U.S. patent application number 15/278181 was filed with the patent office on 2018-01-18 for vertical growth tower and module for an environmentally controlled vertical farming system.
The applicant listed for this patent is MJNN LLC. Invention is credited to Matthew BARNARD, Philip E. BEATTY, Benjamin J. CLARK, Christopher K. CONWAY, Daniel COOK, Jaremy CREECHLEY, Michael DUFFY, Russell FIELD, William R. GEORGE, Rob JENSEN, Ernest LEARN, Nate MAZONSON, Jack OSLAN, Nathaniel R. STOREY, Russell VARONE, John L. WHITCHER.
Application Number | 20180014471 15/278181 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 60941644 |
Filed Date | 2018-01-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180014471 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
JENSEN; Rob ; et
al. |
January 18, 2018 |
VERTICAL GROWTH TOWER AND MODULE FOR AN ENVIRONMENTALLY CONTROLLED
VERTICAL FARMING SYSTEM
Abstract
A multi-stage, plant growing system is configured for high
density growth and crop yields and includes among other things,
towers or vertical growth columns, an enclosed controlled
environmental growth chamber, interchangeable growth modules, and
control systems capable of machine learning wherein the crops are
optimally spaced and continually staged in their planting cycles
utilizing special growth modules to provide an accelerated and
continuous annual production yield. A vertical growth tower for
vertical farming comprising a plurality of growth modules, each
growth module comprising an enclosure configured to securely hold
at least one plant; a drain aperture in the enclosure; and at least
one lateral growth opening in the enclosure configured to permit
and to encourage lateral growth of the at least one plant away from
the enclosure; wherein one or more of the growth modules is
configured to stackably support one or more of the other growth
modules above and/or below itself within the vertical growth
tower.
Inventors: |
JENSEN; Rob; (Rocklin,
CA) ; OSLAN; Jack; (Henderson, NV) ; MAZONSON;
Nate; (Menlo Park, CA) ; STOREY; Nathaniel R.;
(Laramie, WY) ; COOK; Daniel; (Woodside, CA)
; BEATTY; Philip E.; (Tualatin, OR) ; WHITCHER;
John L.; (Tualatin, OR) ; CONWAY; Christopher K.;
(Loomis, CA) ; LEARN; Ernest; (Loomis, CA)
; DUFFY; Michael; (Duryea, PA) ; VARONE;
Russell; (Fremont, CA) ; FIELD; Russell;
(Portola Valley, CA) ; GEORGE; William R.; (Santa
Cruz, CA) ; BARNARD; Matthew; (Woodside, CA) ;
CLARK; Benjamin J.; (Redwood City, CA) ; CREECHLEY;
Jaremy; (Laramie, WY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
MJNN LLC |
South San Francisco |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
60941644 |
Appl. No.: |
15/278181 |
Filed: |
September 28, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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62369520 |
Aug 1, 2016 |
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62366510 |
Jul 25, 2016 |
|
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62362380 |
Jul 14, 2016 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A01G 31/04 20130101;
A01G 9/247 20130101; A01G 7/045 20130101; H04N 7/183 20130101; A01G
2/20 20180201; Y02P 60/21 20151101; A01G 9/246 20130101; A01G 31/02
20130101; H05B 47/105 20200101; A01G 31/06 20130101; A01G 31/045
20130101; Y02P 60/216 20151101; H05B 45/10 20200101; A01G 7/02
20130101; A01G 9/023 20130101; A01G 9/029 20180201; A01G 9/26
20130101; A01G 27/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A01G 9/02 20060101
A01G009/02; A01G 9/10 20060101 A01G009/10; A01G 9/26 20060101
A01G009/26; A01G 27/00 20060101 A01G027/00 |
Claims
1. A growth tower for vertical farming, the growth tower comprising
one or more growth modules, each growth module comprising: an
enclosure configured to securely hold at least one plant; a drain
aperture in the enclosure; a capture mechanism configured for
detachable attachment of the one or more growth modules to a
vertical column of the growth tower; and at least one lateral
growth opening in the enclosure configured to permit growth of the
at least one plant therethrough, and to encourage lateral growth of
the at least one plant away from the enclosure; the capture
mechanism permitting the attachment of the one or more growth
modules to the vertical column of the growth tower at variable
heights, the one or more growth modules being further configurable
to stackably support one or more of the other growth modules with
or without spaces above or below itself within the growth tower,
thereby allowing formation of a plurality of vertically stacked
growth modules and enabling vertical farming of a plurality of
plants in growth modules stacked along a vertical axis, the drain
aperture allowing vertical flow of fluids comprising water and one
or more nutrients between adjacent growth modules within the growth
tower in a flow direction generally downward along the vertical
axis, and said lateral growth opening having an angular orientation
at an angle comprising between about 0.0 degrees to about 45.0
degrees vertical of parallel to horizontal, and said lateral growth
opening is thereby configured to allow for improved airflow from
any one of multiple directions to disrupt a boundary layer of an
under-canopy of the at least one plant growing away from the one or
more growth modules.
2. The growth tower of claim 1, the one or more growth modules
being configured to provide a containment shape comprising: a
completely circular shape; a partially circular shape; an
elliptical shape; an irregular geometric shape; a non-symmetric,
irregular geometric shape; a symmetric, multi-sided geometric
shape; a triangular shape; a rectangular shape; a square shape; a
trapezoidal shape; a pentagonal shape; a hexagonal shape; a
heptagonal shape; an octagonal shape; a geometric shape comprising
non-flat sides; or any combination thereof.
3. The growth tower of claim 2, the one or more growth modules,
further comprising: at least a partial lower surface connected to
the containment shape; the drain aperture being positioned in or
near the at least partial lower surface, and the at least partial
lower surface comprising a non-perpendicular surface relative to
the containment shape, configured to facilitate the movement of
fluids toward the drain aperture.
4. The growth tower of claim 2, the one or more growth modules
further comprising at least a partial upper surface connected to
the containment shape.
5. The growth tower of claim 1, wherein the one or more growth
modules is an unsupported, self-standing growth tower.
6. The growth tower of claim 5, wherein each of the one or more
growth modules is orientable such that the at least one growth
opening of a first growth module faces a different direction from a
corresponding at least one growth opening of the one or more other
growth modules within the growth tower.
7. The growth tower of claim 5, wherein a top end of the
unsupported, self-standing growth tower is configured for
attachment to a conveyance system for conveying one or more growth
modules toward or away from the growth tower.
8. The growth tower of claim 7, wherein a bottom end of the
unsupported, self-standing vertical growth tower is configured for
attachment to a conveyance system for conveying one or more growth
modules toward or away from the vertical growth tower.
9. The growth tower of claim 7, wherein the top end of the vertical
growth tower is configured for attachment to a support structure
capable of supporting a plurality other vertical growth towers.
10. The growth tower of claim 9, wherein said vertical growth tower
is configured to rotate about the vertical axis when attached to
the support structure for similarly exposing the at least one
growth opening of the attached one or more vertically stacked
growth modules to a light source or an airflow.
11. The growth tower of claim 7, wherein said conveyance system
provides a controlled, timed movement of each vertical growth
tower, in unison with the other vertical growth towers attached to
the conveyance system, to move plants contained within the one or
more vertically stacked growth modules from a starting point
location corresponding with an immature growth stage to a finishing
point corresponding with a harvestable plant along a circuit within
an environmentally-controlled growing chamber.
12. A vertical farming system comprising: at least one vertical
column comprising: a central vertical axis; a periphery comprising:
a square shape; a rectangular shape; a generally circular shape; a
partially circular shape; triangular shape; a trapezoidal shape; a
pentagonal shape; a hexagonal shape; a heptagonal shape; an
octagonal shape; any geometric shape comprising non-flat sides; or
any combination thereof; and one or more growth modules configured
for detachable attachment to the at least one vertical column, the
one or more growth modules each comprising: an enclosure configured
to securely hold at least one plant; or a sleeve configured to hold
a plurality of sub-growth modules comprising an enclosure
configured to securely hold at least one plant; or a housing
configured to hold a plurality of sub-growth modules, each
sub-growth module comprising the enclosure configured to securely
hold at least one plant; a drain aperture; and at least one lateral
growth opening in the enclosure or at least one sub-growth module
configured to permit growth of the at least one plant therethrough,
and to encourage lateral growth of the at least one plant away from
the growth module; the one or more growth modules being configured
to stackably support one or more other growth modules stacked above
or below itself, the drain aperture being configured to facilitate
a generally downward vertical flow of fluids from the growth module
to another growth module stacked below itself, said lateral growth
opening having an angular orientation at an angle comprising
between about 0.0 degrees to about 45.0 degrees vertical of
parallel to horizontal, and said lateral growth opening being
thereby configured to allow for improved airflow from any one of
multiple directions to disrupt a boundary layer of an under-canopy
of the at least one plant growing away from the one or more growth
modules.
13. The vertical farming system of claim 12, further comprising a
conveyance system and a guided vertical lift, the guided vertical
lift being configured for: conveying the one or more growth modules
up and down on the at least one vertical column; and the at least
one vertical column being further configured for attachment to the
conveyance system at or about at least one of; a bottom end or a
top end of the at least one vertical column; and a bottom end and a
top end of the at least one vertical column.
14. The farming system of claim 13, further comprising an
environmentally controlled growing chamber, wherein said conveyance
system is configured to provides a controlled, timed movement of
the at least one vertical column, in unison with other vertical
columns attached to the conveyance system, to move plants contained
within the one or more growth modules having enclosures about a
circuit within the environmentally controlled growing chamber of
the farming system from a starting point location corresponding
with an immature growth stage to a finishing point corresponding
with a harvestable plant along the circuit.
15. The farming system of claim 12, wherein the at least one
vertical column further comprises at least one attachment mechanism
configured for detachable attachment to the one or more growth
modules, wherein the at least one attachment mechanism comprises: a
"T"-rail; a "V"-rail; a separable ring; a protruding notch; an
indented notch; a slot; a groove; a through-hole and retaining pin;
a magnet; or any combination thereof; and wherein said at least one
attachment mechanism is positioned on a longitudinal surface of
said vertical column.
16. The farming system of claim 12, wherein the at least one growth
module is attached in a radial pattern about the periphery of the
at least one vertical column.
17. The farming system of claim 12, wherein the at least one
vertical column comprises at least one of: a forced airflow
conduit; and a gravity-feed water and nutritional conduit; the
forced airflow conduit and the gravity-feed water and nutritional
conduit being positioned either within the interior of the at least
one vertical column or on the exterior of the at least one vertical
column, with ports accessible to and from at least one attached
growth module.
18. The farming system of claim 12, wherein the at least one
vertical column has a top end configured for attachment to a
support structure capable of supporting a plurality other vertical
columns, and the vertical column being further configured to rotate
about the central vertical axis when attached to the support
structure for uniformly exposing the at least one lateral growth
opening of the attached one or more growth modules to a light
source or an airflow during each rotation.
