WO2023009893A1 - Module de production d'aliments en intérieur à haut rendement et à faible consommation - Google Patents

Module de production d'aliments en intérieur à haut rendement et à faible consommation Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2023009893A1
WO2023009893A1 PCT/US2022/039061 US2022039061W WO2023009893A1 WO 2023009893 A1 WO2023009893 A1 WO 2023009893A1 US 2022039061 W US2022039061 W US 2022039061W WO 2023009893 A1 WO2023009893 A1 WO 2023009893A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
panel
module
plant
chamber
characteristic
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2022/039061
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Peter Ling
Christopher TKACH
Original Assignee
Ohio State Innovation Foundation
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Ohio State Innovation Foundation filed Critical Ohio State Innovation Foundation
Publication of WO2023009893A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023009893A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G31/00—Soilless cultivation, e.g. hydroponics
    • A01G31/02—Special apparatus therefor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G13/00—Protecting plants
    • A01G13/02—Protective coverings for plants; Coverings for the ground; Devices for laying-out or removing coverings
    • A01G13/04—Cloches, i.e. protective full coverings for individual plants
    • A01G13/043—Cloches, i.e. protective full coverings for individual plants with flexible coverings
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G9/00—Cultivation in receptacles, forcing-frames or greenhouses; Edging for beds, lawn or the like
    • A01G9/02—Receptacles, e.g. flower-pots or boxes; Glasses for cultivating flowers
    • A01G9/026—Foldable pots
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02A—TECHNOLOGIES FOR ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02A40/00—Adaptation technologies in agriculture, forestry, livestock or agroalimentary production
    • Y02A40/10—Adaptation technologies in agriculture, forestry, livestock or agroalimentary production in agriculture
    • Y02A40/25—Greenhouse technology, e.g. cooling systems therefor
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02P—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES IN THE PRODUCTION OR PROCESSING OF GOODS
    • Y02P60/00—Technologies relating to agriculture, livestock or agroalimentary industries
    • Y02P60/20—Reduction of greenhouse gas [GHG] emissions in agriculture, e.g. CO2
    • Y02P60/21—Dinitrogen oxide [N2O], e.g. using aquaponics, hydroponics or efficiency measures

