WO2024127374A1

WO2024127374A1 - System and method for modular hydroponic enclosure

Info

Publication number: WO2024127374A1
Application number: PCT/IB2023/062872
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sugeevan SHANMUGANATHAN
Original assignee: The Dunya Project Inc.
Priority date: 2022-12-16
Filing date: 2023-12-18
Publication date: 2024-06-20

Abstract

What is disclosed is: A hydroponic enclosure associated with one or more users is created based on a rectangular container home structure. The rectangular container home structure comprises a first side, a back wall, a front wall, a floor and a ceiling. Stabilizing elements are installed in the rectangular container home structure. The floor is covered by a waterproof floor covering. One or more subsystems to facilitate operation of the enclosure are installed, and communicatively coupled to each other via a first one or more interconnections. The one or more subsystems comprise a water distribution subsystem. At least some part of a first section of the water distribution subsystem is either mounted on or proximate to at least one of the first side, the back wall, the ceiling, and the front wall. The one or more subsystems comprise a power supply to supply power.

Description

TITLE: SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MODULAR HYDROPONIC ENCLOSURE

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates to hydroponic enclosures.

SUMMARY

[0002] A hydroponic enclosure associated with one or more users, wherein the hydroponic enclosure is created based on a rectangular container home structure, further wherein the rectangular container home structure comprises a first side, a back wall, a front wall, a floor and a ceiling, further wherein one or more stabilizing elements are installed in the rectangular container home structure, the floor is covered by a waterproof floor covering, and one or more subsystems to facilitate operation of the hydroponic enclosure are installed, further wherein the one or more subsystems are communicatively coupled to each other via a first one or more interconnections, and the one or more subsystems comprise a water distribution subsystem, further wherein at least some part of a first section of the water distribution subsystem is either mounted on or proximate to at least one of the first side, the back wall, the ceiling, and the front wall, and a power supply to supply power to the one or more subsystems other than the power supply.

[0003] A method of configuring a rectangular container home structure into a hydroponic enclosure, wherein the hydroponic enclosure is associated with one or more users, the rectangular container home structure comprises a first side, a back wall, a floor and a ceiling, and the method comprises: installing one or more stabilizing elements in the rectangular container home structure, sealing one or more openings using a sealant, installing a waterproof floor covering to cover the floor, and installing one or more subsystems to facilitate the operation of the hydroponic enclosure, wherein the one or more subsystems are communicatively coupled to each other via a first one or more interconnections, and the one or more subsystems comprise a water distribution subsystem, further wherein a first part of the water distribution subsystem is either mounted on or proximate to at least one of the first side, the back wall, the floor, and the ceiling, and a power supply to supply power to the one or more subsystems other than the power supply.

[0004] A mounting element to mount one or more plurality of towers, wherein the one or more plurality of towers comprises a first plurality of towers, the mounting element comprises a first side; a plurality of supporting elements; and a first plurality of securing elements coupled to the plurality of supporting elements to secure the first plurality of towers to the mounting element on the first side.

[0005] A method to mount one or more plurality of towers on a mounting element, wherein the one or more plurality of towers comprises a first plurality of towers, the mounting element comprises a first side, a plurality of supporting elements, and a first plurality of securing elements coupled to the plurality of supporting elements on the first side, the method comprises securing the first plurality of towers to the mounting element on the first side using the first plurality of securing elements.

[0006] The foregoing and additional aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the detailed description of various embodiments and/or aspects, which is made with reference to the drawings, a brief description of which is provided next.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The foregoing and other advantages of the disclosure will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon reference to the drawings.

[0008] FIG. 1 illustrates an example embodiment of a hydroponic enclosure created based on a rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure.

[0009] FIG. 2 illustrates an example embodiment of a rectangular container home structure in a folded or collapsed state.

[0010] FIG. 3A illustrates a top view of an example embodiment of a hydroponic enclosure.

[0011] FIG. 3B illustrates a side view of an example embodiment of a hydroponic enclosure.

[0012] FIG. 4A illustrates an example embodiment of one or more subsystems facilitating the operation of enclosure 100.

[0013] FIG. 4B illustrates an example embodiment of one or more subsystems in detail.

[0014] FIG. 5A illustrates an example embodiment of a mounting element.

[0015] FIG. 5B illustrates a close up of a section of an example embodiment of a mounting element.

[0016] FIG. 5C illustrates an example embodiment of a plurality of towers mounted to a side of an enclosure using a mounting element. [0017] FIG. 6A illustrates an example embodiment of pluralities of towers mounted to both sides of a mounting element.

[0018] FIG. 6B illustrates an example embodiment of a mounting element coupled to a stand.

[0019] FIG. 7A illustrates an example embodiment of a cylindrical tower.

[0020] FIG. 7B illustrates an example embodiment where a cylindrical tower is comprised of a plurality of sections.

[0021] FIG. 8 illustrates an example embodiment of a section of a water distribution subsystem.

[0022] FIG. 9 illustrates a top and side view of an example embodiment of a plurality of towers illuminated by a plurality of tower lighting units which are horizontally oriented.

[0023] FIG. 10A illustrates a top view of an example embodiment of a plurality of towers illuminated by a plurality of tower lighting units which are vertically oriented.

[0024] FIG. 10B shows an example embodiment of a lighting mount structure to mount a plurality of tower lighting units in a vertical orientation.

[0025] FIG. 10C shows an example embodiment of a lighting mount structure to mount two pluralities of tower lighting units in a vertical orientation.

[0026] FIG. 11 shows an example embodiment of a system to enable monitoring and operating of an enclosure using an enclosure monitoring application.

[0027] FIG. 12 shows an example embodiment of a user device.

[0028] FIG. 13 shows an example embodiment of a processing and control subsystem.

[0029] FIGS. 14A and 14B show an example embodiment of a process for the creation of a hydroponic enclosure based on a rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure.

[0030] While the present disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments or implementations have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. It should be understood, however, that the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of an invention as defined by the appended claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] The foregoing and additional aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the detailed description of various embodiments and/or aspects, which is made with reference to the drawings, a brief description of which is provided next.

[0032] Enclosures for hydroponic crop growth have become increasingly important. Using hydroponic enclosures means that land which may have been unsuitable for agriculture due to, for example, infertility, can now be used to produce food crops. Hydroponic enclosures can also be used to produce food crops in remote and inaccessible areas, so as to enable communities to be self-sustaining and reduce reliance on food which would have to be brought in from elsewhere.

[0033] Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) Application Number PCT/IB2020/052658 to Shanmuganathan was filed on 21 March 2020 and published on 1 October 2020 with International Publication Number W02020/194161 Al. PCT Application Number PCT/IB2020/052658 explain that using hexagonal structures to cover a fixed land area minimizes the total perimeter of the structures. Therefore, this reduces the amount and therefore total cost of materials needed to construct the enclosures, and the difficulty of transporting materials to remote and inaccessible locations to build these enclosures.

[0034] PCT Application Number PCT/IB2020/052658 describes a modular hexagonal enclosure comprising towers and a water distribution subsystem. However, as described in PCT Application Number PCT/IB2020/052658, the water distribution subsystem lies within the working space of the enclosure. This may restrict the amount of working space available to workers to move around and perform work as needed, thereby reducing worker mobility.

[0035] As explained above, using hexagonal enclosures to fill a fixed area minimizes the perimeter, and therefore the amount of materials needed to construct the enclosures. Despite these advantages, there may be disadvantages to using a hexagonal shape. For example, the form factor may make it difficult to scale up the area of an individual enclosure for commercial applications.

[0036] Using a rectangular container as an enclosure may overcome some of these issues. For example, several works of prior art describe the configuration of shipping containers for hydroponics applications. Examples of such prior art include:

PCT Application Publication No. W02023/066016 to Chan, filed 30 September 2022 and published 27 April 2023; “Hydroponics in Shipping Containers: Radicalizing the Way We Grow” by Ryan Stoltz, published February 2, 2021 and retrieved from

12 November 2023;

PCT Application Publication No. WO2017/083692 to Baker, filed 11 November 2016 and published 18 May 2017;

United States Patent 10,172,301 to McNamara et al, filed September 11, 2015 and published January 8, 2019; and

United States Patent 10,219,447 to DeCarli et al, filed October 4, 2017 and published March 5, 2019.

[0037] There are challenges in using shipping containers for hydroponics applications. In particular, since shipping containers are designed for the purpose of shipping goods, they require extensive reconfiguration before they can be used for hydroponics applications. For example, a shipping container would require insulation and extensive modification for the power supply and heating, ventilation and air condition (HVAC) installation necessary to support hydroponics applications. This may take extensive time and effort, thereby increasing cost and complexity. Furthermore, insulation and extensive modification may cause a loss of square footage for the hydroponics application.

