WO2023225361A1

WO2023225361A1 - Methods and systems for specimen propagation

Info

Publication number: WO2023225361A1
Application number: PCT/US2023/022992
Authority: WO
Inventors: Reuben Paul VOLLMER II
Original assignee: Vollmer Ii Reuben Paul
Priority date: 2022-05-19
Filing date: 2023-05-19
Publication date: 2023-11-23

Abstract

Systems and devices for specimen propagation may include: a growth chamber configured to receive a growth vessel; environmental sensor(s) configured to determine environmental parameter(s) in the growth chamber; environmental controller(s) configured to modify the environmental parameter(s) in the growth chamber; a light source configured to direct light towards the growth vessel; and a processing unit configured to provide instruction to the environmental controller(s) based on input data received from the environmental controller(s) or external input. Methods and techniques for specimen propagation may include: obtaining input data from environmental sensor(s) or external input, wherein the environmental sensor(s) are configured to determine environmental parameter(s) inside a growth chamber configured to receive a growth vessel, wherein the growth chamber comprises a light source configured to direct light towards the growth vessel; and providing instruction to environmental controller(s) configured to modify the environmental parameter(s) in the growth chamber based on the input data.

Description

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR SPECIMEN PROPAGATION

CROSS-REFERENCE

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/343,659, filed May 19, 2022, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Mushrooms may be an enlarged complex aboveground fleshy fruiting body of a fungus (e.g., a basidiomycete) that may include a stem bearing a pileus. Many mushrooms are the fruit bodies of members of the order Agaricales, whose type genus is Agaricus and type species is the field mushroom, Agaricus campestris. However, in modern molecularly-defined classifications, not all members of the order Agaricales produce mushroom fruit bodies, and many other gilled fungi, collectively called mushrooms, occur in other orders of the class Agaricomycetes. For example, chanterelles are in the Cantharellales, false chanterelles such as Gomphus are in the Gomphales, milk-cap mushrooms (Lactarius, Lactifluus) and russulas (Russula), as well as Lentinellus, are in the Russulales, while the tough, leathery genera Lentinus and Panus are among the Polyporales, but Neolentinus is in the Gloeophyllales, and the little pin-mushroom genus, Rickenella, along with similar genera, are in the Hymenochae tales. Within the main body of mushrooms, in the Agaricales, are common fungi like the common fairy-ring mushroom, shiitake, enoki, oyster mushrooms, fly agarics and other Amanitas, magic mushrooms like species of Psilocybe, paddy straw mushrooms, shaggy manes, etc. Other mushrooms are not gilled. Some mushrooms have pores underneath (e.g., boletes), some mushrooms have spines, such as the hedgehog mushroom and other tooth fungi, and so on. Additional mushroom species include polypores, puffballs, jelly fungi, coral fungi, bracket fungi, stinkhorns, and cup fungi. [0003] Many species of mushroom fruit and colonize their respective growth substrates very rapidly, whereas some mushroom species take more extended periods of time to mature. For example, the cultivated mushroom, as well as the common field mushroom, initially form a minute fruiting body, referred to as the pin stage because of their small size. Slightly expanded, they are called buttons, because of the relative size and shape. Once such stages are formed, the mushroom can efficiently hold moisture from its mycelium and expand, such as by inflating preformed cells. Similarly, there are other mushrooms, like Parasola plicatilis may grow rapidly overnight and may enter a dormancy period by late afternoon (e.g., on a hot day after rainfall). The primordia (early development stage of a mushroom) may form at ground level in humid spaces (e.g., after heavy rainfall in dewy conditions, etc.) and may balloon to full size in a few hours, release spores, and then collapse. Not all mushrooms expand overnight; some mushrooms may grow very slowly and add tissue to their fruiting bodies by growing from edges of a mushroom colony or via hyphae insertion.

[0004] Some mushrooms may be propagated by humans (e.g., an indoor environment, mushroom farms, fruiting chambers, etc.). Non-limiting examples of factors humans may contemplate when considering mushroom cultivation include by humans may include: (1) species selection - different species tend toward different yields and different amounts of maintenance throughout the cultivation or harvesting process; (2) acquisition or creation of mushroom spawn; (3) growth medium composition (e.g., straw, corn cobs, sawdust, banana leaves, cotton seed hulls, newspaper, cardboard, etc.) (4) growth medium treatment and sterilization (e.g., pasteurization, sterilization, lime bath, peroxide bath, cold fermentation, nutrient supplementation, etc). (6) inoculant selection; (7) inoculant maintenance; (8) substrate colonization (e.g., “the spawn run”); (9) attending to optimal pinning or fruiting conditions (e.g., controlling for temperature, light, humidity, and air flow for the chosen species); (10) handling of developed species selected for propagation (e.g., timing and methods for harvesting selected species, identification or documentation methods of propagated species, spore dispersal methods, etc.). Mushroom propagation processes, including the abovementioned operations performed by humans, can include meticulous operations and thorough monitoring of environmental conditions of the environment surrounding the mushrooms.

[0005] Mushrooms may be used for food, textiles, packing material, food additives, microscopy, medicinal purposes, therapeutic purposes, or aesthetic purposes.

SUMMARY

[0006] Provided herein are systems, methods, devices, and techniques for specimen propagation in a controlled environment via maintenance of environmental factors such as nutrient content, nutrient levels, atmospheric conditions (e.g., air flow, aeration, concentration of a gaseous or aqueous constituent, regulation of aqueous or gaseous constituents that are compatible (e.g., oxygen content, carbon dioxide content, nitrogen content, etc.), incompatible, or neutral to support of specimen growth, etc.), humidity levels, ambient temperature, air temperature, water temperature, growing medium pH, water pH, quality or quantity of light exposure, etc.

[0007] In one aspect, provided herein is a device for specimen propagation, comprising: a growth chamber configured to receive a growth vessel; one or more environmental sensors configured to determine one or more environmental parameters in the growth chamber; one or more environmental controllers configured to modify the one or more environmental parameters in the growth chamber; a light source configured to direct light towards the growth vessel; and a processing unit configured to provide instruction to the one or more environmental controllers based at least in part on input data received from the one or more environmental controllers or external input. In some embodiments, the growth vessel comprises a growing medium inoculated with fungal spores. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental parameters comprises a temperature inside the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the temperature inside the growth chamber comprises temperature of the growth vessel, temperature of the growing medium, temperature of a specimen in the growth vessel, temperature of air in the growth chamber, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental sensors comprise a temperature sensor configured to determine the temperature inside the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor comprises: (i) a container configured to house an aqueous solution positioned in direct contact with at least a portion of the growth vessel; and (ii) a thermometer, wherein at least a portion of the thermometer is submerged in the aqueous solution, and wherein the thermometer is configured to measure the temperature of the aqueous solution. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental controllers comprise a temperature controller configured to add or remove heat from the growth chamber, thereby modifying the temperature inside the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the temperature controller comprises: (i) a heater configured to apply heat to the container in response to the processing unit providing the instruction; (ii) a heat sink configured to remove heat from the container in response to the processing unit providing the instruction; or (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii). In some embodiments, the one or more environmental parameters comprises atmospheric parameters inside the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental sensors comprise an atmospheric sensor configured to determine an amount of an air constituent inside the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental controllers comprise an atmospheric controller configured to modify an air constituent inside the growth chamber, thereby modifying the atmospheric parameters inside the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the atmospheric controller comprises an air intake fan configured to draw external air from an external environment into the growth chamber in response to the processing unit providing the instruction. In some embodiments, the atmospheric controller further comprises an air intake filter configured to filter the external air prior to the external air entering the growth chamber in response to the processing unit providing the instruction. In some embodiments, the atmospheric controller further comprises an air exhaust blower configured to expel internal air from inside the growth chamber to the external environment in response to the processing unit providing the instruction. In some embodiments, the atmospheric controller further comprises an air exhaust filter configured to filter the internal air prior to the internal air entering the external environment in response to the processing unit providing the instruction. In some embodiments, the atmospheric controller is configured to modify a concentration of one or more air constituents in the growth chamber in response to the processing unit providing the instruction. In some embodiments, the one or more air constituents comprises carbon dioxide. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental parameters comprises humidity inside the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental sensors comprise a humidity sensor configured to determine the humidity inside the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental controllers comprise a humidity controller configured to modify the humidity in the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the humidity controller comprises a reservoir in connection with a humidifier, and wherein the humidity controller is configured to supply water or an aqueous solution in the reservoir to the humidifier in response to the processing unit providing the instruction. In some embodiments, the device further comprises: a reader configured to obtain specimen parameter data from the growth vessel and transmit the specimen parameter data to the processing unit as the external input, wherein the specimen parameter data is for a specimen corresponding to the growth vessel. In some embodiments, the specimen parameter data comprises growing instructions for the specimen corresponding to the growth vessel. In some embodiments, the specimen parameter data comprises an identifier for the specimen corresponding to the growth vessel. In some embodiments, the growth vessel is tagged with the specimen parameter data. In some embodiments, the growth vessel is tagged with a powerless indicator comprising one or more of a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, a quick response (QR) code, or a coded resistance band. In some embodiments, the light source comprises one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). In some embodiments, the LED is configured to emit red light in response to the processing unit providing the instruction. In some embodiments, the LED is configured to emit green light in response to the processing unit providing the instruction. In some embodiments, the LED is configured to emit blue light in response to the processing unit providing the instruction. In some embodiments, the light source is configured to emit ultraviolet (UV) light. In some embodiments, the light source is configured to direct the light in accordance with a schedule provided by the processing unit. In some embodiments, the external input comprises user input from a user. In some embodiments, the user input is obtained from the user via a mobile device. [0008] In another aspect, provided herein is a method for specimen propagation, comprising: (a) obtaining input data from one or more environmental sensors or external input, wherein the one or more environmental sensors are configured to determine one or more environmental parameters inside a growth chamber configured to receive a growth vessel, wherein the growth chamber comprises a light source configured to direct light towards the growth vessel; (b) providing instruction to one or more environmental controllers configured to modify the one or more environmental parameters in the growth chamber based at least in part on the input data. In some embodiments, the growth vessel comprises a growing medium inoculated with fungal spores. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental parameters comprises temperature inside the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the temperature inside the growth chamber comprises one or more of temperature of the growth vessel, temperature of the fungal spores, temperature of a specimen in the growth vessel, or temperature of air in the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental sensors comprise a temperature sensor configured to determine the temperature inside the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the temperature sensor comprises: (i) a container configured to house an aqueous solution positioned in direct contact with at least a portion of the growth vessel; and (ii) a thermometer, wherein at least a portion of the thermometer is submerged in the aqueous solution, and wherein the thermometer is configured to measure the temperature of the aqueous solution. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental controllers comprise a temperature controller configured to add or remove heat from the growth chamber, thereby modifying the temperature inside the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the temperature controller comprises one or both of: (i) a heater configured to apply heat to the container in response to the instruction; or (ii) a heat sink configured to remove heat from the container in response to the instruction. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental parameters comprises atmospheric parameters inside the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental sensors comprise an atmospheric sensor configured to determine an air constituent amount of air inside the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental controllers comprise an atmospheric controller configured to modify air constituents from air inside the growth chamber, thereby modifying the atmospheric parameters inside the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the atmospheric controller comprises an air intake fan configured to draw external air from an external environment into the growth chamber in response to the instruction. In some embodiments, the atmospheric controller further comprises an air intake filter configured to filter the external air prior to the external air entering the growth chamber in response to the instruction. In some embodiments, the atmospheric controller further comprises an air exhaust blower configured to expel internal air from inside the growth chamber to the external environment in response to the instruction. In some embodiments, the atmospheric controller further comprises an air exhaust filter configured to filter the internal air prior to the internal air entering the external environment in response to the instruction. In some embodiments, the atmospheric controller is configured to modify the concentration of one or more particles in the growth chamber in response to the instruction. In some embodiments, the one or more particles comprises carbon dioxide. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental parameters comprises humidity inside the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental sensors comprise a humidity sensor configured to determine the humidity inside the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental controllers comprise a humidity controller configured to modify the humidity in the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the humidity controller comprises a reservoir in aqueous connection with a humidifier, and wherein the humidity controller is configured to supply water or an aqueous solution in the reservoir to the humidifier in response to the instruction. In some embodiments, the method further comprises: obtaining specimen parameter data from the growth vessel; and providing the specimen parameter data to the one or more environmental controllers as the external input of the input data, wherein the specimen parameter data is for a specimen corresponding to the growth vessel. In some embodiments, the specimen parameter data comprises growing instructions for the specimen corresponding to the growth vessel. In some embodiments, the specimen parameter data comprises an identifier for the specimen corresponding to the growth vessel. In some embodiments, the growth vessel is tagged with the specimen parameter data. In some embodiments, the growth vessel is tagged with a powerless indicator comprising one or more of a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, a quick response (QR) code, or a coded resistance band. In some embodiments, the light source comprises one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). In some embodiments, the LED is configured to emit red light in response to the instruction. In some embodiments, the LED is configured to emit green light in response to the instruction. In some embodiments, the LED is configured to emit blue light in response to the instruction. In some embodiments, the light source is configured to emit ultraviolet (UV) light. In some embodiments, the light source is configured to direct the light in accordance with a schedule. In some embodiments, the external input comprises user input from a user. In some embodiments, the user input is obtained from the user via a mobile device.

[0009] In another aspect, provided herein is a device for specimen propagation, comprising: a growth vessel, comprising: (i) a growing medium inoculated with one or more reproductive structures for a specimen, and (ii) a tag configured to provide specimen parameter data for the specimen, wherein the growth vessel is configured to be received by a growth chamber. In some embodiments, the specimen comprises a fungus and the one or more reproductive structures comprise one or more fungal spores. In some embodiments, the specimen comprises a plant and the one or more reproductive structures comprise one or more seeds. In some embodiments, the tag is configured to be read by a reader configured to obtain the specimen parameter data from the tag. In some embodiments, the specimen parameter data comprises growing instructions for the specimen. In some embodiments, the specimen parameter data comprises an identifier for the specimen. In some embodiments, the tag is a powerless indicator comprising one or more of a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, a quick response (QR) code, or a coded resistance band. In some embodiments, the growth chamber is configured to determine one or more environmental parameters in the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the growth chamber is configured to modify the one or more environmental parameters in the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the one or more environmental parameters comprise one or more of a temperature inside the growth chamber, atmospheric parameters inside the growth chamber, or humidity inside the growth chamber. In some embodiments, the growth chamber comprises a light source configured to direct light towards the growth vessel.

