WO2021260683A1

WO2021260683A1 - System, device and method for improving plant growth

Info

Publication number: WO2021260683A1
Application number: PCT/IL2021/050748
Authority: WO
Inventors: Itai Argaman; Yaron MAKLER
Original assignee: Biosound Ltd.
Priority date: 2020-06-21
Filing date: 2021-06-20
Publication date: 2021-12-30

Abstract

A system and method are provided for improving the growth of a plant, the method comprising the steps of: placing speakers in the growing area of a plant; selecting a sound pattern having one or more of the sound characteristics of a frequency, a volume, a source, and an acoustic environment; and emitting the selected sound pattern from the speakers.

Description

SYSTEM, DEVICE AND METHOD FOR IMPROVING PLANT GROWTH

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[001] The present invention is in the field of agriculture. More specifically to the use of sound to improve various growth characteristics of plants, fruits, vegetables, etc.

BACKGROUND

[002] There are many techniques and systems trying to improve plant growth. One technique is “talking" and playing music to the plants to improve growth and fruit yield. Recently, various research regarding the effects of sound and vibrations on plant growth were conducted. It was found that plants have highly complex sensory networks for monitoring their surroundings, and have been shown to modify their growth and development to suit their environment.

[003] Yu-Chuan Qin et al. (“Biochemical and physiological changes in plants as a result of different sonic exposures”, Elsevier's Ultrasonics J., 2003, Vol. 41: 407-41) showed that exposing various plants to steady ultrasonic (US) waves of 20 k Hz, or to “green music” (GM) consisting of a combination of classical music and natural sounds including bird songs, increased 02 intake and polyamines content compared to control plants.

[004] Other studies focused on specific frequencies' effects. Mi-Jeong Jeong et al. (“Plant gene responses to frequency- specific sound signals”, Mol. Breeding J., 2008, Vol. 21: 217-226) demonstrated sound affecting plant growth through mRNA expression analyses.

[005] US 7,600,343 discusses the effect of shock waves on plant growth.

[006] However, to date, no technique has been proven to be efficient or implemented in practice to improve large-scale plant growth. Thus, systems and methods are needed that can improve plant growth and other plant properties, which are easy and simple to use and are cost- effective.

SUMMARY

[007] The present invention provides a computerized system for assisting crop growth, comprising: (a) a speaker system comprising: one or more speakers that may produce sub frequencies, audible and ultrasonic frequencies; and optionally one or more subwoofers; (b) a sound system comprising: a computer comprising a processor and a memory, the computer having one or more audio outputs to send independent audio channel for each individual speaker; and (c) a sound library comprising a plurality of audio tracks, each audio track adapted for a particular function for a given crop type, wherein the sound system selects one or more audio tracks according to various parameters, such as the type of crop, time, date, season, temperature, light, humidity, growing stage, etc.

[008] In certain embodiments, the system further comprises at least one of: (i) a built-in screen or an external remote/control unit; (ii) at least one microphone for system calibration; (iii) one or more sensors for collecting data from the plants and/or the surroundings; and (iv) an amplifier, such as a multi-channel amplifier.

[009] In specific embodiments of the system, the speakers are wired or wireless.

[010] In certain embodiments of the system according to any of the embodiments above, the computer is connected (wire or wirelessly) to the internet/cloud for processing.

[Oil] In certain embodiments of the system according to any of the embodiments above, the speakers are designed to be placed around, above and/or below the growing surface of the plants/crops.

[012] In certain embodiments of the system according to any of the embodiments above, the computer is connected to a cloud-based processing system, and wherein the one or more input parameters are processed by an application in the cloud-based processing system to determine the one or more audio tracks.

[013] In certain embodiments, the system according to any of the embodiments above is designed to generate frequencies using electronic or digital oscillator(s).

[014] The present invention further provides a growing box or any other growing compartment, comprising a system according to any of the embodiments above.

[015] The present invention further provides a method for improving the growth of a plant(s)/crop(s), the method comprises the steps of: (a) placing the speakers of a system according to any one of the preceding claims in the growing area, e.g. around the crops/plants;

(b) selecting/determining the sound frequency, volume, source, and acoustic environment; and

(c) emitting the selected/determined sound.