[0038] Regulatory issues may arise when using shipping containers for hydroponics applications. For example, regulatory requirements for using shipping containers for agriculture vary from state to state in the United States, and exemptions for building and construction are inconsistent. In some municipalities, there may be additional, for example, zoning rules on the usage of shipping containers for agriculture.

[0039] In the case of used shipping containers, it is difficult to discern what these containers were previously used for, which may make used shipping containers unsuitable for hydroponics applications. For example, it may not be easy to determine if a used shipping container had been used to transport chemicals which would be hazardous to humans. This would render the used shipping container unusable for hydroponics applications. Without extensive records of the previous utilization history of used shipping containers, it may be very difficult to decide whether used shipping containers are suitable for hydroponics applications. [0040] Some other works of prior art describe the use of custom-built rectangular form factor enclosures. An example is the ZipPod container produced by ZipGrow, details of which available at htt s://zipgrow.com/container-farming/ . However, these are expensive and are not easily repairable.

[0041] There is a need for an enclosure with a rectangular form factor which is easily repairable, cost-effective and which can be easily customized for hydroponics applications.

[0042] The following details systems and methods for a modular hydroponic enclosure with a rectangular form factor which overcomes the shortcomings posed by the prior art and prior use solutions described above.

[0043] As explained above, configuring shipping containers to create modular rectangular form factor hydroponic enclosures, and custom-built rectangular form factor hydroponic enclosures, pose challenges and disadvantages.

[0044] A way to overcome these challenges is by creating hydroponic enclosures based on a rectangular container home structure or a rectangular container commercial structure. Configuring a rectangular container home structure or a rectangular container commercial structure for use as a hydroponics enclosure offers advantages over configuring shipping containers and custom-built rectangular form factor enclosures. These home or commercial structures are typically designed for residential and commercial applications where there is likely to be human occupation; meaning that these structures are expressly pre-designed, prepared or pre- configured for human occupation. In this case, human occupation refers to humans occupying the home or commercial structures for long periods of time such as hours or even days as would be typical of a residential or commercial or office environment. Examples of measures taken to prepare or pre-configure these home or commercial structures for human occupation include:

These structures either being insulated or having appropriate spaces for addition of insulation or extra insulation;

These structures being pre-configured for HVAC and power supply installation;

[0045] Having these measures in place offers advantages over new shipping containers, which are highly unlikely to be prepared or pre-configured in the same way. This is because shipping containers were not designed for human occupation in the same way as the rectangular container home or commercial structures. [0046] The home and commercial structures are less likely to be used to store and transport materials which are inimical to human occupation, which makes the structures more suitable for hydroponic applications when compared to used shipping containers. Additionally, such structures are less likely to pose regulatory issues compared to shipping containers. All of these reasons make these structures more amenable for configuration as hydroponic enclosures compared to shipping containers, thereby leading to reduced cost and complexity relative to shipping containers. Furthermore, these structures are already mass produced for the residential, and commercial markets, which means that the per unit costs are likely to be lower than custom-built enclosures. Configuring these structures to use parts which can be obtained from standard hardware or hydroponics inventories or libraries increases repairability.

[0047] The prior art and prior use systems do not contemplate creating a hydroponic enclosure based on a rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure; or configuring a rectangular container home or rectangular container commercial structure into a hydroponic enclosure. As will be seen below, in some embodiments, certain configuration steps are performed to achieve these aims.

[0048] FIG. 1 shows an example of a hydroponic enclosure 100 which has been created based on a rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure. In FIG. 1, a rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure 102 has been configured to operate as a hydroponic enclosure. One or more users 105 are associated with the enclosure 100. The one or more users 105 use the enclosure 100 to produce hydroponic crops such as fruit, vegetables, herbs, flowers or any type of crop suitable for growth in such an enclosure. The one or more users 105 are, for example, farmers, agricultural workers, settlers, gardeners, homeowners and restaurateurs. As shown in FIG. 1, enclosure 100 is attached to a surface 104. Enclosure 100 is attached to the surface 104 using techniques known to those of skill in the art. Surface 104 is, for example, ground, a cement surface, a wooden surface or any surface suitable for attachment of enclosure 100.

[0049] In some embodiments, the rectangular container home structure 102 conforms to standard shipping dimensions. For example, in some embodiments the rectangular container home structure has a length of 20 feet (6.096 m). This enables easier scalability for commercial grade applications. [0050] In some embodiments, the rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure is foldable or collapsible. FIG. 2 shows an example of a rectangular container home structure 102 in a folded or collapsed state, for example, in fully collapsed or folded state 201; or partially unfolded state 203. Having structures in a fully folded state makes it easier to transport these structures to a location where the hydroponic enclosure will be situated. Then prior to configuring the rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure to operate as a hydroponic enclosure at the location, the rectangular container home structure 102 is unfolded into an unfolded state.

[0051] After the rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure 102 is unfolded, cracks and openings may occur. While such cracks and openings may be tolerable in residential and office environments, in a hydroponic environment this may reduce performance. Then, in some embodiments, any cracks or openings which may reduce isolation of hydroponic enclosure 100 from the external environment and thereby reduce the performance of the hydroponic enclosure 100 is sealed using a sealant.

[0052] FIGS. 3 A and 3B shows top and side views of the enclosure 100 respectively. The interior 301 of enclosure 100 corresponds to the interior of the rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure 102.

[0053] The interior 301 comprises a ceiling 303 corresponding to the ceiling of the rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure 102.

[0054] The interior 301 comprises a floor 305 corresponding to the floor of the rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure 102.

[0055] The interior 301 comprises sides 307 and 309 corresponding to the sides of the rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure 102.

[0056] The interior 301 comprises back wall 311 corresponding to the back wall of the rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure 102.

[0057] The interior 301 comprises front wall 313 corresponding to the front wall of the rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure 102. Front wall 313 comprises entrance 315, and door 317 to cover entrance 315. Door 317 is, for example, one of: a hinged door, or a sliding door. [0058] The exterior 351 of the enclosure 100 corresponds to the exterior of the rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure 102.

[0059] In some embodiments, panels make up interior 301 and exterior 351 of the structure 102. Then, in some embodiments, insulation is pre-installed between the panels which make up interior 301 and exterior 351 of the structure 102. In other embodiments, spaces are left for installation of insulation between the panels which make up interior 301 and exterior 351 of the structure 102. Then in order to configure the structure into an enclosure, the one or more users 105 may need to add insulation, or add extra insulation.

[0060] In some embodiments the colours of these panels may not match the rest of the interior 301 and the exterior 351. Then as will be described below, the panels need to be painted as part of the configuration of the structure 102 into a hydroponic enclosure.

[0061] In some embodiments, the structure 102 may come with windows or openings for windows. Then, as will be explained below, these windows need to be removed and replaced with galvanized steel sheets; or galvanized steel sheets need to installed over the openings, as part of the configuration process.

[0062] As part of the configuration process, it is advantageous to enhance the overall stability of the enclosure to, for example, reduce the risk of damage to the crops inside. In some embodiments, the configuration process comprises stabilization via the installation of one or more stabilizing elements. For example, in some embodiments the installation of the one or more stabilizing elements comprises reinforcing the ceiling 303 through installation of a central beam. An example embodiment is shown in FIG. 3B, where central beam 315 is installed in the centre of ceiling 303. The central beam 315 extends from the front wall 313 to the back wall 311, and is coupled to both front wall 313 and back wall 311, using one or more techniques known to those of skill in the art. The central beam 315 is coupled to ceiling 303. In yet other embodiments, the installation of the one or more stabilizing elements comprises installation of one or more structural bolts.

[0063] The floor 305 may comprise underflooring. As is known to one of skill in the art, hydroponic environments are likely to produce more water spillage when compared to a residential or office environment. Then, in some embodiments, the configuration process comprises installing a waterproof floor covering over floor 305. In some embodiments, this waterproof floor covering is made using industrial-grade vinyl. The waterproof floor covering serves to prevent water seepage into the floor and the underflooring, thereby mitigating the risk of mould formation and enhancing the hygiene and durability of the hydroponic environment. The waterproof floor covering is installed to ensure a strong waterproof seal is created. In some embodiments, to ensure a strong waterproof seal is created, some portion of the waterproof floor covering overlaps at least one of the sides, front wall and back wall.

[0064] In some embodiments, the configuration process comprises installing one or more subsystems to facilitate the operation of enclosure 100. An example embodiment of this is shown in FIG. 4A, where one or more subsystems 400 facilitate the operation of enclosure 100. An example embodiment of one or more subsystems 400 will now be described in more detail in FIG. 4B.