[0010] In another aspect, provided herein are non-transitory computer-readable media comprising machine-executable code comprising one or more instructions that, upon execution, implement one or more methods of the present disclosure.

[0011] Additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in this art from the following detailed description, wherein only illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described. As will be realized, the present disclosure is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious respects, all without departing from the disclosure.

Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0012] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which: [0014] FIG. 1 illustrates a system configured to control environmental parameters within an example of an automated growth environment;

[0015] FIG. 2 illustrates another system configured to control environmental parameters within an example of an automated growth environment;

[0016] FIG. 3A illustrates a front view of an example of a growth chamber;

[0017] FIG. 3B illustrates a side view of the example of the growth chamber of FIG. 3A;

[0018] FIG. 3C illustrates a rear view of the example of the growth chamber of FIG. 3A; [0019] FIG. 4A illustrates various examples of growth chambers for specimen propagation;

[0020] FIG. 4B illustrates various examples of additional growth chambers for specimen propagation;

[0021] FIG. 4C illustrates various examples of additional growth chambers for specimen propagation;

[0022] FIG. 5 illustrates additional various examples of growth chambers for specimen propagation;

[0023] FIG. 6 illustrates yet another example of a growth chamber for specimen propagation;

[0024] FIG. 7 illustrates a method for specimen propagation within an example automated growth environment system; and

[0025] FIG. 8 illustrates a computer system that is programmed or otherwise configured to implement methods provided herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] The systems, the methods, the devices, and the techniques disclosed herein provide an example of a controlled environment for propagating a variety of specimens (e.g., flora, fungi, microorganisms, etc.) via the maintenance of various environmental factors such as nutrient content, nutrient levels, atmospheric conditions (e.g., air flow, aeration, concentration of a gaseous or aqueous constituent, regulation of aqueous or gaseous constituents that are compatible (e.g., oxygen content, carbon dioxide content, nitrogen content, etc.), incompatible, or neutral to support of specimen growth, etc.), humidity levels, ambient temperature, air temperature, water temperature, growing medium pH, water pH, and quality or quantity of light exposure.

[0027] Conventional techniques for maintaining optimal conditions to propagate a specimen at various stages of development have the potential to be time-consuming, costly, and labor- intensive, and poor management of the conditions for enabling growth or proliferation of a specimen may result in suboptimal growth. Various specimen cultivation processes can also involve equipment with the potential to introduce hinderances including financial expenditure, available physical space, or a lack of the skill suited for operating said equipment. A specimen for propagation may have different growth conditions in accordance with its genus or species. Further, the specimen may have different growth conditions at various stages of its development, life cycle, or growing cycle.

[0028] Furthermore, conventional techniques for preparing a specimen for propagation also have the potential to be rigorous processes, and when improperly handled, can affect the ability of the specimen to thrive in its growth environment or lower expected crop yields. For example, in the propagation of fungal specimens, the inoculation of fungal spores, or spawn, into a growth substrate or growing medium compatible with the genus or species of fungus selected for propagation, can be a laborious process and can introduce a high potential for errors including proliferation of other competing organisms, inability to provide a suitable amount of nutrients to support growth of the specimen, lack of availability of and accessibility to materials compatible with preparing the growing medium, unsustainable production of the growth substrate, use of an otherwise incompatible growth substrate, or other factors affecting growth of the specimen. In addition, the inoculation process may have associated environmental parameters to adhere to for properly preparing a specimen for propagation.

[0029] Advantageously, the employment of an automated controlled growth environment can provide a user the ability to propagate a variety of specimens, increase yield of the specimen produced, and minimize the use of human intervention in the management of the growth environment, thereby reducing the possibility for the introduction of factors arresting or reducing its growth. A user can employ the systems, the methods, the devices, and the techniques described herein for, by way of non-limiting examples, in order to grow specimens for culinary or medicinal consumption, produce material for manufactured items and raw materials (e.g., textiles, packing material, food additives, etc.), examine cultivated specimens for examination in a laboratory setting, or cultivate specimens for leisurely or aesthetic purposes.

[0030] The systems, the methods, the devices, and techniques disclosed herein further provide one or more growth vessels (e.g., one or more pods) for containing the specimen (or a reproductive structure of the specimen (e.g., seeds, spores, etc.)) and facilitating the initiation and proliferation of specimen growth through various stages of development in a growth chamber. Advantageously, providing a user with a pre-inoculated growth vessel configured to propagate a specimen selected by the user, for use in the automated controlled environment, can further facilitate the process for propagating the specimen by, for example, reducing time, cost, labor, and error involved in preparing a specimen. The growth vessels containing the specimen of the systems, the methods, the devices, and the techniques disclosed herein can optionally incorporate the storage and subsequent transmission of data relating to the growth conditions of the specimen to be propagated to the automated controlled environment, thereby providing the growth chamber with integrated components.

[0031] The systems, the methods, the devices, and the techniques may provide a processing unit for receiving and interpreting data concerning growth parameters can facilitate the interaction between the growth chamber and its integrated controllers. The growth chamber can optionally house the one or more growth vessels configured to propagate a specimen through multiple stages of development. In some cases, the growth vessels can be tagged with an indicator configured to store specimen parameter data. The specimen parameter data may include the genus or species of the specimen, growing instructions such as values for the one or more environmental parameters in accordance with, for example, stage of development, growth cycle speed, growth yield, number of growing cycles, specimen health, intensity or duration of light exposure, or any combination thereof. The growth chamber may employ the functionality of a reader to perform data exchanges between the growth chamber and an input, wherein the mode of data transmission can include radio-frequency identification (RFID), infrared (IR), detection of a physical characteristic, or any combination thereof. A processing unit administered by the growth chamber may process data from inputs including but not limited to, the reader, human intervention, the environmental sensors, or any combination thereof, and upon processing, may employ, optionally informed at least in part by the data obtained from the growth chamber, the adjustment of an environmental parameter via an environmental controller.

[0032] The systems, the methods, the devices, and the techniques may propagate specimens including one or more of flora, fauna (e.g., via incubating eggs), microbes, moss, lichen, coral, fungi, plants, flowers, cacti, grass, fruiting plants, trees, herbs, shrubs, climbers, creepers, fems, succulents, etc. In some cases, the systems, the methods, the devices, and the techniques disclosed herein may be applicable to various types of mushrooms. For example, applicable mushrooms may include Hericium coralloides (coral tooth fungus) Pleurotus ostreatus (oyster), Lentinula edodes (shiitake), Agaricus bisporus (button), Flammulina velutipes (enoki), Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane). In some cases, applicable mushrooms may further include: Agaricus arvensis (Horse Mushroom), Agaricus augustus (The Prince), Agaricus campestris (Meadow Mushroom), Agrocybe pediades (Common Fieldcap), Albatrellus confluens (Fused Polypore), Albatrellus ovinus (Sheep Polypore), Amanita bisporigera (Eastern destroying angel), Amanita ceciliae (Snakeskin Grisette), Amanita cokeri (Solitary Lepidella), Amanita fulva (Tawny grisette), Amanita jacksonii (Jackson's slender amanita), Amanita muscaria (Fly Amanita), Amanita pantherina (Panther Amanita), Amanita phalloides (Death Cap Amanita), Amanita porphyria (Grey veiled amanita), Amanita regalis (Royal Fly Agaric), Amanita rubescens (Blushing Amanita), Amanita virosa (Destroying angel), Ampulloclitocybe clavipes (Club Foot), Armillaria mellea (Honey Mushroom), Auriscalpium vulgar e (Pinecone Tooth), Bankera fuligineoalba (Blushing Flagrant Tooth), Boletus edulis (King Bolete), Boletus pinophilus (Pinewood King Bolete), Bondarzewia berkeleyi (Berkeley's polypore), Bovista nigrescens (Brown puffball), Bovista plumbea (Paltry Puffball), Calocera viscosa (Yellow Stagshorn), Calocybe gambosa (St George's Mushroom), Calocybe persicolor (Pink Lawn Trich), Calvatia gigantea (Giant puffball), Cantharellula umbonata (Grayling), Cantharellus cibarius (Common Chantarelle), Chalciporus piperatus (Peppery Bolete), Chlorophyllum molybdites (False parasol), Chlorophyllum rhacodes (Shaggy Parasol), Clathrus ruber (Caged stinkhorn), Clitocybe gibba (Common Funnel Cap), Clitocybe nebularis (Clouded Funnel Cap), Clitocybe nuda (Wood Bl ewit), Clitopilus prunulus (Dread Dough Clitopilus), Collybia dry ophila (Russet Toughshank), Coltricia perennis (Tiger's Eye), Conocybe apala (Milky Conecap), Coprinellus disseminatus (Fairy Inkcap), Coprinopsis atramentaria (Common Ink Cap), Coprinopsis variegata (Scaly Ink Cap), Coprinus comatus (Shaggy-mane Inky Cap), Coprinus plicatilis (Umbrella Inky Cap), Cortinarius alboviolaceus (Silvery Violet Cort), Cortinarius armillatus (Red-banded Cort), Cortinarius camphoratus (Goatcheese webcap), Cortinarius caperatus (Gypsy Mushroom), Cortinarius coHinilus. Cortinarius croceus (Saffron Webcap), Cortinarius laniger (Woolly Webcap), Cortinarius mahcorius. Cortinarius mucosus (Orange Webcap), Cortinarius orellanus (Fool's Webcap), Cortinarius rubellus (Deadly Webcap), Cortinarius semisanguineus (Poison Dye Cort), Cortinarius traganus (Gassy webcap), Craterellus tubaeformis (Trumpet Chantarelle), Cystoderma amianthinum (Earthy Powdercap), Entoloma sericeum (Silky Pinkgill), Entoloma vernum (Pinkgill mushroom), Galerina marginata (Funeral Bell), Geastrum rufescens (Rosy earthstar), Gomphidius glutinosus (Slimy Spike), Gymnopilus picreus. Gymnopus peronatus (Wood Woolly foot), Gyromitra esculenta (False Morel), Gyromitra infula (Hooded false morel), Hebeloma crustuliniforme (Poison Pie), Hebeloma mesophaeum (Veiled Poisonpie), Hericium americanum (Bear's head), Hortiboletus rubellus (Ruby Bolete), Hydnum repandum (Common Hedgehog Tooth), Hydnum rufescens (Terracotta Hedgehog), Hygrophoropsis aurantiaca (False Chanterelle), Hygrophorus camarophyllus (Arched Wood Wax), Hygrophorus hypothejus (Late Fall Wax Cap), Hypholoma capnoides (Conifer Tuft), Hypholoma fasciculare (Sulphur Tuft), Hypholoma marginatum (Snakeskin Brownie), Imleria badia (Bay Bolete), Inocybe lacera (Torn-cap Inocybe), Kuehneromyces mutabilis (Sheathed Woodtuft), Laccaria laccata (Common Laccaria), Lactarius camphoratus (Curry Milkcap), Lactarius deliciosus (Saffron Milkcap), Lactarius deterrimus (Orange milkcap), Lactarius helvus (Poison Lactarius), Lactarius indigo (Indigo milk cap), Lactarius lignyotus (Velvet milkcap), Lactarius mammosus. Lactarius rufus (Red-hot Lactarius), Lactarius tabidus (Birch Milkcap), Lactarius torminosus (Woolly Milkcap), Lactarius trivialis (Slimy Lead Lactarius), Lactarius turpis (Ugly Milkcap), Lactarius volemus (Luscious Lactarius), Lactifluus piperatus (Peppery Milkcap), Laetiporus sulphureus (Chicken of the Woods), Leccinum aurantiacum (Orange Oak Bolete), Leccinum scabrum (Brown Birch Bolete), Leccinum versipelle (Orange Birch Bolete), Leucocoprinus birnbaumii (Flowerpot parasol), Lycoperdon excipuliforme (Pistle-shaped Puffball), Lycoperdon nigrescens (Dusky Puffball), Lycoperdon perlatum (Common Puffball), Lycoperdon pratense (Meadow Puffball), Lycoperdon pyriforme (Stump Puffball), Macrolepiota procera (Parasol Mushroom), Marasmius oreades (Fairy Ring Marasmius), Megacollybia platyphylla (Broad- gilled Collybia), Melanoleuca cognata (Spring Cavalier), Morchella elata (Black Morel), Morchella esculenta (Common Morel), Mycena galericulata (Common Tufted Mycena), Mycena laevigata, Mycena pura (Poison Radish Ground Mycena), Omphalotus illudens (Eastern jack- o'lantem), Omphalotus olearius (Jack o'Lantern), Otidea onotica (Lemon-Peel Cup), Paxillus involutus (Poison Pax), Phallus impudicus (Common stinkhorn), Phallus rubicundus, Pholiota alnicola (Alder Scalycap), Pholiota aurivella (Golden Scalycap), Pholiota limonella, Pholiota squarrosa (Dry Scaly Pholiota), Pleurotus citrinopileatus (Golden oyster mushroom), Polyporus ciliatus (Fringed Polypore), Polyporus squamosus (Dryad’s Saddle), Psathyrella candolleana (Common Park Psathyrella), Psilocybe semilanceata (Liberty Cap), Ramaria lutea (Coral fungi), Rhizina undulata (Pine firefungus), Rickenella sw arlzii, Rubroboletus satanas (Satan's Bolete), Russula acrifo a. Russula aeruginea (Green Brittlegill), Russula claroflava (Yellow Swamp Brittlegill), Russula decolorans (Copper Brittlegill), Russula emetica (The Sickener), Russula obscura (Darkening Brittlegill), Russula paludosa (Tall Bog Russula), Russula xerampelina (Crab Russula), Sarcodon squamosus (Scaly Tooth), Strobilomyces strobilaceus (Old man of the woods), Strobilurus esculentus (Spruce Cone Cap), Strobilurus stephanocystis (Pine Cone Cap), Stropharia hornemannii (Conifer Roundhead), Suillus americanus (American slippery Jack), Suillus bovinus (Cow mushroom), Suillus grevillei (Larch Bolete), Suillus luteus (Slippery Jack Bolete), Suillus variegatus (Variegated Bolete), Tapinella atrotomentosa (Velvet Rollrim), Tricholoma flavovirens (Edible Yellow Tri ch), Tricholoma focale (Booted Knight), Tricholoma saponaceum (Soapy Trich), Tricholoma sejunctum (False Edible Trich), Tricholoma stiparophyllum, Tricholomopsis decora (Prunes and Custard), Tricholomopsis rutilans (Plums and Custard), Turbinellus floccosus (Scaly Chanterelle), Tylopilus felleus (Bitter Bolete), Xerocomellus chrysenteron (Red cracking bolete), Xerocomus subtomentosus (Yellow-cracking Bolete), or other suitable varieties of mushroom.

