generally adjacent a lateral number 22 include one or more rollers 30 operably configured to rotatably support seed belt 28.
  • One end of seed bed 18 can be configured to operably support a roller 30 over which mat portion 36 of seed belt 28 is supportively rotated.
  • roller 30 can be configured as a belt roller.
  • roller 30 can be configured as a cogged (cable) roller or cable idler pulley for receiving and supportively housing rotating linkage portion 34 of seed belt 28 therein.
  • one end of each seed bed 18 can be configured with a belt roller 30 and the other end of the seed bed 18 can be configured with one or more cable idler pulleys 31.
  • the cable idler pulleys 31 can be configured to operably control travel of the linkage portion 34.
  • the cable idler pulleys 31 hold the cables in position allowing the belt 28 to track as it travels along the seed bed 18.
  • a pair of cable idler pulleys 31 can be operably configured on an end of the seed bed 18 for receiving a pair of linkages 34 comprising a pair of cables.
  • cable idler pulleys 31 are adjustable in position along the end of the seed bed 18 to provide better tracking of the belt 28 when moving between loading and unloading positions.
  • cable idler pulleys 31 can operably control alignment of seed belt 28 when traveling between loading and unloading positions.
  • the one or more rollers 30 can be configured with a drive mechanism 37 operably connected or configured to drive the one or more rollers 30 by mechanical and/or electrical power/operation of another drive mechanism 74 discussed later herein.
  • the drive mechanism 37 can be a motor, powered electrically, pneumatically, hydraulically, or even manually.
  • Drive mechanism comprises an electrical motor powered by an electrical source remote from or associated with the seed growing table 16.
  • seed growing table 16 can be operably configured with a power source, such as an electrochemical source, for powering drive mechanism 37.
  • seed belt 28 When unloading seed and offloading feed, the mat portion 36 of seed belt 28 is rotated about a belt roller and linkage portion 34 of seed belt 28 is rotated about a cogged roller, according to at least one configuration of grower 10. Either roller type can be driven by drive mechanism 37 and/or drive mechanism 74 discussed later herein. Seed belt 28 has an offloaded position and an onloaded position and continuous positions there between accomplished by a rotating seed belt 28. In the onloaded position, mat 36 is atop linkage 34 of seed belt 28. Conversely, in the offloaded position, linkage 34 is atop mat 36 of seed belt 28.
  • Seed belt 28 rotates in a first direction to onload seed atop seed belt 28. Conversely, seed belt 28 rotates in a second direction opposite the first direction to offload feed.
  • mat 36 rotates atop linkage 34.
  • linkage 34 rotates atop mat 36.
  • Each seed bed 18 of seed growing table 16 is similarly configured, has provided herein.
  • Grower 10 can include a number, as discussed herein, of seed beds 18.
  • Each seed bed 18 includes a liquid applicator 38 operably configured adjacent at least one longitudinal edge of seed belt 28 as best shown in Figures 6-8.
  • Liquid applicator 38 can also be operably configured adjacent at least one lateral edge of seed belt 28.
  • liquid applicator 28 is configured adjacent a longitudinal edge of seed belt 28 to thereby irrigate seed belt 28 and seed carried by seed belt 28.
  • Liquid applicator 38 includes a liquid guide 39 and liquid distributor 40 with a liquid egress 42 having a generally undulated profile, such as a sawtooth or wavy profile generally providing peak (higher elevated) and valley (lower elevated) portions.
  • Liquid applicator 38 can include a liquid line 41 configured to carry liquid from a liquid source, such as a liquid collector or plumbed water line. Liquid exits a liquid line 41, for example, one or more openings and is captured upon exiting liquid line 41 by liquid guide 39 and liquid distributor 40.
  • the one or more openings in liquid line 41 can be configured to as liquid drippers,
  • the one or more openings can be operably configured in liquid line 41 at an end of the seed bed 18 having idler pulleys 31 as rollers. Alternatively, the one or more openings can be configured in liquid line 41 intermittently across a length of liquid line 41 or coalesced at a zone of liquid line 41.
  • the one or more openings in liquid line 41 can be operably configured to equally distribute the water down the seed bed 18 and slowly drip liquid onto each seed bed 18. Too much water can drown seeds and too little irrigation can starve them. Spraying over the top of seed can increase humidity and promote mold growth. Drip irrigation can provide liquid to seed on seed bed 18 in a controlled, even distributive flow.
  • Liquid distributor 40 can be configured with a liquid guide 39 (e.g., a hood portion) adapted to collect liquid as it exits liquid line 41. Collected liquid is evenly distributed by liquid distributor 40 and exits liquid distributor 40 onto seed belt 28 via liquid egress 42. According to at least one embodiment, liquid egresses onto seed belt 28 through valley (lower elevated) portions of liquid egress 42. In this manner, egressing liquid is evenly distributed across seed belt 28.
  • a liquid applicator 38 is generally configured to irrigate seed belt 28 from a longitudinal edge of seed belt 28. Liquid applicator 38 can be operably configured along a longitudinal edge of seed belt 28 at an elevation generally above the elevation of the seed belt 28.
  • liquid distributor 40 can be operably configured to extend inward from the longitudinal edge of seed belt 28 to thereby position liquid egress 42 a further distance away from the longitudinal edge of seed belt 28 in a direction toward the center of seed belt 28.
  • liquid distributor 40 can be configured having a downward profile to encourage movement of liquid toward liquid egress 42.
  • liquid egressing from liquid distributor 40 travels atop seed belt 28 beneath and/or between a seed mass atop seed belt 28.
  • Other configurations of liquid applicator 38 are also contemplated herein. For example, in a preferred design, liquid enters liquid applicator 38 through a liquid line 44 and exits liquid line 44 through a plurality of openings.