[016] In certain embodiments of the method, the placing of the speakers is on the ground, underground, and/or over the ground, such that essentially equal energy of sound is received to all plants/crops in the growing area. [017] In certain embodiments of the method, the selection/determination of the sound frequency, volume, source, and acoustic environment, is based on any one of: the type of plant, growing phase, date, temperature, light, humidity, or any combination thereof.

[018] In certain embodiments, the method according to any of the embodiments above further comprises a step of placing sensors in the growing area and receiving data therefrom, and/or receiving data from a database (including manual input) for selecting/determining the sound frequency, volume, source, and acoustic environment.

[019] In certain embodiments, the method according to any of the embodiments above further comprises a step of receiving data from (external) sensors that are used to obtain biofeedback to determine the effectiveness of the sounds.

[020] In certain embodiments of the method according to any of the embodiments above, the selection/determination of the sound frequency, volume, source, and acoustic environment is further based on the obtained biofeedback.

[021] In certain embodiments, the method according to any of the embodiments above results in a healthier, bigger and richer in both plant environment and also the plant's biological, chemical and nutritional values.

[022] The present invention further provides a method for biologic pest control, including the steps of: (a) placing the speakers of a system according to any one of the preceding claims in the growing area, e.g. around the crops/plants; (b) selecting/determining the sound frequency, volume, source, and acoustic environment; and (c) emitting the select ed/determined sound, wherein the sounds/frequencies that are selected/determined are aimed at reducing or entirely removing unnecessary organisms from the environment of the plant or from the plant itself.

[023] The present invention further provides a method for improving and facilitating good sources of external insects, bugs, and other organisms that support plant growth and ecosystem, the method comprises the steps of: (a) placing the speakers of a system according to any one of the preceding claims in the growing area, e.g. around the crops/plants; (b) selecting/determining the sound frequency, volume, source, and acoustic environment; and (c) emitting the selected/determined sound, wherein the sounds/frequencies that are selected/determined are aimed at attracting organisms to the environment of the plant or to the plant itself.

[024] Selecting the sound pattern may include selecting a dual sound pattern, each of the dual sounds being in a range of 50-250 Hz. The sound pattern may be a mix of white noise with a sound that varies over a frequency range of 4-6 kHz, where the variation occurs at a rate of 1 hertz. Other rates of change can also be applied to cause the frequency that is applied to vary from 4 kHz to 6 kHz. A rate of change of the frequency may be any rate between 0.1 Hz and 30 Hz.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[025] For a better understanding of various embodiments of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings. Structural details of the invention are shown to provide a fundamental understanding of the invention, the description, taken with the drawings, making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the invention may be embodied in practice.

[026] In the accompanying drawings:

[027] Fig. 1 is an illustration of a system and method, according to embodiments of the invention, for applying sound to plants in an outdoor area;

[028] Fig. 2 is an illustration of the system and method, according to another embodiment of invention, for applying sound to plants in an indoor area;

[029] Figs. 3A and 3B are schematic illustrations of components of the system, according to some embodiments of the invention; and

[030] Fig. 4 is a schematic illustration of further components of the system, according to some embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[031] The present invention provides systems and methods to improve several parameters related to various plants, fruits and vegetables, mushrooms, sea weeds, etc. The systems and methods of the invention are based on the use of soundwaves, tones, frequencies, music, ambient sounds and effects.

[032] The concept underlying the present invention is that sounds of nature should be reapplied in modem agriculture. Nowadays plants agriculture has been developed to a stage in which cultivation does not take place in the natural geographical region and environment of a plant. The unnatural setting can slow down or harm the cultivation process. [033] The present method facilitates creation of the original sound environment that supports the entire process and stimulates plant growth, which results in a healthier, bigger and richer plant. The sounds supplied improve a plant's environment as well as the plant's biological, chemical and nutritional values.

[034] Another aspect of the systems and methods of the invention is directed towards biologic pest control: using specific and controlled frequencies reduces organisms, such as bugs, flies, pests and other harmful insects from the environment of the plant or from the plant itself.