19. A vertical farming system comprising: a) a vertical column
comprising: a central vertical axis; and a periphery comprising: a
square shape; a rectangular shape; a generally circular shape; a
partially circular shape; triangular shape; a trapezoidal shape; a
pentagonal shape; a hexagonal shape; a heptagonal shape; an
octagonal shape; any geometric shape comprising non-flat sides; or
any combination thereof; b) one or more growth modules, and c) a
guided vertical lift mechanism capable of supporting, raising, and
lowering the one or more growth modules; the vertical column having
a sleeved configuration that captures the one or more growth
modules; and the one or more growth modules comprising: an
enclosure configured to securely hold at least one plant; or a
sleeve configured to hold a plurality of sub-growth modules
comprising an enclosure configured to securely hold at least one
plant; or a housing configured to hold a plurality of sub-growth
modules, each sub-growth module comprising the enclosure configured
to securely hold at least one plant; a drain aperture; and at least
one lateral growth opening in the enclosure or at least one
sub-growth module configured to permit growth of the at least one
plant therethrough, and to encourage lateral growth of the at least
one plant away from the one or more growth modules; the one or more
growth modules configured to stackably supportone or more other
growth modules stacked above or below itself, the drain aperture
configured to facilitate a generally downward vertical flow of
fluids from one or more growth modules to another growth module
stacked below itself, an angular orientation of said at least one
lateral growth opening being an angle comprising between about 0.0
degrees to about 45.0 degrees vertical of parallel to horizontal,
and said lateral growth opening being configured to allow for an
improved airflow to disrupt a boundary layer of an under-canopy of
the at least one plant growing away from the one or more growth
modules.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE
[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 62/362,380, filed Jul. 14, 2016, U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 62/366,510, filed Jul. 25, 2016
and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/369,520, filed Aug.
1, 2016, which are incorporated herein by reference in their
entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates generally to a vertical hydroponic
and aeroponic plant production apparatus and system and, more
particularly, the invention relates to a growth module apparatus
configured for use in a vertical hydroponic and aeroponic plant
production system comprising a controlled environment allowing for
vertical hydroponic and aeroponic crop production in a fraction of
the space necessary for traditional plant production
techniques.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] During the twentieth century, agriculture slowly began to
evolve from a conservative industry to a fast-moving high-tech
industry in order to keep up with world food shortages, climate
change and societal changes moving away from manually-implemented
agriculture techniques increasingly toward computer implemented
technologies. In the past, and in many cases still today, farmers
only had one growing season to produce the crops that would
determine their revenue and food production for the entire year.
However, this is changing. With indoor growing as an option and
with better access to data processing technologies, among other
advanced techniques, the science of agriculture has become more
agile. It is adapting and learning as new data is collected and
insights are generated.
[0004] Advancements in technology are making it feasible to control
the effects of nature with the advent of "controlled indoor
agriculture". Improved efficiencies in space utilization, lighting,
and a better understanding of hydroponics, aeroponics, crop cycles,
and advancements in environmental control systems have allowed
humans to better recreate environments conducive for agriculture
crop growth with the goals of greater yields per square foot,
better nutrition and lower cost.
[0005] The inventors combine advances in agriculture with the
increasing technological advances of industry acquired since the
industrial revolution. The inventors also incorporate the more
recent concept of assembly line automation, and herein have
conceived a vertical farming structure within a controlled
environment and having columns comprising automated growth modules.
The vertical structure is capable of being moved about an automated
conveyance system in an open or closed-loop fashion, exposed to
precision-controlled lighting, airflow and humidity, with ideal
nutritional support.
[0006] Among those technology advancements is the application of
new control systems capable of machine learning, or artificial
intelligence, through the assimilation of thousands or even
millions of data points acquired by strategically placed sensors
during the course of a growing cycle or multiple growing cycles,
and further capable of automatically adjusting year-round crop
growth conditions within the controlled environment such as
lighting, fertilizers (nutrients), moisture, gas levels,
temperature, air flow, and ultimately, packaging to produce higher
yields at a lower cost per square foot due to plants' vertical
growth and increased space efficiency, with reduced overall losses
per planted crop, better nutritional value, visual appeal and
faster growth cycles.
[0007] Additionally, a multi-stage, plant growing system has been
configured for high density growth and crop yields and includes
among other things, towers and/or vertical columns comprising a
plurality of interchangeable growth modules, an enclosed controlled
environmental growth chamber, sensors or sensor arrays and control
systems capable of machine learning wherein the crops are optimally
spaced and continually staged in their planting cycles utilizing
the interchangeable growth modules to provide an accelerated and
continuous annual production yield. The growth modules are capable
of being moveably and detachably affixed to vertical columns, or
stand-alone towers, within the enclosed controlled environmental
growth chamber and support automated staging for planting and
harvesting activities within a growth cycle. The growth modules are
adaptable to monitoring by sensors, sensor arrays and control
systems that are capable of automated adjustments to control
mechanical operations and growing conditions within the growth
chamber and to make continuous improvements to crop yields, visual
appeal and nutrient content of the crops grown within the growth
modules.
[0008] Provided herein is a vertical growth tower for vertical
farming comprising a plurality of growth modules, each growth
module comprising: an enclosure configured to securely hold at
least one plant; a drain aperture in the enclosure; and at least
one lateral growth opening in the enclosure configured to permit
growth of the at least one plant therethrough, and to encourage
lateral growth of the at least one plant away from the enclosure;
wherein one or more of the growth modules is configured to
stackably support one or more of the other growth modules above
and/or below itself within the vertical growth tower, thereby
allowing formation of a plurality of vertically stacked growth
modules and enabling vertical farming of a plurality of plants in
growth modules stacked along a vertical axis; wherein the drain
aperture allows vertical flow of fluids comprising water and one or
more nutrients between adjacent growth modules within the vertical
growth tower in a flow direction generally downward along the
vertical axis, and wherein said lateral growth opening is
configured to allow for an airflow to disrupt a boundary layer of
an under-canopy of the at least one plant growing away from the
growth module.
[0009] In some embodiments, a growth module is configured to
provide a containment shape comprising: a completely circular
shape; a partially circular shape; an elliptical shape; an
irregular geometric shape; a non-symmetric, irregular geometric
shape; a symmetric, multi-sided geometric shape; a triangular
shape; a rectangular shape; a square shape; a trapezoidal shape; a
pentagonal shape; a hexagonal shape; a heptagonal shape; an
octagonal shape; a geometric shape comprising non-flat sides; or
any combination thereof.
[0010] In some embodiments, the vertical growth tower further
comprises: at least a partial lower surface connected to the
containment shape; wherein the drain aperture is positioned in or
near the at least partial lower surface, and wherein the at least
partial lower surface optionally comprises a non-perpendicular
surface relative to the containment shape, configured to facilitate
the movement of fluids toward the drain aperture.
[0011] In some embodiments, the vertical growth tower further
comprises at least a partial upper surface connected to the
containment shape.
[0012] In some embodiments, a plurality of growth modules is an
unsupported, self-standing vertical growth tower.
[0013] In some embodiments, each growth module is orientable such
that the at least one growth opening of a first growth module faces
a different direction from a corresponding at least one growth
opening of the one or more other growth modules within the vertical
growth tower.
[0014] In some embodiments, a top end of the unsupported,
self-standing vertical growth tower is configured for attachment to
a conveyance system for conveying growth modules toward or away
from the vertical growth tower.
[0015] In some embodiments, the unsupported, self-standing tower is
between: approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 60.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 50.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 40.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 30.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 25.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 20.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 19.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 18.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 17.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 16.0 feet tall; or
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 15.0 feet tall.
[0016] In some embodiments of the vertical column, the conveyance
system provides a controlled, timed movement of each unsupported,
self-standing tower, in unison with the other unsupported,
self-standing towers attached to the conveyance system, to move a
plant contained within the plurality of enclosures from a starting
point location corresponding with an immature growth stage to a
finishing point corresponding with a harvestable plant along a
circuit within an environmentally-controlled growing chamber.
[0017] In some embodiments, a bottom end of the unsupported,
self-standing vertical growth tower is configured for attachment to
a conveyance system for conveying growth modules toward or away
from the vertical growth tower.
[0018] In some embodiments, the top end of the vertical growth
tower is configured for attachment to a support structure capable
of supporting a plurality other vertical growth towers.
[0019] In some embodiments, said vertical growth tower is
configured to rotate about the vertical axis when attached to the
support structure for similarly exposing the at least one growth
opening of the attached plurality of vertically stacked growth
modules to a light source and/or an airflow.
[0020] In some embodiments, said conveyance system provides a
controlled, timed movement of each vertical growth tower, in unison
with the other vertical growth towers attached to the conveyance
system, to move plants contained within the plurality of vertically
stacked growth modules from a starting point location corresponding
with an immature growth stage to a finishing point corresponding
with a harvestable plant along a circuit within an
environmentally-controlled growing chamber.
[0021] In some embodiments, each enclosure further comprises: an
environmental sensor; an environment sensor array; a growth medium;
a wicking medium; a root cluster of a germinated plant; or any
combination thereof; wherein the environmental sensor or
environmental sensor array is configured to collect environmental
data within and around a growth module and transmit said data to a
master control system capable of compiling the environmental data
and adjusting environmental conditions within an
environmentally-controlled growing chamber containing said growth
module.
[0022] In some embodiments of the tower, at least one of the growth
modules has an adjustable height to accommodate growth of the at
least one plant.
[0023] Provided herein is a vertical column for a vertical farming
system configured for detachable attachment to at least one growth
module, the vertical column comprising: a central vertical axis;
and a periphery comprising: a square shape; a rectangular shape; a
generally circular shape; a partially circular shape; triangular
shape; a trapezoidal shape; a pentagonal shape; a hexagonal shape;
a heptagonal shape; an octagonal shape; any geometric shape
comprising non-flat sides; or any combination thereof; wherein the
growth module comprises: an enclosure configured to securely hold
at least one plant; or a sleeve configured to hold a plurality of
sub-growth modules comprising an enclosure configured to securely
hold at least one plant; or a housing configured to hold a
plurality of sub-growth modules, each sub-growth module comprising
the enclosure configured to securely hold at least one plant; a
drain aperture; and at least one lateral growth opening in the
enclosure and/or at least one sub-growth module configured to
permit growth of the at least one plant therethrough, and to
encourage lateral growth of the at least one plant away from the
growth module; wherein the growth module is configured to stackably
support a plurality of other growth modules stacked above and/or
below itself, wherein the drain aperture is configured to
facilitate a generally downward vertical flow of fluids from the
growth module to another growth module stacked below itself, and
wherein said lateral growth opening is configured to allow for an
airflow to disrupt a boundary layer of an under-canopy of the at
least one plant growing away from the growth module.
[0024] In some embodiments, the vertical column comprises an at
least partially hollow interior.
[0025] In some embodiments, the vertical column is between:
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 60.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 50.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 40.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 30.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 25.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 20.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 19.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 18.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 17.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 16.0 feet tall; or
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 15.0 feet tall.
[0026] In some embodiments, the vertical column is configured for
attachment to a conveyance system for conveying the growth module
to and/or away from the vertical column, and wherein the vertical
column configured for attachment to the conveyance system at a
bottom end and/or a top end of the vertical column.
[0027] In some embodiments, said conveyance system provides a
controlled, timed movement of each vertical column, in unison with
the other vertical columns attached to the conveyance system, to
move plants contained within a plurality of growth modules having
enclosures from a starting point location corresponding with an
immature growth stage to a finishing point corresponding with a
harvestable plant along a circuit within an
environmentally-controlled growing chamber.
[0028] In some embodiments, the vertical column further comprises
at least one attachment mechanism configured for detachable
attachment to the at least one growth module, wherein the at least
one attachment mechanism comprises: a "T"-rail; a "V"-rail; a
separable ring; a protruding notch; an indented notch; a slot; a
groove; a through-hole and retaining pin; a magnet; or any
combination thereof; and wherein said at least one attachment
mechanism is on a longitudinal surface of said vertical column.
[0029] In some embodiments, the at least one growth module is
attached in a radial pattern about the periphery of the vertical
column.