[0065] In FIG. 4B, one or more subsystems 400 comprises HVAC subsystem 402. HVAC subsystem 402 comprises heating, ventilation and air conditioning components 404, 406 and 408. The heating component 404 comprises heating devices and systems to heat the interior of the enclosure to a suitable ambient temperature. Examples of heating devices include but are not limited to, for example, a ceramic heater, space heating, gas-fired, propane and geothermal heating devices. In some embodiments, heating component 404 comprises heating systems which use excess heating produced by other buildings close to enclosure 100. HVAC subsystem 402 also enables homogenization and equal distribution of air flow to all the plants within the enclosure.

[0066] The ventilation component 406 comprises ventilation devices and systems to maintain the desired composition of air in the interior of the enclosure, and additionally assist in cooling as necessary. In some embodiments, the ventilation component 406 comprises a plurality of bee-wax piston-controlled vents are used to allow for passive venting. In some of the embodiments where the bee- wax piston-controlled vents are used, these bee- wax piston-controlled vents are placed on opposite walls at different heights. In additional embodiments, the ventilation component 406 comprises an oscillating fan for active ventilation. In yet other embodiments, the ventilation component 406 comprises mechanical venting for cases where the enclosure exterior temperature is below a threshold temperature, for example 0°C (32°F). In yet other embodiments, the ventilation component 406 comprises oxygen and carbon dioxide recycling subsystems.

[0067] The cooling component 408 comprises cooling devices and systems to cool the interior 301 of the enclosure to a suitable ambient temperature. The cooling component 408 includes, for example, air-conditioning (AC) devices and systems and fans. As explained above, the ventilation component 406 may additionally assist with cooling.

[0068] As explained previously, rectangular container home structures or rectangular container commercial structures such as structure 102 are more likely to be pre-configured for installation of HVAC subsystems such as subsystem 402 when compared to shipping containers; since these structures are designed for human occupation as described previously. This reduces the time needed to configure a rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure into a hydroponic enclosure, compared to a shipping container.

[0069] Returning to FIG. 4B, growth subsystem 419 concerns the equipment necessary to ensure proper growth of the hydroponic crops within enclosure 100. This may include, for example, nutrient delivery systems, the towers, and other equipment such as conveyor belts. In some embodiments, nutrients are delivered to the towers via addition to water inside the reservoirs which are part of the water distribution subsystem 410. Then, the nutrient delivery systems comprise the reservoirs and pipes necessary to deliver the nutrients to the towers. In some embodiments, the addition of nutrients to the water inside the reservoirs are performed automatically.

[0070] Water distribution subsystem 410 plays the role of ensuring that an appropriate amount of water is supplied to enclosure 100 to enable proper crop growth, and that water is appropriately drained or removed from enclosure 100 after usage. The water distribution subsystem 410 also plays the role of ensuring that water is supplied and water is drained or removed from towers in the enclosure after usage, which will be described further below. Water distribution subsystem 410 comprises, for example, pipes, valves, tubes, pumps, taps, water purification units and other devices and systems necessary to ensure proper supply and removal of water after usage.

[0071] Further details of growth subsystem 419 and water distribution subsystem 410 are now provided.

[0072] As explained above, installing a water distribution subsystem within the working space of the enclosure reduces worker mobility. Therefore mounting at least some part of the water distribution subsystem on, for example, one or more of the sides, back wall, ceiling and front wall of the enclosure have the effect of freeing up the working space of the enclosure, and therefore increasing the mobility enjoyed by the one or more users 105. [0073] To facilitate this, at least some of the towers in the enclosure are also mounted to one or more of the sides of the enclosure. In some embodiments, a mounting element is used to mount a plurality of towers to a side of an enclosure. FIG. 5A shows an example embodiment of such a mounting element 501, and FIG. 5B shows a close up of a section of mounting element 501. As can be seen in FIG. 5B, the mounting element 501 comprises enclosure coupling members 503A, 503B and 503C to couple the mounting element to a side of the enclosure. In some embodiments, securing members such as securing members 507A, 507B, 507C, 507D, 507E and 507F of FIG. 5B are attached to the mounting element 501, and act to secure the towers to the mounting element. The structure of mounting element 501 further comprises supporting members, such as horizontal bar 505 shown in FIG. 5B. Horizontal bars such as horizontal bar 505 are then coupled to two or more vertical bars such as vertical bar 511 using coupling elements such as elements 509A and 509B. In some embodiments, the securing members are attached to the supporting elements, as shown in FIG. 5B.

[0074] FIG. 5C shows a plurality of towers 5C-02 mounted to side 307 of enclosure 100 using mounting element 501. Plurality of towers 5C-02 are secured to mounting element 501 using securing members such as securing members 507A, 507B, 507C, 507D, 507E and 507F. The mounting element is in turn coupled to side 307 of the enclosure using the enclosure coupling members.

[0075] In some embodiments, pluralities of towers are mounted in the centre of the interior 301 of the enclosure 100. This is achieved by having the mounting element 501 coupled to at least one of the floor 305 and the ceiling 303 of the enclosure in the centre of the enclosure. This enables securing elements to be attached to both sides of the mounting element. Then, towers can be secured to both sides of the mounting element. In some embodiments the mounting element 501 is coupled to the ceiling 303 of the enclosure via central beam 315.

[0076] An example embodiment is shown in FIG. 6A. In FIG. 6A, mounting element 609 is coupled to ceiling 303 via central beam 315. This is achieved using enclosure coupling members such as enclosure coupling member 621-1. Mounting element 609 comprises sides 602-1 and 602- 2. Plurality of towers 603 is coupled to side 602-1, and plurality of towers 601 is coupled to side 602-2. As is shown in the top view, the upper parts of plurality of towers 601 are coupled to side 602-1 by securing elements 605-1 to 605-N. The upper parts of plurality of towers 603 are secured to side 602-2 by securing elements 607-1 to 607-N. Additional securing elements are used to mount each of the plurality of towers to the sides. For example, as is shown in the side view, in addition to securing element 607-1 being used to secure the upper part of one of plurality of towers 601 to side 602-1, securing elements 613-1 and 617-1 are used to secure the middle and lower parts of the same one of plurality of towers 601 to side 602-1. Similarly, securing elements 605-1, 611-1 and 615-1 are used to secure one of plurality of towers 603 to side 602-2. While an embodiment of a mounting element coupled to the ceiling is shown in FIG. 6A, one of skill in the art would appreciate that the mounting element 609 could also be coupled to the floor 305 using enclosure coupling members.

[0077] In some embodiments, pluralities of towers are mounted to at least one of the sides of the enclosure, as explained above; and pluralities of towers are mounted in the centre of the enclosure, also as explained above.

[0078] In yet other embodiments, the mounting element is coupled to a stand. An example of such an arrangement is shown in FIG. 6B, where mounting element 6B-01 is coupled to stand 6B-03. In some embodiments, the stand 6B-03 includes mobility-enabling elements such as casters or wheels so that it can be mounted in an enclosure or in a room and moved around as needed.

[0079] The towers will now be described in more detail. In some embodiments, at least one of this plurality of towers is shaped cylindrically. In other embodiments, at least one of this plurality of towers is shaped hexagonally.

[0080] FIG. 7A shows an example embodiment of a cylindrical tower 701. Tower 701 comprises a plurality of pods 707. In the embodiment shown, all the pods such as pod 705 face one direction. Then, when a tower is secured to the mounting element and mounted to a side of the enclosure 100, the pods are configured so that they face away from the mounting element and the side of the enclosure. This enables the one or more users to easily interact with the pods.

[0081] FIG. 7A shows close-ups of pod 705, which is one of the plurality of pods 707. Individual plants are placed into each of the plurality of pods. The plurality of pods are oriented at an angle 771 to the cylindrical tower 701. In some embodiments, this angle falls within an optimal range, that is, between a minimum value and a maximum value. If the angle 771 exceeds the maximum value, then the plant within the pod is not supported correctly. If the angle 771 is less than the minimum value, this reduces the amount of pods that can be placed on the surface. Then, angle 771 is set to ensure that pods are correctly supported, while a sufficient amount of pods can be placed on the surface to ensure adequate production of crops within the tower. [0082] In some embodiments, the tower is comprised of a plurality of sections. Then, prior to use, the tower must be assembled from the plurality of sections. An example embodiment is shown in FIG. 7B. In FIG. 7B, the plurality of sections which makes up tower 601 comprises sections 7B-01, 7B-02 and 7B-03. 7B-01 is the lowest section of the tower, and it is the section which is closest to the lower return water pipe. Then next section 7B-02 is connected to section 7B-01, section 7B-03 is connected to section 7B-02, and so on until the tower 601 assembly is complete.