Definitions

  • Various implementations include an expandable plant growth module.
  • the module includes a first panel, a second panel, a third panel, a plant canopy chamber, a root zone chamber, and a chamber motor.
  • the second panel defines a plant holder opening and is disposed between the first panel and the third panel.
  • the plant canopy chamber is at least partially defined by the first panel and the second panel, and the root zone chamber is at least partially defined by the second panel and the third panel.
  • the chamber motor is for adjusting the distance between the first panel and the second panel to accommodate growth of a plant canopy of a plant extending into the plant canopy chamber when the plant is disposed in the plant holder opening and for adjusting the distance between the second panel and the third panel to accommodate growth of a root of the plant extending into the root zone chamber when the plant is disposed in the plant holder opening.
  • the first panel includes at least one light configured to shine light toward the second panel.
  • the module does not include a chamber motor and, instead, includes a mechanical mechanism for manual operation of the distance between the first panel and the second panel and the distance between the second panel and the third panel. [0005]
  • the module further includes one or more extension arms.
  • the chamber motor causes the one or more extension arms to adjust the distance between the first panel and the second panel. In some implementations, the chamber motor causes the one or more extension arms to adjust the distance between the second panel and the third panel.
  • the module further includes at least one sensor for detecting at least one characteristic of the plant canopy chamber, the root zone chamber, or both. In some implementations, the module further includes a processor and a system memory. In some implementations, the processor is in operable communication with the at least one sensor and the chamber motor. In some implementations, the processor executes computer- readable instructions stored on the system memory.
  • the instructions cause the processor to compare the at least one characteristic of the plant canopy chamber, the root chamber, or both to an expected characteristic range, and cause the chamber motor to be actuated to adjust the distance between the first panel and the second panel and between the second panel and the third panel in response to the at least one characteristic of the plant canopy chamber, the root chamber, or both being outside of the expected characteristic range.
  • the at least one characteristic includes lighting levels.
  • the at least one characteristic includes temperature.
  • the at least one characteristic includes humidity.
  • the at least one characteristic includes air flow.
  • the sensor includes a camera.
  • the sensor includes LiDAR.
  • the at least one light includes an inner array of one or more lights and an outer array of one or more lights disposed concentrically outside of the inner array of one or more lights.
  • the module further includes at least one sensor for detecting light intensity of the plant canopy chamber.
  • the module further includes a processor and a system memory.
  • the processor is in operable communication with the at least one sensor, the inner array of one or more lights, and the outer array of one or more lights.
  • the processor executes computer-readable instructions stored on the system memory.
  • the instructions cause the processor to compare the light intensity of the plant canopy chamber to an expected light intensity range, cause the light output of the outer array of one or more lights to be adjusted in response to the light intensity being outside of the expected light intensity range, and, if the light intensity remains outside of the expected light intensity range, cause the light output of the inner array of one or more lights, the outer array of one or more lights, or both to be adjusted in response to the light intensity being outside of the expected light intensity range.
  • the second panel includes a reflective surface facing the at least one light of the first panel. In some implementations, the reflective surface defines a concave surface portion surrounding the plant holder opening.
  • the module further includes a plant canopy fan for circulating air through the plant canopy chamber.
  • the plant canopy fan includes an output linear slot diffuser.
  • the module further includes at least one sensor for detecting at least one characteristic of the plant canopy chamber.
  • the module further includes a processor and a system memory.
  • the processor is in operable communication with the at least one sensor and the plant canopy fan.
  • the processor executes computer-readable instructions stored on the system memory.
  • the instructions cause the processor to compare the at least one characteristic of the plant canopy chamber to an expected characteristic range and cause the speed of the plant canopy fan to be adjusted in response to the at least one characteristic being outside of the expected characteristic range.
  • the at least one characteristic includes humidity. In some implementations, the at least one characteristic includes temperature. In some implementations, the at least one characteristic includes CO2. In some implementations, the at least one characteristic includes boundary layer air velocity. [0012] In some implementations, the module further includes a root zone fan for circulating air through the root zone chamber. In some implementations, the root zone fan includes an output linear slot diffuser.
  • the module further includes at least one sensor for detecting at least one characteristic of the root zone chamber, and further comprising a processor and a system memory, the processor being in operable communication with the at least one sensor and the root zone fan, wherein the processor executes computer- readable instructions stored on the system memory, the instructions causing the processor to compare the at least one characteristic of the root zone chamber to an expected characteristic range and cause the speed of the root zone fan to be adjusted in response to the at least one characteristic being outside of the expected characteristic range.
  • the at least one characteristic includes humidity.
  • the at least one characteristic includes temperature.