  • Liquid from liquid line 44 coalesces into a small reservoir creating a balanced distribution of liquid across a length of liquid distributor 40. When this small reservoir becomes full the liquid runs over and out of liquid egress 42, such as between the teeth of liquid egress 42. In this manner, liquid is equally distributed down an entire length of each seed bed 18 of the seed growing table 16. From liquid egress 42, liquid drips onto a seed belt 28 of each seed bed 18 where it runs under a bulk of seed on the seed belt 28 to hydrate the seed. The root system of seed on seed belt 28, along with a wicking effect, moves the liquid up through the seed to water all of the seeds and/or plants.
  • Liquid applicator 38 can be configured atop seed bed 18 to provide sprinkle irrigation of seed belt 28, or alternatively flood irrigation of seed belt 28.
  • liquid is introduced onto seed belt 28 and a general matter so as to flood irrigate seed belt 28 along a longitudinal edge of seed belt 28 thus allowing liquid to access the entire seed mass a top seed belt 28.
  • liquid introduced atop the seed belt 28 can be suspended atop seed belt 28 or allowed to permeate seed belt 28 and thereby, due to gravity, passes downward on onto a lower situated seed bed 18 and/or liquid collector disposed beneath seed growing table 16.
  • seed bed 18 can have configured along a longitudinal edge a drain trough 44 adapted to collect runoff liquid from seed belt 28.
  • a liquid collector 46 can be operably plumbed into connection with drain trough 44 for collecting runoff liquid.
  • Liquid collector 46 can also be configured to collect liquid passing through seed belt 28, such as in the embodiments were seed belt 28 is configured to be permeable to liquid.
  • liquid collector 46 can be configured with an open top to receive descending liquid from above disposed seed beds 18.
  • a liquid collector 46 can be configured with a pump (not shown) operating under manual input or electrical charge provided from an electrochemical source, electrical outlet, or solar power. The pump can be operably plumbed into connection with liquid applicator 38 to recycle liquid collected. Additives can be combined with liquid in the liquid collector 46 and recycled to liquid applicator 38 for irrigating seed with liquid having desired additives.
  • Liquid collector 46 can be configured as a settling tank where sentiment and other particulate matter separates from liquid before being recycled back to liquid applicator 38.
  • Liquid collector 46 can be configured alone as a multi-gallon tank, such as a 50 gal, 75 gal, 100 gal or larger capacity tank together with a small settling tank.
  • each seed bed 18 has a drain trough 44 that runs the entire length of seed bed 18 with one opening which can be located at the end of the seed bed comprising one or more idler pulleys 31.
  • the opening or drain fixture of drain trough 44 can be configured with a fitting with a screen material over it (e.g., plastic screen) that is operably configured to catch debris and seed, such as, to prevent them from entering into the plumbed drain system of seed growing table 16.
  • a liquid conduit can be operably attached on the bottom a screened fitting associated with the above trough 44 and be operably plumbed into connection with drain trough 44 on each subsequent seed bed 18 in descending order.
  • the drain trough 44 associated with the top seed bed 18 can be configured to drain into drain trough 44 associated with the next seed bed 18 on the next level, and so forth and so on until liquid from above-situated seed beds 18 drains into drain trough 44 of the lower-most seed bed 18.
  • the lower-most seed bed 18 is operably plumbed into connection with a liquid collector 46, such as a small reservoir or sediment tank.
  • a sediment tank for a liquid collector 46 could be configured to hold, for example, 5 gallons or less of liquid.
  • a sediment tank could be operably plumbed into communication with another separate liquid collector, such as a holding tank. Spill-over from a sediment tank could flow into a larger, holding tank that could hold, for example, 60 gallons of liquid or more.
  • a sediment tank could be used to trap particulate matter (e.g., less buoyant particulate settling to the bottom) that comes into the drain troughs 44 or a drainage system of the grower 10.
  • a sediment tank can be easily removed and cleaned as needed. By running liquid over the top of a sediment tank into the larger tank the larger contaminants can remain in a sediment tank.
  • a larger (holding) tank can be configured with a float valve that is operably connected to a liquid supply, such as of the type set forth herein.
  • a float valve can be actuated to supply fresh liquid through a liquid line to replenish the liquid that has been used by hydroponically growing feed.
  • a larger (holding) tank e.g., liquid collector 46
  • a larger tank can be operably configured with a pump for moving liquid from a liquid collector 46 (e.g., sediment or holding tank) into a liquid distribution system operable plumbed into connection with a liquid applicator 38 associated with each seed bed 18.
  • a plumbed system comprising a liquid distribution network can be configured with a pressure regulator that can maintain an even flow through all of liquid flow paths, such as liquid applicators 38.
  • additives can be introduced directly or indirectly into liquid applicator 38.
  • Contemplated additives include, for example, additives added into a tank to promote plant growth, increase vitamins and minerals in liquid feed form and/or increase feed nutritional value, but are not limited to those expressly provided herein.
  • drain trough 44 associated with each seed bed 18 is operably plumbed into connection with liquid collector 46.
  • liquid collector 46 can be configured as a closed-loop system whereby a pump can be configured to pressurize liquid collector 46 to circulate liquid to the liquid applicator 38.
  • a plumbed line between drain trough 44 and liquid collector 46 can be pressurized to pump runoff liquid into a liquid collector 46 and recycle liquid back to liquid applicator 38.
  • a submersible pump can be configured within liquid collector 46 for moving liquid from liquid collector 46 to the liquid applicator 38.
  • Liquid applicator 38 can be operably controlled by a timer, user interface or remotely.
  • Operation of liquid applicator 38 can be triggered by one or more operations of grower 10.
  • operation of a seed belt 28 can trigger operation of liquid applicator 38.
  • the process of irrigating seed belt 28 can be automated by central control, graphical user interface, and/or remote control.
  • liquid applicator 38 may be operably configured to clean a seed belt 28 between batches of hydroponically grown feed.
  • Each seed bed 18 includes one or more light elements 48 for illuminating seed atop seed belt 28 to facilitate hydroponic growth of seed or a seed mass atop seed belt 28.