[0083] An example embodiment of section 700 of water distribution subsystem 410 is shown in FIG. 8. Section 700 supplies water to, and removes water from, plurality of towers SC- 02, which is secured to side 307 of enclosure 100. Section 700 comprises a lower water return distribution subsystem 701 and an upper water return distribution subsystem 703. The lower water return distribution subsystem 701 acts to take water from the bottoms of plurality of towers SC- 02, and return this to the upper water return distribution subsystem 703. Lower water return pipe 711 receives water from the bottoms of the plurality of towers 5C-02, and drains this received water into reservoir 705. Pump 707 pumps water from reservoir 705 through connecting pipe 709 up to upper water return distribution subsystem 703. In some embodiments, reservoir 705 is designed to be movable. In some embodiments, the reservoirs are rectangular. In other embodiments, the reservoirs are trapezoidal. In some embodiments, lower water return pipe 711, reservoir 705, pump 707 and pipe 709 are either coupled or proximate to one or more of side 307 of the enclosure, back wall 311, ceiling 303 or floor 305 of enclosure 100. As explained previously, this frees up more working space for the one or more users 105.

[0084] The upper water return distribution subsystem 703 acts to feed water into the plurality of towers 5C-02, as will be explained below. For example, as shown in FIG. 7 a plurality of water feed subsystems 713 are attached to upper water return pipe 715. Each of the plurality of water feed subsystems 713 is associated with one of the plurality of towers 5C-02. Then, each of the plurality of water feed subsystems 713 feeds water into the top of the associated one of the plurality of towers 5C-02. Upper water return pipe 715 is coupled to connecting pipe 709. Then, water that is pumped through connecting pipe 709 is received by upper water return pipe 715 and fed into the tops of the plurality of towers 5C-02 via the plurality of water feed subsystems 713. This water drips down through the plurality of towers 5C-02 to the bottoms and into lower water return pipe 711. In some embodiments, upper water return pipe 715 is either coupled or proximate to one or more of side 307 of the enclosure, back wall 311 or ceiling 303 of enclosure 100. As explained previously, this frees up more working space for the one or more users 105.

[0085] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of water feed subsystems 713 are configured to be disassembled and reassembled to, for example, enable easier cleaning. In some embodiments, a water feed subsystem is set to either an ON state or an OFF state. While in an ON state, water is directed by the water feed subsystem to the tower associated with the water feed subsystem. In an OFF state, the water feed subsystem acts to stop water being fed to the tower associated with the water feed subsystem.

[0086] In some embodiments, pluralities of towers such as plurality 5C-02 are mounted on mounting elements coupled to sides 307 and 309 of enclosure 100. Then, parts of water distribution subsystem 410 similar to section 700 are used to supply each of these pluralities of towers.

[0087] As previously described above and with reference to FIG. 6A, in some embodiments, pluralities of towers are mounted on both sides of mounting elements coupled to at least one of the floor 305 or ceiling 303 in the centre of the enclosure 100. Then, parts of water distribution subsystem 410 similar to section 700 are used to supply each of these pluralities of towers. In some embodiments, some of the components of the parts of the water distribution subsystem used to supply water to, and remove water from these pluralities of towers in the centre of the enclosure are placed along floor 305 and ceiling 303 to ensure that the one or more users have sufficient space to move.

[0088] In some embodiments, the pluralities of towers mounted to the sides 307 and 309 of enclosure 100 drain water into one or more reservoirs, and the pluralities of towers which are mounted in the centre utilize one or more reservoirs separate from the one or more reservoirs used for the pluralities of towers mounted to the sides of the enclosure. This separation helps free up working space for one or more users 105 to move around the enclosure 100.

[0089] In some embodiments, pumps of different power levels are used for the pluralities of towers mounted to the sides and for the pluralities of towers mounted in the centre of the enclosure. For example, a first one or more pumps, each having a first power level, are used for the pluralities of towers mounted to the sides; and a second one or more pumps, each having a second power level, are used for the pluralities of towers mounted in the centre of the enclosure.

[0090] Returning to FIG. 4B, lighting subsystem 412 comprises devices and systems necessary to provide sufficient illumination to ensure proper crop growth and also for one or more users 105 to work within the enclosure 100. In some embodiments, lighting subsystem 412 comprises light emitting diodes (LED) spectrum lighting of 4 to 6 feet (1.21 to 1.83 m) in length.

[0091] FIG. 9 shows an example embodiment of lighting subsystem 412 in enclosure 100. In some embodiments, each lighting subsystem comprises a plurality of tower lighting units. Then, in some embodiments, each of the tower lighting units is oriented horizontally to illuminate the towers. For example, FIG. 9 shows top and front views of a plurality of towers 5C-02 together with tower lighting units 901, 903 and 905. In FIG. 9, tower lighting units 901, 903 and 905 are oriented horizontally to illuminate plurality of towers 5C-02, and coupled to ceiling 303 via coupling elements 907 as shown in FIG. 9. Coupling elements 907 comprise, for example, chains, wires, ropes and other suitable parts to couple the tower lighting units to the ceiling 303 known to those of skill in the art.

[0092] In other embodiments, each of the tower lighting units are oriented vertically. For example, FIG. 10A shows a top view of a plurality of towers 5C-02 illuminated by plurality of tower lighting units 1001 which are oriented vertically.

[0093] FIG. 10B shows an example embodiment of a structure to mount lighting units so that they are oriented vertically. Lighting mount structure 10B-01 is attached to, for example, ceiling 303. Plurality of tower lighting units 1001 is oriented vertically and attached to frame 10B-03, which is coupled to structure 10B-01 via slidable elements 10B-05. These slidable elements 10B- 05 allow frame 10B-03 to be slid as needed so that one or more users 105 can access a plurality of towers such as plurality of towers 5C-02 of FIG. 10A.

[0094] The arrangement of FIG. 10B shows one plurality of tower lighting units attached to a structure. This is suitable to illuminate towers mounted to a side such as side 307 of the enclosure 100. In other embodiments, two pluralities of tower lighting units are attached to the structure to illuminate, for example, two pluralities of towers which are mounted in the centre of the enclosure, such as pluralities 601 and 603 as shown in FIG. 6A. An example embodiment is shown in FIG. 10C. Pluralities of tower lighting units 1001 and 1011 are oriented vertically and attached to frames 10B-03 and 10C-03. Frame 10C-03 is coupled to structure 10C-01 via slidable elements 10C-05. Similar to as described above for frame 10B-03, these slidable elements 10C-05 allow frame 10C- 03 to be slid as needed, so that one or more users 105 can access pluralities of towers such as pluralities 601 and 603 of FIG. 6 A. [0095] Communication subsystem 414 is communicatively coupled to devices, systems and networks external to enclosure 100, to enable the subsystems and components of enclosure 100 to communicate with these external devices, systems and networks. Communications subsystem 414 allows for reception and transmission of communications via at least one of wired and wireless communications technologies using systems and methods known to those of skill in the art. This includes communications using various available network technologies including, for example, Campus Area Network (CAN), Local Area Network (LAN), BLUETOOTH®, Wi-Fi, Near Field Communications (NFC), Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), 3G, Long Term Evolution (LIE), 5G, Universal Serial Bus (USB) and other protocols known to those of skill in the art. Communication subsystem 414 plays the roles of: transmitting communications received from external devices, systems and networks to the other subsystems; and transmitting communications received from other subsystems to the external devices, systems and networks.

[0096] Sensors 416 are responsible for detecting environmental conditions both inside and outside the enclosure 100. Examples of sensors 416 include: pH sensors, electrical conductivity sensors to perform water tests and determine nutrient concentrations, enclosure interior temperature sensors, enclosure exterior temperature sensors, humidity sensors, water level and flow rate sensors, nutrient level and rates of change sensors, lighting level sensors, carbon dioxide (CO2) level sensors, door open/closed sensors, power consumption sensors, solar condition sensors, wind condition sensors, battery level sensors, and generator fuel level sensors.

[0097] Security subsystem 418 is utilized to help secure enclosure 100 against unwanted intruders such as thieves or animals. Security subsystem 418 comprises one or more security devices and subsystems such as cameras, alarms, motion sensors, intruder detection subsystems, electrified fences, door locking systems.

[0098] Interconnections 420 electrically and communicatively couples the subsystems and components of enclosure 100. Interconnections 420 allows for signals other than power to be transmitted between the subsystems as necessary.

