WO2017168667A1

WO2017168667A1 - Illumination device for plant cultivation, plant cultivation device, plant cultivation method

Info

Publication number: WO2017168667A1
Application number: PCT/JP2016/060604
Authority: WO
Inventors: 達雄村岡
Original assignee: 富士通株式会社
Priority date: 2016-03-31
Filing date: 2016-03-31
Publication date: 2017-10-05
Also published as: TW201735777A; TWI627897B; JPWO2017168667A1

Abstract

An illumination device for plant cultivation, having: a plurality of LEDs which are arranged more densely in at least one of the two end sections of an LED layout range extending in a first direction than in the center part; and a diffusion part for causing light emitted towards a plant from the plurality of LEDs to diffuse.

Description

Lighting device for plant cultivation, plant cultivation device, plant cultivation method

The present disclosure relates to a lighting device for plant cultivation, a plant cultivation device, and a plant cultivation method.

2. Description of the Related Art There are known plant lighting devices that have a straight tube fluorescent lamp or a lighting unit in which LEDs (light-emitting diodes) are arranged in a straight line.

JP-A-2015-136357 JP 2014-166179 A

However, it is difficult for a conventional lighting device for plant cultivation to give light to a plurality of plants with a uniform light amount distribution. For example, in a conventional lighting device for plant cultivation, it is difficult to give light to a plant at the end of a plurality of plants arranged in a straight line with a light amount similar to that of a plant in the central part.

Therefore, in one aspect, an object of the present invention is to equalize the amount of light given to a plurality of plants.

According to one aspect, a plurality of LEDs arranged densely compared to the central portion in at least one of both ends of the LED arrangement range extending in the first direction;
There is provided a lighting device for plant cultivation having a diffusion unit that diffuses light emitted from the plurality of LEDs toward the plant.

∙ The amount of light given to multiple plants can be made uniform.

It is a perspective view showing an example of a plant cultivation device roughly. It is a front view which shows an example of a plant cultivation apparatus roughly. It is a perspective view which shows roughly the relationship between a conveyance instrument and a cultivation tray. It is a top view of the cultivation tray by an example. It is a top view of the cultivation tray by another example. It is a perspective view which shows an example of an raising / lowering mechanism roughly. It is a side view which shows roughly the relationship between a lighting fixture and a cultivation tray when it sees to a Y direction. FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view along line AA in FIG. 6. It is a figure which shows LED arrangement | positioning of the lighting fixture by Example 1. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the change aspect of the pitch between LED. It is a figure which shows another example of the change aspect of the pitch between LED. It is explanatory drawing of an example of the structure of a board | substrate. It is a figure which shows the ideal light quantity distribution characteristic on the cultivation tray by a lighting fixture. It is a figure which shows LED arrangement | positioning of the lighting fixture by a 1st comparative example. It is explanatory drawing of the overlap of the illumination light of several LED by a 1st comparative example. It is explanatory drawing of the overlap of the illumination light of several LED by Example 1. FIG. It is explanatory drawing of the light quantity distribution characteristic by Example 1. FIG. It is a figure which shows the light quantity distribution characteristic of the lighting fixture when a cover is not attached. It is explanatory drawing of an example of the plant cultivation method. It is a schematic flowchart of a plant cultivation method. It is a figure which shows the internal structure (LED arrangement | positioning) of the lighting fixture by Example 2 by see-through | perspective. It is a figure which shows in perspective the other example of the internal structure (LED arrangement | positioning) of the lighting fixture by Example 2. FIG. It is a figure which shows the internal structure (LED arrangement | positioning) of the lighting fixture 5B by Example 3 by see-through | perspective. FIG. 22 is a sectional view taken along line CC in FIG. 21.

Hereinafter, each example will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[Example 1]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing an example of a plant cultivation apparatus 1. FIG. 2 is a front view schematically showing an example of the plant cultivation apparatus 1. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the relationship between the transport device 6 and the cultivation tray 4. FIG. 4A is a top view of the cultivation tray 4 according to an example. FIG. 4B is a top view of a cultivation tray 4A according to another example. In the following, three axes orthogonal to the X, Y, and Z axes shown in FIG. The Z direction corresponds to the height direction (vertical direction) of the plant cultivation apparatus. In the following description, the X direction is the left-right direction for the sake of explanation. In addition, in FIG. 1 (FIG. 5 etc. are the same), although the lighting fixture 5 is simply shown by the rectangular cross-sectional shape, cross-sectional shape is arbitrary (for example, refer FIG. 7).

The plant cultivation apparatus 1 is arranged in a plant cultivation room, for example, a clean room 51. The plant cultivation apparatus 1 includes a cultivation rack 2, a cultivation unit 3, a transport device 6, and an elevating mechanism 16.

The cultivation units 3 are attached in multiple stages in the height direction within the cultivation rack 2 and are further arranged in parallel at two stages. In addition, the number of steps in the height direction and the number of arrangement of the cultivation units 3 in each step are arbitrary. A plurality of cultivation racks 2 may be installed with a passage in the Y direction or the X direction.

The plant cultivation apparatus 1 is used for hydroponics, for example. As the plant to be cultivated, for example, leafy vegetables are suitable, but plants other than leafy vegetables may be the subject of cultivation. Examples of leafy vegetables include lettuce, spinach, komatsuna, sanchu, and mizuna. Examples of plants other than leafy vegetables include strawberries and tomatoes.

The cultivation rack 2 has a skeleton structure and includes a plurality of support pillars 2a at intervals along the X direction and the Y direction. The support column 2a extends in the Z direction and is supported on the floor surface E. A plurality of pillars 2a adjacent in the Y direction are connected to each other through a first beam 2b at a plurality of locations. The first beam 2b and the support column 2a are fixed by, for example, screws, rivets or the like.

As shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of second beams 2c are passed in the X direction at intervals in the height direction to the two columns 2a adjacent to each other along the X direction. The support 2a and the second beam 2c are fixed by, for example, screws, rivets or the like. As will be described later, the cultivation tray 4 and the lighting fixture 5 are supported by the plurality of second beams 2c.

The cultivation unit 3 includes a cultivation tray 4 (an example of a tray) and a lighting device 5 (an example of a lighting device for plant cultivation) arranged above the cultivation tray 4. Below, unless specifically mentioned, the configuration of one cultivation unit 3 will be described as a representative, but the same may be applied to the other.

The cultivation tray 4 is placed on the transport device 6. As shown in FIG. 3, the cultivation tray 4 is supported by the second beam 2 c via the conveying device 6. The cultivation tray 4 is carried into the cultivation rack 2 using the transport device 6 or carried out of the cultivation rack 2 as necessary.