  • the module further includes a water delivery system for supplying water directly to the substrate block of the plant substrate assembly.
  • the water delivery system includes a reservoir and a pump for causing the water to flow from the reservoir to the substrate block.
  • the module further includes at least one wall. In some implementations, the at least one wall at least partially defines the plant canopy chamber and the root zone chamber.
  • FIG.1A is a top perspective view of an expandable plant growth module, according to one implementation.
  • FIG.1B is a bottom perspective view of the module of FIG.1A.
  • FIG.2A is a top perspective view of the module of FIG.1A with the first panel, the second panel, and the third panel shown semi-transparently.
  • FIG.2B is a bottom perspective view of the back of the module of FIG.1A with the second panel shown semi-transparently.
  • FIG.3A is a top perspective view of the plant holder opening of the module of FIG.1A.
  • FIG.3B is a top perspective view of the plant holder opening of the module of FIG.1A with the plant substrate assembly of FIGS.4A-4C disposed within the plant holder opening.
  • FIG.4A is a top perspective view of the plant substrate assembly of FIG.3B.
  • FIG.4B is a bottom perspective view of the plant substrate assembly of FIG. 3B.
  • FIG.4C is a cross-sectional view of the plant substrate assembly of FIG.3B along line A-A.
  • FIG.5 is a top perspective view of the module of FIG.1A in the first position.
  • FIG.6 is a top perspective view of the water delivery system of the module of FIG.1A.
  • the devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein provide for a high efficiency modular food production system for extreme environments and areas where resources are scarce.
  • the devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein provide a solution for fresh plant production in areas where climate is limiting and/or growing space is limited, such as disaster zones, urban food deserts, space exploration, and remote villages in northern cold regions.
  • the modules disclosed herein are energy efficient, compact for shipment, and generate less waste compared to conventional systems.
  • the disclosed systems can improve the efficiency and productivity of vertical farming and plant factory.
  • the system is also ideal in supplying fresh food locally where resources for plant production are limited.
  • the disclosed modules use a combination of hydroponic technology and air pruning techniques.
  • Air pruning allows for control of root zone growth which has benefits on nutrient uptake, as well as reducing inedible biomass.
  • the modules can be highly automated with actuated irrigation, and environmental control.
  • Various implementations include an expandable canopy chamber. The top of the chamber can expand upwardly using a scissor lift controlled by a servo motor.
  • the expandable capability allows for modular stacking of modules at different growth cycles. According to one implementation, one fully expanded module occupies 0.01905 m 3 of space, and 96 fully expanded modules can fit in a 2 m 3 space. Overtime a continuous supply of produce will be achieved while using less volume than a completely expanded system.
  • Lighting in the modules can be adaptable to specific growth stages, thus saving energy over time.
  • the modules are unique in that they can grow a variety of crops including leafy greens as well as root crops. When used in space, the modules have the potential to supplement a large portion of astronauts’ daily nutrient requirements. The modules also have various terrestrial applications specifically in remote locations with scarce resources.
  • the modules use a hybrid hydroponic drip system as their primary method of water delivery. Water is pumped to the plant substrate assembly and flows gently onto the substrate block. Capillary action can help disperse the water throughout the substrate block and onto the roots. Both aerial and root zone environments are controlled to increase the shoot-to-root ratio and edible-to-inedible ratio. This system is water efficient and allows for complete automation and control of irrigation.
  • Hardware for the modules is focused on monitoring and control of the plant growth environment.
  • Temperature and humidity can be monitored in the shoot and root chamber. Each can be monitored by a low-power digital humidity and temperature sensor. Levels can be controlled through adjusting airflow via fans in both chambers. Substrate moisture levels can be monitored using sensors and influent water can be controlled by upstream solenoid valves. Finally, plant canopy growth can be monitored along with lighting levels using camera sensing and quantum sensors for photosynthetic active radiation. Light levels can be controlled by expansion of the aerial chamber, actuated by servo motor drivers, and by selective powering of concentric ringed lighting above each plant. Water level, temperature and humidity, and lighting can all be monitored and displayed in real time on a graphical user interface (GUI) control panel that can include a caution and warning system (CWS) for temperature, water, and light levels.
  • GUI graphical user interface
  • the disclosed modules utilize hydroponic techniques along with air pruning of the roots.
  • a substrate holder can be in line with the water source. As water is pumped through the system, the water can gently ooze out of the nozzle holes, directly onto the substrate block and soak the roots.
  • the substrate holder can be a single chamber with fine aeration holes that can expose the roots to air. These exposed roots can be controlled using air pruning.
  • a second mesh layer of protection can be added to minimize loose substrate particles.
  • the holder can have semi serrated edges to keep the substrate block in place.
  • the module can also include a return line from the inlet and outlet portions of the holder so that adequate pressure is developed.
  • the modules also include an expandable modular design. Each growth module can have the capability to be stacked and be vertically adjustable.
  • Scissor lifts can be operated via servo motors lifting the shoot chamber, or the shoot chamber can be raised manually.
  • the adjustable capability can allow for multiple modules to contain different variety of crops at different sizes and growth stages. Therefore, vertical space efficiency can improve over time. As the plants grow, full size plants are harvested, removed from the stack and replaced with other smaller plants.