[0030] In some embodiments, said vertical column is configured to
provide at least one of: a forced airflow conduit; and a
gravity-feed water and nutritional conduit; wherein the forced
airflow conduit and the gravity-feed water and nutritional conduit
are optionally, within the at least partially hollow interior of
the vertical column, or on the exterior of the vertical column,
with ports accessible to and from an attached growth module.
[0031] In some embodiments, a top end of the vertical column is
configured for attachment to a support structure capable of
supporting a plurality other vertical columns, and wherein the
vertical column is configured to rotate about the central vertical
axis when attached to the support structure for uniformly exposing
the at least one lateral growth opening of the attached growth
modules to a light source and/or an airflow during each
rotation.
[0032] In some embodiments of the vertical column, the conveyance
system provides a controlled, timed movement of each vertical
column comprising attached growth modules, in unison with the other
vertical columns comprising attached growth modules attached to the
conveyance system, to move a plant contained within the of
enclosures of the growth modules from a starting point location
corresponding with an immature growth stage to a finishing point
corresponding with a harvestable plant along a circuit within an
environmentally-controlled growing chamber.
[0033] In some embodiments, each enclosure of the growth modules
further comprises: an environmental sensor; an environment sensor
array; a growth medium; a wicking medium; a root cluster of a
germinated plant; or any combination thereof; wherein the
environmental sensor or environmental sensor array is configured to
collect environmental data within and around a growth module and
transmit said data to a master control system capable of compiling
the environmental data and adjusting environmental conditions
within an environmentally-controlled growing chamber containing
said growth module.
[0034] In some embodiments of the at least one environmental sensor
or environmental sensor array, the environmental data collected and
transmitted comprises: nutrient concentrations; water pH; water
electrical conductivity (EC); O.sub.2 gas level concentrations;
CO.sub.2 gas level concentrations; O.sub.2 dissolved in water;
water oxidation reduction potential (ORP); water temperature; water
flow rate; air temperature; environmental ambient air speed; light
spectrum; light intensity; air pressure; air speed; humidity or any
combination thereof.
[0035] In some embodiments, the vertical column further comprises:
a guided vertical lift mechanism capable of supporting, raising and
lowering the detachably attachable growth modules along the
vertical length of the vertical column.
[0036] In some embodiments, the lift mechanism is configured on the
exterior or the interior of the vertical column.
[0037] In some embodiments, the plurality of growth modules can be
fixed at variable heights to accommodate variable stages of plant
growth, with or without spaces between each vertical module.
[0038] In some embodiments, the variable heights are adjustable
throughout a growth cycle.
[0039] In some embodiments, the plurality of growth modules can be
fixed at a plurality of radial positions.
[0040] In some embodiments, the vertical column further comprises,
a plurality of loading point locations along the length of the
vertical column to facilitate loading and unloading the plurality
of growth modules.
[0041] In some embodiments of the vertical column or unsupported,
self-standing tower of any one of the previously described
configurations, the conveyance system provides a controlled, timed
movement of each vertical column or unsupported, self-standing
tower, in unison with the other vertical columns or unsupported,
self-standing towers attached to the conveyance system, to move a
plant contained within the plurality of growth modules from a
starting point location corresponding with an immature growth stage
to a finishing point corresponding with a harvestable plant along a
circuit within an environmentally-controlled growing chamber.
[0042] In some embodiments, the growth module further comprises a
growth medium and a wicking medium placed within the enclosure;
wherein the wicking medium is wrapped within the growth medium and
is configured to contain a root structure of the plant, and wherein
the growth medium is configured to support the root structure of
the plant contained within the root system and to capture and hold
moisture and nutrients, and wherein the wicking medium is
configured to direct moisture and nutrients to the root structure
of a plant contained therein.
[0043] In some embodiments of the growth module, the wicking strip
and growth media are angularly oriented within the growth module so
as to promote the growth of the germinated plant through the
lateral growth opening, wherein the angular orientation is an angle
comprising between: about 0.0 degrees to about 45.0 degrees
vertical of parallel to horizontal; about 0.0 degrees to about 40.0
degrees vertical of parallel to horizontal; about 0.0 degrees to
about 35.0 degrees vertical of parallel to horizontal; about 0.0
degrees to about 34.0 degrees vertical of parallel to horizontal;
about 0.0 degrees to about 33.0 degrees vertical of parallel to
horizontal; about 0.0 degrees to about 32.0 degrees vertical of
parallel to horizontal; about 0.0 degrees to about 31.0 degrees
vertical of parallel to horizontal; or about 0.0 degrees to about
30.0 degrees vertical of parallel to horizontal.
[0044] Provided herein is a growth module for a vertical farming
system comprising an enclosure configured to securely hold at least
one plant, wherein the enclosure further comprises at least two of
the following: at least one vertical wall; a drain aperture in the
enclosure; at least a partial lower surface connected to the
enclosure; at least a partial upper surface connected to the
enclosure; at least one lateral growth opening in the enclosure
configured to permit growth of the at least one plant therethrough,
and to encourage lateral growth of the at least one plant away from
the growth module; a non-perpendicular, surface relative to the at
least one vertical wall; an attachment mechanism configured for
detachable attachment to a vertical column; an environmental
sensor; an environment sensor array; a growth medium; and a wicking
medium; wherein the enclosure is configured to provide a
containment shape comprising: a completely circular shape; a
partially circular shape; an elliptical shape; an irregular
geometric shape; a non-symmetric, irregular geometric shape; a
symmetric, multi-sided geometric shape; a triangular shape; a
rectangular shape; a square shape; a trapezoidal shape; a
pentagonal shape; a hexagonal shape; a heptagonal shape; an
octagonal shape; a geometric shape comprising non-flat sides; or
any combination thereof; wherein the growth module is configured to
support a plurality of growth modules stacked above and/or below
itself, wherein the drain aperture is configured to facilitate
vertical flow of fluids from the growth module to another growth
module stacked below itself, wherein said lateral growth opening is
configured to allow for an airflow to disrupt a boundary layer of
an under-canopy of the at least one plant growing away from the
growth module, wherein the environmental sensor or environmental
sensor array is configured to collect environmental data within and
around a growth module and transmit said data to a master control
system capable of compiling the environmental data and adjusting
environmental conditions within an environmentally-controlled
growing chamber containing said growth module, wherein the wicking
medium is wrapped within the growth medium and is configured to
contain a root structure of the plant, wherein the growth medium is
configured to support the root structure of the plant contained
within the root system and to capture and hold moisture and
nutrients, wherein the wicking medium is configured to direct
moisture and nutrients to the root structure of a plant contained
therein; and wherein the growth module has an adjustable height to
accommodate growth of the at least one plant.
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
[0045] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned
in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the
same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent
application was specifically and individually indicated to be
incorporated by reference.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0046] The novel features of the invention are set forth with
particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the
features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained
by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth
illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention
are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:
[0047] FIG. 1A is an illustrative isometric exterior view of a
production farming facility comprising environmentally controlled
growing chambers with multi-stage vertical growth systems
therein.
[0048] FIG. 1B is an illustrative isometric exterior cut-away view
of a production farming facility comprising environmentally
controlled growing chambers with multi-stage vertical growth
systems therein.
[0049] FIG. 2 is an illustrative isometric view of several
multi-stage vertical growth systems within one of the
environmentally controlled growing chambers.
[0050] FIG. 3 is another illustrative isometric view of one
multi-stage vertical growth system.
[0051] FIG. 4 is an illustrative detail end view one possible
vertical column configuration showing relative size and spacing
considerations.
[0052] FIG. 5A is a front view of side-by-side vertical columns
with illustrative representations of stacked growth modules
comprising at least one lateral growth opening.
[0053] FIG. 5B is a side view of a vertical column with
illustrative representations of stacked growth modules comprising
at least one lateral growth opening.
[0054] FIG. 5C is an illustrative Isometric view of a stacked
growth modules positioned at a random height along a vertical
column without spacers between the growth modules.
[0055] FIG. 5D is a non-limiting illustrative example of various
possible cross-sections (D-D) of the vertical column illustrated in
FIG. 5C.
[0056] FIG. 6A is an illustrative top isometric, side and bottom
isometric view of one of many possible configurations of a growth
module, illustrating a V-baffle hinge connection, one of many
possible hinge configurations.
[0057] FIG. 6B is an illustrative top view of a growth module
illustrating a T-baffle hinge connection, one of many possible
hinge configurations.
[0058] FIG. 7A is another illustrative isometric view of one of
many possible configurations of a growth module, illustrating a
circular design with a plurality of lateral growth openings.
[0059] FIG. 7B is an illustrative example of a circular growth
module configuration on a circular vertical column.
[0060] FIG. 7C is another illustrative example showing a top view
of a circular growth module configuration on a circular vertical
column, comprising a stackable sleeve configured to hold multiple
growth sub-modules.
[0061] FIG. 7D is illustrative example showing a cut-away section
of a growth module with a porous growth medium that may be placed
into a growth module.
[0062] FIG. 8A is an illustrative isometric end view of an
(optionally) superiorly mounted conveyor system capable of moving
the coupled vertical columns about a structural support
circuit.
[0063] FIG. 8B is an illustrative side cross-section view of an
(optionally) superiorly mounted conveyor system capable of moving
the coupled vertical columns about a structural support
circuit.
[0064] FIG. 9A is an illustrative isometric view of an alternative
vertical column configuration utilizing a growth module, in this
case, with a partially closed upper surface design with a lateral
growth opening, configured for loading into a sleeved collar-type
column configured for loading from the bottom.
[0065] FIG. 9B is an illustrative isometric view of another
alternative vertical column configuration utilizing a growth
module, in this case, with an open upper surface design with a
lateral growth opening, configured for loading into a sleeved
collar-type column configured for loading from the top.
[0066] FIG. 10 is an illustrative schematic of the machine learning
capability and system controls associated with the automated master
control system.
[0067] FIG. 11 is an illustrative schematic of a control system
configured for automatic and routine manual inputs of commands to
control the environmental growing conditions of the growing
chamber.
[0068] FIG. 12 is an illustrative schematic of a control system
configured for full automated control of the environmental growing
conditions of the growing chamber by an artificial
intelligence-controlled software module, not requiring routine
manual inputs.
[0069] FIG. 13A is an illustrative top view of a hydroponic plant
growth module configured for containing a sensor unit including
sensors for sensing one or more environmental growing
conditions.
[0070] FIG. 13B is an illustrative view of a sensor unit including
sensors for sensing one or more environmental growing
conditions.
[0071] FIG. 13C is an illustrative view of a sensor module
containing a sensor unit including sensors for sensing one or more
environmental growing conditions.
[0072] FIG. 13D is an illustrative view of a device for placement
over an opening of a sensor module and having apertures
therethrough allowing for one or more sensors to protrude
therefrom.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0073] Advancements in technology are making it feasible to control
the effects of nature with the advent of "controlled indoor
agriculture". Improved efficiencies in space utilization, lighting,
and a better understanding of hydroponics, aeroponics, crop cycles,
and advancements in environmental control systems have allowed man
to better recreate environments conducive for agriculture with the
goals of greater yields per square foot, better nutrition and lower
cost.
[0074] A multi-stage, plant growing system is configured for high
density growth and crop yields and includes vertical columns, an
enclosed controlled environmental growth chamber, interchangeable
growth modules, automated lighting, a nutrient supply system, an
airflow source and a control system capable of machine learning
wherein the crops are optimally spaced and continually staged in
their planting cycles to provide an accelerated and continuous
annual production yield. The columns are capable of moving about a
circuit within the environment to promote automated staging for
planting and harvesting activities and the control system is
capable of automated adjustments to optimize growing conditions
within the growth chamber to make continuous improvements to crop
yields, visual appeal and nutrient content.