  • Light elements 48 are operably positioned directly/indirectly above each seed bed 18.
  • Light elements 48 can be powered by an electrochemical source, electrical outlet, and/or solar power.
  • Contemplated lights elements 48 include, for example, halide, sodium, fluorescent, and LED strips/panels/ropes, but are not limited to those expressly provided herein.
  • One or more reflectors (not shown) can be employed to redirect light from a remote source not disposed above each seed bed 18.
  • Light elements 48 can be operably controlled by a timer, user interface or remotely. Operation of light elements 48 can be triggered by one or more operations of grower 10. For example, operation of a seed belt 28 can trigger operation of light elements 48.
  • the process of lighting a seed bed 18 can be automated by central control, graphical user interface, and/or remote control.
  • FIGS 9-12 are pictorial representations of a seeder 50 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.
  • Seeder 50 includes a seed hopper 54 comprised of a plurality of upstanding walls with lower edge walls terminating in a discharge 56.
  • An operable gate can be disposed within seed hopper 54 to control passage of seed from within seed hopper 54 through discharge 56.
  • a gate within the discharge 56 can be operated manually, mechanically or electro-mechanically.
  • the top end of seed hopper 54 includes an intake 55 through which seed is introduced into seed hopper 54.
  • Contemplated seed includes, for example, wheat, barley, alfalfa, clover, oats, sorghum, greens, peas, sunflower, buckwheat, millet, and rye, but are not limited to those expressly provided herein.
  • a seed meter 58 can be disposed within discharge 56 of seed hopper 54 so as to occlude discharge 56 and the passage of seed through discharge 56 accept by operation of seed meter 58.
  • seed hopper 50 is full of seed, seed can pass through discharge 56 by operation of the gate and/or seed meter 58.
  • a separate transportable cart can be configured with a liquid basin for soaking and housing a batch of seed together with liquid.
  • the cart can also include in addition to the liquid basin for soaking seed, a liquid reservoir plumbed in operable connection with liquid basin that includes a pump for pumping liquid from liquid reservoir into the liquid basin.
  • the pump can be configured to operate under manual input or electrical charge provided from an electrochemical source, electrical outlet, or solar power source.
  • a liquid within liquid reservoir can be supplemented with one or more additives, such as those contemplated, but not limited to those expressly specified/provided herein, by introducing one or more additives into the liquid reservoir.
  • a seed and liquid mixture within a liquid basin can be agitated by operation of agitator. Agitation of seed and liquid within the liquid basin can provide sanitation of seed.
  • Liquid in liquid basin alone, or together with one or more additives can be used to kill mold, fungi, bacteria and other unwanted contaminants present with seed.
  • contemplated additives include those additives that can kill or otherwise remove contaminants, foreign substances or other undesirables from seed prior to placement of seed within seeder 50 and subsequent discharge onto seed belt 28.
  • liquid combined with seed in a liquid basin housing liquid and seed can facilitate an earlier hydroponic response in seed prior to placement of seed within seeder 50 and discharge onto seed belt 28.
  • the growing process for seed can begin within a liquid basin and prior to placement of seed within seeder 50 and discharge onto seed belt 28.
  • liquid basin can be purged and/or flushed to reduce and possibly prevent introduction of unwanted constituents into seeder 50 when seed is moved from the liquid basin into seeder 50.
  • the cart can be configured to include one or more steps for allowing an operator to access seeder 50 and for filling and removing seed from seeder 50.
  • seeder 50 may be raised and lowered to allow an operator to fill seeder 50 with and remove seed from seeder 50.
  • a mechanical coupler 72 that operably secures seeder 50 to seed growing table 16.
  • mechanical coupler 72 can be configured as one or more pair of hooks removably attachable to one or more rollers 30 for securing seeder 50 at the level and the end of a selected seed belt 28.
  • the one or more pair of hooks for example, can be configured to removably secure one or more hooks at opposing ends of a roller 30 adjacent opposing vertical members 12.
  • hooks are disclosed as a form of a mechanical coupler 72, the present disclosure contemplates various coupler types for removably securing seeder 50 to seed growing table 16.
  • seeder 50 can include, for example, bolts, pins, clips, snaps, and other coupling devices for removably interconnecting seeder 50 with seed growing table 16.
  • seeder 50 being mobile up and down, can be operatively positioned adjacent one of the rollers 30 of seed belt 28 and operatively secured/locked to seed growing table 16.
  • seeder 50 is operably secured to seed growing table 16 at the onloading end and at the level of a seed belt 28.
  • Mechanical coupler 72 secures together seeder 50 with seed growing table 16.
  • a drive mechanism operably carried by seeder 50 and under operable control of a motor is also mechanically/electrically coupled with drive mechanism 37 associated with a seed belt 28.
  • drive mechanism 74 operably coupled to drive mechanism 37 provides rotation to a seed belt 28.
  • the mechanical input and/or electrical input for driving rotation of a seed belt 28 can be provided by drive mechanism 74 on seeder 50.
  • a motor on seeder 50 can be configured to provide operable control over seeder 50 and drive mechanism 74, and any other devices capable of being driven are operated by a motor.
  • a motor can operate seeder 50 while simultaneously operating drive mechanism 37 for rotating seed belt 28.
  • drive mechanism 37 can be operably configured to provide not only an input for rotating seed belt 28 but also provide one or more inputs for operating seeder 50.
  • rotational output by drive mechanism 37 can be operably coupled with and for operating one or more operations for seeder 50.
  • These can include, for example, operation of the seed meter within seeder 50, operation of a seed gate, operation of a seed and/or liquid agitator, operation of an auger, and/or operation of a pump.
  • Seed growing table 16 can be configured so that seeder 50 can be lowered and raised to the level of each seed belt 28 of the seed growing table 16. In this manner, discharge 56 of seed hopper 54 is positioned adjacent and at the elevation of the onloading end of a seed belt 28. Height of seeder 50 can be adjusted mechanically or electrically.