  • Lighting can also be an adjustable feature of the modules. At the top of the chamber there can be two light rings with an inner ring covering 1 ⁇ 4 of the growing area in comparison to the outer ring.
  • the modules can achieve a desired Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density (PPFD) while minimizing required lighting throughout the production cycle.
  • PPFD Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density
  • the inner light can be at a low intensity and at a close distance to the plant.
  • the inner ring light output can increase with the increased light/plant distance, then the outer ring can be turned on still maintaining the same PPFD as the plants grow larger.
  • This adjustable mechanism can have 30% energy savings based on a lettuce canopy growth survey.
  • the modules can also utilize an air pruning technique which is both favorable for the plant as well as reducing volume usage. Air pruning occurs when roots are exposed to air to control their growth and length. Studies have found that approximately half of root biomass in normally potted plants is distributed to the outer 20% of the pot, leading to unfavorable root conditions. Well-developed root systems lead to better nutrient absorption and higher rates of photosynthesis.
  • Constraining root expansion can also result in a smaller root ball, and therefore, less substrate is needed to grow the plant. Less substrate can help reduce mass and volume requirements for the material transport. Additionally, reducing root volume can reduce inedible waste and, in turn, increase the edible to inedible plant ratio.
  • the module can also allow root zone environmental control that would facilitate root pressure management as an additional tool for transpiration regulation. [0037]
  • a novel approach to addressing energy usage by the modules is by controlling the natural plant phenomenon: transpiration. During transpiration, water is absorbed through the roots and then transported to the leaves through the xylem where the water may be used for photosynthesis or transpired. Depending on the growth stage of plants, as much as 95% of the water absorbed can be transpired.
  • Transpiration control can be accomplished by changing the environmental conditions surrounding the plant. Many factors influence the transpiration rate of plants including temperature, relative humidity, air speed, and carbon dioxide.
  • a system that controls plant transpiration is also applicable to indoor farming as the plant environment can be easily controlled to minimize water usage and subsequent biofilm growth.
  • Biofilms pose a health risk as they can harbor pathogens as well as take nutrients and light from the plants. Biofilm cleaning can also result in a major labor cost.
  • Development of biofilms has already been observed on the ISS and has jeopardized spacesuits, water units, radiators, and windows. Determining a way to control biofilm development will be paramount for the implementation of lettuce growth on a space vessel as well as on Earth.
  • the module can use plastic sheeting for the walls to minimize biofilm growth. This sheeting can also include a spray on biocide which is not harmful to the growth of lettuce.
  • Transpiration control has benefits for both space and terrestrial applications as it can save energy cost and overall water usage. However, it is a balancing act of a complex biological system. Plants require most of the water to be transpired to create a gradient that transports nutrients and carbohydrates to all parts of the plant. Additionally, the control of transportation using passive transport of relative humidity and temperature is limited to the added heat by lights and water vapor expelled by the plants. Thus, the transpiration rate can only be changed so much without the addition of a heat lamp or water source. [0040] Various implementations include an expandable plant growth module. The module includes a first panel, a second panel, a third panel, a plant canopy chamber, a root zone chamber, and a chamber motor.
  • the second panel defines a plant holder opening and is disposed between the first panel and the third panel.
  • the plant canopy chamber is at least partially defined by the first panel and the second panel
  • the root zone chamber is at least partially defined by the second panel and the third panel.
  • the chamber motor is for adjusting the distance between the first panel and the second panel to accommodate growth of a plant canopy of a plant extending into the plant canopy chamber when the plant is disposed in the plant holder opening and for adjusting the distance between the second panel and the third panel to accommodate growth of a root of the plant extending into the root zone chamber when the plant is disposed in the plant holder opening.
  • the first panel includes at least one light configured to shine light toward the second panel.
  • FIGS.1-5 show an expandable plant growth module 100, according to aspects of various implementations.
  • the module 100 includes a first panel 110, a second panel 120, a third panel 130, a plant canopy chamber 116, a root zone chamber 126, a chamber motor 104, a wall 136, and a controller 140.
  • the first panel 110 has a first side 112 and a second side 114 opposite and spaced apart from the first side 112 of the first panel 110.
  • the second panel 120 also has a first side 122 and a second side 124 opposite and spaced apart from the first side 122 of the first panel 120.
  • the third panel 130 further has a first side 132 and a second side 134 opposite and spaced apart from the first side 132 of the first panel 130.
  • the second panel 120 is disposed between the first panel 110 and the third panel 130 such that the second side 114 of the first panel 110 faces the first side 122 of the second panel 120 and the second side 124 of the second panel 120 faces the first side 132 of the third panel 130.
  • the wall 136 is a flexible material that extends around the outer edges of the first panel 110, the second panel 120, and the third panel 130 to enclose the spaces between the panels.
  • the plant canopy chamber 116 is defined by the space between the second side 114 of the first panel 110, the first side 122 of the second panel 120, and a portion of the wall 136.
  • the root zone chamber 126 is defined by the space between the second side 124 of the second panel 120, the first side 132 of the third panel 130, and another portion of the wall 136.