[035] Yet another aspect of the systems and methods of the invention is to attract beneficial external insects, bugs, and other organisms that support the ecosystem, by using specific and controlled frequencies.

[036] Growing plants according to the methods of the invention improves many plants' characteristics. For instance, in cannabis, the following parameters might be improved: cannabinoid (144 known types), terpene, and flavonoids content; yield; height; plant mass; leaf size; weight; and sugar ratio.

[037] It should be noted that the present systems and methods can be implemented during the entire life cycle of the plant, i.e. from germination, throughout the different stages in the plants development and eventually during the post-harvest process. Notably, each stage of the plant life cycle requires designated sonic treatment.

[038] Fig. 1 illustrates one methodology of installing a system 100, according to one embodiment of the invention, for an outdoor application such as installation in an orchard 102. As illustrated, 6 speakers 110 are positioned around an orchard, directing the emitting soundwaves towards the center of the orchard. The illustrated system further includes two subwoofers (SUB) 120 that emit sound covering the entire field. The speakers can be placed above the growing surface or below, depends of the surface itself. The idea is to cover the entire field with sound. Once the speakers are located, the microphone is placed in the center of the field or the speakers' perimeter, so that essentially equal energy of sound is received from all around. In a bigger field more and/or stronger speakers will be used to achieve the correct sound volume. The speakers can be adjusted to different angles if needed in order to focus on specific plants or to cover the whole surface. The SUB can be located anywhere in the field since low frequencies are not direct as higher frequencies. Notably, indoor facilities or confined spaces or growing facilities are usually equipped with construction onto which speakers can be placed above or next to the plants.

[039] It should be noted that the number of speakers and subwoofers can vary according to the size and shape of the orchard; according to the type of plant; as well as according to the point of growth (i.e. life cycle time). Accordingly, the number of speakers and subwoofers being used in the system and method of the invention is from 1 to 1000, and may be greater for especially large installations.

[040] Fig. 2 illustrates another methodology of installing the system 100 according to another embodiment of the invention, such as installation in an indoor space 202, such as a greenhouse, a box, a tent, a shed, a room, an automatic growing box, etc. As illustrated, one speaker 110A is positioned on the ground, below a plant 220 and another speaker HOB is on the ceiling above the plant. It should be noted that the number of speakers and subwoofers can vary according to the size and shape of the space; according to the type of plant; as well as according to the point of growth (i.e. life cycle time). In addition, the location of the speakers and subwoofers can be on any of the walls and at any height. Accordingly, the number of speakers and subwoofers being used in the system and method of the invention is from 1 to 1000, or any number according to the size of the orchard. An alternative option is to hang the speaker(s) above the plants to thereby create a “waterfall” of sounds directed to the plant's top. Fig. 2 illustrates one speaker that is located above or next to the plant.

[041] Notably, there are a few other elements in the environment of such a system, such as: lights, fans, sprinklers, etc., and the present system does not interfere with the other elements in the environment. Accordingly, the present invention can be embedded in existing growing facilities, such as tents, boxes and greenhouses, or can be incorporated therewith during manufacture of, e.g., automatic growing tent/box, in which case the speakers can be positioned correctly during manufacturing. Accordingly, in certain embodiments, the present invention provides a standalone device/growing tent/box comprising the sound system of the invention. [042] The present invention provides a system for improving plant growth at all stages, starting with plant seeds prior to germination, through planting and cultivation.

[043] Figs. 3A and 3B are schematic illustrations of different components of the system 100, for growing plants 220, according to some embodiments of the invention. As shown in Fig. 3A the system includes: speakers 110, affixed to a top plate 310; a support plate 312; shock absorber supports 314; an electric power and sound connector 320, a microphone 330; and one or more environmental sensors 335, such as a thermometer and/or moisture sensor. The top and support plates are typically made of metal, wood, or plastic composite material.

[044] Additional elements of system 100 are shown in Fig. 3B, showing multiple top plates 312, each top plate including a speaker 110 and connected to a power and/or sound connection by connectors 320. A sound system 350 provides sounds from a database of sounds. The sound system drives a sound amplifier 360.