[0099] Enclosure 100 is powered using the power supplied by power supply 422. Power supply 422 powers the other subsystems of enclosure 100 including HVAC subsystem 402, water distribution subsystem 410, lighting subsystem 412, communication subsystem 414, sensors 416 and security subsystem 418. In some embodiments, the power supply 422 comprises at least one renewable power source such as solar, wind or geothermal power. In some of the embodiments where the power supply comprises power drawn from solar energy; power is drawn from solar panels placed on the roof of enclosure 100. In some of the embodiments where the power supply 422 comprises power drawn from wind energy; the power is drawn from wind turbines. In some other embodiments, the power supply 422 comprises at least one non-renewable power source such as a diesel power generator. In further embodiments, the power supply 422 comprises a connection to a power grid to draw power from a power grid. In yet other embodiments, the power supply 422 comprises at least one primary and at least one secondary source. Then, if the at least one primary source supplies insufficient power or fails, power is drawn from the at least one secondary source. In yet other embodiments, the power supply 422 comprises at least one battery. In some of these embodiments, the at least one battery is rechargeable to allow storage of surplus power. This is useful in, for example, environments where the power source is intermittent. For example, if the enclosure 100 is supplied using solar power, then during times when more solar power than necessary for the operation of the enclosure is generated, the at least one battery is charged using the surplus power. Then if insufficient solar power is generated, power can be drawn from the at least one battery to supply the enclosure. A similar arrangement can be used for other power sources such as wind power.

[00100] As explained previously, a rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure are more likely to be pre-designed, prepared or pre-configured for human occupation. As part of this pre-configuration or preparation, a rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure is more likely to be amenable to the installation of power supply subsystems necessary to support hydroponics applications, when compared to a shipping container.

[00101] In some embodiments, the enclosure is monitored and operated using an enclosure monitoring application or "app" running on a user device. An example embodiment of a system to enable this, is system 1100 shown in FIG. 11. In system 1100, user device 1101 is associated with one or more users 105. One or more subsystems 400 is communicatively coupled to networks 1102 via, for example communicative subsystem 414 being communicatively coupled to networks 1102. Then user device 1101, the one or more subsystems 400, and processing and control subsystem 1103 are communicatively coupled to each other via, for example, networks 1102. As explained previously, one or more subsystems 400 facilitate the operation of enclosure 100, and processing and control subsystem 1103. Networks 1102 can be implemented using a variety of networking and communications technologies. In some embodiments, networks 1102 are implemented using wired technologies such as Firewire, Universal Serial Bus (USB), Ethernet and optical networks. In some embodiments, networks 1102 are implemented using wireless technologies such as WiFi, BLUETOOTH®, NFC, 3G, 5G, satellite, radio frequency (RF) technologies, and LIE. In some embodiments, networks 1102 comprise at least one public network. In some embodiments, networks 1102 comprise at least one private network. In some embodiments, networks 1102 comprise one or more subnetworks.

[00102] User device 1101 is, for example a smartwatch, smartphone, tablet, laptop, or any appropriate computing and network-enabled device. An embodiment of user device 1101 is shown in FIG. 12. Processor 1201-1 performs processing functions and operations necessary for the operation of user device 1101, using data and programs stored in storage 1201-2. An example of such programs are enclosure monitoring application 1201-4 which will be discussed in more detail below, and browser 1201-8. Display 1201-3 performs the function of displaying data and information for user 101. Input devices 1201-5 allow one or more users 105 to enter information. This includes, for example, devices such as a touch screen, mouse, keypad, keyboard, microphone, camera, video camera and so on. In one embodiment, display 1201-3 is a touchscreen which means it is also part of input devices 1201-5. Communications module 1201-6 allows user device 1101 to communicate with devices and networks external to user device 1101. This includes, for example, communications via BLUETOOTH®, Wi-Fi, Near Field Communications (NFC), Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), 3G, Long Term Evolution (LTE), Universal Serial Bus (USB) and other protocols known to those of skill in the art. The components of user device 1101 are coupled to each other as shown in FIG. 12.

[00103] Enclosure monitoring application 1201-4 allows user device 1101 to interact with processing and control subsystem 1103 and the one or more subsystems 400 which, as explained before and shown in FIG. 4A, facilitate the operation of enclosure 100 over networks 1102 to perform various functions and operations.

[00104] In some embodiments, the enclosure monitoring application 1201-4 comprises sensor interface functionality to allow user device 1101 to interact either directly or indirectly with sensors 416 of FIG. 4B. In one embodiment this interaction is performed using, for example, processing and control subsystem 1103. This functionality allows, for example, a user to monitor the previously described growth conditions or parameters using user device 1101 remotely. As explained previously, examples of growth parameters which are tracked and recorded include:

- pH, electrical conductivity, enclosure interior temperature, humidity, water levels and flow rates, nutrient levels and rates of change, lighting levels,

CO2 levels, door open/closed, power consumption, solar conditions, wind conditions, water temperature, battery level, and generator fuel level. [00105] In addition to the sensor interface functionality, the enclosure monitoring application 1201-4 enables the user to monitor and operate the one or more subsystems 400. Examples of monitoring and operating the one or more subsystems 400 include:

HVAC subsystem 402: The enclosure monitoring application enables monitoring and operation of the devices and components which are part of HVAC subsystem 402. For example, using the application 1201-4, heaters and AC units can be controlled to set the temperature accordingly. Vents can be opened or closed to change, for example, the CO2 levels.

Water distribution subsystem 410: The enclosure monitoring application allows monitoring and operation of the devices within parts of water distribution subsystem 410, such as section 700 of FIG. 8. For example, water pump 707 can be turned on and off, or one of plurality of water feed subsystems 713 can be turned on or off.

Lighting subsystem 412: The enclosure monitoring application allows monitoring and operation of the devices and systems which form part of lighting subsystem 412. For example, using the enclosure monitoring application, lights can be turned on and off or brightened and dimmed in different areas.

Security subsystem 418: The enclosure monitoring application allows for monitoring and operation of the devices and systems which are part of security subsystem 418. For example, users can use security cameras to view the interior and exterior of the enclosure. Growth subsystem 419: The enclosure monitoring application allows for monitoring and operations of the devices and systems which are part of growth subsystem 419. For example, users can control the rate at which a conveyor belt operates, or nutrients are added automatically to a reservoir as described previously.

Power supply 422: The enclosure monitoring application enables monitoring and operation of the devices and systems which are part of power supply 422.

[00106] In addition, the enclosure monitoring application 1201-4 comprises a user interface to perform the sensor interface and subsystem operation and monitoring functionalities. In one embodiment, the user interface is displayed on display 1201-3 of user device 1101. Then, a user can enter commands for the user interface via input devices 1201-5 of user device 1101, such as via a mobile device touchscreen, or a mouse, or a keyboard, or a microphone. [00107] Browser 1201-8 is used to interface with the World Wide Web. In some embodiments, browser 1201-8 communicates with a website interface to processing and control subsystem 1103.

[00108] In other embodiments, users are able to share data with each other. Each user is able to input what each tower in is growing and through the sharing portion, other users will be able to see what other habitats are growing and for what cost.

[00109] Processing and control subsystem 1103 performs several different functions such as: collecting data from sensors 416, receiving commands from user device 1101 and supplying data collected from sensors 416 in response to commands received, and processing data collected from sensors 416.

[00110] Processing and control subsystem 1103 is described in more detail in FIG. 13.

[00111] Communications subsystem 1301 plays the role of receiving data and information from external networks, and transmitting the received data and information to the other components of processing and control subsystem 1103. In FIG. 13, communications subsystem 1301 is communicatively coupled to networks 1102. Communication subsystem 1301 receives information from, and transmits information to networks 1102. Communications subsystem 1301 communicates with network 1102 using at least one of the communications and networking protocols and techniques that network 1102 utilizes.

[00112] Database 1302 stores information and data for use by processing and control subsystem 1103. This includes, for example: data collected from one or more subsystems 400 via communications subsystem 1301 and network 1102, one or more algorithms and programs necessary to perform processing of received data, and other data as needed, such as intermediate and final results from carrying out processing operations.

[00113] In some embodiments, database 1302 further comprises a database server. The database server receives one or more commands from, for example, hydroponic processing subsystem 1303-1 to 1303 -N and communications subsystem 1301 and translates these commands into appropriate database language commands to retrieve and store data into database 1302. In some embodiments, database 1302 is implemented using one or more database languages known to those of skill in the art, including, for example, Structured Query Language (SQL). In a further embodiment, database 1302 stores data for a plurality of users. Then, there may be a need to keep the set of data related to each user separate from the data relating to the other users. In some embodiments, database 1302 is partitioned so that data related to each user is separate from the other users. In some embodiments, each user has an account with a login and a password or other appropriate security measures to ensure that they are only able to access their data, and unauthorized access of their data is prohibited. In further embodiments, when data is entered into database 1302, associated metadata is added so as to make it more easily searchable. In a further embodiment, the associated metadata comprises one or more tags. In yet another embodiment, database 1302 presents an interface to enable the entering of search queries. In some embodiments, the data stored within database 1302 is encrypted for security reasons. In further embodiments, other privacy-enhancing data security techniques are employed to protect database 1302.