  • a motor such as motor 62, can be operably configured to raise and lower seeder 50 along the height of seed growing table 16.
  • Discharge 56 of seeder 50 can be configured to spread and distribute an even thickness of seed onto seed belt 28 while moving from the offloaded position to the onloaded position. As seed is taken onto seed belt 28 seed is drawn out of seeder hopper 54.
  • FIG. 13-15 are pictorial representations of another seeder 50 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.
  • Seeder 50 includes a stanchion 52 operably configured atop one or more casters for mobility.
  • a seed hopper 54 Disposed on stanchion 52 is a seed hopper 54 comprised of a plurality of upstanding walls with lower edge walls terminating in a discharge 56 housing a seed meter 58.
  • an agitator 60 operably disposed within seed hopper 54.
  • the top end of seed hopper 54 includes an opening through which seed is introduced into seed hopper 54.
  • Contemplated seed includes, for example, wheat, barley, alfalfa, clover, oats, sorghum, greens, peas, sunflower, buckwheat, millet, and rye, but are not limited to those expressly provided herein.
  • a motor 62 carried on stanchion 52 is operably connected to operate seed meter 58 and agitator 60. Motor 62 can be operated under a manual input or an electrical charge provided from an electrochemical source, electrical outlet, or solar power.
  • a power source 66 comprising an
  • electrochemical cell powers electrical components aboard seeder 50.
  • Operation of motor 62 in the first operational direction rotates seed meter 58 and agitator 60 in a first rotational direction.
  • operation of motor 62 and a second operational direction opposite the first operational direction rotates seed meter 58 and agitator 60 in a second rotational direction.
  • seed meter 58 and agitator 60 can be configured to operate separately from each other.
  • operation of motor 62 in a first operational direction can be configured to operate agitator 60 without operating seed meter 58.
  • operation of motor 62 and a second operation of direction can be configured to operate both agitator 60 and seed meter 58.
  • Seed meter 58 is disposed within discharge 56 of seed hopper 54 so as to occlude discharge 56 and the passage of seed through discharge 56 accept by operation of seed meter 58.
  • Seed meter 58 includes one or more louvers 64 for capturing and dispersing seed from discharge 56 onto seed belt 28 during operation of seed meter 58. According to one aspect, rotation of the one or more louvers 64 captures and disperse seed from discharge 56 onto seed belt 28 during operation of seed meter 15.
  • a liquid basin 68 is also carried by seeder 50. Liquid basin 68 is plumbed in operable connection with seed hopper 54 and includes a pump (not shown) for pumping liquid from liquid basin 68 into seed hopper 54.
  • the pump (not shown) can be configured to operate under manual input or electrical charge provided from an electrochemical source (e.g., power source 66), electrical outlet, or solar power source. Louvers 64 of seed meter 58 can be configured to seal or generally seal discharge 56 against liquid passage.
  • the quick passage from seed hopper 54 through discharge 56 can be captured by liquid collector 70.
  • Liquid collector 70 is operably plumbed into connection with a liquid basin 68 whereby liquid pumped into seed hopper 54, passing out through discharge 56 is captured by a liquid collector 70 and recycled back to liquid basin 68 for use in recycling or filling seed hopper 54 with liquid.
  • a liquid within seed hopper 54 can be supplemented with one or more additives by introducing one or more additives into liquid basin 68.
  • Contemplated additives include, for example, those contemplated, but not limited to being specified expressly provided herein. In this manner, conservation of liquid is achieved. A seed and liquid mixture within seed hopper 54 is agitated by operation of agitator 60. Agitation of seed and liquid within seed hopper 54 can provide sanitation of seed within seed hopper 54. Liquid in seed hopper 54 alone, or together with one or more additives, can be used to kill mold, bacteria and other unwanted contaminants present with seed introduced into seed hopper 54. Thus, contemplated additives include those additives that can kill or otherwise remove contaminants, foreign substances or other undesirables from seed prior to discharge onto seed belt 28.
  • liquid introduced into seed hopper 54 and combined with seed in seed hopper 54 can facilitate an earlier hydroponic response in seed prior to discharge onto seed belt 28.
  • the growing process for seed can begin within seed hopper 54 and prior to discharge onto seed belt 28.
  • liquid basin 68 can be purged and/or flushed to reduce and possibly prevent introduction of unwanted constituents into seed hopper 54.
  • liquid basin 68 can be configured as a closed-loop system whereby a pump can be configured to pressurize liquid basin 68 to circulate liquid to seed hopper 54.
  • a submersible pump can also be configured within liquid basin 68 to circulate liquid to seed hopper 54.
  • stanchion 52 Also carried by stanchion 52 is a mechanical coupler 72 that operably secures stanchion 52 to seed growing table 16.
  • stanchion 52 being mobile, can be operatively positioned adjacent one of the opposing rollers 30 of seed belt 28 and operatively secured/locked to seed growing table 16.
  • stanchion 52 is operably secured to seed growing table 16 at the onloading end and at the level of a seed belt 28.
  • Mechanical coupler 72 secures together stanchion 52 with seed growing table 16.
  • drive mechanism 74 operably carried by stanchion 52 and under operable control of motor 62 is also mechanically/electrically coupled with drive mechanism 37 associated with a seed belt 28.
  • drive mechanism 74 operably coupled to drive mechanism 37 provides rotation to a seed belt 28.
  • the mechanical input and/or electrical input for driving rotation of a seed belt 28 can be provided by drive mechanism 74 on stanchion 52.
  • motor 62 on stanchion 52 can be configured to provide operable control over seed meter 58, agitator 60, drive mechanism 74, and any other devices capable of being driven are operated by motor 62.
  • motor 62 operates agitator 60 within seed hopper 54 and seed meter 58 within discharge 56 while simultaneously operating drive mechanism 74 which in turn drives drive mechanism 37 for rotating seed belt 28.
  • motor 60 has a first operational direction for operating agitator 60 within seed hopper 54.