[0075] Combining advances in agriculture with the increasing
technological advances of industry acquired since the industrial
revolution and more recently, the concept of assembly line
automation, the inventors herein have conceived a vertical farming
structure 101 in a controlled environment 100, 1000, 1001 having
columns comprising automated hydroponic plant growth modules 104,
capable of being moved about an automated conveyance system
200(a/b) in a carousel fashion, exposed to controlled lighting 108,
airflow provided by an airflow source 400 and humidity, with ideal
nutritional support provided by a nutrient supply system 300.
[0076] Among those technology advancements is the application of
new control systems 600 capable of machine learning, or artificial
intelligence, capable of assimilating thousands or even millions of
data points acquired by strategically placed sensors 615 during the
course of a growing cycle or multiple growing cycles, and further
capable of automatically adjusting the growth conditions 610 for a
crop 20 on a year-round basis within the controlled environment
such as lighting 108, fertilizers (nutrients), moisture, gas
levels, temperature, air flow, and ultimately, packaging to produce
higher yields at a lower cost per square foot, with reduced overall
losses per planted crop, better nutritional value, visual appeal
and faster growth cycles.
[0077] A multi-stage, plant growing system 1001, 100, 101 has been
configured for high density growth and crop yields and includes
among other things, towers 102 and/or vertical columns comprising a
plurality of interchangeable growth modules 104, an enclosed
controlled environmental growth chamber 100, sensors or sensor
arrays 30, 615, 110 and control systems 600 capable of machine
learning wherein the crops are optimally spaced and continually
staged in their planting cycles utilizing the interchangeable
growth modules 104 to provide an accelerated and continuous annual
production yield. The growth modules are capable of being moveably
and detachably affixed to vertical growth columns 102, or
stand-alone towers 102, within the enclosed controlled
environmental growth chamber 100 and support automated staging for
planting and harvesting activities within a growth cycle. The
growth modules are adaptable to monitoring by sensors 615, sensor
arrays 30, 110 and control systems 600 that are capable of
automated adjustments to control mechanical operations and growing
conditions within the growth chamber and to make continuous
improvements to crop yields, visual appeal and nutrient content of
the crops grown within the growth modules.
[0078] As illustrated in FIGS. 1A, 1B and FIG. 2 the inventors have
conceived a system 1001 for automating and integrating the
traditional agricultural farm and greenhouse farming under one roof
by incorporating one or more massive environmentally-controlled
growing chambers 100; a plurality of towers 101 and/or vertical
growth columns 102 disposed within each of the growing chambers,
the towers and/or vertical growth columns comprising unique growth
modules 104 with lateral growth openings 106 to optimize crop
yields per square foot by minimizing vertical crowding of plants
between growth modules, and an environment control system 600 for
regulating at least one growing condition 610 in the
environmentally-controlled growing chamber 100. Additionally, the
inclusion of automated conveyance systems 200(a) and sensors 615
tied to special machine learning software 690 configured to
adaptively optimize the growing conditions 610 within the growth
chambers in response to any number of identified characteristics
695 monitored by the sensors has been shown to dramatically
increase the annual crop yield by shortening the growth cycle of
crops and expediting the delivery of fresh produce from the
vertical farm facility 1000 to local markets. An exemplary
characteristic is leaf area index (LAI), which may be measured with
the implementation of image capture techniques and measuring
devices 625 including cameras and accompanying software. By
combining these factors with immediate and automated planting and
harvesting apparatus capable of re-planting new crops and
fresh-packing the harvested crop for immediate bulk delivery by
local transport, the inventors have been able to see increases in
production and output up to at least 33 growth cycles per year.
[0079] As further illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, an
environmentally-controlled growing chamber is extremely large and
is limited in geographic size and volume only by the ability to
economically provide environmental systems (re: heating,
ventilation, air conditioning, (HVAC)) capable of accurately
controlling the internal environment of the chamber. Those
conditions would include: water temperature and qualities, air
temperature, humidity, gas content of the air in the chamber (i.e.:
CO.sub.2, N.sub.2, O.sub.2, etc.), airflow, lighting quality and
quantity.
[0080] Further, each chamber is capable of holding multiple towers
and/or vertical growth structures, each structure containing
multiple towers and/or vertical columns, (i.e.: up to hundreds, or
more), each column of which is capable of supporting multiple
growth modules, (i.e.: up to hundreds, or more). Alternatively, a
vertical growth structure can contain as few as three vertical
growth columns or towers, allowing for many vertical growth
structures within the environmentally-controlled growing chamber,
each comprising different crops within a given chamber.
[0081] Additionally, as was illustrated in FIG. 1A, natural
external light is utilized to further augment this system, by
either providing an additional (direct) light source through the
roof of the environmentally-controlled growing chamber, or by
supplying solar power to the internal systems through the use of
solar panels mounted on the roof or from a nearby solar farm that
can be used for lighting, power back-up power systems or for
economically powering any of the environmental control systems on a
daily basis.
[0082] As used herein, machine learning or artificial intelligence
means intelligence exhibited by machines. In computer science, an
ideal "intelligent" machine is a flexible rational agent that
perceives its environment and takes actions that maximize its
chance of success at some goal. Colloquially, the term "artificial
intelligence" is applied when a machine mimics "cognitive"
functions that humans associate with other human minds, such as
"learning" and "problem solving". As machines become increasingly
capable, facilities once thought to require intelligence are
removed from the definition. For example, optical character
recognition is no longer perceived as an exemplar of "artificial
intelligence" having become a routine technology. Capabilities
still classified as AI include advanced Chess and Go systems and
self-driving cars. The central problems (or goals) of AI research
include reasoning, knowledge, planning, learning, natural language
processing (communication), perception and the ability to move and
manipulate objects. General intelligence is among the field's
long-term goals. Approaches include statistical methods,
computational intelligence, soft computing (e.g. machine learning),
and traditional symbolic AI. Many tools are used in AI, including
versions of search and mathematical optimization, logic, methods
based on probability and economics. The AI field draws upon
computer science, mathematics, psychology, linguistics, philosophy,
neuroscience and artificial psychology.
[0083] The AI system herein comprises various sensors and circuit
boards that optionally include a Raspberry Pi (a series of credit
card-sized single-board computers) or Arduinos (an open-source
prototyping platform) that either through wifi, radio frequency,
wires, or other mechanism communicate to a server that can store
data in the cloud, or a hard drive, or in a data historian. Humans
may play some role in the form of gathering, analyzing, or
manipulating this data.
[0084] With environmental data such as oxygen levels, humidity,
temperature, light penetration, airflow etc. and data points on the
crop cycle such as yield, taste, plant health, nutrient intake,
etc., the learning possibilities are expanded significantly.
Compounding this data within improved horticultural knowledge now
makes it possible to attain up to approximately 33 crop cycles in a
year per vertical carousel, versus one or two typical growing
seasons in outdoor agriculture or approximately eight growing
cycles in some greenhouse environments.
[0085] Those of skill in the art will recognize that the various
illustrative logical blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps
described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein,
including with reference to the control systems described herein,
for example, may be implemented as electronic hardware, software
stored on a computer readable medium and executable by a processor,
or combinations of both. To clearly illustrate this
interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative
components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been
described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether
such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends
upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on
the overall system. Skilled artisans may implement the described
functionality in varying ways for each particular application, but
such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing
a departure from the scope of the present invention. For example,
various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and circuits
described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may
be implemented or performed with a general purpose processor, a
digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated
circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other
programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic,
discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed
to perform the functions described herein. A general purpose
processor may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the
processor may be any conventional processor, controller,
microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be
implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a
combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a Raspberry PI further
comprising Arduinos, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more
microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such
configuration. Software associated with such modules may reside in
RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory,
registers, a hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other
suitable form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary
storage medium is coupled to the processor such the processor can
read information from, and write information to, the storage
medium. In the alternative, the storage medium may be integral to
the processor. The processor and the storage medium may reside in
an ASIC. For example, in one embodiment, a controller for use of
control of the IVT comprises a processor (not shown).
Certain Definitions
[0086] Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein
have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary
skill in the art to which this invention belongs. As used in this
specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a,"
"an," and "the" include plural references unless the context
clearly dictates otherwise. Any reference to "or" herein is
intended to encompass "and/or" unless otherwise stated.
Digital Processing Device
[0087] In some embodiments, the Automated Control System and or the
Master Control System 600 for the multi-stage, automated growth
system described herein includes a digital processing device 635,
or use of the same. In further embodiments, the digital processing
device includes one or more hardware central processing units (CPU)
that carry out the device's functions. In still further
embodiments, the digital processing device further comprises an
operating system 665 configured to perform executable instructions.
In some embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally
connected a computer network. In further embodiments, the digital
processing device is optionally connected to the Internet such that
it accesses the World Wide Web. In still further embodiments, the
digital processing device is optionally connected to a cloud
computing infrastructure. In other embodiments, the digital
processing device is optionally connected to an intranet. In other
embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected
to a data storage device.
[0088] In accordance with the description herein, suitable digital
processing devices include, by way of non-limiting examples, server
computers, desktop computers, laptop computers, notebook computers,
sub-notebook computers, netbook computers, netpad computers,
set-top computers, media streaming devices, handheld computers,
Internet appliances, mobile smartphones, tablet computers, personal
digital assistants, video game consoles, and vehicles. Those of
skill in the art will recognize that many smartphones are suitable
for use in the system described herein. Those of skill in the art
will also recognize that select televisions, video players, and
digital music players with optional computer network connectivity
are suitable for use in the system described herein. Suitable
tablet computers include those with booklet, slate, and convertible
configurations, known to those of skill in the art.
[0089] In some embodiments, the digital processing device includes
an operating system configured to perform executable instructions.
The operating system is, for example, software, including programs
and data, which manages the device's hardware and provides services
for execution of applications. Those of skill in the art will
recognize that suitable server operating systems include, by way of
non-limiting examples, FreeBSD, OpenBSD, NetBSD.RTM., Linux,
Apple.RTM. Mac OS X Server.RTM., Oracle.RTM. Solaris.RTM., Windows
Server.RTM., and Novell.RTM. NetWare.RTM.. Those of skill in the
art will recognize that suitable personal computer operating
systems include, by way of non-limiting examples, Microsoft.RTM.
Windows.RTM., Apple.RTM. Mac OS X.RTM., UNIX.RTM., and UNIX-like
operating systems such as GNU/Linux.RTM.. In some embodiments, the
operating system is provided by cloud computing. Those of skill in
the art will also recognize that suitable mobile smart phone
operating systems include, by way of non-limiting examples,
Nokia.RTM. Symbian.RTM. OS, Apple.RTM. iOS.RTM., Research In
Motion.RTM. BlackBerry OS.RTM., Google.RTM. Android.RTM.,
Microsoft.RTM. Windows Phone.RTM. OS, Microsoft.RTM. Windows
Mobile.RTM. OS, Linux.RTM., and Palm.RTM. WebOS.RTM.. Those of
skill in the art will also recognize that suitable media streaming
device operating systems include, by way of non-limiting examples,
Apple TV.RTM., Roku.RTM., Boxee.RTM., Google TV.RTM., Google
Chromecast.RTM., Amazon Fire.RTM., and Samsung.RTM. HomeSync.RTM..