The cultivation tray 4 is long in the X direction, and has a cultivation container 4a and a lid 4b as shown in FIG.

The cultivation container 4a is in the form of a ridge having an opening at the top (form in which the cross section on the YZ plane is concave and both sides in the X direction are closed), and forms the main body of the cultivation tray 4. In the cultivation container 4a, liquid fertilizer is stored or liquid fertilizer is poured.

The lid 4b has a rectangular flat plate shape and covers the upper opening of the cultivation container 4a. 3 and 4A, hose insertion holes 4c into which the liquid manure hose 8 is inserted from above are formed in the lid 4b on both sides in the X direction. In the lid body 4b, a plurality of pot insertion holes 4d are formed in a straight line at intervals in the X direction in a region between the hose insertion holes 4c on both sides in the X direction. In FIG. 4A, the number of pot insertion holes 4d is eight, but is not limited thereto, and may be ten, for example. Moreover, like the cultivation tray 4A shown in FIG. 4B, the pot insertion holes 4d may be formed in two or more rows while being offset in the Y direction (so as to be zigzag).

In each of the plurality of pot insertion holes 4d, a cup-shaped cultivation pot 9 in which the plant S planted is planted is fitted. In addition, since the upper edge of the cultivation pot 9 is caught by the edge of the pot insertion hole 4d, when the lid 4b is lifted, the cultivation pot 9 is also lifted. In addition, according to the kind of plant S, the board | plate material (not shown) for preventing drooping of the leaf of the grown plant S is provided between the cover bodies 4b of the two cultivation units 3 adjacent in a Y direction. May be.

As shown in FIG. 3, the cultivation pot 9 has a bottomed cylindrical shape having an opening at the upper end, and has a tapered outer peripheral surface whose upper end is wider than the lower end. The cultivation pot 9 has a structure in which a sponge S (not shown) serving as a medium in which a plant S grown in a predetermined period, for example, a lettuce seedling is planted, is inserted. For example, a cubic urethane sponge may be used as the sponge. In addition, a plurality of vertically long slits 9 a having a width that allows plant roots to protrude may be formed around the lower portion of the cultivation pot 9 in the circumferential direction. A plurality of holes (not shown) for dropping water or the like may be formed at the bottom of the cultivation pot 9.

By the way, in order to increase the yield of plants efficiently, it is desirable to increase the number of plants cultivated in one cultivation tray 4. However, for the growth of plants, an appropriate width is required between adjacent cultivation pots 9 so that the leaves do not overlap when adjacent plants grow, for example. For example, in the case of leafy vegetables such as lettuce and Japanese mustard, a width of about 15 cm is required between adjacent cultivation pots 9. Therefore, the space | interval L (refer FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B) between the some pot insertion holes 4d may be suitably set according to the kind of plant made into cultivation object. For example, a plurality of types of lids 4b having different intervals L between the plurality of pot insertion holes 4d may be prepared so as to correspond to various types of plants.

In addition, the one end side of the X direction of the cultivation container 4a of the cultivation tray 4 becomes the liquid manure introduction area | region 4e so that it may surround with the wavy line of the notch cross section of FIG. Liquid manure is supplied to the liquid manure introduction area 4e through a liquid manure hose 8 inserted into the hose insertion hole 4c on one end side of the lid 4b. Further, as shown in the partially cutaway cross section of FIG. 2, a liquid fertilizer discharge hole 4f is formed at the bottom of the other end side in the X direction of the cultivation container 4a. A liquid amount adjuster 10 that adjusts the liquid amount so that the liquid fertilizer in the cultivation container 4a of the cultivation tray 4 does not exceed the set height is attached to the liquid fertilizer discharge hole 4f and its periphery.

The lighting fixture 5 gives light to the plants in the cultivation tray 4. Plants in the cultivation tray 4 grow by receiving light from the lighting fixture 5. The lighting fixture 5 extends in the X direction corresponding to the shape of the cultivation tray 4 that is long in the X direction. For example, the length of the lighting fixture 5 in the X direction is 1000 mm or more, for example, about 1250 mm. In the lighting fixture 5, a plurality of LEDs 50 (see FIG. 8) that emit light downward (in the direction of the plant) are arranged in the X direction. The lighting fixture 5 has a long shape along the cultivation tray 4 as shown in FIG. A wiring cord 15 for supplying power is connected to one end of the lighting fixture 5. The lighting fixture 5 is supported by the 2nd beam 2c via the raising / lowering mechanism 16 mentioned later. Further detailed description of the luminaire 5 will be given later.

The conveyance device 6 has the cultivation tray 4 placed thereon, and facilitates conveyance of the cultivation tray 4. As shown in FIG. 3, the transport device 6 is placed on a rail 7 that is passed over the second beams 2 c of the plurality of cultivation racks 2 adjacent in the Y direction. The transfer device 6 can slide on the rail 7 and move in the Y direction. For example, two rails 7 may have a quadrangular cross section and may be attached in parallel on the second beam 2c with a space in the Y direction.

The elevating mechanism 16 enables the lighting fixture 5 to move up and down. Here, with reference to FIG.2 and FIG.5, an example of the raising / lowering mechanism 16 is demonstrated. FIG. 5 is a perspective view schematically showing an example of the elevating mechanism 16.

In Example 1, as an example, as shown in FIG. 5, the elevating mechanism 16 is provided in a manner shared by two lighting fixtures 5 adjacent in the Y direction.

The elevating mechanism 16 has a plurality of foldable arms 16a which are pivotally supported at the upper end by a second beam 2c having a T-shaped cross section and which can expand and contract in the Z direction. The intermediate folded portions of the plurality of arms 16a are connected to each other via a beam 16b so as to be rotatable. A plate 16c having an inverted T-shaped cross section is pivotally supported at the lower end of each of the plurality of arms 16a.

A support 16d that simultaneously supports two lighting fixtures 5 adjacent in the Y direction is attached to the lower end of the plate 16c at a plurality of locations. For example, a concave portion is formed in the center of the support 16d, and the plate 16c is fixed in the concave portion with screws, rivets, or the like. The plate 16c is located between two lighting fixtures 5 adjacent in the Y direction. Wires 17 are attached to both sides of the plate 16c in the X direction. As shown in FIG. 2, the wire 17 extends upward from the plate 16c and is connected to both ends of the coil spring 19 through a pulley 18 rotatably attached to the second beam 2c. The coil spring 19 urges the plate 16 c and the luminaire 5 upward via the wire 17.