[045] Fig. 4 is an illustration of the system 100 according to some embodiments of the invention, in which the system comprises the multiple speakers 110 and the sub 120, the microphone 330; and the one or more environmental sensors 335. Also indicated is a cloud- based computing system 410, to which the sound system 350 is attached, as well as a remote- control unit 420. The sound system is attached to the speakers 110 and the sub 120 (by the amplifier 360, not shown), as well as to the microphone and sensors. The cloud-based computing system 410 (“the cloud”) is where input/output sounds are processed. The cloud also enables remote control of the system: once the system is connected, each user may registers with a cloud- based application, and input the product/crop, and then all sensor and crop data is tracked and controlled, enabling the system to be updated and sending new features to the speaker system as well as remote support.

[046] In specific embodiments, the sound system includes: (a) a computer based device such as a Raspberry pi, with at least one audio output to send independent audio channel for each individual speaker; (b) iOS, Android, Windows, Linux OS or any other operation platform; (c) optional, a Wi-Fi connection to the interne t/cloud for additional processing; (d) a control panel- either a built-in screen or from the a remote control device (e.g. tablet, phone, computer) associated therewith, optionally operable via a dedicated application; (e) remote operation through cloud based services: receive and send data for operating and processing externally; (f) stream online sound's content via Wi-Fi or/and Bluetooth (BT). The microphone may be used for system calibration; the sensors for collecting data from plants.

[047] Once connected in the field, the system is designed to run multiple tests to scan the growing space and the speaker's situation by sending testing signals through the speakers and receiving data from the sensors/microphone. The system uses all gathered data, either in the built-in computer or in the cloud, to calculate and calibrate the system accordingly. In certain embodiments, the remote control is an application that can be installed on a mobile device or computer that operates/modify the system by the end user. Finally, the system is designed to generate sounds according to the resulting conclusions. Besides the technical calibration, the system may further decide the type of sounds to be used according to the condition of the growing space. In specific embodiments, the system can receive data from external sensors and act as a biofeedback device which takes data and sends it out after applying a predefined process based upon the gathered data.

[048] In certain embodiments, the speaker system is controlled by the sound system or the computer, wherein the speaker system comprises: (a) one or more speakers that may produce sub frequencies, audible and ultrasonic frequencies; and (b) one or more subwoofers. In certain embodiments, the speakers are wired. Alternatively, they are wirelessly connected, e.g. via BT and Wi-Fi.

[049] It should be noted that the speakers can be placed around, above and/or below the growing surface. The speakers can be placed in a growing tent, greenhouse, growing boxes (mini bar), cabinets, hydroponic systems, home and/or commercial facilities, or any other desired location.

[050] Various sound sources can be used in the method of the invention and/or in association with the system of the invention. In specific embodiments, the sound source being used is based on input received from, e.g., external sensors or previous data.

[051] Non-limiting examples of sound sources are:

(a) Multi layers of sounds that are made of different frequencies, audio recordings, ambient sounds, music, tones and music scales. Each sound can be sent to specific or multiple speakers surrounding the field. The system can also generate the layers of sounds according to the input signals arriving from sensors attached to plant(s) or spread in the field. For example: if the plant produces a tone that can be measured with a sensor, the system will take that tone and use it as a fundamental tone to reproduce new sounds, ambient sounds, atmosphere sounds, music, melody, harmonies and so on. Examples for parts of the layers are:

(i) Schumann resonance frequencies - This global electromagnetic resonance phenomenon is named after physicist Winfried Otto Schumann who predicted it mathematically in 1952. Schumann resonances occur because the space between the surface of the Earth and the conductive ionosphere acts as a closed waveguide. The limited dimensions of the Earth cause this waveguide to act as a resonant cavity for electromagnetic waves in the ELF band. The cavity is naturally excited by electric currents in lightning. Schumann resonances are the principal background in the part of the electromagnetic spectrum from 3 Hz through 60 Hz, and appear as distinct peaks at extremely low frequencies (ELF) around 7.83 Hz (fundamental), 14.3, 20.8, 27.3 and 33.8 Hz.