Those of skill in the art will also recognize that suitable video
game console operating systems include, by way of non-limiting
examples, Sony.RTM. PS3.RTM., Sony.RTM. PS4.RTM., Microsoft.RTM.
Xbox 360.RTM., Microsoft Xbox One, Nintendo.RTM. Wii.RTM.,
Nintendo.RTM. Wii U.RTM., and Ouya.RTM..
[0090] In some embodiments, the device includes a storage and/or
memory device 640. The storage and/or memory device is one or more
physical apparatuses used to store data or programs on a temporary
or permanent basis. In some embodiments, the device is volatile
memory and requires power to maintain stored information. In some
embodiments, the device is non-volatile memory and retains stored
information when the digital processing device is not powered. In
further embodiments, the non-volatile memory comprises flash
memory. In some embodiments, the non-volatile memory comprises
dynamic random-access memory (DRAM). In some embodiments, the
non-volatile memory comprises ferroelectric random access memory
(FRAM). In some embodiments, the non-volatile memory comprises
phase-change random access memory (PRAM). In other embodiments, the
device is a storage device including, by way of non-limiting
examples, CD-ROMs, DVDs, flash memory devices, magnetic disk
drives, magnetic tapes drives, optical disk drives, and cloud
computing based storage. In further embodiments, the storage and/or
memory device is a combination of devices such as those disclosed
herein.
[0091] In some embodiments, the digital processing device 635
includes a display 670 to send visual information to a user. In
some embodiments, the display is a cathode ray tube (CRT). In some
embodiments, the display is a liquid crystal display (LCD). In
further embodiments, the display is a thin film transistor liquid
crystal display (TFT-LCD). In some embodiments, the display is an
organic light emitting diode (OLED) display. In various further
embodiments, on OLED display is a passive-matrix OLED (PMOLED) or
active-matrix OLED (AMOLED) display. In some embodiments, the
display is a plasma display. In other embodiments, the display is a
video projector. In still further embodiments, the display is a
combination of devices such as those disclosed herein.
[0092] In some embodiments, the digital processing device 635
includes an input device to receive information from a user. In
some embodiments, the input device is a keyboard. In some
embodiments, the input device is a pointing device including, by
way of non-limiting examples, a mouse, trackball, track pad,
joystick, game controller, or stylus. In some embodiments, the
input device is a touch screen or a multi-touch screen. In other
embodiments, the input device is a microphone to capture voice or
other sound input. In other embodiments, the input device is a
video camera or other sensor to capture motion or visual input. In
further embodiments, the input device is a Kinect, Leap Motion, or
the like. In still further embodiments, the input device is a
combination of devices such as those disclosed herein.
Non-Transitory Computer Readable Storage Medium
[0093] In some embodiments, the Automated Control System and or the
Master Control System 600 for the multi-stage, automated growth
system disclosed herein includes one or more non-transitory
computer readable storage media 645 encoded with a program
including instructions executable by the operating system of an
optionally networked digital processing device. In further
embodiments, a computer readable storage medium is a tangible
component of a digital processing device. In still further
embodiments, a computer readable storage medium is optionally
removable from a digital processing device. In some embodiments, a
computer readable storage medium includes, by way of non-limiting
examples, CD-ROMs, DVDs, flash memory devices, solid state memory,
magnetic disk drives, magnetic tape drives, optical disk drives,
cloud computing systems and services, and the like. In some cases,
the program and instructions are permanently, substantially
permanently, semi-permanently, or non-transitorily encoded on the
media.
Computer Program
[0094] In some embodiments, the Automated Control System and or the
Master Control System 600 for the multi-stage, automated growth
system disclosed herein includes at least one computer program, or
use of the same. A computer program includes a sequence of
instructions, executable in the digital processing device's CPU,
written to perform a specified task. Computer readable instructions
may be implemented as program modules 655, 665, such as functions,
objects, Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), data
structures, and the like, that perform particular tasks or
implement particular abstract data types. In light of the
disclosure provided herein, those of skill in the art will
recognize that a computer program may be written in various
versions of various languages.
[0095] The functionality of the computer readable instructions may
be combined or distributed as desired in various environments. In
some embodiments, a computer program comprises one sequence of
instructions. In some embodiments, a computer program comprises a
plurality of sequences of instructions. In some embodiments, a
computer program is provided from one location. In other
embodiments, a computer program is provided from a plurality of
locations. In various embodiments, a computer program includes one
or more software modules. In various embodiments, a computer
program includes, in part or in whole, one or more web
applications, one or more mobile applications, one or more
standalone applications, one or more web browser plug-ins,
extensions, add-ins, or add-ons, or combinations thereof.
[0096] As used herein, and unless otherwise specified, the term
"about" or "approximately" means an acceptable error for a
particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art,
which depends in part on how the value is measured or determined.
In certain embodiments, the term "about" or "approximately" means
within 1, 2, 3, or 4 standard deviations. In certain embodiments,
the term "about" or "approximately" means within 30%, 25%, 20%,
15%, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, 0.1%, or 0.05%
of a given value or range. In certain embodiments, the term "about"
or "approximately" means within 40.0 mm, 30.0 mm, 20.0 mm, 10.0mm
5.0 mm 1.0 mm, 0.9 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.3
mm, 0.2 mm or 0.1 mm of a given value or range. In certain
embodiments, the term "about" or "approximately" means within 20.0
degrees, 15.0 degrees, 10.0 degrees, 9.0 degrees, 8.0 degrees, 7.0
degrees, 6.0 degrees, 5.0 degrees, 4.0 degrees, 3.0 degrees, 2.0
degrees, 1.0 degrees, 0.9 degrees, 0.8 degrees, 0.7 degrees, 0.6
degrees, 0.5 degrees, 0.4 degrees, 0.3 degrees, 0.2 degrees, 0.1
degrees, 0.09 degrees. 0.08 degrees, 0.07 degrees, 0.06 degrees,
0.05 degrees, 0.04 degrees, 0.03 degrees, 0.02 degrees or 0.01
degrees of a given value or range.
[0097] As used herein, the terms "connected", "operationally
connected", "coupled", "operationally coupled", "operationally
linked", "operably connected", "operably coupled", "operably
linked," and like terms, refer to a relationship (mechanical,
linkage, coupling, etc.) between elements whereby operation of one
element results in a corresponding, following, or simultaneous
operation or actuation of a second element. It is noted that in
using said terms to describe inventive embodiments, specific
structures or mechanisms that link or couple the elements are
typically described. However, unless otherwise specifically stated,
when one of said terms is used, the term indicates that the actual
linkage or coupling may take a variety of forms, which in certain
instances will be readily apparent to a person of ordinary skill in
the relevant technology.
[0098] For description purposes, the term "radial" is used here to
indicate a direction or position that is perpendicular relative to
a longitudinal axis.
[0099] The term "axial" as used here refers to a direction or
position along an axis that is parallel to a main or longitudinal
axis. For clarity and conciseness, at times similar components
labeled similarly (for example, axis 1011A and axis 1011B) will be
referred to collectively by a single label (for example, axis
1011).
[0100] As used herein, and unless otherwise specified, the term
"anterior" means the front surface of an apparatus or structure;
often used to indicate the position of one structure relative to
another, that is, situated nearer the front part of an apparatus or
structure.
[0101] As used herein, and unless otherwise specified, the term
"posterior" means the back surface of an apparatus or structure;
Often used to indicate the position of one structure relative to
another, that is, nearer the back of an apparatus or structure.
[0102] As used herein, and unless otherwise specified, the term
"superior" refers to an apparatus or structure and means situated
above or nearer the vertex of the head in relation to a specific
reference point; opposite of inferior. It may also mean situated
above or directed upward.
[0103] As used herein, and unless otherwise specified, the term
"inferior" refers to an apparatus or structure and means situated
nearer the soles of the feet in relation to a specific reference
point; opposite of superior. It may also mean situated below or
directed downward.
[0104] As used herein, and unless otherwise specified, the term
"lateral" means denoting a position farther from the median plane
or midline of an apparatus or a structure. It may also mean
"pertaining to a side".
[0105] As used herein and unless otherwise specified, the term
"medial" means, situated toward the median plane or midline of an
apparatus or structure.
[0106] As used herein, the terms "comprises", "comprising", or any
other variation thereof, are intended to cover a nonexclusive
inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that
comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements
but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to
such process, method, article, or apparatus.
[0107] As used herein, the term "vertical growth assembly" means a
tower assembly comprising a plurality of growth modules, or
alternately means a vertical column or vertical growth column
comprising a plurality of growth modules. The tower assembly
comprises either a supported tower or an unsupported, self-standing
tower. The vertical column typically comprises a vertical support
member having a plurality of growth modules affixed thereto. The
vertical support member may affix to an outer edge of a growth
module container or through an interior portion thereof.
[0108] As used herein, "light intensity" refers to or
photosynthetically active radiation [PAR] or photosynthetic photon
flux density (PPFD). PPFD is a measured metric whereas PAR is a
descriptive term for a range of wavelengths.
[0109] Provided herein is a vertical growth tower for vertical
farming comprising a plurality of growth modules, each growth
module comprising: an enclosure configured to securely hold at
least one plant; a drain aperture in the enclosure; and at least
one lateral growth opening in the enclosure configured to permit
growth of the at least one plant therethrough, and to encourage
lateral growth of the at least one plant away from the enclosure;
wherein one or more of the growth modules is configured to
stackably support one or more of the other growth modules above
and/or below itself within the vertical growth tower, thereby
allowing formation of a plurality of vertically stacked growth
modules and enabling vertical farming of a plurality of plants in
growth modules stacked along a vertical axis; wherein the drain
aperture allows vertical flow of fluids comprising water and one or
more nutrients between adjacent growth modules within the vertical
growth tower in a flow direction generally downward along the
vertical axis, and wherein said lateral growth opening is
configured to allow for an airflow to disrupt a boundary layer of
an under-canopy of the at least one plant growing away from the
growth module.
[0110] In some embodiments, a growth module is configured to
provide a containment shape comprising: a completely circular
shape; a partially circular shape; an elliptical shape; an
irregular geometric shape; a non-symmetric, irregular geometric
shape; a symmetric, multi-sided geometric shape; a triangular
shape; a rectangular shape; a square shape; a trapezoidal shape; a
pentagonal shape; a hexagonal shape; a heptagonal shape; an
octagonal shape; a geometric shape comprising non-flat sides; or
any combination thereof.
[0111] In some embodiments, the vertical growth tower further
comprises: at least a partial lower surface connected to the
containment shape; wherein the drain aperture is positioned in or
near the at least partial lower surface, and wherein the at least
partial lower surface optionally comprises a non-perpendicular
surface relative to the containment shape, configured to facilitate
the movement of fluids toward the drain aperture.
[0112] In some embodiments, the vertical growth tower further
comprises at least a partial upper surface connected to the
containment shape.
[0113] In some embodiments, a plurality of growth modules is an
unsupported, self-standing vertical growth tower.
[0114] In some embodiments, each growth module is orientable such
that the at least one growth opening of a first growth module faces
a different direction from a corresponding at least one growth
opening of the one or more other growth modules within the vertical
growth tower.
[0115] In some embodiments, a top end of the unsupported,
self-standing vertical growth tower is configured for attachment to
a conveyance system for conveying growth modules toward or away
from the vertical growth tower.