The elevating mechanism 16 is driven manually, for example. When the elevating mechanism 16 is folded, the two lighting fixtures 5 adjacent in the Y direction rise simultaneously. On the other hand, when the elevating mechanism 16 is deployed, the two lighting fixtures 5 adjacent in the Y direction are simultaneously lowered. As described above, the elevating mechanism 16 is biased in the direction in which the elevating mechanism 16 is folded (the direction in which the arm 16a contracts in the Z direction) via the coil spring 19 and the wire 17. On the other hand, the elevating mechanism 16 is locked by a clip (not shown) so as not to be deformed in the direction in which the elevating mechanism 16 is folded. The user can change the state of the elevating mechanism 16 by changing the position of the clip, and can change the height of the two lighting fixtures 5 adjacent in the Y direction within a predetermined range.

2 and 5, the two lighting fixtures 5 adjacent in the Y direction can be moved up and down simultaneously by the lifting mechanism 16. As a result, the height of the lighting fixture 5 can be changed according to the growth of the plant, and the two lighting fixtures 5 adjacent to each other in the Y direction can be raised at the same time, thereby making it easy to perform operations such as attaching and detaching the cultivation tray 4. . In the modification, the elevating mechanism 16 may be provided for each lighting fixture 5. In this case, each of the lighting fixtures 5 can be moved up and down individually by the corresponding lifting mechanism 16.

In addition, the structure of the plant cultivation apparatus 1 shown to FIG. 1 thru | or FIG. 5 is an example to the last, and various changes are possible. For example, the transport device 6 may be omitted. In this case, the cultivation tray 4 may be directly supported by the second beam 2c. Moreover, the raising / lowering mechanism 16 may be implement | achieved by another mechanism. For example, the lifting mechanism 16 may be of a type that can be driven by an actuator (for example, an electric motor). Moreover, the raising / lowering mechanism 16 may be provided in the aspect shared with three or more lighting fixtures 5 adjacent in the Y direction, or shared with two or more lighting fixtures 5 adjacent in the X direction. May be provided.

Next, with reference to FIG. 6, the relationship between the lighting fixture 5 and the cultivation tray 4 by Example 1 is demonstrated.

FIG. 6 is a side view schematically showing the relationship between the lighting fixture 5 and the cultivation tray 4 when viewed in the Y direction. Here, as a representative, the relationship between one set of lighting fixtures 5 and the cultivation tray 4 will be described, but the same applies to other sets.

FIG. 6 shows a plant placement range R1 on the cultivation tray 4 and an LED placement range R2 of the lighting fixture 5. FIG. 6 also shows a center line CL indicating the reference position in the X direction. Hereinafter, the side away from the center line CL in the X direction (the far side) is referred to as “outside”. Here, as shown in FIG. 4A (and FIG. 4B), the plant placement range R1 is a range in the X direction, and each of the outermost pot insertion holes 4d in the X direction of the cultivation tray 4 is shown. It is assumed that the range is between the center positions. Similarly, the LED arrangement range R2 is a range between the center positions of the outermost LEDs 50 in the X direction (see FIG. 8).

Luminaire 5 and cultivation tray 4 both extend in the X direction and face in the Z direction as described above. Both the lighting fixture 5 and the cultivation tray 4 are arranged substantially parallel to the X direction. Moreover, both the lighting fixture 5 and the cultivation tray 4 are arrange | positioned so that the center of a X direction may be located on the centerline CL. In other words, the plant placement range R1 and the LED placement range R2 have substantially the same center in the X direction. Note that “substantially coincide” means that a certain amount of deviation is allowed. Actually, it is difficult to accurately match the centers of the plant placement range R1 and the LED placement range R2 due to deviations in placement, manufacturing tolerances, and the like, and the significance of accurately matching is not so much. Absent.

The LED arrangement range R2 preferably extends to the outside of the plant placement range R1, as shown in FIG. In the example illustrated in FIG. 6, the LED arrangement range R2 extends outward by a predetermined distance Δx0 from the plant placement range R1 on both sides in the X direction. The predetermined distance Δx0 is preferably in the range of 20 to 30 mm. In this case, the necessary amount of light from the luminaire 5 is easily secured in both ends of the plant placement range R1 in the X direction and in a range outside thereof.

The lighting fixture 5 is separated from the cultivation tray 4 by a distance H3 in the Z direction. That is, the luminaire 5 is arranged above the upper surface (plant placement surface) on the cultivation tray 4 by a distance H3. The distance H3 represents the height of the lighting fixture 5 with respect to the cultivation tray 4. Therefore, hereinafter, “adjusting the height of the lighting fixture 5” is synonymous with “adjusting the distance H3” by the elevating mechanism 16. An example of the adjustment method of the distance H3 will be described later in association with the plant cultivation method. In Example 1, as an example, the distance H3 is adjusted by moving the lighting fixture 5 up and down, but in a modified example, the distance H3 may be adjusted by moving the cultivation tray 4 up and down. .

Next, the structure of the lighting fixture 5 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. Here, as a representative, one lighting fixture 5 in the plant cultivation device 1 will be described, but the other lighting fixtures 5 in the plant cultivation device 1 may be the same.

FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view along line AA in FIG. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the arrow B in FIG. 6, and shows the internal structure (LED arrangement) of the lighting fixture 5 in perspective. In FIG. 8, illustration of wiring on the substrate 56 is omitted. 9A and 9B are diagrams illustrating two examples of changes in the pitch d1. 9A and 9B, the horizontal axis represents the position in the X direction, the vertical axis represents the pitch d1, and the change mode of the pitch d1 is shown. 9A and 9B, the position x0 corresponding to the center line CL and the outermost positions x3 and x4 of the LED arrangement range R2 are shown on the horizontal axis.

The lighting fixture 5 includes a plurality of LEDs 50, a cover 54 (an example of a diffusing unit), a substrate 56, and a heat radiating unit 58, as shown in FIGS.

The plurality of LEDs 50 are arranged in a row in the X direction as shown in FIG. The number of the plurality of LEDs 50 is determined, for example, by the relationship between the pitch d1 described later and the length of the lighting fixture 5 in the X direction. The number (22) shown in FIG. 8 is an example, and in reality, a larger number of LEDs 50 can be arranged.

In Example 1, as an example, the plurality of LEDs 50 have the same external shape and characteristics. The color of light from the plurality of LEDs 50 is arbitrary, but in Example 1, it is white as an example.

As shown in FIG. 8, the plurality of LEDs 50 are arranged more densely at both ends in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5 than in the center of the lighting fixture 5 in the X direction. That is, the pitch d1 between the LEDs 50 in the X direction is not constant, and the pitch d1 at both ends is smaller than the pitch d1 at the center. Both ends in the X direction of the luminaire 5 are portions including the outermost LEDs 50 in the X direction, and are portions within a predetermined range Δx1 on both sides of the LED arrangement range R2. The predetermined range Δx1 is a range including two or more LEDs 50. The central portion in the X direction of the luminaire 5 is a portion that does not include both ends of the luminaire 5 in the X direction and includes the center line CL.