[00114] Hydroponic processing subsystems 1303-1 to 1303-N perform processing, analysis and control within processing and control subsystem 1103 using one or more algorithms and programs residing on database 1302. These algorithms and programs are stored in, for example, database 1302 as explained above, or within hydroponic processing subsystems 1303-1 to 1303-N.

[00115] Examples of processing performed by hydroponic processing subsystems 1303-1 to 1303-N include:

Implementations of algorithms used in processing of the data received from sensors 416 via, for example, communications subsystem 1301 and network 1102,

Performing analytics based on crops grown within enclosure 100 to provide one or more users with feedback, and

Providing data to enable one or more users 105 to visualize results on, for example, enclosure monitoring application 1201-4 of user device 1101.

[00116] In some embodiments, hydroponic processing subsystems 1303-1 to 1303-N implement artificial intelligence (Al), machine learning (ML) and deep learning algorithms to facilitate optimization of growth parameters, energy consumption, water consumption, and improve overall growth of hydroponic crops. This data allows for users such as farmers to leam how to better utilize the enclosure to improve on current practices. In further embodiments, hydroponic processing subsystems 1303-1 to 1303-N implement big data processing techniques and statistical processing techniques.

[00117] Interconnection 1304 communicatively couples the various components of processing and control subsystem 1103 to each other, so that the various components of processing and control subsystem 1103 are able to transmit and receive data, commands and instructions from one another. In one embodiment, interconnection 1304 is implemented using, for example, network technologies known to those in the art. These include, for example, wireless networks, wired networks, Ethernet networks, local area networks, metropolitan area networks and optical networks. In one embodiment, interconnection 1304 comprises one or more subnetworks. In another embodiment, interconnection 1304 comprises other technologies to connect multiple components to each other including, for example, buses, coaxial cables, USB connections and so on.

[00118] Many of the subsystems described above are built using parts and materials which can be found in standard hardware inventories or libraries. For example, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) piping can be used for the pipes described above. Since these parts and materials are drawn from standard hardware inventories or libraries, this improves repairability over custom-built containers, which may not have parts which are available in standard hardware inventories or libraries.

[00119] FIGS. 14A and 14B show an example embodiment of a process for the creation of a hydroponic enclosure based on a rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure such as structure 102 of FIG. 1; or alternatively the process for the configuration of a rectangular container home structure or rectangular container commercial structure such as structure 102 into a hydroponic enclosure 100 as shown in FIG. 1. An explanation of the creation or configuration process is given below, with reference to FIGS. 1 - 14B.

[00120] Beginning with FIG. 14A: In embodiments where the rectangular container commercial structure is folded or collapsed, that is, either in a fully collapsed or folded state; or in a partially folded or collapsed state; then in step 1401 the folded rectangular container commercial structure is unfolded into an unfolded state. This was also explained previously with reference to FIG. 2. As explained before, this is useful when the enclosure is to be built at a remote location. Then the folded structure is more easily transported to the remote location, where it can be unfolded before configuration into an enclosure.

[00121] In step 1402, the installation of one or more stabilizing elements is performed. For example, as previously described with reference to FIG. 3B, a central beam 315 is installed in the centre of the ceiling 303. In some embodiments, step 1402 comprises installation of one or more structural bolts, also as previously described.

[00122] Steps 1404, 1406 and 1408 cover the preparation of the interior 301. In step 1404, the interior 301 is thoroughly inspected for damage, and any damage found is repaired.

[00123] In step 1406 the interior 301 is cleaned.

[00124] In step 1408 one or more cracks or openings which may be detrimental to hydroponic performance are sealed with one or more sealants, as explained previously.

[00125] In step 1410, a waterproof floor covering is installed over floor 305. The waterproof floor covering is installed to ensure a strong waterproof seal is created, as previously explained.

[00126] Steps 1412, 1414, 1416, 1418, 1420, 1422 and 1424 comprise: operations carried out prior to installation of one or more subsystems 400, hydroponic application-specific modifications made to the rectangular container home structure to enhance performance of the hydroponic enclosure, and installation of one or more subsystems 400 and ensure the performance of enclosure 100.

[00127] In step 1412, appropriate pre-installation operations are carried out within the structure 102 to ensure that subsystems such as power supply 422, HVAC subsystem 402 and water distribution subsystem 410 can be accommodated within the enclosure. For example, appropriate openings are created for ventilation component 406 of HVAC subsystem 402 and one or more components of water distribution subsystem 410.

[00128] In step 1414, hydroponic application-specific modifications are made to the structure 102. This comprises processes such as, removing and replacing windows with galvanized steel sheets; installing insulation between panels, or installing extra insulation between panels in embodiments where insulation was already installed in the structure 102; and painting panels to match at least one of the interior walls and the exterior.

[00129] In step 1416, a power supply such as power supply 422 is installed. [00130] In step 1418, a HVAC subsystem such as subsystem 402 is installed utilizing, for example, the results of the pre-installation operations of step 1412. The steps taken to install a HVAC subsystem are known to those of skill in the art.

[00131] Continuing on to FIG. 14B, in step 1420, one or more mounting elements are installed. Examples of installing of mounting elements which have been previously described include:

Installing mounting element 501 of FIGS. 5A and 5B to side 307; or

Installing mounting element 609 of FIG. 6A in the centre of the enclosure.

[00132] In step 1422, the pluralities of towers are secured to the mounting elements. Examples of securing pluralities of towers to mounting elements which have been previously described include: securing plurality of towers 5C-02 to mounting element 501 as shown in FIG. 5C and FIG.

8; or securing plurality of towers 601 and 603 to mounting element 609 as shown in FIG. 6A.

[00133] In step 1424, a lighting subsystem such as subsystem 412 is installed. Examples of processes included in step 1424 include: attaching the tower lighting units 901 , 903 and 905 to ceiling 303 using coupling elements 907 so that these lighting units are oriented horizontally as shown in FIG. 9, and installing lighting mount structures such as structure 10B-01 of FIG. 10B and 10C-01 of FIG. 10C so that pluralities of tower lighting units such as pluralities 1001 and 1011 are oriented vertically.

[00134] In step 1426, a water distribution subsystem such as water distribution subsystem 410 is installed. This comprises installing, for example, the components of sections of water distribution subsystem 410 such as the components of section 700 in FIG. 8.

[00135] In step 1428, the system 1100 as described in FIGS. 11 to 13 previously is installed and appropriately configured to monitor and operate the enclosure. Steps to install and appropriately configure such a system are known to those of skill in the art.

[00136] In one example embodiment, a hydroponic enclosure associated with one or more users is created based on a rectangular container home structure. The rectangular container home structure comprises a first side, a back wall, a front wall, a floor and a ceiling. One or more stabilizing elements are installed in the rectangular container home structure. The floor is covered by a waterproof floor covering, and one or more subsystems to facilitate operation of the hydroponic enclosure are installed. The one or more subsystems are communicatively coupled to each other via a first one or more interconnections. The one or more subsystems comprise a water distribution subsystem, further wherein at least some part of a first section of the water distribution subsystem is either mounted on or proximate to at least one of the first side, the back wall, the ceiling, and the front wall. The one or more subsystems comprise a power supply to supply power to the one or more subsystems other than the power supply.

[00137] In one or more of the above examples, the one of more subsystems comprise a growth subsystem. The growth subsystem comprises a plurality of towers, The plurality of towers is mounted to the first side; and the first section of the water distribution subsystem supplies water to and removes water from the plurality of towers.

[00138] In one or more of the above examples, the plurality of towers is mounted to the first side by a mounting element. The mounting element is coupled to the first side by a plurality of enclosure coupling members. The plurality of towers is secured to the mounting element by a plurality of securing members attached to the mounting element.

[00139] In one or more of the above examples, the first section of the water distribution subsystem comprises a lower water return distribution subsystem and an upper water return distribution subsystem. The lower water return distribution subsystem comprises a lower water return pipe coupled to a reservoir, and a pump coupled to the reservoir. The upper water return distribution subsystem comprises an upper water return pipe coupled to a plurality of water feed subsystems. Each of the plurality of water feed subsystems is associated with one of the plurality of towers, and the upper water return distribution subsystem is coupled to the lower water return distribution subsystem via a connecting pipe coupled to the pump and the upper water return pipe. The lower water return pipe receives water from the bottoms of the plurality of towers. The lower water return pipe drains the received water into the reservoir. The pump pumps water from the reservoir to the upper water return pipe via the connecting pipe. The upper water return pipe feeds the water from the connecting pipe to the plurality of water feed subsystems, and each of the plurality of water feed subsystems directs water from the upper water return pipe to the associated one of the plurality of towers. [00140] In one or more of the above examples, the one or more subsystems comprise a lighting subsystem. The lighting subsystem comprises a plurality of tower lighting units either oriented horizontally or vertically.