Example System for Specimen Propagation

[0033] FIG. 1 illustrates a system 100 configured to control environmental parameters within an example of an automated growth environment. As illustrated, the system 100 comprises a computer 114 and a server 146. In some cases, the computer 114 or the server 146 processes one or more inputs. In some cases, the one or more inputs processed by a computer 114 or a server 146 include one or more environmental sensors. Some example environmental sensors include a water temperature sensor 128, an air temperature sensor 132, an air humidity sensor 134, a CO2 sensor 136, or any combination thereof. In some cases, transmission of the inputs from the environmental sensors to the computer 114 or the server 146 may lead (e.g., directly, or indirectly) to the computer 114 or the server 146 providing instructions to one or more environmental controllers to modify one or more environmental parameters. [0034] In some cases, the computer 114 or the server 146 processes one or more accessory inputs which may include an on/off switch 140 (e.g., for powering on or off one or more of the components of the system 100), a wireless reset control switch 138 (e.g., for resetting wireless (e.g., Bluetooth, web-enabled, cloud-based, etc.) connectivity of one or more components of the system 100), or a combination thereof, wherein the one or more accessory inputs may enable or inhibit the transmission of instructions between the one or more accessory inputs and the computer 114 or the server 146. In some cases, the server 146 may implement cloud computing. For example, the server 146 may analyze data to compute an output and provide the output to the computer 114. For example, the server 146 may receive environmental parameters in the growth chamber from the environmental sensors and may determine based at least in part on the environmental parameters (optionally with specimen parameter data) instruction to provide to the one or more environmental controllers. In other examples, the computer 114 may implement local computing in addition or in alternative to cloud computing such that the computer 114 receive environmental parameters in the growth chamber from the environmental sensors and may determine based at least in part on the environmental parameters (optionally with specimen parameter data) instruction to provide to the one or more environmental controllers. In such examples of the cloud computing or the local computing, determining the instruction based at least in part on the environmental parameters (optionally with the specimen parameter data) may implement artificial intelligence models or techniques, such as one or more machine learning models or techniques. The machine learning models may be trained on historical growing data for one or more specimens such that the machine learning models may then predict or recommend instruction (e.g., growing recommendations) to the environmental controllers. Regulation of Temperature within the Automated Growth Environment System

[0035] In some cases, the one or more environmental controllers include a temperature controller 122. In some cases, the temperature controller 122 employs the functionality of a heat sink 120 configured to remove heat from the system 100. In some cases, the temperature controller 122 further comprises a heater configured to add heat to the system. In some cases, the temperature controller 122 or one or more of its constituents thereof has the capacity to increase the temperature in the system 100 in increments of about 1 degree Celsius to about 5 degrees Celsius. In some cases, the temperature controller 122 or one or more of its constituents thereof has the capacity to decrease the temperature in the system 100 in increments of about 1 degree Celsius to about 5 degrees Celsius.

[0036] In some cases, the one or more environmental controllers are modified by data collected from the one or more environmental sensors. In some cases, the one or more environmental sensors includes a temperature sensor. For example, the system 100 shown in FIG. 1 comprises the water temperature sensor 128. In some cases, the water temperature sensor 128 further comprises a thermometer configured to measure temperature of an aqueous solution in Celsius, Fahrenheit, Kelvin, or any equivalent thereof. Measuring the aqueous solution in the system 100 may serve, in some respects, as a proxy for measuring the temperature of the specimen (e.g., mushroom) growing in the system 100. In some cases, the water temperature sensor 128 is submerged in the aqueous solution. In some cases, the system 100 comprises a container 124 suitable for positioning a vessel configured for housing a specimen for propagation at an interior portion of the container 124. In some cases, the vessel comprises a growth medium 126. In some cases, the growth medium 126 is suitable for supporting specimen growth. In some cases, the growth medium 126 comprises at least a portion of organic material (e.g. straw, mulch, compost, hardwood, sawdust, organic pellets, coco coir, vermiculite, biowaste, coffee grounds, oat bran, wheat, grain, soy hulls, cardboard, log rounds, wood chips, totems, paper material, etc.). In some cases, the growth medium 126 comprises agar. In some cases, the growth medium 126 further comprises nutrients suitable for nourishing a specimen for propagation (e.g., magnesium, nitrogen, potassium, calcium, sulfur, phosphorus, sugar, starch, lignin, fats, protein, etc). In some cases, the growth medium 126 further comprises an encasement layer suitable for promoting specimen development or growth. In some cases, the encasement layer is capable of holding moisture. In some cases, the growth medium 126 undergoes one or more processes for removing constituents capable of hindering specimen development or growth. In some cases, the one or more processes includes a sterilization process, a pasteurization process, a fermentation process, or any combination thereof. In some cases, the growth medium 126 further comprises an inoculant suitable for specimen development or growth. In some cases, the inoculant comprises mushroom spawn. In some cases, the inoculant comprises mycelium. In some cases, the inoculant comprises a liquid culture. In some cases, the inoculant comprises fungal material. In some cases, the inoculant comprises fungal spores. In some cases, the container 124 comprises an aqueous solution such that at least a portion of the vessel housing the specimen for propagation is submerged in the aqueous solution. In some cases, the container 124 is in direct thermal contact with one or more components of the temperature controller 122. In some cases, the thermometer is in direct thermal contact with the aqueous solution. In some cases, temperature data in the form of degrees Celsius, Fahrenheit, Kelvin, or any equivalent thereof measured by the thermometer submerged in the aqueous solution is transmitted to the water temperature sensor 128. In some cases, the aqueous solution has a temperature equivalent or within about 5 degrees Fahrenheit, about 10 degrees Fahrenheit, about 20 degrees Fahrenheit, about 30 degrees Fahrenheit, about 40 degrees Fahrenheit, etc. of the temperature of the at least a portion of the vessel housing the specimen for propagation is submerged in the aqueous solution. In some cases, the vessel housing the specimen for propagation has a temperature equivalent to or within about 5 degrees Fahrenheit, about 10 degrees Fahrenheit, about 20 degrees Fahrenheit, about 30 degrees Fahrenheit, about 40 degrees Fahrenheit, etc. of the temperature of at least a portion of the growth medium 126. In some cases, the temperature in degrees Celsius, Fahrenheit, Kelvin, or any equivalent thereof of one or more of the aqueous solution, the vessel containing the specimen for propagation, or the growth medium 126 is measured by the thermometer and collected as temperature data by the water temperature sensor 128. In some cases, the temperature data collected by the water temperature sensor 128 is transmitted to the computer 114 or the server 146. In some cases, the temperature data transmitted to the computer 114 or the server 146 induces generation of an instruction to the temperature controller 122 to increase, decrease, or maintain the water temperature in the system 100. In some cases, the instruction to the temperature controller is configured for maintenance of optimal environmental parameters supporting specimen appearance or growth. In some cases, the temperature data is configured for obtaining information related to or interpretation of one or more specimen characteristics (e.g., specimen health, specimen stage of development, specimen classification, a combination thereof, etc).

[0037] In another example, the system 100 further comprises an air temperature sensor 132. In some cases, the air temperature sensor 132 comprises a thermometer configured for measuring ambient temperature of air within the system 100 in degrees Celsius, Fahrenheit, Kelvin or any equivalent thereof. In some cases, the thermometer is in direct thermal contact with the air inside the system 100. In some cases, temperature data collected by one of the air temperature sensor 132 or the thermometer is transmitted to the computer 114 or the server 146. In some cases, the temperature data transmitted to the computer 114 or the server 146 induces generation of an instruction to the temperature controller 122 to increase, decrease, or maintain the temperature of the air in the system 100.

[0038] While the water temperature sensor 128 and the air temperature sensor 132 are described, in practice, any number of suitable temperature sensors may be used to determine, directly or indirectly, the temperature of the specimen or of one or more components of the system 100. For example, in some cases, an infrared (IR) camera system may be used to determine the temperature of the specimen or of one or more components of the system 100. Other suitable temperature sensors may include, in some cases, one or more of such as thermocouples, change- of-state sensors, resistive temperature measuring devices, IR sensors, bimetallic sensors, thermometers, silicon diodes, thermistors (e.g., negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistors) semi-conductor-based sensors, etc. [0039] In some cases, the system 100 is configured to maintain (e.g., via the one or more temperature controllers 122) temperature of about -5 degrees Celsius to about 50 degrees Celsius (e.g., of the specimen or of one or more components of the system 100). In some cases, the system 100 is configured to maintain a temperature of about -5 degrees Celsius to about 50 degrees Celsius. In some cases, the system 100 is configured to maintain a temperature of about - 5 degrees Celsius to about 0 degrees Celsius, about -5 degrees Celsius to about 5 degrees Celsius, about -5 degrees Celsius to about 10 degrees Celsius, about -5 degrees Celsius to about 15 degrees Celsius, about -5 degrees Celsius to about 20 degrees Celsius, about -5 degrees Celsius to about 25 degrees Celsius, about -5 degrees Celsius to about 30 degrees Celsius, about -5 degrees Celsius to about 35 degrees Celsius, about -5 degrees Celsius to about 40 degrees Celsius, about -5 degrees Celsius to about 45 degrees Celsius, about -5 degrees Celsius to about 50 degrees Celsius, about 0 degrees Celsius to about 5 degrees Celsius, about 0 degrees Celsius to about 10 degrees Celsius, about 0 degrees Celsius to about 15 degrees Celsius, about 0 degrees Celsius to about 20 degrees Celsius, about 0 degrees Celsius to about 25 degrees Celsius, about 0 degrees Celsius to about 30 degrees Celsius, about 0 degrees Celsius to about 35 degrees Celsius, about 0 degrees Celsius to about 40 degrees Celsius, about 0 degrees Celsius to about 45 degrees Celsius, about 0 degrees Celsius to about 50 degrees Celsius, about 5 degrees Celsius to about 10 degrees Celsius, about 5 degrees Celsius to about 15 degrees Celsius, about 5 degrees Celsius to about 20 degrees Celsius, about 5 degrees Celsius to about 25 degrees Celsius, about 5 degrees Celsius to about 30 degrees Celsius, about 5 degrees Celsius to about 35 degrees Celsius, about 5 degrees Celsius to about 40 degrees Celsius, about 5 degrees Celsius to about 45 degrees Celsius, about 5 degrees Celsius to about 50 degrees Celsius, about 10 degrees Celsius to about 15 degrees Celsius, about 10 degrees Celsius to about 20 degrees Celsius, about 10 degrees Celsius to about 25 degrees Celsius, about 10 degrees Celsius to about 30 degrees Celsius, about 10 degrees Celsius to about 35 degrees Celsius, about 10 degrees Celsius to about 40 degrees Celsius, about 10 degrees Celsius to about 45 degrees Celsius, about 10 degrees Celsius to about 50 degrees Celsius, about 15 degrees Celsius to about 20 degrees Celsius, about 15 degrees Celsius to about 25 degrees Celsius, about 15 degrees Celsius to about 30 degrees Celsius, about 15 degrees Celsius to about 35 degrees Celsius, about 15 degrees Celsius to about 40 degrees Celsius, about 15 degrees Celsius to about 45 degrees Celsius, about 15 degrees Celsius to about 50 degrees Celsius, about 20 degrees Celsius to about 25 degrees Celsius, about 20 degrees Celsius to about 30 degrees Celsius, about 20 degrees Celsius to about 35 degrees Celsius, about 20 degrees Celsius to about 40 degrees Celsius, about 20 degrees Celsius to about 45 degrees Celsius, about 20 degrees Celsius to about 50 degrees Celsius, about 25 degrees Celsius to about 30 degrees Celsius, about 25 degrees Celsius to about 35 degrees Celsius, about 25 degrees Celsius to about 40 degrees Celsius, about 25 degrees Celsius to about 45 degrees Celsius, about 25 degrees Celsius to about 50 degrees Celsius, about 30 degrees Celsius to about 35 degrees Celsius, about 30 degrees Celsius to about 40 degrees Celsius, about 30 degrees Celsius to about 45 degrees Celsius, about 30 degrees Celsius to about 50 degrees Celsius, about 35 degrees Celsius to about 40 degrees Celsius, about 35 degrees Celsius to about 45 degrees Celsius, about 35 degrees Celsius to about 50 degrees Celsius, about 40 degrees Celsius to about 45 degrees Celsius, about 40 degrees Celsius to about 50 degrees Celsius, or about 45 degrees Celsius to about 50 degrees Celsius. In some cases, the system 100 is configured to maintain a temperature of about -5 degrees Celsius, about 0 degrees Celsius, about 5 degrees Celsius, about 10 degrees Celsius, about 15 degrees Celsius, about 20 degrees Celsius, about 25 degrees Celsius, about 30 degrees Celsius, about 35 degrees Celsius, about 40 degrees Celsius, about 45 degrees Celsius, or about 50 degrees Celsius. In some cases, the system 100 is configured to maintain a temperature of at least about -5 degrees Celsius, about 0 degrees Celsius, about 5 degrees Celsius, about 10 degrees Celsius, about 15 degrees Celsius, about 20 degrees Celsius, about 25 degrees Celsius, about 30 degrees Celsius, about 35 degrees Celsius, about 40 degrees Celsius, or about 45 degrees Celsius. In some cases, the system 100 is configured to maintain a temperature of at most about 0 degrees Celsius, about 5 degrees Celsius, about 10 degrees Celsius, about 15 degrees Celsius, about 20 degrees Celsius, about 25 degrees Celsius, about 30 degrees Celsius, about 35 degrees Celsius, about 40 degrees Celsius, about 45 degrees Celsius, or about 50 degrees Celsius. Regulation of Atmospheric Conditions within the Automated Growth Environment System [0040] In some cases, the one or more environmental controllers includes an atmospheric controller. In some cases, the atmospheric controller comprises an airflow system configured for modifying airflow in the system 100. In some cases, the airflow system comprises one or more blowers. In some cases, the one or more blowers comprises a fan. In some cases, the one or more blowers comprise one or more of a positive displacement blower (e.g., a rotary lobe blower, a helical screw blower), a centrifugal blower, a multistage centrifugal blower, a high-speed blower, a regenerative blower, a radial fan, a forward-curved fan, a backward-inclined fan, an axial fan, a cross flow fan, a turbine, etc.