For example, as shown in FIG. 9A, the pitch d1 is a value α within a predetermined range Δx1 on both sides of the LED arrangement range R2, and is a value β (> α) within another range (including the central portion). Also good. The value α may correspond to a minimum pitch that can be arranged, for example, and the value β may be 10 mm or less, for example. As another example, as shown in FIG. 9B, the pitch d1 is a value α at the outermost side of the LED arrangement range R2, a value β at the center of the LED arrangement range R2, and a value as it goes from the center to the outside. You may gradually change from β to the value α. As another example, although not shown in the figure, the pitch d1 is a value α on the outermost side of the LED arrangement range R2, and in a predetermined range Δx1 on both sides of the LED arrangement range R2, toward the value β toward the center. May increase gradually.

The cover 54 is formed of a resin material or glass. The cover 54 has a function of covering and protecting the plurality of LEDs 50. Further, the cover 54 has a function of diffusing light emitted downward (in the direction of the plant) from the plurality of LEDs 50. The cover 54 is preferably formed so that the light transmittance is high and light can be diffused efficiently. For example, the cover 54 has a total light transmittance of 60% or more, and preferably a total light transmittance of 70% or more. Further, the cover 54 has a light diffusion coefficient of 0.2 or more, preferably 0.3 or more, and more preferably 0.5 or more. The cover 54 may be made of glass (rubbing glass) with fine irregularities formed on the surface, a plastic material (semi-transparent plastic material) or an acrylic material with fine irregularities on the surface. Alternatively, the cover 54 may be formed by applying a diffusion sheet or a diffusion film to transparent glass, transparent plastic, or the like. The diffusion sheet may be, for example, a sheet having fine irregularities formed on the surface, a milky white sheet, or the like.

A plurality of LEDs 50 are mounted on the lower surface of the substrate 56 in the Z direction. In the first embodiment, as an example, the optical axes of the plurality of LEDs 50 are in the Z direction perpendicular to the surface of the substrate 56. Terminals for connection to the wiring cord 15 and wiring for supplying electricity to the plurality of LEDs 50 are formed on the substrate 56 (see FIG. 10). In the example illustrated in FIG. 10, the substrate 56 is divided into two in the X direction corresponding to the lighting fixture 5 that is long in the X direction. Specifically, the substrate 56 includes a substrate element 56L on the left side in the X direction and a substrate element 56R on the right side in the X direction. The substrate element 56L and the substrate element 56R are connected in the X direction. A positive electrode terminal 520 and a negative electrode terminal 521 that are electrically connected to the wiring cord 15 (see FIG. 6) are formed on the substrate element 56L. A positive electrode terminal 522 and a negative electrode terminal 523 are formed at the right end of the substrate element 56L and the left end of the substrate element 56R, respectively. The positive electrode terminals 522 of the substrate element 56L and the substrate element 56R are electrically connected via a wiring 528, and the negative electrode terminals 523 of the substrate element 56L and the substrate element 56R are electrically connected via a wiring 529. . The substrate element 56L and the substrate element 56R are formed with a positive electrode side wiring 524 and a negative electrode side wiring 526 extending in the X direction with the LED 50 interposed therebetween in the Y direction. Between the positive electrode side wiring 524 and the negative electrode side wiring 526, the wiring 527 electrically connected to the plurality of LEDs 50 is electrically connected. In this way, the plurality of LEDs 50 on the substrate 56 are electrically connected to the wiring cord 15 via the wiring 524 and the like. According to the substrate 56 as shown in FIG. 10, the pitch between the adjacent wirings 527 in the Y direction may be set according to the pitch d1 between the LEDs 50 in the X direction, so that the wiring structure is simple.

The heat radiation part 58 is formed of, for example, an aluminum plate. The heat dissipation part 58 is provided on the back side of the substrate 56 (the side opposite to the side on which the plurality of LEDs 50 are mounted). The heat radiating section 58 takes heat from the plurality of LEDs 50 and releases it to the outside of the lighting fixture 5.

Next, with reference to FIG. 11 thru | or FIG. 15, the light quantity distribution characteristic on the cultivation tray 4 by the lighting fixture 5 is demonstrated. Similarly, here, as a representative, the relationship between one set of lighting fixtures 5 and the cultivation tray 4 will be described, but the same may be applied to other sets. As an example, the light quantity distribution characteristics on the cultivation tray 4 by the lighting fixture 5 are evaluated at a position away from the lighting fixture 5 by a predetermined distance H1 (see FIG. 6). An axis L1 (see FIG. 6) parallel to the X direction passing through a position away from the lighting fixture 5 by a predetermined distance H1 is referred to as a “reference axis L1”.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an ideal light amount distribution characteristic on the cultivation tray 4 by the lighting fixture 5. In FIG. 11, the horizontal axis indicates the position on the axis L1, and the vertical axis indicates the amount of light, and an ideal light amount distribution characteristic 70 is shown. Note that equivalently, the intensity distribution characteristic of the illumination light may be evaluated instead of the light quantity distribution characteristic.

In FIG. 11, on the horizontal axis, a position p0 corresponding to the center line CL, positions p1 and p2 corresponding to both ends of the plant placement range R1, and a position p3 corresponding to the outermost position of the LED placement range R2, p4 (an example of the first position) is indicated. The positions p3 and p4 are positions corresponding to the outermost LEDs 50 in the X direction on the axis L1 that is a predetermined distance H1 downward from the lighting fixture 5. That is, the positions p3 and p4 are the respective intersection positions on the axis L1 of the lines drawn in the Z direction from the outermost positions x3 and x4 of the LED arrangement range R2. FIG. 11 also shows positions p5 and p6 offset on the horizontal axis by a predetermined distance Δp from the positions p3 and p4.

As shown in FIG. 11, the ideal light quantity distribution characteristic is that the light quantity is constant between positions p5 and p6 in the X direction. A preferable value of the predetermined distance Δp may vary depending on the type of the plant S. For example, it is preferable that the predetermined distance Δp is larger for a type of plant in which leaves spread than for a type of plant that does not. The predetermined distance Δp is in the range of 10 to 40 mm, preferably in the range of 40 to 60 mm, and more preferably in the range of 60 to 80 mm.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an LED arrangement of the lighting fixture 5 ′ according to the first comparative example. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of the overlap of illumination light of the plurality of LEDs 50 according to the first comparative example. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram of overlapping of illumination light of the plurality of LEDs 50 according to the first embodiment. 13 and 14 show a simple overlap for explanation, but in practice, the overlap of the illumination light of the plurality of LEDs 50 can be more complicated.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram of light quantity distribution characteristics according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 15, the horizontal axis indicates the position on the axis L1, the vertical axis indicates the amount of light, and the light amount distribution characteristics based on the test results are shown. For comparison, FIG. 15 shows a light amount distribution characteristic 71 according to the first embodiment, a light amount distribution characteristic 72 according to the first comparative example, and a light amount distribution characteristic 73 according to the second comparative example. In FIG. 15, as in FIG. 11, on the horizontal axis, the position p 0 corresponding to the center line CL, the positions p 1 and p 2 corresponding to both ends of the plant placement range R 1, and the outermost position of the LED placement range R 2. Corresponding positions p3, p4 are indicated. In the test results shown in FIG. 15, the predetermined distance Δp is 80 mm.