  • Seed meter 58 when driven by motor 62 in the first operational direction does not discharge seed onto seed belt 28. Although seed does not discharge, some liquid from within seed hopper 54 can escape past seed meter 58 which is captured by the quick collector 70. Captured liquid passes through plumbing to liquid basin 68 where it is recycled back to seed hopper 54.
  • Coupler 72 can be a mechanical and/or electrical coupling.
  • Stanchion 52 is configured so that seed hopper 54 can be lowered and raised to the level of each seed belt 28 of the seed growing table 16. In this manner, discharge 56 of seed hopper 54 is positioned adjacent and at the elevation of the onloading end of a seed belt 28. Also, in this manner, drive mechanism 74 is positioned adjacent the respective drive mechanism 37 of the seed belt 28. Height of seed hopper 54 can be adjusted mechanically or electrically.
  • a motor such as motor 62
  • a motor can be operably configured to raise and lower seed hopper 54 along the height of stanchion 52.
  • mechanical means can be employed, such as a manually driven winch or hand crank, to raise and lower seed hopper 54 along the height of stanchion 52.
  • manual raising and lowering of seed hopper 54 is
  • FIGS 16-19 are pictorial representations of a cutter in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.
  • Cutter 76 includes a cutting hopper 80 comprised of a plurality of upstanding walls with lower edge walls terminating in a discharge 82, upper edge walls terminating in an intake 84, and a first cutting assembly 86 and second cutting assembly 88.
  • a mechanical coupler 96 that operably secures cutter 76 to seed growing table 16.
  • mechanical coupler 96 can be configured as one or more pair of hooks removably attachable to one or more rollers 30 for securing cutter 76 at the level and the end of a selected seed belt 28.
  • the one or more pair of hooks can be configured to removably secure one or more hooks at opposing ends of a roller 30 adjacent opposing vertical members 12.
  • hooks are disclosed as a form of a mechanical coupler 96, the present disclosure contemplates various coupler types for removably securing cutter 76 to seed growing table 16. These can include, for example, bolts, pins, clips, snaps, and other coupling devices for removably interconnecting cutter 76 with seed growing table 16. In this manner, cutter 76, being mobile up and down, can be operatively positioned adjacent one of the rollers 30 of seed belt 28 and operatively secured/locked to seed growing table 16.
  • Seed growing table 16 can be configured so that cutter 76 can be lowered and raised to the level of each seed belt 28 of the seed growing table 16. In this manner, intake 84 of cutter 76 is positioned adjacent and at the elevation of the end of a seed belt 28. Height of cutter 76 can be adjusted mechanically or electrically.
  • a motor such as motor 62
  • mechanical means can be employed, such as a manually driven winch or hand crank, to raise and lower cutter 76 along the height of vertical members 12 of seed growing table 16.
  • manual raising and lowering of cutter 76 is contemplated and within the scope of the design. Also contemplated is, wireless and/or push button control of cutter 76 and other
  • a motor 90 carried on cutter 76 is operably connected to operate first cutting assembly 86.
  • motor 90 can be operably configured to operate first cutting assembly 86 and second cutting assembly 88.
  • motor 92 carried on cutter 76 can be operably connected to operate second cutting assembly 88.
  • Motor 90 and/or motor 92 can be operated under a manual input or an electrical charge provided from an electrochemical source, electrical outlet, or solar power.
  • a power source 94 comprising an electrochemical cell powers electrical components, such as motor 90 and motor 92, aboard cutter 76.
  • motor 90 In the case where a single motor, motor 90, is employed to operate both the first cutting assembly 86 and second cutting assembly 88, motor 90 can be operably configured to operate one or both cutting assemblies in a first operational direction or to operate a single cutting assembly in a second operational direction opposite the first operational direction of motor 90.
  • cutter 76 Also carried by cutter 76 is a mechanical coupler 96 that operably secures stanchion 78 to seed growing table 16.
  • cutter 76 being mobile, can be operatively positioned adjacent one of the opposing rollers 30 of seed belt 28 and operatively secured/locked to seed growing table 16.
  • cutter 76 is operably secured to seed growing table 16 at the offloading end and at the level of a seed belt 28 with rollers 30.
  • Mechanical coupler 96 secures together cutter 76 with seed growing table 16.
  • drive mechanism 98 operably carried by cutter 76 and under operable control of motor 90/92 can also be mechanically/electrically coupled with drive mechanism 37 associated with a seed belt 28.
  • drive mechanism 98 operably coupled to drive mechanism 37 can provide rotation to a seed belt 28.
  • the mechanical input and/or electrical input for driving rotation of a seed belt 28 can be provided by drive mechanism 98 on cutter 76.
  • motor 90/92 on cutter 76 can be configured to provide operable control over both cutting assemblies, and any other devices capable of being driven are operated by motor 90/92.
  • motor 90/92 respectively operate first cutting assembly 86 and second cutting assembly 88 within cutting hopper 80 while
  • Cutter 76 can also be configured so that cutting hopper 80 can be lowered and raised to the level of each seed belt 28 of the seed growing table 16.
  • intake 84 of cutting hopper 80 is positioned adjacent and at the elevation of the offloading end of a seed belt 28.
  • drive mechanism 98 is positioned adjacent the respective drive mechanism 37 of the seed belt 28.
  • Height of cutting hopper 80 can be adjusted mechanically or electrically.
  • a motor such as motor 62, can be operably configured to raise and lower cutting hopper 80 along the height of stanchion 78.
  • mechanical means can be employed, such as a manually driven winch or hand crank, to raise and lower cutting hopper 80 along the height of seed growing table 16. Still, manual raising and lowering of cutting hopper 80 is contemplated and within the scope of the design.
  • cutting hopper 80 includes a first cutting assembly 86. Several laterally spaced blades 100 are disposed within first cutting assembly 86.