[0041] In some cases, the one or more blowers comprises an exhaust fan 118 configured for expulsion of air from the system 100 to an external environment. In some cases, the exhaust fan 118 is in communication with a sealable air vent 116. In some cases, the airflow system further comprises an exhaust air filter 144 (which may be the same as or similar to the air filter 112) acting in conjunction with the exhaust fan 118, and configured to reduce airborne constituents (e.g., impurities, contaminants, etc.) within the system 100 from entering the external environment. In some cases, the one or more blowers employs an air intake fan 110 configured to facilitate the passage of air from the external environment into the system 100. In some cases, the exhaust air filter 144 is configured for interfacing with a forced air system.

[0042] In some cases, the airflow control system further comprises an intake air filter 112 acting in conjunction with the air intake fan 110 and configured to reduce or prevent airborne impurities in or from the external environment from entering the system 100. The intake air filter 112 may comprise one or more of high efficiency particulate air (HEP A) filters, UV light filters, electrostatic filters, washable filters, media filters, spun glass filters, pleated filters, activated carbon filters, ionic filters, air-to-air exchangers, etc. In some cases, the intake air filter 112 is configured for interfacing with a forced air system.

[0043] In some cases, the one or more environmental sensors comprise an atmospheric sensor. In some cases, the atmospheric sensor is configured to measure the concentration of gaseous content or air constituents (e.g., particles, pollutants, impurities, etc.) present in the system 100. In some cases, the atmospheric sensor is configured to transmit data corresponding to the concentration of the one or more air constituents present in the system 100 to the computer 114 or the server 146. In some cases, the transmission of data obtained from the atmospheric sensor to the computer 114 or the server 146 induces generation of an instruction to be performed by the atmospheric controller. In some cases, the concentration of one or more air constituents is determined by the atmospheric sensor to be above or below a threshold for growth or appearance of a specimen. In some cases, when the concentration of the one or more air constituents is above or below a threshold for growth of the specimen, the computer 114 or the server 146 receives instructions to activate or inactivate one or more components (e.g., the air filter 112, the exhaust fan 118, the exhaust air filter 144, the air intake fan 110, etc.) of the atmospheric controller. In some cases, the instructions received by the computer 114 or the server 146 prompts the activation or inactivation of the one or more blowers (e.g., fans). In some cases, the blowers comprise the air intake fan 110. In some cases, the one or more blowers comprise the air exhaust fan 118.

[0044] In another example, the atmospheric sensor is a carbon dioxide (CO2) sensor configured for measuring the concentration of CO2 in the system 100. In some cases, the CO2 sensor is an infrared (IR) sensor. In some cases, the CO2 sensor is a non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) sensor. In some cases, the CO2 sensor is configured for generating data for CO2 concentration from about 400 ppm to about 5000 ppm. In some cases, the CO2 concentration present in the system 100 is above a threshold for growth or appearance of a specimen. In some cases, CO2 concentration data is subsequently transmitted to the computer 114 or the server 146. In some cases, the computer 114 or the server 146 receives an instruction to activate one or more components of the atmospheric controller. In some cases, the computer 114 or the server 146 receives an instruction to activate the exhaust fan 118 in order to decrease the concentration of CO2 present in the system 100. In some cases, the CO2 concentration present in the system 100 is below a threshold for growth or appearance of a specimen. In some cases, CO2 concentration data is subsequently transmitted to the computer 114 or the server 146. In some cases, the computer 114 or the server 146 receives an instruction to activate one or more components of the atmospheric controller. In some cases, the computer 114 or the server 146 receives an instruction to activate the intake blower 110 in order to increase the concentration of CO2 present in the system 100.

Regulation of Humidity within the Automated Growth Environment System

[0045] In some cases, the one or more environmental controllers includes a humidity controller. In some cases, the humidity controller includes a humidifier 104. In some cases, the one or more environmental sensors includes an air humidity sensor 134. In some cases, the air humidity sensor 134 employs the functionality of a hygrometer (e.g., a capacitive hygrometer, a resistive hygrometer, a thermal hygrometer, etc.) configured for measuring the amount of relative humidity within the system 100. In some cases, the air humidity sensor 134 employs the functionality of a hygrometer configured for measuring the amount of absolute humidity within the system 100. In some cases, the air humidity sensor 134 is configured to transmit humidity data to the computer 114 or the server 146.

[0046] In some cases, the transmission of humidity data to the computer 114 or the server 146 induces an instruction to modify the humidity controller. In some cases, modulation of the humidity controller increases the amount of humidity in the system 100, decreases the amount of humidity in the system 100, or maintains the amount of humidity in the system 100. In some cases, the air humidity sensor 134 is configured for collecting humidity data multiple times per second, multiple times per minute, multiple times per hour, etc. In some cases, the humidity controller is configured for performing an instruction received by the computer 114 or the server 146 at a rate of multiple times per second, multiple times per minute, multiple times per hour, etc. For example, the humidity controller may modify the humidity of the air in the system 100 about every second, about every 2 seconds, about every 3 seconds, about every 4 seconds, about every 5 seconds, about every 10 seconds, about every 20 seconds, about every 30 seconds, about every 45 seconds, about every minute, about every 2 minutes, about every 3 minutes, about every 5 minutes, etc.

[0047] In some cases, the humidity controller is configured to maintain a humidity in the system 100 of about 50% to about 100%. In some cases, the humidity controller is configured to maintain a humidity in the system 100 of about 50% to about 55%, about 50% to about 60%, about 50% to about 65%, about 50% to about 70%, about 50% to about 75%, about 50% to about 80%, about 50% to about 85%, about 50% to about 90%, about 50% to about 95%, about 50% to about 100%, about 55% to about 60%, about 55% to about 65%, about 55% to about 70%, about 55% to about 75%, about 55% to about 80%, about 55% to about 85%, about 55% to about 90%, about 55% to about 95%, about 55% to about 100%, about 60% to about 65%, about 60% to about 70%, about 60% to about 75%, about 60% to about 80%, about 60% to about 85%, about 60% to about 90%, about 60% to about 95%, about 60% to about 100%, about 65% to about 70%, about 65% to about 75%, about 65% to about 80%, about 65% to about 85%, about 65% to about 90%, about 65% to about 95%, about 65% to about 100%, about 70% to about 75%, about 70% to about 80%, about 70% to about 85%, about 70% to about 90%, about 70% to about 95%, about 70% to about 100%, about 75% to about 80%, about 75% to about 85%, about 75% to about 90%, about 75% to about 95%, about 75% to about 100%, about 80% to about 85%, about 80% to about 90%, about 80% to about 95%, about 80% to about 100%, about 85% to about 90%, about 85% to about 95%, about 85% to about 100%, about 90% to about 95%, about 90% to about 100%, or about 95% to about 100%. In some cases, the humidity controller is configured to maintain a humidity in the system 100 of about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 100%. In some cases, the humidity controller is configured to maintain a humidity in the system 100 of at least about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or about 95%. In some cases, the humidity controller is configured to maintain a humidity in the system 100 of at most about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or about 100%.

Regulation of Lighting within the Automated Growth Environment System

[0048] In some cases, the one or more environmental controllers comprise a lighting system. In some cases, the lighting system comprises a light source 108. The light source 108 may direct light towards or away from an interior portion of the system 100. In another example, the system 100 further comprises a light sensor configured to collect data corresponding to one or more of duration of light exposure, intensity of light exposure, variation of light exposure, wavelength of light exposure, or any combination thereof. In some cases, the light sensor 108 is configured to transmit data to the computer 114 or the server 146. In some cases, the computer 114 or the server 146 is suitable for receiving instructions from the light sensor to operate the light source 108 described in FIG. 1.

[0049] In some cases, the light source 108 includes one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) (e.g. red LED, green LED, blue LED, etc). In some cases, the light source 108 emits ultraviolet (UV) light. In some cases, the light source 108 comprises any form of light configured for specimen growth. In some embodiments, the UV light emits UV-A light. In some cases, the UV- light emits UV-B light. In some cases, the UV-light emits UV-C light. In some cases, the light source 108 emits visible light (e.g., red, green, blue, etc.). In some cases, the light source 108 emits infrared light.

[0050] In some cases, the light source 108 emits light at a wavelength of about 50 nanometers (nm) to about 500 nm. In some cases, the light source 108 emits light at a wavelength of about 50 nm to about 100 nm, about 50 nm to about 150 nm, about 50 nm to about 200 nm, about 50 nm to about 250 nm, about 50 nm to about 300 nm, about 50 nm to about 350 nm, about 50 nm to about 400 nm, about 50 nm to about 450 nm, about 50 nm to about 500 nm, about 100 nm to about 150 nm, about 100 nm to about 200 nm, about 100 nm to about 250 nm, about 100 nm to about 300 nm, about 100 nm to about 350 nm, about 100 nm to about 400 nm, about 100 nm to about 450 nm, about 100 nm to about 500 nm, about 150 nm to about 200 nm, about 150 nm to about 250 nm, about 150 nm to about 300 nm, about 150 nm to about 350 nm, about 150 nm to about 400 nm, about 150 nm to about 450 nm, about 150 nm to about 500 nm, about 200 nm to about 250 nm, about 200 nm to about 300 nm, about 200 nm to about 350 nm, about 200 nm to about 400 nm, about 200 nm to about 450 nm, about 200 nm to about 500 nm, about 250 nm to about 300 nm, about 250 nm to about 350 nm, about 250 nm to about 400 nm, about 250 nm to about 450 nm, about 250 nm to about 500 nm, about 300 nm to about 350 nm, about 300 nm to about 400 nm, about 300 nm to about 450 nm, about 300 nm to about 500 nm, about 350 nm to about 400 nm, about 350 nm to about 450 nm, about 350 nm to about 500 nm, about 400 nm to about 450 nm, about 400 nm to about 500 nm, or about 450 nm to about 500 nm. In some cases, the light source 108 emits light at a wavelength of about 50 nm, about 100 nm, about 150 nm, about 200 nm, about 250 nm, about 300 nm, about 350 nm, about 400 nm, about 450 nm, or about 500 nm. In some cases, the light source 108 emits light at a wavelength of at least about 50 nm, about 100 nm, about 150 nm, about 200 nm, about 250 nm, about 300 nm, about 350 nm, about 400 nm, or about 450 nm. In some cases, the light source 108 emits light at a wavelength of at most about 100 nm, about 150 nm, about 200 nm, about 250 nm, about 300 nm, about 350 nm, about 400 nm, about 450 nm, or about 500 nm.

[0051] In some cases, the light source 108 emits light at a wavelength of about 350 nm to about 800 nm. In some cases, the light source 108 emits light at a wavelength of about 350 nm to about 400 nm, about 350 nm to about 450 nm, about 350 nm to about 500 nm, about 350 nm to about

550 nm, about 350 nm to about 600 nm, about 350 nm to about 650 nm, about 350 nm to about

700 nm, about 350 nm to about 750 nm, about 350 nm to about 800 nm, about 400 nm to about

450 nm, about 400 nm to about 500 nm, about 400 nm to about 550 nm, about 400 nm to about

600 nm, about 400 nm to about 650 nm, about 400 nm to about 700 nm, about 400 nm to about

750 nm, about 400 nm to about 800 nm, about 450 nm to about 500 nm, about 450 nm to about

550 nm, about 450 nm to about 600 nm, about 450 nm to about 650 nm, about 450 nm to about 700 nm, about 450 nm to about 750 nm, about 450 nm to about 800 nm, about 500 nm to about

550 nm, about 500 nm to about 600 nm, about 500 nm to about 650 nm, about 500 nm to about

700 nm, about 500 nm to about 750 nm, about 500 nm to about 800 nm, about 550 nm to about

600 nm, about 550 nm to about 650 nm, about 550 nm to about 700 nm, about 550 nm to about

750 nm, about 550 nm to about 800 nm, about 600 nm to about 650 nm, about 600 nm to about

700 nm, about 600 nm to about 750 nm, about 600 nm to about 800 nm, about 650 nm to about

700 nm, about 650 nm to about 750 nm, about 650 nm to about 800 nm, about 700 nm to about

750 nm, about 700 nm to about 800 nm, or about 750 nm to about 800 nm. In some cases, the light source 108 emits light at a wavelength of about 350 nm, about 400 nm, about 450 nm, about 500 nm, about 550 nm, about 600 nm, about 650 nm, about 700 nm, about 750 nm, or about 800 nm. In some cases, the light source 108 emits light at a wavelength of at least about 350 nm, about 400 nm, about 450 nm, about 500 nm, about 550 nm, about 600 nm, about 650 nm, about 700 nm, or about 750 nm. In some cases, the light source 108 emits light at a wavelength of at most about 400 nm, about 450 nm, about 500 nm, about 550 nm, about 600 nm, about 650 nm, about 700 nm, about 750 nm, or about 800 nm.