[0116] As shown in FIG. 4, a vertical growth tower 102, or simply a
"tower", is illustrated with a plurality of growth modules 104
stacked vertically, one on top of another. By way of non-limiting
example, in cases where hydroponic plant growth modules in the
vertical growth tower are adapted to house a growing plant that
ultimately requires additional spacing between hydroponic plant
growth modules during the growth cycle, FIG. 4 illustrates where
spacer modules 105 (and/or sensor modules 110) are configured to be
placed in single or multiple layers between hydroponic plant growth
modules. The placement of these additional modules can occur at any
time in the growth cycle, in the initial seeding stages, or during
the middle or later growth stages, using either manual or automated
loading and conveyor systems as will be described hereinafter.
[0117] Each growth module may be placed directly on top of the
prior growth module, or spaced apart, with or without a "spacer"
105 (and/or sensor module 110) between each growth module,
depending on the stage of the growth cycle. Spacers, when used, are
generally configured with drain holes 13 to allow for passage of
airflow and moisture between vertically-spaced growth modules. Each
growth module 104 is configured as an enclosure with at least one
lateral growth opening 106, configured to permit and encourage
growth of a plant laterally, away from the growth module.
Additionally, the utilization of the lateral growth opening and
resulting lateral growth of a plant provides an opportunity for
better circulation of airflow from a variety of directions, to
better disrupt a boundary layer of an under-canopy of a plant, thus
minimizing stagnant moisture accumulation and the potential for
undesired biologic growth (i.e.: fungus, etc.).
[0118] An enclosure stack utilized in a particular tower or
columnar growth structure is configured from a plethora of
potential shapes, but generally speaking, all growth modules within
a particular tower or columnar growth structure would ideally be
the same shape. Alternatively, it is also conceived that the
enclosures could have different shapes for the containment
component of the growth module, but be configured with identical
mounting components on the top, bottom, side and/or through a
central aspect thereof, that would allow for stacking of different
shaped growth modules.
[0119] In some embodiments, the plurality of growth modules is an
unsupported, self-standing tower.
[0120] As further illustrated in FIG. 4, in some configurations, a
vertical growth tower 102 is configured to stand as an unsupported,
self-standing tower. This is possible due to the construction of
the containment shape of the growth module. The containment shape
is configurable to allow for the growth modules to potentially
snap, press-fit, or otherwise snugly adhere to one another in a
vertical fashion, providing stability to the structure
[0121] In some embodiments of the tower, a growth module 104 is
configured to provide a containment shape comprising: a completely
circular shape; a partially circular shape; an elliptical shape; an
irregular geometric shape; a non-symmetric, irregular geometric
shape; a symmetric, multi-sided geometric shape; a triangular
shape; a rectangular shape; a square shape; a trapezoidal shape; a
pentagonal shape; a hexagonal shape; a heptagonal shape; an
octagonal shape; a geometric shape comprising non-flat sides; or
any combination thereof. Non-limiting examples of these shapes and
characteristics can be noted in FIGS. 5A-5D, 6A, 6B, 7A, 7B and 7C,
at least.
[0122] As noted above, the inventors have conceived a variety of
potential shapes that the enclosures of the growth module 104 could
have, resulting in towers or vertical growth structures of similar
vertical shape. There are a virtually limitless number of potential
containment shapes that can be utilized. Additionally, the vertical
columns used for supported vertical towers can also comprise a
nearly limitless number of shapes as illustrated in the
non-limiting examples shown in cross-section D-D of FIG. 5D, each
of which is configurable with an at least partially hollow center
to allow for nutrient and/or airflow that is ventable to the
attached growth modules.
[0123] Referring to FIGS. 6A, 6B, 7A and 7C, three such
configurations of growth modules are illustrated. FIGS. 6A and 6B
illustrate a growth module 104 having a containment shape that is
representative of a rectangular shape or a square shape comprising
a slotted lateral growth opening 106, partially open top 11,
partially open bottom 12, multiple configurations of drain openings
13, hinge attachment feature 109 for removable fixation to a
vertical column 102 and an optionally available separable side wall
to allow for vertical expansion of the growth module to accommodate
larger plant sizes. As further noted in FIG. 6B, the growth module
is configurable to mount above or below a spacer module 105 or
sensor module 110, having similar features for drainage and
attachment for removable fixation to a vertical column 102. Whereas
FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a growth module 104 having a containment
shape that is representative of a completely circular shape, a
lateral opening 106 (of any convenient shape), drain holes 13 and a
central fixation means for removable fixation to a vertical column
102. Still further, in some embodiments the hydroponic plant growth
modules 104 and spacer modules 105 are configured with expandable
wall height means 25, as illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 7B.
[0124] Further still, the vertical column is configurable as a
rotatable column, configured to rotate about a central axis of
itself from a vertical support structure and optionally
configurable with weights 40 or balancing means to provide a
stabilizing effect and minimize "sway" of the column(s) within the
environmentally controlled farming facility.
[0125] Further still, FIG. 7C illustrates yet another non-limiting
configuration of circular growth module 104, alternately described
as a composite growth module assembly 104 having a sleeved vertical
column opening 102x with a capture mechanism for attachment to a
vertical column and containment shape configured to hold sub-growth
modules 104s, each containing a plant 20 and further comprising at
least one drain 13. The containment shape-growth module 104
configured to hold the sub-growth modules 104s is configurable to
hold any shape of sub-growth modules 104s that is selected for a
given plant species, depending on what is required, including a
completely circular shape; a partially circular shape; an
elliptical shape; an irregular geometric shape; a non-symmetric,
irregular geometric shape; a symmetric, multi-sided geometric
shape; a triangular shape; a rectangular shape; a trapezoidal
shape; a pentagonal shape; a hexagonal shape; a heptagonal shape;
an octagonal shape; a geometric shape comprising non-flat sides; or
any combination thereof.
[0126] Referring now to FIG. 7D, a cut-away section of a growth
module illustrates just one example of growth medium contained
therein. Further still the growth module can contain a wicking
medium; a root cluster of a germinated plant; or any combination
thereof.
[0127] In some embodiments of the tower, at least one of the growth
modules of any configuration described herein has an adjustable
height feature 25 to adjustably accommodate growth of the at least
one plant contained therein.
[0128] Referring back to FIG. 4, it can now be appreciated that the
growth modules are alternately configured to have adjustable
sizing. This is desirable for a number of reasons and possible in a
number of ways. At any given time during a plant growth cycle, it
is desirable to provide more space between plants as they mature.
By providing expandable growth modules, the space between stacked
modules is easily accomplished without the need to transplant the
plant to a new, larger/taller module.
[0129] When addressing the expandable nature of a growth module,
the inventors have conceived a growth module with telescoping side
walls that provide added space between stacked growth modules. The
telescoping walls can come in at least two configurations; wherein
a number of sliding, telescoping panels affixed to the outside of
the containment shape, are movably and lockably adjusted to
telescope up or down on the outside of the containment shape,
providing additional air gap space between adjacent modules without
changing the internal containment shape holding the growth medium
and the plant. Alternatively, the telescoping walls can be integral
to the containment shape, so that when the top and bottom of the
containment walls of the growth module are pulled in opposite
directions, the internal volume and external height of height of
the growth module increases, providing a larger gap between the
lateral openings of adjacent growth modules.
[0130] In some embodiments, the tower further comprises at least a
partial lower surface connected to the containment shape. In some
embodiments, the drain aperture is positioned in or near the at
least partial lower surface. In some embodiments, the at least
partial lower surface optionally comprises a non-perpendicular
surface relative to the containment shape, configured to facilitate
the movement of fluids toward the drain aperture.
[0131] As further illustrated in FIGS. 6A, 7A or 7C, the growth
module containment shape is variable and allows for many scenarios
for the optimization of plant growth and size. FIG. 6A illustrates
a growth module with 3 complete sides and an incomplete, but
connected fourth side with a lateral growth opening, a partially
open upper surface and a partially open lower surface. The lateral
growth opening may alternately be a hole of any shape in any
complete and/or connected side of the containment shape. The
partial lower surface provides for a drain aperture to facilitate
vertical movement of fluids and nutrients from an upper growth
module to a lower growth module. In the event of a solid or
complete lower surface in the growth module, at least one drain
hole would be provided. Additionally, the lower surface is
optionally configured to have a slope that would encourage
gravitational flow of the fluids and nutrients towards the drain
aperture.
[0132] In some embodiments, the tower further comprises at least a
partial upper surface connected to the containment shape. In some
embodiments of the unsupported, self-standing tower, each growth
module is orientable in a different direction from at least one
other growth module within the tower.
[0133] Referring back to FIGS. 5C and 6A, it is apparent that some
embodiments of the growth modules comprising the tower are
alternately configured to have either open upper surfaces or
partially open upper surfaces to, either of which are configurable
to support stacking. As noted previously, the growth modules are
configured to promote stacking, such that the at least one lateral
growth opening in the enclosure of each module can be oriented in
the same direction or an alternate direction to the growth module
above or below it, simply be rotating the enclosure and securing
the symmetric attachment features of the growth modules to the one
above or below it.
[0134] Alternatively, FIG. 7A illustrates a circular growth module
with multiple lateral growth openings in the containment shape. As
with any of the other containment shapes, the illustrated growth
module is stackable. The stackable assembly is possible with or
without a central or support column. In the absence of a central
column, a central hole would/could provide a conduit for airflow,
additional fluid flow or nutrient supply conduits, for example. The
illustrated module comprises both an upper and lower surface, and
further comprises multiple apertures in both the top and bottom
(not shown) surfaces to facilitate gravitational flow of the fluids
and nutrients and vertical drainage to another growth module
below.
[0135] Still further, FIG. 7C illustrates a top view of another
circular growth module configuration on an optional circular
vertical column, comprising a stackable sleeve configured to hold
multiple growth modules. As with FIG. 7A, this module 104
illustrates just one possible arrangement of multiple lateral
growth openings in the containment shape. As described previously,
the stackable sleeve assembly 102x is possible with or without a
central support column 102. In the absence of a central column, a
central hole would/could provide a conduit for airflow, additional
fluid flow or nutrient supply conduits, for example. As shown, a
growth module is configured with multiple slots or cut away
sections configured to hold internally-captured growth modules
104s, or alternately, sub-modules. Such a configuration makes it
possible to optimize space on the column during the early growth
cycle following germination, where a plant requires less space. At
a later time, the internally-captured growth modules 104s, or
alternately, sub-modules, would be removed and either the plants
therein would be transplanted to larger modules, or the modules
themselves would simply be moved to a vertically-stacked
column.
[0136] It would be obvious to one skilled in the art that the size
of any growth module is not limited. Growth modules can all be of a
common size or be scaled larger or smaller as needed to accommodate
the need. For example, newly germinated plants could be placed in a
small, starter modules (of any shape), and placed in a sleeved
containment module. Or newly germinated plants could be placed in a
standard module (of any shape), and placed in a much larger sleeved
containment module. Further still, newly germinated plants could be
placed in small, starter modules (of any shape), and placed
directly into a tower or vertical growth assembly, then later,
transplanted into larger growth modules, if needed and replaced in
the vertical growth assembly. Or alternately, the newly germinated
plants could be placed in a standard module (of any shape), and
placed directly into a tower or vertical growth assembly where it
will remain for the entire growth cycle.
[0137] Further still, FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate yet another
variation of a sleeved vertical growth column 1101. As illustrated
in the figures, growth modules 104 of nearly any shape, would be
loadable from either the top or the bottom of the vertical sleeve
1101, and contained within the sleeve. In this illustrative
configuration, each module would support the combined weight of the
other modules above it in the sleeve. However, one of skill in the
art would easily recognize that a guided lift system mentioned
previously, and described in greater detail below, could
alternatively be used to provide spacing between the growth modules
as they are loaded into the sleeve.