(ii) Fibonacci numbers converted to frequencies - Fibonacci sequences appear in biological settings such as branching in trees, arrangement of leaves on a stem, the fruitlets of a pineapple, the flowering of artichoke, an uncurling fern and the arrangement of a pine cone, and the family tree of honeybees. Kepler pointed out the presence of the Fibonacci sequence in nature, using it to explain the (golden ratio-related) pentagonal form of some flowers. Field daisies most often have petals in counts of Fibonacci numbers. A series of numbers in which each number (Fibonacci number) is the sum of the two preceding numbers. The simplest is the series; 1Hz, 1Hz, 2Hz, 3Hz, 5Hz, 8Hz, 13Hz, 21 Hz, 34Hz, 55Hz. 89Hz, 144Hz, etc...

(iii) Using the golden ratio - There's a mathematical ratio commonly found in nature; the ratio of 1 to 1.618 - that has many names- such as "Golden Section", "Golden Ratio", "Golden Mean", "Golden Number", "Divine Proportion", "Golden Proportion", "Fibonacci Number", and "Phi". For example, in order to use the golden ratio in the sound field as part of the frequency series, one will start from 1Hz and add the golden ratio number to it: 1+1,618 = 2,618; 2.618+1.618= 4.236; etc. This will provide a series of frequencies: 1Hz, 2.618Hz, 4.236Hz, 5.854Hz, etc. Another option is to multiply the golden ratio numbers: 1*1.618 = 1.618; 1.618*1.618 = 2.617; 2.617*1.618 = 4.234; 4.234*1.618= 6.850; etc. This will provide a series of frequencies: 1Hz, 1 ,618Hz, 2.617Hz, 4.234Hz, 6,850Hz, etc.

(iv) Sub and or higher harmonies - The system can generate harmonies by octaves starting from the fundamental frequency. For example, 10Hz, 20Hz, 40Hz, 80Hz, 160Hz, etc., and in reverse 200Hz, 100Hz, 50Hz, 25Hz, etc.

(v) Musical intervals - The system can create intervals between notes to randomly create a musical part based on an interval that is the relationship between two separate musical pitches. For example, in the melody twinkle twinkle little star, the first two notes (the first "twinkle") and the second two notes (the second "twinkle") are at the interval of one fifth. What this means is that if the first two notes were the pitch C, the second two notes would be the pitch "G" - four scale notes, or seven chromatic notes (a perfect fifth), above it. The following are common intervals. Additional examples of possible intervals are: unison 1:1 (e.g. C/C), octave 2:1 (e.g. C/C an octave above), minor second 16:15 (e.g. C/C sharp/D flat), major second 9:8 (e.g. C/D), minor third 6:5 (C/E flat), major third 4:5 (e.g. C/E), perfect fourth 4:3 (e.g. C/F), tritone 45:32 (e.g. C/F sharp), perfect fifth 3:2 (e.g. C/G), minor sixth 8:5 (e.g. C/A flat), major sixth 5:3 (e.g. C/A), minor seventh 7:4 (e.g. C/B flat), and major seventh 15:8 (e.g. C/B).

(b) Solfeggio frequencies make up the ancient 6-tone scale thought to have been used in sacred music, including the beautiful and well-known Gregorian Chants. The chants and their special tones were believed to impart spiritual blessings when sung in harmony. Each Solfeggio tone is comprised of a frequency required to balance your energy and keep your body, mind and spirit in perfect harmony. The main six Solfeggio frequencies are: 396 Hz - Liberating Guilt and Fear; 417 Hz - Undoing Situations and Facilitating Change; 528 Hz - Transformation and Miracles (DNA Repair); 639 Hz - Connecting/Relationships; 741 Hz - Expression/Solutions; and 852 Hz - Returning to Spiritual Order

(c) Ambient and atmosphere sounds: (i) Nature - play mono/stereo, binaural or multi-channel recordings of nature sounds in different times and geographical regions. For example, if the plant originally growing in specific geographical region, the system will generate a sound recording from that region. The sound objects can be recorded during morning/noon/evening/night times; (ii) Animals (bees, bats, insects, whales, dolphins, birds): The system can play recording of animals to stimulates and trigger growth in plants. The system can use for example: recordings of bees or other insects that are known as beneficial for healthier growth; (iii) weather; (iv) 432 Hz as A - natural scale; and (v) pink, brown and white noise for balanced energy.