[0052] In some cases, the light source 108 emits light at a wavelength of about 750 nm to about 1,200 nm. In some cases, the light source 108 emits light at a wavelength of about 750 nm to about 800 nm, about 750 nm to about 850 nm, about 750 nm to about 900 nm, about 750 nm to about 950 nm, about 750 nm to about 1,000 nm, about 750 nm to about 1,050 nm, about 750 nm to about 1,100 nm, about 750 nm to about 1,150 nm, about 750 nm to about 1,200 nm, about 800 nm to about 850 nm, about 800 nm to about 900 nm, about 800 nm to about 950 nm, about 800 nm to about 1,000 nm, about 800 nm to about 1,050 nm, about 800 nm to about 1,100 nm, about 800 nm to about 1,150 nm, about 800 nm to about 1,200 nm, about 850 nm to about 900 nm, about 850 nm to about 950 nm, about 850 nm to about 1,000 nm, about 850 nm to about 1,050 nm, about 850 nm to about 1,100 nm, about 850 nm to about 1,150 nm, about 850 nm to about 1,200 nm, about 900 nm to about 950 nm, about 900 nm to about 1,000 nm, about 900 nm to about 1,050 nm, about 900 nm to about 1,100 nm, about 900 nm to about 1,150 nm, about 900 nm to about 1,200 nm, about 950 nm to about 1,000 nm, about 950 nm to about 1,050 nm, about 950 nm to about 1,100 nm, about 950 nm to about 1,150 nm, about 950 nm to about 1,200 nm, about 1,000 nm to about 1,050 nm, about 1,000 nm to about 1,100 nm, about 1,000 nm to about 1,150 nm, about 1,000 nm to about 1,200 nm, about 1,050 nm to about 1,100 nm, about 1,050 nm to about 1,150 nm, about 1,050 nm to about 1,200 nm, about 1,100 nm to about 1,150 nm, about 1,100 nm to about 1,200 nm, or about 1,150 nm to about 1,200 nm. In some cases, the light source 108 emits light at a wavelength of about 750 nm, about 800 nm, about 850 nm, about 900 nm, about 950 nm, about 1,000 nm, about 1,050 nm, about 1,100 nm, about 1,150 nm, or about 1,200 nm. In some cases, the light source 108 emits light at a wavelength of at least about 750 nm, about 800 nm, about 850 nm, about 900 nm, about 950 nm, about 1,000 nm, about 1,050 nm, about 1,100 nm, or about 1,150 nm. In some cases, the light source 108 emits light at a wavelength of at most about 800 nm, about 850 nm, about 900 nm, about 950 nm, about 1,000 nm, about 1,050 nm, about 1,100 nm, about 1,150 nm, or about 1,200 nm.

Example System for Specimen Propagation

[0053] FIG. 2 illustrates another system 10 configured to control environmental parameters within an example of an automated growth environment. The system 10 of FIG. 2 may be the same as or similar to, in one or more respects, to the system 100 of FIG. 1. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the system 10 may be suitable for propagating one or more specimens. In some cases, the system 10 suitable for propagating one or more specimens comprises a growth chamber 12. In some cases, a region of the growth chamber 12 comprises a tag suitable for management of data. In some cases, the data is suitable for download (e.g., as a file). In some cases, the data is suitable for communication with a system (e.g. a web interface, a cloud-based system, a computer, a server, etc). In some cases, the data is configurable by a device user. In some cases, the data is suitable for wired or wireless transmission. In some cases, the data is suitable for transmission via quick response (QR) technology. In some cases, the data is suitable for transmission via radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. In some cases, the data is suitable for transmission via infrared (IR) technology. In some cases, the indicator 30 further comprises a signal transmission component. In some cases, the indicator 30 further comprises a storage component (e.g., a computer memory). In some cases, the indicator 30 comprises an RFID tag. In some cases, the indicator 30 comprises a QR code. In some cases, the system 10 comprises a growth chamber 12 that is configured to receive a growth vessel 26.

[0054] In some cases, the growth vessel 26 further comprises a medium suitable for supporting specimen growth. In some cases, the medium comprises at least a portion of organic material (e.g. straw, mulch, compost, hardwood, sawdust, organic pellets, coco coir, vermiculite, biowaste, coffee grounds, oat bran, wheat, grain, soy hulls, cardboard, log rounds, wood chips, totems, paper material, etc.). In some cases, the medium comprises agar. In some cases, the medium further comprises nutrients suitable for nourishing a specimen for propagation (e.g., magnesium, nitrogen, potassium, calcium, sulfur, phosphorus, sugar, starch, lignin, fats, protein, etc). In some cases, the medium further comprises an encasement layer suitable for promoting specimen growth. In some cases, the encasement layer is capable of holding moisture. In some cases, the medium undergoes one or more processes for removing constituents capable of hindering specimen growth. In some cases, the one or more processes includes a sterilization process, a pasteurization process, a fermentation process, or any combination thereof. In some cases, the medium further comprises an inoculant suitable for specimen development or growth. In some cases, the inoculant comprises mushroom spawn. In some cases, the inoculant comprises mycelium. In some cases, the inoculant comprises a liquid culture. In some cases, the inoculant comprises fungal material. In some cases, the inoculant comprises fungal spores.

[0055] In some cases, the growth vessel 26 further comprises an indicator 30 configured for management of data. In some cases, the data comprises taxonomic classification, one or more physical characteristic(s), one or more optimal growth parameter(s), one or more image(s), flavor profile, cultivation skill level, edibility, one or more chemical properties, growth process, cultivation process, development process, harvesting process, number of growth cycles, physiological effects, mycorrhizal profile, or any combination thereof. In some cases, the data is suitable for download (e.g., as a file). In some cases, the data is suitable for communication with a system (e.g. a web interface, a cloud-based system, a computer, a server, etc). In some cases, the data is configurable by a device user. In some cases, the data is suitable for wired or wireless transmission. In some cases, the data is suitable for transmission via quick response (QR) technology. In some cases, the data is suitable for transmission via radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. In some cases, the data is suitable for transmission via infrared (IR) technology. In some cases, the indicator 30 further comprises a signal transmission component. In some cases, the indicator 30 further comprises a storage component (e.g., a computer memory). In some cases, the indicator 30 comprises an RFID tag. In some cases, the indicator 30 comprises a QR code. In some cases, the growth chamber 12 further comprises a reader 14 configured for receiving or transmitting data. In some cases, the reader 14 has a fixed position. In some cases, the reader 14 is suitable for repositioning. In some cases, the reader 14 is suitable for withstanding a plurality of environmental conditions. In some cases, the reader 14 is suitable for receiving data from the indicator 30. In some cases, the reader 14 is capable of receiving data from the RFID tag. In some cases, the reader 14 is capable of interfacing with a processing unit 16

[0056] In some cases, the processing unit 16 is configured to receive, interpret, or process one or more inputs. In some cases, the one or more inputs includes data transmitted from the reader 14. In some cases, the one or more inputs comprises output from the reader 14. In some cases, the one or more inputs comprises one or more integrated components associated with the growth chamber 12. In some cases, the processing unit 16 is configured to receive instructions based at least in part on data received from the one or more inputs.

[0057] In some cases, the growth chamber 12 further comprises one or more environmental controllers configured for modifying one or more environmental parameters suitable for optimal growth conditions of a specimen to be propagated. In some cases, the one or more environmental controllers are suitable for maintaining atmospheric conditions conducive to specimen growth, for example, a blower 18. In some cases, the blower 18 is suitable for management of moisture, ventilation, air replacement, air circulation, ambient temperature, aeration, fluid constituents, gaseous constituents, or any combination thereof. In some cases, the blower 18 is capable of expulsion of gaseous constituents from the interior of the growth chamber 12 to an external environment. In some cases, the blower 18 is capable of facilitating entry of gaseous constituents from the external environment to within the growth chamber 12.

[0058] In some cases, the one or more environmental controllers comprise a lighting controller configured for management of light directed towards or away from the automated growth environment system 10, the growth chamber 12, the growth vessel 26, or any combination thereof. In some cases, the lighting controller is configured to increase the amount of light directed towards or away from the automated growth environment system 10, the growth chamber 12, the growth vessel 26, or any combination thereof. In some cases, the lighting controller is configured to decrease the amount of light directed towards the automated growth environment system 10, the growth chamber 12, the growth vessel 26, or any combination thereof.

[0059] In some cases, the light controller comprises a light source 22. In some cases, the light source 22 is configured for supplying energy to the specimen for propagation (e.g., phototropic specimens, photosynthetic specimens, etc.). In some cases, the light source 22 is configured for regulating specimen development (e.g., light as a factor for emergence of a fungal fruiting body). In some cases, the light source 22 is configured for metabolism regulation of the specimen for propagation. In some cases, the light source 22 is configured for facilitating the synthesis of specimen nutrients. In some cases, the light source 22 is an artificial light source. In some cases, the light source 22 emits light that may be the same as or similar to sunlight. In some cases, the light source 22 is configured for temperature management in the system 10. In some cases, the lighting controller is configured for managing the duration of light exposure to the automated growth environment system 10. In some cases, the lighting controller is configured for managing the intensity of light exposure to the automated growth environment system 10. In some cases, the lighting controller is configured for managing the type of light exposure to the automated growth environment system 10. In some cases, the lighting controller is configured for managing the light exposure to the automated growth environment system 10 for aesthetic purposes. In some cases, the lighting controller is configured for employing one or more imaging modalities. In some cases, the one or more imaging modalities are capable of capturing one or more images of at least a portion of the automated growth environment system 10 or one or more of its constituents therein. In some cases, the growth chamber 12 employs the functionality of one or more sensors configured for monitoring, measuring, or collecting data associated with one or more constituents of the automated growth environment system 10. In some cases, the one or more sensors comprises a lighting sensor configured for obtaining data from the lighting controller. In some cases, the data transmitted by the lighting sensor comprises images of the specimen for propagation or its surrounding environment. In some cases, the lighting sensor is further configured for extraction of data from image output from the lighting controller. In some cases, the image output data comprises information related to a development stage of the specimen for propagation. In some cases, the lighting sensor is configured for transmission of data to the processing unit 16. In some cases, the processing unit 16 is configured to receive an instruction based at least in part on data transmitted by the lighting sensor. In some cases, the lighting controller is configured for receiving an instruction from the processing unit 16. In some cases, the instruction from the processing unit 16 induces a modification to the lighting controller.

[0060] In some cases, the one or more environmental controllers is a humidity controller configured for modifying air moisture in the automated growth environment system 10 or its constituents thereof. In some cases, the humidity controller comprises a humidifier 20. The humidifier 20 of FIG. 2 may be the same as or similar to, in one or more respects, to the humidifier 104 of FIG. 1. In some cases, the humidifier 20 is an evaporative humidifier. In some cases, the humidifier 20 is a mechanical humidifier. In some cases, the humidifier is an impeller. In some cases, the humidifier 20 is an ultrasonic humidifier. In some cases, the humidifier comprises a wick system. In some cases, the humidifier 20 further comprises a reservoir 24 configured retain a volume of fluid for moisture output.

[0061] In some cases, the growth chamber 12 employs the functionality of one or more environmental sensors configured for monitoring, measuring, or collecting data associated with one or more environmental parameters affecting propagation of a specimen in the growth chamber 12. In some cases, the one or more environmental sensors monitors, measures, or collects data from the one or more environmental controllers. In some cases, the one or more environmental sensors comprise a humidity sensor 32. The humidity sensor 32 of FIG. 2 may be the same as or similar to, in one or more respects, to the air humidity sensor 134 of FIG. 1. In some cases, the humidity sensor 32 monitors, measures, or collects data from the humidifier 20. In some cases, the humidity sensor 32 is configured to transmit data obtained from the humidifier 20 to the processing unit 16. In some cases, the processing unit 16 is configured to receive an instruction based at least in part on data transmitted by the humidity sensor 32. In some cases, the processing unit receives an instruction to activate the humidifier 20. In some cases, an instruction to the processing unit 16 to activate the humidifier 20 is prompted by humidity data measured by the humidity sensor 32. In some cases, the humidity data comprises a humidity measurement below a threshold suitable for optimal growth or appearance of a specimen for propagation. In some cases, the processing unit 16 receives an instruction to increase or decrease the humidity in the growth chamber 12. In some cases, the instruction to increase or decrease the humidity in the growth chamber 12 induces transmission of an instruction to activate or inactivate the humidifier 20.

Example Growth Chamber Schematics

[0062] FIG. 3A illustrates a front view of an example of a growth chamber 300. As illustrated, the growth chamber 300 comprises one or more integrated environmental controllers and one or more environmental sensors suitable for modifying one or more environmental parameters with respect to a specimen for propagation. In some cases, the one or more environmental controllers comprises a temperature controller 122, optionally positioned on the interior of the growth chamber 300. In some cases, the temperature controller 122 comprises a heat sink 120. The growth chamber 300 may further comprise a container 124 positioned to be in direct thermal contact with one or more of the temperature controller 122 or the heat sink 120.

[0063] The growth chamber 300 may be partially or wholly encapsulated by one or more walled regions 142. In some cases, a walled region 142 is configured to enable visibility of an interior region of the growth chamber 300. In some cases, a walled region 142 is at least partially opaque. In some cases, a walled region 142 is at least partially transparent. In some cases, a walled region 142 is suitable for dynamic adjustment of brightness or darkness. In some cases, a walled region 142 is configured for interchanging between an open state or a closed state, via, e.g., a door. In some cases, a walled region 142 is configured for interchanging between a locked state or an unlocked state via, e.g., a door locking or closing mechanism. In some cases, a walled region 142 is configured to isolate at least a portion of the growth chamber 300 from the external environment or vice versa (e.g., with respect to one or more of temperature, light, humidity, atmospheric conditions, etc.). One or more walled portions 142 may comprise one or more of glass, plastic, acrylic, polycarbonate, metal, wood, stone, or any other suitable materials.

[0064] FIG. 3B illustrates a side view of the example of the growth chamber 300. As illustrated, a light source 108 may be positioned at an upper portion of the growth chamber 300 to emit or direct light towards or away from one or both of the container 124 or a growth medium 126 that is positioned above the container 124.

[0065] A water temperature sensor 128 may measure a temperature of an aqueous solution 130 held in the container 124. While the container 124 may hold the aqueous solution 130, in some cases, the systems, the methods, the devices, and the techniques provided herein may still be the same as or similar, in at least some respects, if the container 124 holds a non-aqueous fluid. [0066] An intake fan 110 may be positioned at an outer portion of the growth chamber 300 to direct air inside the growth chamber 300 from the external environment. An air filter 112 may filter air prior to the air entering the growth chamber 300 from the external environment. The intake fan 110 may operate in response to atmospheric parameters measured by a CO2 sensor 136

[0067] An exhaust fan 118 may be positioned at a lower portion of the growth chamber 300 to direct air from inside the growth chamber 300 to the external environment. A sealable vent 116 may open prior to the exhaust fan 118 operating in order to enable the growth chamber 300 to direct air from inside the growth chamber 300 to the external environment. The exhaust fan 118 may operate in response to atmospheric parameters measured by the CO2 sensor 136.