[0138] Alternatively, the inventors have also conceived of similar
sleeved column comprising a guided vertical lift track 500, or
similar track feature, configured to work in concert with a
loading/unloading system (not shown), wherein the hydroponic plant
growth modules are loaded into the sleeve 1101 and spaced along the
internal track 500 to control spacing between modules. In this
configuration, the column/sleeve can also be loaded or unloaded
from either the top or the bottom in a controlled and/or automated
manner with or without a loading/unloading system described
above.
[0139] In some embodiments, a top end of the unsupported,
self-standing tower is configured for attachment to a conveyance
system for conveying growth modules toward or away from the tower.
In some embodiments of the unsupported, self-standing tower, a
bottom end of the unsupported, self-standing tower is configured
for attachment to a conveyance system for conveying growth modules
toward or away from the tower.
[0140] In some embodiments, said vertical column is configured to
provide at least one of: a forced airflow conduit; and a
gravity-feed water and nutritional conduit; wherein the forced
airflow conduit and the gravity-feed water and nutritional conduit
are optionally, within the at least partially hollow interior of
the vertical column, or on the exterior of the vertical column,
with ports accessible to and from an attached growth module.
[0141] In some embodiments, a top end of the vertical column is
configured for attachment to a support structure capable of
supporting a plurality other vertical columns, and wherein the
vertical column is configured to rotate about the central vertical
axis when attached to the support structure for uniformly exposing
the at least one lateral growth opening of the attached growth
modules to a light source and/or an airflow during each
rotation.
[0142] In some embodiments of the vertical column, the conveyance
system provides a controlled, timed movement of each vertical
column comprising attached growth modules, in unison with the other
vertical columns comprising attached growth modules attached to the
conveyance system, to move a plant contained within the of
enclosures of the growth modules from a starting point location
corresponding with an immature growth stage to a finishing point
corresponding with a harvestable plant along a circuit within an
environmentally-controlled growing chamber.
[0143] In some embodiments, each enclosure of the growth modules
further comprises: an environmental sensor; an environment sensor
array; a growth medium; a wicking medium; a root cluster of a
germinated plant; or any combination thereof; wherein the
environmental sensor or environmental sensor array is configured to
collect environmental data within and around a growth module and
transmit said data to a master control system capable of compiling
the environmental data and adjusting environmental conditions
within an environmentally-controlled growing chamber containing
said growth module.
[0144] In some embodiments of the at least one environmental sensor
or environmental sensor array, the environmental data collected and
transmitted comprises: nutrient concentrations; water pH; water
electrical conductivity (EC); O.sub.2 gas level concentrations;
CO.sub.2 gas level concentrations; O.sub.2 dissolved in water;
water oxidation reduction potential (ORP); water temperature; water
flow rate; air temperature; environmental ambient air speed; light
spectrum; light intensity; air pressure; air speed; humidity or any
combination thereof.
[0145] In some embodiments, the vertical column further comprises:
a guided vertical lift mechanism 500 capable of supporting, raising
and lowering the detachably attachable growth modules 104 along the
vertical length of the vertical column 1101.
[0146] In some embodiments, the lift mechanism is configured on the
exterior or the interior of the vertical column.
[0147] In some embodiments, the plurality of growth modules can be
fixed at variable heights to accommodate variable stages of plant
growth, with or without spaces between each vertical module.
[0148] In some embodiments, the variable heights are adjustable
throughout a growth cycle.
[0149] In some embodiments, the plurality of growth modules can be
fixed at a plurality of radial positions.
[0150] In some embodiments, the vertical column further comprises,
a plurality of loading point locations along the length of the
vertical column to facilitate loading and unloading the plurality
of growth modules.
[0151] In some embodiments of the vertical column or unsupported,
self-standing tower of any one of the previously described
configurations, the conveyance system provides a controlled, timed
movement of each vertical column or unsupported, self-standing
tower, in unison with the other vertical columns or unsupported,
self-standing towers attached to the conveyance system, to move a
plant contained within the plurality of growth modules from a
starting point location corresponding with an immature growth stage
to a finishing point corresponding with a harvestable plant along a
circuit within an environmentally-controlled growing chamber.
[0152] In some embodiments, the growth module further comprises a
growth medium 111 and a wicking medium (not shown) placed within
the enclosure; wherein the wicking medium is wrapped within the
growth medium and is configured to contain a root structure of the
plant, and wherein the growth medium is configured to support the
root structure of the plant 30 contained within the root system and
to capture and hold moisture and nutrients, and wherein the wicking
medium is configured to direct moisture and nutrients to the root
structure of a plant contained therein.
[0153] In some embodiments of the growth module, the wicking strip
and growth media are angularly oriented within the growth module so
as to promote the growth of the germinated plant through the
lateral growth opening, wherein the angular orientation is an angle
comprising between: about 0.0 degrees to about 45.0 degrees
vertical of parallel to horizontal; about 0.0 degrees to about 40.0
degrees vertical of parallel to horizontal; about 0.0 degrees to
about 35.0 degrees vertical of parallel to horizontal; about 0.0
degrees to about 34.0 degrees vertical of parallel to horizontal;
about 0.0 degrees to about 33.0 degrees vertical of parallel to
horizontal; about 0.0 degrees to about 32.0 degrees vertical of
parallel to horizontal; about 0.0 degrees to about 31.0 degrees
vertical of parallel to horizontal; or about 0.0 degrees to about
30.0 degrees vertical of parallel to horizontal.
[0154] In some embodiments, a top end of the unsupported,
self-standing tower is configured for attachment to a support
structure 103 capable of supporting a plurality other unsupported,
self-standing towers. In some embodiments, the unsupported,
self-standing tower is configured to rotate about its vertical
axis, as illustrated in FIG. 7B when attached to the support
structure for similarly exposing the attached enclosures to a light
source 108 and/or an airflow (not shown).
[0155] In some embodiments of the unsupported, self-standing tower,
the conveyance system provides a controlled, timed movement of each
unsupported, self-standing tower, in unison with the other
unsupported, self-standing towers attached to the conveyance
system, to move a plant contained within the plurality of
enclosures from a starting point location corresponding with an
immature growth stage to a finishing point corresponding with a
harvestable plant along a circuit within an
environmentally-controlled growing chamber.
[0156] Referring now to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the inventors have
considered the inclusion of a conveyance system 200 to facilitate
the movement of the vertical growth tower assembly to provide for a
regular cyclic rotation of crops from a germination stage to a
harvest stage. As shown in the figure, one potential configuration
of the conveyance system is attached to a vertical support
structure 103 as shown in FIG. 3, and connects to the vertical
growth assembly at the top. The conveyance system is configured to
move a plurality of tower or columnar assemblies about a circuit
within the environmentally controlled growing chamber.
[0157] The conveyance system can be a vertically driven 200(a), a
bottom driven conveyance system (not shown), or combination of
both. As shown in the non-limiting illustrations herein, the
top-mounted conveyance components 200(a) comprise rollers 202,
guiderails 203 mounted to the support structure 103, and vertical
column hangers 204 for mounting directly to the vertical column
102. The hangers 204 are configurable to allow the vertical columns
104 to hang freely, if unsupported at the bottom, or to spin, if
desired, as noted above.
[0158] In addition, or alternatively, the conveyance system is
configured to connect to the bottom of the vertical growth
assembly. The conveyance system on the bottom of the vertical
growth assembly may be the same or different in configuration with
the top conveyance system. For example, the bottom conveyance
system is optionally configured to be a conveyor belt system, such
as one used in airport luggage handling systems. This system is
specifically designed to allow for turning the vertical growth
assembly around the turns in a circuit, and optionally also
provides the ability to rotate the entire vertical growth assembly
about its central axis. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 8B, the
conveyance system is alternately equipable with a hanger system
capable of providing suspension of the vertical growth
assembly.
[0159] The bottom-mounted conveyance components (not shown) are
configurable as guide components to stabilize the hanging growth
columns, if desired, or simply to assist with guiding the hanging
growth columns around the conveyance circuit while maintaining
spacing between the columns. Alternatively the bottom-mounted
conveyance components are configurable to act as drive components
for the conveyance system similar to the system illustrated in FIG.
8B, reversing the roles described for the conveyance system
described previously. Further still, the conveyance system can be
configured to work as a complimentary combination system wherein
the top-mounted and bottom-mounted conveyance components work in
tandem to move the vertical growth columns around the conveyance
circuit.
[0160] In some embodiments, the unsupported, self-standing tower is
between: approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 60.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 50.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 40.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 30.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 25.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 20.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 19.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 18.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 17.0 feet tall;
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 16.0 feet tall; or
approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 15.0 feet tall.
[0161] Provided herein is a growth module for a vertical farming
system comprising an enclosure configured to securely hold at least
one plant, wherein the enclosure further comprises at least two of
the following: at least one vertical wall; a drain aperture in the
enclosure; at least a partial lower surface connected to the
enclosure; at least a partial upper surface connected to the
enclosure; at least one lateral growth opening in the enclosure
configured to permit growth of the at least one plant therethrough,
and to encourage lateral growth of the at least one plant away from
the growth module; a non-perpendicular, surface relative to the at
least one vertical wall; an attachment mechanism configured for
detachable attachment to a vertical column; an environmental
sensor; an environment sensor array; a growth medium; and a wicking
medium; wherein the enclosure is configured to provide a
containment shape comprising: a completely circular shape; a
partially circular shape; an elliptical shape; an irregular
geometric shape; a non-symmetric, irregular geometric shape; a
symmetric, multi-sided geometric shape; a triangular shape; a
rectangular shape; a square shape; a trapezoidal shape; a
pentagonal shape; a hexagonal shape; a heptagonal shape; an
octagonal shape; a geometric shape comprising non-flat sides; or
any combination thereof; wherein the growth module is configured to
support a plurality of growth modules stacked above and/or below
itself, wherein the drain aperture is configured to facilitate
vertical flow of fluids from the growth module to another growth
module stacked below itself, wherein said lateral growth opening is
configured to allow for an airflow to disrupt a boundary layer of
an under-canopy of the at least one plant growing away from the
growth module, wherein the environmental sensor or environmental
sensor array is configured to collect environmental data within and
around a growth module and transmit said data to a master control
system capable of compiling the environmental data and adjusting
environmental conditions within an environmentally-controlled
growing chamber containing said growth module, wherein the wicking
medium is wrapped within the growth medium and is configured to
contain a root structure of the plant, wherein the growth medium is
configured to support the root structure of the plant contained
within the root system and to capture and hold moisture and
nutrients, wherein the wicking medium is configured to direct
moisture and nutrients to the root structure of a plant contained
therein; and wherein the growth module has an adjustable height to
accommodate growth of the at least one plant.
[0162] As noted previously, the environmentally controlled vertical
farming system is specifically designed to take greenhouse-like
farming to a massive scale. As such, it is now obvious to one
reading this application that the scale and size of the vertical
growth structures, the towers and/or vertical growth column is only
limited by the size and height of the facility holding the
environmentally controlled vertical farming system and the capacity
of the stacked growth modules, vertical growth columns, support
structures and optional conveyance systems to support their
collective weights. In any given embodiment, the unsupported,
self-standing tower is conceivably between: approximately 10.0 feet
and approximately 100.0 feet tall, or more. In other more common
production environments embodiments, the unsupported, self-standing
tower is between: approximately 10.0 feet and approximately 60.0
feet tall, where facilities permit. In smaller scale embodiments
the unsupported, self-standing tower is between: approximately 10.0
feet and anywhere between approximately 15.0 feet to approximately
50.0 feet tall, as available facilities for these sizes are more
common.