  • spacing between blades 100 can be adjusted according to a desired width or cut of hydroponically grown feed provided at discharge 82 of cutting hopper 80.
  • blades 100 can be spaced as a part across the width of intake 84 of cutting hopper 80.
  • Intake 84 has generally a width corresponding to the width or depth of seed belt 28.
  • Motor 90/92 can be operably configured to control operation of blades 100.
  • Blades 100 can be configured as rotational blades or reciprocating blades. The spacing between blades 100 can also be controlled by moving one or more blades out of the cutting path for hydroponically grown feed introduced into cutting a hopper 80 through intake 84.
  • the RPM of motor 90/92 can be operably controlled at a user input disposed on the seed growing table 16 or cutter 76.
  • wireless, push button control of motor 90/92 can be operably configured to operate first cutting assembly 86.
  • the RPM of motor 90/92 can provide operable control over the RPM of blades 100.
  • blades 100 are rotated in a direction opposite the direction of travel for the hydroponically grown feed. In this manner, lower RPMS can be used for cutting the hydroponically grown feed as it is introduced from off of seed belt 28 into intake 84 through first cutting assembly 86 of cutting hopper 80 exiting discharge 82 at a collection point.
  • the RPM of seed belt 28 can correspond with the RPM of blades 100 in the case where motor 90 or motor 92 is operably configured to drive both at the same time or the drive mechanism independently drives a seed belt 28.
  • drive mechanism 98 driven by motor 90/92 can mechanically/electrically drive drive mechanism 37 to rotate seed belt 28 and also rotate blades 100 of first cutting assembly 86. If a single motor 90/92 is used, gearing can be configured to control the relative RPM between the desired RPM of seed belt 28 and blades 100.
  • the RPM of the drive mechanism 37 can be correlated with the RPM of the cutter 76 and the one or more motors 90/92 driving the first cutting assembly 86 and/or second cutting assembly of the cutting mechanism 88.
  • One or more programmable logic controllers can be operably configured to control the RPM of a seed belt 28 and the RPM of motors 90/92.
  • Controls can be operably configured to provide an operator with a user interface for operating the programmable logic controllers and/or motors 90/92, drive mechanism 37 or other operating software/hardware of cutter 76 and table 16.
  • Second cutting assembly 88 includes at least one blade 102 operably configured at intake 84 of cutting hopper 80 to have a lateral direction of travel across the width of hydroponically grown feed discharged from seed belt 28 into intake 84 of cutting hopper 80.
  • Blade 102 can be configured as a rotational, reciprocating, or unidirectional traveling blade. In a preferred aspect, blade 102 travels along the cutting path following the outer periphery of intake 84 of cutting hopper 80 in a lateral direction between opposing vertical members 12 of seed growing table 16. Similarly, it can be said that blade 102 follows the lateral path in the direction of lateral member 22 spaced between vertical members 12 of growing table 16.
  • Blade 102 As blade 102 passes along this lateral pathway it slices in lateral cut in the hydroponically grown feed thereby creating a determinant length of feed exiting discharge 82 of cutting hopper 80.
  • Blade 102 can be operably configured of passing along the lateral cut path to cut both the top side and underside of the hydroponically grown feed. Passing in a first lateral direction blade 102 makes a first lateral cut atop the
  • hydroponically grown feed and returning in a second lateral direction, opposite the first lateral direction, on the underside of the hydroponically grown feed makes a second lateral cut on the underside of the hydroponically grown feed.
  • the first lateral cut and second lateral cut are generally in the same plane and therefore severs the hydroponically grown feed at a desired determinant length.
  • a single motor 90/92 can be configured to operably control rotation of seed belt 28, blades 100 and blade 102 simultaneously.
  • Gearing can be configured to rotate belt 28, blades 100 and blade 102 with the same motor at different RPMS.
  • the RPM of blade 102 can be controlled to rotate having a significantly lower RPM than blades 100 and belt 28.
  • blades 100 and blade 102 can be operably configured to have the same are generally same RPM, while only the RPM of the belt 28 is increased or decreased by gearing or under operable control of a separate motor 90/92. Controlling the length of cut can be accomplished by controlling the RPM of seed belt 28 in a manner discussed herein.
  • second cutting assembly 88 makes a cut every specified interval (e.g., 5, 10, 15, 20...60 seconds) controlling the RPM of seed belt 28 can provide cut lengths of hydroponically grown feed at specified-determinant intervals/lengths. Also contemplated is, wireless and/or push button control of cutter 76, motor 90/92, and other mechanically/electrically operated components.
  • FIGS. 20-23 are pictorial representations of another cutter in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.
  • Cutter 76 includes a stanchion 78 operably configured atop one or more casters for mobility.
  • stanchion 78 Disposed on stanchion 78 is a cutting hopper 80 comprised of a plurality of upstanding walls with lower edge walls terminating in a discharge 82, upper edge walls terminating in an intake 84, and a first cutting assembly 86 and second cutting assembly 88.
  • a motor 90 carried on stanchion 78 is operably connected to operate first cutting assembly 86.
  • motor 90 can be operably configured to operate first cutting assembly 86 and second cutting assembly 88.
  • motor 92 carried on stanchion 78 is operably connected to operate second cutting assembly 88.
  • Motor 90 and/or motor 92 can be operated under a manual input or an electrical charge provided from an electrochemical source, electrical outlet, or solar power.
  • a power source 94 comprising an electrochemical cell powers electrical components, such as motor 90 and motor 92, aboard cutter 76.
  • motor 90 In the case where a single motor, motor 90, is employed to operate both the first cutting assembly 86 and second cutting assembly 88, motor 90 can be operably configured to operate one or both cutting assemblies in a first operational direction or to operate a single cutting assembly in a second operational direction opposite the first operational direction of motor 90.
  • stanchion 78 Also carried by stanchion 78 is a mechanical coupler 96 that operably secures stanchion 78 to seed growing table 16.