[0068] The growth chamber 300 may include further environmental sensors of an air temperature sensor 132 that may be used, at least in part for, providing instructions to one or both of the heat sink 120 or the temperature controller 122.

[0069] A humidifier 104 may be positioned on an outer surface of the growth chamber 300. The humidifier 104 may be in fluid connection to a water reservoir 102 configured to be used when the humidifier 104 is operating to increase humidity in the growth chamber 300. The humidifier 104 may operate in response to instruction generated based at least in part on measurements collected by the air humidity sensor 134.

[0070] FIG. 3C illustrates a rear view of the example of the growth chamber 300. As illustrated, the humidifier 104 may be in fluid connection with a humidifier exhaust 106. In some cases, the humidifier exhaust 106 may be used in decreasing humidity inside the growth chamber 300. In some cases, the humidifier exhaust 106 may be used in other modifying of humidity inside the growth chamber 300. The growth chamber 300 may further include an on/off switch 140 (e.g., for powering on or off one or more of the components of the growth chamber 300), a wireless reset control switch 138 (e.g., for resetting wireless connectivity of one or more components of growth chamber 300), or a combination thereof.

[0071] While FIGs. 3A-3C may illustrate a physical arrangement of the various example components of the growth chamber 300, in practice, one or more of the various example components may be physically arranged in a different suitable arrangement than illustrated. Further, in practice, one or more of the various example components of the growth chamber 300 that are illustrated in FIGs. 3A-3C may be omitted or duplicated in one or more instances. Further, in practice, one or more additional components not illustrated in FIGs. 3A-3C may be included in the growth chamber 300. Example Growth Chambers

[0072] FIGs. 4A-4C illustrate various examples of growth chambers 410.1-410.10 for propagating specimens. The growth chambers 410.1-410.10 may be the same as or similar to, in one or more respects, one or more of the system 100 of FIG. 1, the growth chamber 12 of FIG.

2, or the growth chamber 300 of FIGs. 3A-3C.

[0073] As illustrated in FIGs. 4A-4C with respect to the growth chambers 410.1, 410.5, and

410.6, the growth chambers 410.1, 410.5, and 410.6 may be approximately a rectangular prism in overall shape. As further illustrated, the growth chambers 410.1, 410.5, and 410.6 may include an input and an output configured to enable air to flow between the inside of the growth chambers 410.1, 410.5, and 410.6 and an external environment. As further illustrated, the growth chambers 410.1, 410.5, and 410.6 may be configured to receive two growth vessels. As further illustrated, the growth chamber 410.1 may be configured to be vertically mounted (e.g., to a wall). As further illustrated, the growth chambers 410.5 and 410.6 may be configured to be placed atop a surface (e.g., a table, a shelf, a floor, etc.).

[0074] As illustrated in FIGs. 4A-4C with respect to the growth chambers 410.2, 410.3, and

410.7, the growth chambers 410.2, 410.3, and 410.7 may be approximately a hexagonal prism in overall shape. As further illustrated, the growth chambers 410.2, 410.3, and 410.7 may be configured to receive one growth vessel. As further illustrated, an upper portion (e.g., lid) of the growth chamber 410.2 may be configured to open (e.g., hingedly) to enable a user to provide or remove a growth vessel 415.2 from the growth chamber 410.2.

[0075] As illustrated in FIGs. 4A-4C with respect to the growth chambers 410.4, 410.8, 410.9, and 410.10, the growth chambers 410.4, 410.8, 410.9, and 410.10 may be approximately an ellipsoid in overall shape. As further illustrated, the growth chambers 410.4, 410.8, 410.9, and 410.10 may be configured to receive more than two (e.g., three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, twenty, about thirty, about forty, about fifty, about sixty, about seventy, about eighty, about ninety, about one hundred, etc.) growth vessels. As further illustrated, the growth chamber 410.8 may be empty of growth vessels, while the growth chambers 410.4, 410.9, and 410.10 may be partially filled with growth vessels.

[0076] FIG. 5 illustrates additional various examples of growth chambers 510.1-510.3 for propagating specimens 520.1-520.3 of growth vessels 515.1-515.3, The growth chambers 510.1- 510.3 may be the same as or similar to, in one or more respects, one or more of the system 100 of FIG. 1, the growth chamber 12 of FIG. 2, the growth chamber 300 of FIGs. 3A-3C, or the growth chambers 410.1-410.10 of FIGs. 4A-4C. [0077] As illustrated, the growth chamber 510.1 may include an input or an output configured to enable air to flow between the inside of the growth chambers 510.1 and an external environment. As further illustrated, the growth chamber 510.2 may include a cable for connecting the growth chamber 510.2 to a power source, such as an off-grid power source (e.g., a solar panel, a wind turbine, a hydropower source, etc.) or a grid-based power source (e.g., a power outlet connected to an electric grid). As illustrated, the growth chamber 510.3 may include legs elevating a body of the growth chamber 510.3 above a surface.

[0078] Similarly, FIG. 6 illustrates yet another example of a growth chamber 600 for propagating specimens and may be the same as or similar to, in one or more respects, one or more of the system 100 of FIG. 1, the growth chamber 12 of FIG. 2, the growth chamber 300 of FIGs. 3A-3C, the growth chambers 410.1-410.10 of FIGs. 4A-4C, or the growth chambers 510.1-510.3 of FIG. 5

Example Method

[0079] The systems, the methods, the devices, and the techniques of the present disclosure can be implemented by way of one or more algorithms. The one or more algorithms can be implemented by way of software upon execution by a processor (e.g., the CPU 805 of FIG. 8, which will be described in further detail below). An example algorithm of the one or more algorithms can, for example, implement method 700 of FIG. 7 that includes: obtaining input data from one or more environmental sensors or external input (block 705); and providing instruction to one or more environmental controllers based at least in part on the input data (block 710).

[0080] In some cases, the method 700 may begin with obtaining the input data from the one or more environmental sensors or the external input, wherein the one or more environmental sensors are configured to determine one or more environmental parameters inside a growth chamber configured to receive a growth vessel, wherein the growth chamber comprises a light source configured to direct light towards the growth vessel at block 705. In some cases, the growth vessel comprises a growing medium inoculated with fungal spores. In some cases, the one or more environmental parameters comprises temperature inside the growth chamber. In some cases, the temperature inside the growth chamber comprises one or more of temperature of the growth vessel, temperature of the fungal spores, temperature of a specimen in the growth vessel, or temperature of air in the growth chamber. In some cases, the one or more environmental sensors comprise a temperature sensor configured to determine the temperature inside the growth chamber. In some cases, the temperature sensor comprises: (i) a container configured to house an aqueous solution positioned in direct contact with at least a portion of the growth vessel; and (ii) a thermometer, wherein at least a portion of the thermometer is submerged in the aqueous solution, and wherein the thermometer is configured to measure the temperature of the aqueous solution. In some cases, the one or more environmental parameters comprises atmospheric parameters inside the growth chamber. In some cases, the one or more environmental sensors comprise an atmospheric sensor configured to determine an air constituent amount of air inside the growth chamber. In some cases, environmental sensors comprise a humidity sensor configured to determine the humidity inside the growth chamber. In some cases, the light source comprises one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). In some cases, the light source is configured to emit UV light. In some cases, the light source is configured to direct the light in accordance with a schedule. In some cases, the external input comprises user input from a user. In some cases, the user input is obtained from the user via a mobile device.

[0081] In some cases, the method 700 may continue with providing the instruction to the one or more environmental controllers configured to modify the one or more environmental parameters in the growth chamber based at least in part on the input data at block 710. In some cases, the one or more environmental controllers comprise a temperature controller configured to add or remove heat from the growth chamber, thereby modifying the temperature inside the growth chamber. In some cases, the temperature controller comprises one or both of (i) a heater configured to apply heat to the container in response to the instruction; or (ii) a heat sink configured to remove heat from the container in response to the instruction. In some cases, the one or more environmental controllers comprise an atmospheric controller configured to modify air constituents from air inside the growth chamber, thereby modifying the atmospheric conditions inside the growth chamber. In some cases, the atmospheric controller comprises an air intake fan configured to draw external air from an external environment into the growth chamber in response to the instruction. In some cases, the atmospheric controller further comprises an air intake filter configured to filter the external air prior to the external air entering the growth chamber in response to the instruction. In some cases, the atmospheric controller further comprises an air exhaust blower configured to expel internal air from inside the growth chamber to the external environment in response to the instruction. In some cases, the atmospheric controller further comprises an air exhaust filter configured to filter the internal air prior to the internal air entering the external environment in response to the instruction. In some cases, the atmospheric controller is configured to modify the concentration of one or more particles in the growth chamber in response to the instruction. In some cases, the one or more particles comprises carbon dioxide. In some cases, the one or more environmental controllers comprise a humidity controller configured to modify the humidity in the growth chamber. In some cases, the humidity controller comprises a reservoir in aqueous connection with a humidifier, and wherein the humidity controller is configured to supply water or an aqueous solution in the reservoir to the humidifier in response to the instruction. In some cases, the LED is configured to emit red light in response to the instruction. In some cases, the LED is configured to emit green light in response to the instruction. In some cases, the LED is configured to emit blue light in response to the instruction. [0082] In some cases, while not shown in FIG. 7, the method 700 may include the operations of (A) obtaining specimen parameter data from the growth vessel; and (B) providing the specimen parameter data to the one or more environmental controllers as the external input of the input data, wherein the specimen parameter data is for a specimen corresponding to the growth vessel. In some cases, the specimen parameter data comprises growing instructions for the specimen corresponding to the growth vessel. In some cases, the specimen parameter data comprises an identifier for the specimen corresponding to the growth vessel. In some cases, the growth vessel is tagged with the specimen parameter data. In some cases, the growth vessel is tagged with a powerless indicator comprising one or more of a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, a quick response (QR) code, or a coded resistance band.

[0083] Any number of operations of the method of FIG. 7 may be added or removed. Further, the operations of the method of FIG. 7 may be performed in any order and the illustrated order may be for illustrative purposes. Further, one or more of the operations of the method of FIG. 7 may be repeated, e.g., iteratively.

Example Computer System

[0084] The present disclosure provides computer control systems that are programmed to implement methods of the disclosure. FIG. 8 shows a computer system 801 that is programmed or otherwise configured to implement methods of the disclosure, such as to control the systems or devices described herein (e.g., systems or devices for specimen propagation, etc.). The computer system 801 can be an electronic device of a user or a computer system that is remotely located with respect to the electronic device. The electronic device can be a mobile electronic device. [0085] The computer system 801 includes a central processing unit (CPU, also “processor” and “computer processor” herein) 805, which can be a single core or multi core processor, or a plurality of processors for parallel processing. The computer system 801 also includes memory or memory location 810 (e.g., random-access memory, read-only memory, flash memory), electronic storage unit 815 (e.g., hard disk), communication interface 820 (e.g., network adapter) for communicating with one or more other systems, and peripheral devices 825, such as cache, other memory, data storage or electronic display adapters. The memory 810, storage unit 815, interface 820 and peripheral devices 825 are in communication with the CPU 805 through a communication bus (solid lines), such as a motherboard. The storage unit 815 can be a data storage unit (or data repository) for storing data. The computer system 801 can be operatively coupled to a computer network (“network”) 830 with the aid of the communication interface 820. The network 830 can be the Internet, an isolated or substantially isolated internet or extranet, or an intranet or extranet that is in communication with the Internet. The network 830 in some cases is a telecommunication or data network. The network 830 can include one or more computer servers, which can enable distributed computing, such as cloud computing. The network 830, in some cases with the aid of the computer system 801, can implement a peer-to-peer network, which may enable devices coupled to the computer system 801 to behave as a client or a server. The CPU 805 can execute a sequence of machine-readable instructions, which can be embodied in a program or software. The instructions may be stored in a memory location, such as the memory 810. The instructions can be directed to the CPU 605, which can subsequently program or otherwise configure the CPU 805 to implement methods of the present disclosure. Examples of operations performed by the CPU 805 can include fetch, decode, execute, and writeback. The CPU 805 can be part of a circuit, such as an integrated circuit. One or more other components of the system 801 can be included in the circuit. In some cases, the circuit is an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0086] The storage unit 815 can store files, such as drivers, libraries and saved programs. The storage unit 815 can store user data, e.g., user preferences and user programs. The computer system 801 in some cases can include one or more additional data storage units that are external to the computer system 801, such as located on a remote server that is in communication with the computer system 801 through an intranet or the Internet.

[0087] The computer system 801 can communicate with one or more remote computer systems through the network 830. For instance, the computer system 801 can communicate with a remote computer system of a user. Examples of remote computer systems include personal computers (e.g., portable PC), slate or tablet PC’s (e.g., Apple® iPad, Samsung® Galaxy Tab), telephones, Smart phones (e.g., Apple® iPhone, Android-enabled device, Blackberry®), or personal digital assistants. The user can access the computer system 801 via the network 830.

[0088] Methods as described herein can be implemented by way of machine (e.g., computer processor) executable code stored on an electronic storage location of the computer system 801, such as, for example, on the memory 810 or electronic storage unit 815. The machine executable or machine-readable code can be provided in the form of software. During use, the code can be executed by the processor 805. In some cases, the code can be retrieved from the storage unit 815 and stored on the memory 810 for ready access by the processor 805. In some situations, the electronic storage unit 815 can be precluded, and machine-executable instructions are stored on memory 810. The code can be pre-compiled and configured for use with a machine having a processor adapted to execute the code or can be compiled during runtime. The code can be supplied in a programming language that can be selected to enable the code to execute in a precompiled or as-compiled fashion. [0089] Aspects of the systems and methods provided herein, such as the computer system 801, can be embodied in programming. Various aspects of the technology may be thought of as “products” or “articles of manufacture” typically in the form of machine (or processor) executable code or associated data that is carried on or embodied in a type of machine readable medium. Machine-executable code can be stored on an electronic storage unit, such as memory (e.g., read-only memory, random-access memory, flash memory) or a hard disk. “Storage” type media can include any or all of the tangible memory of the computers, processors or the like, or associated modules thereof, such as various semiconductor memories, tape drives, disk drives and the like, which may provide non-transitory storage at any time for the software programming. All or portions of the software may at times be communicated through the Internet or various other telecommunication networks. Such communications, for example, may enable loading of the software from one computer or processor into another, for example, from a management server or host computer into the computer platform of an application server. Thus, another type of media that may bear the software elements includes optical, electrical, and electromagnetic waves, such as used across physical interfaces between local devices, through wired and optical landline networks and over various air-links. The physical elements that carry such waves, such as wired or wireless links, optical links or the like, also may be considered as media bearing the software. As used herein, unless restricted to non-transitory, tangible “storage” media, terms such as computer or machine “readable medium” refer to any medium that participates in providing instructions to a processor for execution.