[052] In certain embodiments, the sounds used are sync to the time of the day, geographical region and current weather.

[053] It should be noted that any harmonics described above can go up to the ultrasonic range. [054] The system and method of the present invention are designed to suit the growing of all types of plants at all growth stages. In specific embodiments, the system and method can be used to improve growth and development of other organisms, such as animals and insects.

[055] Algorithm- the system and method according to the invention are designed to receive input/data from the environment and/or the plant(s) itself using, e.g., sensors, and use same to determine the frequencies that should be used/emitted. This can be done, for example by using a fast Fourier transform (FFT) in real time. An FFT is an algorithm that computes the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) of a sequence, or its inverse (IDFT). Fourier analysis converts a signal from its original domain (often time or space) to a representation in the frequency domain and vice versa. The system creates a unique set of frequencies as described/exemplified above according to the fundamental frequency calculated from the input. An example FFT algorithm structure, using decomposition into half-size FFTs is: a discrete Fourier analysis of a sum of cosine waves at 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 Hz.

[056] For example: a sensor attached to the plant, the sensor receive data (numbers), the system converts the data into frequencies by using FFT, then, the system takes the fundamental note and adds harmonics to it based of our description above. The idea is to create natural patterns of sounds, natural melodies and automatic musical notes and scales using the data received from the sensors attached to the plant or the space around it.

[057] For instance, if the fundamental tone is 20 Hz, there are few options:

(1) Using the Fibonacci Series: 20Hz+20Hz= 40Hz, 40Hz+20Hz= 60Hz, 60Hz+40Hz= 100Hz, 100Hz+60Hz= 160Hz, 160Hz+100Hz= 260Hz. In this example we can use a new frequencies model which is: 20Hz, 20Hz, 40Hz, 60Hz, 100Hz, 160Hz, 260Hz etc.;

(2) Using the golden ratio: 20Hz*1.618= 32.36Hz, 32.36Hz*1.618= 52.35848Hz, 52.35848Hz* 1.618= 84.7160Hz, 84.7160Hz*1.618=137.070521Hz etc. In this example we get a new frequencies model which is: 20Hz, 32.36Hz, 52.35848Hz, 84.7160Hz, 137.070521Hz, etc.;

(3) Using Sub and or higher harmonies: By multiply the fundamental tone by 2 we get a new series: 20Hz, 40Hz, 80Hz, 160Hz, 320, 640Hz, 1280Hz etc.; and

(4) Musical Intervals : Unison 1:1 (e.g. C/C), Octave 2:1 (e.g. C/C an octave above), Minor Second 16:15 (e.g. C/C sharp/D flat), Major Second 9:8 (e.g. C/D), Minor Third 6:5 (C/E flat), Major Third 4:5 (e.g. C/E), Perfect Fourth 4:3 (e.g. C/F), Tritone 45:32 (e.g. C/F sharp), Perfect Fifth 3:2 (e.g. C/G), Minor Sixth 8:5 (e.g. C/A flat), Major Sixth 5:3 (e.g. C/A), Minor Seventh 7:4 (e.g. C/B flat), Major Seventh 15:8 (e.g. C/B). If our fundamental tone is 20Hz= (Eo) we can create a musical melody according to the list above for example 20Hz (E) the perfect fifth interval would be: 20Hz*1.5 (3:2) =30Hz. In other words, the ratio between 20Hz to 30Hz in the musical world is Perfect Fifth. The algorithm can generate random notes on the scale based on the fundamental note.