  • stanchion 78 being mobile, can be operatively positioned adjacent one of the opposing rollers 30 of seed belt 28 and operatively secured/locked to seed growing table 16.
  • stanchion 78 is operably secured to seed growing table 16 at the offloading end and at the level of a seed belt 28.
  • Mechanical coupler 96 secures together stanchion 78 with seed growing table 16.
  • drive mechanism 98 operably carried by stanchion 78 and under operable control of motor 90/92 is also mechanically/electrically coupled with drive mechanism 37 associated with a seed belt 28.
  • drive mechanism 98 operably coupled to drive mechanism 37 provides rotation to a seed belt 28.
  • the mechanical input and/or electrical input for driving rotation of a seed belt 28 is provided by drive mechanism 98 on stanchion 78.
  • motor 90/92 on stanchion 78 can be configured to provide operable control over both cutting assemblies, and any other devices capable of being driven are operated by motor 90/92.
  • motor 90/92 respectively operate first cutting assembly 86 and second cutting assembly 88 within cutting hopper 80 while simultaneously operating drive mechanism 98 which in turn drives/powers drive mechanism 37 for rotating seed belt 28.
  • Stanchion 78 is also configured so that cutting hopper 80 can be lowered and raised to the level of each seed belt 28 of the seed growing table 16.
  • intake 84 of cutting hopper 80 is positioned adjacent and at the elevation of the offloading end of a seed belt 28.
  • drive mechanism 98 is positioned adjacent the respective drive mechanism 37 of the seed belt 28.
  • Height of cutting hopper 80 can be adjusted mechanically or electrically.
  • a motor such as motor 90/92
  • mechanical means can be employed, such as a manually driven winch or hand crank, to raise and lower cutting hopper 80 along the height of stanchion 78.
  • manual raising and lowering of cutting hopper 80 is contemplated and within the scope of the design.
  • cutting hopper 80 includes a first cutting assembly 86. Several laterally spaced blades 100 are disposed within first cutting assembly 86.
  • spacing between blades 100 can be adjusted according to a desired width or cut of hydroponically grown feed provided at discharge 82 of cutting hopper 80.
  • blades 100 can be spaced as a part across the width of intake 84 of cutting hopper 80.
  • Intake 84 has generally a width corresponding to the width or depth of seed belt 28.
  • Motor 90/92 can be operably configured to control operation of blades 100.
  • Blades 100 can be configured as rotational blades or reciprocating blades.
  • the spacing between blades 100 can also be controlled by moving one or more blades out of the cutting path for hydroponically grown feed introduced into cutting a hopper 80 through intake 84.
  • the RPM of motor 90/92 can be operably controlled at a user input disposed on stanchion 78.
  • wireless, push button control of motor 90/92 can be operably configured to operate first cutting assembly 86.
  • the RPM of motor 90/92 can provide operable control over the RPM of blades 100.
  • blades 100 are rotated in a direction opposite the direction of travel for the hydroponically grown feed.
  • lower RPMS can be used for cutting the hydroponically grown feed as it is introduced from off of seed belt 28 into intake 84 through first cutting assembly 86 of cutting hopper 80 exiting discharge 82 at a collection point.
  • the RPM of seed belt 28 can correspond with the RPM of blades 100 in the case where motor 90 or motor 92 is operably configured to drive both at the same time.
  • drive mechanism 98 driven by motor 90/92 can mechanically/electrically drive drive mechanism 37 to rotate seed belt 28 and also rotate blades 100 of first cutting assembly 86. If a single motor 90/92 is used, gearing can be configured to control the relative RPM between the desired RPM of seed belt 28 and blades 100.
  • Second cutting assembly 88 includes at least one blade 102 operably configured at intake 84 of cutting hopper 80 to have a lateral direction of travel across the width of hydroponically grown feed discharged from seed belt 28 into intake 84 of cutting hopper 80.
  • Blade 102 can be configured as a rotational, reciprocating, or unidirectional traveling blade. In a preferred aspect, blade 102 travels along the cutting path following the outer periphery of intake 84 of cutting hopper 80 in a lateral direction between opposing vertical members 12 of seed growing table 16. Similarly, it can be said that blade 102 follows the lateral path in the direction of lateral member 22 spaced between vertical members 12 of growing table 16.
  • Blade 102 As blade 102 passes along this lateral pathway it slices in lateral cut in the hydroponically grown feed thereby creating a determinant length of feed exiting discharge 82 of cutting hopper 80.
  • Blade 102 can be operably configured of passing along the lateral cut path to cut both the top side and underside of the hydroponically grown feed. Passing in a first lateral direction blade 102 makes a first lateral cut atop the
  • hydroponically grown feed and returning in a second lateral direction, opposite the first lateral direction, on the underside of the hydroponically grown feed makes a second lateral cut on the underside of the hydroponically grown feed.
  • the first lateral cut and second lateral cut are generally in the same plane and therefore severs the hydroponically grown feed at a desired determinant length.
  • a single motor 90/92 can be configured to operably control rotation of seed belt 28, blades 100 and blade 102 simultaneously.
  • Gearing can be configured to rotate belt 28, blades 100 and blade 102 with the same motor at different RPMS.
  • the RPM of blade 102 can be controlled to rotate having a significantly lower RPM than blades 100 and belt 28.
  • blades 100 and blade 102 can be operably configured to have the same are generally same RPM, while only the RPM of the belt 28 is increased or decreased by gearing or under operable control of a separate motor 90/92. Controlling the length of cut can be accomplished by controlling the RPM of seed belt 28.
  • second cutting assembly 88 makes a cut every specified interval (e.g., 5, 10, 15, 20...60 seconds) controlling the RPM of seed belt 28 will provide cut lengths of hydroponically grown feed at specified-determinant intervals/lengths.
  • specified interval e.g., 5, 10, 15, 20...60 seconds
  • wireless and/or push button control of cutter 76, motor 90/92, and other mechanically/electrically operated components are also contemplated.
  • the present disclosure is not to be limited to the particular embodiments described herein.
