WO2022096788A1

WO2022096788A1 - An aeroponic farming system and a method

Info

Publication number: WO2022096788A1
Application number: PCT/FI2021/050749
Authority: WO
Inventors: Raine HERMANS
Original assignee: Aeropod Oy
Priority date: 2020-11-06
Filing date: 2021-11-05
Publication date: 2022-05-12
Also published as: FI20206122A1; EP4240141A1; FI130311B; CA3200734A1; EP4240141A4

Abstract

The invention relates to an aeroponic farming system (2) and a method in connection with aeroponic farming for growing tuber plants or root vegetable plants (50) having an aerial shoot (52) and underground root part (54). The system (2) further comprises a lower liquid space (2111) comprising a first growing liquid space (21) arranged to retain first growing liquid (22) and a second growing liquid space (211) arranged to retain second growing liquid (222).

Description

AN AEROPONIC FARMING SYSTEM AND A METHOD

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an aeroponic farming system and more particularly to an aeroponic farming system according to the preamble of claim 1. The present invention further relates to a method for aeroponic farming and more particularly to a method according to preamble of claim 12.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Aeroponic farming is the process of growing plants in an air or mist environment without the use of soil or an aggregate medium, known as geoponics. Aeroponic farming differs from conventional hydroponic farming, known as aquaponics. Unlike hydroponics, which uses a liquid nutrient solution as a growing medium and essential minerals to sustain plant growth, aeroponics is conducted without a growing medium. Accordingly, in aeroponic farming the roots or root part of the plant is not placed or immersed in any solid or liquid growing medium.

The basic principle of aeroponic growing is to grow plants suspended in a closed or semi-closed environment by spraying the dangling roots or the plant with an atomized or sprayed, nutrient rich water solution, meaning growing liquid. The leaves and crown, often called the aerial shoot, extend above and outside the closed environment. The roots of the plant are separated by the plant support structure to which the plant is supported such that the roots extend from the plant support structure to the closed environment. Often, foam or other elastic material is compressed around the lower stem or the plant and inserted into an opening in the plans support structure.

During the aeroponic growing process the roots of the plant are sprayed with the growing liquid at certain intervals in the growing chamber which provides the closed environment. Excessive growing liquid flows or drops to bottom of the growing chamber from the bottom of the growing chamber the excessive growing liquid may be drained by utilizing gravity.

The plants need several different essential minerals to grow well. A drawback is that some of the needed minerals precipitate if they are mixed in same liquid.

Microorganisms such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, spores, unicellular eukaryotic organisms in growing liquid may create solid particles.

The solid particles in growing liquid are harmful for aeroponic farming.

One of the problems associated with the prior art is that there is no efficient system or method for reducing solid particles in growing liquid.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide an aeroponic farming system and method for aeroponic farming so as to overcome or at least alleviate the prior art disadvantages.

The objects of the invention are achieved by an aeroponic farming system which is characterized by what is stated in the independent claim 1. The objects of the invention are further achieved by a method for aeroponic farming which is characterized by what is stated in the independent claim 12.

The preferred embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the dependent claims.

The invention is based on the idea of providing an aeroponic farming system for growing plants having an aerial shoot and underground root part. The aeroponic farming system comprises a plant support base for supporting the plant, the plant support base comprises a support opening arranged to support the plant such that the plant extends through the plant support base via the support opening and such that the aerial shoot is arranged on a first side of the plant support base and the root part is arranged on a second side the plant support base. The aeroponic farming system further comprises a growing chamber provided on the second side of the plant support base. The growing chamber comprises growing chamber walls defining a closed chamber space. The aeroponic farming system further comprises a lower liquid space comprising a first growing liquid space arranged to retain first growing liquid and a second growing liquid space arranged to retain second growing liquid. The aeroponic farming system further comprises a spraying arrangement arranged to spray first growing liquid and second growing liquid inside the closed chamber space of the growing chamber. The aeroponic farming system further comprises a partitioning wall arranged to divide the closed chamber space into an upper growing space and the lower liquid space and discharge excessive first growing liquid sprayed into the upper growing space from the upper growing space to the first growing liquid space and arranged to discharge excessive second growing liquid sprayed into the upper growing space from the upper growing space to the second growing liquid space.

In one embodiment, the aeroponic farming system comprising a plant support base for supporting the plant, the plant support base comprises a support opening arranged to support the plant such that the plant extends through the plant support base via the support opening and such that the aerial shoot is arranged on a first side of the plant support base and the root part is arranged on a second side the plant support base, a growing chamber provided on the second side of the plant support base, the growing chamber comprising growing chamber walls defining a closed chamber space, a partitioning wall arranged to divide the closed chamber space into an upper growing space and a lower liquid space, the aeroponic farming system further comprises the lower liquid space comprising a first growing liquid space arranged to retain first growing liquid and a second growing liquid space arranged to retain second growing liquid, a spraying arrangement arranged to spray first growing liquid and second growing liquid inside the closed chamber space of the growing chamber into the upper growing space, and the partitioning wall is arranged to discharge excessive first growing liquid sprayed into the upper growing space from the upper growing space to the first growing liquid space and discharge excessive second growing liquid sprayed into the upper growing space from the upper growing space to the second growing liquid space.

In one embodiment of the invention, the partitioning wall is made of liquid impermeable material.

That simplifies discharging excessive first and second growing liquid sprayed into the upper growing space from the upper growing space to the first growing liquid space and the second growing liquid space.

In one embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system further comprises a lower liquid space wall arranged to divide the lower liquid space to the first growing liquid space and the second growing liquid space.

That simplifies a structure of the aeroponic farming system.

In one embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system further comprises a first separate growing liquid reservoir provided to the first growing liquid space and arranged to retain first growing liquid.

That simplifies a structure of the aeroponic farming system.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system further comprises a second separate growing liquid reservoir provided to the second growing liquid space and arranged to retain second growing liquid.

That simplifies a structure of the aeroponic farming system.

In another alternative embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system further comprises a first separate growing liquid reservoir provided to the first growing liquid space and arranged to retain first growing liquid and a second separate growing liquid reservoir provided to the second growing liquid space and arranged to retain second growing liquid.

That simplifies a structure of the aeroponic farming system.

In one embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system further comprises a water supply arranged supply water to the spraying arrangement.

That enables purifying the spraying system.

In alternative embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system further comprises a water supply arranged supply water to the spraying arrangement, and the water supply is connected to a water supply network

That enables purifying the spraying system.

In another alternative embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system further comprises a water supply arranged supply water to the spraying arrangement, and the water supply comprises a water reservoir arranged to retain water.

That enables purifying the spraying system.

In a further alternative embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system further comprises a water supply arranged supply water to the spraying arrangement, the water supply comprises a water reservoir arranged to retain water, and the water reservoir is connected to a water supply network.

That enables purifying the spraying system.

In one embodiment of the invention, the spraying arrangement comprises one or more first growing liquid nozzles arranged to spray first growing liquid and second growing liquid inside the closed chamber space of the growing chamber.

That simplifies a structure of the aeroponic farming system.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the spraying arrangement comprises one or more first growing liquid nozzles arranged to spray first growing liquid, second growing liquid and water inside the closed chamber space of the growing chamber.

That simplifies a structure of the aeroponic farming system.

In another alternative embodiment of the invention, the spraying arrangement comprises one or more first growing liquid nozzles arranged to spray first growing liquid and one or more second growing liquid nozzles arranged to spray second growing liquid inside the closed chamber space of the growing chamber.

That separates spraying of first and second growing liquid and reduces need for cleaning the first growing liquid nozzles.

In a further alternative embodiment of the invention, the spraying arrangement comprises one or more first growing liquid nozzles arranged to spray first growing liquid and water, and one or more second growing liquid nozzles arranged to spray second growing liquid and water inside the closed chamber space of the growing chamber.

That provides cleaning of the first and second growing liquid nozzles.

In one embodiment of the invention, the growing chamber walls being non-transparent.

That provides a dark environment for tubers and thus, the tubers do not comprise alkaloids.

In one embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system comprises a growing liquid separation arrangement arranged to separate and discharge excessive first growing liquid sprayed into the upper growing space from the upper growing space to the first growing liquid space or to the first growing liquid reservoir in the first growing liquid space and arranged to separate and discharge excessive second growing liquid sprayed into the upper growing space from the upper growing space to the second growing liquid space or to the second growing liquid reservoir in the second growing liquid space .

That simplifies a structure of the aeroponic farming system.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system comprises a growing liquid separation arrangement comprising a tilting device arranged to tilt the partitioning wall to a first tilted position to discharge excessive first growing liquid to the first growing liquid space or to the first growing liquid reservoir and arranged to tilt the partitioning wall to a second tilted position to discharge excessive second growing liquid sprayed into the upper growing space from the upper growing space to the second growing liquid space to the second growing liquid reservoir.

That simplifies a structure of the aeroponic farming system.

In another alternative embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system comprises a growing liquid separation arrangement comprising a first discharge connection and a second discharge connection provided to the partitioning wall, the first discharge connection being arranged to discharge excessive first growing liquid sprayed into the upper growing space from the upper growing space to the first growing liquid space or to the first growing liquid reservoir in the first growing liquid space and the second discharge connection provided to the partitioning wall between the upper growing space and the second growing liquid space, the second discharge connection being arranged to discharge excessive second growing liquid sprayed into the upper growing space from the upper growing space to the second growing liquid space or to the second growing liquid reservoir in the second growing liquid space

That simplifies a structure of the aeroponic farming system.

In a further another alternative embodiment of the invention, the partitioning wall is made of liquid impermeable plate material or liquid impermeable fabric material, the aeroponic farming system comprises a growing liquid separation arrangement provided to the partitioning wall, and the growing liquid separation arrangement is arranged to separate and discharge excessive first growing liquid sprayed into the upper growing space from the upper growing space to the first growing liquid space or to the first growing liquid reservoir in the first growing liquid space and arranged to separate and discharge excessive second growing liquid sprayed into the upper growing space from the upper growing space to the second growing liquid space or to the second growing liquid reservoir in the second growing liquid space.

That simplifies a structure of the aeroponic farming system.

In an yet alternative embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system comprises a growing liquid separation arrangement arranged to separate and discharge excessive first growing liquid sprayed into the upper growing space from the upper growing space to the first growing liquid space or to the first growing liquid reservoir in the first growing liquid space and arranged to separate and discharge excessive second growing liquid sprayed into the upper growing space from the upper growing space to the second growing liquid space or to the second growing liquid reservoir in the second growing liquid space.

That simplifies a structure of the aeroponic farming system.

In an yet another alternative embodiment of the invention, the partitioning wall is made of liquid impermeable material and the partitioning wall is provided with a growing liquid separation arrangement arranged to separate first growing liquid and second growing liquid.

That simplifies a structure of the aeroponic farming system.

In an yet another further alternative, embodiment of the invention, the partitioning wall is made of liquid impermeable material and the aeroponic farming system comprises a growing liquid separation arrangement arranged to separate first growing liquid and second growing liquid.

That simplifies a structure of the aeroponic farming system.

In one embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system comprises a sanitizing arrangement comprising a sanitizing device arranged to provide the aeroponic farming system with a sterilant.

That reduces harmful solid particles in the aeroponic farming system.

In one embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system comprises a sanitizing arrangement comprising a first sterilant device arranged to provide first growing liquid with a sterilant.

That reduces harmful solid particles in the aeroponic farming system.

In an alternative embodiment, the aeroponic farming system comprises a sanitizing arrangement comprising a second sterilant device arranged to provide second growing liquid with a sterilant.