  • the module 100 shown in FIGS.1-3B and 5 includes one wall 136 extending around the first panel 110, the second panel 120, and the third panel 130, in some implementations, the module includes more than wall.
  • the wall 136 is made of a material that is airtight to keep the gases and moisture from the plant canopy chamber 116 and the root zone chamber 126 inside of the module 100.
  • the wall 136 in FIGS.1-3B and 5 is transparent, but in some implementations, one or more portions of the wall are transparent, translucent, or opaque.
  • the module 100 shown in FIGS.1-3B, 5, and 6 includes accommodations for only one plant, in some implementations, the module can include any length, width, and height and other features to accommodate two or more plants.
  • the third panel 130 of the module 100 includes a controller 140.
  • the controller 140 includes a processor 142 and a system memory 144.
  • the processor 142 executes computer-readable instructions stored on the system memory 144, which cause the processor 142 to perform various functions.
  • the second panel 120 defines a plant holder opening 150 extending from the first side 122 of the second panel 120 to the second side 124 of the second panel 120.
  • the first side 122 of the second panel 120 further defines a reflective, concave surface portion 152 surrounding the plant holder opening 150.
  • the reflective, concave surface portion 152 helps reflect and direct light that is not absorbed by the plant back upward toward the sides of the plant canopy.
  • the plant holder opening 150 is configured to accept a plant substrate assembly 154, as shown in FIGS.3A and 3B.
  • the plant substrate assembly 154 includes a substrate block 156 in which the plant grows and a water delivery system 158.
  • the water delivery system 158 includes a substrate holder 160 and a water reservoir 162 included in the third panel 130.
  • the water reservoir 162 can be filled using a water input port 164.
  • the water reservoir 162 is also removable from the third panel 130 such that the water reservoir 162 can alternatively be filled externally from the module 100.
  • the third panel 130 further includes a pump 166 in fluidic communication with the water reservoir 162, and a tube 163 extends from the pump 166, through a portion of one of the scissor extension arms 102, and is couplable to a port 161 of a substrate holder 160.
  • the location of the tube 163 within the scissor extension arm 102 minimizes the possibility of the tube 163 getting tangled, snagged, or kinked during expansion of the module 100.
  • Each substrate holder 160 includes a port 161 that is the same size such that the tube 163 can be couplable to a wide variety of sizes/shapes of plant substrate assemblies and allows plant substrate assemblies to be exchanged between modules easily without extensive plumbing.
  • the pump 166 is for causing the water within the water reservoir 162 to flow from the water reservoir 162 to the substrate holder 160.
  • the pump 166 is disposed within the water reservoir 162 such that, if the pump 166 fails, the entire water reservoir 162 can be replaced along with the pump 166 rather than needing to repair the pump 166.
  • the water flowing from the water reservoir 162 into the substrate holder 160 is evenly distributed from openings in the substrate holder 160 directly into the substrate block 156. Thus, the water from the substrate holder 160 is never placed into the air surrounding the substrate block 156. This provides the benefit of not having loose water present in the air in low gravity.
  • the water placed directly onto the substrate block 156 is then moved throughout the substrate block 156 by the capillary effect.
  • the substrate block 156 includes a moisture meter 168 for measuring the amount of water present in the substrate block 156.
  • the moisture meter 168 is in operable communication with the processor 142 of the controller 140.
  • the computer-readable instructions stored on the system memory 144 cause the processor 142 to compare the amount of water present in the substrate block 156 that is measured by the moisture meter 168 to a predetermined expected range of moisture. If the amount of water present in the substrate block 156 is lower than the predetermined expected range of moisture, then the processor 142 causes the pump 166 to be actuated to cause water to flow from the water reservoir 162 to the substrate holder 160 and into the substrate block 156.
  • the second side 114 of the first panel 110 includes an inner ring of lights 170 and an outer ring of lights 172 disposed concentrically outside of the inner ring of lights 170.
  • the inner ring of lights 170 includes sixteen lights and the outer ring of lights 172 includes sixteen lights.
  • the lights are located and oriented such that a desired beam angle of the lights is achieved in the plant canopy chamber 116.
  • the lights shown in FIGS.1-3B and 5 are LED lights, but in some implementations, the lights can be any type of lights, such as incandescent or halogen.
  • the second side of the first panel includes any number of rings of lights.
  • the second side of the first panel includes any array of lights.
  • the inner ring of lights has any number of lights.
  • the outer ring of lights has any number of lights.
  • the module 100 includes a camera 146 within the plant canopy chamber 116 that can be used for detecting the light intensity of the plant canopy chamber 116.
  • the processor 142 is in operable communication with the camera 146, the inner ring of lights 170, and the outer ring of lights 172.
  • the computer-readable instructions stored on the system memory 144 of the controller 140 cause the processor 142 to first activate the inner ring of lights 170.
  • the instructions then cause the processor 142 to compare the light intensity of the plant canopy chamber 116 as measured by the camera 146 to an expected light intensity range. If the light intensity is outside of the expected light intensity range, the instructions then cause the processor 142 to enable the outer ring of lights 172. If the light intensity is still outside of the expected light intensity range or if it later becomes outside of the expected light intensity range, the instructions then cause the processor 142 to cause the light output of the inner ring of lights 170, the outer ring of lights 172, or both to be adjusted until the camera 146 measures light intensity in the expected light intensity range.