[0090] Hence, a machine readable medium, such as computer-executable code, may take many forms, including but not limited to, a tangible storage medium, a carrier wave medium or physical transmission medium. Non-volatile storage media include, for example, optical or magnetic disks, such as any of the storage devices in any computer(s) or the like, such as may be used to implement the databases, etc. shown in the drawings. Volatile storage media include dynamic memory, such as main memory of such a computer platform. Tangible transmission media include coaxial cables; copper wire and fiber optics, including the wires that comprise a bus within a computer system. Carrier-wave transmission media may take the form of electric or electromagnetic signals, or acoustic or light waves such as those generated during radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications. Common forms of computer-readable media therefore include for example: a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, DVD or DVD-ROM, any other optical medium, punch cards paper tape, any other physical storage medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a ROM, a PROM and EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave transporting data or instructions, cables or links transporting such a carrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer may read programming code or data. Many of these forms of computer readable media may be involved in carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions to a processor for execution

[0091] Aspects of the systems and methods provided herein, such as the computer system 801, can be embodied in programming. Various aspects of the technology may be thought of as “products” or “articles of manufacture” typically in the form of machine (or processor) executable code or associated data that is carried on or embodied in a type of machine readable medium. Machine-executable code can be stored on an electronic storage unit, such as memory (e.g., read-only memory, random-access memory, flash memory) or a hard disk. “Storage” type media can include any or all of the tangible memory of the computers, processors or the like, or associated modules thereof, such as various semiconductor memories, tape drives, disk drives and the like, which may provide non-transitory storage at any time for the software programming. All or portions of the software may at times be communicated through the Internet or various other telecommunication networks. Such communications, for example, may enable loading of the software from one computer or processor into another, for example, from a management server or host computer into the computer platform of an application server. Thus, another type of media that may bear the software elements includes optical, electrical, and electromagnetic waves, such as used across physical interfaces between local devices, through wired and optical landline networks and over various air-links. The physical elements that carry such waves, such as wired or wireless links, optical links or the like, also may be considered as media bearing the software. As used herein, unless restricted to non-transitory, tangible “storage” media, terms such as computer or machine “readable medium” refer to any medium that participates in providing instructions to a processor for execution.

[0092] Hence, a machine readable medium, such as computer-executable code, may take many forms, including but not limited to, a tangible storage medium, a carrier wave medium or physical transmission medium. Non-volatile storage media include, for example, optical or magnetic disks, such as any of the storage devices in any computer(s) or the like, such as may be used to implement the databases, etc. shown in the drawings. Volatile storage media include dynamic memory, such as main memory of such a computer platform. Tangible transmission media include coaxial cables; copper wire and fiber optics, including the wires that comprise a bus within a computer system. Carrier-wave transmission media may take the form of electric or electromagnetic signals, or acoustic or light waves such as those generated during radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications. Common forms of computer-readable media therefore include for example: a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, DVD or DVD-ROM, any other optical medium, punch cards paper tape, any other physical storage medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a ROM, a PROM and EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave transporting data or instructions, cables or links transporting such a carrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer may read programming code or data. Many of these forms of computer readable media may be involved in carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions to a processor for execution.

[0093] The computer system 801 can include or be in communication with an electronic display 835 that comprises a user interface (LT) 840 for providing, for example, images (e.g., micrographs) of the substrates or the plurality of beads, along with the analysis of the images (e.g., pitch, spacing, occupancy, intensity, nucleic acid sequence data, etc.). Examples of UFs include, without limitation, a graphical user interface (GUI) and web-based user interface.

[0094] Methods and systems of the present disclosure can be implemented by way of one or more algorithms. An algorithm can be implemented by way of software upon execution by the central processing unit 805. The algorithm can, for example, determine the occupancy, spacing, or other parameters (e.g., full-width half-maximum, mean fluorescence intensity) of an image (e.g., micrograph of a bead or plurality of beads on or adjacent to a substrate).

Examples of Machine Learning Models and Techniques

[0095] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the terms “artificial intelligence,” “artificial intelligence techniques,” “artificial intelligence operation,” and “artificial intelligence algorithm” generally refer to any system or computational procedure that may take one or more actions that simulate human intelligence processes for enhancing or maximizing a chance of achieving a goal. The term “artificial intelligence” may include “generative modeling,” “machine learning” (ML), or “reinforcement learning” (RL).

[0096] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the terms “machine learning,” “machine learning techniques,” “machine learning operation,” and “machine learning model” generally refer to any system or analytical or statistical procedure that may progressively improve computer performance of a task. In some cases, ML may generally involve identifying and recognizing patterns in existing data in order to facilitate making predictions for subsequent data. ML may include a ML model (which may include, for example, a ML algorithm). Machine learning, whether analytical or statistical in nature, may provide deductive or abductive inference based on real or simulated data. The ML model may be a trained model. ML techniques may comprise one or more supervised, semi-supervised, self-supervised, or unsupervised ML techniques. For example, an ML model may be a trained model that is trained through supervised learning (e.g., various parameters are determined as weights or scaling factors). ML may comprise one or more of regression analysis, regularization, classification, dimensionality reduction, ensemble learning, meta learning, association rule learning, cluster analysis, anomaly detection, deep learning, or ultra-deep learning. ML may comprise, but is not limited to: k- means, k-means clustering, k-nearest neighbors, learning vector quantization, linear regression, non-linear regression, least squares regression, partial least squares regression, logistic regression, stepwise regression, multivariate adaptive regression splines, ridge regression, principal component regression, least absolute shrinkage and selection operation (LASSO), least angle regression, canonical correlation analysis, factor analysis, independent component analysis, linear discriminant analysis, multidimensional scaling, non-negative matrix factorization, principal components analysis, principal coordinates analysis, projection pursuit, Sammon mapping, t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding, AdaBoosting, boosting, gradient boosting, bootstrap aggregation, ensemble averaging, decision trees, conditional decision trees, boosted decision trees, gradient boosted decision trees, random forests, stacked generalization, Bayesian networks, Bayesian belief networks, naive Bayes, Gaussian naive Bayes, multinomial naive Bayes, hidden Markov models, hierarchical hidden Markov models, support vector machines, encoders, decoders, auto-encoders, stacked auto-encoders, perceptrons, multi-layer perceptrons, artificial neural networks, feedforward neural networks, convolutional neural networks, recurrent neural networks, long short-term memory, deep belief networks, deep Boltzmann machines, deep convolutional neural networks, deep recurrent neural networks, or generative adversarial networks.

[0097] Training the ML model may include, in some cases, selecting one or more untrained data models to train using a training data set. The selected untrained data models may include any type of untrained ML models for supervised, semi -supervised, self-supervised, or unsupervised machine learning. The selected untrained data models may be specified based upon input (e.g., user input) specifying relevant parameters to use as predicted variables or other variables to use as potential explanatory variables. For example, the selected untrained data models may be specified to generate an output (e.g., a prediction) based upon the input. Conditions for training the ML model from the selected untrained data models may likewise be selected, such as limits on the ML model complexity or limits on the ML model refinement past a certain point. The ML model may be trained (e.g., via a computer system such as a server) using the training data set. In some cases, a first subset of the training data set may be selected to train the ML model. The selected untrained data models may then be trained on the first subset of training data set using appropriate ML techniques, based upon the type of ML model selected and any conditions specified for training the ML model. In some cases, due to the processing power requirements of training the ML model, the selected untrained data models may be trained using additional computing resources (e.g., cloud computing resources). Such training may continue, in some cases, until at least one aspect of the ML model is validated and meets selection criteria to be used as a predictive model.

[0098] In some cases, one or more aspects of the ML model may be validated using a second subset of the training data set (e.g., distinct from the first subset of the training data set) to determine accuracy and robustness of the ML model. Such validation may include applying the ML model to the second subset of the training data set to make predictions derived from the second subset of the training data. The ML model may then be evaluated to determine whether performance is sufficient based upon the derived predictions. The sufficiency criteria applied to the ML model may vary depending upon the size of the training data set available for training, the performance of previous iterations of trained models, or user-specified performance requirements. If the ML model does not achieve sufficient performance, additional training may be performed. Additional training may include refinement of the ML model or retraining on a different first subset of the training dataset, after which the new ML model may again be validated and assessed. When the ML model has achieved sufficient performance, in some cases, the ML may be stored for present or future use. The ML model may be stored as sets of parameter values or weights for analysis of further input (e.g., further relevant parameters to use as further predicted variables, further explanatory variables, further user interaction data, etc.), which may also include analysis logic or indications of model validity in some instances. In some cases, a plurality of ML models may be stored for generating predictions under different sets of input data conditions. In some embodiments, the ML model may be stored in a database (e.g., associated with a server).

Additional Considerations and Certain Definitions

[0099] Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present subject matter belongs.

[0100] As used in this specification and the appended claims, “some embodiments,” “further embodiments,” or “a particular embodiment,” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrase “in some embodiments,” or “in further embodiments,” or “in a particular embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0101] As used in this specification and the appended claims, when the term “at least,” “greater than,” or “greater than or equal to” precedes the first numerical value in a series of two or more numerical values, the term “at least,” “greater than” or “greater than or equal to” applies to each of the numerical values in that series of numerical values. For example, greater than or equal to 1, 2, or 3 is equivalent to greater than or equal to 1, greater than or equal to 2, or greater than or equal to 3.

[0102] As used in this specification and the appended claims, when the term “no more than,” “less than,” or “less than or equal to” precedes the first numerical value in a series of two or more numerical values, the term “no more than,” “less than,” or “less than or equal to” applies to each of the numerical values in that series of numerical values. For example, less than or equal to 3, 2, or 1 is equivalent to less than or equal to 3, less than or equal to 2, or less than or equal to 1.

[0103] As used in this specification, “or” is intended to mean an “inclusive or” or what is also known as a “logical OR,” wherein when used as a logic statement, the expression “A or B” is true if either A or B is true, or if both A and B are true, and when used as a list of elements, the expression “A, B or C” is intended to include all combinations of the elements recited in the expression, for example, any of the elements selected from the group consisting of A, B, C, (A, B), (A, C), (B, C), and (A, B, C); and so on if additional elements are listed. As such, any reference to “or” herein is intended to encompass “and/or” unless otherwise stated.

[0104] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the indefinite articles “a” or “an,” and the corresponding associated definite articles “the” or “said,” are each intended to mean one or more unless otherwise stated, implied, or physically impossible. Yet further, it should be understood that the expressions “at least one of A and B, etc.,” “at least one of A or B, etc.,” “selected from A and B, etc.” and “selected from A or B, etc.” are each intended to mean either any recited element individually or any combination of two or more elements, for example, any of the elements from the group consisting of “A,” “B,” and “A AND B together,” etc.

[0105] As used in this specification and the appended claims “about” or “approximately” may mean within an acceptable error range for the value, which will depend in part on how the value is measured or determined, e.g., the limitations of the measurement system. For example, “about” may mean within 1 or more than 1 standard deviation, per the practice in the art. Alternatively, “about” may mean a range of up to 20%, up to 10%, up to 5%, or up to 1% of a given value.

Where values are described in the application and claims, unless otherwise stated the term “about” meaning within an acceptable error range for the particular value may be assumed. [0106] While various embodiments of the present invention have been shown and disclosed herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. It is not intended that the invention be limited by the specific examples provided within the specification. While the invention has been described with reference to the aforementioned specification, the descriptions and illustrations of the embodiments herein are not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. Furthermore, it shall be understood that all aspects of the invention are not limited to the specific depictions, configurations or relative proportions set forth herein which depend upon a variety of conditions and variables. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention disclosed herein may be employed in practicing the invention. It is therefore contemplated that the invention shall also cover any such alternatives, modifications, variations, or equivalents. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the invention and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby. [0107] It should be noted that various illustrative or suggested ranges set forth herein are specific to their example embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope or range of disclosed technologies, but, again, merely provide example ranges for frequency, amplitudes, etc. associated with their respective embodiments or use cases. Where values are described as ranges, it will be understood that such disclosure includes the disclosure of all possible sub-ranges within such ranges, as well as specific numerical values that fall within such ranges irrespective of whether a specific numerical value or specific sub-range is expressly stated.

[0108] It should be understood that, unless a term is expressly defined in this patent using the sentence “As used herein, the term ‘ ’ is hereby defined to mean . . . “ or a similar sentence, there is no intent to limit the meaning of that term, either expressly or by implication, beyond its plain or ordinary meaning, and such term should not be interpreted to be limited in scope based on any statement made in any section of this patent (other than the language of the claims). To the extent that any term recited in the claims at the end of this patent is referred to in this patent in a manner consistent with a single meaning, that is done for sake of clarity only so as to not confuse the reader, and it is not intended that such claim term be limited, by implication or otherwise, to that single meaning. Finally, unless a claim element is defined by reciting the word “means” and a function without the recital of any structure, it is not intended that the scope of any claim element be interpreted based on the application of 35 U.S.C. § 112, sixth paragraph. [0109] Throughout this specification, plural instances may implement components, operations, or structures described as a single instance. Although individual operations of one or more methods are illustrated and described as separate operations, one or more of the individual operations may be performed concurrently, and nothing requires that the operations be performed in the order illustrated. Structures and functionality presented as separate components in example configurations may be implemented as a combined structure or component. Similarly, structures and functionality presented as a single component may be implemented as separate components. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements fall within the scope of the subject matter herein.

[0110] Additionally, certain embodiments are disclosed herein as including logic or a number of routines, subroutines, applications, or instructions. These may constitute either software (e.g., code embodied on a machine-readable medium) or hardware. In hardware, the routines, etc., are tangible units capable of performing certain operations and may be configured or arranged in a certain manner. In example embodiments, one or more computer systems (e.g., a standalone, client or server computer system) or one or more hardware modules of a computer system (e.g., a processor or a group of processors) may be configured by software (e.g., an application or application portion) as a hardware module that operates to perform certain operations as disclosed herein.