[00141] In one or more of the above examples, the rectangular container home structure is initially in a folded state, and the rectangular container home structure is unfolded from the folded state into an unfolded state.

[00142] In one or more of the above examples, the one or more stabilizing elements comprises a central beam coupled to the ceiling and attached to the front wall and back wall.

[00143] In one or more of the above examples, the rectangular container home structure is pre-designed or pre-configured for human occupation.

[00144] In one or more of the above examples, the one or more subsystems comprise a first communication subsystem communicatively coupled to a network. The one or more subsystems are communicatively coupled via the first communications subsystem and the network to a processing and control subsystem, and a user device associated with one or more users. The enclosure is monitored and operated using an enclosure monitoring application located on the user device.

[00145] In one or more of the above examples, a sealant is used to seal one or more cracks or openings after the rectangular container home structure is unfolded into the unfolded state.

[00146] In one or more of the above examples, the processing and control subsystem comprises a database, one or more hydroponic processing subsystems, and a second communications subsystem communicatively coupled to each other using a second one or more interconnections. The second communications subsystem is coupled to the network.

[00147] In one or more of the above examples, the second communications subsystem receives data from the one or more subsystems via the network. The second communications subsystem transmits the received data to the one or more hydroponic processing subsystems. The one or more hydroponic processing subsystems processes the data received from the second communications subsystem using at least one of an artificial intelligence algorithm, or a machine learning algorithm.

[00148] In one example embodiment, a method of configuring a rectangular container home structure into a hydroponic enclosure. The hydroponic enclosure is associated with one or more users. The rectangular container home structure comprises a first side, a back wall, a floor and a ceiling. The method comprises: installing one or more stabilizing elements in the rectangular container home structure, sealing one or more openings using a sealant, installing a waterproof floor covering to cover the floor, and installing one or more subsystems to facilitate the operation of the hydroponic enclosure. The one or more subsystems are communicatively coupled to each other via a first one or more interconnections. The one or more subsystems comprise a water distribution subsystem. A first part of the water distribution subsystem is either mounted on or proximate to at least one of the first side, the back wall, the floor, and the ceiling. The one or more subsystems comprises a power supply to supply power to the one or more subsystems other than the power supply.

[00149] In one or more of the above examples, the one of more subsystems comprise a growth subsystem. The growth subsystem comprises a plurality of towers. The first section of the water distribution subsystem supplies water to and removes water from the plurality of towers, and the method further comprising mounting the plurality of towers to the first side.

[00150] In one or more of the above examples, the mounting of the plurality of towers to the first side is performed using a mounting element. The mounting element is coupled to the first side by a plurality of enclosure coupling members, and the plurality of towers is secured to the mounting element by a plurality of securing members attached to the mounting element.

[00151] In one or more of the above examples, the first section of the water distribution subsystem comprises a lower water return distribution subsystem and an upper water return distribution subsystem. The lower water return distribution subsystem comprises a lower water return pipe coupled to a reservoir, and a pump coupled to the reservoir. The upper water return distribution subsystem comprises an upper water return pipe coupled to a plurality of water feed subsystems. Each of the plurality of water feed subsystems is associated with one of the plurality of towers, and the upper water return distribution subsystem is coupled to the lower water return distribution subsystem via a connecting pipe coupled to the pump and the upper water return pipe. The lower water return pipe receives water from the bottoms of the plurality of towers. The lower water return pipe drains the received water into the reservoir. The pump pumps water from the reservoir to the upper water return pipe via the connecting pipe. The upper water return pipe feeds the water from the connecting pipe to the plurality of water feed subsystems, and each of the plurality of water feed subsystem either feeds or does not feed the water from the upper water return pipe to the associated one of the plurality of towers. [00152] In one or more of the above examples, the one or more subsystems comprise a lighting subsystem. The lighting subsystem comprises a plurality of tower lighting units either oriented horizontally or vertically.

[00153] In one or more of the above examples, the rectangular container home structure is initially in a folded state. The method comprises unfolding the rectangular container home structure from the folded state into an unfolded state.

[00154] In one or more of the above examples, the installing of the one or more stabilizing elements comprises coupling a central beam to the ceiling, and attaching the central beam to the front wall and back wall. The installing of the central beam is performed after the unfolding.

[00155] In one or more of the above examples, the one or more subsystems comprise a first communications subsystem communicatively coupled to a network. The one or more subsystems are communicatively coupled via the first communications subsystem and the network to to a processing and control subsystem, and a user device associated with one or more users. The enclosure is monitored and operated using an enclosure monitoring application located on the user device.

[00156] In one or more of the above examples, the method comprises sealing one or more cracks or openings using a sealant after the unfolding of the rectangular container home structure into the unfolded state.

[00157] In one or more of the above examples, the processing and control subsystem comprises a database, one or more hydroponic processing subsystems, and a second communications subsystem communicatively coupled to each other using a second one or more interconnections. The second communications subsystem is coupled to the one or more networks.

[00158] In one or more of the above examples, the second communications subsystem receives data from the one or more subsystems via the one or more networks. The second communications subsystem transmits the received data to the one or more hydroponic processing subsystems. The hydroponic processing subsystems processes the data received from the second communications subsystem using at least one of an artificial intelligence algorithm, or a machine learning algorithm.

[00159] In one example embodiment, a mounting element to mount one or more plurality of towers, wherein the one or more plurality of towers comprises a first plurality of towers, the mounting element comprises a first side; a plurality of supporting elements; and a first plurality of securing elements coupled to the plurality of supporting elements to secure the first plurality of towers to the mounting element on the first side.

[00160] In one or more of the above examples, the one or more plurality of towers comprises a second plurality of towers. The mounting element comprises a second side, and a second plurality of securing elements coupled to the plurality of supporting elements to secure the second plurality of towers to the mounting element on the second side.

[00161] In one or more of the above examples, the mounting element further comprises a plurality of enclosure coupling members to couple the mounting element to the side of a hydroponic enclosure.

[00162] In one or more of the above examples, the mounting element further comprises a plurality of enclosure coupling members to couple the mounting element to at least one of a floor or a ceiling of a hydroponic enclosure.

[00163] In one or more of the above examples, the mounting element is coupled to a stand.

[00164] In one or more of the above examples, the stand comprises mobility-enabling elements.

[00165] In one example embodiment, a method to mount one or more plurality of towers on a mounting element, wherein the one or more plurality of towers comprises a first plurality of towers, the mounting element comprises a first side, a plurality of supporting elements, and a first plurality of securing elements coupled to the plurality of supporting elements on the first side, the method comprises securing the first plurality of towers to the mounting element on the first side using the first plurality of securing elements.

[00166] In one or more of the above examples, the one or more plurality of towers comprises a second plurality of towers. The mounting element comprises a second side, and a second plurality of securing elements coupled to the plurality of supporting elements on the second side. The method comprises securing the second plurality of towers to the mounting element on the second side using the second plurality of securing elements.

[00167] In one or more of the above examples, the method further comprises coupling the mounting element to the side of a hydroponic enclosure using a plurality of enclosure coupling members. [00168] In one or more of the above examples, the method further comprises coupling the mounting element to at least one of a floor or a ceiling of a hydroponic enclosure using a plurality of enclosure coupling members.

[00169] In one or more of the above examples, the mounting element is coupled to a stand.

[00170] In one or more of the above examples, the stand comprises mobility-enabling elements.

[00171] While particular implementations and applications of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the precise construction and compositions disclosed herein and that various modifications, changes, and variations can be apparent from the foregoing descriptions without departing from the spirit and scope of an invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A hydroponic enclosure associated with one or more users, wherein the hydroponic enclosure is created based on a rectangular container home structure, further wherein the rectangular container home structure comprises a first side, a back wall, a front wall, a floor and a ceiling, further wherein one or more stabilizing elements are installed in the rectangular container home structure, the floor is covered by a waterproof floor covering, and one or more subsystems to facilitate operation of the hydroponic enclosure are installed, further wherein the one or more subsystems are communicatively coupled to each other via a first one or more interconnections, and the one or more subsystems comprise a water distribution subsystem, further wherein at least some part of a first section of the water distribution subsystem is either mounted on or proximate to at least one of the first side, the back wall, the ceiling, and the front wall, and a power supply to supply power to the one or more subsystems other than the power supply.

2. The enclosure of claim 1 , wherein the one of more subsystems comprise a growth subsystem; the growth subsystem comprises a plurality of towers; the plurality of towers is mounted to the first side; and the first section of the water distribution subsystem supplies water to and removes water from the plurality of towers.