That reduces harmful solid particles in the aeroponic farming system

In another alternative embodiment, the aeroponic farming system comprises a sanitizing arrangement comprising a first sterilant device arranged to provide first growing liquid with a sterilant and a second sterilant device arranged to provide second growing liquid with a sterilant.

That reduces harmful solid particles in the aeroponic farming system.

In one embodiment of the invention, the sanitizing device is arranged to release ozone into water for sanitizing the aeroponic farming system.

That reduces harmful solid particles in the aeroponic farming system.

In one embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system comprises a first growing liquid circulation arrangement arranged to supply first growing liquid from the first growing liquid space to the one or more first growing liquid nozzles.

That reduces use of fertilizers.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system comprises a second growing liquid circulation arrangement arranged to supply second growing liquid from the second lower liquid space to the one or more second growing liquid nozzles.

That reduces use of fertilizers.

In another alternative embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system comprises a first growing liquid circulation arrangement arranged to supply first growing liquid from the first growing liquid space to the one or more first growing liquid nozzles and a second growing liquid circulation arrangement arranged to supply second growing liquid from the second lower liquid space to the one or more second growing liquid nozzles.

That reduces use of fertilizers.

In one embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system comprises a synchronizing device arranged to synchronize spraying first growing liquid and second growing liquid.

That reduces use of fertilizers.

In another embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system comprises a synchronizing device arranged to synchronize spraying first growing liquid, water and second growing liquid.

That reduces use of fertilizers.

In one embodiment, the first and second growing liquid nozzles are arranged inside the closed chamber space of the growing chamber.

In one embodiment, the first and second growing liquid are water based liquids comprising nutrients, such as nitrogen and calcium. This promotes a growth of the plants.

In one embodiment, the first growing liquid comprises nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus, and second growing liquid comprises calcium. Thus, calcium in second growing liquid does not precipitate with nitrogen, potassium or phosphorus in first growing liquid.

In one embodiment, the aeroponic farming system comprises a sanitizing arrangement comprising a sterilant arranged to growing liquid.

This further reduces growth of microorganisms on surfaces of the aeroponic farming system and thus, reduces blocking of the nozzle heads and the growing liquid pump.

In one embodiment, the aeroponic farming system comprises a sanitizing arrangement comprising a sanitizing device arranged to provide first growing liquid and second growing liquid with a sterilant.

That further reduces growth of microorganisms on surfaces of the aeroponic farming system and thus, reduces blocking of the nozzle heads and the growing liquid pump.

In one embodiment, the sterilant comprises a surfactant.

Surfactants are compounds that lower the surface tension (or interfacial tension) between two liquids, between a gas and a liquid, or between a liquid and a solid. Surfactants both eliminates, removes, kills, or deactivates all forms of microorganisms present in growing liquid and increases water absorbed by the roots. The surfactants also reduce required growing liquid and thus less energy is needed for pumping the growing liquid.

In one embodiment, the sterilant comprises a biodegradable surfactant.

Saponins which are found in various plant species are an example of the biodegradable surfactant. Biodegradable surfactants are not harmful for the plants.

In one embodiment, the sterilant comprises a bio-activator.

The bio-activator comprises biologically active molecules which eliminates, removes, kills, or deactivates all forms of microorganisms present in growing liquid. An example of the bio-activator is naturally occurring microorganisms which stimulates the bacteria in growing liquid so that the waste quickly decomposes.

That further reduces growth of microorganisms in first band second growing liquid and on surfaces of the aeroponic farming system and thus, reduces blocking of the nozzle heads and the growing liquid pump.

In one embodiment, the sterilant comprises ozone.

Ozone effectively eliminates, removes, kills, or deactivates all forms of microorganisms present in growing liquid.

In one embodiment, the sanitizing arrangement eliminates, removes, kills, or deactivates at least 99 % of microorganisms.

In one embodiment, the aeroponic farming system comprises a sanitizing arrangement comprising a sanitizing device arranged to release ozone into water for sanitizing the aeroponic farming system.

Ozone effectively eliminates, removes, kills, or deactivates all forms of microorganisms present in the aeroponic farming system. Thus, there is less culture on surfaces of the aeroponic farming system.

In one embodiment, the sanitizing arrangement eliminates, removes, kills, or deactivates at least 99,9 % of microorganisms.

In one embodiment, the synchronizing device is arranged to synchronize the supply of growing liquid such that the supply of first growing liquid and second growing liquid is cyclic and first and second growing liquid are sprayed in different time.

That reduces use of fertilizers.

In one embodiment, the first growing liquid circulation arrangement comprises a first ultrasonic circulation pump arranged to provide first growing liquid through the one or more first growing liquid nozzles finely suspended in air.

That promotes a growth of small roots and thus the plants require less growing liquid.

In one embodiment, the second growing liquid circulation arrangement comprises a second ultrasonic circulation pump arranged to provide second growing liquid through the one or more second growing liquid nozzles finely suspended in air.

In one embodiment, the aeroponic farming system further comprises a first growing liquid aerator in connection with the first liquid space or with the first growing liquid reservoir for reducing an amount of culture in first growing liquid. In other words the first growing liquid aerator mixes air with first growing liquid. Typically, the first growing liquid aerator is used to add oxygen to growing liquid.

In one embodiment, the aeroponic farming system further comprises a second growing liquid aerator in connection with the second liquid space or with the second growing liquid reservoir for reducing an amount of culture in second growing liquid. In other words, the second growing liquid aerator mixes air with second growing liquid. Typically, the second growing liquid aerator is used to add oxygen to growing liquid.

In one embodiment, the sanitizing arrangement is arranged in connection with the first and the second growing liquid circulation arrangement.

In an alternative embodiment, the sanitizing arrangement is arranged in connection with the first growing liquid space and with second growing liquid space.

In one embodiment, the growing chamber comprises a first and a second growing liquid reservoir inside the growing chamber for storing growing liquid inside the closed chamber space of the growing chamber.

In one embodiment, the first and the second growing liquid reservoir are a first and a second separate reservoir or container arranged inside the closed chamber of the growing chamber.

In another embodiment, the first and the second growing liquid reservoir are formed by the chamber walls of the growing chamber. Thus, the chamber walls are provided waterproof such that the growing liquid reservoir is formed inside the growing chamber. In one embodiment the sanitizing arrangement comprises a growing liquid filter arranged between the partitioning wall and the first growing liquid space.

That reduces blocking of the first nozzle heads and the first growing liquid pump.

In one embodiment the sanitizing arrangement comprises a growing liquid filter arranged between the partitioning wall and the second growing liquid space.

That reduces blocking of the second nozzle heads and the second growing liquid pump.

In one embodiment the growing liquid filter covers more than 80 % of a horizontal area of the partitioning wall.

This reduces blocking of the growing liquid filter.

In one embodiment the growing liquid filter comprises a filter layer with a rating between 0.5-100 micron.

This further reduces blocking of the nozzle heads and the a growing liquid pump.

In one embodiment the growing liquid filter comprises an active carbon filter.

This removes harmful substances from growing liquid and further reduces blocking of the nozzle heads.

In one embodiment the sanitizing arrangement comprises a first ultraviolet light radiator arranged to radiate ultraviolet light to first growing liquid.

In one embodiment the sanitizing arrangement comprises a second ultraviolet light radiator arranged to radiate ultraviolet light to second growing liquid.

In one embodiment the sanitizing arrangement comprises a first growing liquid filter for clarifying first growing liquid and the sanitizing device comprising a first ultraviolet light radiator arranged to radiate ultraviolet light to clarified first growing liquid.

In one embodiment the sanitizing arrangement comprises a second growing liquid filter for clarifying second growing liquid and the sanitizing device comprising a second ultraviolet light radiator arranged to radiate ultraviolet light to clarified second growing liquid.

In one embodiment, the partitioning wall is made of liquid impermeable plate material or liquid impermeable fabric material and provided with one or more first discharge connections allowing excessive growing liquid flow through the partitioning wall from the upper growing space to the lower liquid space. In this embodiment, the excessive growing liquid is guided through the first discharge connection^] in the partitioning wall form the upper growing space to the lower liquid space for discharging the excessive growing liquid from the upper growing space. This provides a controlled discharge of the growing liquid.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the aeroponic farming system further comprises a first circulation pump inlet filter.

That reduces an amount of solid particles in first growing liquid.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the aeroponic farming system further comprises a first circulation pump outlet filter.

That reduces an amount of solid particles in first growing liquid.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the aeroponic farming system further comprises a second circulation pump inlet filter.

That reduces an amount of solid particles in second growing liquid.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the aeroponic farming system further comprises a second circulation pump outlet filter.

That reduces an amount of solid particles in second growing liquid.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the thermal adjustment device is arranged to adjust the temperature of the first growing liquid in the first growing liquid reservoir.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the thermal adjustment device is arranged to adjust the temperature of the second growing liquid in the second growing liquid reservoir.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the thermal adjustment device is arranged to adjust the temperature of the first growing liquid in the first growing liquid reservoir and the temperature of the second growing liquid in the second growing liquid reservoir.

Accordingly, the temperature inside the growing chamber may be upon pumping or supplying first and second growing liquid via the spraying arrangement.

The first and the second circulation pump are in some embodiments arranged inside the growing liquid reservoir. In alternative embodiments, the first and the second circulation pump are in some embodiments arranged outside the growing liquid reservoir.

When the thermal adjustment device is provided in connection with or to the growing liquid reservoir the circulated and sprayed growing liquid may be already in desired temperature and the thermal adjustment device in the growing liquid circulation arrangement may be omitted, but may also be included in some embodiments.

The thermal adjustment device is a heating device or a cooling device or a combined heating and cooling device.

In some embodiments, the aeroponic farming system comprises a first thermal adjustment device and a second thermal adjustment device.

In one embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system further comprises a first inlet arrangement.

That eases adding first growing liquid to the system.

In one embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system further comprises a second inlet arrangement.

That eases adding second growing liquid to the system.

In one embodiment, the first thermal adjustment device is arranged in connection with the first inlet arrangement.

That eases a temperature control of the system.

In one embodiment, the first thermal adjustment device is arranged in connection with the second inlet arrangement.

That eases a temperature control of the system.

In one embodiment, the first thermal adjustment device is arranged in connection with the second inlet arrangement and the second inlet arrangement.

That eases a temperature control of the system.

In one embodiment, the second thermal adjustment device is arranged in connection with or to the first growing liquid reservoir

That eases a temperature control of the system.

In one embodiment, the second thermal adjustment device is arranged in connection with or to the second growing liquid reservoir.

That eases a temperature control of the system.

In one embodiment, the second thermal adjustment device is arranged in connection with or to the second and the first growing liquid reservoir.

That eases a temperature control of the system.

The first growing liquid inlet arrangement or the first growing liquid supply channel may be connected to the one or more first growing liquid nozzles or to the first growing liquid reservoir.

That eases a temperature control of the system. The second growing liquid inlet arrangement or the second growing liquid supply channel may be connected to the one or more second growing liquid nozzles or to the second growing liquid reservoir.

That eases a temperature control of the system.

Relating to the above mentioned embodiments with the first and the second thermal adjustment device, several different embodiments may be provided. In one embodiment, the first thermal adjustment device is a heating device and the second thermal adjustment device is a cooling device. In another embodiment, the first thermal adjustment device is a cooling device and the second thermal adjustment device is a heating device. In a further embodiment, the first thermal adjustment device is a heating device and the second thermal adjustment device is a heating device. In an alternative embodiment, the first thermal adjustment device is a cooling device and the second thermal adjustment device is a cooling device.