  • the instructions cause the processor to cause the light output of the inner ring of lights to increase in response to the measured light intensity being outside of the expected light intensity range prior to activating the outer ring of lights. Once the outer ring of lights is activated, the light output of the outer ring of lights can be increased as needed and as described above.
  • the light intensity of the plant canopy chamber 116 is measured by a camera 146 in the module 100 shown in FIGS.1-3B and 5, in some implementations, the light intensity of the plant canopy chamber is measured by one or more separate lighting sensors.
  • the first panel 110 and the second panel 120 are connected to each other by two sets of scissor extension arms 102.
  • the second panel 120 and the third panel 130 are connected to each other by two sets of scissor arms 102.
  • the second panel 120 includes two worm gears 106 that are both driven by the chamber motor 104 which is a single servo motor.
  • the ends of the each of the scissor extension 102 arms are coupled to one of the worm gears 106 such that, when the chamber motor 104 is actuated, the worm gears 106 cause the scissor extension arms 102 to move the first panel 110 and the third panel 130 between a first position (shown in FIG.5) and a second position (shown in FIGS.1A-3B).
  • the module 100 shown in FIGS.1-3B and 5 includes four scissor extension arms 102, in some implementations, the module includes any number of extension arms. In some implementations, the module includes any other type of extension arms capable of moving the first panel and the third panel between the first position and the second position. In some implementations, the module includes any other mechanism capable of moving the first panel and the third panel between the first position and the second position.
  • the module 100 shown in FIGS.1-3B and 5 includes worm gears 106 for transmitting the forces from the chamber motor 104 to the extension arms 102, in some implementations, the module includes any other transmission system known in the art. Although the module 100 shown in FIGS.1-3B and 5 includes a servo motor, in some implementations, the module includes any other force mechanism capable of supplying enough force to the extension arms to move the first panel and the third panel between the first position and the second position, such as electric actuators, pneumatic actuators, or hydraulics.
  • the module 100 shown in FIGS.1-3B and 5 includes only one chamber motor 104 for causing the first panel 110 and the third panel 130 to move between the first position and the second position
  • the module can include two or more chamber motors, or any other type of force mechanism, to cause the first panel and the third panel to move between the first position and the second position.
  • the two or more chamber motors can cause the first panel and the third panel to move independently of each other.
  • the first panel 110 and the third panel 130 can be moved between the first position and the second position based on various controller 140 instructions.
  • One reason for moving the positions of the first panel 110 and the third panel 130 is plant growth.
  • the chamber motor 104 can adjust the distance between the first panel 110 and the second panel 120 to accommodate growth of a plant canopy of a plant extending into the plant canopy chamber 116 when the plant is disposed in the plant holder opening 150. Also, the distance between the second panel 120 and the third panel 130 can be adjusted to accommodate growth of a root of the plant extending into the root zone chamber 126 when the plant is disposed in the plant holder opening 150. However, it is beneficial to maintain the module 100 at as small of a size as possible during the growth process for space savings. As the plants reach a harvesting size, the plants can be harvested, a new plant can be started in the module 100, and the size of the module 100 can again be reduced.
  • the camera 146 used for measuring light intensity can also be used to determine the growth stage of the plant by measuring the size of the canopy of the plant.
  • the processor 142 is in operable communication with the chamber motor 104 to expand the plant canopy chamber 116 as needed to maintain a minimal distance from the inner ring of lights 170 and the outer ring of lights 172.
  • the processor 142 executes the computer-readable instructions stored on the system memory 144 which cause the processor 142 to compare the size of the of the canopy of the plant to an expected canopy size range.
  • the instructions then cause the processor 142 to cause the chamber motor 104 to be actuated to adjust the distance between the first panel 110 and the second panel 120 and between the second panel 120 and the third panel 130 in response to the size of the canopy of the plant being outside of the expected canopy size range.
  • the instructions cause the processor 142 to cause an alert (e.g., a light or sound) to the user that the plant is ready to be harvested.
  • the camera or a different camera, can be used to measure size of the root of the plant in the root zone chamber and the processor can cause the chamber motor to adjust the first panel and the third panel between the first position and the second position based on the root size in the same way as described above with respect to the canopy size.
  • This approach would be beneficial for root crops, such as potatoes or radishes.
  • the instructions cause the processor to compare a characteristic of both the plant canopy chamber and the root zone chamber to an expected characteristic range and cause the chamber motor to adjust the heights of the chambers based on the comparison.
  • the module 100 shown in FIGS.1-3B and 5 utilize a camera 146 to determine size of the canopy of the plant
  • the module uses any other size measuring device, such as LiDAR.
  • the module 100 in FIGS.1-3B and 5 measures the visual size of the canopy of the plant, however in some implementations, the module uses any other characteristic of the plant canopy chamber, the root zone chamber, or both in the adjustment of the canopy sizes, such as the lighting levels of one or both canopies, the temperature of one or both canopies, the humidity of one or both canopies, or any other characteristic of one or both canopies indicative of the plant size.