3. The enclosure of claim 2, wherein the plurality of towers is mounted to the first side by a mounting element, further wherein the mounting element is coupled to the first side by a plurality of enclosure coupling members, and the plurality of towers is secured to the mounting element by a plurality of securing members attached to the mounting element.

4. The enclosure of claim 3, wherein the first section of the water distribution subsystem comprises a lower water return distribution subsystem and an upper water return distribution subsystem, further wherein the lower water return distribution subsystem comprises a lower water return pipe coupled to a reservoir, and a pump coupled to the reservoir, the upper water return distribution subsystem comprises an upper water return pipe coupled to a plurality of water feed subsystems, wherein each of the plurality of water feed subsystems is associated with one of the plurality of towers, and the upper water return distribution subsystem is coupled to the lower water return distribution subsystem via a connecting pipe coupled to the pump and the upper water return pipe, the lower water return pipe receives water from the bottoms of the plurality of towers, the lower water return pipe drains the received water into the reservoir, the pump pumps water from the reservoir to the upper water return pipe via the connecting pipe, the upper water return pipe feeds the water from the connecting pipe to the plurality of water feed subsystems, and each of the plurality of water feed subsystems directs water from the upper water return pipe to the associated one of the plurality of towers.

5. The enclosure of claim 1, wherein the one or more subsystems comprise a lighting subsystem; and the lighting subsystem comprises a plurality of tower lighting units either oriented horizontally or vertically.

6. The enclosure of claim 1 , wherein the rectangular container home structure is initially in a folded state, and the rectangular container home structure is unfolded from the folded state into an unfolded state.

7. The enclosure of claim 6, wherein the one or more stabilizing elements comprises a central beam coupled to the ceiling and attached to the front wall and back wall.

8. The enclosure of claim 7, wherein the rectangular container home structure is pre-designed or pre- configured for human occupation.

9. The enclosure of claim 1 , wherein the one or more subsystems comprise a first communication subsystem communicatively coupled to a network; the one or more subsystems are communicatively coupled via the first communications subsystem and the network to a processing and control subsystem, and a user device associated with one or more users; and the enclosure is monitored and operated using an enclosure monitoring application located on the user device.

10. The enclosure of claim 6, wherein a sealant is used to seal one or more cracks or openings after the rectangular container home structure is unfolded into the unfolded state.

11. The enclosure of claim 9, wherein the processing and control subsystem comprises: a database, one or more hydroponic processing subsystems, and a second communications subsystem communicatively coupled to each other using a second one or more interconnections; and the second communications subsystem is coupled to the network.

12. The enclosure of claim 11, wherein the second communications subsystem receives data from the one or more subsystems via the network; the second communications subsystem transmits the received data to the one or more hydroponic processing subsystems; and the one or more hydroponic processing subsystems processes the data received from the second communications subsystem using at least one of: an artificial intelligence algorithm, or a machine learning algorithm.

13. A method of configuring a rectangular container home structure into a hydroponic enclosure, wherein the hydroponic enclosure is associated with one or more users, the rectangular container home structure comprises a first side, a back wall, a floor and a ceiling, and the method comprises: installing one or more stabilizing elements in the rectangular container home structure, sealing one or more openings using a sealant, installing a waterproof floor covering to cover the floor, and installing one or more subsystems to facilitate the operation of the hydroponic enclosure, wherein the one or more subsystems are communicatively coupled to each other via a first one or more interconnections, and the one or more subsystems comprise a water distribution subsystem, further wherein a first part of the water distribution subsystem is either mounted on or proximate to at least one of the first side, the back wall, the floor, and the ceiling, and a power supply to supply power to the one or more subsystems other than the power supply. The method of claim 13, wherein the one of more subsystems comprise a growth subsystem; the growth subsystem comprises a plurality of towers, the first section of the water distribution subsystem supplies water to and removes water from the plurality of towers, and the method further comprising mounting the plurality of towers to the first side. The method of claim 14, wherein the mounting of the plurality of towers to the first side is performed using a mounting element, further wherein the mounting element is coupled to the first side by a plurality of enclosure coupling members, and the plurality of towers is secured to the mounting element by a plurality of securing members attached to the mounting element.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the first section of the water distribution subsystem comprises a lower water return distribution subsystem and an upper water return distribution subsystem, further wherein the lower water return distribution subsystem comprises a lower water return pipe coupled to a reservoir, and a pump coupled to the reservoir, the upper water return distribution subsystem comprises an upper water return pipe coupled to a plurality of water feed subsystems, wherein each of the plurality of water feed subsystems is associated with one of the plurality of towers, and the upper water return distribution subsystem is coupled to the lower water return distribution subsystem via a connecting pipe coupled to the pump and the upper water return pipe, the lower water return pipe receives water from the bottoms of the plurality of towers, the lower water return pipe drains the received water into the reservoir, the pump pumps water from the reservoir to the upper water return pipe via the connecting pipe, the upper water return pipe feeds the water from the connecting pipe to the plurality of water feed subsystems, and each of the plurality of water feed subsystem either feeds or does not feed the water from the upper water return pipe to the associated one of the plurality of towers.

17. The method of claim 13, wherein the one or more subsystems comprise a lighting subsystem; and the lighting subsystem comprises a plurality of tower lighting units either oriented horizontally or vertically.

18. The method of claim 13, wherein the rectangular container home structure is initially in a folded state; and the method comprises unfolding the rectangular container home structure from the folded state into an unfolded state.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the installing of the one or more stabilizing elements comprises coupling a central beam to the ceiling, and attaching the central beam to the front wall and back wall; and the installing of the central beam is performed after the unfolding.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the rectangular container home structure is pre-designed or pre- configured for human occupation.

21. The method of claim 13, wherein the one or more subsystems comprise a first communications subsystem communicatively coupled to a network; the one or more subsystems are communicatively coupled via the first communications subsystem and the network to a processing and control subsystem, and a user device associated with one or more users; and the enclosure is monitored and operated using an enclosure monitoring application located on the user device.

22. The method of claim 18, wherein the method comprises sealing one or more cracks or openings using a sealant after the unfolding of the rectangular container home structure into the unfolded state.

23. The method of claim 21, wherein the processing and control subsystem comprises: a database, one or more hydroponic processing subsystems, and a second communications subsystem communicatively coupled to each other using a second one or more interconnections; and the second communications subsystem is coupled to the network.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the second communications subsystem receives data from the one or more subsystems via the network; the second communications subsystem transmits the received data to the one or more hydroponic processing subsystems; and the hydroponic processing subsystems processes the data received from the second communications subsystem using at least one of: an artificial intelligence algorithm, or a machine learning algorithm.

25. A mounting element to mount one or more plurality of towers, wherein the one or more plurality of towers comprises a first plurality of towers, the mounting element comprises a first side; a plurality of supporting elements; and a first plurality of securing elements coupled to the plurality of supporting elements to secure the first plurality of towers to the mounting element on the first side.

26. The mounting element of claim 25, further wherein the one or more plurality of towers comprises a second plurality of towers, the mounting element comprises a second side; and a second plurality of securing elements coupled to the plurality of supporting elements to secure the second plurality of towers to the mounting element on the second side.

27. The mounting element of claim 25, wherein the mounting element further comprises a plurality of enclosure coupling members to couple the mounting element to the side of a hydroponic enclosure.

28. The mounting element of claim 26, wherein the mounting element further comprises a plurality of enclosure coupling members to couple the mounting element to at least one of a floor or a ceiling of a hydroponic enclosure.

29. The mounting element of claim 25 or claim 26, wherein the mounting element is coupled to a stand.

30. The mounting element of claim 29, wherein the stand comprises mobility-enabling elements.

31. A method to mount one or more plurality of towers on a mounting element, wherein the one or more plurality of towers comprises a first plurality of towers, the mounting element comprises a first side, a plurality of supporting elements, and a first plurality of securing elements coupled to the plurality of supporting elements on the first side, the method comprises securing the first plurality of towers to the mounting element on the first side using the first plurality of securing elements.

32. The method of claim 31, further wherein the one or more plurality of towers comprises a second plurality of towers, the mounting element comprises a second side, and a second plurality of securing elements coupled to the plurality of supporting elements on the second side, the method comprises securing the second plurality of towers to the mounting element on the second side using the second plurality of securing elements. 33. The method of claim 31, wherein the method further comprises coupling the mounting element to the side of a hydroponic enclosure using a plurality of enclosure coupling members.

34. The method of claim 32, wherein the method further comprises coupling the mounting element to at least one of a floor or a ceiling of a hydroponic enclosure using a plurality of enclosure coupling members. 35. The method of claim 31 or claim 32, wherein the mounting element is coupled to a stand.

36. The mounting element of claim 35, wherein the stand comprises mobility-enabling elements.