Having two thermal adjustment devices enables controlling the temperature of the first and second growing liquid in detail and also providing different temperatures in different parts of the aeroponic farming system. Further, having a heating device and a cooling device enables controlling the temperature such that the temperature of the first and second growing liquid may be both increased and decreased depending on the need.

In one embodiment, the growing chamber is provided with a thermal insulation arranged to thermally insulate the closed chamber space.

In an alternative embodiment, the thermal insulation or a thermal insulation layer is provided to the growing chamber walls.

The thermal insulation of the growing chamber enables maintaining desired temperature inside the growing chamber and also maintaining desired temperature of the growing liquid inside the growing chamber. Effects of temperature variations in the surroundings of the aeroponic farming system may be minimized inside the growing chamber. Further, efficiency of the aeroponic farming system may be increased as the thermal energy escaping from the growing chamber is minimized or decreased.

The present invention relates also to a method for aeroponic farming of plants having an aerial shoot and an underground root part. The aeroponic farming being carried with an aeroponic farming system comprising a growing chamber having growing chamber walls defining a closed chamber space for accommodating the root part of the plant and a lower liquid space comprising a first growing liquid space arranged to retain first growing liquid and a second growing liquid space arranged to retain second growing liquid. The method comprises spraying first growing liquid in the closed chamber space to the root part of the plant, collecting excessive sprayed first growing liquid inside the closed chamber space of the growing chamber to first growing liquid space, spraying second growing liquid in the closed chamber space to the root part of the plant, and collecting excessive sprayed second growing liquid inside the closed chamber space of the growing chamber to the second growing liquid space.

In one embodiment, the aeroponic farming being carried with an aeroponic farming system comprising a growing chamber having growing chamber walls defining a closed chamber space for accommodating the root part of the plant. The aeroponic farming system further comprises a partitioning wall arranged to divide the closed chamber space into an upper growing space and a lower liquid space , and the lower liquid space comprising a first growing liquid space arranged to retain first growing liquid and a second growing liquid space arranged to retain second growing liquid. The aeroponic farming system further comprises a plant support base for supporting the plant, and the upper growing space is provided between the plant support base and the partitioning wall for enclosing the root part of the plant. The aeroponic farming system further comprises a spraying arrangement arranged to spray first growing liquid and second growing liquid and a water supply arranged supply water to the spraying arrangement. The method comprises the following processing steps carried out successively:

- spraying first growing liquid in the upper growing space of the closed chamber space to the root part of the plant;

- collecting excessive sprayed first growing liquid inside the upper growing space of the closed chamber space of the growing chamber to first growing liquid space;

- spraying water to the root part of the plant with the spraying arrangement ;

- collecting excessive sprayed water inside the upper growing space of the closed chamber space of the growing chamber to the first growing liquid space;

- spraying second growing liquid in the upper growing space of the closed chamber space to the root part of the plant;

- collecting excessive sprayed second growing liquid inside the upper growing space of the closed chamber space of the growing chamber to the second growing liquid space;

- spraying water to the root part of the plant with the spraying arrangement ; and - collecting excessive sprayed water inside the upper growing space of the closed chamber space of the growing chamber to the second growing liquid space.

In one embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system further comprises a spraying arrangement arranged to spray first growing liquid and second growing liquid, the method further comprises circulating the collected first growing liquid from first growing liquid space to the spraying arrangement and circulating the collected second growing liquid from the second growing liquid space to the spraying arrangement.

That reduces use of fertilizers.

In one embodiment of the invention, the aeroponic farming system further comprises a water supply arranged supply water to the spraying arrangement, and the method further comprises spraying water to the root part of the plant with the spraying arrangement.

That enables adjusting a concentration of the first and second growing liquid.

In one embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises the following processing steps carried out successively:

- spraying first growing liquid in the closed chamber space to the root part of the plant;

- collecting excessive sprayed first growing liquid inside the closed chamber space of the growing chamber to first growing liquid space;

- spraying water to the root part of the plant with the spraying arrangement;

- collecting excessive sprayed water inside the closed chamber space of the growing chamber to the first growing liquid space;

- spraying second growing liquid in the closed chamber space to the root part of the plant;

- collecting excessive sprayed second growing liquid inside the closed chamber space of the growing chamber to the second growing liquid space;

- spraying water (to the root part of the plant with the spraying arrangement; and

- collecting excessive sprayed water inside the closed chamber space of the growing chamber to the second growing liquid space.

That reduces harmful solid particles in the aeroponic farming system.

In one embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises sanitizing first growing liquid. That reduces harmful solid particles in the aeroponic farming system.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises sanitizing water.

That reduces harmful solid particles in the aeroponic farming system.

In another alternative embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises sanitizing second growing liquid.

That reduces harmful solid particles in the aeroponic farming system.

In a further another alternative embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises sanitizing first growing liquid and second growing liquid.

That reduces harmful solid particles in the aeroponic farming system.

In a yet further another alternative embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises sanitizing first growing liquid, second growing liquid and water.

That reduces harmful solid particles in the aeroponic farming system.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises filtering first growing liquid with a growing liquid filter for creating clarified first growing liquid and sanitizing the clarified first growing liquid with a sterilant.

That reduces harmful solid particles in the aeroponic farming system.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises filtering second growing liquid with a growing liquid filter for creating clarified second growing liquid and sanitizing the clarified second growing liquid with a sterilant,

That reduces harmful solid particles in the aeroponic farming system.

In one embodiment, the method comprises mixing air with first and second growing liquid with an aerator in the first and the second growing liquid space for reducing an amount of culture in first and second growing liquid.

According to the above mentioned, the method for aeroponic farming is carried out with an aeroponic farming system as described above.

An advantage of the invention is that it enables using and spraying in an aeroponic farming system such minerals which precipitate when they are mixed in same liquid.

Furthermore, the invention enables circulating growing liquid such that microorganisms present in growing liquid does not prevent spraying growing liquid.

Furthermore, the invention enables reducing growth of microorganisms on surfaces of aeroponic farming system.

Furthermore, the invention enables improving utilization of growing liquids.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is described in detail by means of specific embodiments with reference to the enclosed drawings, in which

Figure 1 shows schematically an aeroponic growing system according one embodiment to the present invention;

Figure 2 shows schematically a side view of the aeroponic growing system of figure 1;

Figure 3 shows schematically an end view of the aeroponic growing system of figure 1;

Figure 4 shows schematically a plant support base according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 5, 6, 7, 8a, 8b, 9, 10a and 10b show schematically different embodiments of the aeroponic farming system according to the present invention;

Figure 11a shows schematically a first growing liquid space according to one embodiment of the invention;

Figure lib shows schematically a second growing liquid space according to one embodiment of the invention;

Figure 12 shows schematically one embodiment of a sanitizing arrangement of the aeroponic farming system according to the present invention; and

Figure 13 shows schematically one embodiment of the aeroponic farming system according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Figure 1 shows schematically one embodiment of an aeroponic farming system 2. The aeroponic farming system 2 comprises a plant support base 4 to which plants 50 are supported. The aeroponic farming system 2 further comprises an upper plant support 8, 10 provided above, or on a first side, of the plant support base 4. The aeroponic farming system 2 further comprises growing chamber 6 provided under, or on a second side, of the plant support base 4.

The plant support base 4 comprises a plant support surface and may be provided as plant support plane or plant support plate or plant support layer.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, the plant support base 4 is arranged substantially horizontally. The upper plant support 8, 10 is provided in vertical direction above the plant support base 4. The growing chamber 6 is provided in vertical direction under the plant support base 4.

It should be noted, that in alternative embodiments the plant support base 4 may be arranged in angle to the horizontal direction or inclined or even in vertical direction. Therefore, the upper plant support 8, 10 is provided on the first side of the plant support base 4 and the growing chamber 6 is provided on the second side of the plant support base 4.

The upper plant support 8, 10 and the growing chamber 6 are arranged on opposite sides the plant support base.

Figure 2 shows schematically a side view of the aeroponic farming system 2 of figure 1, plants 50 supported to the aeroponic farming system 2 and the structure of the growing chamber 6 inside the growing chamber 6.

The plant 50 comprise an aerial shoot 52, or stem. The aerial shoot 52 means upper part of the plant 50 growing on or above ground and receiving light in natural growing environment. The plant 50 further comprises a root part 54, or roots. The root part 54 means lower part of the plant growing underground and not receiving light in natural growing environment. Accordingly, the root part 54 is growing in the soil of the ground and the aerial shoot 52 extends from the ground.

As shown in figure 2, the root part 54 of the plant 50 comprises tubers 56 which may be potatoes, yams, sweet potatoes or the like. Further, the plant 50 may be root vegetable plant and the root part 54 may be formed as a root vegetable.

The aeroponic farming system 2 or method for aeroponic farming according to the present invention are most suitable for tuber plants and root vegetable plants. However, the aeroponic farming system 2 and method may also be used for farming any other plants having the root part 54 and the aerial shoot 52.

The plant support base 4 comprises one or more support openings or receptacles 40 providing a through-hole through plant support base 4. The support openings 40 extend through the plant support base from the first side to the second side of the plant support base 4.

The plant support base 4 is arranged to support the plant 50 such that the plant extends through the plant support base 4 via the support opening 40 and such that the aerial shoot 52 is arranged on the first side of the plant support base 4 and the root part 54 is arranged on a second side the plant support base. Thus, in figure 2, the aerial shoot 52 extends from the plant support base 4 above the plant support base 4 and the root part 54 extends from the plant support base 4 under the plant support base 4.

The upper plant support 7 , 8, 10 is provided on the first upper side of the plant support base 4 for supporting the aerial shoot 52 of the plant 50. Accordingly, the upper plant support 7, 8, 10 comprises support members 7, 8, 10 arranged to support aerial shoot 52 of the plant 50.

In the embodiments of figures, the upper plant support 7, 8, 10 is connected, attached or supported to the aeroponic farming system 2 or the plant support base 4 or the growing chamber 6. Accordingly, the upper plant support 7,

8. 10 is integral part of the aeroponic farming system 2.

In alternatively embodiments, the upper plant support 7, 8, 10 is a separate structure which is provided separate from the plant support base 4 and the growing chamber 6 and separate from other structures of the aeroponic farming system 2. The separate upper support 7, 8, 10 is in some embodiments surrounding the plant support base 4 and/or the growing chamber 6. Thus, the upper plant support 7, 8, 10 is supported and extending from or standing on a floor or ground. Alternatively, the upper plant support 7, 8, 10 is arranged above the plant support base 4 and/or the growing chamber. Thus, the upper plant support

7. 8. 10 is attached or supported to a ceiling or other structures of building or room (not shown).

The aerial shoot 52 of the plant 50 extends from the plant support base 4 and is arranged to an aerial growing space or aerial growing environment 24. Properties of the aerial growing space 24 may be controlled during aeroponic farming.

In the embodiments of the figures, the upper plant support and the aerial growing space 24 are formed as open structures. Accordingly, light, humidity and gases may enter the aerial growing space 24 from the surroundings of the aeroponic farming system 2. In alternative embodiments, the upper plant support 7, 8, 10 is provided as upper chamber or is arranged to form the upper chamber (not shown). The upper chamber provides a closed upper chamber having closed aerial growing space 24 into which the aerial shoot 52 of the plant extends from the plant support base 4. The plant support base 4 forms one wall, for example a bottom wall, of the upper chamber. The aerial shoot 52 grows inside the closed upper space 24.