In the lighting fixture 5 ′ according to the first comparative example, as shown in FIG. 12, a plurality of LEDs 50 are arranged at equal intervals in the X direction. That is, the pitch d2 between the LEDs 50 in the X direction is constant. According to the first comparative example, as indicated by the light quantity distribution characteristic 72 in FIG. 15, the X of the lighting fixture 5 ′ is in a range (around positions p 3 and p 4) corresponding to both ends of the lighting fixture 5 ′ in the X direction. Compared with the range corresponding to the center of the direction (around p0), the amount of light from the lighting fixture 5 ′ is significantly less. That is, there is a difference between the amount of light received from the lighting device 5 ′ by the plant at the center of the cultivation tray that is long in the X direction and the amount of light received from the lighting device 5 ′ by the plants at both ends of the cultivation tray. This is because the LED 50 has a higher directivity of light than the fluorescent lamp (the areas S1 and S2 shown in FIG. 13 are small) and does not diffuse so much. For example, as schematically shown in FIG. 13, if the left LED 50 in FIG. 13 is the LED 50 at the end in the X direction, in the end range W1 on the reference axis L1 (for example, outside the position p3), the light The amount of light is insufficient. According to the test results shown in FIG. 15, at the positions corresponding to the outermost positions at both ends in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5 ′ (positions p3 and p4), the position corresponding to the central portion (for example, the maximum light amount around p0). The amount of light was reduced by 40% or more as compared to (position).

The lighting fixture (not shown) according to the second comparative example includes a straight tube fluorescent lamp instead of a plurality of LEDs. In the second comparative example, as indicated by the light quantity distribution characteristic 73 in FIG. 15, in the range corresponding to both ends of the straight tube fluorescent lamp in the X direction (around positions p3 and p4), The amount of light from the straight tube fluorescent lamp is significantly smaller than the range corresponding to the central portion (around p0). This tendency is more remarkable than in Comparative Example 1 described above. This is greatly influenced by the electrode portion (electrode portion provided in a relatively long range in the X direction) arranged at the end of the straight tube fluorescent lamp. In the test result shown in FIG. 15, as indicated by the light quantity distribution characteristic 73, the position corresponding to the center part (positions p 3, p 4) corresponding to the outermost positions at both ends in the X direction of the straight tube fluorescent lamp ( For example, the light amount has decreased by 60% or more compared to the position of the maximum light amount around p0.

In the first comparative example and the second comparative example, as described above, the amount of light is insufficient in the range (around positions p3 and p4) corresponding to both ends in the X direction of the lighting fixture. It was found that inconvenience occurred. The plants at both ends in the X direction in the cultivation tray 4 grow up in a direction with light (that is, closer to the center of the lighting fixture) or bend in order to receive light. In such a case, the plants at both ends in the X direction in the cultivation tray 4 are in a state that is not suitable as a product. On the other hand, by narrowing the plant placement range R1 in the X direction (for example, not using the outermost pot insertion hole 4d), such inconvenience can be avoided, but in this case, a new inconvenience that the cultivation efficiency is deteriorated. Occurs.

On the other hand, according to the lighting fixture 5 according to the first embodiment, as described above, the plurality of LEDs 50 are arranged more densely at both ends in the X direction than at the center in the X direction. Here, as schematically shown in FIG. 14, the light from the LED 50 does not diffuse much as compared with the light from the fluorescent lamp. However, when the pitch d1 between the adjacent LEDs 50 is reduced, the illumination of each of the adjacent LEDs 50 is performed. Regions where light overlaps (S3, S4, etc.) are formed. The width of the overlapping region in the X direction becomes wider as the pitch d1 between the two LEDs 50 becomes smaller when the distance in the Z direction from the LEDs 50 is the same. That is, the region S3 spreads outward, and the end range where light does not overlap (see the end range W1 in FIG. 14) is narrowed. Therefore, according to Example 1, the above-mentioned inconvenience can be reduced by densely arranging the LEDs 50 at both ends of the lighting fixture 5 as compared with the first comparative example and the like. That is, according to the first embodiment, the LEDs 50 are densely arranged at both ends of the lighting fixture 5, so the amount of light received from the lighting fixture 5 by the plants in the center of the cultivation tray 4 and the plants at both ends of the cultivation tray 4. The difference with the light quantity received from the lighting fixture 5 can be reduced.

Specifically, according to Example 1, as indicated by the light quantity distribution characteristic 71 in FIG. 15, at positions (positions p3 and p4) corresponding to the outermost positions of both ends in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5, Compared with the position corresponding to the central portion (for example, the position of the maximum light amount around p0), the light amount is hardly reduced. Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the position corresponding to the central portion from the position corresponding to the outermost positions of the both ends in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5 (positions p3 and p4) to the outer positions p5 and p6, and The amount of light is similar. In the test results shown in FIG. 15, the light amount (minimum value) up to the range of the outer positions p5 and p6 is about 15 with respect to the light amount at the position corresponding to the center (for example, the position of the maximum light amount around p0). It remained at a drop within%. That is, if the light amount at the position of the maximum light amount around p0 (an example of the second position) is “Umax” and the minimum light amount up to the outer positions p5 and p6 is “Umin”, Umin / Umax ≧ 0.85. As described above, according to the first embodiment, it is possible to realize a characteristic close to the ideal light amount distribution characteristic shown in FIG. 11 as compared with the first comparative example or the like. According to the inventor's test, Umin / Umax ≧ 0.85, but it can be seen that if Umin / Umax ≧ 0.8, an advantageous effect is obtained as compared with the first comparative example or the like. It was.

By the way, in order to increase the cultivation efficiency with the same cultivation facility, it is desired to grow as many plants as possible with one cultivation tray 4. Therefore, there is a demand for a mechanism for allowing the plants at both ends of the cultivation tray 4 to grow in the same manner as the plants at the center of the cultivation tray 4. That is, in order to increase cultivation efficiency, a mechanism that can realize characteristics close to the ideal light quantity distribution characteristics shown in FIG. 11 is required.