  • the movement of the plant canopy chamber and the root zone chamber between the first position and the second position can be performed manually.
  • the second panel 120 further includes a plant canopy fan 180 for circulating air through the plant canopy chamber 116.
  • the plant canopy fan 180 includes an output linear slot diffuser 182 that is located on the first side 122 of the second panel 120 such that the output linear slot diffuser 182 is in fluid communication with the plant canopy chamber 116.
  • the plant canopy fan 180 causes the air movement within the plant canopy chamber 116 to meet set points related to photosynthetic efficiency and transpiration rate.
  • the plant canopy fan 180 includes a linear slot diffuser 182
  • the plant canopy fan includes any other type of diffuser to achieve any desired air flow distribution within the plant canopy chamber.
  • the plant canopy chamber 116 includes a temperature sensor 184 for measuring the temperature of the plant canopy chamber 116.
  • the processor 142 is in operable communication with the temperature sensor 184 and the plant canopy fan 180.
  • the processor 142 executes computer-readable instructions stored on the system memory 144, which cause the processor 142 to compare the temperature of the plant canopy chamber 116 to an expected temperature range.
  • the instructions then cause the processor 142 to cause the speed of the plant canopy fan 180 to be adjusted in response to the temperature being outside of the expected temperature range.
  • the increased rotational speed of the plant canopy fan 180 causes an increase in the pressure differential across the plant canopy fan 180, which causes an increase of air flow from the output linear slot diffuser 182 and through the plant canopy chamber 116.
  • the module 100 shown in FIGS.1-3B and 5 controls the plant canopy fan 180 based on measured temperature, in some implementations, the module measures humidity, CO 2 levels, boundary layer air velocity, or any other one or more characteristic indicative of the necessity for air flow within the plant canopy chamber.
  • the third panel 130 further includes a root zone fan 186 for circulating air through the root zone chamber 126 and for air pruning of the roots extending into the root zone chamber 126.
  • One of the benefits of the disclosed growth module 100 design is the control over root volume to increase useable/unable ration of the produced plant.
  • the root zone climate control is to regulate temperature and humidity to air-prune roots as well as providing an ideal environment for root pressure regulation (related to plant water transport functions such as transpiration and guttation).
  • the root zone fan 186 includes an output linear slot diffuser 188 that is located on the first side 132 of the third panel 130 such that the output linear slot diffuser 188 is in fluid communication with the root zone chamber 126.
  • the root zone fan 186 includes a linear slot diffuser 188, in some implementations, the root zone fan includes any other type of diffuser to achieve any desired air flow distribution within the root zone chamber.
  • the root zone chamber 126 includes a humidity sensor 190 for measuring the level of relative humidity in the root zone chamber 126.
  • the processor 142 is in operable communication with the humidity sensor 190 and the root zone fan 186.
  • the processor 142 executes computer-readable instructions stored on the system memory 144, which cause the processor 142 to compare the relative humidity level of the root zone chamber 126 to an expected relative humidity range. The instructions then cause the processor 142 to cause the speed of the root zone fan 186 to be adjusted in response to the relative humidity level being outside of the expected relative humidity range.
  • the increased rotational speed of the root zone fan 186 causes an increase in the pressure differential across the root zone fan 186, which causes an increase of air flow from the output linear slot diffuser 188 and through the root zone chamber 126.
  • the module 100 shown in FIGS.1-3B and 5 controls the root zone fan 186 based on measured relative humidity levels, in some implementations, the module measures temperature or any other one or more characteristic indicative of the necessity for air flow within the root zone chamber.
  • the first panel 110 of the module 100 includes an air exchange fan 192 for exhausting air out of the module 100 and for pulling fresh air into the module 100 to refresh CO 2 levels within the module 100.
  • the air exchange fan 192 includes an air exchange inlet 194 on the second side 114 of the first panel 110 and a diffuser 196 that is located on the first side 112 of the first panel 110 such that the air exchange inlet 194 is in fluid communication with the plant canopy chamber 116 and the diffuser 196 is in fluid communication with ambient air external to the module 100.
  • the plant canopy chamber 116 includes a CO 2 sensor 198 for measuring the level of CO 2 in the plant canopy chamber 116.
  • the processor 142 is in operable communication with the air exchange fan 192 and the CO 2 sensor 198.
  • the processor 142 executes computer-readable instructions stored on the system memory 144, which cause the processor 142 to compare the relative temperature, humidity levels, and the CO 2 levels from the temperature sensor 184, the humidity sensor 190, and the CO 2 sensor 198, respectively, to a maximum temperature, a maximum relative humidity level, and a minimum CO 2 level.
  • the instructions then cause the processor 142 to cause the air exchange fan 192 to be actuated in response to the temperature, relative humidity level, and/or the CO 2 level being over the maximum temperature, the maximum relative humidity level, and the minimum CO 2 level.
  • the actuation of the air exchange fan 192 causes an increase in the pressure differential across the air exchange fan 192, which causes an increase of air flow to/from the module 100 to/from ambient air that is external of the module 100.
  • the module 100 shown in FIGS.1-3B and 5 controls the air exchange fan 198 based on measured temperature, relative humidity levels, and CO 2 levels
  • the module measures any other one or more characteristic indicative of the necessity for air exchange within the module.
  • the air exchange fan is a dedicated exhaust fan, and the module further includes a fresh air fan dedicated to causing air to flow from external to the module into the module.