The growing chamber 6 is provided under the plant support base 4, or on the second side of the plant support base 4. The growing chamber 6 comprises growing chamber walls 12, 13 forming a closed growing chamber. The growing chamber 6 further comprises growing chamber door 3, as shown in figure 1. The growing chamber door 3 may be arranged in closed position and open position. In the closed position of the growing chamber door 3, the growing chamber 6 forms a closed chamber space inside the growing chamber 6. In the open position of the growing chamber door 3, the inner growing chamber space is accessible via opening of the growing chamber door 3.

The plant support base 4 forms the growing chamber top wall or at least part of the growing chamber top wall. Thus, the root part 54 of the plant 50 extends from the plant support base 4 and the support opening 40 thereof into the closed growing chamber 6, as shown in figure 2.

The growing chamber 6 is provided and arranged directly below or adjacent the plant support base 4.

The growing chamber walls 12, 13, 4 define a closed chamber space inside the growing chamber 6.

In one embodiment, the growing chamber walls 12, 13, 4 are further made of non-transparent material or they comprise a layer of non-transparent material. Accordingly, the growing chamber walls 12, 13 4 provide a dark atmosphere inside the growing chamber 6 such that light cannot enter inside growing chamber 6 from surroundings of the aeroponic farming system 2. Thus, the growing chamber walls 12, 13, 4 are non-transparent.

The growing chamber 6 and the growing chamber walls 12, 13, 4 may be formed from any suitable material. Preferably, the growing chamber is made of waterproof material or comprises a waterproof layer and/or light barrier layer or some other suitable material layers.

In one embodiment, the growing chamber 6 and the growing chamber walls 12, 13, 4 are at least partly made of microfiber cellulose material, biocomposite material or some other composite material or biodegradable material. Biocomposite materials are composite material formed by a matrix (resin) and a reinforcement of natural fibers. Microfibre cellulose materials comprise nanostructured cellulose comprising nanosized cellulose fibrils. Typical fibril widths are 5-20 nanometers with a wide range of lengths, typically several micrometers.

The growing chamber 6 may be a moulded element such that the side walls 12, bottom wall 13 and possibly also the plant support base 4 form one integral element. The growing chamber 6 is provided with thermal insulation 14 for insulating the inner space of the growing chamber 6 thermally from the surroundings of the aeroponic farming system 2.

In the embodiment of figure 2, the thermal insulation 14 is provided to the growing chamber walls 12, 13, 4. The thermal insulation 14 may be a characteristic of the material of the growing chamber walls 12, 13, 4. Thus, the thermal insulation is integral part of the growing chamber walls 12, 13, 4.

Alternatively, the thermal insulation or thermal insulation layer 14 is provided to the growing chamber walls 12, 13, 4. In one embodiment, the thermal insulation 14 is a separate insulation layer provided on the inner surface or outer surface or inside the growing chamber walls 12, 13, 4. In another embodiment, the thermal insulation 14 or thermal insulation layer is provided inside the growing chamber walls 12, 13, 4 between the inner surface and outer surface of the growing chamber walls 12, 13, 4.

As shown in figure 2, the growing chamber 6 and the growing chamber walls 12, 13, 4 define a closed growing chamber space inside the growing chamber 6. The growing chamber further comprises a partitioning wall 16 arranged inside the growing chamber 6. The partitioning wall 16 is arranged to divide the closed growing chamber space into an upper growing space 20 and a lower liquid space 2111. The partitioning wall 16 is arranged between the plant support base 4 and the bottom wall 13 of the growing chamber 6 such that the partitioning wall 16 divides the growing chamber space to the upper growing space 20 and the lower liquid space 2111 in the direction between the plant support base 4 and the bottom wall 13 of the growing chamber 6.

The lower liquid space 2111 comprising a first growing liquid space 21 arranged to retain first growing liquid 22 and a second growing liquid space 211 arranged to retain second growing liquid 222.

A partitioning wall 16 is arranged to discharge excessive first growing liquid 22 sprayed into the upper growing space 20 from the upper growing space 20 to the first growing liquid space 21 and discharge excessive second growing liquid 222 sprayed into the upper growing space 20 from the upper growing space 20 to the second growing liquid space 211.

The partitioning wall 16 extends between the side walls 12 of the growing chamber 6. The partitioning wall 16 is preferably supported or connected to side walls 12.

In the embodiment of figure 2, the partitioning wall 16 extends in horizontal direction. Further, the partitioning wall 16 extends parallel to the plant support base 4.

Accordingly, the upper growing space 20 is provided between the plant support base 4 and the partitioning wall 16 for enclosing the root part 54 for of the plant 50.

The lower liquid space 2111 is provided between the partitioning sheet 16 and a bottom wall 13 of the growing chamber 66.

In one embodiment, the aeroponic farming system 5 further comprises a lower liquid space wall 2112 arranged to divide the lower liquid space 2111 to the first growing liquid space 21 and the second growing liquid space 211.

The lower liquid space wall 2112 is made of waterproof or liquid proof material. The side walls 12 and the bottom wall 13 or the growing chamber walls 12, 13, 4 are made of waterproof or liquid proof material such that the growing chamber 6 forms containers or growing liquid reservoirs for storing or retaining first growing liquid 22 and a second growing liquid 222. First growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222 are further sprayed to the root part 54 of the plant 50. Typically, first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222 comprise different chemical substances which would precipitate if they were mixed. One example, is calcium which precipitates when mixed with other fertilizers such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.

Figure 3 shows schematically an end view of the aeroponic farming system 2 of figure 2.

In the embodiment of figures 2 and 3, the upper plant support comprises vertical support elements 7, 8, 9 and horizontal support elements 10, 11 for supporting the aerial shoot 52 of the plant 50. The aerial shoot 52 may be attached or connected to the upper plant support for supporting and keeping the aerial shoot 52 in upright position. As the root part 54 is not in soil or ground, the root part cannot provide necessary support for the aerial shoot 52.

It should be noted that the upper plant support may be implemented in various ways for supporting the aerial shoot 52. Thus, the present invention is not restricted to any special configuration of upper plant support.

Figure 4 shows schematically a plant support base according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in figure 4, the plant support base 4 comprises one or more support opening 40 arranged to support the plant 50. The plant is placed through the support opening 40 such that the plant extends through the plant support base 4 via the support opening 40 and such that the aerial shoot 52 is arranged on the first side of the plant support base 4 to the aerial growing space 24 and the root part 54 is arranged on the second side the plant support base 4 inside the growing chamber 6. The support opening 40 extends through the plant support base 4, from the first side to the second side of the plant support base 4.

The support opening is further provided with a support sleeve 41 arranged into the support opening 40 between the aerial shoot 52 of the plant 50 and the inner surface 43 of the support opening 40, as shown in figure 4. The support sleeve 41 comprises or provides a sleeve opening 42 through which the plant 50 is placed.

The outer surface 44 of the support sleeve 41 is placed against the inner surface 43 of the support opening 40. The plant 50 or the aerial shoot 52 is placed against the inner surface 45 of the support sleeve 41 defining the sleeve opening 42. The support sleeve 41 is made of resilient material such as foam rubber or foam plastic or the like resilient material. The resilient characteristic of the support sleeve 41 enables the support sleeve 41 to be compressed when the plant 50 grows without harming the plant 50. Further, the resilient characteristic enables the support sleeve 41 to be tightly pressed and sealed against the inner surface 43 of the support opening 40 and against the aerial shoot 52 of the plant such that light is prevented from entering the growing chamber 6 via the support opening 40.

The support sleeve 41 is provided with a slit 46 extending along the support sleeve 41 in a direction of the sleeve opening 42. Thus, the slit 46 provides a cut to the periphery of the support sleeve 41. The slit 46 facilitates arranging the support sleeve 41 over the plant 50. Alternatively, the slit 46 may be omitted.

Further, the support sleeve 41 may be omitted and a separate and detachable plant holder (not shown) may be installed to the support opening 40. The plant 50 is installed to the plant holder such that the aerial shoot 52 is arranged on the first side of the plant support base 4 in the aerial growing space 24 and the root part 54 is arranged on the second side the plant support base 4 in the growing chamber 6.

Figure 5 shows schematically one embodiment of the aeroponic farming system. The growing chamber 6 comprise the bottom wall 13, the top wall 4 and side walls 12 extending between the bottom wall 13 and the top wall 4. The top wall 4 is provided as the plant support base 4 or at least part of it. Accordingly, the plant support base 4 forms the top wall of the growing chamber 6 or the plant support base 4 forms at least part of the top wall of the growing chamber 6.

The growing chamber 6 is provided with spraying arrangement 800 arranged to spray first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222 inside the closed chamber space 20, 2111 of the growing chamber 6.

In one embodiment, the aeroponic farming system 2 further comprises a water supply 998 arranged supply water 220 to the spraying arrangement 800.

In one embodiment, the water supply 998 is connected to a water supply network.

In an alternative embodiment, the aeroponic farming system 2 further comprises a water supply 998 comprising a water reservoir 999 arranged to retain water 220.

In another alternative embodiment, the aeroponic farming system 2 further comprises a water supply 998 comprising a water reservoir 999 arranged to retain water 220, and the water reservoir 999 is connected to a water supply network.

Figure 6 shows an alternative embodiment of the growing chamber 6. The growing chamber 6 and the lower liquid space 2111 is provided with a first separate growing liquid reservoir 200 and a second separate growing liquid reservoir 299 arranged below the partitioning wall 16. The first separate growing liquid reservoir 200 is arranged to store the excessive first growing liquid 22 flowing from the upper growing space 20. The second separate growing liquid reservoir 299 is arranged to store the excessive second growing liquid 222 flowing from the upper growing space 20. The first separate growing liquid reservoir 200 and the second separate growing liquid reservoir are made of waterproof material for keeping first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222 inside. The first separate growing liquid reservoir 200 and the second separate growing liquid reservoir 299 may have an open top wall enabling the excessive first and second growing liquid to enter from the upper growing space 20.

The first separate growing liquid reservoir 200 and the second separate growing liquid reservoir 299 are arranged below the plant support base 4 and/or at lower part of the closed chamber space 20.

The temperature sensor may be arranged to the first separate growing liquid reservoir 200 for measuring the temperature of the first growing liquid 22 inside the first separate growing liquid reservoir 200.

The temperature sensor may be arranged to the second separate growing liquid reservoir 299 for measuring the temperature of the second growing liquid 222 inside the second separate growing liquid reservoir 299.

The surface level sensor may be also arranged to the first separate growing liquid reservoir 200 for measuring surface level or amount of first growing liquid 22 inside the first separate growing liquid reservoir 200.

The surface level sensor may be also arranged to the second separate growing liquid reservoir 299 for measuring surface level or amount of second growing liquid 222 inside the second separate growing liquid reservoir 299.

In one embodiment, the spraying arrangement 800 comprises first growing liquid nozzles 70, 71 arranged to spray first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222 to the upper growing space 20 of the growing chamber 6 to the root part 54 of the plant 50. The first growing liquid nozzles 70, 71 are arranged to atomize and spray atomized growing liquid to the upper growing space 20. The first growing liquid nozzles 70, 71 may be any kind of known spray nozzles.

The first growing liquid nozzle 70 comprises a first nozzle head 71 from which the growing liquid is discharged out of the first growing liquid nozzle 70. The first growing liquid nozzle 70 or the first nozzle head 71 thereof is arranged to spray first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222in horizontal direction and/or parallel to the plant support base 4, as shown in figure 6. However, in some embodiment, the first growing liquid nozzles 70 or the first nozzle heads 71 thereof are arranged to spray first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222in vertical direction upwards or downwards or transversely or perpendicularly to the plant support base 4, as shown in figure 9. Further alternatively, the first growing liquid nozzles 70 or the first nozzle heads 71 thereof may be arranged to spray first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222in an angle between vertical and horizontal direction.

The first growing liquid nozzles 70, 71 are supported to the top wall or the plant support base 4. Thus, the first growing liquid nozzles 70, 71 are supported to the structures of the growing chamber 6.

In the embodiment of the figures, the one or more growing liquid nozzles 70, 71 are arranged or placed to the upper growing space 20 and arranged to spray first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222to the upper growing space 20 of the growing chamber 6.

In an alternative embodiment, the one or more first growing liquid nozzles 70 may be arranged outside the upper growing space 20 such that the first nozzle head 71 opens into the upper growing space 20 and/or is arranged to spray first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222to the upper growing space 20 of the growing chamber 6. Thus, the first growing liquid nozzle 70 may be arranged at least partly to the lower liquid space 2111 or embedded to side wall 12 or the top wall 4 of the growing chamber 6.

Preferably, the first growing liquid nozzles 70, 71 are arranged to the spray growing liquid in upper part of the closed chamber space 20 or close to the plant support base 4 for spraying the root part 54 of the plant 50.

The growing chamber 6 may comprise a temperature sensor arranged to the upper growing space 20 and arranged to measure temperature in the upper growing space 20, or arranged to the lower liquid space 2111 and arranged to measure temperature of the growing liquid 22 in the lower liquid space 2111 or in the growing liquid reservoir in the lower liquid space 2111.

The temperature sensors may be attached or supported to the growing chamber walls 12, 13, 4.

The first and second chamber temperature sensors may be any known kind of temperature sensors.

The growing chamber 6 is further provided with a chamber humidity sensor 66 arranged to measure humidity in upper growing space 20. The chamber humidity sensor 66 may be any know kind of humidity sensor. The chamber humidity sensor 66 is preferably connected directly or indirectly to the first growing liquid nozzles 70 for controlling and adjusting the first growing liquid nozzles 70 and spraying of growing liquid based on the measurements with the chamber humidity sensor 66. Thus, the measurements with the chamber humidity sensor 66 is utilized for adjusting operation of the first growing liquid nozzles 70.

The chamber humidity sensor 66 is arranged to the upper growing space 20 or arranged to measure humidity in the upper growing space 20. The chamber humidity sensor 66 may be attached or supported to the attached or supported to the growing chamber walls 12, 13, 4.

The growing chamber 6 may be provided with a surface level sensors arranged to measure the surface level of first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222 in the lower liquid space. The surface level sensor may be any known surface level sensor.

The inner growing chamber space is divided to the upper growing space 20 and the lower liquid space 2111 with the partitioning wall 16, as shown in figure 2.

The first growing liquid nozzles 70 are arranged or supported to the side walls 12 of the growing chamber 6 in the upper growing space 20. Further, the first growing liquid nozzles 70 are arranged to spray first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222in horizontal direction or parallel to the plant support base 4 in to the upper growing space 20.

Figure 7 shows one embodiment of present invention. In this embodiment the spraying arrangement 800 comprises first growing liquid nozzles 70, 71 arranged to spray first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid nozzles 700, 701 arranged to spray second growing liquid 222 to the upper growing space 20 of the growing chamber 6 to the root part 54 of the plant 50. The second growing liquid nozzles 700, 701 may be supported and positioned in the same way as disclosed about supporting and positioning of the first growing liquid nozzles 70, 71 in figure 6.

The second growing liquid nozzles 700, 701 may be any kind of known spray nozzles.

The second growing liquid nozzle 700 comprises a second nozzle head 701 from which the second growing liquid is discharged out of the second growing liquid nozzle 701.

Figure 8a shows one embodiment of present invention. In this embodiment the aeroponic farming system 2 comprises a growing liquid separation arrangement 970 comprising a tilting device 997 arranged to tilt the partitioning wall 16.

In figure 8a the partitioning wall 16 is in a first tilted position 996 arranged to discharge excessive first growing liquid 22 to the first growing liquid to the first growing liquid space 21 or to the first growing liquid reservoir 200 in the first growing liquid space 21.

In one embodiment, the tilting device 997 comprises a hydraulic cylinder arranged to tilt the partitioning wall 16.

In an alternative embodiment, the tilting device 997 comprises an electric device arranged to tilt the partitioning wall 16.

The aeroponic farming system 2 comprises a first growing liquid gap 994 between the partitioning wall 16 and the growing chamber walls 12.

The partitioning wall 16 is in a first tilted position 996 arranged to discharge excessive first growing liquid 22 to the first growing liquid space 21. First growing liquid 22 is arranged to flow over the partitioning wall 16 and through the first growing liquid gap 994 to the first growing liquid space 22.

Figure 8b shows one embodiment of present invention. In this embodiment the aeroponic farming system 2 comprises a growing liquid separation arrangement 970 comprising a tilting device 997 arranged to tilt the partitioning wall 16. In figure 8b the partitioning wall 16 is in a second tilted position 995 arranged to discharge excessive second growing liquid 222 to the second growing liquid space 211 or to the second growing liquid reservoir 299 in the second growing liquid space 211.

The aeroponic farming system 2 comprises a second growing liquid gap 993 between the partitioning wall 16 and the growing chamber walls 12.

The partitioning wall 16 is in a second tilted position 995 arranged to discharge excessive second growing liquid 222 to the second growing liquid space 211. Second growing liquid 222 is arranged to flow over the partitioning wall 16 and through the second growing liquid gap 993 to the second growing liquid space 211.

Figure 9 shows one embodiment of present invention. In this embodiment, the aeroponic farming system 2 comprises a growing liquid separation arrangement 970 comprising a first discharge connection 99 and a second discharge connection 990 provided to the partitioning wall 16. The first discharge connection 99 being arranged to discharge excessive first growing liquid 22 sprayed into the upper growing space 20 from the upper growing space 20 to the first growing liquid space 21 or to the first growing liquid reservoir 200 in the first growing liquid space 21. The second discharge connection 990 provided to the partitioning wall 16 between the upper growing space 20 and the second growing liquid space 211, the second discharge connection 990 being arranged to discharge excessive second growing liquid 222 sprayed into the upper growing space 20 from the upper growing space 20 to the second growing liquid space 211 or to the second growing liquid reservoir 299 in the second growing liquid space 211.

In one embodiment, the partitioning wall 16 is arranged in a inclined position towards the first discharge connection 99 and the second discharge connection 990 such that first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222 flow on the partitioning wall 16 to the first discharge connection 99 and the second discharge connection 990.

In one embodiment, the first discharge connection 99 comprises a first valve and the second discharge connection 990 comprises a second valve. The first valve is arranged to be open and the second valve is arranged to be closed when the first discharge connection 99 is arranged to discharge excessive first growing liquid 22 sprayed into the upper growing space. The second valve is arranged to be open and the first valve is arranged to be closed when the second discharge connection 990 is arranged to discharge excessive second growing liquid 222 sprayed into the upper growing space 20.

In one embodiment, the aeroponic farming system 2 comprises a growing liquid filter 1000 between the partitioning wall 16 and the first growing liquid space 21.

In one embodiment the aeroponic farming system 2 comprises a growing liquid filter 1000 between the partitioning wall 16 and the second growing liquid space 211.

In one embodiment the growing liquid filter 1000 comprises a filter layer with a rating between 0.5-100 micron.

In one embodiment the growing liquid filter comprises a filter layer comprising an active carbon filter.

The aeroponic farming system 2 or the growing chamber 6 of figure 9 is provided with a first growing liquid outlet arrangement 91 or first growing liquid outlet 91 arranged to discharge first growing liquid 22 from the growing chamber 6. The first growing liquid outlet arrangement 91 is provided to the bottom wall 13 of the growing chamber 6. Alternatively, the growing liquid outlet arrangement may be provided to side wall 12 of the growing chamber 6. Thus, first growing liquid 22 may be discharged from the aeroponic farming system 2 by discharging first growing liquid 22 from the closed chamber space 20.

The first growing liquid outlet arrangement 91 may be arranged the discharge first growing liquid 22 form the growing chamber 6 continuously such that first growing liquid 22 is not collected or stored inside the growing chamber 6.

Alternatively, the first growing liquid space 21 is arranged to form the first growing liquid reservoir 200 for storing first growing liquid 22 inside the growing chamber 6. Accordingly, the first growing liquid outlet arrangement 91 may be user occasionally or at predetermined intervals for changing first growing liquid 22 in the first growing liquid reservoir 200.

The aeroponic farming system 2 or the growing chamber 6 of figure 9 is provided with a second growing liquid outlet arrangement 911 or second growing liquid outlet 911 arranged to discharge second growing liquid 222 from the growing chamber 6. The second growing liquid outlet arrangement 911 is provided to the bottom wall 13 of the growing chamber 6. Alternatively, the second growing liquid outlet arrangement 911 may be provided to the side wall 12 of the growing chamber 6. Thus, second growing liquid 222 may be discharged from the aeroponic farming system 2 by discharging second growing liquid from the closed chamber space 20.

The second growing liquid outlet arrangement 911 may be arranged the discharge second growing liquid 222 form the growing chamber 6 continuously such that second growing liquid 222 is not collected or stored inside the growing chamber 6.

Alternatively, the second growing liquid space 211 is arranged to form the first growing liquid reservoir 299 for storing second growing liquid 222 inside the growing chamber 6. Accordingly, the second growing liquid outlet arrangement 911 may be user occasionally or at predetermined intervals for changing second growing liquid 222 in the second growing liquid reservoir 299.

Figures 10a shows one embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the aeroponic farming system 2 comprises a first growing liquid circulation arrangement 80, 81 arranged to supply first growing liquid 22 from the first growing liquid space 21 to the one or more first growing liquid nozzles 70, 71.

In one embodiment, the first growing liquid circulation arrangement 80, 81 is arranged to supply second growing liquid 222 from the second growing liquid space 211 to the one or more first growing liquid nozzles 70, 71 (not shown in figure).

In an alternative embodiment, the aeroponic farming system 2 comprises a second growing liquid circulation arrangement 180, 181 arranged to supply second growing liquid 222 from the second growing liquid space 211 to the one or more second growing liquid nozzles 700, 701.

The first growing liquid nozzles 70, 71 are arranged inside the closed chamber space 20 of the growing chamber 6.

The second growing liquid nozzles 700, 701 are arranged inside the closed chamber space 20 of the growing chamber 6.

The first liquid circulation arrangement 80,81 comprises a first circulation pump 80 arranged to the first growing liquid space 21 or to the first separate growing liquid reservoir 200 and arranged to pump and supply first growing liquid 22 from the first growing liquid space 21 or the first separate growing liquid reservoir 200 to the first growing liquid nozzles 70 via a first circulation channel 81. The first circulation channel 81 is connected between the first circulation pump 80 and the one or more first growing liquid nozzles 70. The first growing liquid nozzles 70 are arranged into the upper growing space 20.

Furthermore, in the embodiment of figure 10a, the first liquid circulation arrangement 80, 81, the first circulation pump 80 and the first circulation channel 81 are arranged inside the growing chamber 6.

The second liquid circulation arrangement 180,181 comprises a second circulation pump 180 arranged to the second growing liquid space 211 or to the second separate growing liquid reservoir 299 and arranged to pump and supply second growing liquid 222 from the second growing liquid space 211 or the second separate growing liquid reservoir 299 to the second growing liquid nozzles 700 via a second circulation channel 181. The second circulation channel 181 is connected between the second circulation pump 180 and the one or more second growing liquid nozzles 700. The second growing liquid nozzles 700 are arranged into the upper growing space 20.