In this respect, according to Example 1, as described above, characteristics close to the ideal light distribution characteristics shown in FIG. 11 can be realized as compared with the first comparative example, so that the cultivation efficiency can be increased.

Next, the light diffusion action by the cover 54 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the light quantity distribution characteristics of the lighting fixture 5 when the cover 54 is not attached. FIG. 16 shows the light quantity distribution characteristics of the luminaire 5 when the horizontal axis indicates the position in the X direction, the vertical axis indicates the light quantity, and the cover 54 is not attached. In FIG. 16, the light quantity distribution characteristic 78 in the range (range of about 300 mm) corresponding to the center part of the X direction of the lighting fixture 5 is shown. Note that the scale along the vertical axis in FIG. 16 is not the same as FIG. Further, the light quantity distribution characteristic 78 shown in FIG. 16 is obtained at a position away from the lighting fixture 5 by a predetermined distance of 180 mm.

The light quantity distribution characteristic of the lighting fixture 5 when the cover 54 is not attached is a characteristic in which the light quantity has a plurality of peaks (for example, Q1 to Q4) locally as shown in FIG. In particular, it is noteworthy that the light amount that should originally be a peak is a minimum value smaller than that of the periphery at a position p0 that is directly below the LED 50 located on the center line CL in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5. . This is considered because interference fringes are generated due to the strong directivity that is a feature of the LED 50. Such a light quantity distribution characteristic similarly occurs in a range corresponding to both ends in the X direction of the lighting fixture. For example, in the cultivation of leafy vegetables, when a local peak occurs, the color of the leaves irradiated with a strong local light amount is different from the color of other parts of the leaves (for example, yellow). It was found that the “burnt” state occurred. Plants (particularly leafy vegetables) in which such a “burnt” state has occurred may become unsuitable for a product.

In this regard, according to the first embodiment, as described above, in the lighting fixture 5, the cover 54 diffuses the light from the plurality of LEDs 50. Therefore, according to the first embodiment, local peaks due to interference fringes can be suppressed, and the possibility of “leaf burning” can be reduced.

Next, referring to FIG. 17 and FIG. 18, a suitable plant cultivation method in the plant cultivation apparatus 1 will be described.

FIG. 17 is a table showing the relationship between the type of plant to be cultivated, the cultivation period, and the distance H4 of the lighting fixture 5 relative to the plant in the Z direction. The distance H4 of the lighting fixture 5 with respect to the plant has a relationship of H3 = H2 + H4 with respect to the height H2 of the plant S and the above-described distance H3 (see FIG. 6). The height H2 and the distance H4 of the plant S are distances along the Z direction. Plant types may be classified based on plant names, attributes, characteristics, and the like. Here, as an example, the types of plants are classified by name, and for example, lettuce, spinach, komatsuna, sanchu, mizuna, etc. are different types.

In FIG. 17, for the plant of type “A”, when the cultivation time is “initial”, the value is γ1, and when the cultivation time is “medium”, the value is γ2, and the cultivation time is “final”. When the period is “γ3”. The values γ1, γ2, and γ3 are in the range of 50 to 70 mm, for example, and γ1 <γ2 <γ3. Therefore, for the plant of type “A”, the distance H4, which is the distance from the height of the plant to the lighting fixture 5, increases as the cultivation time comes later. Hereinafter, the plant cultivation method in which the distance H4 is increased as the plant grows in this way is referred to as “first plant cultivation method”. The first plant cultivation method is suitable for a plant whose leaves expand (extend in the XY plane) as it grows. That is, the plant of type “A” is preferably a plant whose leaves spread as it grows, such as spinach.

By the way, even if the plant grows large (the leaves spread), it is necessary to give light uniformly to the whole plant. As described above, the light from the luminaire 5 diffuses more or less, so that the longer the distance from the illumination to the object, the wider the area of the object that the light strikes. According to the first plant cultivation method, the distance H4 between the plant and the lighting device 5 is longer after the plant has grown than before the plant grows. But you can shine evenly.

In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 17, although the distance H4 of the lighting fixture 5 with respect to a plant is adjusted in three steps according to the cultivation time, it may be two steps (for example, kind "C of FIG. 17" "See plant of"), may be four or more stages.

In addition, depending on the kind of plant, the above-mentioned 1st plant cultivation method may not necessarily be optimal. For example, depending on the type of plant, some leaves do not spread so much as they grow, and the spine grows while maintaining a certain width (width in the XY plane). When the first plant cultivation method described above is applied to this type of plant, light that does not hit the leaves (light that cannot contribute to plant growth) increases. In this regard, in the example shown in FIG. 17, for example, for the plant of type “B”, the distance H4 is the same as the value γ2 regardless of whether the cultivation period is “initial”, “medium period”, or “final period”. Hereinafter, the plant cultivation method that keeps the distance H4 constant without changing the distance H4 throughout the plant cultivation period is referred to as a “second plant cultivation method”. As described above, the second plant cultivation method is suitable for plants in which leaves do not spread so much as they grow. That is, the plant of type “B” is preferably a plant whose leaves do not spread so much as it grows, such as lettuce.

FIG. 18 is a schematic flowchart of the plant cultivation method.

When adjusting the height of the lighting fixture 5 with respect to the plant S of the type “A”, for example, the user first measures the height H2 of the plant S (step S1). Next, the user determines the current cultivation time (step S2). Next, the user determines the distance H4 according to the plant S of the type “A” and the cultivation time, for example, based on the regulation information as shown in FIG. 17 (step S3). Next, the user determines the distance H3 by summing the height H2 obtained in step S2 and the distance H4 determined in step S3 (step S4). Next, the user adjusts the height of the lighting fixture 5 with the elevating mechanism 16 so that the distance H3 (see FIG. 6) is realized (step S5).

According to such a plant cultivation method, using the plant cultivation apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment, the lighting apparatus 5 can be irradiated with light in a mode suitable for the growth of the plant while taking into consideration the type and cultivation period of the plant. Height can be adjusted and cultivation efficiency can be improved.

[Example 2]
The plant cultivation apparatus according to Example 2 differs from the plant cultivation apparatus 1 according to Example 1 described above in that the lighting fixture 5 is replaced with the lighting fixture 5A. About the other structure of the plant cultivation apparatus by Example 2, it may be the same as that of the plant cultivation apparatus 1 by Example 1 mentioned above, and description is simplified or abbreviate | omitted. The lighting fixture 5A is different from the lighting fixture 5 according to the first embodiment described above only in the LED arrangement. Hereinafter, the LED arrangement of the lighting fixture 5A will be described.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing the internal structure (LED arrangement) of the lighting fixture 5A according to the second embodiment, and shows a view (arrow B in FIG. 6) similar to FIG. 8 described above with respect to the lighting fixture 5A. It is. In FIG. 19, illustration of wiring and the like on the substrate 56 is omitted.