[0163] Additionally it should be noted that although not
insignificant, the environmental control issues associated with
such an endeavor are themselves potentially more manageable from a
HVAC perspective. Balancing the height of a facility with the
square footage of a facility of this size presents a challenge in
that the movement of airflow, air temperature control and humidity
control can be very costly in large, open facilities.
[0164] In some embodiments, each enclosure of the growth modules
further comprises: an environmental sensor; an environment sensor
array; a growth medium; a wicking medium; a root cluster of a
germinated plant; or any combination thereof; wherein the
environmental sensor or environmental sensor array is configured to
collect environmental data within and around a growth module and
transmit said data to a master control system capable of compiling
the environmental data and adjusting environmental conditions
within an environmentally-controlled growing chamber containing
said growth module.
[0165] In some embodiments of the at least one environmental sensor
or environmental sensor array, the environmental data collected and
transmitted comprises: nutrient concentrations; water pH; water
electrical conductivity (EC); O.sub.2 gas level concentrations;
CO.sub.2 gas level concentrations; O.sub.2 dissolved in water;
water oxidation reduction potential (ORP); water temperature; water
flow rate; air temperature; environmental ambient air speed; light
spectrum; light intensity; air pressure; air speed; humidity or any
combination thereof.
[0166] As noted originally in this disclosure, the inventors have
incorporated the utilization of machine learning into this
environmentally controlled vertical farming system. Along with the
application of new control systems capable of machine learning, or
artificial intelligence (AI), the system's capabilities are further
enhanced with the ability to accurately track each of the plants in
a growth module in the system, utilizing tracking and monitor
devices such as visual monitoring devices (cameras) among other
systems, as well as overall ambient environment and other locally
critical data points within each growth module, during the course
of a growing cycle or multiple growing cycles, through the
assimilation of thousands or even millions of data points acquired
from strategically placed sensors. Armed with this data and the
ability to learn and adjust, the AI control system is further
capable of automatically adjusting year-round crop growth
conditions within the controlled environment; such as lighting,
fertilizers (nutrients), moisture, gas levels, temperature, air
flow, and ultimately, packaging, to produce higher yields at a
lower cost per square foot due to plants' vertical growth and
increased space efficiency, with reduced overall losses per planted
crop, better nutritional value, visual appeal and faster growth
cycles. Data collected and transmitted to the AI control system
comprises, but is not limited to nutrient concentrations; water pH;
water electrical conductivity (EC); O.sub.2 gas level
concentrations; CO.sub.2 gas level concentrations; O.sub.2
dissolved in water; water oxidation reduction potential (ORP);
water temperature; water flow rate; air temperature; environmental
ambient air speed; light spectrum; light intensity
(photosynthetically active radiation [PAR] or photosynthetic photon
flux density (PPFD)); air pressure; air speed; and humidity.
[0167] In some embodiments, a control system 600 as illustrated in
FIGS. 11 and 12, comprising: a sensor 615 configured for measuring
an environmental growing condition 610 in the
environmentally-controlled growing chamber over time to generate
environmental condition data 645; a device configured for measuring
a crop characteristic 625 of a plant grown in the hydroponic plant
growth module in the environmentally-controlled growing chamber to
generate crop growth data; and a processing device 635 comprising
at least one processor, a memory, an operating system configured to
perform executable instructions, and a computer program including
instructions executable by the processing device to create an
application comprising: a software module 665 configured for
receiving the environmental condition data and the crop growth data
from the environmental sensor 30, 615 and the measuring device 625;
a software module configured to apply an algorithm 655 to the
environmental growing condition data 610 and the crop growth data
to generate an improved environmental growing condition; and a
software module configured to generate and transmit instructions
671/672/674 for adjustment of the environmental growing condition
in or around the hydroponic plant growth module to a sub-system
675/685 of the environmentally-controlled growing chamber to
implement the improved environmental growing condition.
[0168] In some embodiments, the device is a crop characteristic
measuring device 625 or digital image capturing device positioned
and configured to capture images of the under-canopy when the
hydroponic plant growth module is mounted to the vertical growth
columns, and further wherein the crop characteristic is a leaf area
index (LAI).
[0169] In some embodiments, the plant growing system further
comprises a plurality of nutrient concentration sensors 615 adapted
to measure, in the aqueous crop nutrient solution, an aqueous
concentration of at least one nutrient selected from the group
consisting of: zinc; molybdenum; manganese; iron; copper; chlorine;
boron; sulfur; magnesium; calcium; potassium; phosphorus; and
nitrogen.
[0170] As described in subsequent FIGS. 10, 11 and 12, the control
system 600 includes one or more sensors 615 or measuring devices,
which measure one or more environmental growing conditions in the
environmentally-controlled growing chamber over time, to generate
environmental condition data. A sensor is, for example, an air
temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or a sensor for measuring
gaseous carbon dioxide content. The sensors or measuring devices
may also measure numerous other environmental conditions, including
air pressure, air flow, gaseous oxygen content, light quality
(e.g.: spectral properties of natural or artificial light), and/or
light quantity (e.g.: light intensity or length of light/dark
cycles). Alternatively or additionally, the sensors may measure one
or more properties of an aqueous nutrient solution that is
optionally provided to one or more crops growing in the vertical
farming system. These properties may include temperature, dissolved
oxygen and/or carbon dioxide content, nutrient content (e.g.:
content of one or more of zinc, molybdenum, manganese, iron,
copper, chlorine, boron, sulfur, magnesium, calcium, potassium,
phosphorus, and nitrogen), pH, oxygen reduction potential, or
electrical conductivity. In addition or alternatively, the sensor
may also measure a rate of movement or velocities of growing
plants, for example, as such plants are moved up or down a vertical
growth tower, and/or around a growing circuit in the vertical
farming system. In some systems, the sensor may include a sensor
array 30, suitable for measuring any combination of environmental
growing conditions, including any possible combination of the
conditions described in this paragraph. An exemplary sensor is
depicted at FIGS. 13A through 13D, adapted for placement in the
hydroponic plant growth module, spacer module or sensor module
104/105/110.
[0171] As depicted in FIGS. 13A through 13D, the sensor system
comprises a sensor module 110, a sensor circuit board 31, a sensor
mounting port 32, a sensor battery pack 33, a sensor nose mount 34,
a sensor nose 35, a sensor circuit mounting board 37 configurable
for mounting a sensor 615 (not shown) or a crop characteristic
measuring device 625 (not shown) and a digital imaging device/crop
characteristic device mounting port 38.
[0172] The sensor may measure the environmental growing
condition(s) continually, or at defined intervals during the
growing cycle of the crop plant grown in the vertical farming
system. The environmental growing condition data generated by the
sensor may, for example, provide a "fingerprint" corresponding to
one or more environmental conditions experienced by a growing crop
plant as it grows over time, for example, from planting until the
time of harvest. Alternatively, the data may be measured and
recorded during two or more discrete time points during the course
of the plant's growth cycle.
[0173] In some embodiments, the sub-system is selected from the
group consisting of: a lighting control sub-system (not shown); a
HVAC control sub-system (not shown); a nutrient supply control
sub-system (not shown); a conveyance control sub-system (not
shown); and a vertical lift mechanism control sub-system (not
shown).
[0174] In some embodiments, the computer program including
instructions executable by the processing device comprises
artificial intelligence programming capable of generating an
improved environmental growing condition 610 based at least in part
on continuously updated environmental and output characteristic
crop data 695.
[0175] In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the computer
control system or master control system 600, comprises: an input
variable server 620, a Fog Node 630, a SCADA interface 640 to
provide instantaneous automatic control 650, Cloud Servers 660,
Graphical Displays 670, the ability to accommodate and provide Real
Time Queries 680 and software systems providing Deep Learning,
Artificial Intelligence programming 690. When properly programed
and combined the master control system 600 monitors growth
conditions 610 of the enclosed production farming facility 1000,
1001, the growth chambers 100 and individual hydroponic plant
growth modules 104 in each vertical growth system 101, analyzing
the input data from the monitored growth conditions 610 provided by
the sensors 615 and crop characteristic measuring devices 625, sent
to the senor arrays 30 and subsequently transmitted to the master
control system 600 for processing. Once this data is collected and
analyzed, the master control system 600 is configured, through Deep
Learning, Artificial Intelligence programming 690, to adjust growth
conditions by sending out new instructions 671, 672, 674 to the
various environmental control systems 675, 685 and nutrient control
systems 300 in order to improve and continually optimize the output
characteristics 695 of the crop.
[0176] In some embodiments of the plant growing systems the output
characteristics 695 of the crop comprise nutrition levels, weight,
growth (manufacturing/production) costs, color or appearance,
flavor and/or texture.
[0177] Provided herein is a vertical column for a vertical farming
system configured for detachable attachment to at least one growth
module, the vertical column comprising a periphery having: a square
shape; a rectangular shape; a generally circular shape; a partially
circular shape; triangular shape; a trapezoidal shape; a pentagonal
shape; a hexagonal shape; a heptagonal shape; an octagonal shape;
any geometric shape comprising non-flat sides; or any combination
thereof; wherein the growth module comprises: a sleeve configured
to hold a plurality of sub-growth modules; a housing configured to
hold a plurality of sub-growth modules, each sub-growth module
comprising an enclosure configured to securely hold at least one
plant; a drain aperture in the growth module; and at least one
lateral growth opening in the enclosure and/or at least one
sub-growth module configured to permit growth of the at least one
plant therethrough, and to encourage lateral growth of the at least
one plant away from the growth module; wherein the growth module is
configured to stackably support a plurality of other growth modules
stacked above and/or below itself, wherein the drain aperture is
configured to facilitate vertical flow of fluids from the growth
module to another growth module stacked below itself, and wherein
said lateral growth opening is configured to allow for an airflow
to disrupt a boundary layer of an under-canopy of the at least one
plant growing away from the growth module. In some embodiments, the
vertical column comprises an at least partially hollow
interior.
[0178] In some embodiments, the vertical column further comprising
at least one attachment mechanism configured for detachable
attachment to the growth module. In some embodiments, the at least
one attachment mechanism comprises: a "T"-rail; a "V"-rail; a
separable ring; a protruding notch; an indented notch; a slot; a
groove; a through-hole and retaining pin; a magnet; or any
combination thereof.
[0179] In some embodiments, the at least one attachment mechanism
is on a longitudinal surface of said vertical column. In some
embodiments, the at least one attachment mechanism is on a
longitudinal surface of said vertical column. In some embodiments,
the at least one growth module is attached in a radial pattern
about the periphery of the vertical column.
[0180] In addition to the concept of vertical growth, unsupported,
free-standing towers, the inventors have developed vertical columns
comprising growth modules affixed thereto. The vertical column
comprises a vertical internal or external support column. The
support column can have a variety of peripheral shapes comprising a
square shape; a rectangular shape; a generally circular shape; a
partially circular shape; triangular shape; a trapezoidal shape; a
pentagonal shape; a hexagonal shape; a heptagonal shape; an
octagonal shape; any geometric shape comprising non-flat sides; or
any combination thereof, and is preferably at least partially
hollow on the interior, but not required to be. Modules slide over,
or onto the support column is some embodiments. In other
embodiments, they attach to an attachment mechanism such as a
"T"-rail; a "V"-rail; a separable ring; a protruding notch; an
indented notch; a slot; a groove; a through-hole and retaining pin;
a magnet; or any combination thereof.
[0181] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have
been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those
skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of
example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will
now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the
invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the
embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in
practicing the invention. It is intended that the following claims
define the scope of the invention and that methods and structures
within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered
thereby.
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