Furthermore, in the embodiment of figure 10a, the second liquid circulation arrangement 180, 181, the second circulation pump 180 and the second circulation channel 181 are arranged inside the growing chamber 6.

In one embodiment, the first circulation arrangement 80,81 is arranged to circulate first growing liquid 22 from first growing liquid space 21 or the separate growing liquid reservoir 200 to the first growing liquid nozzles 70 to be sprayed to the root part of the plant inside the growing chamber 6.

In alternative embodiment, the first circulation arrangement 80,81 is arranged to circulate first growing liquid 22 from first growing liquid space 21 or the first separate growing liquid reservoir 200 and the second growing liquid 222 from the second growing liquid space 211 or the second separate growing liquid reservoir 299 to the first growing liquid nozzles 70 to be sprayed to the root part of the plant inside the growing chamber 6.

In another alternative embodiment, the first circulation arrangement 80,81 is arranged to circulate first growing liquid 22 fromfirst growing liquid space 21 or the separate growing liquid reservoir 200 to the first growing liquid nozzles 70 to be sprayed to the root part of the plant inside the growing chamber 6 and the second circulation arrangement 180,181 is arranged to circulate second growing liquid 222 from second growing liquid space 211 or the second separate growing liquid reservoir 299 to the second growing liquid nozzles 700 to be sprayed to the root part of the plant inside the growing chamber 6.

In the embodiment of figure 10a, the aeroponic farming system 2 or the growing chamber 6 is provided with a first growing liquid inlet arrangement 90 arranged to supply first growing liquid 22 into the growing chamber 6. In this embodiment, the first growing liquid inlet arrangement 90 is connected to the growing chamber 6 and arranged to the supply first growing liquid 22 to the first growing liquid space 21 of the growing chamber 6. Thus, the first growing liquid inlet arrangement 90 is connected to the first growing liquid space 21 or to the first separate growing liquid reservoir 200. Therefore, new first growing liquid may be added to the aeroponic farming system 2 by supplying first growing liquid to the first growing liquid space 21 or to the first separate growing liquid reservoir 200.

In the embodiment of figure 10a, the aeroponic farming system 2 or the growing chamber 6 is provided with a second growing liquid inlet arrangement 190 arranged to supply second growing liquid 222 into the growing chamber 6. In this embodiment, the second growing liquid inlet arrangement 190 is connected to the growing chamber 6 and arranged to the supply second growing liquid 222 to the second growing liquid space 211 of the growing chamber 6. Thus, the second growing liquid inlet arrangement 190 is connected to the second growing liquid space 211 or to the second separate growing liquid reservoir 299. Therefore, new second growing liquid 222 may be added to the aeroponic farming system 2 by supplying second growing liquid 222 to the second growing liquid space 211 or to the second separate growing liquid reservoir 299.

In one the aeroponic farming system comprises synchronizing device 400 arranged to synchronize the supply of first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222 such that the supply of first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222 is cyclic and first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222 are supplied in different time.

Figure 10b shows an alternative embodiment. In this embodiment, the first liquid circulation arrangement 80, 81 is arranged outside or is arranged to extend outside the growing chamber 6. As shown in figure 10b, the first circulation pump 80 is arranged outside the growing chamber 6. The aeroponic farming system 2 and the growing chamber 6 is provided with a first circulation outlet 82 extending from the growing chamber 6 to the first circulation pump 80. The first circulation outlet 82 is arranged between the first growing liquid space 21 or the first growing liquid reservoir 200 and the first circulation pump 80 for supplying first growing liquid 22 outside the growing chamber 6. The first growing liquid nozzles 70 are arranged inside the growing chamber 6 to the upper growing space 20. The first circulation channel 81 extends outside the growing chamber 6 from the first circulation pump 80 to the upper growing space 20. The first circulation channel 81 further extends outside the growing chamber 6 between the first circulation pump 80 and the first growing liquid nozzles 70. The first circulation channel 81 further extends through the growing chamber wall or the plant support base 4 and is connected to the first growing liquid nozzles 70.

In one embodiment the aeroponic farming system 2 comprises the second liquid circulation arrangement 180, 181 and the second liquid circulation arrangement 180, 181 is arranged outside or is arranged to extend outside the growing chamber 6. As shown in figure 10b, the second circulation pump 180 is arranged outside the growing chamber 6. The aeroponic farming system 2 and the growing chamber 6 is provided with a second circulation outlet 182 extending from the growing chamber 6 to the second circulation pump 180 and a second circulation outlet 182 extending from the growing chamber 6 to the second circulation pump 180. The second circulation outlet 182 is arranged between the second growing liquid space 211 or the second growing liquid reservoir 299 and the second circulation pump 180 for supplying second growing liquid 222 outside the growing chamber 6. The second growing liquid nozzles 70 are arranged inside the growing chamber 6 to the upper growing space 20. The second circulation channel 181 extends outside the growing chamber 6 from the second circulation pump 180 to the upper growing space 20. The second circulation channel 181 further extends outside the growing chamber 6 between the second circulation pump 180 and the second growing liquid nozzles 700. The second circulation channel 181 further extends through the growing chamber wall or the plant support base 4 and is connected to the second growing liquid nozzles 700.

In an alternative embodiment, a second circulation outlet 182 extending from the second growing liquid space 211 or from the second growing liquid reservoir 299 to the first circulation pump 80. The second circulation outlet 182 is arranged between the second growing liquid space 211 or the second growing liquid reservoir 299 and the first circulation pump 80.

In figure 11a, the aeroponic farming system 2 comprises a first growing liquid aerator 401 in connection with the first growing liquid space 21 for reducing an amount of culture in first growing liquid 22. The first growing liquid aerator 401 is a mechanical device used for aeration, or mixing air with first growing liquid 22. In one embodiment the first growing liquid aerator 401 is a floating surface aerator arranged to mix required for dispersing the air and for contact the reactants. In an alternative embodiment the first growing liquid aerator 401 is a subsurface aerator arranged to release bubbles at the bottom of the water body and allow them to rise by the force of buoyancy. In a yet alternative embodiment the first growing liquid aerator 401 is a surface aerator arranged to create splashes to a surface of first growing liquid .

The growing chamber 6 may comprise a chamber temperature sensor 104 arranged to the closed chamber space 20 and arranged to measure temperature in the closed chamber space 20.

The aeroponic farming system 2 may comprise a first thermal adjustment device 100 arranged to adjust the temperature of first growing liquid 22. The first thermal adjustment device 100 may be a heat exchanger, heating device, cooling device or combined heating and cooling device implemented as any known type of device for controlling temperature of liquid material. The first thermal adjustment device 100, may comprise heater, such as electric heater or liquid heater, and/or cooler, such as electric cooler or liquid cooler. The first thermal adjustment device 100 may comprise a heat exchanger arranged exchange temperature between first growing liquid in the aeroponic farming system 2 and a working fluid. Adjusting the temperature of the working fluid, liquid or gas, or flow rate of the growing liquid and/or the working fluid in the heat exchanger 100 the temperature of the growing liquid may be adjusted. The first thermal adjustment device 100 may also be a heat transfer element or thermoelement. Accordingly, the first thermal adjustment device 100 may be any known kind of device or element arranged to adjust temperature of the growing liquid in the aeroponic farming system 2.

In the embodiment, the first thermal adjustment device 100 is arranged in connection with or to the first growing liquid space 2. Accordingly, the first thermal adjustment device 100 is arranged to adjust temperature of first growing liquid 22 stored and collected to the first growing liquid space 21 or the first separate growing liquid reservoir 200. Therefore, temperature of the first growing liquid supplied to the first and the second growing liquid nozzles 70 via the first and second circulation arrangement 80, 81 is adjusted. Further, temperature of first growing liquid supplied to the first growing liquid nozzles 70 via the first circulation arrangement 80, 81 upstream of the growing chamber 6 or the first growing liquid nozzles 70 and before spraying first growing liquid into the closed chamber space or to the upper growing space 20. Accordingly, first growing liquid may be maintained or adjusted to desired temperature inside the growing chamber 6.

In the embodiments of 11a, the first thermal adjustment device 100 may be heating device for heating the growing liquid, a cooling device for cooling the growing liquid or a combined heating and cooling device for heating and cooling the growing liquid.

The first thermal adjustment device 100 is connected to the power source 110 or heat and/or cold source for operating the thermal adjustment device 100.

The aeroponic farming system 2 may further be provided with a temperature sensor 104 for controlling an operation of the thermal adjustment device 100. Further, the temperature sensor 104 may be arranged between the thermal adjustment device 100 and the growing chamber 6 or the growing liquid nozzles 70.

The growing chamber 6 may comprise the chamber temperature sensor 104 arranged to the upper growing space 20 and arranged to measure temperature in the upper growing space 20. The second chamber temperature sensor is provided to the first growing liquid space 21 and arranged to measure temperature of first growing liquid 22 in the first growing liquid space 21 or in the first growing liquid reservoir 200 in the lower liquid space 21. Thus, the temperature of the first growing liquid 22 is adjusted with the first thermal adjustment device 100 based on the predetermined desired temperature values and the temperatures measured with the first and second temperature sensors.

Adjusting the temperature of first growing liquid in the first growing liquid reservoir 200 provides thermal accumulator inside the growing chamber 6.

In the embodiment of figure 11a, the aeroponic farming system 2 comprises a sanitizing arrangement 150 for sanitizing first growing liquid 22.

In one embodiment the sanitizing arrangement 150 comprises a sterilant arranged to first growing liquid 22.

The sanitizing arrangement 150 is arranged in connection with the first growing liquid space 21 or the growing liquid reservoir 200.

In one embodiment, the sanitizing arrangement 150 comprises a first sterilant device 1165. The first sterilant device 1165 is arranged to reduce substantially an amount of forms of life in first growing liquid 22 by providing first growing liquid 22 with a sterilant. Typically, the sterilant is arranged to kill or deactivate microorganisms such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, spores and unicellular eukaryotic organisms. Thus, first growing liquid 22 comprises less particles which may block the growing liquid nozzles 70.

In figure lib, the aeroponic farming system 2 comprises a second growing liquid aerator 1401 in connection with the second growing liquid space 211 for reducing an amount of culture in second growing liquid 222. The second growing liquid aerator 1401 is a mechanical device used for aeration, or mixing air with second growing liquid 222. In one embodiment the second growing liquid aerator 1401 is a floating surface aerator arranged to mix required for dispersing the air and for contact the reactants. In an alternative embodiment the second growing liquid aerator 1401 is a subsurface aerator arranged to release bubbles at the bottom of the water body and allow them to rise by the force of buoyancy. In a yet alternative embodiment the second growing liquid aerator 1401 is a surface aerator arranged to create splashes to a surface of second growing liquid 222.

The aeroponic farming system 2 may comprise a second thermal adjustment device 1100 arranged to adjust the temperature of second growing liquid 22. The second thermal adjustment device 1100 may be a heat exchanger, heating device, cooling device or combined heating and cooling device implemented as any known type of device for controlling temperature of liquid material. The second thermal adjustment device 1100, may comprise heater, such as electric heater or liquid heater, and/or cooler, such as electric cooler or liquid cooler. The second thermal adjustment device 1100 may comprise a heat exchanger arranged exchange temperature between second growing liquid in the aeroponic farming system 2 and a working fluid. Adjusting the temperature of the working fluid, liquid or gas, or flow rate of the growing liquid and/or the working fluid in the heat exchanger 1100 the temperature of the growing liquid may be adjusted. The second thermal adjustment device 1100 may also be a heat transfer element or thermoelement. Accordingly, the second thermal adjustment device 1100 may be any known kind of device or element arranged to adjust temperature of the growing liquid in the aeroponic farming system 2.