As in the first embodiment described above, the plurality of LEDs 50 are arranged more densely at both ends in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5A than in the central portion in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5A. In addition, the both ends of X direction of lighting fixture 5A are the site | parts in predetermined range (DELTA) x1 of the both sides of LED arrangement | positioning range R2, as above-mentioned. In the second embodiment, as an example, the predetermined range Δx1 is a range including only two LEDs 50.

In the second embodiment, unlike the first embodiment described above, the pitches d3 and d4 between the LEDs 50 in the X direction are constant, and the number of columns of the LEDs 50 is “2” at both ends in the X direction. That is, in Example 2, the plurality of LEDs 50 are arranged in one row at the central portion in the X direction, but are arranged in two rows at both ends in the X direction. In Example 2, the plurality of LEDs 50 are arranged in two rows only on the outermost sides on both sides in the X direction, but other modes are also possible. For example, the predetermined range Δx1 may be a range including four or more LEDs 50. For example, in the example illustrated in FIG. 20, each of both ends in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5 A includes four LEDs 50 (that is, the predetermined range Δx 1 is a range including four LEDs 50).

Further, the number of columns at both ends in the X direction and the number of columns at the center in the X direction are arbitrary as long as the number of columns at both ends is larger than the number of columns at the center. Therefore, for example, the number of columns at both ends in the X direction may be “3”, and the number of columns at the center may be “2”. In addition, when each of both ends in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5A includes four or more LEDs 50 (that is, when the predetermined range Δx1 is a range including four or more LEDs 50), the number of columns at both ends in the X direction changes. May be. For example, there may be three rows at the outermost positions at both ends in the X direction, and two rows at other positions at both ends in the X direction.

Also according to the second embodiment, since the plurality of LEDs 50 are arranged more densely at both ends in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5A than in the central portion of the lighting fixture 5A in the X direction, the same effect as the first embodiment described above. Is obtained.

In Example 2, the pitches d3 and d4 between the LEDs 50 in the X direction are constant, but are not limited thereto. Also in the second embodiment, the pitches d3 and d4 between the LEDs 50 are denser at both ends in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5A than in the central portion of the lighting fixture 5A in the X direction as in the first embodiment. It may be set in a manner. For example, d3 <d4 and the pitch d4 may be set in the same manner as the pitch d1 in the first embodiment described above.

In Example 2, the two rows of LEDs 50 are offset only in the Y direction without being offset in the X direction, but may be offset not only in the Y direction but also in the X direction.

[Example 3]
The plant cultivation apparatus according to Example 3 is different from the plant cultivation apparatus 1 according to Example 1 described above in that the lighting fixture 5 is replaced with the lighting fixture 5B. About the other structure of the plant cultivation apparatus by Example 3, it may be the same as that of the plant cultivation apparatus 1 by Example 1 mentioned above, and description is simplified or abbreviate | omitted. The lighting fixture 5B is different from the lighting fixture 5 according to the first embodiment described above only in the LED arrangement. Hereinafter, the LED arrangement of the lighting fixture 5B will be described.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view showing the internal structure (LED arrangement) of the lighting fixture 5B according to the third embodiment, and shows the same view (arrow B in FIG. 6) as that of FIG. 8 described above with respect to the lighting fixture 5B. It is. In FIG. 21, illustration of wiring and the like on the substrate 56B is omitted. FIG. 22 is a sectional view taken along line CC in FIG. FIG. 22 shows the optical axis 80 of the LED 50 at the end.

Unlike the first and second embodiments described above, the plurality of LEDs 50 are arranged in the X direction at equal intervals of pitch d2 as in the first comparative example described above. However, in Example 3, the optical axis of the LED 50 at both ends in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5B is directed outward in the X direction with respect to the optical axis of the LED 50 at the center portion in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5B. In addition, the both ends of the X direction of the lighting fixture 5B are the site | parts in predetermined range (DELTA) x1 of the both sides of LED arrangement | positioning range R2, as mentioned above. In the third embodiment, as an example, the predetermined range Δx1 is a range including only two LEDs 50.

In the example shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, both ends of the substrate 56B are bent upward along the bending line 560 in the Y direction. In other words, the normal direction of the substrate 56B faces the outside in the X direction at both ends in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5B. More specifically, the normal direction of the substrate 56B is the Z direction at the center of the lighting fixture 5B in the X direction, but the X direction of the lighting fixture 5B is inclined at an angle θ with respect to the Z direction. Turn to the outside at the corner. The angle θ is in the range of 5 to 20 degrees, and preferably in the range of 5 to 10 degrees.

Also in Example 3, the same effect as in Example 1 described above can be obtained. Specifically, the light from the LED 50 has a higher directivity of light compared to the fluorescent lamp as described above. Therefore, when the optical axis is directed outward, a range corresponding to both ends of the lighting fixture 5B in the X direction. The amount of light at (around positions p3 and p4) (see FIG. 15) is significantly increased. As a result, also in Example 3, the difference between the amount of light received by the plants in the center of the cultivation tray 4 from the lighting fixture 5B and the amount of light received by the plants at both ends of the cultivation tray 4 from the lighting fixture 5B can be reduced.

In the third embodiment, the direction of the optical axis of the LED 50 is changed by bending the substrate 56B. However, by providing an inclined spacer between the flat substrate 56B and the LED 50, the light of the LED 50 can be changed. The direction of the axis may be changed.

In Example 3, the pitch d2 between the LEDs 50 in the X direction is constant, but is not limited thereto. Also in the third embodiment, the pitch d2 between the LEDs 50 is similar to the first embodiment described above in a manner in which both end portions in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5B are denser than the central portion in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5B. , May be set. Alternatively, the pitch d2 between the LEDs 50 in the region closer to the center than the bent line 560 may be set smaller toward the outside. In this case, the both ends in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5B may be a range including the LEDs 50 at both ends of the region on the center side with respect to the bending line 560.

In Example 3, the number of LEDs 50 in the lighting fixture 5B is the same at both ends and the center in the X direction, but is not limited thereto. Also in Example 3, the number of LEDs 50 in the lighting fixture 5B is such that the number of both ends in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5B is larger than the central portion in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5B, as in the second embodiment. And may be set. Alternatively, the number of columns of the LEDs 50 may be set larger toward the outside in a region closer to the center than the bent line 560. In this case, the both ends in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5B may be a range including the LEDs 50 at both ends of the region on the center side with respect to the bending line 560.