[058] Once the system is assembled in the growing space, it will create tests to understand the right volume or frequencies to use. Non-limiting examples of possible measurements are: a. Sound sweep - lHz-30 kHz - to get a resonance map of the space. By knowing what the resonances are in the space we can reduce or amplify those frequencies in the session. We collect the data using microphone that attached to our system; b. By sending white noise and sound sweep we can also estimate the correct sound volume (db SPL) to use during the session; c. Collecting data using sensors: i) Light conditions - the system play the right ambiance according to the light condition. ii) Timer - by knowing the exact time and date we play the dedicated sound. iii) Temperature - when low temperature is measured, the system generates lower frequencies, which send stronger energy towards the plants and vice versa. iv) Humidity - When humidity is low, the system generates water / rain sounds. When humidity is high, the system generates the sound of the sun frequency, i.e. 126.22HZ. The sound of the sun is the cosmic music. It was recorded by NASA by converting solar radiation waves into sound waves. It can be used to restructure water- in your glass, your body or your plants. This also has the ability to structure and improve the atmosphere in your environment. v) Plant pH vi) Each plant’ s strain may receive designated content based on its geographical origin (the user may enter the strain via remote).

[059] The collected data undergoes Data Analysis. Data analysis is a process of inspecting, cleansing, transforming, and modeling in order to discover useful information regarding the type of sound to be used and duration of emitting same. In specific embodiments of the system of the invention, the data analysis includes at least one of: (i) time domain; (ii) frequency domain; (iii) algorithms; and (iv) distortion.

[060] Time domain is the analysis of mathematical functions, physical signals or time series of economic or environmental data, with respect to time. Time domain provides insights on how a signal changes with time. Time domain includes any of the following: impulse response (i.e. the output when presented with a brief input signal) describing the reaction of the system as a function of, e.g., time); auto-correlation (i.e. the correlation of a signal with a delayed copy of itself as a function of delay, in order to find repeating patterns or a missing fundamental frequency); cross-correlation (i.e. the measure of similarity of two series as a function of the displacement of one relative to the other, for searching a long signal for a shorter, known feature); time envelope; loose particle detection; and automatic delay compensation.

[061] Frequency domain is the analysis of mathematical functions or signals with respect to frequency. Frequency domain shows how much of the signal lies within each given frequency band over a range of frequencies. Frequency domain includes any of the following: FFT & DFT (any size), and Nth octave resolution; Hann, Blackman-Harris and Flat Top windows; auto- spectrum & cross-spectrum; Spectral Scaling: RMS or Power Density; frequency and phase response including harmonics; complex or power averaging; relative or absolute response; Coherent Output Power; Coherence and Non-Coherence; Signal-to-Noise Ratio; Measurement Confidence; and Impedance.

[062] Non-limiting examples of algorithms that can be used according to the invention include: Broadband RMS to measure unfiltered level of an AC or DC signal; Average FFT Spectrum to generate frequency; Time Selective Response (‘Farina” method) to measure free-field and impulse response of fundamental AND harmonics (this includes de-convolved time response and choice of time windows); Heterodyne to measure frequency and phase response with optimal accuracy; Loose particle detection to generate frequency; Multi-tonal generation; A real-time analyzer (RTA) to analyze a spectrum and generate a frequency response; and transfer functions programmed to generate sounds from other type of vibration.

[063] Distortion is the alteration of the original waveform or sound, and includes any one of: THD and Rub & Buzz; Normalized THD and Rub & Buzz distortion (harmonics compared to amplitude of fundamental at measured frequency); THD + Noise; Intermodulation or Difference Frequency; Difference Frequency; and Non-Coherent Distortion.

[064] The system works 24/7 in 365 day cycles, emulates the real weather and environmental conditions, and adjusts the sounds accordingly. In daily mode, the system works in 4 main group cycles: morning - noon - evening - night. In yearly mode, the system creates 4 nature season cycles: Spring, Summer, Fall or Autumn and Winter. In Monthly mode the system focuses on the moon calendar: New, First, Full, Last. [065] In certain embodiments, the system generates frequencies using a built-in synthesizer that can create sin, square, saw, triangular wave oscillator and other complex tones and sounds that can be manipulated and changed in real-time according to the data received from the sensors and microphone. Each wave oscillation can be played and sent to a different speaker individually or to multiple sets of speakers. For example, a first oscillator sends a first sound to a first speaker; a second oscillator sends a second sound to a second speaker, etc.

[066] The system can play the sounds offline, which means that the sounds may be stored in the computer or streamed via the cloud.