In the embodiment, the second thermal adjustment device 1100 is arranged in connection with or to the second growing liquid space 211. Accordingly, the second thermal adjustment device 1100 is arranged to adjust temperature of second growing liquid 222 stored and collected to the second growing liquid space 211 or the second separate growing liquid reservoir 299. Therefore, temperature of the second growing liquid supplied to the second growing liquid nozzles 700 is adjusted. Further, temperature of second growing liquid supplied to the second growing liquid nozzles 700 is adjusted. Accordingly, second growing liquid 222 may be maintained or adjusted to desired temperature inside the growing chamber 6.

In the embodiments of lib, the second thermal adjustment device 1100 may be heating device for heating the growing liquid, a cooling device for cooling the growing liquid or a combined heating and cooling device for heating and cooling the growing liquid.

The second thermal adjustment device 100 is connected to the power source or heat and/or cold source for operating the thermal adjustment device 1100.

The aeroponic farming system 2 may further be provided with a temperature sensor 104 for controlling an operation of the thermal adjustment device 100. Further, the temperature sensor 104 may be arranged between the thermal adjustment device 1100 and the growing chamber 6 or the second growing liquid nozzles 700.

The growing chamber 6 may comprise the chamber temperature sensor 104 arranged to the upper growing space 20 and arranged to measure temperature in the upper growing space 20. The second chamber temperature sensor is provided to the second growing liquid space 211 and arranged to measure temperature of second growing liquid 222 in the second growing liquid space 211 or in the second growing liquid reservoir 200 in the lower liquid space 21. Thus, the temperature of the second growing liquid 222 is adjusted with the second thermal adjustment device 1100 based on the predetermined desired temperature values and the temperatures measured with the second and second temperature sensors.

Adjusting the temperature of second growing liquid 22 in the second growing liquid reservoir 299 provides thermal accumulator inside the growing chamber 6.

In the embodiment of figure lib, the aeroponic farming system 2 comprises a sanitizing arrangement 150 for sanitizing second growing liquid 222.

In one embodiment the sanitizing arrangement 150 comprises a sterilant arranged to second growing liquid 222.

The sanitizing arrangement 150 is arranged in connection with the second growing liquid space 211 or the growing liquid reservoir 299.

In one embodiment, the sanitizing arrangement 150 comprises a second sterilant device 2165. The second sterilant device 2165 is arranged to reduce substantially an amount of forms of life in second growing liquid 222 by providing second growing liquid 222 with a sterilant. Typically, the sterilant is arranged to kill or deactivate microorganisms such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, spores and unicellular eukaryotic organisms. Thus, second growing liquid 222 comprises less particles which may block the second growing liquid nozzles 700.

Figure 12 shows an embodiment of the sanitizing arrangement 150 for sanitizing the aeroponic farming system. The sanitizing arrangement 150 comprises the sanitizing device 165, a sanitizing inlet 161, a sanitizing outlet 162, the water reservoir 999 and the synchronizing device 400.

The water reservoir 999 further comprises a sanitizing reservoir wall 160 to form a closed chamber for sanitizing growing liquid 22.

In one embodiment, the sanitizing device 165 is arranged in connection with the sanitizing reservoir wall 160.

The sanitizing inlet 161 is arranged to add water 220 into the water reservoir 999.

The sanitizing outlet 162 is arranged to provide water 220 with ozone to the aeroponic farming system 2.

Typically, the sanitizing device 165 is arranged to form ozone from oxygen by electrical discharges and by action of high energy electromagnetic radiation. The sanitizing device 165 releases ozone into water 220.

The synchronizing device 400 is arranged to synchronize the supply of water 220 such that the supply of water 220 is cyclic and water 220 is supplied when first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222 are not supplied. The synchronizing device 400 may further comprise a computer or processor unit.

Figure 13 shows an embodiment in which the aeroponic farming system 2 further comprises a first inlet arrangement, a second inlet arrangement, a first circulation pump inlet filter 1002, a first circulation pump outlet filter 1001, a second circulation pump inlet filter 1004 and a second circulation pump outlet filter 1003.

In one embodiment, the first circulation pump inlet filter 1002 and the second circulation pump inlet filter 1004 are arranged to pass larger particles through than the first circulation pump outlet filter 1001 and the second circulation pump outlet filter 1003.

That reduces maintenance work of the aeroponic farming system 2.

In one embodiment, the first circulation pump outlet filter 1001 and the second circulation pump outlet filter 1003 comprises a laminate filter,

That reduces blocking of the one or more first growing liquid nozzles 70, 71 and the one or more second growing liquid nozzles 700, 701.

The first inlet arrangement comprises a first supply channel 73, or the first supply channel 73 and a first supply pump 93; or the first supply channel 73, the supply pump 93 and a first growing liquid source 92.

The first growing liquid source 92 may comprise a first growing liquid container. First growing liquid 22 is supplied to the growing chamber 6 from the first growing liquid source 92 by the first supply pump 93 via the first growing liquid supply channel 73. The first growing liquid supply channel 73 extends from between the first growing liquid source 92 and the first growing liquid nozzles 70,

71. The first supply pump 93 is arranged in connection with or to the first supply channel 73. Alternatively, the first supply pump 93 maybe arranged in connection with or to the first growing liquid source 92.

That eases adding additional first growing liquid 22 to the system 2.

The second inlet arrangement comprises a second supply channel 173, or the second supply channel 173 and a second supply pump 193; or the second supply channel 173, the second supply pump 193 and a second growing liquid source 192.

The second growing liquid source 192 may comprise a second growing liquid container. The second growing liquid 222 is supplied to the growing chamber 6 from the second growing liquid source 192 by the second supply pump 193 via the second growing liquid supply channel 173. The second growing liquid supply channel 173 extends from between the second growing liquid source 192 and the second growing liquid nozzles 700, 701. The second supply pump 193 is arranged in connection with or to the second supply channel 173. Alternatively, the second supply pump 193 may be arranged in connection with or to the second growing liquid source 192.

That eases adding additional second growing liquid 222 to the system 2.

It should be noted that embodiments of figure 13 may be combined with any of embodiments disclosed in figures 1-12

The present invention provides a method for aeroponic farming of plants 50 having an aerial shoot 52 and an underground root part 54. The aeroponic farming being carried with an aeroponic farming system 2 comprising a growing chamber 6 having growing chamber walls 12, 13, 4 defining a closed chamber space 20, 2111 for accommodating the root part 54 of the plant 50 and a lower liquid space 2111 comprising a first growing liquid space 21 arranged to retain first growing liquid 22 and a second growing liquid space 211 arranged to retain second growing liquid 222. The method comprises flowing steps:

- spraying first growing liquid 22 in the closed chamber space 20, 2111 to the root part 54 of the plant 50,

- collecting excessive sprayed first growing liquid 22 inside the closed chamber space 20, 2111 of the growing chamber 6 to first growing liquid space 21,

- spraying second growing liquid 222 in the closed chamber space 20, 2111 to the root part 54 of the plant 50, and

- collecting excessive sprayed second growing liquid 222 inside the closed chamber space 20, 2111 of the growing chamber 6 to the second growing liquid space 211.

In other words, first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222 are not mixed.

In one embodiment, the aeroponic farming system 2 further comprises a spraying arrangement 800 arranged to spray first growing liquid 22 and second growing liquid 222 and the method further comprises circulating the collected first growing liquid 22 from first growing liquid space 21 to the spraying arrangement 800 and circulating the collected second growing liquid 222 from the second growing liquid space 211 to the spraying arrangement 800.

In one embodiment, the aeroponic farming system 2 further comprises a water supply 998 arranged supply water 220 to the spraying arrangement 800 and the method further comprises spraying water 220 to the root part 54 of the plant 50 with the spraying arrangement 800.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises the following processing steps carried out successively:

- spraying water 220 to the root part 54 of the plant 50 with the spraying arrangement 800,

- collecting excessive sprayed water 220 inside the closed chamber space 20, 2111 of the growing chamber 6 to the first growing liquid space 21,

- spraying second growing liquid 222 in the closed chamber space 20, 2111 to the root part 54 of the plant 50,

- collecting excessive sprayed second growing liquid 222 inside the closed chamber space 20, 2111 of the growing chamber 6 to the second growing liquid space 211,

- spraying water 220 to the root part 54 of the plant 50 with the spraying arrangement 800, and

- collecting excessive sprayed water 220 inside the closed chamber space 20, 2111 of the growing chamber 6 to the second growing liquid space 211.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises sanitizing first growing liquid 22.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises sanitizing water 220.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises sanitizing second growing liquid 222.

In one embodiment, the method comprises collecting excessive sprayed first growing liquid 22 inside the closed chamber space 20, 2111 of the growing chamber 6 to a first growing liquid space 21, and circulating the collected first growing liquid 22 from the first growing liquid space 21 to one or more first growing liquid nozzles 70, 71.

In one embodiment, the method comprises collecting excessive sprayed second growing liquid 222 inside the closed chamber space 20, 2111 of the growing chamber 6 to a second growing liquid space 211, and circulating the collected second growing liquid 222 from the second growing liquid space 211 to one or more first growing liquid nozzles 70, 71.

In one embodiment, the method comprises collecting excessive sprayed second growing liquid 222 inside the closed chamber space 20, 2111 of the growing chamber 6 to a second growing liquid space 211, and circulating the collected second growing liquid 222 from the second growing liquid space 211 to one or more second growing liquid nozzles 700, 701.

In one embodiment, the method comprises mixing air with first growing liquid 22 with a first growing liquid aerator 401 in a first growing liquid space 21 for reducing an amount of culture in first growing liquid 22.

In one embodiment, the method comprises filtering first growing liquid 22 with a growing liquid filter 1000 for creating clarified first growing liquid 22 .

In one embodiment, the method comprises mixing air with second growing liquid 222 with a second aerator 4011 in a second growing liquid space 211 for reducing an amount of culture in second growing liquid 222.

In one embodiment, the method comprises filtering second growing liquid 222 with a growing liquid filter 1000 for creating clarified second growing liquid 222.

The method may be carried out with any of above disclosed aeroponic farming system 2.

The invention has been described above with reference to the examples shown in the figures. However, the invention is in no way restricted to the above examples but may vary within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An aeroponic farming system (2) for growing plants (50) having an aerial shoot (52) and underground root part (54), the aeroponic farming system (2) comprising:

- a plant support base (4) for supporting the plant (50), the plant support base (4) comprises a support opening (40) arranged to support the plant (50) such that the plant extends through the plant support base (4) via the support opening (40) and such that the aerial shoot (52) is arranged on a first side of the plant support base (4) and the root part (54) is arranged on a second side the plant support base (4);

- a growing chamber (6) provided on the second side of the plant support base (4), the growing chamber (6) comprising growing chamber walls (12, 13, 4) defining a closed chamber space (20, 2111), c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that the aeroponic farming system (2) further comprises:

- a lower liquid space (2111) comprising a first growing liquid space

(21) arranged to retain first growing liquid (22) and a second growing liquid space (211) arranged to retain second growing liquid (222);

- a spraying arrangement (800) arranged to spray first growing liquid

(22) and second growing liquid (222) inside the closed chamber space (20, 2111) of the growing chamber (6); and

- a partitioning wall (16) arranged to divide the closed chamber space (20, 2111) into an upper growing space (20) and the lower liquid space (2111), and arranged to discharge excessive first growing liquid (22) sprayed into the upper growing space (20) from the upper growing space (20) to the first growing liquid space (21) and discharge excessive second growing liquid (222) sprayed into the upper growing space (20) from the upper growing space (20) to the second growing liquid space (211).