As mentioned above, although each Example was explained in full detail, it is not limited to a specific Example, A various deformation | transformation and change are possible within the range described in the claim. It is also possible to combine all or a plurality of the components of the above-described embodiments.

For example, in Example 1 and Example 2 described above, the plurality of LEDs 50 are arranged closer to both ends in the X direction than the central part in the X direction of the

lighting fixtures

5 and 5A. I can't. For example, the plurality of LEDs 50 may be densely arranged only at one of both end portions in the X direction as compared with the central portion in the X direction. Similarly, in Example 3 described above, the plurality of LEDs 50 have an optical axis outward in the X direction only in one of both end portions in the X direction as compared to the central portion in the X direction of the lighting fixture 5B. May be directed.

In Examples 1 to 3 described above, the light color (wavelength) of the LED 50 is white, but the wavelength of the LED 50 is arbitrary. For example, only some of the plurality of LEDs 50 may have different wavelengths. Further, a plurality of LEDs having different wavelengths may be arranged offset in the Y direction with respect to the plurality of LEDs 50.

Further, in Embodiments 1 to 3 described above, the cover 54 functions as a diffusing unit, but the diffusing unit may be realized by other than the cover 54. That is, a similar diffusing portion may be provided at an arbitrary position in the optical path from the LED 50 toward the plant S. Further, the cover 54 may be omitted when cultivating other than leafy vegetables.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Plant cultivation apparatus 2 Cultivation rack 2a Prop 2b 1st beam 2c 2nd beam 3

Cultivation unit

4, 4A Cultivation tray 4a Cultivation container 4b Lid 4c Hose insertion hole 4d Pot insertion hole 4e Liquid manure introduction area 4f Liquid

manure discharge Hole

5, 5A, 5B Lighting device 6 Transport device 7 Rail 8 Liquid fertilization hose 9 Cultivation pot 9a Vertical slit 10 Liquid amount adjuster 15 Wiring cord 16 Lifting mechanism 16a Arm 16b Beam 16c Plate 16d Support tool 17 Wire 18 Pulley 19 Coil spring 51 Clean room 54

Cover

56, 56B Substrate 56L Substrate element 56R Substrate element 58 Heat radiation part 80 Optical axis 520 Positive terminal 521 Negative terminal 522 Positive terminal 523 Negative terminal 524 Positive side wiring 524 Wiring 526 Negative side wiring 527 Wiring 528 Wiring 529 Wiring

Claims

A plurality of LEDs arranged densely in comparison with the central portion in at least one of both ends of the LED arrangement range extending in the first direction;
An illuminating device for plant cultivation, comprising: a diffusion unit that diffuses light emitted from the plurality of LEDs toward the plant.
The lighting device for plant cultivation according to claim 1, wherein a pitch between the plurality of LEDs in the first direction is smaller than that of the central portion in at least one of the both end portions.
The lighting device for plant cultivation according to claim 2, wherein when the far side from the central portion in the first direction is set to the outside, the pitch becomes smaller as it goes to the outside in the first direction.
The plant cultivation according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the number of rows of the plurality of LEDs in the first direction is greater in at least one of the both end portions than in the central portion. Lighting equipment.
The lighting device for plant cultivation according to claim 4, wherein the number of rows in the central portion is 1, and the number of rows in at least one of the both end portions is 2.
A plurality of LEDs arranged in an LED arrangement range extending in the first direction and emitting light toward the plant direction;
When the far side from the center part of the LED arrangement range in the first direction is the outside, regarding the light quantity distribution characteristic on the axis along the first direction that is a predetermined distance away from the plurality of LEDs in the plant direction. The amount of light from the plurality of LEDs corresponds to the central portion on the axis at a first position corresponding to the outermost LED on at least one side in the first direction on the axis. The lighting device for plant cultivation which is comparable to the second position.
7. The plant cultivation according to claim 6, wherein the light quantity is about the same as the second position on the axis from the first position on the axis to the outside in a range of 60 to 80 mm with respect to the light quantity distribution characteristic. Lighting equipment.
The lighting device for plant cultivation according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the fact that the amount of light is comparable includes a difference within 20%.
The plurality of LEDs are such that at least one of both ends of the LED arrangement range in the first direction, the direction of the optical axis is outward in the first direction compared to the central portion. The lighting device for plant cultivation according to any one of 8.
The plurality of LEDs are mounted on a substrate,
The normal direction of the substrate is at least one of both ends of the LED arrangement range in the first direction and faces outward in the first direction as compared to the central portion. The lighting apparatus for plant cultivation of any one of these.
The lighting device for plant cultivation according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the predetermined distance is in a range of 50 to 70 mm.
The plurality of LEDs are arranged densely in the first direction in at least one of both end portions of the LED arrangement range as compared with the central portion. The lighting apparatus for plant cultivation of description.
A plurality of LEDs arranged in an LED arrangement range extending in the first direction;
An illuminating device for plant cultivation, comprising: a diffusion unit that diffuses light emitted from the plurality of LEDs toward the plant.
A tray on which plants are placed;
A lighting device including a plurality of LEDs emitting light toward the plant direction in an LED arrangement range extending in the first direction;
When the far side from the center part of the LED arrangement range in the first direction is the outside, regarding the light quantity distribution characteristic on the axis along the first direction that is a predetermined distance away from the plurality of LEDs in the plant direction. The amount of light from the plurality of LEDs is on the axis from the first position corresponding to the outermost LED on at least one side in the first direction to the outside in a range of 60 to 80 mm. The plant cultivation apparatus which is the same level as the second position corresponding to the central portion.
The LED arrangement range is substantially the same in the first direction with respect to the plant placement range in the first direction in which the plants in the tray are placed, and more than the plant placement range. The plant cultivation device according to claim 14, which extends to the outside.
The tray has a plurality of holes along the first direction, and has a plurality of holes on which the plurality of plants are respectively placed.
The plant cultivation device according to claim 15, wherein the plant placement range extends between center positions of the holes at both ends in the first direction.
The plant cultivation apparatus according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the LED arrangement range extends to a range of 20 to 30 mm outward from the plant placement range.
The plant cultivation device according to any one of claims 14 to 17, further comprising an elevating mechanism for changing a height of the lighting device with respect to the tray.
The plant cultivation device according to any one of claims 14 to 18, wherein a plurality of sets of the lighting device and the tray are provided.
A cultivation method for cultivating a plant using a lighting device that is variable in height relative to the mounting surface of the plant,
In the first cultivation period, the interval from the height of the plant to the lighting device is adjusted to the first interval,
In the second cultivation time after the first cultivation time, the interval from the height of the plant to the lighting device is adjusted to a second interval larger than the first interval, Cultivation method.