[067] RESULTS:

[068] Playing a dual tone sound wave, in the range of 50-250Hz for 5-8 hours, on onion seeds resulted in a 10% higher germination rate. In a study conducted on Salanova® lettuce in hydroponic systems, two types of sound patterns led to better yields. First, a 50-250HZ sound pattern, generated from different types of waveforms, for 5-8 hours, with predefined intervals, resulted in 1) 30% better water usage efficiency (WUE), and 2) lower pH levels, specifically a pH level of 7.8, as opposed to a pH level of 8.4 for a control group. Second, a sound pattern was applied that mixed white noise with a sound that varied over a frequency range of 4-6 kHz, with the frequency varying over that range at a rate of 1 Hz. This pattern resulted in an 8% increase in yield. Increased yields were also seen when the rate at which the frequency in the 4-6 kHz range was varied was a rate of between 0.1 Hz and 30 Hz.

[069] It is also to be understood that the scope of the present invention includes variations and modifications thereof which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description and which are not disclosed in the prior art.

Claims

1. A computerized system for assisting in crop growth, comprising: a. a speaker system comprising: one or more speakers that may produce multiple frequencies, including audible and ultrasonic frequencies; b. a sound library comprising a plurality of digital audio tracks; and c. a computer system comprising: a computer, comprising a processor, a memory, and one or more audio outputs having independent audio channel for each of the one or more speakers, wherein the memory includes instructions that when executed on the processor cause the computer to select one or more of the digital audio tracks to play on the speaker system according to one or more input parameters, including one or more of a type of plant, a time, a date, a season, a temperature, a light intensity, a light color, a humidity level, and a growing stage of a plant.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising at least one of: i) a built-in screen or an external remote/control unit; ii) at least one microphone for system calibration; iii) one or more sensors for collecting data from the plants and/or the surroundings; iv) an amplifier, such as a multi-channel amplifier; and v) a sub-woofer speaker.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the speakers are wired or wireless.

4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the speakers are designed to be placed around, above and/or below the growing surface of the plants/crops.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the computer is connected to a cloud-based processing system, and wherein the one or more input parameters are processed by an application in the cloud-based processing system to determine the one or more audio tracks.

6. The system of claim 1 , which is designed to generate frequencies using electronic or digital oscillator(s).

7. A growing box comprising the system of claim 1.

8. A method for improving the growth of a plant, the method comprising the steps of: a. placing speakers in the growing area of a plant; b. selecting a sound pattern having one or more of the sound characteristics of a frequency, a volume, a source, and an acoustic environment; and c. emitting the selected sound pattern from the speakers.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the plant is a group of plants in a growing area and placement of the speakers includes placement at one or more positions that are on the ground, underground, and over the ground, such that essentially equal energy of the sound pattern is received by all plants in the group.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein the selection of the sound characteristic is based on any one or more of a type of plant, a growing phase, a date, a temperature, a light level, and a humidity.

11. The method of claim 8, wherein selecting the sound pattern comprises receiving a signal from a sensor in the growing area, wherein the signal is previously defined as corresponding to the sound.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the signal is indicative of plant biofeedback, in turn indicative of effectiveness of a previous sound pattern.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein a selection of a subsequent sound characteristic is dependent on the obtained biofeedback.

14. The method of claim 8, wherein selecting the sound pattern comprises selecting a sound predefined to provide insect control of removing unnecessary organisms from the environment of the plant.

15. The method of claim 8, wherein selecting the sound pattern comprises selecting a sound predefined to attract beneficial organisms to the environment of the plant or to the plant itself.

16. The method of claim 8, wherein selecting the sound pattern comprises selecting a dual sound pattern, each of the dual sounds being in a range of 50-250 Hz.

17. The method of claim 8, wherein the sound pattern mixes white noise with a sound that varies over a frequency range of 4-6 kHz, at a rate of 1 hertz.

18. The method of claim 8, wherein the sound pattern mixes white noise with a sound that varies over a frequency range of 4-6 kHz, wherein the rate of variation is a value between 0.1 Hz and 30 Hz.