[OHl] In various embodiments, a hardware module may be implemented mechanically or electronically. For example, a hardware module may comprise dedicated circuitry or logic that is permanently configured (e.g., as a special-purpose processor, such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) to perform certain operations. A hardware module may also comprise programmable logic or circuitry (e.g., as encompassed within a general-purpose processor or other programmable processor) that is temporarily configured by software to perform certain operations. It will be appreciated that the decision to implement a hardware module mechanically, in dedicated and permanently configured circuitry, or in temporarily configured circuitry (e.g., configured by software) may be driven by cost and time considerations.

[0112] Accordingly, hardware modules may encompass a tangible entity, be that an entity that is physically constructed, permanently configured (e.g., hardwired), or temporarily configured (e.g., programmed) to opelrate in a certain manner or to perform certain operations disclosed herein. Considering embodiments in which hardware modules are temporarily configured (e.g., programmed), each of the hardware modules need not be configured or instantiated at any one instance in time. For example, where the hardware modules comprise a general -purpose processor configured using software, the general -purpose processor may be configured as respective different hardware modules at different times. Software may accordingly configure a processor, for example, to constitute a particular hardware module at one instance of time and to constitute a different hardware module at a different instance of time.

[0113] Hardware modules can provide information to, and receive information from, other hardware modules. Accordingly, the described hardware modules may be regarded as being communicatively coupled. Where multiple of such hardware modules exist contemporaneously, communications may be achieved through signal transmission (e.g., over appropriate circuits and buses) that connect the hardware modules. In embodiments in which multiple hardware modules are configured or instantiated at different times, communications between such hardware modules may be achieved, for example, through the storage and retrieval of information in memory structures to which the multiple hardware modules have access. For example, one hardware module may perform an operation and store the output of that operation in a memory device to which it is communicatively coupled. A further hardware module may then, at a later time, access the memory device to retrieve and process the stored output. Hardware modules may also initiate communications with input or output devices, and can operate on a resource (e.g., a collection of information). Elements that are described as being coupled and or connected may refer to two or more elements that may be (e.g., direct physical contact) or may not be (e.g., electrically connected, communicatively coupled, etc.) in direct contact with each other, but yet still cooperate or interact with each other.

[0114] The various operations of example methods disclosed herein may be performed, at least partially, by one or more processors that are temporarily configured (e.g., by software) or permanently configured to perform the relevant operations. Whether temporarily or permanently configured, such processors may constitute processor-implemented modules that operate to perform one or more operations or functions. The modules referred to herein may, in some example embodiments, comprise processor-implemented modules.

[0115] Similarly, the methods or routines disclosed herein may be at least partially processor- implemented. For example, at least some of the operations of a method may be performed by one or more processors or processor-implemented hardware modules. The performance of certain operations may be distributed among the one or more processors, not only residing within a single machine, but deployed across a number of machines. In some example embodiments, the processor or processors may be located in a single location (e.g., within a home environment, an office environment or as a server farm), while in other embodiments the processors may be distributed across a number of locations.

[0116] The performance of certain operations may be distributed among the one or more processors, not only residing within a single machine, but deployed across a number of machines. In some example embodiments, the one or more processors or processor-implemented modules may be located in a single geographic location (e.g., within a home environment, an office environment, or a server farm). In other example embodiments, the one or more processors or processor-implemented modules may be distributed across a number of geographic locations.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A device for specimen propagation, comprising: a growth chamber configured to receive a growth vessel; one or more environmental sensors configured to determine one or more environmental parameters in the growth chamber; one or more environmental controllers configured to modify the one or more environmental parameters in the growth chamber; a light source configured to direct light towards the growth vessel; and a processing unit configured to provide instruction to the one or more environmental controllers based at least in part on input data received from the one or more environmental controllers or external input.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the growth vessel comprises a growing medium inoculated with fungal spores.

3. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more environmental parameters comprises a temperature inside the growth chamber.

4. The device of claim 3, wherein the temperature inside the growth chamber comprises temperature of the growth vessel, temperature of the growing medium, temperature of a specimen in the growth vessel, temperature of air in the growth chamber, or any combination thereof.

5. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more environmental sensors comprise a temperature sensor configured to determine the temperature inside the growth chamber.

6. The device of claim 5, wherein the temperature sensor comprises:

(i) a container configured to house an aqueous solution positioned in direct contact with at least a portion of the growth vessel; and

(ii) a thermometer, wherein at least a portion of the thermometer is submerged in the aqueous solution, and wherein the thermometer is configured to measure the temperature of the aqueous solution.

7. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more environmental controllers comprise a temperature controller configured to add or remove heat from the growth chamber, thereby modifying the temperature inside the growth chamber.

8. The device of claim 7, wherein the temperature controller comprises:

(i) a heater configured to apply heat to the container in response to the processing unit providing the instruction; (ii) a heat sink configured to remove heat from the container in response to the processing unit providing the instruction; or

(iii) a combination of (i) and (ii).

9. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more environmental parameters comprises atmospheric parameters inside the growth chamber.

10. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more environmental sensors comprise an atmospheric sensor configured to determine an amount of an air constituent inside the growth chamber.

11. The device any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more environmental controllers comprise an atmospheric controller configured to modify an air constituent inside the growth chamber, thereby modifying the atmospheric parameters inside the growth chamber.

12. The device of claim 11, wherein the atmospheric controller comprises an air intake fan configured to draw external air from an external environment into the growth chamber in response to the processing unit providing the instruction.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein the atmospheric controller further comprises an air intake filter configured to filter the external air prior to the external air entering the growth chamber in response to the processing unit providing the instruction.

14. The device of claim 13, wherein the atmospheric controller further comprises an air exhaust blower configured to expel internal air from inside the growth chamber to the external environment in response to the processing unit providing the instruction.

15. The device of claim 14, wherein the atmospheric controller further comprises an air exhaust filter configured to filter the internal air prior to the internal air entering the external environment in response to the processing unit providing the instruction.

16. The device of any one of claims 11-15, wherein the atmospheric controller is configured to modify a concentration of one or more air constituents in the growth chamber in response to the processing unit providing the instruction.

17. The device of claim 16, wherein the one or more air constituents comprises carbon dioxide.

18. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more environmental parameters comprises humidity inside the growth chamber.

19. The device of claim 18, wherein the one or more environmental sensors comprise a humidity sensor configured to determine the humidity inside the growth chamber.

20. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more environmental controllers comprise a humidity controller configured to modify the humidity in the growth chamber.

21. The device of claim 20, wherein the humidity controller comprises a reservoir in connection with a humidifier, and wherein the humidity controller is configured to supply water or an aqueous solution in the reservoir to the humidifier in response to the processing unit providing the instruction.

22. The device of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a reader configured to obtain specimen parameter data from the growth vessel and transmit the specimen parameter data to the processing unit as the external input, wherein the specimen parameter data is for a specimen corresponding to the growth vessel.

23. The device of claim 22, wherein the specimen parameter data comprises growing instructions for the specimen corresponding to the growth vessel.

24. The device of either claim 22 or 23, wherein the specimen parameter data comprises an identifier for the specimen corresponding to the growth vessel.

25. The device of any one of claims 22-24, wherein the growth vessel is tagged with the specimen parameter data.

26. The device of claim 25, wherein the growth vessel is tagged with a powerless indicator comprising one or more of a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, a quick response (QR) code, or a coded resistance band.

27. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light source comprises one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs).

28. The device of claim 27, wherein the LED is configured to emit red light in response to the processing unit providing the instruction.

29. The device of either claim 27 or 28, wherein the LED is configured to emit green light in response to the processing unit providing the instruction.

30. The device of any one of claims 27-29, wherein the LED is configured to emit blue light in response to the processing unit providing the instruction.

31. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light source is configured to emit ultraviolet (UV) light.

32. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light source is configured to direct the light in accordance with a schedule provided by the processing unit.

33. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the external input comprises user input from a user.

34. The device of claim 33, wherein the user input is obtained from the user via a mobile device.

35. A method for specimen propagation, comprising: (a) obtaining input data from one or more environmental sensors or external input, wherein the one or more environmental sensors are configured to determine one or more environmental parameters inside a growth chamber configured to receive a growth vessel, wherein the growth chamber comprises a light source configured to direct light towards the growth vessel;

(b) providing instruction to one or more environmental controllers configured to modify the one or more environmental parameters in the growth chamber based at least in part on the input data.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the growth vessel comprises a growing medium inoculated with fungal spores.

37. The method of either claim 35 or 36, wherein the one or more environmental parameters comprises temperature inside the growth chamber.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein the temperature inside the growth chamber comprises one or more of temperature of the growth vessel, temperature of the fungal spores, temperature of a specimen in the growth vessel, or temperature of air in the growth chamber.

39. The method of either claim 37 or 38, wherein the one or more environmental sensors comprise a temperature sensor configured to determine the temperature inside the growth chamber.

40. The method of claim 39, wherein the temperature sensor comprises:

41. The method of any one of claims 37-40, wherein the one or more environmental controllers comprise a temperature controller configured to add or remove heat from the growth chamber, thereby modifying the temperature inside the growth chamber.

42. The method of claim 41, wherein the temperature controller comprises one or both of

(i) a heater configured to apply heat to the container in response to the instruction; or

(ii) a heat sink configured to remove heat from the container in response to the instruction.

43. The method of any one of claims 35-42, wherein the one or more environmental parameters comprises atmospheric parameters inside the growth chamber.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein the one or more environmental sensors comprise an atmospheric sensor configured to determine an air constituent amount of air inside the growth chamber.

45. The method of either claim 43 or 44, wherein the one or more environmental controllers comprise an atmospheric controller configured to modify air constituents from air inside the growth chamber, thereby modifying the atmospheric parameters inside the growth chamber.

46. The method of claim 45, wherein the atmospheric controller comprises an air intake fan configured to draw external air from an external environment into the growth chamber in response to the instruction.

47. The method of claim 46, wherein the atmospheric controller further comprises an air intake filter configured to filter the external air prior to the external air entering the growth chamber in response to the instruction.

48. The method of claim 47, wherein the atmospheric controller further comprises an air exhaust blower configured to expel internal air from inside the growth chamber to the external environment in response to the instruction.

49. The method of claim 48, wherein the atmospheric controller further comprises an air exhaust filter configured to filter the internal air prior to the internal air entering the external environment in response to the instruction.

50. The method of any one of claims 45-49, wherein the atmospheric controller is configured to modify the concentration of one or more particles in the growth chamber in response to the instruction.

51. The method of claim 50, wherein the one or more particles comprises carbon dioxide.

52. The method of any one of claims 35-51, wherein the one or more environmental parameters comprises humidity inside the growth chamber.

53. The method of claim 52, wherein the one or more environmental sensors comprise a humidity sensor configured to determine the humidity inside the growth chamber.

54. The method of either claim 52 or 53, wherein the one or more environmental controllers comprise a humidity controller configured to modify the humidity in the growth chamber.

55. The method of claim 54, wherein the humidity controller comprises a reservoir in aqueous connection with a humidifier, and wherein the humidity controller is configured to supply water or an aqueous solution in the reservoir to the humidifier in response to the instruction.

56. The method of any one of claims 35-55, further comprising: obtaining specimen parameter data from the growth vessel; and providing the specimen parameter data to the one or more environmental controllers as the external input of the input data, wherein the specimen parameter data is for a specimen corresponding to the growth vessel.

57. The method of claim 56, wherein the specimen parameter data comprises growing instructions for the specimen corresponding to the growth vessel.

58. The method of either claim 56 or 57, wherein the specimen parameter data comprises an identifier for the specimen corresponding to the growth vessel.

59. The method of any one of claims 56-58, wherein the growth vessel is tagged with the specimen parameter data.

60. The method of claim 59, wherein the growth vessel is tagged with a powerless indicator comprising one or more of a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, a quick response (QR) code, or a coded resistance band.

61. The method of claim 35-60, wherein the light source comprises one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs).

62. The method of claim 61, wherein the LED is configured to emit red light in response to the instruction.

63. The method of either claim 61 or 62, wherein the LED is configured to emit green light in response to the instruction.

64. The method of any one of claims 61-63, wherein the LED is configured to emit blue light in response to the instruction.

65. The method of any one of claims 35-64, wherein the light source is configured to emit ultraviolet (UV) light.

66. The method of any one of claims 35-65, wherein the light source is configured to direct the light in accordance with a schedule.

67. The method of any one of claims 35-66, wherein the external input comprises user input from a user.

68. The method of claim 67, wherein the user input is obtained from the user via a mobile device.

69. A device for specimen propagation, comprising: a growth vessel, comprising:

(i) a growing medium inoculated with one or more reproductive structures for a specimen, and

(ii) a tag configured to provide specimen parameter data for the specimen, wherein the growth vessel is configured to be received by a growth chamber.

70. The device of claim 69, wherein the specimen comprises a fungus and the one or more reproductive structures comprise one or more fungal spores.

71. The device of claim 69, wherein the specimen comprises a plant and the one or more reproductive structures comprise one or more seeds.

72. The device of any one of claims 69-71, wherein the tag is configured to be read by a reader configured to obtain the specimen parameter data from the tag.

73. The device of claim 72, wherein the specimen parameter data comprises growing instructions for the specimen.

74. The device of either claim 72 or 73, wherein the specimen parameter data comprises an identifier for the specimen.

75. The device of any one of claims 69-74, wherein the tag is a powerless indicator comprising one or more of a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, a quick response (QR) code, or a coded resistance band.

76. The device of any one of claims 69-75, wherein the growth chamber is configured to determine one or more environmental parameters in the growth chamber.

77. The device of any one of claims 69-76, wherein the growth chamber is configured to modify the one or more environmental parameters in the growth chamber.

78. The device of either claim 76 or 77, wherein the one or more environmental parameters comprise one or more of a temperature inside the growth chamber, atmospheric parameters inside the growth chamber, or humidity inside the growth chamber.

79. The device of any one of claims 69-78, wherein the growth chamber comprises a light source configured to direct light towards the growth vessel.