  • the present disclosure contemplates numerous variations in the type of ways in which embodiments of the disclosure can be applied to a hydroponic growing apparatus, system, method, and/or kit that addresses the deficiencies in existing hydroponic and non-hydroponic processes for growing feed.
  • the foregoing description has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list or limit any of the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. It is contemplated that other alternatives or exemplary aspects are considered included in the disclosure.
  • the description is merely examples of embodiments, processes or methods of the disclosure. It is understood that any other modifications, substitutions, and/or additions can be made, which are within the intended spirit and scope of the disclosure. For the foregoing, it can be seen that the disclosure accomplishes at least all of the intended objectives.

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Abstract

La présente invention concerne un appareil, un système, un procédé et/ou un nécessaire de culture hydroponique. Un dispositif de culture de semences hydroponique comprend une table de croissance de semences verticale avec un ou plusieurs lits d'ensemencement disposés horizontalement. Une courroie à semences est portée par des rouleaux opposés sur la table de croissance de semences. La courroie à semences peut être dotée d'une partie de tapis dont les extrémités sont ancrées l'une à l'autre par une partie de liaison portée par l'un des rouleaux opposés lui-même relié à un mécanisme d'entraînement. Un applicateur de liquide et une gouttière d'évacuation peuvent être espacés de manière adjacente à au moins un bord longitudinal de la courroie à semences pour irriguer la courroie à semences et capturer les eaux de ruissellement. Le cultivateur peut inclure un semoir avec un doseur de semences, une évacuation, un dispositif de coupe doté d'un ou plusieurs éléments de coupe et une admission.
PCT/US2015/045211 2015-08-14 2015-08-14 Dispositif de culture hydroponique WO2017030524A1 (fr)

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Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/US2015/045211 WO2017030524A1 (fr) 2015-08-14 2015-08-14 Dispositif de culture hydroponique

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Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/US2015/045211 WO2017030524A1 (fr) 2015-08-14 2015-08-14 Dispositif de culture hydroponique

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US20170055461A1 (en) * 2015-05-28 2017-03-02 Robert V. Neuhoff, JR. Automated hydroponics system and method
CN108713493A (zh) * 2018-07-30 2018-10-30 安徽农业大学 用于分析增温对小麦根系分布状态影响的水培盆栽桶
WO2020172137A1 (fr) 2019-02-19 2020-08-27 Cubicfeed Systems U.S. Corp. Dispositif de culture hydroponique
WO2020172149A1 (fr) * 2019-02-19 2020-08-27 Cubicfeed Systems U.S. Corp. Dispositif de commande pour un dispositif de culture hydroponique
US11229170B2 (en) 2020-04-20 2022-01-25 Ivan Z. Martin Hydroponic growth and cutting method and device
US11304525B2 (en) 2019-02-26 2022-04-19 Grow Glide Inc. Customizable slidable shelving and support system for horticulture applications
EP3826452A4 (fr) * 2018-12-20 2022-04-27 Amirlatifi, Ali Système de culture de plantes et appareils associés

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US20170055461A1 (en) * 2015-05-28 2017-03-02 Robert V. Neuhoff, JR. Automated hydroponics system and method
US10485193B2 (en) * 2015-05-28 2019-11-26 Robert V. Neuhoff, JR. Automated hydroponics system and method
CN108713493A (zh) * 2018-07-30 2018-10-30 安徽农业大学 用于分析增温对小麦根系分布状态影响的水培盆栽桶
EP3826452A4 (fr) * 2018-12-20 2022-04-27 Amirlatifi, Ali Système de culture de plantes et appareils associés
US20220110276A1 (en) * 2019-02-19 2022-04-14 Hydrogreen, Inc. Controller for a hydroponic grower
WO2020172137A1 (fr) 2019-02-19 2020-08-27 Cubicfeed Systems U.S. Corp. Dispositif de culture hydroponique
CN113490411A (zh) * 2019-02-19 2021-10-08 绿水力公司 水培种植机的控制器
AU2020225282B2 (en) * 2019-02-19 2021-12-02 Hydrogreen, Inc. Hydroponic grower
US12016276B2 (en) 2019-02-19 2024-06-25 Hydrogreen, Inc. Hydroponic grower
JP2022520861A (ja) * 2019-02-19 2022-04-01 ハイドログリーン，インコーポレーテッド 水耕栽培機用のコントローラ
WO2020172149A1 (fr) * 2019-02-19 2020-08-27 Cubicfeed Systems U.S. Corp. Dispositif de commande pour un dispositif de culture hydroponique
JP7467545B2 (ja) 2019-02-19 2024-04-15 ハイドログリーン，インコーポレーテッド 水耕栽培機
US20220117178A1 (en) * 2019-02-19 2022-04-21 Hydrogreen, Inc. Hydroponic grower
CN113490410A (zh) * 2019-02-19 2021-10-08 绿水力公司 水培种植机
JP2022169679A (ja) * 2019-02-19 2022-11-09 ハイドログリーン，インコーポレーテッド 水耕栽培機
US20220408668A1 (en) * 2019-02-19 2022-12-29 Hydrogreen, Inc. Hydroponic grower
US20220408669A1 (en) * 2019-02-19 2022-12-29 Hydrogreen, Inc. Hydroponic grower
US11606919B2 (en) 2019-02-19 2023-03-21 Hydrogreen, Inc. Hydroponic grower
US11950546B2 (en) 2019-02-19 2024-04-09 Hydrogreen, Inc. Hydroponic grower
US11607041B2 (en) 2019-02-26 2023-03-21 Grow Glide Inc. Customizable slidable shelving and support system for horticulture applications
US11304525B2 (en) 2019-02-26 2022-04-19 Grow Glide Inc. Customizable slidable shelving and support system for horticulture applications
US11229170B2 (en) 2020-04-20 2022-01-25 Ivan Z. Martin Hydroponic growth and cutting method and device

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