2. An aeroponic farming system (2) according to claim 1, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that the aeroponic farming system (2) further comprises a lower liquid space wall (2112) arranged to divide the lower liquid space (2111) to the first growing liquid space (21) and the second growing liquid space (211).

3. An aeroponic farming system (2) according to claim 1 or 2, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:

- the aeroponic farming system (2) further comprises a first separate growing liquid reservoir 200] provided to the first growing liquid space (21 J and arranged to retain first growing liquid (22); or

- the aeroponic farming system (2) further comprises a second separate growing liquid reservoir (299) provided to the second growing liquid space (211) and arranged to retain second growing liquid (222); or

- the aeroponic farming system (2) further comprises a first separate growing liquid reservoir (200) provided to the first growing liquid space (21) and arranged to retain first growing liquid (22) and a second separate growing liquid reservoir (299) provided to the second growing liquid space (211) and arranged to retain second growing liquid (222).

4. An aeroponic farming system (2) according to any one of claims 1 - 3, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:

- the aeroponic farming system (2) further comprises a water supply (998) arranged supply water (220) to the spraying arrangement (800); or

- the aeroponic farming system (2) further comprises a water supply (998) arranged supply water (220) to the spraying arrangement (800), and the water supply (998) is connected to a water supply network; or

- the aeroponic farming system (2) further comprises a water supply (998) arranged supply water (220) to the spraying arrangement (800), and the water supply comprises a water reservoir (999) arranged to retain water (220); or

- the aeroponic farming system (2) further comprises a water supply (998) arranged supply water (220) to the spraying arrangement (800), the water supply (998) comprises a water reservoir (999) arranged to retain water (220), and the water reservoir (999) is connected to a water supply network.

5. An aeroponic farming system (2) according to any one of claims 1 - 4, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:

- the spraying arrangement (800) comprises one or more first growing liquid nozzles (70, 71) arranged to spray first growing liquid (22) and second growing liquid (222) inside the closed chamber space (20, 21) of the growing chamber (6); or

- the spraying arrangement (800) comprises one or more first growing liquid nozzles (70, 71) arranged to spray first growing liquid (22), second growing liquid (222) and water (220) inside the closed chamber space (20, 21) of the growing chamber (6); or

- the spraying arrangement (800) comprises one or more first growing liquid nozzles (70, 71) arranged to spray first growing liquid (22) and one or more second growing liquid nozzles (700, 701) arranged to spray second growing liquid (222) inside the closed chamber space (20, 21) of the growing chamber (6); or

- the spraying arrangement (800) comprises one or more first growing liquid nozzles (70, 71) arranged to spray first growing liquid (22) and water (220), and one or more second growing liquid nozzles (700, 701) arranged to spray second growing liquid (222) and water (220) inside the closed chamber space (20, 21) of the growing chamber (6).

6. An aeroponic farming system (2) according to any one of claims 1 -5, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that the growing chamber walls (12, 13, 4) being nontransparent.

7. An aeroponic farming system (2) according to any one of claims 3 -6, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:

- the aeroponic farming system (2) comprises a growing liquid separation arrangement (970) arranged to separate and discharge excessive first growing liquid (22) sprayed into the upper growing space (20) from the upper growing space (20) to the first growing liquid space (21) or to the first growing liquid reservoir (200) in the first growing liquid space (21) and arranged to separate and discharge excessive second growing liquid (222) sprayed into the upper growing space (20) from the upper growing space (20) to the second growing liquid space (211) or to the second growing liquid reservoir (299) in the second growing liquid space (211); or

- the aeroponic farming system (2) comprises a growing liquid separation arrangement (970) comprising a tilting device (997) arranged to tilt the partitioning wall (16) to a first tilted position (996) to discharge excessive first growing liquid (22) to the first growing liquid space (21) or to the first growing liquid reservoir (200), and arranged to tilt the partitioning wall (16) to a second (995) tilted position to discharge excessive second growing liquid (222) sprayed into the upper growing space (20) from the upper growing space (20) to the second growing liquid space (22) to the second growing liquid reservoir (299); or

- the aeroponic farming system (2) comprises a growing liquid separation arrangement (970) comprising a first discharge connection (99) and a second discharge connection 990] provided to the partitioning wall 16 J , the first discharge connection [99] being arranged to discharge excessive first growing liquid [22] sprayed into the upper growing space [20] from the upper growing space [20] to the first growing liquid space [21] or to the first growing liquid reservoir [200] in the first growing liquid space [21] and the second discharge connection [990] provided to the partitioning wall [16] between the upper growing space [20] and the second growing liquid space [211], the second discharge connection [990] being arranged to discharge excessive second growing liquid [222] sprayed into the upper growing space [20 ) from the upper growing space [20} to the second growing liquid space [211} or to the second growing liquid reservoir [299] in the second growing liquid space [211); or

- the partitioning wall [16} is made of liquid impermeable plate material or liquid impermeable fabric material, the aeroponic farming system [2} comprises a growing liquid separation arrangement [970} provided to the partitioning wall [16}, and the growing liquid separation arrangement [970} is arranged to separate and discharge excessive first growing liquid [22} sprayed into the upper growing space [20} from the upper growing space [20} to the first growing liquid space [21} or to the first growing liquid reservoir [200} in the first growing liquid space [21} and arranged to separate and discharge excessive second growing liquid [222} sprayed into the upper growing space [20} from the upper growing space [20} to the second growing liquid space [211} or to the second growing liquid reservoir [299} in the second growing liquid space [211}; or

- the aeroponic farming system [2} comprises a growing liquid separation arrangement [970} arranged to separate and discharge excessive first growing liquid [22} sprayed into the upper growing space [20} from the upper growing space [20} to the first growing liquid space [21} or to the first growing liquid reservoir [200} in the first growing liquid space [21} and arranged to separate and discharge excessive second growing liquid [222} sprayed into the upper growing space [20} from the upper growing space [20} to the second growing liquid space [211} or to the second growing liquid reservoir [299} in the second growing liquid space [211}; or

- the partitioning wall [16} is made of liquid impermeable material and the partitioning wall [16} is provided with a growing liquid separation arrangement [970} arranged to separate first growing liquid [22} and second growing liquid [222}; or

- the partitioning wall [16} is made of liquid impermeable material, and the aeroponic farming system (2) comprises a growing liquid separation arrangement (970) arranged to separate first growing liquid (22) and second growing liquid (222).

8. An aeroponic farming system (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:

- the aeroponic farming system (2) comprises a sanitizing arrangement (150) comprising a first sterilant device (1165) arranged to provide first growing liquid (22) with a sterilant; or

- the aeroponic farming system (2) comprises a sanitizing arrangement (150) comprising a second sterilant device (2165) arranged to provide second growing liquid (222) with a sterilant; or

- the aeroponic farming system (2) comprises a sanitizing arrangement (150) comprising a first sterilant device (1165) arranged to provide first growing liquid (22) with a sterilant and a second sterilant device (2165) arranged to provide second growing liquid (222) with a sterilant.

9. An aeroponic farming system (2) according any one of claims 1 to 8, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that the aeroponic farming system (2) comprises a sanitizing arrangement (150) comprising a sanitizing device (165) arranged to release ozone into water (220) for sanitizing the aeroponic farming system (2).

10. An aeroponic farming system (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:

- the aeroponic farming system (2) comprises a first growing liquid circulation arrangement (80, 81, 82) arranged to supply first growing liquid (22) from the first growing liquid space (21) to the one or more first growing liquid nozzles (70, 71); or

- the aeroponic farming system (2) comprises a second growing liquid circulation arrangement (180, 181, 182) arranged to supply second growing liquid (222) from the second lower liquid space (211) to the one or more second growing liquid nozzles (700, 701); or

- the aeroponic farming system (2) comprises a first growing liquid circulation arrangement (80, 81, 82) arranged to supply first growing liquid (22) from the first growing liquid space (21) to the one or more first growing liquid nozzles (70, 71) and a second growing liquid circulation arrangement (180, 181, 182] arranged to supply second growing liquid 222] from the second lower liquid space [211] to the one or more second growing liquid nozzles [700, 701].

11. An aeroponic farming system [2] according to any one of claims 1 - 10, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:

- the aeroponic farming system [2] comprises a synchronizing device [400] arranged to synchronize spraying first growing liquid [22] and second growing liquid [222]; or

- the aeroponic farming system [2] comprises a synchronizing device [400] arranged to synchronize spraying first growing liquid [22], water [220] and second growing liquid [222].

12. A method for aeroponic farming of plants [50] having an aerial shoot [52] and an underground root part [54], c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:

- the aeroponic farming being carried with an aeroponic farming system [2] comprising a growing chamber [6] having growing chamber walls [12, 13, 4] defining a closed chamber space [20, 2111] for accommodating the root part [54] of the plant [50] and a lower liquid space [2111] comprising a first growing liquid space [21] arranged to retain first growing liquid [22] and a second growing liquid space [211] arranged to retain second growing liquid [222], and in that the method comprises:

- spraying first growing liquid [22] in the closed chamber space [20, 2111] to the root part [54] of the plant [50];

- collecting excessive sprayed first growing liquid [22] inside the closed chamber space [20, 2111] of the growing chamber [6] to first growing liquid space (21);

- spraying second growing liquid [222] in the closed chamber space [20, 2111] to the root part [54] of the plant [50]; and

- collecting excessive sprayed second growing liquid [222] inside the closed chamber space [20, 2111] of the growing chamber [6] to the second growing liquid space [211].

13. A method according to claim 12, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:

- the aeroponic farming system [2] further comprises a spraying arrangement [800] arranged to spray first growing liquid [22] and second growing liquid [222]; and - the method further comprises circulating the collected first growing liquid (22) from first growing liquid space (21) to the spraying arrangement (800) and circulating the collected second growing liquid (222) from the second growing liquid space (211) to the spraying arrangement (800).

14. A method according to claiml3, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that the in that:

- the aeroponic farming system (2) further comprises a water supply (998) arranged supply water (220) to the spraying arrangement (800); and

- the method further comprises spraying water (220) to the root part (54) of the plant (50) with the spraying arrangement (800).

15. A method according to any one of claims 12 - 13, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that the method further comprises the following processing steps carried out successively:

- spraying first growing liquid (22) in the closed chamber space (20, 2111) to the root part (54) of the plant (50);

- collecting excessive sprayed first growing liquid (22) inside the closed chamber space (20, 2111) of the growing chamber (6) to first growing liquid space (21);

- spraying water (220) to the root part (54) of the plant (50) with the spraying arrangement (800);

- collecting excessive sprayed water (220) inside the closed chamber space (20, 2111) of the growing chamber (6) to the first growing liquid space (21);

- spraying second growing liquid (222) in the closed chamber space (20, 2111) to the root part (54) of the plant (50);

- collecting excessive sprayed second growing liquid (222) inside the closed chamber space (20, 2111) of the growing chamber (6) to the second growing liquid space (211);

- spraying water (220) to the root part (54) of the plant (50) with the spraying arrangement (800); and

- collecting excessive sprayed water (220) inside the closed chamber space (20, 2111) of the growing chamber (6) to the second growing liquid space (211). 16. A method according to any one of claims 11 - 15, characterized in that:

- the method further comprises sanitizing first growing liquid (22); or

- the method further comprises sanitizing water (220); or

- the method further comprises sanitizing second growing liquid (222); or

- the method further comprises sanitizing first growing liquid (22) and second growing liquid (222); or

- the method further comprises sanitizing first growing liquid (22), second growing liquid (222) and water (220).

17. A method according to any one of claims 12 to 16, characterized in that the method being carried out with an aeroponic farming system (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.