Landscapes

  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Environmental Sciences (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Toxicology (AREA)
  • Cultivation Of Plants (AREA)

Abstract

Divers modes de réalisation comprennent un module extensible de culture de plantes. Le module comprend un premier panneau, un second panneau, un troisième panneau, une chambre de canopée de plante, une chambre de zone racinaire et un moteur de chambre. Le second panneau définit une ouverture de support de plante et est disposé entre les premier et troisième panneaux. La chambre de canopée de plante est au moins partiellement définie par les premier et second panneaux, et la chambre de zone racinaire est au moins partiellement définie par les second et troisième panneaux. Le moteur de chambre régule la distance entre les premier et second panneaux pour s'adapter à la croissance d'une canopée de plante dans la chambre de canopée de plante et la distance entre les second et troisième panneaux pour s'adapter à la croissance de racines dans la chambre de zone racinaire lorsqu'une plante est disposée dans l'ouverture de support de plante. Le premier panneau comprend au moins une lumière pour projeter de la lumière vers le second panneau.
PCT/US2022/039061 2021-07-30 2022-08-01 Module de production d'aliments en intérieur à haut rendement et à faible consommation WO2023009893A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US202163227617P 2021-07-30 2021-07-30
US63/227,617 2021-07-30

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2023009893A1 true WO2023009893A1 (fr) 2023-02-02

Family

ID=85087274

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2022/039061 WO2023009893A1 (fr) 2021-07-30 2022-08-01 Module de production d'aliments en intérieur à haut rendement et à faible consommation

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2023009893A1 (fr)

Citations (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4860490A (en) * 1988-02-16 1989-08-29 Tuskegee University Movable root contact-pressure plate assembly for hydroponic system
US20050034367A1 (en) * 2003-06-12 2005-02-17 Morrow Robert C. Expandable plant growth system
US20090307973A1 (en) * 2008-06-17 2009-12-17 Zakery Ward Adams Vertically Integrated Greenhouse
US20170223912A1 (en) * 2014-10-21 2017-08-10 Avid Growing Systems Inc. System, apparatus and method for growing marijuana
US20180356053A1 (en) * 2017-06-13 2018-12-13 Industrial Technology Research Institute Led light source module and method for light irradiation thereof
WO2020023504A1 (fr) * 2018-07-23 2020-01-30 Heliponix, Llc Système automatisé de croissance de plante
US20200134741A1 (en) * 2018-02-20 2020-04-30 Osram Gmbh Controlled Agricultural Systems and Methods of Managing Agricultural Systems
KR20200120006A (ko) * 2019-04-11 2020-10-21 경일대학교산학협력단 수경 재배를 위한 장치 및 이를 위한 방법
US20210015056A1 (en) * 2019-07-17 2021-01-21 Jeffery Charles Main Aeration and Irrigation Apparatus for Plants and Seeds

Patent Citations (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4860490A (en) * 1988-02-16 1989-08-29 Tuskegee University Movable root contact-pressure plate assembly for hydroponic system
US20050034367A1 (en) * 2003-06-12 2005-02-17 Morrow Robert C. Expandable plant growth system
US20090307973A1 (en) * 2008-06-17 2009-12-17 Zakery Ward Adams Vertically Integrated Greenhouse
US20170223912A1 (en) * 2014-10-21 2017-08-10 Avid Growing Systems Inc. System, apparatus and method for growing marijuana
US20180356053A1 (en) * 2017-06-13 2018-12-13 Industrial Technology Research Institute Led light source module and method for light irradiation thereof
US20200134741A1 (en) * 2018-02-20 2020-04-30 Osram Gmbh Controlled Agricultural Systems and Methods of Managing Agricultural Systems
WO2020023504A1 (fr) * 2018-07-23 2020-01-30 Heliponix, Llc Système automatisé de croissance de plante
KR20200120006A (ko) * 2019-04-11 2020-10-21 경일대학교산학협력단 수경 재배를 위한 장치 및 이를 위한 방법
US20210015056A1 (en) * 2019-07-17 2021-01-21 Jeffery Charles Main Aeration and Irrigation Apparatus for Plants and Seeds

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US9974243B2 (en) Systems, methods, and devices for aeroponic plant growth
US10709076B2 (en) Smart cabinet for home gardening
KR101034513B1 (ko) 수경재배장치
CN107426977B (zh) 具有模拟自然光照条件的植物室内栽培系统
US10034435B2 (en) Self-sustaining artificially controllable environment within a storage container or other enclosed space
US6061957A (en) Plant growth system with collapsible rib structure
CN203590790U (zh) 一种一体式智能控制植物培育设备
US9101096B1 (en) Semi-automated crop production system
NL2020982B9 (en) Mushroom growing apparatus
CN103477911A (zh) 空间植物培养装置
CN102668964A (zh) 一种植物工厂
CN106258916B (zh) 一种多功能无土栽培装置及其应用
Prince et al. CELSS breadboard project at the Kennedy Space Center
WO2021061064A2 (fr) Modules de culture intérieure aéroponique et ultrasonore de plantes
US20230165203A1 (en) System and Method for Cultivation of Plants
CN206212814U (zh) 智能种植蔬菜装置
CN109566181A (zh) 一种垂直农场及其空气调控方法
WO2023009893A1 (fr) Module de production d'aliments en intérieur à haut rendement et à faible consommation
US20170183615A1 (en) Biomass production system and apparatus
AU2018218788B2 (en) Method and device for cultivating a crop
CN206433518U (zh) 设施园艺水培植物展示柜
CN205946818U (zh) 一种集装式农业生产系统
Wheeler NASA's controlled environment agriculture testing for space habitats
JP2016082955A (ja) セパレーション技術を用いた噴霧水耕栽培法
WO2019246197A1 (fr) Système évolutif de production d'énergie et de récolte biorégénérative pour une utilisation terrestre et non terrestre

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 22850416

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE